Inhibition by quinacrine of acetylcholine-induced broncoconstriction in isolated and perfused rat lung

The antimalarial drug quinacrine has been used experimentally as an inhibit or of phospholipase A(2) and as a cell membrane stabilizer. Recent studies have shown that it may interact with the acetylcholine receptor antagonist effect. The cholinergic response is an important factor in the control of t he bronchial tone. We have now examined the effect of quinacrine on acetylc holine-induced broncoconstriction in isolated, pet-fused and ventilated rat lung. Quinacrine pretreatment significantly inhibited the decrease in lung compliance and conductance induced by acetylcholine alone. This suggests t hat the drug may act as an acetylcholine inhibitor, so affecting the bronch ial tone of the lung. Med Sci Res 27:811-812 (C) 1999 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.