ROLE OF CYTOKINES IN LUNG-DISEASES

The lung is a complex organ composed of multiple cell types. The normal lung has a characteristic profile of cytokines which include constitutive levels of secreted TGF-beta but undetectable levels of other cytokines such as TNF-alpha. Involvement of pro-inflammatory, anti-inflammatory, mitogenic, and transforming cytokines have all been demonstrated in various lung disorders. In this brief review several contrasting examples of cytokines in disease are presented. Several acute syndromes with devastating consequences on pulmonary function (Sepsis Syndrome, Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome Multiple Organ Failure Syndrome) thought to be mediated by an overwhelming release of TNF-alpha are under intense investigation. Other disorders touched on include the inflammatory disorders hypersensitivity pneumonitis and asthma, and the pulmonary injury response to high levels of oxygen. The roles of PDGF and TGF-beta in the genesis of Spontaneous Pulmonary Fibrosis are discussed in some detail.