Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 30, 2026

Isolation of Mouse Respiratory Epithelial Cells and Exposure to Experimental Cigarette Smoke at Air Liquid Interface
Published on: February 21, 2011
Smoke inhalation is a multilevel insult to the pulmonary system
1North Carolina Jaycaa Burn Center, University of North Carolina Hospitals, Chapel Hill 27514, USA.
Abstract:
Inhalation injury represents an ongoing threat to patients with thermal injury. The magnitude of the disease severity is related to the multilevel insult to the pulmonary system. Asphyxiants present in inhaled smoke can compromise oxygen delivery, resulting in cell death. Also, early changes in the microcirculation of the lung parenchyma, related to polymorphonuclear cell activation and oxygen free radical production, are responsible for early pulmonary edema. Perhaps the most significant pathologic change caused by smoke inhalation is loss of the respiratory epithelium and the formation of tracheobronchial casts. The recent application of high-frequency flow interruption ventilation and intrapulmonary percussive ventilation has made the largest impact on improved survival in patients suffering from smoke inhalation.
Related Concept Videos
The Respiratory System
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Inflammation
Inhalation Anthrax
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease I: Introduction
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease II: Emphysema
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features

