STUDIES ON MICROSOMAL EPOXIDE HYDROLASE (mEH) GENE POLYMORPHISM, DNA DAMAGE, ANTIOXIDANTS ACTIVITIES IN WOODEN WORKERS

Abstract

Wood dust is a complex substance that can cause different health problems during manufacture. These health problems may be a result of inducing oxidative stress which is causally related to inflammations. It is known to be a human carcinogen, with a considerable risk of lung cancer. The increased cancer risk is likely induced through its genotoxic effects resulting from oxidative DNA damage. The aim of the current study is to evaluate effects of wood dust on antioxidants status in terms of SOD, CAT and GPx enzymes. Levels of serum MIP-2 as oxidative stress marker in exposed workers. Also, its genotoxic effects designated as comet parameters and EPHX gene polymorphism in exon 3 and exon 4 in different duration of exposure from 5, 10, 15 to 20 years. This study was performed on 50 workers exposed to wood dust from a factory for furniture manufacture in Cairo governorate. Also, 50 healthy individuals not occupationally exposed to wood dust were recruited as controls. The workers and controls subjects were matched for age, socioeconomic status, dietary habits. Both groups were divided into four subgroups according to ages and