Scientists talked about the effect of smoke from a fire on human immunity

Exposure to smoke from landscape fires is associated with poor health and can cause a wide range of consequences, from cardiovascular and respiratory disorders to pregnancy complications. This is stated in a study published in the journal Nature.

As part of the work, the specialists analyzed blood samples from 31 people exposed to smoke and 29 participants in the control group. The study participants were comparable in gender and age. The pollution level included PM2.5 particles, heavy metals, and PFAS compounds (perfluoroalkyls and polyfluoroalkyls) commonly present in smoke from wildfires.

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Using methods of mass cytometry and methylation analysis at the level of individual cells, scientists have recorded persistent epigenetic changes associated with inflammatory and immune responses. A total of 133 DNA regions were identified, where changes in methylation associated with the development of diseases were observed. At the same time, immunophenotyping showed an increase in activation and inflammation markers.

As the researchers emphasize, the results indicate a clear relationship between inhalation of polluted air and a violation of cellular homeostasis. The analysis showed that toxic metals, including mercury and cadmium, accumulated in living and dead cells. Elevated mercury levels were recorded in those who had been exposed to smoke for a long time.

"We have developed the use of mass cytometry for single-cell/metal binding analysis and have found, for example, elevated levels of mercury in dead cells and cadmium in populations of living and dead cells," the publication says.

The scientists also found that epigenetic changes affected DNA regions on several chromosomes and had individual characteristics depending on the type of cell and the specific metal. According to the authors, their approach makes it possible to more accurately determine the degree and duration of smoke exposure, and also opens up opportunities for the development of targeted therapeutic interventions.

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On July 30, Science Daily magazine reported that polluted air may be not only a risk factor for the lungs, but also a "silent accelerator" of neurodegeneration. Exposure to pollutants has a particular effect on the risk of developing vascular dementia, a form of the disease associated with impaired blood supply to the brain.

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