Thiocyanates (SCN-) are ubiquitous in nature. There are indispensable part of host defense system that act as a substrate for lactoperoxidase (LPO). In our study we present initial data on SCN- concentration in saliva of CF patients in comparison to healthy non-smokers and healthy smokers. 5 ml of saliva was collected from each subject to a sterile tube and thiocyanate concentration was measured in each sample. The results of the measurements are presented on Fig. 1. Mean concentration of SCN- in saliva of CF patients was 0.031 +/- 0.0052 g/l, in healthy non-smokers 0.039 +/- 0.0048 g/l and in healthy smokers 0.048 +/- 0.0161 g/l. The differences between each group were statistically significant. Studies on larger group of patients and probably on different material (BALF or induced sputum) should present interesting data complementing the in vitro studies.

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Deterioration of the aortic wall resulting in formation of aneurysms may be caused by increased activity of metalloproteases and lysosomal proteases. The aim of this work was the evaluation of cathepsin D and cathepsin L activities, and activities of inhibitors of cysteine cathepsins in the wall of aortic aneurysms and in parietal thrombus. Aortic aneurysms were obtained during operation. Aortas taken from organ donors and blood clots were used as control material. Activities of cathepsin D and cathepsin L in the aortic aneurysm wall and parietal thrombus were higher than in the control groups. The aneurysm wall showed lower activity of inhibitors of cysteine proteases than the normal aorta. Parietal thrombus had a higher level of cysteine protease inhibitor activity than blood clot. Cathepsin D and cathepsin L present in the aneurysm wall and in the parietal thrombus filling the aneurysm may act on proteins determining elasticity and mechanical resistance of arteries.

These observations indicate that the thrombogenic properties of CsA may result from the alteration of lipid organization in platelet plasma membrane, leading to externalization of PS and accelerated thrombin generation.