Ozone Exposure Induces Prediabetic Symptoms Through Hepatic Glycogen Metabolism and Insulin Resistance

(1) Background: Epidemiological studies link ozone (O₃) exposure to diabetes risk, but mechanisms and early biomarkers remain unclear. (2) Methods: Female mice exposed to 0.5/1.0 ppm O₃ were assessed for glucose tolerance and HOMA (homeostasis model assessment) index. Genes related to impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance were screened through the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD), and verified using quantitative real-time PCR. In addition, liver histopathological observations and the determination of basic biochemical indicators were conducted, and targeted metabolomics analysis was performed on the liver to verify glycogen levels and gene expression. In vitro validation was conducted with HepG2 and Min6 cell lines. (3) Results: Fasting blood glucose and insulin resistance were elevated following O₃ exposure. Given that the liver plays a critical role in glucose metabolism, we further investigated hepatocyte apoptosis and alterations in glycogen metabolism, including reduced glycogen levels and genetic dysregulation. Metabolomics analysis revealed abnormalities in fructose metabolism and glycogen synthesis in the livers of the O₃-exposed group. In vitro studies demonstrated that oxidative stress enhances both liver cell apoptosis and insulin resistance in pancreatic islet β cells. (4) Conclusions: O₃ triggers prediabetes symptoms via hepatic metabolic dysfunction and hepatocyte apoptosis. The identified metabolites and genes offer potential as early biomarkers and therapeutic targets.