Tehran University of Medical Sciences Journal of Air Pollution and Health 2476-3071 11 1 2026 04 21 131 152 Riya Sharma IIT Delhi Hariprasad Puttaswamy IIT Delhi S.K. Tyagi Department of Energy Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, India 2026 01 08 2026 02 15 Globally, air pollution is responsible for over 7 million premature deaths annually and accounts for more than 3% of disability-adjusted life years lost. The harmful effects of air pollution, particularly particulate matter (PM), are far-reaching, significantly contributing to the prevalence and progression of coronary artery disease, respiratory illnesses, and lung disorders. Although the adverse health consequences of PM are well-documented, the precise biological mechanisms driving these outcomes remain incompletely understood. In recent years, the field of epigenetics has shed light on PM-induced epigenetic changes, with a focus on DNA methylation, providing a promising framework for exploring these mechanisms. A growing body of evidence highlights the strong association between PM exposure and alterations in DNA methylation patterns across the genome, suggesting that these modifications play a pivotal role in mediating the biological and health effects of PM exposure. This comprehensive review explores the intricate relationship between DNA methylation and PM exposure. Representative epidemiological and experimental studies emphasize the connections between PM-induced methylation alterations and the indirect impact of DNA methylation on health. By providing valuable insights into gene-specific alterations, the review contributes to a deeper understanding of the potential implications of PM exposure on DNA methylation and its broader health consequences. https://japh.tums.ac.ir/index.php/japh/article/view/1207 https://japh.tums.ac.ir/index.php/japh/article/download/1207/467