Open AccessConference Science Medal Lecture: Something in the Air: Endotoxins and Glucans as Environmental Troublemakers *
Author(s) -
YOUNG R. S.,
JONES A. M.,
NICHOLLS P. J.
Publication year - 1998
Publication title -
journal of pharmacy and pharmacology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.745
H-Index - 118
eISSN - 2042-7158
pISSN - 0022-3573
DOI - 10.1111/j.2042-7158.1998.tb03299.x
Subject(s) - lipopolysaccharide , disease , function (biology) , inflammation , immunology , environmental health , medicine , intensive care medicine , biology , microbiology and biotechnology , pathology
This review provides a clear explanation of the current status of two common airborne contaminants, lipopolysaccharide and (1.3)‐β‐D‐glucan, in the induction of indoor air‐related disease. A full description of the origin of these two products is given together with information of their structure and function. Details of the biochemical mechanisms by which they interact with human cells and the physiological consequences of these interactions are outlined. Both compounds play a key role in the induction of airway inflammation and this paper highlights the environmental importance in the work place and home of these inhaled agents in terms of respiratory disease.