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. Author manuscript; available in PMC: 2020 Dec 1.
Published in final edited form as: Curr Stem Cell Rep. 2019 Nov 18;5(4):133–144. doi: 10.1007/s40778-019-00166-x

Table 1.

Functional epithelial cells of the lung

Location Cell Type Cell Markers Function
Conducting Airway Secretory (Club) Cells SCGB3A1, SCGB1A1

  • Secrete glycoproteins, uteroglobin, lysozymes, lipids

  • Detoxification
Multiciliated Cells FOXJ1, TUBB4

  • Mucociliary clearance
Basal Cells KRT5, TRP63

  • Anchor/insulate epithelium-stroma

  • Progenitor cell
Neuroendocrine Cells UCHL1, CALCA, ASCL1

  • Innervated/stimulated to produce CGRP, GRP, 5-HT, somatostatin, substance P, etc.

  • Oxygen sensing

  • Airway sensor for immune function

  • Bronchial tone
Tuft (Brush) Cells IL25, TSLP, DCLK1

  • Chemosensory cells

  • Innate immunity
Ionocytes FOXI1, ATP6V1C2

  • Possible fluid regulation to maintain airway surface physiology
Goblet Cells MUC5AC, TFF2, SPDEF

  • Mucin production

  • Innate immune defense
Alveolar Type 1 Cells HOPX, AQP5, PDPN, AGER

  • Gas exchange surface

  • Barrier function
Type 2 Cells SFTPC, SFTPB, SFTPA, SFTPD, ABCA3

  • Surfactant production & secretion

  • Ion transport

  • Immune function