Integrated proteomic and metabolomic analysis to assess the effects of pure and benzo[a]pyrene-loaded carbon black particles on energy metabolism and motility in the human endothelial cell line EA.hy926.

Epidemiological studies suggest that environmental exposure to airborne particulate matter may promote cardiovascular diseases; however, it is not clear whether this observation actually reflects exposure to nanosized particles in the environment. In the present study, the human endothelial cell line EA.hy926 was exposed to pure carbon black and, to mimic exposure to diesel exhaust, carbon black loaded with benzo[a]pyrene to ascertain effects of these particles on the cell proteome and metabolom. Particular emphasis was laid on an extended exposure period (14 days) and a low particle concentration (100 ng/mL). While ROS production essentially remained unaffected, exposure of the cells to the particles resulted in a significantly enhanced cell proliferation. Evaluation of the obtained proteomic and phosphoproteomic data revealed modulations of proteins involved in catalytic processes and cytoskeleton maintenance. The bioinformatic evaluation of the data revealed the possible involvement of the transcription factor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma. The further analysis of the cytoskeleton indicated changes of the cell motility, which is in agreement with an observed increase in the cellular migration and invasion, and macroscopic changes of the cytoskeleton of the exposed cells.