Epigenetic alteration in response to particulate matter Exposures: A review on DNA methylation

Abstract

Globally, air pollution contributes to more than seven million prematuredeaths each year and is responsible for over 3% of all disability-adjusted lifeyears lost. The adverse health impacts of air pollution, especially ParticulateMatter (PM) are extensive, playing a major role in the onset and progressionof coronary artery disease, various respiratory conditions, and multiplepulmonary disorders. Despite extensive evidence documenting the healthimpacts of PM, the underlying biological mechanisms remain only partiallyelucidated. Recent advances in epigenetics, particularly studies focusingon DNA methylation, offer a promising avenue for understanding how PMexposure translates into adverse health effects. An expanding body of researchdemonstrates strong associations between PM exposure and genome-widealterations in DNA methylation, suggesting that these modifications play apivotal role in mediating the biological and health effects of PM exposure.This comprehensive review explores the intricate relationship betweenDNA methylation and PM exposure. Representative epidemiological andexperimental studies emphasize the connections between PM-inducedmethylation alterations and the indirect impact of DNA methylation onhealth. By providing valuable insights into gene-specific alterations, thereview contributes to a deeper understanding of the potential implications ofPM exposure on DNA methylation and its broader health consequences