Abstract
Background:MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a key factor in epigenetic regulation of gene expression, but miRNA responses to fine particulate matter () air pollution and their potential contribution to cardiovascular effects of are unknown.Objective:We explored the potential influence of on the expression of selected cytokines relevant to systemic inflammation, coagulation, and vasoconstriction, and on miRNAs that may regulate their expression.Methods:We designed a double-blind, randomized crossover study in which true and sham air purifiers were used to expose 55 healthy young adult students in Shanghai, China, to reduced or ambient levels of indoor during two-week periods, and we measured the expression (mRNA and protein) of 10 serum cytokines, and miRNAs that target them, after each intervention period. We used linear mixed-effect models to estimate associations of the intervention, and time-weighted personal exposures, with the cytokines, mRNA, and miRNAs; we also explored potential mediation by miRNAs.Results:The findings were generally consistent for associations with the intervention and for associations with an interquartile range increase in time-weighted . Specifically, higher exposure was positively associated with the expression (mRNA, protein, or both) of interleukin-1 (encoded by IL1), IL6, tumor necrosis factor (encoded by TNF), toll-like receptor 2 (encoded by TLR2), coagulation factor 3 (encoded by F3), and endothelin 1 (encoded by EDN1), and was negatively associated with miRNAs (miR-21-5p, miR-187-3p, miR-146a-5p, miR-1-3p, and miR-199a-5p) predicted to target mRNAs of IL1, TNF, TLR2, and EDN1.Conclusions:Our findings require confirmation but suggest that effects of on cardiovascular diseases may be related to acute effects on cytokine expression, which may be partly mediated through effects of on miRNAs that regulate cytokine expression. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP1447
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
