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Elastase release from human alveolar macrophages: comparison between smokers and nonsmokers
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|October 21, 1977
Summary
Alveolar macrophages from smokers release elastase, an enzyme linked to pulmonary emphysema. This finding suggests these cells play a key role in the development of emphysema in smokers.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Pulmonary emphysema is a serious lung disease.
- Alveolar macrophages are immune cells in the lungs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of alveolar macrophages in emphysema pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Collected alveolar macrophages from smokers and non-smokers.
- Cultured cells in serum-free medium.
- Measured elastase release.
Main Results:
- Alveolar macrophages from smokers released elastase.
- Alveolar macrophages from non-smokers did not release elastase.
Conclusions:
- Smoker-derived alveolar macrophages release elastase.
- This release suggests a mechanism for emphysema development in smokers.