HONG KONG, Aug. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- A research team led by Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) has discovered that phosphocholine, an important component in the body's metabolism, could counteract the adverse effects of PM2.5 toxicity on lung cells. This discovery highlights the therapeutic potential of phosphocholine in treating lung diseases associated with PM2.5 such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer, and contributes to developing health measures against air pollution.
The research findings have been published in the international academic journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
PM2.5 increases health risks
The World Health Organisation has linked air pollution to an estimated seven million deaths annually, and recognising it as the leading environmental risk factor globally. PM2.5, a major air pollutant, increases the risk of health problems such as heart and lung diseases. Every type of PM2.5 component possesses distinct impacts on human health. However, the understanding of the toxicity effects of individual PM2.5 components remains limited, and the respective preventive solutions for PM2.5-associated health problems are lacking.
To understand the effects of different PM2.5 components on the underlying cell metabolism associated with lung diseases, a team led by Professor Cai Zongwei, Chair Professor of the Department of Chemistry and Director of the State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, and Dr Yang Zhu, Assistant Professor of the Department of Biology at HKBU, analysed a total of 82 components in PM2.5 samples collected from Taiyuan in Shanxi Province and Guangzhou in Guangdong Province between 2017 and 2018.
It was found that the overall PM2.5 profiles were similar in both cities. Inorganic ions are the most abundant pollutants, followed by metals and organic compounds polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). However, a large difference was observed in the relative proportions of PAHs and their derivatives.
PM2.5 composition contributes to toxicity
The research team discovered that the proportion of PAHs was significantly higher in Taiyuan, especially during the heating season. Since the abundance of PAHs is closely associated with coal combustion, the result suggested that coal combustion was one of the major sources of PM2.5 in the city. Conversely, the seasonal variance of PAHs in Guangzhou was significantly lower. Traffic emissions were the predominant PM2.5 in Guangzhou.
Given the disparity in pollutant composition, the research team conducted toxicity and health risk analysis of PM2.5 samples from both cities. A cytotoxicity test revealed that the PM2.5 from winter Taiyuan exhibited much stronger toxicity than the samples from Guangzhou or from other seasons of Taiyuan with the same PM2.5 concentration, as indicated by cell viability which measures the proportion of healthy living cells. Assessment using the incremental lifetime cancer risk model, which estimates increased cancer risk from carcinogen exposure, highlighted that the regional difference in cancer risks linked to PAHs and its derivatives nitro-PAHs' concentration was much higher than the variation in overall PM2.5 concentration. These findings underscore that PM2.5 toxicity cannot be solely attributed to its concentration but also to its composition.
Phosphocholine counteracts PM2.5 toxicity
The research team further employed correlation analysis to examine the impact of specific PM2.5 components on metabolic alterations in lung cells, and identified 11 metabolites that showed a significant correlation with PM2.5 components. Among these metabolites, the researchers focused on the functions of eight ones whose amount reduced significantly after PM2.5 exposure. Subsequent experiments demonstrated that only supplementing phosphocholine to PM2.5-exposed cells was effective in both rescuing cell viability and stimulating adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production. ATP is a critical molecule for energy storage, which provides the energy needed for a wide range of cellular processes within living cells.
Under normal circumstances, lung cells primarily rely on glucose for energy production. However, PM2.5 conditions might impair energy supply from glucose. Fatty acid oxidation is a process in cells that breaks down fatty acids to generate energy. Under normal conditions, the utilisation of fatty acid oxidation pathway contributes minimally to energy production in lung cells. It was found that phosphocholine can reprogramme cellular metabolism to increase fatty acid oxidation to meet the shortfall in energy supply during the PM2.5 challenge, which helps to alleviate cellular dysfunction induced by PM2.5.
Professor Cai said: "Our findings highlighted the potential of phosphocholine as a therapeutic agent for lung diseases associated with PM2.5. As air pollution caused by PM2.5 has been recognised as a significant global health risk factor, our discovery provides the prospect of developing novel treatments for related health issues, potentially helping to address this public health challenge."
In future, the research may also contribute to the development of diagnosis protocol for lung diseases caused by PM2.5 apart from its potential as a therapeutic agent.
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HKBU research identifies potential of phosphocholine in counteracting PM2.5 toxicity in lung diseases
Officially Licensed Fortnite Edition Mobile Controllers Deliver Console-Level Precision and Premium Collectible Designs
ORLANDO, Fla., Sept. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- GameSir, a global leader in gaming peripherals, announced its collaboration with Fortnite, introducing an all-new collection of officially licensed mobile controllers that combine GameSir's award-winning technology with one of the world's most iconic games.
Launching with the GameSir G8 Plus Fortnite Edition and GameSir X5 Lite for XBOX Fortnite Edition, the collection is designed for mobile players who demand more from every match. Featuring premium controller technology that delivers console inspired performance, authentic Fortnite-inspired designs, and an in-game bonus item with every controller, the collection delivers an experience that extends well beyond the hardware.
Facilitated by IMG Licensing, the collaboration brings console-quality precision, comfort, and customization to mobile gaming—whether players are dropping into Battle Royale, Zero Build, Reload, or developer-made games.
"Fortnite has built one of the most passionate communities in gaming, and we're honored to collaborate on products worthy of that community," said Eric Bright, Vice President of Partnerships & Product Strategy, North America at GameSir. "Our goal wasn't simply to build another controller. We wanted to create the ultimate Fortnite experience—from the premium hardware to the authentic character-inspired designs."
"Fortnite continues to set the standard for how gaming brands connect with players through innovative products and meaningful experiences," said Louie Sandoval, Vice President of Global Gaming at IMG Licensing. "GameSir has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality gaming peripherals, making them an outstanding partner for this collaboration. We're excited to see Fortnite fans around the world experience this collection."
GameSir G8 Plus – Fortnite Edition
The flagship controller for players seeking the ultimate competitive experience.
- Drift-resistant Hall Effect sticks for lasting precision
- Mappable rear buttons for faster edits and personalized controls
- Console-inspired ergonomics for extended gaming sessions
- Multi-platform compatibility across today's leading gaming devices
- Fortnite-inspired artwork and premium collectible packaging
- Fortnite digital in-game bonus item included with every controller. Depending on which controller, players will get the Bully Emote, Burpee Emote, Gun Show Emote,Page-Turner Emote, Go! Go! Go! Emote, or Harmony Emote with their purchase.
GameSir X5 Lite for XBOX – Fortnite Edition
Designed for Fortnite wherever life takes you.
- Ultra-lightweight portable design
- Responsive wired performance
- Comfortable controls optimized for mobile gameplay
- Fortnite-inspired styling
- Fortnite digital in-game bonus item included with every controller. Depending on which controller, players will get the Extra Cheese Glider, Storm Sigil Glider, Cerberus Glider, Snow Squall Glider, or On Your Mark… Emote with their purchase.
Choose Your Legend
Fortnite has always been about expressing your unique style. Whether it's your outfit, your loadout, or your strategy, every player leaves their own mark on the Island.
The GameSir Fortnite Collection celebrates that individuality with collectible character-inspired editions built for every type of player. Whether you choose the flagship G8 Plus, the ultra-portable X5 Lite for XBOX, or your favorite Fortnite character edition, every controller delivers the premium performance GameSir is known for.
Coming Soon
The GameSir Fortnite Collection launches this fall through GameSir.com and select retail partners worldwide, including Amazon, Best Buy, AliExpress, TikTok Shop and Walmart.
Additional product details, pricing, launch timing, and the included digital in-game bonus will be announced soon.
Follow GameSir on X, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Discord, and Reddit for launch updates, creator reveals, livestreams, gameplay demonstrations, and community events.
Join the conversation using:
#PlayFortnite
#ChooseYourLegend
#MyGameSir
About GameSir
GameSir is one of the fastest-growing gaming peripheral brands in the world, delivering award-winning controllers and accessories designed for mobile, PC, console, and cloud gaming. Known for pioneering Hall Effect technology, innovative product design, and strategic collaborations with the world's leading gaming and entertainment brands, GameSir creates premium hardware that helps players perform at their best while bringing their favorite gaming experiences to life.
Trusted by millions of players worldwide, GameSir partners with many of the world's leading entertainment and gaming brands to create officially licensed products that blend iconic franchises with industry-leading hardware. With a commitment to innovation, quality, and accessibility, GameSir empowers players of every skill level to play with confidence—whether at home, on the go, or on the competitive stage.
To learn more, visit www.gamesir.com or follow GameSir on X, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Discord, and Reddit.
About IMG Licensing
IMG Licensing is the global leader in brand licensing, managing licensing programs for the world's best-known brands and trademarks. With over 25 offices worldwide, IMG Licensing provides a unique one-stop-solution for innovative brand growth across a diverse portfolio of clients from business, entertainment, fashion, food, gaming and sports. IMG Licensing is part of WME Group, a global network of businesses that represent the world's leading talent, intellectual property, and brands. For more information, visit imglicensing.com.
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GameSir Announces Official Fortnite Mobile Controller Collection
