[In vitro techniques for the study of muscle contractility]

Abstract

Functional studies of bronchial smooth muscle contractility, particularly in humans, are now well standardized regarding to tissues collection, tension setting and results expression. This type of model is usually considered as simple for analysis of pharmacological interactions between ligands and receptors. In fact, the multiplicity of cell types implicated in the bronchial response makes of isolated bronchi preparation a complex model. Examples are given with studies on endothelin or tachykinins. Inflammation and bronchial hyperresponsiveness models were proposed. Models of passive sensitization or pretreatment with cytokines are described. Functional studies of contractility are included in larger investigations including the analysis of the associated biochemical and electrical phenomenon.