[In vitro models for the analysis of inflammatory processes in sarcoidosis]

Currently there are no animal models available for interstitial lung diseases with unknown origin, such as sarcoidosis. Inflammatory cells obtained from patients have several disadvantages for the in-vitro verification of pathogenetical concepts. Thus, in-vitro models are desirable. Employing cell lines we present models that are suited to study the angiotensin-converting enzyme release and the production of oxygen radicals by activated macrophages and their fusion to giant cells.