DIESEL particulate exposed macrophages alter endothelial cell expression of eNOS, iNOS, MCP1, and glutathione synthesis genes

► Diesel exhaust particulate (DEP) has been suggested to traverse alveolar barriers. ► But, DEP vascular effects may be related to the release of inflammatory cytokines. ► We found that direct DEP exposure to endothelium perturbed cell function. ► Endothelial responses were greater when co-cultured with DEP exposed macrophages. ► DEP vascular effects are likely due to release of soluble factors by macrophages.