Air pollution and alveolar health.

Exposure to air pollution has been associated with up to 9 million premature deaths per year worldwide, with the respiratory system a key site for its effects. Air pollution exposure is a well-established risk factor for the development and exacerbation of airways diseases and lung cancer, however relatively little is known regarding the risks associated with air pollution interacting with areas of gas exchange - the alveoli and pulmonary interstitium. In recent years, evidence has emerged identifying a role in the development and progression of sub-clinical interstitial lung abnormalities as well as progression and risk of exacerbation of fibrotic interstitial lung diseases.

Copper-enriched automotive brake wear particles perturb human alveolar cellular homeostasis.

Background: Airborne fine particulate matter with diameter < 2.5 μm (PM2.5), can reach the alveolar regions of the lungs, and is associated with over 4 million premature deaths per year worldwide.