Cytotoxicity Assessment of Sodium Chromate on Human Alveolar Type II Epithelial Cells

초록

Chromium(VI) (Cr(VI)) compounds are widely utilized in various industries as a wood preservative and corrosion inhibitor. Given that inhalation of Cr(VI) substances, commonly referred to as hexavalent chromium, particularly in occupational settings, has been related to an increased risk of respiratory diseases, including pulmonary fibrosis, chronic bronchitis, and lung cancer. This study investigates the cytotoxic effects of among the hexavalent chromium sodium chromate (Na2CrO4) on human alveolar type II epithelial cells, A549 cells. A549 cells were cultured and treated with varying concentrations of Na2CrO4 (0-1 µg/mL) for 1 to 4 days. Cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay, which revealed a dose-dependent decrease in cell viability. The production of nitric oxide (NO), a marker of oxidative stress, was measured using a modified Griess method, indicating increased NO levels upon Na2CrO4 exposure. Real-time PCR was utilized to analyze the expression of genes associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and fibrosis, showing significant upregulation in the MMP family in response to Na2CrO4. Western blot analysis further confirmed the EMT and fibrosis-related proteins. These findings underscore the detrimental impact of Na2CrO4 on lung epithelial cells, highlighting the need for stringent safety measures to mitigate exposure risks. This study contributes to the understanding of Na2CrO4-induced cytotoxicity and its implications for respiratory health, particularly in occupational environments where exposure is prevalent.

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