Ultrafine particle exposure on a primary cell model of the upper airways

Introduction Ultrafine particles (UFP; <100nm) are generated, e.g., by traffic, and their effects on human health are poorly understood. A first and important interaction between our bodies and UFPs occur in the airways. In toxicological in vitro studies, particles are commonly dissolved in liquid, which may have a relevant impact on the UFP’s health effects. The aim here was to adapt an air-borne particle exposure system to a human in vitro model of the upper airways.

Material and methods An air-liquid interface (ALI) airway mucosal model was generated from primary nasal biopsies. Exposures were carried out with a Vitrocell system, which transports air-borne online generated UFP onto the mucosal model. Toxic impact was analyzed be assessing changes in barrier integrity (TEER), cyto- and genotoxic analysis (LDH and Comet assays), as well as an estimation of oxidative stress (GSH/GSSH). In addition, models were characterized by ultrastructural analysis.

Results Exposure to clean air did not result in any cytotoxic, genotoxic or functional changes. 2h and 26h post UFP exposure, a reduction in barrier integrity without cyto- or genotoxic effects was measured. Indications of oxidative stress were detected.

Conclusions An exposure system for air-borne UFP exposures of a human upper airway primary cell model was evaluated and successfully established. Preliminary experiments suggest resulting effects on barrier integrity and stress responses. In additional experiments, the established setup will be applied to increase the number of donors in the study.

Bayrischer Projektverbund Ultrafeine Partikel, Bayerisches Staatsministerium für Umwelt und Verbraucherschutz

Publication History

Article published online:
12 May 2023