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Purification of Human S100A12 and Its Ion-induced Oligomers for Immune Cell Stimulation
Published on: September 29, 2019
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Microplastics induce immune suppression via S100A8 downregulation.
Juan Wang1, Xiaojuan Wang2, Conghui Zhang3
1Henan Institute for Food and Drug Control, Zhengzhou, Henan 450000, China.
Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety
|July 22, 2022
Summary
Microplastics (MPs) in drinking water harm mouse immune systems, reducing spleen weight and altering T cell counts. This immune suppression is linked to decreased S100A8 expression, revealing a new mechanism of microplastic toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Immunology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Microplastic (MP) pollution is widespread in daily food and water.
- The health impacts of MPs on humans are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of MPs in drinking water on mouse immune function.
- To identify molecular mechanisms underlying MP-induced immune suppression.
Main Methods:
- Mice were exposed to MPs in drinking water.
- Proteomics and phosphoproteomics were performed using LC-MS/MS.
- Bioinformatic analysis, western blot, and histochemistry staining were used for verification.
Main Results:
- MP exposure reduced spleen weight, CD8+ T cell counts, and altered the CD4+/CD8+ T cell ratio.
- Proteomic and phosphoproteomic analyses revealed significant changes in protein expression, with pathways like asthma and IL-17 signaling enriched.
- S100A8 protein expression was significantly downregulated by MPs.
Conclusions:
- MPs in drinking water impair mouse immune function and cause spleen damage.
- Reduced S100A8 expression is a key mechanism in MP-induced immune suppression.
- MPs pose an underestimated threat to the mammalian immune system.
