Neutrophils make an enzyme called neutrophil elastase, a protease capable of breaking down elastin, which is an extracellular matrix protein that gives elasticity and strength to lung tissues.

中性粒细胞产生中性粒细胞弹性蛋白酶，该酶能够水解弹性蛋白；弹性蛋白是一种细胞外基质蛋白，赋予肺组织弹性和韧性。