EFFECTS OF METAL-RICH PARTICULATE MATTER EXPOSURE ON EXOSOME- ASSOCIATED MICRORNAS.

Background and Aims: Epidemiological studies have reported an increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) in relation to exposure to metal-rich particulate matter. Cell-derived membrane vesicles (exosomes) are released in plasma and transfer microRNAs. Exosomes might mediate the effects of air pollution, since potentially they could be produced by the respiratory system, reach the systemic circulation and lead to the development of CVD. The aim of the present study was to identify effects of exposure to metal-rich particulate matter on exosomes-associated microRNAs expression in workers of an electric furnace steel plant with well characterized exposure. Methods: Plasma exosomes were isolated by ultracentrifuge from 55 steel workers on the first day of a workweek (baseline) and after three days of work (post-exposure). We measured the expression of the 88 most abundantly expressed and best characterized micro RNA sequences by SYBR green chemistry. The relative expression of miRNAs was measured by real...