Copper-dependent inflammation and nuclear factor-kappaB activation by particulate air pollution

T Kennedy1, A J Ghio, W Reed

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte; National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.

Summary

Particulate air pollution, particularly in Provo, Utah, triggers lung inflammation. Copper ions (Cu2+) in these particles appear to be a key factor driving these harmful biologic effects.

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