Lung epithelial cell-released nitric oxide protects against PMN-mediated cell injury

Nitric oxide production was induced in rat L2 cells to determine its effects on polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN)-induced cell injury. Rat lung epithelium exhibited resistance against PMN-mediated cytotoxicity after the administration mixtures with tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interferon gamma and lipopolysaccharides. Increased NO levels were also detected in rat lung models indicating the inhibitory action of NO on PMN function and on the PMN cytotoxic secretions.