Recent Insights into Particulate Matter (PM2.5)-Mediated Toxicity in Humans: An Overview

Abstract

Several epidemiologic and toxicological studies have commonly viewed ambient fine particulate matter (PM_2.5), defined as particles having an aerodynamic diameter of less than 2.5 µm, as a significant potential danger to human health. PM_2.5 is mostly absorbed through the respiratory system, where it can infiltrate the lung alveoli and reach the bloodstream. In the respiratory system, reactive oxygen or nitrogen species (ROS, RNS) and oxidative stress stimulate the generation of mediators of pulmonary inflammation and begin or promote numerous illnesses. According to the most recent data, fine particulate matter, or PM_2.5, is responsible for nearly 4 million deaths globally from cardiopulmonary illnesses such as heart disease, respiratory infections, chronic lung disease, cancers, preterm births, and other illnesses. There has been increased worry in recent years about the negative impacts of this worldwide danger. The causal associations between PM_2.5 and human health, the toxic effects and potential mechanisms of PM_2.5, and molecular pathways have been described in this review.

Keywords: COVID; H1N1; PM2.5; SARS; air pollution; health effects; particulate matter.

Figure 1

Systematic screening process of literature review.

Figure 2

Illustration of underlying mechanisms of PM_2.5-induced COPD and asthma.

Figure 3

Biological pathways whereby PM particles promote cardiovascular impairments.

Figure 4

Potential molecular pathways in air pollution–related lung cancer.

Figure 5

Effects of air pollution on the nervous system and its possible role in neurodegenerative disorders.