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Multi-walled carbon nanotube instillation impairs pulmonary function in C57BL/6 mice
Xiaojia Wang1, Pranita Katwa, Ramakrishna Podila
1Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA. wangx@ecu.edu
Particle and Fibre Toxicology
|August 20, 2011
Summary
Exposure to multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in mice caused lung inflammation and fibrosis, leading to impaired pulmonary function. These findings suggest MWCNTs pose a significant risk to lung health in occupational and environmental settings.
Area of Science:
- Nanomaterial toxicology
- Pulmonary medicine
- Environmental health
Background:
- Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) possess unique properties, leading to widespread use.
- Concerns are rising regarding the potential human health and environmental impacts of manufactured MWCNTs.
- This study investigated MWCNT-induced pulmonary dysfunction in mice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if MWCNT instillation impairs pulmonary function in C57BL/6 mice.
- To investigate the role of lung inflammation and fibrosis in MWCNT-induced pulmonary impairment.
Main Methods:
- C57BL/6 mice were exposed to MWCNTs via oropharyngeal aspiration at doses of 1, 2, and 4 mg/kg.
- Lung inflammation and fibrosis were assessed through inflammatory cell infiltration, collagen content, and histology.
- Pulmonary function was measured using a FlexiVent system, and gene/protein expression (Ccl3, Ccl11, Mmp13, IL-33) was analyzed.
Main Results:
- MWCNT administration resulted in increased inflammatory cell infiltration, collagen deposition, and granuloma formation in lung tissue.
- Impaired pulmonary function was evidenced by increased resistance, tissue damping, and decreased lung compliance.
- MWCNT exposure induced an inflammatory profile including elevated IL-33, Ccl3, Ccl11, and Mmp13, contributing to lung inflammation and fibrosis.
Conclusions:
- MWCNT exposure in mice led to significant lung inflammation, fibrosis, and impaired pulmonary function.
- These findings underscore the potential adverse health effects of MWCNTs.
- Occupational and environmental exposure to MWCNTs may pose a substantial risk to lung health.
