Tracheobronchial mucus secretion in vivo and in vitro by epithelial tissues from cystic fibrosis and control subjects.

This paper reviews some of our efforts to compare mucous glycoproteins from 
the tracheobronchial tract of cystic fibrosis patients with those of control 
subjects. We have used secretions from several sources, including sputum, bronchial 
washings obtained with the aid of the fiberoptic bronchoscope, tracheobronchial aspirates 
through endotracheal or tracheostomy tubes and, finally, secretions discharged by human 
tracheobronchial epithelial explants. Solubilization and fractionation of secretions; properties of the 
major mucous glycoprotein components; composition of major components from non-infected, bronchitic 
and CF lungs; and organ culture of human tracheobronchial epithelium are 
discussed. 