Non-redox cycling mechanisms of oxidative stress induced by PM metals

Metallic compounds contribute to the oxidative stress of ambient particulate matter (PM) exposure. The toxicity of redox inert ions of cadmium, mercury, lead and zinc, as well as redox-active ions of vanadium and chromium is underlain by dysregulation of mitochondrial function and loss of signaling quiescence. Central to the initiation of these effects is the interaction of metal ions with cysteinyl thiols on glutathione and key regulatory proteins, which leads to impaired mitochondrial electron transport and persistent pan-activation of signal transduction pathways. The mitochondrial and signaling effects are linked by the production of H₂O₂, generated from mitochondrial superoxide anion or through the activation of NADPH oxidase, which extends the range and amplifies the magnitude of the oxidative effects of the metals. This oxidative burden can be further potentiated by inhibitory effects of the metals on the enzymes of the glutathione and thioredoxin systems. Along with the better-known Fenton-based mechanisms, the non-redox cycling mechanisms of oxidative stress induced by metals constitute significant pathways for cellular injury induced by PM inhalation.