Lipidomic Analysis Reveals Systemic Alterations in Servicemen Exposed to Repeated Occupational Low-Level Blast Waves

Occupational exposure to blast is a prevalent risk experienced by military personnel. While low-level exposure may not manifest immediate signs of illness, prolonged and repetitive exposure may result in neurophysiological dysfunction. Such repeated exposure to occupational blasts has been linked to structural and functional modifications in the brain, adversely affecting the performance of servicemen in the field. These neurological changes can give rise to symptoms resembling concussion and contribute to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder.

To understand long-term effects of blast exposure, the study was conducted to assess memory function, serum circulatory protein and lipid biomarkers, and associated concussive symptomology in servicemen. Concussion-like symptoms were assessed using the Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire (RPSQ) along with memory function using PGI memory scale. The serum protein biomarkers were quantified using a sandwich ELISA assay, and the serum lipid profile was measured using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer.

The findings revealed that repeated low-level blast exposure resulted in impaired memory function, accompanied by elevated levels of serum neurofilament light chain (neuroaxonal injury) and C-reactive protein. Furthermore, alterations in the lipid profile were observed, with an increase in lipid species associated with immune activation. These changes collectively point to systemic inflammation, neuronal injury, and memory dysfunction as pathological characteristics of repeated low-level blast exposure.

The results of our preliminary investigation offer valuable insights for further large-scale study and provide a guiding principle that necessitates a suitable mitigation approach to safeguard the health of personnel against blast overpressure.