bronchus development

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The biological process whose specific outcome is the progression of a bronchus from an initial condition to its mature state. This process begins with the formation of the bronchus and ends with the mature structure. The bronchus is the portion of the airway that connects to the lungs. [GOC:dph]

Bronchus development is a complex and precisely orchestrated process that involves the coordinated interplay of various signaling pathways, transcription factors, and cellular interactions. It begins during embryonic development, with the formation of the respiratory bud from the foregut endoderm. This bud then undergoes a series of branching events, giving rise to the trachea, bronchi, and ultimately, the alveoli.

The branching morphogenesis of the bronchus is driven by a combination of epithelial-mesenchymal interactions. The endoderm, which gives rise to the epithelial lining of the airways, secretes signaling molecules that stimulate the surrounding mesenchyme to proliferate and differentiate. In turn, the mesenchyme secretes factors that regulate epithelial cell growth, differentiation, and branching.

One key signaling pathway involved in bronchus development is the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) pathway. FGFs are secreted from the mesenchyme and bind to receptors on the epithelial cells, promoting epithelial cell proliferation and branching. Other important signaling pathways include the Wnt, Shh, and BMP pathways, which regulate various aspects of bronchus development, including epithelial-mesenchymal interactions, cell fate specification, and branching pattern.

As the bronchus develops, the epithelial cells undergo a series of differentiation events, giving rise to different cell types that form the mature airways. These include ciliated cells, goblet cells, and basal cells. Ciliated cells, which line the airway epithelium, help to clear mucus and debris from the airways. Goblet cells secrete mucus, which traps inhaled particles and pathogens. Basal cells are progenitor cells that can give rise to other epithelial cell types.

The development of the bronchus is also influenced by the surrounding environment. For example, exposure to cigarette smoke can disrupt normal bronchus development and increase the risk of respiratory diseases.

Overall, bronchus development is a highly complex and regulated process that is essential for normal lung function. It involves the coordinated interplay of multiple signaling pathways, transcription factors, and cellular interactions.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (3)