Impact of Air Pollutants on Lung Function and Inflammatory Response in Asthma in Shanghai.

Abstract

Objective: Air pollution is a leading public health issue. This study investigated the effect of air quality and pollutants on pulmonary function and inflammation in patients with asthma in Shanghai.

Methods: The study monitored 27 asthma outpatients for a year, collecting data on weather, patient self-management [daily asthma diary, peak expiratory flow (PEF) monitoring, medication usage], spirometry and serum markers. To explore the potential mechanisms of any effects, asthmatic mice induced by ovalbumin (OVA) were exposed to PM _2.5.

Results: Statistical and correlational analyses revealed that air pollutants have both acute and chronic effects on asthma. Acute exposure showed a correlation between PEF and levels of ozone (O ₃) and nitrogen dioxide (NO ₂). Chronic exposure indicated that interleukin-5 (IL-5) and interleukin-13 (IL-13) levels correlated with PM _2.5 and PM ₁₀ concentrations. In asthmatic mouse models, exposure to PM _2.5 increased cytokine levels and worsened lung function. Additionally, PM _2.5 exposure inhibited cell proliferation by blocking the NF-κB and ERK phosphorylation pathways.

Conclusion: Ambient air pollutants exacerbate asthma by worsening lung function and enhancing Th2-mediated inflammation. Specifically, PM _2.5 significantly contributes to these adverse effects. Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms by which PM _2.5 impacts asthma.