Exam 6: Nonrespiratory Function of the Lung

Question 1

Describe the composition of airway fluid

Answer 1

Clara cells, goblet cells, and submucosal glands secrete serous and/or mucus fluid to create a fluid bilayer

Question 2

What are the different mechanisms that are utilized in the removal of inhaled particles?

Answer 2

Mucociliary elevator
Phagocytosis by macrophages
Filtration by pulmonary circulation

Question 3

What are the filtration and anticoagulant functions of the pulmonary circulation?

Answer 3

Filters fibrin clots, fat, air
Protect systemic organs
Anticoagulants (heparin, plasmin, activator, thromboplastin) activated/deactivated
Activation factors (angiotensin converting enzyme)

Question 4

What is angiotensin I and how is it affected by the lung?

Answer 4

Angiotensin I is an inactive peptide

It is converted to angiotensin II by ACE in the lung

Question 5

What is the role of the lung in temperature regulation?

Answer 5

Heat: increased dead space ventilation
Panting: evaporative cooling of the mucous membranes
Cold: Decreased dead space ventilation