Abstract: ObjectiveTo explore the effect of zinc oxide(ZnO)-induced IL-8 expression in human airway epithelial cells and underlying mechanisms.MethodsHuman air way epithelial cells(BEAS-2B)were employed as airway model in vitro.Expression of IL-8 mR NA and protein was determined by PCR and ELISA assay.ResultsExposure to ZnO of airway epithelial cells resulted in over expression of IL-8 mRNA and subsequent overproduction of IL-8 prote in.ZnO stimulation was shown to induce phosphorylation of EGF receptor,indicative of EGF recep tor activation.ConclusionZinc oxide exposure activates EGF receptor.Both EGF receptor and phagocytosis are involved in the regulation of ZnO-induced IL-8 expression.