Pollutant-Induced DNA Damage
摘要
The presence of pollutants in our environment has become a significant concern for human health and well-being. Numerous studies have shown a strong association between exposure to environmental pollutants and increased risk of cancer. One of the key mechanisms by which pollutants contribute to tumor formation is through inducing DNA damage. This chapter reviews the mechanisms underlying pollutant-induced DNA damage and its consequences in cancer development. It explores various classes of pollutants, including carcinogens, mutagens, and genotoxic substances, and their ability to initiate DNA damage. Also, this chapter reviews the intricate processes by which pollutants interact with cellular DNA, leading to various types of DNA lesions, such as DNA adducts, single-strand breaks (SSBs), and double-strand breaks (DSBs). It discusses the role of oxidative stress, activation of phase I and phase II detoxification enzymes, and the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in pollutant-induced DNA damage. Additionally, the chapter tries to show the importance of the consequences of pollutant-induced DNA damage in initiating genomic instability, promoting mutations, and altering key cellular pathways involved in cell cycle control, apoptosis, and DNA repair. It also explores the potential long-term effects of pollutant exposure on epigenetic modifications and their role in cancer development. Overall, this chapter provides valuable insights into the mechanisms by which pollutants induce DNA damage and the subsequent consequences in cancer development. Understanding these processes is essential for the development of effective strategies to mitigate the detrimental effects of environmental pollutants on human health.