Nanoparticle effects on airway epithelial cell function in asthma
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The effect of nanoparticles on in-vitro airway epithelial cell function in children and adults with and without asthma
IRAS ID
128365
Contact name
Garry Walsh
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Aberdeen
Research summary
The UK Government has prioritised the quantification of risks associated with nanoparticles (NP). Potential NP adverse effects on the lungs are a cause for concern particularly in asthma. Our hypothesis is that bronchial airway epithelial cell (AEC) function in-vitro will be altered by exposure to NP, with greater effects in AEC derived from children and adults with asthma. AEC sampled from adults and children with or without asthma undergoing day-case surgery or elective bronchoscopy will be cultured and NP originating from vehicle emissions (cerium, vanadium, zinc) will be added to doses representative of ’real-life’. Electron microscopy will characterise cellular uptake and trafficking. Cellular responses to NP (viability, proliferation, oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory mediator production) will be characterised. Increased understanding of NP action on AEC function would provide important information on their potential adverse effects informing risk assessments in collaboration with relevant stakeholders from the motor vehicle industry and government.
REC name
North of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 1
REC reference
13/NS/0066
Date of REC Opinion
11 Jul 2013
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion