Review: Analytical Procedure for Dithiothreitol-based Oxidative Potential of PM2.5

Abstract

Abstract Given the associated health risks, various kinds of methods have been developed to appraise the oxidative potential of particulate matter. However, a standardized experimental approach to assessing the oxidative potential has not yet been established. Researchers need to apply reasonable approaches pertinent to the characteristics of the samples and the purposes of the respective studies and to understand the limitations of each approach. In the present study, the dithiothreitol-based analytical methods of measuring the oxidative potential of particulate matter were appraised for factors that affect the experimental results, such as the sampling substrate, extraction solution, and dithiothreitol reaction. This study reveals the limitations of each experimental approach, which stem from hydrophilic and hydrophobic characteristics, according to simulated lung fluid reactions. Analyses of a Teflon filter and simulated lung fluid were suggested as the most useful procedures based on the results of prior studies.