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Research Article

Role of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 signaling pathway in the process of thrombin-promoting airway remodeling in ovalbumin-allergic rats

, , , , , , , , , , , , , & show all
Pages 26-34 | Received 21 May 2014, Accepted 19 Nov 2014, Published online: 18 Dec 2014
 

Abstract

Context: Although it is recognized that thrombin plays a key role in airway remodeling during chronic asthma. In a previous study, we have proved that thrombin promotes airway remodeling via PAR-1 in OVA-allergic rats, but little is known about intracellular signaling pathway involved in the event.

Objective: In this study, we intend to explore the impact of pERK1/2 signaling pathway on the process of thrombin-induced airway remodeling in OVA-allergic rats.

Materials and methods: A rat model of chronic asthma was set up by systemic sensitization and repeated challenge to OVA. The doses of thrombin, recombinant hirudin, PAR-1 inhibitor ER-112780-06, and pERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059 varied for different groups. The expression of pERK1/2 was analyzed by western blot and RT-PCR. Secretion of TGF-β1 and IL-6 was detected by ELISA.

Results: The expression of pERK1/2 was higher in the airway of asthmatic rats than those of normal rats, and was significantly increased by thrombin treatment but decreased by thrombin-inhibitor treatment. Airway remodeling was enhanced by thrombin but weakened by pERK1/2 inhibitor. Expression of growth factors and IL-6 in asthmatic rats was significantly increased by thrombin treatment and decreased by thrombin-inhibitor treatment and pERK1/2 inhibitor treatment.

Conclusion: These results suggest that ERK1/2 signaling pathway may play an important role in the process of thrombin-promoting airway remodeling in OVA-allergic rats, and pERK1/2 inhibitor effectively inhibits the process.

Declaration of interest

The authors report that they are no declarations of interest.

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