Effect of acute oral administration of alcohol on superoxide anion production from mouse alveolar macrophages.

The production of superoxide anions (superoxide) from alveolar macrophages stimulated or not with opsonized zymosan was investigated in the mouse after acute oral administration of alcohol (6.5 g/kg). Superoxide production was assayed using a nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction and chemiluminescence assay. In the absence of opsonized zymosan, superoxide concentration was not affected 1 h after ethanol treatment but was significantly increased 15 and 24 h after treatment. In the presence of opsonized zymosan, a biphasic response was observed. Superoxide production was significantly reduced 1 and 3 h after administration but was increased 15 and 24 h after treatment. One hour after treatment, the percentage of cells that phagocytized opsonized zymosan and reduced NBT was significantly decreased, whereas 24 h after alcohol treatment, phagocytosis was normal and the percentage of cells reducing NBT was significantly increased. The activity of cytosolic superoxide dismutase from alveolar macrophages was not altered 1 h after administration but was significantly reduced 24 h later. Considering the functions of alveolar macrophages in the defense of the lung, these alterations in the production of reactive oxygen species after ingestion of alcohol could explain why alcoholics are more sensitive to pulmonary infections.