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