Exposure to certain toxic substances can damage cilia, impairing their function. For instance, chronic exposure to cigarette smoke is a well-documented cause of cilia loss. The toxic chemicals in smoke, such as formaldehyde and acrolein, can destroy the structural integrity of cilia, leading to their loss or dysfunction. Similarly, exposure to industrial pollutants, such as airborne particulates and chemical fumes, can also damage cilia. The presence of these toxins can trigger inflammatory responses, leading to cell damage and subsequent cilia loss.
