Xenobiotic Toxicants and Particulate Matter: Effects, Mechanisms, Impacts on Human Health, and Mitigation Strategies
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Particulate matter (PM), a complex mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets, originates from both natural sources, such as sand, pollen, and marine salts, and anthropogenic activities, including vehicle emissions and industrial processes. While PM itself is not inherently toxic in all its forms, it often acts as a carrier of xenobiotic toxicants, such as heavy metals and organic pollutants, which adhere to its surface. This combination can result in synergistic toxic effects, significantly enhancing the potential harm to biological systems. Due to its small size and composition, PM can penetrate deep into the respiratory tract, acting as a physical "shuttle" that facilitates the distribution and bioavailability of toxic substances to distant organs. The omnipresence of PM in the environment leads to unavoidable and constant exposure, contributing to increased morbidity and mortality rates, particularly among vulnerable populations like the elderly, children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. This exposure also imposes a substantial financial burden on healthcare systems, as treating PM-related illnesses requires significant medical resources and leads to higher healthcare costs. Addressing these challenges necessitates effective mitigation strategies, including reducing PM exposure, improving air quality, and exploring novel approaches such as AI-based exposure prediction and nutritional interventions to protect public health and minimize the adverse effects of PM pollution.
Source: Journal of Xenobiotics
DOI: 10.3390/jox15040131
Institution: Johannes Kepler University of Linz
Language: English
Subfield: Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,930
Funder: Johannes Kepler Universität Linz
OpenAlex ID: W4413969675