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Epigenetic changes driven by environmental pollutants in lung carcinogenesis: a comprehensive review
Aijia Zhang1, Xuexing Luo1, Yu Li2,3
1Faculty of Humanities and Arts, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau SAR, China.
Frontiers in Public Health
|October 23, 2024
Summary
Environmental pollutants significantly impact lung cancer development through epigenetic changes. Understanding these mechanisms, including DNA methylation and miRNA alterations, is key for developing new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Area of Science:
- Environmental epigenetics
- Molecular oncology
- Cancer biomarkers
Background:
- Lung cancer is a leading global cause of mortality, with environmental pollutants as significant risk factors, particularly for non-smokers.
- Epigenetic mechanisms (DNA methylation, histone modifications, non-coding RNAs) are crucial in mediating the carcinogenic effects of environmental exposures.
- Understanding the interplay between environmental pollutants and lung cancer epigenetics is vital for disease etiology and progression research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize existing literature on the influence of environmental pollutants on lung cancer epigenetics.
- To identify potential epigenetic biomarkers for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.
- To highlight the need for broader demographic representation in research and explore novel epigenetic therapies.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted across major scientific databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase).
- Screening and selection of 3,254 publications, with 22 high-quality studies included for in-depth analysis.
- Review focused on epigenetic alterations induced by environmental pollutants in lung cancer.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic markers, including DNA methylation patterns (e.g., F2RL3, AHRR) and miRNA expression profiles, show promise as lung cancer biomarkers.
- Environmental pollutants can induce aberrant epigenetic changes contributing to lung cancer development.
- Research needs to diversify beyond homogenous groups to enhance clinical relevance and personalized medicine.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic alterations are critical mediators of environmental pollutant-induced lung cancer.
- Epigenetic biomarkers offer potential for improved lung cancer diagnosis and treatment strategies.
- Innovative epigenetic therapies (e.g., demethylating drugs, miRNA therapies) hold promise for countering carcinogenic effects and advancing lung cancer management.
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