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Effect of stress on the production of O(2)(-) in alveolar macrophages

C M De Castro1, R Manhães de Castro, A Fernandes de Medeiros

  • 1Laboratório de Imunopatologia Keizo Asami, UFPE, Setor de Microbiologia Clínica, Cidade Universitaria, 50670-901, PE, Recife, Brazil. ccastro@nutricao.ufpe.br

Journal of Neuroimmunology
|July 20, 2000
PubMed

Insights

Stress in male rats reduces superoxide production in alveolar macrophages, potentially impairing their microbicidal activity. This occurs alongside increased corticosterone levels, suggesting a link between stress hormones and immune cell function.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Endocrinology
  • Cellular Biology

Background:

  • Alveolar macrophages (AM) are crucial immune cells in the lungs.
  • Superoxide production (SP) by AM is vital for microbicidal activity.
  • Stress is known to affect immune responses and hormone levels.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effect of stress on superoxide production in alveolar macrophages of male rats.
  • To examine the relationship between stress, corticosterone levels, and AM superoxide production.

Main Methods:

  • Evaluation of superoxide production in alveolar macrophages from stressed and control male rats.
  • Measurement of plasma corticosterone levels.
  • In vitro exposure of AM to a synthetic glucocorticoid.

Main Results:

  • Stressed rats exhibited significantly lower superoxide production in AM compared to control rats across all time intervals.
  • In vitro exposure of AM to a synthetic glucocorticoid inhibited superoxide production.
  • Stress led to increased plasma corticosterone levels and decreased AM superoxide production.

Conclusions:

  • Stress in male rats is associated with elevated plasma corticosterone levels.
  • Stress significantly reduces superoxide production in alveolar macrophages.
  • The observed reduction in superoxide production may compromise the microbicidal capacity of alveolar macrophages, potentially impacting lung immunity.

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