What happens to cilia during mucosal inflammation in asthmatics?

During mucosal inflammation in asthmatics, the cilia become damaged. This damage is a result of the chronic inflammatory processes that occur in the airways of individuals with asthma. Inflammation can lead to structural changes in the airway lining, including the cilia, which are tiny hair-like projections that line the respiratory tract and play a crucial role in clearing mucus and debris from the airways.

When cilia are damaged, their ability to effectively move mucus out of the airways is compromised. This dysfunction contributes to the buildup of mucus and can exacerbate symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Understanding the impact of inflammation on cilia is critical for managing asthma and developing effective treatment strategies to improve airway function and mucus clearance.