Search for: [Abstract = "Chronic exposure to airborne fine particulate matter is associated with various inflammatory diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of inorganic pollutants – silica and ferric oxide nanoparticles – on the development of atherosclerosis and hepatic steatosis in apoE\-knockout mice. The mice were exposed to pollutants in a whole\-body inhalation chamber for 16 weeks. Histological and immunohistochemical investigations revealed that exposure to silicon oxide nanoparticles exacerbates atherosclerosis. The pro\-atherogenic action of silica nanoparticles was associated with the activation of pro\-inflammatory M1 macrophages. Exposure to ferric oxide nanoparticles did not enhance atherogenesis, however, it caused significant changes in the atherosclerotic plaque composition. Both silica and ferric oxide nanoparticles altered the phenotype of T lymphocytes in the spleen by promoting polarization towards Th17 cells. Histopathological analysis demonstrated microvesicular hepatic steatosis in mice exposed to silica nanoparticles. Quantitative liver proteomics showed significant changes in the level of endoplasmic reticulum proteins, as well as proteins involved in mitochondrial functions. Obtained results highlight the important role of inorganic air pollution components, especially silica nanoparticles, in the development of atherosclerosis and hepatic steatosis."]

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