Ozone damage of molecules in the lungs
Tuesday, October 5, 2010 - 14:30
in Physics & Chemistry
Lungs are lined with a mixture of molecules to ensure that they function well. For example, some of these help with the removal of inhaled particles. Retention of a moist film at the surface is also crucial. Recent work published in Langmuir provides important ideas as to how some of these molecules are affected by ozone that can arise as a pollutant in the atmosphere and is known to be a severe pulmonary irritant.