The present invention relates generally to a method of inducing, stimulating or otherwise facilitating bronchoprotection in humans and animals by modulating bronchial constriction and/or inflammation. The present invention is predicated in part on the identification of receptors in airway epithelium which mediate inhibition of bronchoconstriction and/or inflammation following their activation. More particularly, the present invention identifies that activation of protease activated receptors (PARs) results in relaxation of airway epithelium. Activation of airway epithelium PARs inhibits bronchoconstriction and/or inflammation and thereby mediates bronchoprotection of the airways. The present invention further provides a method for the prophylaxis and treatment of disease conditions in airways such as asthma and bronchitis and further provides methods for the diagnosis and screening of agents useful in the prophylaxis and treatment of airway disease conditions.