Paraquat-poisoning produces TNF-α-mediated edema and neutrophil accumulation in the lungs.

<p>Pulmonary permeability (<b>A</b>) and neutrophil accumulation in the lungs (<b>B</b>) of control, paraquat-poisoned (PQ) and paraquat-poisoned rats after treatment with etanercept. The total protein content was used as an index of protein leakage due to alveolar-microvascular membrane injury. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity was used as an index of neutrophil influx into the lungs. Results are shown as protein content (mg/ml) or MPO index and represent the mean ± SE of five animals in each group. *p<0.05; **p<0.01 and ***p<0.001.