Leire de Campos Mata

Air pollutants, particularly particulate matter (PM), pose a major health risk by infiltrating the body and accumulating in peripheral organs, including immune organs. Our research detected PM in organs relevant to immune B cell function. However, the link between PM exposure and B cell-mediated immunity is limited to epidemiological observations. The purpose of this project is to study the effects of PM on human B cell responses through evaluation of postmortem lung-associated tissues with signs of PM exposure. Specifically, we will examine whether lifelong exposure to PM correlates with changes in lymphoid tissue integrity and B cell profiles by immunophenotyping and spatial transcriptomics. Additionally, we will study how PM influences B cell responses to antigens in vitro, unraveling potential links to immune-related disorders. Last, we aim to identify B cell activation pathways affected by PM using molecular techniques. This study contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), by aiming to characterize the polarization of B cells in the pathologic response to PM and by identifying potential drug targets that modulate immune responses in regions affected by air pollution (Target 3.9). By advancing our understanding of environmental immunology and its clinical significance, this project aims to inform public health strategies to mitigate the health risks associated with air pollution.