Toxicology of inhaled aerosol particles

The adverse health effects of airborne particles have traditionally been observed in occupational settings (e.g. mining, construction) in association with particle mass exposure levels in the mg/m3 range. More recent epidemiological studies also indicate adverse health effects, particularly in susceptible individuals, for ambient particulate matter (PM) exposure which typically occurs in the µg/m3 range. The five “d“-words, i.e. dose, deposition, dimensions, durability and defence reflect the hallmarks of toxicity for inhaled particles. Particles deposited in the airways are subject to clearance by the mucocilia…