Changes in local alpha-1-antitrypsin expression during the pathogenesis of experimental bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome

Alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT) is the prototypical member of the serin protease inhibitor (SERPIN) family. It is mainly produced by the liver, but can also be produced by monocytes, macrophages and alveolar epithelial cells. AAT is released in large amounts during the acute phase of inflammation and limits tissue damage due to its antiprotease activity. Anti-inflammatory effects independent of antiprotease function are currently investigated. AAT might also play a role during Bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS), the major cause of death of patients after lung transplantation, which limits survival rates to 53% af…