Overview

• Tumors from never-smokers in high-pollution areas harbored 3.9 times more tobacco-related mutations and 76% more aging-related mutations than those in cleaner environments.
• The study’s whole-genome sequencing focused exclusively on never-smokers to isolate pollution’s impact on lung tumor mutation patterns.
• Higher exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) correlated with increased mutation burden and shortened telomeres, indicating accelerated cellular aging.
• A novel mutational signature was discovered in most never-smoker tumors, and researchers remain uncertain about its environmental or biological origin.
• Follow-up research will expand genomic analyses to Latin America, the Middle East and additional regions while exploring other exposures such as marijuana and e-cigarette use.