Introducing a Possible Proteomic and Genomic Biomarker Panel Related to Methanol Poisoning: A Review

Context: Methanol is one of the simplest organic compounds widely used in industry. It is highly toxic and unfit for human consumption. The abuse of methanol-containing beverages is becoming a severe health problem. This review discusses new clinical and pathological manifestations alongside proteomic and genomic changes based on methanol's toxic effects. Evidence Acquisition: Medical literature was reviewed in Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed to examine the effect of methanol intoxication on proteomic and genomic changes in the human body. Results: The results revealed the rapid direct absorption of methanol and its spread in body tissues. Various side effects, from digestive problems to neurological disorders, blindness, and death, could occur depending on the consumed dosage. Methanol poisoning causes extensive changes at the protein level, affecting blood coagulation, vitamin metabolism, immune response, and lipid transport processes. Methanol could alter the gene expression profile pattern by increasing the production of free radical species, which cause changes in DNA nucleotides. Conclusions: In conclusion, since methanol poisoning is associated with serious adverse effects (protein expression changes) and mortality, it should be managed seriously and promptly.