Ceruloplasmin gene expression in silicotic rat lung
Pan, F.; Cai, G.; Liu, B.; Zou, C.
Wei Sheng Yan Jiu 27(4): 227-228; 232
1998
ISSN/ISBN: 1000-8020 PMID: 10682589 Document Number: 493264
In order to investigate the existence of extrahepatic ceruloplasmin (Cp) gene expression during silicotic process, molecular hybridization technique including dot blotting, in situ hybridization and Northern blotting was used. Twenty one days after silica dust intratracheal injection, Cp mRNA was detectable in lung, which was nearly double the content of that in the control (saline injection). In situ hybridization and Northern blotting revealed that the alveolar macrophages in silicosis could express Cp mRNA. It is concluded that lung is a prominent site for Cp gene expression during silicosis and Cp may play a previously unknown role in pulmonary injury or repair.