It has long been known that pollution from cars and trucks has negative effects on the human body. A recent study from lung specialists at the Hopkins School of Medicine demonstrates that diesel pollution can have a direct effect on inflammatory pathways in the lungs and may be linked to asthma attacks.
The researchers looked at dendritic cells, which have an important role in the immune system and are associated with inflammation. Scientists presented dendritic cells with exhaust from cars and trucks collected in the Fort McHenry tunnel in Baltimore.
Diesel exhaust stimulated dendritic cell activity in several ways. It enhanced their uptake of antigens from the environment, which is the primary function of dendritic cells. It also led to the production of increased amounts of various chemicals associated with inflammation. These chemicals are often the triggers for asthma attacks.
