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Foam cell formation by particulate matter (PM) exposure: a review
Yi Cao1, Jimin Long1, Yuejia Ji1
1a Key Laboratory of Environment-Friendly Chemistry and Applications of Ministry Education, Laboratory of Biochemistry, College of Chemistry, Xiangtan University , Xiangtan , China.
Inhalation Toxicology
|October 7, 2016
Summary
Particulate matter (PM) and nanoparticles (NPs) exposure can promote lipid accumulation in macrophages, contributing to atherosclerosis. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms and the role of vascular smooth muscle cells in this process.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Cardiovascular Research
- Toxicology
Background:
- Particulate matter (PM) from sources like diesel exhaust particles (DEP) is linked to adverse vascular effects, including atherosclerosis.
- Engineered nanoparticles (NPs) may induce similar vascular effects.
- Foam cell formation, particularly from macrophages and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC), is central to atherosclerosis development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current studies on particle exposure-induced lipid-laden foam cell formation.
- To identify knowledge gaps regarding the mechanisms and cell types involved.
Main Methods:
- Review of in vivo animal model studies on air pollution PM exposure.
- Review of in vitro studies using cultured macrophages exposed to DEP or NPs.
- Analysis of findings related to lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, and cell types.
Main Results:
- In vivo studies show PM exposure promotes lipid accumulation in macrophages and plaque foam cells, linked to inflammation and oxidative stress, but not blood lipids.
- In vitro studies demonstrate DEP and NP exposure induce intracellular lipid accumulation in macrophages.
- Mechanisms remain largely unknown; the role of oxidative stress requires further investigation.
Conclusions:
- Particle exposure, including PM and NPs, can induce foam cell formation, a key event in atherosclerosis.
- While macrophages are implicated, the role of VSMC in particle-induced foam cell formation is understudied.
- Future research should focus on elucidating mechanisms, including oxidative stress, and the contribution of VSMC to particle-induced atherosclerosis.
