Environmental Exposure and Cell Damage

Dear Colleagues,

Various environmental factors may adversely affect cellular structures and functions in living organisms. Key environmental elements include pollutants (such as heavy metals, pesticides, and air pollutants), radiation (ultraviolet, ionising radiation, infrared radiation (heat)), and lifestyle factors (such as smoking and a poor diet). These exposures can lead to oxidative stress, inflammation, and direct damage to cellular components, including DNA, proteins, and lipids.

Environmental exposure to pollutants can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can overwhelm the cell's antioxidant defences. Oxidative stress damage may induce mutations, loss of protein function, and membrane damage, contributing to the development of diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. Chronic exposure to pollutants can also trigger inflammatory responses. Persistent inflammation can cause tissue damage and promote the development of chronic diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and autoimmune diseases. Additionally, radiation and certain chemicals can cause direct DNA damage, leading to mutations and chromosomal abnormalities. If not properly repaired, this damage can result in cell death or the transformation of normal cells into cancerous cells. Environmental toxins can also cause protein misfolding and lipid peroxidation, disrupting cellular functions and structural integrity. This can impair cellular signalling, energy production, and membrane stability. Cells have evolved various defence mechanisms to cope with environmental stress, including the upregulation of antioxidant enzymes, DNA repair mechanisms, and activating detoxification pathways. However, prolonged or excessive exposure can overwhelm these defences, leading to cell injury or death.

In summary, environmental exposure to harmful agents can cause significant cellular damage through mechanisms involving oxidative stress, inflammation, and direct molecular damage. Understanding these processes is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate the impact of environmental hazards on human health.

Prof. Dr. Paola Piomboni
Dr. Alice Luddi
Prof. Dr. Melvin K. S. Leow
Guest Editors

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• cellular and molecular damage
• oxidative stress
• environmental effects
• endocrine disruptors
• lifestyle factors