# Impact of Early-Life Environmental Exposures and Potential Transgenerational Influence on the Risk of Coronary Artery Disease and Heart Failure

## TL;DR

This paper reviews how early-life and transgenerational environmental factors may influence the risk of heart disease and heart failure.

## Contribution

The study systematically evaluates mechanisms linking early-life exposures to cardiovascular disease, emphasizing transgenerational effects.

## Key findings

- Early-life environmental exposures, such as air pollution and maternal diet, are linked to increased cardiovascular disease risk.
- Transgenerational and intergenerational epigenetic mechanisms may influence the development of heart disease.
- Preventive strategies should begin in early life to reduce the burden of cardiovascular diseases.

## Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide and constitute a substantial economic burden. Despite population aging, recent years have witnessed an increasing prevalence of conditions such as heart failure (HF), including among young adults. In this context, coronary artery disease (CAD) has also become an increasingly discussed issue. It has long been recognized that control of risk factors is crucial for prevention. Researchers stress the need to monitor these factors from the earliest stages of life, and detailed analyses indicate an influence of the prenatal period on the development of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disorders. Transgenerational and intergenerational epigenetic mechanisms are also taken into account. This review aims to systematically evaluate the existing literature and summarize the mechanisms that may link these factors. We consider epigenetic, metabolic, immunological, and inflammatory influences. We describe examples of environmental exposures, such as air pollution, maternal diet, toxins, and infections, and analyze data derived from clinical studies. We discuss gaps in the literature and identify limitations, outlining directions for future research and emphasizing the need for CVD prevention initiated at the earliest stages of life.