The relationship between PAEs components profile of real-world household airborne dust and total DNA demethylation potential in vitro

Phthalate esters (PAEs) existed in household environment globally, and household airborne dust PAEs (HD-PAEs) have garnered significant attention due to their endocrine-like toxicity. In on-site study investigating PAE contamination from 60 households across three Chinese cities, we analyzed 43 dust samples for specific PAE components and conducted comprehensive total DNA demethylation potential (TDP) toxicity assays. Ten congeners were detected across all cities (130.26-3683.66 μg/g), with Harbin showing the highest median ∑10PAEs concentration (1970.71 μg/g). Decoration, living habits and housing characteristics, collectively influenced PAE levels, with DEHP and DCHP being the dominant congeners. Correlation and factor analyses identified four primary sources: (1) plastic products and personal care products (DEP, DPP, and DEHP: 36.74 %), (2) adhesive products (DMEP and DHXP: 15.06 %), (3) flooring materials and personal care products (DNOP and DBP: 12.55 %), and (4) packing materials and synthetic leather (BBP: 11.40 %). While non-carcinogenic risks were acceptable (HI < 1), DEHP posed a potential carcinogenic risk (LCR > 10⁻⁶). The TDP assay revealed a 79.07 % positive demethylation, and extensive modeling demonstrated a significant positive correlation between DBP and TDP (p < 0.1). This study provides valuable insights into HD-PAEs pollution and its health risk mechanisms, offering critical evidence for future risk assessments.