Why mouse airway submucosal gland serous cells do not secrete fluid in response to cAMP stimulation

Abstract

Background: Mouse submucosal glands exhibit lower rates of cAMP-activated CFTR-dependent fluid secretion than human glands. Results: Mouse serous cells exhibit CFTR chloride permeability but lack cAMP-activated calcium signals required for counterion permeability and secretion. Conclusion: Lack of cAMP-activated calcium signaling accounts for weak mouse serous cell fluid secretion. Significance: This result explains a fundamental difference between human and mouse airway glands. © 2012 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.