Particulate matter effects on peritoneal macrophages inflammatory function in C57BL/6 mice

Abstract Background: Urban air pollution represents a challenge in Tehran. Health care organs and physicians pay much attention because of health effect on mankind. Nowadays, a majority of air pollution related articles focus on particulate matter adverse effects on human health. Epidemiologic studies show the direct correlation between ambient particulate matter and risk of respiratory system and cardiovascular disease. However, little attention has been given to the effects of air pollution on the gastrointestinal system. Emergency system visit increases on polluted days. Recent studies have shown high incidence of susceptibility to inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), appendicitis, and colorectal cancer in the polluted ar eas. Materials and Methods: We investigated the effect of Particulate matter in two aerodynamic diameters (PM2.5 and PM10) on peritoneal immune system cells. PM filters of different stations were purchased from Tehran Air Quality Standard Agency. After harvesting the particles from corresponding filters, the PMs were cultured with C57BL/6 inbred mice peritoneal macrophages. MTT test was performed to define the stimulatory and toxic effects of PMs on macrophages. Results: The results of MTT test showed stimulation of macrophages by PMs. PM2.5 was more potent in increasing MTT test absorbance. Also, both particles stimulated macrophages in 10μg/ml concentration in comparison to 5 μg/ml concentration. Conclusion: These results show particles stimulate macrophages and this stimulation can result in production of inflammatory cytokines and other macrophage function. In further studies, we will continue our investigation by evaluating PM effects on pr oducing cytokines and gene expression. Keywords: Immune system; Macrophage; Peritoneal; Suspended particles of air pollution