Autonomic Control of the Airways

Autonomic nerves regulate airway caliber, blood flow and secretions. They play an important role in the pathophysiology of airway diseases, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, modulating the inflammatory process and the airway response to inflammation. Cholinergic nerves play a major role in regulating airway caliber in humans, whereas adrenergic nerves are less important. Afferent nerves are important in mediating responses to inhaled irritants and other stimuli. Many neuropeptides are expressed in airway nerves and may play an important modulating role in disease. Several treatments for airway disease interact with autonomic control mechanisms.