lung connective tissue development

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The biological process whose specific outcome is the progression of lung connective tissue from an initial condition to its mature state. This process begins with the formation of lung connective tissue and ends with the mature structure. The lung connective tissue is a material made up of fibers forming a framework and support structure for the lungs. [GOC:dph, GOC:mtg_lung]

Lung connective tissue development is a complex and intricate process that involves the coordinated interplay of various cell types and signaling pathways. It begins early in gestation with the formation of the lung bud, a small outgrowth from the foregut endoderm. This bud will eventually give rise to the entire respiratory system.

The first step in lung connective tissue development is the formation of the mesenchyme, a loose, undifferentiated tissue that surrounds the developing lung bud. This mesenchyme is derived from the lateral plate mesoderm and contains a variety of cells, including fibroblasts, chondroblasts, and myoblasts. These cells will eventually differentiate into the various cell types that make up the lung connective tissue.

As the lung bud grows and branches, the mesenchyme surrounding it also proliferates and differentiates. Fibroblasts, the primary cell type of the lung connective tissue, produce collagen, elastin, and other extracellular matrix components. These components provide structural support for the developing lung and allow it to expand and contract during breathing.

Chondroblasts differentiate into chondrocytes, which form the cartilage that supports the airways. Myoblasts differentiate into smooth muscle cells, which surround the airways and help regulate airflow.

The development of the lung connective tissue is tightly regulated by a variety of signaling pathways. These pathways are activated by factors such as growth factors, cytokines, and hormones. One important signaling pathway is the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) pathway. FGFs play a role in the proliferation, differentiation, and migration of mesenchymal cells.

Another important signaling pathway is the Wnt pathway. Wnt proteins are involved in cell fate determination, proliferation, and differentiation. They play a role in the development of both the mesenchyme and the epithelium of the lung.

The development of lung connective tissue is essential for proper lung function. The extracellular matrix provides structural support and allows the lung to expand and contract during breathing. The cartilage supports the airways, and the smooth muscle helps regulate airflow. Disruptions in the development of lung connective tissue can lead to a variety of respiratory diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and interstitial lung diseases.

In addition to the primary cell types described above, lung connective tissue also contains a variety of other cells, including immune cells, vascular cells, and nerves. These cells contribute to the overall function of the lung and its ability to respond to injury and infection.

The development of lung connective tissue is a continuous process that extends throughout life. The lung connective tissue is constantly being remodeled in response to changes in the environment, such as exposure to pollutants or pathogens. This remodeling process helps to maintain the integrity of the lung and its ability to function properly.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (1)