Human respiratory epithelial cell

Human respiratory epithelial cells line the respiratory tract from the nasal cavity to the alveoli, forming a barrier that protects against inhaled pathogens, toxins, and particles. The epithelium is made up of several specialized cell types, such as ciliated cells, goblet cells, basal cells, club cells, and type I/II alveolar cells, each contributing to functions like mucociliary clearance, secretion of antimicrobial peptides, immune signaling, repair after injury, and gas exchange[1][5][7][8]. These cells orchestrate both innate and adaptive immune responses by interacting with immune cells and sensing pathogens through surface receptors, and their dysfunction is implicated in various respiratory diseases including infections, chronic inflammation, and cancer[2][4][8]. They are not considered a canonical therapeutic target as a molecule or receptor, but are critically involved in the pathophysiology and regenerative processes of the respiratory system.

Other names

Airway epithelial cellRespiratory tract epithelial cellTracheobronchial epithelial cellPulmonary epithelial cell