Abstract
BACKGROUND: Numerous epidemiological studies have found that pesticide exposure is associated with the incidence of type 2 diabetes (T2D); however, the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. DNA methylation may play a role in this process. AIM: To identify the genes associated with pesticide exposure and T2D by reviewing the current literature. METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed and Embase for relevant studies that examined the association between pesticide exposure and DNA methylation, and studies on DNA methylation and T2D through January 15, 2024. RESULTS: We identified six genes (Alu, CABLES1, CDH1, PDX1, PTEN, PTPRN2) related to pesticide exposure and T2D. We also suggested future research directions to better define the role of DNA methylation in the association between pesticide exposure and T2D. CONCLUSION: DNA methylation of specific genes may play a vital role in the association between pesticide exposure and T2D.