Lecture 8.3: Drugs in airways structure and function. Flashcards
True or false? Asthma is more prevalent in females post puberty but males pre puberty.
True.
Describe the actomyosin crossbridge formation.
MLC-P allows this, produced by and produces MLC. Ca oscillations in terms of frequency dictates activation of MLCK, which permits MLC-P. On the other hand, rho kinase and PKC inhibit MLCP, this is regulated by PKA.
Describe the regulation of smooth muscle tone.
MLC-P regulates contraction of actomyosin crossbridge formation. Itself is produced by and produces MLC (cycle). Ca oscillations in terms of frequency dictates activation of MLCK, which permits MLC-P from MLC. On the other hand, rho kinase and PKC inhibit MLCP, this is regulated by PKA.
True or false? Cysteneiyl leukotrienes are more potent than histamine by 300 times in ASM contraction.
True. Remember though, it’s about potency, duration of release, duration of spasm.
True or false? ASM can produce cytokines and secrete ECM proteins.
True. In fact, it can produce growth factors, cytokines etc.
Describe relievers. Name an example, rate of onset, duration and other noteable features.
Short acting beta agonists (SABA) such as salbutamol and terbutaline have a rapid onset of 2-5min.
They are B2 selective, will last for 2-4 hours and therefore can be used as relievers.
Can cause tremors and hypokalaemia, but can also build up tolerance.
What is the function of B2 adrenoceptor?
Decrease amplitude and frequency of Ca oscillations, reducing the amount of MLCK activation.
Describe controllers. Name an example, rate of onset, duration and other noteable features.
Long acting B2 adrenoceptor agonsits (LABA). Includes salmeterol, formoterol. 12 hr duration. Gives background bronchodilation and perception of spasms are broadened. Combined with glucocorticoids to prevent cytokine gene transcription.
Describe relievers.
Better known as SAMA or LAMA, mostly targetted in COPD. They work to activate cholinergic activation.
