Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 3, 2026

Split Point Analysis and Uncertainty Quantification of Thermal-Optical Organic/Elemental Carbon Measurements
Published on: September 7, 2019
Pulmonary black carbon accumulation: mechanisms, health impacts, and environmental sources
Maria Luiza Ferreira Vicente1,2, Ana Flavia Gomes1, Alejandra Estela Miranda1
1Sao Carlos Institute of Physics, Sao Carlos, University of São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Introduction:
Black carbon (BC), a major component of combustion-derived particulate matter, contributes substantially to air pollution and climate change and is increasingly recognized as a biologically active particle capable of crossing biological barriers and accumulating in human tissues. This review examines the evolution of BC exposure and its emerging relevance as a biomarker of cumulative internal dose.
Areas Covered:
We review the historical sources, physicochemical properties, atmospheric behavior, exposure assessment, biodistribution, tissue retention, detection methods, and health effects of BC. Particular emphasis is placed on tissue-based biomonitoring, label-free optical detection, and evidence linking BC exposure to respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological, developmental, metabolic, gastrointestinal, and immunological effects. PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Scopus were searched for studies published through June 2026, including epidemiological, experimental, mechanistic, and biomonitoring investigations.
Expert Opinion:
Tissue-based BC biomonitoring may bridge external exposure assessment and biologically effective internal dose. Its integration with exposome research and precision environmental health could improve individual exposure characterization, identify susceptible populations, and strengthen environmental prevention strategies.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Inflammation
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease I: Introduction
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-I: Introduction
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease IV: Clinical Manifestations
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Smoking is a primary risk factor for COPD, with over 80% of patients having a history of it. Patients typically experience progressive dyspnea or labored breathing, frequent coughing, and recurrent pulmonary infections. Many eventually succumb to respiratory failure, characterized by...

