Evaluation of cell viability of BEAS-2B cells exposed to Diesel Exhaust Particulate (DEP) and microplastics (Mps)

• Grant number: 24/20468-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: May 01, 2025
• End date: December 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Biology
• Principal Investigator: Regiani Carvalho de Oliveira
• Grantee: Andressa Caroline Ribeiro Silva
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina (FM). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 21/10724-2 - Evaluation of the effects of secondary microplastics on the respiratory system of BALBc mice and on human bronchial epithelial cell culture BEAS-2B, AP.R

Abstract

Air pollution, especially in urban and industrialized areas, is responsible for several serious diseases, including cancer, lung, and cardiovascular problems. Among the most concerning pollutants are ultrafine particles (UFPs), which may originate from natural or industrial sources or derive from human activities, such as soot from diesel engines. Recently, microplastics (MPs)-plastic fragments smaller than 5 mm-have been detected in the atmosphere, raising concerns about their impacts on the respiratory system. MPs can accumulate in the lungs, resist biodegradation, and cause chronic inflammation.Diesel Exhaust Particulate (DEP) is one of the most toxic sources of urban particulate matter, with the ability to penetrate cellular barriers and induce inflammation. When combined with MPs, they may exacerbate respiratory system changes.This project aims to investigate the biological effects of MPs (mainly secondary microplastics) and DEP, both separately and together, on BEAS-2B lung epithelial cells. The goal is to evaluate the risks to the respiratory airway epithelium and investigate potential synergies between these polluting particles. (AU)