Response of pulmonary energy metabolism to phosgene

Rats were exposed to phosgene at a concentration of 1.0 ppm for 4 hours in a Rochester-type chamber. At intervals thereafter over a 4 day period, lungs were obtained for histological and biochemical assessments. Edema was estimated by histological examination and by measurement of lung wet and dry weights. In parallel studies, pulmonary mitochondrial respiratory activity was measured using Clark oxygen electrodes. The significant reduction in respiratory control index (State 3 respiration/State 4 respiration) found immediately following phosgene exposure coincided with the highest level of % lung water. There was a concomitant decrease of ATP concentration that persisted on the third day after exposure. Na-K-ATPase activity was reduced 1 day after exposure, thus a lowered ATP level preceded a reduction in Na-K-ATPase or sodium pump activity. The reduction in ATP level and Na-K-ATPase activity may play a major role in damage to lung tissue following exposure to phosgene.