Proteomic Analysis of Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid Obtained from Rats Exposed to Formaldehyde

Abstract

Formaldehyde is an industrial chemical used in the manufacture of building materials and household products, and is one of the major pollutants that cause “sick building syndrome.” Formaldehyde causes a wide range of toxic effects such as the formation of DNA-protein cross-links, activation of the immune system, and sensory irritation. In the present study, we investigated the effects of formaldehyde inhalation on protein levels in rat bronchoalveolar lavage fluid with a proteomics approach. Using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time-of-flight mass spectroscopy, we identified aldo-keto reductase 1B10 as a possible biomarker for formaldehyde inhalation. This study may contribute to a better understanding of the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of formaldehyde exposure.