Progress on internal exposure to typical environmental persistent organic pollutants and cancer
- VernacularTitle:典型环境持久性有机污染物内暴露与癌症的研究进展
- Author:
Xuerui MA
1
;
Wanjing TONG
1
;
Yijia ZHANG
1
;
Wenjuan ZHANG
1
;
Yong LIANG
1
;
Maoyong SONG
2
Author Information
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords: persistent organic pollutant; internal exposure; cancer; carcinogenic mechanism
- From: Journal of Environmental and Occupational Medicine 2024;41(4):442-450
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
- Abstract: Environmental pollution is closely linked to the occurrence and development of cancer. Chemical carcinogens are the most important environmental factors causing cancer in humans. Among them, persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are characterized by their widespread distribution, persistence, and bioaccumulation. Research on the carcinogenic effects of POPs has received considerable attention in recent years. This article reviewed the internal exposure, association with cancer risk, and potential carcinogenic mechanisms of five typical classes of POPs in the environment, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), brominated flame retardants (BFRs), and short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs). These five types of POPs have distinct carcinogenic mechanisms, including interfering with cell proliferation cycle, altering epigenetic inheritance, promoting oxidative stress, altering energy metabolism, and affecting immune function. The development of cancer is the result of interaction between intrinsic genetic factors and external environmental factors. In addition to focusing on how environmental POPs affect the genetic material of organisms, it is also important to consider their effects on the tumor microenvironment, including tumor immunity and angiogenesis. Understanding these effects is crucial for guiding future efforts in pollution control and precision medicine in cancer treatment.
