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Sputum sol phase proteins and elastase activity in patients with clinically stable bronchiectasis
P Lloberes1, E Montserrat, J M Montserrat
1Pneumology Service, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain.
Thorax
|February 1, 1992
Summary
Inflammatory and proteolytic activity, particularly neutrophil elastase, is heightened in purulent bronchiectasis sputum. Alpha 2 macroglobulin may play a key role in balancing this proteolysis within bronchial secretions.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Bronchiectasis pathogenesis involves inflammation and proteolysis in sputum.
- This study further investigates the roles of inflammation and proteolysis in bronchiectasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the role of inflammation and proteolysis in bronchiectasis.
- To investigate the relationship between sputum purulence and inflammatory markers.
Main Methods:
- Measured neutrophil elastase activity in 26 bronchiectasis patients.
- Quantified sputum inhibitors (alpha 1 antiproteinase, alpha 2 macroglobulin) and protein ratios (albumin, C-reactive protein).
Main Results:
- Free elastase activity detected in 15 samples.
- Higher proteolytic and inflammatory activity correlated with purulent sputum.
- C-reactive protein was more sensitive than albumin in detecting inflammation in elastase-positive samples.
Conclusions:
- Alpha 2 macroglobulin concentrations were higher in purulent and elastase-positive sputum.
- Suggests a role for alpha 2 macroglobulin in the proteolysis-antiproteolysis balance in bronchial secretions.