Association between indoor PM_2.5 components and accelerated biological aging in schizophrenia patients: Evidence from...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Gerontology
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Indoor fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is a significant health concern, especially for vulnerable populations like schizophrenia patients.
• The specific components of PM2.5 that contribute to accelerated aging are not well understood.
• Schizophrenia patients often have prolonged exposure to indoor environments, increasing their risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between PM2.5 components and accelerated biological aging in schizophrenia patients.
• To identify specific PM2.5 components linked to accelerated aging.
• To explore the role of serum metabolites and gut microbiota in this process.

Main Methods:

• Prospective, repeated-measurement study involving 104 schizophrenia patients.
• Analysis of PM2.5 components and their association with biological aging markers.
• Multivariate analysis of serum glycerophospholipid metabolites and gut microbiota (Dorea, Blautia).
• Mediation analysis using the Klemera-Doubal method to assess the role of the Blautia-PC pathway.

Main Results:

• PM2.5 component exposure was significantly associated with accelerated biological aging in schizophrenia patients.
• Thallium, chromium, lead, antimony, selenium, and manganese showed the most prominent effects.
• PM2.5 exposure altered serum glycerophospholipid metabolites, contributing to aging.
• Gut microbiota, particularly Blautia, played a mediating role in the effects of manganese on immune biological aging.

Conclusions:

• Exposure to specific indoor PM2.5 components accelerates biological aging in schizophrenia patients.
• Alterations in serum metabolites and gut microbiota are implicated mechanisms.
• Findings highlight the need to control pollution sources and improve air quality to protect vulnerable populations.