Influence of fine particulate matter (PM_(2.5)) on the function of human immune cells

摘要

Fine airborne particulate matter (PM_(2.5)) evidently contributes to morbidity and mortality of exposed populations, particularly in densely populated industrial areas with heavy traffic. Research on the toxic effects of PM_(2.5) has indicated that numerous adverse health consequences of exposure to PM_(2.5) result from their immunomodulatory and immunotoxic effects. Therefore, immunological assays are supposed to be a suitable screening tool for evaluating the harmful potential of PM. Using selected in vitro immunological assay, we have evaluated changes in both humoral a cell-mediated components of the innate and acquired immune response. Generation of reactive oxygen species was assessed using a chemiluminescence assay. Stimulation effects of the PM sample on the key component of cell specific immunity was monitored using a lymphocyte proliferation assay. Allergenic potential of the PM sample was investigated by a basophil degranulation assay. Changes in levels of selected cytokine were monitored using a multiplex technology ALBIA. Even if certain immunomodulatory effects of short-term incubation of the PM_(2.5) sample in whole blood cultures were observed using in vitro immunological assays, changes in evaluated immune response parameters were not significant to prove impact on the immune cells' functions of healthy persons. However, health risks of long-term exposure, especially for individuals with genetic predisposition to certain diseases or already existing diseases, cannot be excluded.