Increased leukemia-associated gene expression in benzene-exposed workers.
Keqiu Li1, Yaqing Jing1, Caihong Yang1
11] Basic Medical College, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, P. R. China, 300070 [2].
Scientific Reports
|July 5, 2014
Summary
Benzene exposure may lead to leukemia by causing genetic changes. This study found copy-number variations and increased NOTCH1 and BSG gene expression in benzene-exposed workers, suggesting early molecular alterations.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Long-term benzene exposure is a known risk factor for acute myeloid leukemia.
- Identifying early genetic alterations in asymptomatic, benzene-exposed individuals is crucial for understanding leukemia pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate genetic alternations and gene expression changes in shoe-factory workers with varying benzene exposure durations.
- To identify molecular markers associated with leukemia development in benzene-exposed populations.
Main Methods:
- Cytogenetic analysis using Affymetrix Cytogenetics Array to detect copy-number variations (CNVs).
- Real-time PCR to quantify mRNA levels of NOTCH1 and BSG genes.
- Comparison of gene expression between benzene-exposed workers and unexposed controls.
Main Results:
- CNVs were identified in chromosomes of benzene-exposed workers.
- NOTCH1 mRNA levels were significantly elevated in all exposure groups, increasing with duration.
- BSG mRNA levels were significantly increased in workers with 7-24 years of exposure compared to controls.
Conclusions:
- CNVs and altered expression of leukemia-related genes (NOTCH1, BSG) may play a role in the early stages of leukemia development in benzene-exposed individuals.
- Findings suggest potential biomarkers for monitoring leukemia risk in occupationally exposed workers.
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