Fig. 1

Roles of Kv1.3-channels in the activation pathway of cellular immunity in the respiratory tract and the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In the initiation of mucosal immunity in the airways, bronchial or alveolar macrophages, which phagocytose smoke particles, humorally activate T-lymphocytes within the lamina propria of the respiratory mucosa. Kv1.3-channels expressed on T-lymphocytes stimulate their IL-2 production and cellular proliferation through the activation of calcineurin/NFAT signaling pathway. The overexpression of the channels over-stimulates such lymphocyte activity, which triggers the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Potential Kv1.3-channel inhibitors, such as CCBs, macrolides, statins and NSAIDs may be useful in the treatment of COPD. NFAT nuclear factor of activated T cells, CCB calcium channel blocker, NSAID nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug