An update in club cell biology and its potential relevance to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol. 2023 May 1;324(5):L652-L665. doi: 10.1152/ajplung.00192.2022. Epub 2023 Mar 21.

Abstract

Club cells are found in human small airways where they play an important role in immune defense, xenobiotic metabolism, and repair after injury. Over the past few years, data from single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) studies has generated new insights into club cell heterogeneity and function. In this review, we integrate findings from scRNA-seq experiments with earlier in vitro, in vivo, and microscopy studies and highlight the many ways club cells contribute to airway homeostasis. We then discuss evidence for loss of club cells or club cell products in the airways of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and discuss potential mechanisms through which this might occur.

Keywords: COPD; club cells; scRNA-seq; secretory cells.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Bronchioles / metabolism
  • Epithelial Cells / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive* / metabolism