Effects of Crystalline Silica Inhalation in a High-Fat Western Diet

Adipose tissue (AT), an endocrine organ, plays a central role in maintenance of whole-body energy homeostasis through its release of adipokines. Obesity, affecting over 40% of American adults, disrupts adipocyte metabolism leading to chronic systemic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction (MetDys). MetDys is associated with impaired lung function, pulmonary hypertension, and asthma. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of silica inhalation in a pre-existing MetDys animal model to determine if an occupational exposure of silica dust has the potential to initiate or further the progression of MetDys associated conditions.