Fig 2.

Mechanisms important in the resolution of acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome. On the left side of the alveolus, the alveolar epithelium is being repopulated by the proliferation and differentiation of alveolar type II cells. Resorption of alveolar edema fluid is shown at the base of the alveolus, with sodium and chloride being transported through the apical membrane of type II cells. Sodium is taken up by the epithelial sodium channel and through the apical membrane of type II cells by the sodium pump (Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase). The relevant pathways for chloride transport are unclear. Water is shown moving through water channels, the aquaporins, located primarily on type I cells. Some water may also cross by a paracellular route. Soluble protein is probably cleared primarily by paracellular diffusion and secondarily by endocytosis by alveolar epithelial cells. Macrophages remove insoluble protein and apoptotic neutrophils by phagocytosis. On the right side of the alveolus, the gradual remodeling and resolution of intra-alveolar and interstitial granulation tissue and fibrosis are shown. Reprinted with the permission of the publisher [146]. Copyright © 2000 Massachusetts Medical Society. All rights reserved.