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Exposomics: mathematics meets biology.
1MRC/PHE Centre for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, Room 511 (5th floor), St Mary's Campus, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, UK p.vineis@imperial.ac.uk.
Mutagenesis
|September 16, 2015
Summary
Exposome research is yielding early results, particularly in epigenome-wide methylation studies linked to smoking. This approach integrates multiple scientific fields, promising future breakthroughs in understanding environmental influences on health.
Area of Science:
- Environmental health sciences
- Genetics and genomics
- Computational biology
Background:
- The exposome concept, encompassing total environmental exposures, is gaining traction but lacks robust proof-of-principle.
- Previous research in human and in vitro models has explored carcinogenesis mechanisms.
- Conceptual models like Cairns' stem cell division model provide a framework for understanding exposure impacts.
Discussion:
- Epigenome-wide methylation studies in smoking provide a successful example of exposome research.
- This aligns with existing human and in vitro data on cancer mechanisms and stem cell biology (Cairns' model).
Key Insights:
- Exposome research is transitioning from concept to demonstrable results.
- Epigenetic modifications, like DNA methylation, serve as valuable biomarkers for environmental exposures.
- The integration of diverse scientific disciplines is crucial for advancing exposomics.
Outlook:
- Exposomics, merging biology, mathematics, and evolutionary theory, is poised for significant breakthroughs.
- Further research will refine our understanding of environmental factors in disease etiology.
- This field offers potential for novel strategies in public health and disease prevention.
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