Effects of Different Components of PM on the Expression Levels of NF-κB Family Gene mRNA and Inflammatory Molecules in Human Macrophage.

Studies have found that exposure to fine particulate matter with sizes below 2.5 µm (PM) might cause inflammation response via the NF-B pathway. To date, only a few studies have focused on the toxicity of different components of PM. We aimed to explore the effects of PM with different components on the expression levels of NF-B family gene mRNA and inflammatory molecules in human macrophages. Human monocytic cell line THP-1-derived macrophages were exposed to water-soluble (W-PM), fat-soluble (F-PM), and insoluble (I-PM) PM. The cell survival rate was measured by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The levels of inflammatory molecules were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the relative mRNA levels of the NF-B family gene were determined by real time PCR. PM could decrease the cell viability. After exposure to W-PM, the levels of interleukins (IL)-1β and IL-12 p70 significantly increased. After exposure to F-PM, the levels of IL-12 p70 significantly increased. The levels of IL-12 p70 and TNF-α after exposure to I-PM were significantly higher than that in W- and F-PM treatment groups. The levels of IL-8, C reactive protein (CRP), and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 increased only after exposure to I-PM. F-PM increased the mRNA levels of NF-B genes, especially - and . PM can decrease the cell survival rate and up-regulate the expression of NF-B family gene mRNA and inflammatory molecules. The main toxic components of PM related to inflammatory response in macrophages were the I-PM.