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Monocyte exposure to fine particulate matter results in miRNA release: A link between air pollution and potential
Ewa Konduracka1, Krzysztof Krawczyk2, Marcin Surmiak3
1Jagiellonian University Medical College, Coronary Disease Department and Heart Failure, John Paul II Hospital, Kraków, Poland.
Abstract:
Chronic exposure to PM2.5 contributes to the pathogenesis of numerous disorders, although the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. The study investigated whether exposure of human monocytes to PM2.5 is associated with alterations in miRNAs. Monocytes were exposed in vitro to PM2.5 collected during winter and summer, followed by miRNA isolation from monocytes. Additionally, in 140 persons chronically exposed to air pollution, some miRNA patterns were isolated from serum seasonally. Between-season differences in chemical PM2.5 composition were observed. Some miRNAs were expressed both in monocytes and in human serum. MiR-34c-5p and miR-223-5p expression was more pronounced in winter. Bioinformatics analyses showed that selected miRNAs were involved in the regulation of several pathways. The expression of the same miRNA species in monocytes and serum suggests that these cells are involved in the production of miRNAs implicated in the development of disorders mediated by inflammation, oxidative stress, proliferation, and apoptosis after exposure to PM2.5.
Insights
Chronic exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) alters microRNA (miRNA) expression in human monocytes and serum. These miRNA changes may contribute to PM2.5-related health disorders.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Molecular Biology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Chronic exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is linked to various diseases, but mechanisms are unclear.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial regulators of gene expression and implicated in disease pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between PM2.5 exposure and alterations in miRNA expression in human monocytes and serum.
- To explore potential seasonal differences in PM2.5 composition and associated miRNA profiles.
Main Methods:
- In vitro exposure of human monocytes to PM2.5 collected in different seasons.
- miRNA isolation and profiling from exposed monocytes and serum of individuals with chronic air pollution exposure.
- Bioinformatics analysis to identify pathways regulated by altered miRNAs.
Main Results:
- Seasonal variations in the chemical composition of PM2.5 were observed.
- Specific miRNAs (e.g., miR-34c-5p, miR-223-5p) showed differential expression in monocytes and serum, with higher levels in winter.
- Identified miRNAs are involved in regulating pathways related to inflammation, oxidative stress, proliferation, and apoptosis.
Conclusions:
- Human monocytes express miRNAs that are also found in serum, suggesting their role in PM2.5-mediated disease development.
- PM2.5 exposure induces miRNA alterations in monocytes and serum, potentially contributing to inflammation and oxidative stress-related disorders.
