Endobronchial perfluorocarbon administration decreases lung injury in an experimental model of ischemia and reperfusion

ObjectiveTo verify the effects of liquid endobronchial perfluorocarbon (PFC) administered before reperfusion in an animal model of lung ischemia-reperfusion injury.MethodsEighteen Wistar rats were subjected to an experimental model of selective left pulmonary artery clamping for 45 min followed by reperfusion for 2 h. The animals were divided into three groups: the ischemia-reperfusion (IR) group, the sham group, and the PFC group. We recorded the hemodynamic parameters, blood gas analysis, and histology. A Western blot assay was used to measure the inducible nitric oxide synthase, caspase 3, and nuclear factor қB (subunit p65) activities. Lipid peroxidation was assessed by the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances assay and the activity of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase.ResultsNo significant differences were observed in lipid peroxidation among the groups. The superoxide dismutase activity was increased (P < 0.05) in the PFC-treated group. The expressions of nuclear factor қB, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and caspase 3 were significantly lower in the PFC group than in the IR group (P < 0.05). The histologic analysis showed a reduction in lung injuries in the PFC group compared with the sham and IR groups.ConclusionThe use of endobronchial PFC reduces the inflammatory response, preserves the alveolar structure, and protects the lungs against the hazardous effects of ischemia-reperfusion injuries.