A cockroach derived serine protease allergen activates airway epithelial cells via PAR2 receptors

Both endogenous and exogenous proteases have been implicated in allergic airway diseases. Though recent studies have demonstrated the role of airway epithelial cells in pathophysiology of allergic diseases, the mechanisms of epithelial activation remain largely unknown.  Recently published study (Kale and Arora, 2014) focused on elucidating the role of serine protease activity of Per a 10 on airway epithelial activation and to gain an insight into possible mechanism. We found that airway epithelial activation by Per a 10 is dependent on its serine protease activity. Further we showed that this activation is PAR2 dependent and leads to Ca 2+ mobilisation. This Research Highlight discusses the findings of our recent study and active research endeavors.