Differential Expression of Aquaporins in Experimental Models of Acute Lung Injury

Abstract

Aim: The mammalian lung expresses at least three aquaporin (AQP) water channels whose precise role in lung injury or inflammation is still controversial.

Materials and methods: Three murine models of lung inflammation and corresponding controls were used to evaluate the expression of Aqp1, Aqp4, Aqp5 and Aqp9: lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced lung injury; HCl-induced lung injury; and ventilation-induced lung injury (VILI).

Results: All models yielded increased lung vascular permeability, and inflammatory cell infiltration in the broncho-alveolar lavage fluid; VILI additionally produced altered lung mechanics. Lung expression of Aqp4 decreased in the models that targeted primarily the alveolar epithelium, i.e. acid aspiration and mechanical ventilation, while Aqp5 expression decreased in the model that appeared to target both the capillary endothelium and alveolar epithelium, i.e. LPS.

Conclusion: Participation of aquaporins in the acute inflammatory process depends on localization and the type of lung injury.

Keywords: ARDS; Aquaporins; inflammation.