Impact of Common Environmental Exposures on Airway Cilia Biology: Insights into Structure, Function, and Signaling Mechanisms

Background: Airway cilia are essential for maintaining respiratory health by facilitating the removal of inhaled pathogens and toxicants through mucociliary clearance. However, daily exposure to environmental factors such as cigarette smoke, PM2.5, allergens, and microplastics can impair cilia structure and function, leading to compromised mucociliary clearance and the progression of respiratory diseases. Summary: This review synthesizes recent research on the impact of common environmental exposures on airway cilia, focusing on structural and functional alterations, as well as associated signaling pathways. Emerging therapeutic strategies, including gene therapy, anti-inflammatory agents, and antioxidants, show promise in restoring ciliary function and improving mucociliary clearance. Key Messages: Environmental exposures impair airway cilia through multiple mechanisms, including oxidative stress, inflammation, and dysregulation of signaling pathways. Future research should focus on identifying novel therapeutic targets and developing personalized interventions to mitigate ciliary damage.