Climate Change, Epigenetics, Microbiota, and Health

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Molecular Biology
• Public Health

Background:

• Climate change accelerates, posing significant threats to human health.
• Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), like cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, are exacerbated by climate-related environmental stressors.
• Vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected by amplified air pollution and toxins.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the complex pathways linking climate stressors to adverse health outcomes.
• To investigate the intermediary roles of epigenetic modifications and microbiota alterations.
• To highlight the need for identifying biomarkers and informing public health policies.

Main Methods:

• This is a narrative review.
• The review synthesizes current research on molecular mechanisms.
• It focuses on epigenetic processes (DNA methylation, histone modifications) and microbiota changes.

Main Results:

• Environmental exposures linked to climate change can alter gene expression via epigenetic mechanisms.
• Pollutants and temperature fluctuations can disrupt microbiota, promoting inflammation and immune dysfunction.
• These molecular pathways mediate the link between climate change and NCDs.

Conclusions:

• Understanding epigenetic and microbiota alterations is crucial for targeted interventions against climate-sensitive diseases.
• Epigenetic and microbiota biomarkers are important for early risk stratification.
• A transdisciplinary, One Health approach is vital for addressing health inequalities and climate change impacts.