[Effects of nitrogen dioxide on alveolar macrophages surviving in the gas phase. A new experimental model for the study of in vitro cytotoxicity of toxic gases (author's transl)].

Alveolar macrophages surviving in the gas phase were exposed to concentrations of NO2 (0.1, 1 and 2 ppm) for 30 minutes. The exposed cells showed morphological changes, a decrease in bactericidal activity and a reduction of the ATP content. The severity of these changes is related to NO2 concentration. This new experimental model offers new possibilities for studies on the cytotoxicity of gases.