Impact of PM _2.5 filter extraction solvent on oxidative potential and chemical analysis

Fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) is hypothesized to induce oxidative stress, and has been linked to acute and chronic adverse health effects. To better understand the risks and underlying mechanisms following exposure, PM_2.5 is collected onto filters but prior to toxicological analysis, particles must be removed from filters. There is no standard method for filter extraction, which creates the possibility that the methods of extraction selected can alter the chemical composition and ultimately the biological implications. In this study, comparisons were made between extraction solvents (methanol (MeOH), dichloromethane (DCM), 0.9% saline, and Milli-Q water) and the results of oxidative potential and elemental concentration analysis of PM_2.5 collected across sites in Arkansas, USA. Significant differences were observed between solvents, with DCM having significantly different results compared to all other extraction solvents (<i>p</i> ≤ 0.001). Significant correlations between element, black carbon, and PM_2.5 concentrations and oxidative potential were observed. The observed correlations were extraction solvent dependent. For example, in saline extracted samples, oxidative potential had significant negative correlations with: Ba, Cd, Ce, Co, Ga, Mn and significant positive correlations with: Cr, Ni, Th, U. While in MeOH extracted samples, significant positive correlations were only between oxidative potential and Ga, U and significant negative correlations with V. This indicates that PM_2.5 samples extracted with different solvents will yield different conclusions about the causal components. This study highlights the importance of filter extraction methods in interpretation of oxidative potential results and comparisons between studies.<i>Implications:</i> While there is no standard method for PM_2.5 filter extraction, variation of extraction methods impact analytical results. This project identifies that extraction method variation, particularly extraction solvent selection, leads to discrepancies in chemical and toxicological analysis for PM_2.5 collected on the same filter. This work highlights the need for methods standardization to support accurate comparisons between PM_2.5 research studies, thus providing better understanding of PM_2.5 across the globe.