The distribution and function of peroxidases in the respiratory tract

Heme-containing peroxidases have been demonstrated both biochemically and cytochemically in a variety of cells that either reside in the respiratory tract or circulate through it via the vasculature. The peroxidases in neutrophils and eosinophils have long been known to function in lung defense through their participation in an antimicrobial system involving hydrogen peroxide and chloride ions. Recent studies indicate that this system is also toxic to tumor cells and, as such, it may have a protective or mitigative effect on tumor formation in the lung. Eosinophil peroxidase may be involved in immediate hypersensitivity reactions in the lung because of its secretory effect on mast cells. Platelets contain peroxidases, but how they function is unknown. Whether peroxidase occurs in lymphocytes is controversial, but until more compelling evidence is presented they should be considered peroxidase-negative. A number of cells indigenous to the respiratory tract contain peroxidase activity, but there is considerable variability among species as to its presence and amount. When careful consideration is given to fixation and incubation conditions, peroxidase can be demonstrated cytochemically in the nuclear envelope and endoplasmic reticulum of some endothelial cells and type II cells of certain rodents, but its physiological role is speculative. The alveolar macrophages of most species possess little or no peroxidase activity apart from catalase which can function as a peroxidase under certain conditions. Mast cells in the respiratory tract contain peroxidase, but it is more easily demonstrated biochemically than cytochemically. The function of mast cell peroxidase is unknown, but two hypotheses worthy of investigation are its possible role in modulation of atopic allergic reactions and involvement in an antitumor defense mechanism similar to that of myeloperoxidase. Peroxidase is most abundant in the secretory cells of the tracheobronchial epithelium and glands where, in a number of species, it is synthesized and secreted as a component of mucus. Its possible contribution to lung defense is discussed in view of its morphologic similarity to the antibacterial peroxidase of milk and saliva. Because of the ease with which peroxidases can be demonstrated cytochemically, it is not surprising that morphologic information regarding their distribution in the respiratory tract has greatly exceeded insights into their functional significance. It is hoped that advancements in cell dissociation and culture, along with biochemical isolation and purification techniques, will lead to definitive conclusions concerning their physiologic roles in lung metabolism and defense.