Rapid loss of superoxide dismutase activity during antigen-induced asthmatic response

Loss of superoxide dismutase activity occurs within minutes of an acute ast hmatic response to segmental antigen instillation into the lung of individu als with atopic asthma. Decreased activity undoubtedly contributes to airwa y inflammation and injury through increased formation of reactive oxygen an d nitrogen species, and suggests that enrichment of lung antioxidants is th erapeutic for asthma.