Work

Systemic cytokine signatures associated with volcanic emisions exposure and respiratory disease after the cumbre vieja eruption-ashes project

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: In September 2021, the eruption of the Tajogaite volcano on La Palma (Spain) released large amounts of toxic gases and particulate matter over three months. This study, part of the ASHES Project, analyses the serum cytokine profile and its relationship with exposure to these pollutants in general population, asthma patients, and occupationally exposed workers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 102 participants (69 women; median age 50 years) were included. Structured interviews were conducted, and serum samples were collected to quantify 48 biomarkers related to TH1, TH2, and TH17 inflammatory responses (Olink®). Participants were classified into three groups: healthy population (n = 66), occupationally exposed workers (n = 13), and asthmatic patients (n = 23). Comparisons were performed between healthy population vs. asthmatics and healthy population vs. occupational group. RESULTS: Occupationally exposed workers showed the highest exposure (median 10 h), compared with 6 h in the healthy population and 5 h in asthmatics (p = 0.006). This group, with highest exposure, had increased levels of IL-2, IL-7, IL-17A, and IL-17F compared with the general population. Asthmatic patients showed higher levels of IL-2, IL-7, TNFSF12, CXCL10, IL-17C, CCL3, and CCL4, and lower levels of IL-15 and MMP12 (p < 0.05). A strong positive correlation between IL-4 and exposure time (r = 0.7935, p < 0.0001), and negative correlations with CCL8, CXCL11, and TNF-α were observed in asthmatics. CONCLUSIONS: Volcanic emissions are associated with exposure- and disease-dependent immune responses. Asthmatics show heightened TH1/TH2/TH17 activation, while highly exposed workers display a TH17-skewed profile, with the general population maintaining a balanced response, suggesting greater vulnerability in asthma patients.

Source: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety

DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2026.120950