Role of Leukocytes in Lung Defenses

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Abstract
Alveolar macrophages are the primary cells that protect the lung against inhaled or aspirated microbes. They kill microorganisms intracellularly by both oxidative and non-oxidative mechanisms. Alveolar macrophages secrete antimicrobial factors, including lysozyme, peptides, and transferrin, which are found in the bronchoalveolar lining fluid and may kill microbes extracellularly. Macrophage secretory products help initiate a controlled inflammatory response and a limited influx of granulocytes, which appears to be important for complete elimination of many bacterial pathogens from the lung.

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