Bio: Dr. Guiping Hu, Associate Professor, Doctoral Supervisor and Top Young Talent at Beihang University. As the first or corresponding author, I have published over 40 papers and secured 2 authorized patents in renowned domestic and international journals, including Environmental Science & Technology, Journal of Hazardous Materials, Medical Image Analysis, and Chinese Preventive Medicine. I have led multiple provincial and ministerial-level projects, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China, Beijing Natural Science Foundation, the General Open Project of the State Key Laboratory of Component Chinese Medicine, and the Open Fund Project of the Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution, Health, and Safety.

Abstract: Hexavalent chromate is classified as a high-priority carcinogenic pollutant, with significant adverse effects on human health, particularly the respiratory system. While studies have established a link between chromate exposure and increased respiratory diseases risk, research on the underlying mechanisms of respiratory toxicity and the identification of biomarkers for biological monitoring remains limited. Our group conducted a population survey that revealed a significant correlation between whole blood chromium levels and obstructive ventilation disorders as well as small airway injury. Prolonged exposure to elevated whole blood chromium concentrations is associated with a marked decline in lung function. Animal models of respiratory exposure further demonstrate that chronic exposure to low levels of chromate results in increased lung tissue inflammation and pulmonary fibrosis. Notably, chromate-contaminated lung tissue shows an increase in pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages, accompanied by lung tissue damage, collagen fiber deposition, emphysema-like changes, and reduced lung function. Multi-omics analysis indicates that disruptions in energy metabolism, lipid metabolism, and amino acid metabolism may be key toxic pathways involved in chromate-induced lung injury. Our study identifies multiple chromate-induced respiratory pathways and potential biomarkers, providing a scientific foundation for respiratory health monitoring and effective prevention strategies against chromate exposure.