In our latest study we quantified for the first time the systemic redistribution of crystalline silica particles deposited in the lungs of mice, using an innovative approach based on ICP-MS spectroscopy. Specifically, we demonstrated that 30% of inhaled crystalline particles translocate into extrapulmonary sites including immune organs – such as the liver (13%), spleen (2%), lymph nodes (12%) – and the kidneys (1.7%). Beyond offering new insight into the mechanisms underlying the organ-specific biodistribution of inhaled silica particles, our study provided an updated perspective on the systemic toxicity of silica, which is potentially implicated in the pathogenesis of some autoimmune disorders. From an occupational viewpoint, our findings suggest that biomonitoring silicon (Si) levels in urine and blood could serve as a valuable biomarker for assessing the exposure to silica-based mineral dusts in workplace settings.
You can find the publication here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412025002247