Keratinocyte growth factor transiently alters pulmonary function in rats

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Cell Biology
• Respiratory Physiology

Background:

• Keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) is a known mitogen for pulmonary epithelial cells.
• KGF administration stimulates alveolar epithelial type II and bronchiolar epithelial cell proliferation.
• The functional consequences of KGF-induced lung cell proliferation on lung function remain largely unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of intratracheal KGF administration on pulmonary function in adult rats.
• To correlate histological changes with functional alterations in the lungs.

Main Methods:

• Adult rats received intratracheal recombinant human KGF (rHuKGF) or vehicle.
• Pulmonary function was assessed using body plethysmography before and after treatment (days 3 and 7).
• Lung histology was quantified to assess epithelial cell proliferation and hyperplasia.

Main Results:

• rHuKGF induced transient proliferation of alveolar and bronchiolar epithelial cells.
• Increased type II cell hyperplasia correlated with reduced tidal volume and increased breathing frequency.
• KGF treatment resulted in transitory restrictive lung disorder (decreased compliance, TLC, VC) and obstructive changes (reduced expiratory flow, increased FRC).

Conclusions:

• KGF-induced pulmonary epithelial cell proliferation is associated with moderate, transient changes in lung function.
• Both restrictive and obstructive lung function patterns were observed.
• These functional consequences should be considered when evaluating the therapeutic potential of KGF.