S01-01 Exposomics and telomeres

Abstract

Telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes, serve as sensitive indicators of biological aging and cumulative environmental burden. The link between the exposome – the totality of environmental exposures from conception onwards – and telomere biology highlights telomere length and dynamics as biomarkers of effect and aging.

Environmental exposures such as air pollution, heavy metals, dietary patterns, and psychosocial stressors are consistently associated with telomere attrition. Mechanistic pathways include oxidative stress, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and epigenetic modifications, all of which contribute to telomere instability. Telomeres reflect the combined influence of external exposures and individual susceptibility, forming a molecular interface between environment and health outcomes.

Telomere length functions as both a genetic and metabolic biomarker for human aging. Shortened telomeres are linked to increased risk of chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease, cancer, metabolic disorders, and neurodegenerative conditions. In real-life exposure scenarios, telomere length can support the evaluation of long-term biological effects through Real-Life Risk Simulation (RLRS) models that account for low-dose, mixed exposures.

Associations between lifestyle factors and telomere length further support its relevance in population-based studies. Nutritional status, physical activity, and smoking influence telomere maintenance, with evidence pointing to protective effects of the Mediterranean diet and antioxidant intake.r

Positioning telomere dynamics within the exposome framework allows for a more integrated understanding of exposure-related health effects, aging processes, and disease risk. Telomere length provides a robust, quantifiable endpoint for advancing environmental health research and guiding preventive strategies.