Inflammation combating

Human bodies are constantly exposed to a plethora of bacteria, viruses, and other inflammatory substances. To combat these infections and toxic agents, the body has developed a carefully regulated inflammatory response system. Part of that response is the orderly migration of leukocytes to sites of inflammation. Leukocytes literally roll along the vascular wall and into the tissue site of inflammation. This rolling movement is mediated by reversible adhesive interactions between the leukocytes and the vascular surface. 

Antibiotics effectively kill the bacteria, but nothing in modern medicine could combat the toxicity of the Clostridium spores. The Clostridium infection caused massive inflammation of vital organs, internal hemorrhaging, and death. Experts say there is no telling when or where it may strike again. 

Correct answer = C. An acute asthmatic crisis often requires IV corticosteroids, often methylprednisolone. Inhaled beclomethasone will not deliver enough steroid to fully combat airway inflammation. 

Infection and inflammation of tissues have also been shown to alter the activity of CYP450 enzymes in the liver, kidney, and brain of humans. Such reduced activity affects Phase I metabolism of xenobiotics and results in increased toxic effects. In the case of the administration of drugs to combat an infection, these effects can result in toxic side effects from the treatment of the infection. Immune system responses to infection can have a negative effect on CYP450 enzyme metabolism of xenobiotics (see Section 4.12). 

Experiments indicate that sulforaphane furnishes protection against certain cancers by increasing the production of enzymes (called phase 2 enzymes) that "mop up" reactive molecules that can harm DNA. Sulforaphane also seems to combat bacteria. For example, among the most common harmful bacteria in humans is Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), which has been implicated in the development of several diseases of the stomach, including inflammation, cancer, and ulcers. Antibiotics are clearly the best treatment for H. pylori infections. However, especially in developing countries, where H. pylori is rampant, antibi-... 

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