Combined analysis of chromosomal aberrations and glutathione S-transferase M1 and T1 polymorphisms in pathologists...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Toxicology
• Genetics

Background:

• Formaldehyde (FA) is used in hospitals as a bactericide and preservative, leading to indoor air pollution.
• The genotoxic potential of formaldehyde in occupationally exposed individuals remains a subject of conflicting research.
• Previous studies indicate potential health risks associated with formaldehyde exposure in healthcare settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the frequency of chromosomal aberrations (CAs) in lymphocytes of pathology ward workers exposed to formaldehyde.
• To compare cytogenetic damage in formaldehyde-exposed workers with unexposed control subjects.
• To investigate the influence of GSTM1 and GSTT1 gene polymorphisms on formaldehyde-induced genotoxicity.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of chromosomal aberrations (CAs) in peripheral blood lymphocytes.
• Comparison between occupationally exposed workers and a control group.
• Genotyping for GSTM1 and GSTT1 metabolic gene polymorphisms.
• Statistical analysis using generalized linear models and cubic-spline regression.

Main Results:

• Exposed subjects showed a significant increase in CA frequency and percentage of cells with aberrations compared to controls.
• GST genotypes did not significantly affect the level of cytogenetic damage.
• CA frequency increased with age and was significantly higher in the exposed group, independent of age.
• A non-linear relationship was observed between CAs and years of formaldehyde exposure.

Conclusions:

• Airborne formaldehyde induces chromosomal aberrations even at low daily exposure levels.
• Occupational exposure to formaldehyde poses an increased risk of genetic damage to healthcare workers.
• The findings underscore the importance of monitoring and controlling formaldehyde exposure in occupational settings.