MUSCARINIC RECEPTORS IN HUMAN AIRWAYS

Muscarinic receptors play a double role in airway disorders, mediating an increase in mucus secretion, as well as construction of smooth muscle. Cholinergic activity of the lung is more pronounced in large than in peripheral airways,. in the nose parasympathetic stimulation leads to hypersecretion and vasodilation. This article reviews the differences in muscarinic subreceptors in the upper and lower airways and discusses the effectiveness of anticholinergic agents in blocking parasympathetic stimulation at these sites.