Genotoxic and epigenetic signatures of early-life pesticide exposure: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Prenatal and early childhood exposure to pesticides is a global concern, yet the genotoxic mechanisms potentially linking these exposures to adverse health outcomes remain incompletely characterized. We conducted a systematic review and random-effects meta-analysis of studies reporting primary DNA damage, cytogenetic damage, DNA methylation, or gene expression outcomes associated with prenatal and early childhood pesticide exposure. We searched four databases following PRISMA guidelines and assessed using risk of bias using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Twenty-eight studies met inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis revealed substantial DNA damage in pesticide-exposed groups (Cohen's <i>d</i> = 4.85, 95%CI = 3.31-6.39), with stronger effects in maternal and cord blood than in children's blood. Cytogenetic damage showed consistent increases in agricultural versus urban areas, though with significant heterogeneity in effect magnitude. Pathway-specific gene expression analysis revealed significant downregulation of DNA damage/repair genes (-1.08, 95%CI:-1.20,-0.96) and distinct biological responses across inflammatory, oxidative stress, and cell signaling pathways. DNA methylation responses varied by pesticide class, with o,p'-DDT consistently associated with hypermethylation. Pronounced sex-specific effects and genetic susceptibility emerged as important effect modifiers. The evidence supports substantial genotoxic and epigenetic alterations following early-life pesticide exposure, highlighting mechanistic pathways that may underlie adverse health outcomes and reinforcing the need for precautionary policies during critical developmental windows.