Epigenetics: the link between environmental exposures and autoimmune diseases
Wenhui Zhou1, Bo Zhang1, Ming Zhao1
1Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210042, China; Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research on Immune-Mediated Skin Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210042, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Institute of Dermatology, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210042, China; Department of Dermatology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China.
Current Opinion in Immunology
|June 18, 2025
Summary
Environmental factors and epigenetics significantly influence autoimmune diseases (AIDs). Understanding these interactions is key for preventing and treating AIDs effectively.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Immunology
- Epigenetics
Background:
- Autoimmune diseases (AIDs) are complex disorders with high morbidity and mortality.
- Genetic and environmental factors are implicated in AID pathogenesis.
- Epigenetics acts as a crucial link between environmental stimuli and gene expression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review environmental factors associated with AIDs.
- To explore the role of these factors in AID development and their interaction with genetics.
- To examine the influence of environmental factors on epigenetic modifications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review synthesizing recent findings on AIDs, environmental factors, and epigenetics.
- Discussion of tools for assessing causal relationships between environmental risks.
- Exploration of clinical intervention trials for disease prevention.
Main Results:
- Environmental exposures, including chemical, physical, and biologic factors, are linked to AIDs.
- Epigenetic modifications like DNA methylation, histone modifications, and microRNAs are involved.
- A knowledge gap exists regarding specific environmental agents and their epigenetic impact on AIDs.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the interplay between epigenetics and environmental risk factors is vital for AIDs.
- Precise mechanistic insights are crucial for timely prevention and improved treatment outcomes.
- Further research is needed to bridge the gap between environmental agents, epigenetics, and AIDs.
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