Three-dimensional architecture of elastin and collagen fiber networks in the human and rat lung

Collagen and elastin fibers are the major components of the lung connective tissue, but their spatial organization has not been well documented. We have demonstrated the three-dimensional architecture of collagen and elastin fiber networks in the human and rat lung using scanning electron microscopy. These networks in their original forms were extracted by an alkali-water maceration technique and a formic acid treatment, respectively. The collagen fibers formed a continuum extending throughout the lung and pleura. They were condensed in the alveolar mouth and subdivided into smaller fibers in the alveolar septa, thus forming basket-like networks. Sizes of the alveolar pores in the collagen fiber network of the alveolar septa became larger with age. In the collapsed lung, collagen fibers in the alveolar mouths and septa took on wavelike configurations, while in the inflated lung they became straight. The elastin fibers also formed a continuum, rich in the alveolar mouths and poor in the alveolar septa, were quite straight without any wavelike configuration. Transmission electron microscopy showed that collagen and elastin fibers were intermingled, suggesting that both fiber systems may act as parallel mechanical elements to stress or strain applied. Our results suggest that at low levels of strain the wavy collagen fibers are easily extended to allow alveolar mouths and alveoli to expand, with most of the stress being borne by adjacent elastin fibers, while at higher levels collagen fibers become straight and limit any further distension of alveolar ducts and alveoli. The elastin fiber continuum appears to permit the lung to effectively recoil or retract. The present study has also shown that alveolar pores enlarge with age, suggesting that collagen remodeling may be related to the pathogenesis of emphysema.