Molecular Biomarkers in Environmental Health Research: Advances and Public Health Applications

Chentian Hu

doi:10.54097/29a80p96

Authors

Chentian Hu

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54097/29a80p96

Keywords:

Molecular Epidemiology, Biomarkers, Environmental Exposure, Public Health, Precision Prevention

Abstract

Environmental factors pose significant public health risks. Traditional epidemiological studies face limitations in accurately assessing individual exposure, elucidating underlying mechanisms, and identifying susceptible populations. Utilizing specific biomarkers, molecular epidemiology provides a powerful tool to unravel the "black box" between environmental exposure and health outcomes. This article systematically reviews the advances and applications of molecular biomarkers in environmental health research. Firstly, based on the "exposure-disease continuum" theory, biomarkers are classified into three categories: biomarkers of exposure (e.g., cotinine for tobacco smoke exposure), biomarkers of effect (e.g., 8-OHdG indicating oxidative damage), and biomarkers of susceptibility (e.g., genetic polymorphisms), alongside an overview of their detection technologies. Subsequently, through analysis of typical cases involving ambient PM₂.₅, heavy metals, and environmental endocrine disruptors (EDCs), the specific applications of various biomarkers in revealing exposure levels, deciphering pathogenic mechanisms, and assessing health risks are analyzed, demonstrating their core value in advancing environmental health research from macroscopic associations to microscopic mechanisms. Finally, the article discusses challenges and limitations concerning technical standardization, biological interpretation, translational application, and assessment of complex mixture exposures. It also offers perspectives on future directions, including promoting the integration of multi-omics technologies, strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration, and facilitating the translation of research findings into public health practice, aiming to provide a scientific basis for building a precise environmental health risk assessment and early warning system.

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