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Comparison of functional biochemical, and morphometric alterations in the lungs of four rat strains and hamsters following repeated intratracheal instillation of crocidolite asbestos
Citation:
Padilla-Carlin, D. AND D. L. COSTA. Comparison of functional biochemical, and morphometric alterations in the lungs of four rat strains and hamsters following repeated intratracheal instillation of crocidolite asbestos. EXPERIMENTAL LUNG RESEARCH. Taylor & Francis, Inc., Philadelphia, PA, 37(4):212-26, (2011).
Impact/Purpose:
Research describes effects of crocidolite on biochemical and physiological responses in 4 rat strains and hamsters, and shows that divergent lung responses should be considered when selecting laboratory animal models for studies related to asbestos exposure
Description:
Four rat strains and hamsters were exposed to 0.7mg crocidolite asbestos/g lung once/wk for 3weeks by intratracheal instillation (IT). Pulmonary function, biochemistry, and morphometry were evaluated at 3 and 6-months after IT. Each rat strain, but not the hamster, exhibited elevated lung volumes. Quasistatic compliance in rats and hamsters was reduced 15-40% and 25-50%, respectively. Diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide was elevated in the rats, but in hamsters, it was reduced at both time points. Hydroxyproline was increased in the rat strains but not in hamsters. Lung protein/dry weight was not altered in most of the rat strains and in hamsters at both time points. The linear mean intercept value was increased in F344 rats (3-and 6-months) and LE rats (6-months), while in hamsters only at 6-months. Surface area was unchanged in both species. Specific density for parenchymal tissue was reduced for F344 rats at both time points, but alveolar density values did not change overall relative to species and time. Functional and morphological changes in the hamster appeared more consistent with the human disease. Divergent lung responses in different species and strains should be considered when selecting laboratory animal models for studies related to asbestos exposure.
