Health impacts of biomass burning aerosols: Relation to oxidative stress and inflammation

Exposure to biomass-burning particulate matter (PM) is associated with various adverse health effects, including respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, cancer, and systemic effects. Multiple mechanisms underlying PM toxicity components derived from biomass burning elicit harmful effects, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, inflammation, genotoxicity, and tissue-specific damage. Specific compounds or families of compounds present in biomass-burning PM, such as polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their derivatives, have been identified as key contributors to the observed health effects. Their roles in oxidative stress, DNA damage, and cell death have been elucidated in various organs, such as the lungs, liver, kidneys, and brain, providing valuable insights into the systemic biological influence of biomass-burning-related diseases. Current knowledge of the impact of biomass burning highlights the imperative need for further research to understand the health implications of this environmental challenge and the importance of mitigating the adverse effects of increased exposure to biomass-burning pollution to protect the well-being of exposed populations worldwide. This review focuses on the crucial roles of oxidative stress and inflammation in mediating health effects, triggered by exposure to biomass-burning aerosols. It examines various aspects of the health-related impacts of biomass-burning emissions, particularly those from PM components. The review highlights the health consequences on exposed populations, emphasizing specific biochemical responses, contributions to toxicity mechanisms, tissue-specific effects, and the families of compounds responsible for these effects.