Network-based toxicogenomic approach to explore oral benzo(a)pyrene exposure effect on respiratory system

• Published in: Molecular & cellular toxicology Vol. 18; no. 4; pp. 521 - 529
• Main Authors: Kim, Su Ji, Shin, Dong Yeop, Jang, Yujin, Lee, Sang Min, Lee, Cheol Min, Ahn, Yeon Soon, Seo, Young Rok
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Singapore Springer Nature Singapore 01.10.2022; Springer Nature B.V; 대한독성 유전단백체 학회
• Subjects: Benzo(a)pyrene; Bioinformatics; Biomarkers; Biomedical and Life Sciences; Carcinogenicity; Cell Biology; Cyclic AMP response element-binding protein; Gene expression; Genotoxicity; Life Sciences; Original Article; Oxidative stress; Pharmacology/Toxicology; Pollutants; Pyrene; Respiratory organs; Respiratory system; 생물학; Oxidative stress; Benzo; DNA repair; Network analysis; pyrene
• ISSN: 1738-642X; 2092-8467
• DOI: 10.1007/s13273-022-00223-3

Background Benzo( a )pyrene is known as a ubiquitous environmental pollutant. The general population can be exposed to benzo( a )pyrene through ambient air, tobacco smoke, water, and food. Genotoxicity and carcinogenicity are well-known adverse effects of benzo( a )pyrene exposure. However, few studies have focused on the effects of oral benzo( a )pyrene exposure on the respiratory system in terms of gene expression profiling. Objectives We explored the effect of benzo( a )pyrene on respiratory organs through bioinformatics analysis using public gene expression data. Key genes associated with respiratory toxicity were selected through network analysis and validated by Western blot and qRT-PCR. Results NRF2-mediated oxidative stress response and CREB signaling in neurons were identified as the main canonical pathways related to benzo( a )pyrene toxicity in the respiratory system. Potential biomarkers were validated in human lung cells. Conclusion Our study suggested canonical pathways related to benzo( a )pyrene toxicity in the respiratory system and validated potential biomarkers in human lung cells.