ABSTRACT
Fine and ultra-fine particulate matter (PM) are major constituents of urban air pollution and recognized risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. This review examined the effects of PM exposure on vascular tissue. Specific mechanisms by which PM affects the vasculature include inflammation, oxidative stress, actions on vascular tone and vasomotor responses, as well as atherosclerotic plaque formation. Further, there appears to be a greater PM exposure effect on susceptible individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
Highlights
We review the current literature and outline the effects of particulate matter (PM) on vascular tissue.
PM exposure induces inflammation, vasoconstriction, oxidative stress, and atherosclerotic plaque formation.
PM exposure is particularly detrimental to individuals with underlying cardiovascular conditions.
Further studies examining the vascular effects of specific PM compositions, concentrations, and particle sizes are warranted.
Authors’ contributions
KS performed literature search and contributed to writing and revision of the manuscript. KLF, MC, AP performed section specific literature searches and contributed to writing parts and revising the manuscript. GB, HB, QL performed literature searches and helped with tables and figures preparations. TEM and CS contributed to manuscript revisions and critical comments and edits. WJM contributed to manuscript writing, revision, editing and critical assessment. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
Acknowledgments
The authors are grateful for the valuable critical comments by Caleb E. Finch (USC) and Henry J. Forman (USC).
Competing interests
No competing interests to report
Correction Statement
This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.