Respiratory airway secretory cell

Airway secretory cells are a diverse group of specialized epithelial cells in the lung conducting airways that secrete mucus, antimicrobial peptides, ions, and regulatory factors to maintain airway hydration, trap and clear inhaled particulates and pathogens, and contribute to host defense[1][4][8]. Major subtypes include club cells, goblet (mucous) cells, and serous cells, as well as specialized secretory cells within submucosal glands[8][2]. Some secretory cells (notably club cells) serve as facultative progenitors/stem cells with the ability to regenerate other epithelial lineages after injury[1][4][7]. Secretory cell dysfunction and remodeling play central roles in respiratory diseases such as CF, asthma, and COPD, often characterized by aberrant mucus production and compromised clearance[4][6][8]. Secretory cells are the dominant source of CFTR expression in humans[3], which is therapeutically relevant for CFTR modulator drug action.

Other names

Secretory cellClub cellGoblet cellMucous cellSerous cellSubmucosal gland cell

CFTR modulators restore chloride ion transport and secretion in secretory cells. Mucolytics degrade/disrupt mucus glycoproteins, improving clearance. Corticosteroids suppress inflammatory signals that drive secretory cell hyperplasia and mucus overproduction. Anticholinergics reduce cholinergic stimulus for mucus secretion.