Quantity of anti-leucoprotease relative to α1-proteinase inhibitor in peripheral airspaces of the human lung

Abstract
Peripheral airspaces were selectively lavaged using balloon-tipped catheters of 2 mm diameter. Molar anti-leucoprotease/.alpha.1-proteinase inhibitor ratios as determined in these lkavage fluids by enzyme immunoassays ranged from 0.02 to 0.14 (mean 0.08). These data indicate that peripheral airspaces contain minor amounts of anti-leucoprotease relative to .alpha.1-proteinase inhibitor. This observation does not necessarily mean that anti-leucoprotease is of minor importance in protecting the lung interstitium.