PM10 Associated Heavy Metals Interference with Olfactory Enzymes: Evidence from Air Sampling and Molecular Docking Studies

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Published: Apr 1, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.29070/e8jn8z45
Keywords:
PM10, heavy metals, olfactory enzymes, molecular docking, neurotoxicity, air pollution

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Authors

Dr. Anindita Bhattacharya

Professor & Head, Department of Chemistry, Christ Church College, Kanpur, CSJM University, Kanpur, U.P.

Sonam Tripathi

Resarch Scholar, Department of Chemistry, Christ Church College Kanpur, CSJM University Kanpur, U.P.

Aditi Yadav

Resarch Scholar, Department of Chemistry, P.P.N College Kanpur, CSJM University, Kanpur, U.P.

Abstract

Airborne particulate matter (PM10) serves as a primary carrier for heavy metals in urban environments, posing significant threats to human health through respiratory and neurological pathways. The olfactory system represents a direct route for heavy metal entry into the central nervous system, bypassing the blood-brain barrier. This study investigates the interference of PM10-associated heavy metals with key olfactory enzymes through environmental sampling and molecular docking analysis. Air samples were collected from three urban locations in Kanpur, India between November 2024 and January 2025. Heavy metal concentrations were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Molecular docking studies examined interactions between heavy metals (Cd²⁺, Ni²⁺, Pb²⁺, Hg²⁺) and three critical enzymes: cytochrome P450 (PDB ID: 1OG5), aldehyde dehydrogenase (PDB ID: 1O01), and monoamine oxidase (PDB ID: 1GOS).


Lead (Pb) concentrations ranged from 10.2-19.2 μg/m3across sampling sites, with P. Road showing the highest levels. Molecular docking revealed Pb²⁺ exhibited the strongest binding affinity across all enzymes (docking scores: 7.665-8.806), followed by Cd²⁺ (5.097-6.057), Ni²⁺ (4.375-5.626), and Hg²⁺ (3.907-5.914). Statistical analysis demonstrated significant correlations between metal concentrations and binding affinities. PM10-associated heavy metals demonstrate substantial potential for olfactory enzyme interference, with lead emerging as the most concerning neurotoxic threat. These findings underscore the urgent need for air quality management strategies targeting heavy metal emissions.

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Vol. 22 No. 2 (2025): Journal of Advances in Science and Technology (JAST)

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