Health & Environmental Research Online (HERO)


Print Feedback Export to File
1696270 
Journal Article 
Ciliary function and the role of cilia in clearance 
Stannard, W; O'Callaghan, C 
2006 
Yes 
Journal of Aerosol Medicine
ISSN: 0894-2684
EISSN: 1557-9026 
19 
1 
110-115 
16551222 
WOS:000236306400014 
The lungs and the nasal passages are continually exposed to respiratory pathogens, toxins, and particulate matter, and have evolved a very effective defense system to protect themselves. Mucociliary clearance is an essential part of this defence and relies on appropriate interactions between the ciliated epithelium, the height of the periciliary fluid, and mucus. Mucus acts as a physical barrier, trapping inhaled particles and pathogens, whilst cilia move both the mucus layer and fluid in the underlying periciliary layer. These defenses may be disrupted by viral and bacterial infections, by inhaled toxins, and by inherited diseases such as primary ciliary dyskinesia and cystic fibrosis. 
primary ciliary dyskinesia; cilia; bronchiectasis