| Libby Amphibole (LA) asbestos exposure can lead to chronic diseases like cancer, fibrosis, and autoimmunity. To better understand the early responses that may precipitate chronic disease, our current study examines short-term effects of environmentally relevant LA exposures. Specifically, we examined markers of inflammation resolution and non-resolution within the pulmonary tract of C57BL/6 mice exposed to a very low dose of 3 µg fibers/mouse. Our data show activation of polymorphonuclear leukocytes and increased monocyte recruitment in the pleural cavity, which indicates prolonged acute inflammation. We also observed early indicators of autoimmunity and fibrosis development, indicated by increased B1a cell populations and TGF-β. Together, our findings illustrate alterations in immune activation patterns in both male and female mice, with overall increased inflammation in males. Moreover, our data suggest early immune responses to asbestos may precipitate pulmonary and pleural disease, thus supporting the idea that low-dose fiber exposures are a matter of public health concern. |