The integrin receptor beta7 subunit mediates airway remodeling and hyperresponsiveness in allergen exposed mice

Abstract

Abstract Background Fibroblast differentiation to a myofibroblast phenotype is a feature of airway remodeling in asthma. Lung fibroblasts express the integrin receptor α4β7 and fibronectin induces myofibroblast differentiation via this receptor. Objectives To investigate the role of the β7 integrin receptor subunit and α4β7 integrin complex in airway remodeling and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) in a murine model of chronic allergen exposure. Methods C57BL/6 wild type (WT) and β7 integrin null mice (β7 -/-) were sensitized (days 1,10) and challenged with ovalbumin (OVA) three times a week for one or 4 weeks. Similar experiments were performed with WT mice in the presence or absence of α4β7 blocking antibodies. Bronchoalveolar (BAL) cell counts, AHR, histological evaluation, soluble collagen content, Transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) and Interleukin-13 (IL13) were measured. Phenotype of fibroblasts cultured from WT and β7 -/- saline (SAL) and OVA treated mice was evaluated. Results Eosinophil numbers were similar in WT vs β7-/- mice. Prolonged OVA exposure in β7-/- mice was associated with reduced AHR, lung collagen content, peribronchial smooth muscle, lung tissue TGFβ and IL13 expression as compared to WT. Similar findings were observed in WT mice treated with α4β7 blocking antibodies. Fibroblast migration was enhanced in response to OVA in WT but not β7 -/- fibroblasts. α-SMA and fibronectin expression were reduced in β7-/- fibroblasts relative to WT. Conclusions The β7 integrin subunit and the α4β7 integrin complex modulate AHR and airway remodeling in a murine model of allergen exposure. This effect is, at least in part, explained by inhibition of fibroblast activation and is independent of eosinophilic inflammation.