Experimental research of acute lung injury due to sulfur mustard in rat

Abstract

Objective To establish animal model of acute lung injury induced by sulfur mustard (SM) in rats,in order to observe the histomorphologic change of lung,protein content and cell numbers in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF),and serum inflammatory factors reaction in different time phases.Methods 72 male rats were selected,then randomly divided into three groups:SM group (n =32),propylene glycol group (n =32),and control group (n =8).The rats in SM group were injected intratracheally diluted SM (2 mg/kg,0.1 ml),the rats in propylene glycol group were injected intratracheally propylene glycol 0.1 ml,and status quo was kept with the control group.BALF,serum,and lung tissue were obtained in 6h,24h,48h,and 72h respectively.HE and immunohistochemistry staining were used to observe histomorphologic change and inflammatory cell infiltration.The alveolar interval area,content of inflammatory factor in serum,total albumen and cell number in BALF were measured.Results SM group:①The epithelium cells of the damaged bronchioles were shed,and the focal ulcer formed.②Dilatating and congestive vessels were observed in pulmonary interstitial,and lymphocyte is the main element of the inflammatory infiltration.③Inflammatory exudate and inflammatory cells appeared in alveolar cavity,which the albumen content and cell number in BALF peaked in 48 hours.④The content of tumor necrosis factor-α,interleukin-1β,and interleukin-6 in serum peaked in 24 hours.⑤ The alveolar interval area widened obviously,and the damage degree was time dependent.Results in the propylene glycol group was the same with those in the control group.Conclusions SM (2 mg/kg) can induce histomorphologic change similar to acute respiratory distress syndrome.Lymphocyte is the main element of inflammatory infiltration.BALF and serum results suggest there was temporary inflammation,and the damage degree is time dependent. Key words: Sulfur mustard; Rat; Lung injury; Histomorphology; Inflammatory cell infitration; Inflammatory factor reaction