Enhanced lung inflammatory response in whole-body compared to nose-only cigarette smoke-exposed mice

Abstract Background Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by a progressive and abnormal inflammatory response in the lungs, mainly caused cigarette smoking. Animal models exposed to smoke (CS) are used mimic human COPD but use of different CS protocols makes it difficult compare immunological structural consequences using nose-only or whole-body exposure system. We hypothesized that when standardized protocol based on particle density CO (carbon monoxide) levels, system would generate more severe than system, due possible sensitization uptake CS-components through skin via grooming. Methods In this study focusing early COPD, mice were twice daily 5 days week either with for 14 weeks assess lung function, remodeling inflammation. Results At sacrifice, serum cotinine levels significantly higher (5.3 (2.3–6.9) ng/ml) compared ((2.0 (1.8–2.5) controls (1.0 (0.9–1.0) ng/ml). Both systems induced similar degree function impairment, while inflammation was whole body Slightly bronchial epithelial damage, mucus airspace enlargement observed More lymphocytes present bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) lymph nodes enhanced IgA IgG production found BAL lesser extent Conclusion The current CS-exposure resulted internal load which associated However, both impairment. Data also highlighted differences between two terms remodelling, potential CS. Researchers should be aware these designing their future studies an intervention COPD.