The pathogenesis of endemic fluorosis: Research progress in the last 5 years

Fluorine is one of the trace elements necessary for health. It has many physiological functions, and participates in normal metabolism. However, fluorine has paradoxical effects on the body. Many studies have shown that tissues and organs of humans and animals appear to suffer different degrees of damage after long‐term direct or indirect exposure to more fluoride than required to meet the physiological demand. Although the aetiology of endemic fluorosis is clear, its specific pathogenesis is inconclusive. In the past 5 years, many researchers have conducted in‐depth studies into the pathogenesis of endemic fluorosis. Research in the areas of fluoride‐induced stress pathways, signalling pathways and apoptosis has provided further extensive knowledge at the molecular and genetic level. In this article, we summarize the main results.