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Inhalation exposure to three-dimensional printer emissions stimulates acute hypertension and microvascular
A B Stefaniak1, R F LeBouf2, M G Duling2
1Toxicology Working Group, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA; National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, USA.
Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology
|September 25, 2017
Summary
Inhalation of 3D printing emissions (3DPE) from Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM™) significantly raises blood pressure and impairs microvascular function in rats. This study highlights potential cardiovascular risks associated with 3D printing air pollution.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
- Cardiovascular Physiology
Background:
- Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM™) 3D printing is widespread, emitting complex ultrafine particulate matter (3DPE).
- Inhalation of such particles is linked to cardiovascular issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the acute effects of 3DPE inhalation on microvascular function and blood pressure in Sprague-Dawley rats.
Main Methods:
- Rats were exposed to 3DPE aerosols for 3 hours.
- Microvascular function was assessed 24 hours later using intravital microscopy.
- Endothelium-dependent (acetylcholine) and -independent (sodium nitroprusside) vasodilation were measured.
Main Results:
- 3DPE-exposed rats showed significantly higher mean arterial pressure (125±4 mmHg vs. 94±3 mmHg).
- Resting arteriolar tone increased by ~12% in the 3DPE group.
- Endothelium-dependent dilation was impaired by ~27% in 3DPE-exposed rats, while endothelium-independent dilation remained unaffected.
Conclusions:
- Acute inhalation of 3DPE elevates arterial pressure and impairs microvascular reactivity.
- These findings suggest FDM™ emissions pose a risk to cardiovascular health.
- Further research is needed to identify specific toxicants responsible for these effects.
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