Transcriptomic Profiling of Human Corneal Epithelial Cells Exposed to Airborne Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5)

Objectives: To explore the molecular mechanisms of PM2.5-induced dysfunction in human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs). Methods: RNA-Seq was performed to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in PM2.5-exposed HCECs compared to unexposed condition, which was followed by validation via real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Results: A total of 434 DEGs—240 up-regulated and 194 down-regulated—were identified in PM2.5-exposed HCECs rather than unexposed HCECs. The expression of a few genes related to proliferation, inflammation, and aryl hydrocarbon stimulation were significantly altered by PM2.5 exposure, which may contribute to PM2.5-related corneal diseases. Conclusion: The present study identified the altered expression of hundreds of genes in HCECs exposed to PM2.5, which suggests the importance of PM2.5 for cornea health. To perform the transcriptomic analysis of PM2.5-exposed human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs) versus unexposed HCECs. The PM2.5-exposed HCECs group and the control groups contained 3 replicats each.