Name the cell types of the olfactory epithelium and state their respective functions.
Bipolar olfactory receptor cell – olfaction
Supporting (sustentacular cells) – mechanical and metabolic support to receptor cells
Basal cells – stem cells from which receptor and supporting cells regenerate
Brush cells – general sensory cells
What is the function of Bowman’s glands
They secrete serous fluids that act as a solvent for odoriferous substances. Thus constant flow from the glands washes away old scents and allows new scents to be detected as they arise.
What makes up the blood air barrier
Surfactant
Type I pneumocyte
Fused basement membrane of Type I pneumocyte and endothelial cell
Endothelial cell
Blood air barrier
What is a bronchopulmonary/ mucociliary escalator It is the coordinated sweeping of the mucus coat by cilia towards the pharynx
Describe the Proximal – distal changes in the respiratory tract
Goblet cells: Decrease in number up to the terminal bronchioles
Ciliated cells: Reduce in number up to respiratory bronchioles. Are absent in alveoli
Glands: Decrease in number up to respiratory bronchioles. Are absent in alveoli
Hyaline cartilage: C-shaped rings in the extrapulmonary region. Disc shaped in the intrapulmonary region. Decrease in number proximo-distally. Absent in bronchiloes and alveoli
Smooth muscles: Increase in number up to bronchioles. Absent in alveoli
What is the function of Clara cells
Secrete surface active agent that prevents luminal adhesion during airway collapse
Produce Clara secretory protein (CC16), which is used as a measurable pulmonary marker in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and serum
Bronchial levels of CC16 decrease in lung injury while serum levels increase
Name the cell types of the respiratory mucosa and their respective functions
Clara cells: produce Clara cell secretory protein (CC16) and a surface active agent that prevents luminal adhesion should the airway collapse during expiration