Enzymatic modulation of bronchoconstriction, gland secretion, plasma extravasation and cough.

This review describes novel aspects of enzymes in the pertinent tissues of the airway and those associated with inflammatory cells. These include neutral endopeptidase, histamine N-methyltransferase, mast cell and neutrophil enzymes which have a potentially important role in the modulation of several airway functions such as bronchoconstriction, gland secretion, plasma extravasation and cough. Thus, regulation of enzyme activities in the airways may have new therapeutic implications in inflammatory diseases of airways.