How air pollution affects the digestive system

Fine air particles with a diameter smaller than 2.5 micrometers (PM_2.5), are a major air pollutant linked to several health problems. These particles can travel deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream when inhaled. Recent research suggests a major health problem: PM_2.5 Exposure can also damage the digestive system, including the liver, pancreas and intestines.

The work is published in the news eGastroenterology.

This recent study focused on how PM_2.5 Exposure causes stress responses in the cells of the digestive system. These stress responses involve specialized subcellular structures in cells called organelles, such as the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), mitochondria, and lysosomes. When PM_2.5 disrupts these organelles, creating a chain reaction within cells that can lead to inflammation and other harmful effects.

The liver, an important organ for detoxification and metabolism, is particularly sensitive to PM_2.5 injury. Research has shown that PM_2.5 Exposure can lead to a range of problems in the liver, including inflammation, stress responses and organelle damage, and disrupted energy metabolism. These effects may contribute to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NASH) and type 2 diabetes.

P.M_2.5 The exposure does not stop at the liver. It can also damage the pancreas and intestines. Studies have linked PM_2.5 to an increased risk of pancreatic disorders in people with diabetes, as well as to damage to intestinal cells and an increase in their permeability. This increased permeability can lead to various digestive problems.

Although recent research efforts provide valuable insights, important questions remain. Scientists are still trying to understand how cells sense PM_2.5 and how the stress response differs in different digestive organs. They also investigate how PM_2.5 Exposure affects communication between different digestive organs, potentially affecting overall digestive function.

Finally, researchers are investigating whether dietary or pharmaceutical interventions can reduce PM_2.5 injury. Interestingly, some research suggests that certain nutrients, such as monounsaturated fatty acids and vitamins, may provide some protection against the harmful effects of PM_2.5.

Air pollution is a complex problem for which there are no easy solutions. While research continues to reduce PM_2.5 exposure, current understanding of its impact on the digestive system highlights the far-reaching effects of air pollution on human health. It underlines the need for continued efforts to reduce air pollution levels and develop strategies to protect ourselves from its harmful effects.

Provided by the First Hospital of Jilin University