Cellular and molecular architecture of submucosal glands in wild-type and cystic fibrosis pigs

Abstract

Significance Submucosal glands secrete antimicrobial proteins and mucus into the airway lumen to protect the lung by killing inhaled and aspirated pathogens and clearing them from the lung. They can also contribute to several lung diseases, including the genetic disease cystic fibrosis. To better understand their structure and function, we isolated and studied submucosal glands from newborn pigs. Normal and cystic fibrosis submucosal glands were similar, suggesting that disease is due to loss of anion secretion rather than an intrinsic cell defect. By identifying submucosal gland cell types and the messenger RNA they express, the data aid understanding of submucosal gland function and provide a baseline for learning how environmental and genetic challenges contribute to lung disease.