Exploring genetic susceptibility to air pollution and its implications for disease risk and precision health: A scoping review.

Abstract

Air pollution, comprising a complex mixture of gaseous and particulate pollutants, remains a major global health concern that disproportionately affects vulnerable populations. In this scoping review, we aim to systematically investigate the role of genetic susceptibility in health outcomes associated with exposure to air pollution, with a particular emphasis on fine particulate matter (PM_2.5), particulate matter (PM₁₀), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and nitrogen oxides (NO_x); key pollutants consistently linked to adverse health effects. By exploring the gene-environment interactions underlying air pollution-related conditions, this review offers new insights into how genetic factors may modulate individual responses to air pollutants and their implications for precision health. Analyzing 16 peer-reviewed studies published in the last decade, we highlight genetic markers and pathways involved in regulating oxidative stress, inflammation, and DNA repair, which are thought to influence individual variation in responses to PM_2.5, PM₁₀, NO₂, and NO_x. Although none of the included studies entailed multi-omics or machine learning approaches, we identified these tools as promising directions for future research aimed at elucidating mechanistic pathways and informing personalized strategies. These techniques could significantly improve the understanding of gene-environment interactions, and are suggested as emerging methodologies for future studies. However, the scarcity of longitudinal studies and the underrepresentation of diverse populations limit the generalizability of the current findings. Addressing these gaps will be essential for advancing research, improving environmental health equity, and informing policy in the context of air pollution and genetic susceptibility.