Effects of lysine aspirin on lung AQP5 expression and lymphocyte apoptosis in paraquat-poisoned rats

Objective: This study explored the effects of lysine aspirin on lung aquaporin 5 (AQP5) expression and lymphocyte apoptosis in paraquat-poisoned rats. Methods: Thirty healthy male Wales rats were randomly divided into three groups (n = 10): the control group received 0.9% sodium chloride (0.4 mL, intragastric administration; 0.8 mL, intraperitoneal injection); the paraquat group received 40 mg/kg paraquat (intragastric administration) and 0.9% sodium chloride (intraperitoneal injection); and the paraquat + lysine aspirin group received 40 mg/kg paraquat (intragastric administration) and 20 mg/kg lysine aspirin (intraperitoneal injection). Rats were killed at 24 and 48 h. RT-PCR and immunohistochemical staining were performed in lung tissue to determine the AQP5 mRNA and protein expression. Blood from the arterial vein was used to evaluate lymphocyte apoptosis. Results: The lung tissue of paraquat-treated rats displayed pulmonary hemorrhage, interstitial edema and inflammatory cell infiltration. AQP5 mRNA and protein expression in the paraquat-treated group decreased after 24 and 48 h, whereas the peripheral blood lymphocyte apoptosis ratio significantly increased. In contrast, paraquat + lysine aspirin treatment ameliorated these changes. Conclusion: Paraquat decreases AQP5 expression in rat lungs and increases peripheral blood lymphocyte apoptosis. Lysine aspirin can reduce these alterations.