Blocking Bcl-2 resolves IL-13–mediated mucous cell hyperplasia in a Bik-dependent manner

Bcl-2 protects cells against a wide range of apoptotic stimuli by preventing mitochondrial permeabilization caused by proapoptotic Bcl-2 family members.1 Although Bcl-2 levels are regulated by various cytokines,2 inflammatory mediators that affect Bcl-2 expression in nonhematopoietic primary cells have been studied poorly. Bcl-2 expression is upregulated in airway mucous cells of patients with chronic bronchitis, asthmatic bronchitis, and cystic fibrosis and in respective animal models to sustain hyperplastic mucous cells.

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