Grantee Research Project Results
2003 Progress Report: Air Pollution and Human Vascular Dysfunction: Mechanism and Mediators
EPA Grant Number: CR830837Title: Air Pollution and Human Vascular Dysfunction: Mechanism and Mediators
Investigators: Brook, Robert D. , Keeler, Gerald J. , Brook, Jeffrey R. , Dvonch, Joseph T. , Silverman, Frances , Vincent, Renaud , Rajagopalan, Sanjay
Institution: University of Michigan , Health Canada - Ottawa , Environment Canada , University of Toronto
Current Institution: University of Michigan , Health Canada - Ottawa , University of Toronto
EPA Project Officer: Chung, Serena
Project Period: May 1, 2003 through April 30, 2006 (Extended to April 30, 2008)
Project Period Covered by this Report: May 1, 2003 through April 30, 2004
Project Amount: $1,050,000
RFA: Airborne Particulate Matter Health Effects: Cardiovascular Mechanisms (2002) RFA Text | Recipients Lists
Research Category: Human Health , Particulate Matter , Air
Objective:
Short-term exposure to concentrated ambient fine particulate air pollution (CAP) plus ozone causes acute conduit artery vasoconstriction and increases the risk for acute myocardial infarction. This abrupt alteration in vascular tone is likely an important biological mechanism linking air pollution exposure with acute cardiovascular events. The objectives of this research project are to:
- elucidate the underlying patho-physiological mechanisms linking air pollution with impaired arterial reactivity;
- determine the significance of the air pollution-mediated arterial vasoconstriction on systemic hemodynamics and blood pressure;
- and identify the specific air pollution components responsible for the detrimental impact on human vascular function.
Progress Summary:
This research project is divided into two parts. Part 1 is the investigation of the mechanisms of acute vascular dysfunction related to exposure to CAP and ozone. In particular, the roles played by oxidative stress (impact of vitamin C pre-treatment) and endothelins (effect of bosentan pre-treatment) are being evaluated. We have purchased the necessary equipment and made final modifications, testing, and validation of the newly designed mobile human exposure facility (AirCare1). Thirteen subjects have been enrolled (three exposures each) for a total of 29 exposures completed. Specific outcomes regarding vascular endothelial function, 24-hour blood pressure, platelet aggregation, inflammatory biomarkers, and arterial compliance have been collected.
Part 2 of the research project is the investigation of the specific air pollutant mediators of adverse cardiovascular responses. To date, 10 subjects almost have completed 4 exposures each to CAP, filtered air, CAP plus ozone, and ozone alone. Participant recruitment and human exposures continue in both projects.
Future Activities:
We are performing the exposures for both Part 1 and 2 of the project and continuing to collect information on the biological responses and characterizations of pollutants. This will continue throughout the next 2 years of funding until a total of 350 exposures (both sites) are completed.
Journal Articles:
No journal articles submitted with this report: View all 5 publications for this projectSupplemental Keywords:
endothelium, atherosclerosis, concentrated ambient air, air pollution, ozone, health effects, particulate matter, health risk assessment, cardiovascular disease, cardiovascular vulnerability, human exposure, particulates, airborne particulate matter,, RFA, Scientific Discipline, Health, Air, particulate matter, Health Risk Assessment, Risk Assessments, Biochemistry, atmospheric particulate matter, particulates, human health effects, PM 2.5, airway disease, ozone, airborne particulate matter, cardiovascular vulnerability, air pollution, human exposure, vascular dysfunction, cardiovascular diseaseRelevant Websites:
http://www.med.umich.edu/endothelial/index.htm Exit
Progress and Final Reports:
Original AbstractThe perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.