[The influence of superoxide dismutase and catalase on the course of the pathological process in the lungs in experimental silicosis].

The authors studied role of antioxidant enzymes--superoxide dismutase and catalase--in pathogenesis of experimental pulmonary silicosis in rats. Experimental silicosis was induced by intratracheal administration of quartz dust, 20 mg. Aerosols of superoxide dismutase and catalase water solutions were inhaled twice a week during first month and 5 times a week over the next 1.5 months. The results perfectly match the previous data proving quartz dust to stimulate granulocytes' release of extracellular superoxide radicals and hydrogen peroxide. The research results also demonstrate important role of agents moving one electron for reduction of oxygen in silicosis pathogenesis.