epigenetic alteration in response to particulate matter exposures: a review on dna methylation

Globally, air pollution is responsible for over 7 million premature deaths annually and accounts for more than 3% of disability-adjusted life years lost. the harmful effects of air pollution, particularly particulate matter (pm), are far-reaching, significantly contributing to the prevalence and progression of coronary artery disease, respiratory illnesses, and lung disorders. although the adverse health consequences of pm are well-documented, the precise biological mechanisms driving these outcomes remain incompletely understood. in recent years, the field of epigenetics has shed light on pm-induced epigenetic changes, with a focus on dna methylation, providing a promising framework for exploring these mechanisms. a growing body of evidence highlights the strong association between pm exposure and alterations in dna methylation patterns across the genome, suggesting that these modifications play a pivotal role in mediating the biological and health effects of pm exposure. this comprehensive review explores the intricate relationship between dna methylation and pm exposure. representative epidemiological and experimental studies emphasize the connections between pm-induced methylation alterations and the indirect impact of dna methylation on health. by providing valuable insights into gene-specific alterations, the review contributes to a deeper understanding of the potential implications of pm exposure on dna methylation and its broader health consequences.