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Cytokine profile and early immune response to SARS-CoV-2 in occupationally lead-exposed individuals: A
Marta Jeziorska1, Sławomir Kasperczyk1, Michał Słota2
1Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Jordana 19, Zabrze 41-808, Poland.
Background:
The adaptive immune response to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is characterized by the production of various antibodies, with immunoglobulin M (IgM) being the initial isotype synthesized. Lead (Pb), a toxic heavy metal, accumulates in biological systems and disrupts multiple biochemical processes, potentially modulating immune function through alterations in cytokine production and antibody levels.
Objective:
This study aimed to elucidate the early immune response to SARS-CoV-2 in lead-exposed individuals by examining antibody profiles and associated immunological parameters.
Methods:
A cohort of 277 male employees from a zinc and lead smelting facility in Poland was evaluated for SARS-CoV-2-specific IgM, IgG, and IgA antibodies prior to COVID-19 vaccination. Participants were stratified into IgM-positive (n = 13) and IgM/IgG/IgA-negative (n = 149) groups. Biomarkers of inflammation, hematological parameters, and oxidative stress were analyzed.
Results:
The IgM-positive group exhibited significantly elevated levels of cytokines, including a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), B cell activating factor (BAFF), interleukin-20 (IL-20), pentraxin-3 (PTX-3), and soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (sTNF-R2). A significantly higher level of IgM antibody levels was observed in individuals with higher zinc protoporphyrin (ZPP) concentrations. However, no significant differences in blood lead levels (PbB), oxidative stress markers, or hematological parameters were detected between the groups.
Conclusion:
Elevated levels of APRIL, BAFF, IL-20, sTNF-R2, and PTX-3 in lead-exposed individuals with recent SARS-CoV-2 infection may indicate robust dendritic cell and B cell activation and enhanced modulation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) activity. These findings contribute to our understanding of the complex interplay between environmental lead exposure and the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection.
