Microscopic particles interacting with a DNA strand

Is Air Pollution Changing Your DNA? The Surprising Link Between PM10 and Methylation

Jordan Keane in Health & Wellness November 2025 • 5 min read.

"Discover how microscopic airborne particles could be impacting your health at a genetic level."

In today's world, air pollution is a growing concern, especially in urban environments. While we often hear about its immediate effects on our respiratory system, emerging research suggests that air pollution may have far more profound and lasting consequences, potentially impacting our very DNA. Recent studies are exploring the intricate relationship between airborne particulate matter (PM) and epigenetic modifications, offering new insights into the mechanisms by which pollution can affect our health.

One such study, conducted by researchers at Tehran University of Medical Sciences, investigated the impact of PM10 (particulate matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less) on DNA methylation in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). These cells, crucial components of our immune system, were exposed to PM10 in a controlled laboratory setting to mimic real-world pollution exposure. The results shed light on the potential for airborne pollutants to induce epigenetic changes, specifically DNA methylation, which could have long-term implications for health.

This article delves into the findings of this groundbreaking study, breaking down the scientific jargon and explaining the potential health implications in a way that’s easy to understand. We’ll explore what DNA methylation is, why it matters, and how PM10 exposure could be influencing this fundamental biological process. Ultimately, we aim to empower you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about protecting yourself and your loved ones from the harmful effects of air pollution.

PM10 and DNA Methylation: Unpacking the Science

Microscopic particles interacting with a DNA strand

Before diving into the specifics of the study, let's clarify some key concepts. DNA methylation is a process where a methyl group (a chemical tag) is added to a DNA molecule. Think of it like a switch that can turn genes 'on' or 'off,' influencing how our cells function. This process is crucial for normal development and cellular differentiation. Changes in DNA methylation patterns have been linked to various health issues, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurological disorders. Epigenetics is a the study of how your behaviors and environment can cause changes that affect the way your genes work.

Now, let's look at PM10. These are tiny particles suspended in the air, originating from various sources such as vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and construction activities. Due to their small size, PM10 particles can be easily inhaled and penetrate deep into our respiratory system, causing inflammation and other health problems. But the study from Tehran suggests that the danger doesn't stop there. It indicates a possible connection between PM10 exposure and alterations in DNA methylation patterns within our cells. The study was performed in vitro, meaning outside of a living body.

PM10 Sampling: PM10 particles were collected in Tehran using high-volume samplers and fiberglass filters.
PM10 Suspension Preparation: The collected particles were extracted using a dry ultrasonic method to ensure purity and then suspended in a cell culture medium.
PBMC Isolation and Treatment: Blood samples from healthy male volunteers were used to isolate PBMCs, which were then exposed to varying concentrations of PM10.
DNA Extraction and Analysis: DNA was extracted from the cells, and DNA methylation was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) to quantify 5-methylcytosine (%5-mC) and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (%5-hmC).
Statistical Analysis: The data were analyzed to determine the relationship between PM10 exposure and changes in DNA methylation levels.

The researchers exposed PBMCs to different concentrations of PM10 (50-300 µg/mL) for 4 hours. They then measured the levels of 5-methylcytosine (%5-mC) and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (%5-hmC), two key indicators of DNA methylation. The results indicated that exposure to PM10 could indeed influence DNA methylation patterns in these cells. This suggests that air pollution may have the potential to induce epigenetic modifications, which could contribute to the development of various diseases over time. More research is needed to clarify the long term effects, and understand how quickly the DNA methylation changes with lowered exposure to PM10.

Protecting Your DNA: What You Can Do

While the study's findings may seem concerning, it's important to remember that research in this area is ongoing. However, this study highlights the importance of minimizing our exposure to air pollution whenever possible. Simple steps like using air purifiers at home, avoiding peak traffic hours, and supporting policies that promote cleaner air can all contribute to protecting our health at a genetic level. The biggest protection is awareness, and understanding your exposure levels to airborne particle matter.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1016/j.mex.2018.11.008, Alternate LINK

Title: An In Vitro Method To Survey Dna Methylation In Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (Pbmcs) Treated By Airborne Particulate Matter (Pm10)

Subject: Medical Laboratory Technology

Journal: MethodsX

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Authors: Maryam Faraji, Zahra Pourpak, Kazem Naddafi, Ramin Nabizadeh Nodehi, Mohammad Hossein Nicknam, Mansour Shamsipour, Zahra Alizadeh, Soheila Rezaei, Narjes Soleimanifar, Alireza Mesdaghinia

Published: 2018-01-01

Everything You Need To Know

What exactly is PM10, and why should I be concerned about its presence in the air I breathe?

PM10 refers to particulate matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less. These tiny particles, originating from sources like vehicle emissions and industrial processes, can be inhaled deeply into the respiratory system. Once inside the body PM10 exposure has been associated with alterations in DNA methylation patterns within cells, potentially leading to long-term health issues. While the Tehran University of Medical Sciences study established a correlation, further research is needed to fully understand the direct mechanisms and long-term consequences of PM10 exposure on DNA methylation and overall health outcomes.

Can you explain DNA methylation in simple terms? Why is it so important for my health?

DNA methylation is a fundamental biological process where a methyl group, a chemical tag, is added to a DNA molecule. Think of it like a switch controlling gene activity, influencing how our cells function and develop. Changes in DNA methylation patterns have been linked to various health issues, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurological disorders. These alterations can be influenced by environmental factors, such as exposure to PM10, as demonstrated in the Tehran University of Medical Sciences study.

What did the Tehran University of Medical Sciences study discover about the relationship between PM10 and DNA?

The Tehran University of Medical Sciences study suggests a link between exposure to PM10 and changes in DNA methylation patterns within human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Specifically, the study showed that exposure to PM10 could influence the levels of 5-methylcytosine (%5-mC) and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (%5-hmC), two key indicators of DNA methylation. This raises concerns about the potential for air pollution to induce epigenetic modifications, which could contribute to the development of various diseases over time. More research is needed to clarify the long term effects, and understand how quickly the DNA methylation changes with lowered exposure to PM10.

How exactly was the study conducted to test PM10's effect on human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs)?

The Tehran University of Medical Sciences study used human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) exposed to PM10 in a controlled laboratory setting. The study followed a precise methodology. First, PM10 particles were collected and prepared into a suspension. Then PBMCs from healthy volunteers were isolated and treated with varying concentrations of PM10. Finally, DNA was extracted from the cells and analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) to measure DNA methylation levels. Statistical analysis was then performed to determine the relationship between PM10 exposure and changes in DNA methylation levels.

Given the potential link between air pollution and DNA changes, what practical steps can I take to protect myself and my family?

While the Tehran University of Medical Sciences study raises concerns, it also highlights the importance of minimizing exposure to air pollution. Using air purifiers at home, avoiding peak traffic hours, and supporting policies that promote cleaner air can help protect our health. The biggest protection is awareness, and understanding your exposure levels to airborne particle matter. Further research is still needed to fully understand the long-term implications of PM10 exposure and DNA methylation changes, proactive measures can be taken to reduce risk where possible.