Overview

• Chronic exposure to PM2.5 and PM10 triggered oxidative stress and sustained activation of the NRF2 pathway in mouse lung tissue.
• Persistent NRF2 activation suppressed protective TH1 responses and elevated TH2 cytokines IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13 along with asthma-associated antibodies IgE and IgG1.
• Mice exposed to PM2.5 showed more pronounced alveolar wall thickening, immune cell infiltration and tissue scarring than those exposed to PM10.
• Researchers are assessing ALDH1A1 enhancement to restore mucociliary clearance in PM2.5-injured lungs based on early preclinical results.
• Over 90% of the global population breathes air exceeding WHO safety guidelines, highlighting the urgency for targeted interventions.