Phospholipase A activity and prostaglandin release from alveolar macrophages exposed to asbestos

The effect of asbestos (canadian chrysotile B) was studied on macrophages harvested by guinea-pig bronchoalveolar lavage. In short term incubation (3 hrs), asbestos (1 mg) induced a highly significant increase in macrophage phospholipase A activity and prostaglandin synthesis. At lower concentrations of the fibers (10 micrograms and 100 micrograms), no significant change of macrophage activity was noted following our incubation period. The modification by asbestos of membrane integrity and functions is suggested.