Impact and Consequence

The digital fingerprint of the environment as detected in the body

The stressors a person experiences through environmental influences are correlated with biological changes inside the body. These can be measured via “omics” analyses. “A digital fingerprint of the environment is created in the body, a kind of ‘biochemical diary’ of our lives”, says Professor Münzel. These analyses allow deductions regarding metabolic processes which are subject to change based on environmental factors.

Exposome analyses could potentially initiate a revolution in prevention and diagnostics, says Thomas Münzel: “‘Molecular signatures’ enable the detection of environmental stressors in the blood before diseases will become apparent.” Even personalized prevention will be possible: those who react strongly to noise or dust particulates may be protected more effectively.

The cardiologist also envisions great potential for new therapeutic approaches. Environmental factors exert their influence via biochemical signaling pathways including oxidative stress and disruptions of the circadian rhythm – the body’s internal clock. “The knowledge gained from exposome research opens up novel therapeutic options for diseases such as hypertension, atherosclerosis and cardiac insufficiency”, says Münzel.

A risky lifestyle

For the scientist and many of his colleagues, this still very young field of research carries with it political responsibility: environmental stressors are to be included in guidelines and health policy as modifiable risk factors. He says: “The safeguarding of health does not begin in the clinic but rather with city planning and everyday life.” Many of the exposome risk factors are directly connected to our modern way of life: traffic, industrial manufacturing, food production and much more. Changing these systems is beyond the capabilities of the individual.

Yet, everyone can improve their own personal exposome, says Thomas Münzel. His advice: do not smoke, reduce noise, stay away from the cell phone while in bed, get some exercise outside in nature, pay attention to a healthy diet and, if possible, choose organic. Air out indoor spaces regularly and stay in touch with friends and family. None of this is new, but over a lifetime, these influences add up. Many diseases can be prevented before they emerge – with the added benefit of the immediate joy of taking the dog for a walk or running through the forest.

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