Why is the lung specifically identified as the principal target organ for damage during paraquat poisoning?
Answer
It contains high concentrations of NADPH oxidase and lacks protective glutathione peroxidase
The lung accumulates paraquat more effectively than other tissues. Within lung cells, the enzyme NADPH oxidase facilitates the creation of superoxide radicals when paraquat is present. Simultaneously, lung tissue suffers from a relative deficiency in glutathione peroxidase, which is the enzyme responsible for neutralizing free radicals. This combination of high radical generation and low protective detoxification capacity makes the lungs uniquely vulnerable to irreversible injury and progressive fibrosis.
Related Questions
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