journal article·2026-02-13Open access

Molecular Perspectives on the Association of Air Pollution Biomarkers with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Gestational Diabetes

Aikaterini Itziou, Vasiliki Michou, Evangelia Lakioti, Vayos Karayannis

Applied Sciences· Volume 16· Issue 4

Abstract

Air pollution is increasingly recognized as a contributor to metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The current review analyzes molecular mechanisms linking air pollution exposure to diabetes development, emphasizing the role of oxidative stress, and focusing on well-known biomarkers such as protein modifications, lipid peroxidation, DNA damage, and altered antioxidant capacity. Pollutants such as particulate matter (PM) and ozone induce oxidative stress and inflammation, disrupting insulin signaling and glucose homeostasis. Thus understanding these molecular pathways enhances our ability to identify at-risk populations and develop targeted interventions. This insight bridges environmental exposure and metabolic disease, underscoring urgent public health implications.
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Air Quality and Health Impacts · Health, Environment, Cognitive Aging · Biomarkers in Disease Mechanisms

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Department of Midwifery, School of Health Sciences, University of Western Macedonia, 50200 Ptolemaida, Greece

Sports Medicine Laboratory, School of Physical Education and Sport Science, Aristotle University, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece

School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece

Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Western Macedonia, Kila, 50100 Kozani, Greece

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