Effect of High Levels of Oxygen and Smoking on the Lungs in Human Volunteers

Stress such as high oxygen or inflammation can result in damage to proteins by processes such as oxidation or alternative regulation of signaling pathways by post-translational modification of proteins (e.g., phosphorylation). Delivery of oxygen in high concentrations to the lungs can result in damage, which is mediated in large part by reactive oxygen species. Inflammation can result in activation of intracellular signaling pathways. This study will evaluate modification of proteins and nucleic acids in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, bronchial epithelial cells, and peripheral blood of individuals exposed to oxygen or who are smokers. In doing so, it will determine the effects of hyperoxia or inflammation on the lung.