Toxicity of particulate matter with the evaluation of oxidative potential and its effect on premature renal aging in the Metropolitan Area of São Paulo

Abstract

Chemical composition, size, and emission sources of atmospheric Particulate Matter (PM) are directly related to the generation of toxic health responses, such as oxidative stress that is assessed by the oxidative potential (PO), i.e., a measure of the biological responses caused by exposure to PM. In addition, exposure to PM may lead to the development of problems in several organs, especially the premature aging of the kidneys. Thus, this study aims to determine the oxidative and toxicological potential of fine inhalable particulate material (PM2,5) associating with its physicochemical characteristics and emission sources in the Metropolitan Area of São Paulo (MASP). Several studies on the physicochemical composition and sources of PM have been conducted in São Paulo, but its oxidative potential and the impact on the kidneys have not yet been studied. Samples of PM2.5 will be collected in body fluids and the kidneys of mice from an in vivo study to determine their impact on these animals and also in ambient air and will be analyzed to determine their mass concentration, the size distribution for mass and number, Black Carbon (BC) concentration, elemental, organic and ionic composition, and oxidative potential. Receptor models and back-trajectory statistical methods will be used to identify the emission sources and the local and long-distance contribution, respectively, based on measurements to be carried out in different places of the MASP. Therefore, we intend to assess the toxicological effects of PM in the region and to assist in the planning of policies to control and minimize air pollution in order to reduce health risks. (AU)