Friday, September 3, 2010

Protecting Lungs

http://www.biologynews.net/archives/2010/09/02/protecting_the_lungs_against_collateral_damage_from_the_immune_system.html
Protecting the Lungs From Collateral Damage
A study published today in the journal Science shows how our bodies try to reduce potential collateral damage caused by our immune system when fighting infection. When bacteria or viruses enter the body, our immune system fights back with a cell called neutrophil and it attacks by releasing toxic enzymes. However the toxic enzymes can cause damage to the surrounding tissue. A Dr. explains that "Neutrophils are powerful at fighting infection, but if left unchecked, they can cause damage to our own bodies." The toxic enzymes damage lungs the most . The doctors have also found that if you smoke, the chemicals in the smoke can have a negative effect on the neutrophils and hurt your lungs even worse. The damage effects the way of breathing you have making it harder for you especially if you smoke.

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