Gene Expression Analysis to Investigate Biological Networks Underlying Nasal Inflammatory Dysfunctions Induced by Diesel Exhaust Particles Using an In Vivo System

Abstract

Objectives: Diesel exhaust particles (DEP)s are notorious ambient pollutants composed of a complex mixture of a carbon core and diverse chemical irritants. Several studies have demonstrated significant relationships between DEP exposure and serious nasal inflammatory response in vitro, but available information regarding underlying networks in terms of gene expression changes has not sufficiently explained potential mechanisms of DEP-induced nasal damage, especially in vivo. Methods: In the present study, we identified DEP-induced gene expression profiles under short-term and long-term exposure, and identified signaling pathways based on microarray data for understanding effects of DEP exposure in the mouse nasal cavity. Results: Alteration in gene expression due to DEP exposure provokes an imbalance of the immune system via dysregulated inflammatory markers, predicted to disrupt protective responses against harmful exogenous substances in the body. Several candidate markers were identified after validation using qRT-PCR, including S100A9, CAMP, IL20, and S100A8. Conclusions: Although further mechanistic studies are required for verifying the utility of the potential biomarkers suggested by the present study, our in vivo results may provide meaningful suggestions for understanding the complex cellular signaling pathways involved in DEP-induced nasal damages.

Genomic approach to explore altered signaling networks of olfaction in response to diesel exhaust particles in mice

“…Intriguingly, we observed significant downregulation of Il1b and Il6. This inconsistency might be attributed to abnormal immune function by DEP-mediated damage 34 . Il1b and Il6 play essential roles to promote neuronal regeneration and to regulate sensory functions and processing after nerve injury [35][36][37][38][39][40] .…”

Narrative review: association between lung cancer development and ambient particulate matter in never-smokers

“…Epigenetic changes in the genome are considered to mediate the effects of air pollutants on lung cancer development (53). Long-term exposure to the chemical constituents of PM ultimately generates genetic mutations and defects in gene expression (14), as proved in animal and in vitro experiments (54)(55)(56).…”