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Abstract
The aims of this project was to optimize cell fixation method from induced sputum. We have determined the influence of fixation methods on the conservation of cellular markers. The second part of this study was the characterisation of alveolar macrophage, this cell is implicates in asthma, but its role is not clear. We have characterised alveolar macrophage from asthmatic allergic subjects and normal subjects. We have compared two methods frequently used for the evaluation of inflammation: induced sputum, non-invasive method and bronchoalveolar lavage, invasive method, to determine alveolar macrophage sub-populations. We have demonstrated that the expression of cellular markers varies between different sub-population. Finally, we have developed alveolar macrophage cell lines. These cells were conserved in vitro during some weeks but they did not proliferate.
