Effect of angioprotectors on morphological changes in the lungs in COPD model

The aim of this study was to investigate morphological changes in the bronchi and the pulmonary arteries in the natural course of COPD and under treatment with angioprotective agents. Methods. COPD was modelled in rats by intermittent nitrogen dioxide inhalations for 60 days. Agents with angioprotective activity, such as rosuvastatin or sulodexide, were administered after the 30^th day of the exposure. Histological examination included morphometry. Results. The vascular wall thickness due to the media and the intima area enlargement was seen during COPD development without change in the vessel lumen. The Intima / media index also increased that is a typical sign of atherosclerotic lesion of the vascular wall. Pulmonary arteries diameter and the lumen size reduced under the treatment with sulodexide and rosuvastatin without any change in the vascular wall thickness but the intima / media index approached to the normal value. Conclusion. Ventilatory disorder progression in COPD is thought to be due to bronchial wall and lung remodeling such as sclerosis of the bronchial smooth muscle layer and occurrence of panacinar emphysema. Rosuvastatin improved pulmonary circulation and reduced lymphocytic infiltration of the large bronchi wall and the interalveolar septae. Positive effect of sulodexide on the pulmonary artery wall could be related to the presence of highly active heparin fraction in the drug structure that can improve the endothelial cell function. Agents with antithrombotic and angioprotective activity could slow COPD progression and of severe complication development.

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