Some antioxidant enzymes in workers exposed to pollutants

Abstract EN

The study was conducted in Mosul city to show the effect of pollutants on some antioxidant enzymes which included: catlase (CAT.), glutathione S-transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx).

The study included (153) persons represented in four groups, three of which were subjected directly to different pollutants (petroleum station workers (n = 37), workers in x-ray diagnosis (n = 39) and cement production workers (n = 33)).

The fourth group as a control included outside city center living (n = 44).

The results showed a significant decrease for CAT and GPx enzymes in all groups incomparison with control group.

On the other hand, there was a significant decrease in GST with petroleum station and cement workers.

For SOD, the results revealed a significant increase in workers of x-ray diagnosis , but a decrease non significantly in other groups.

In addition, the increase of period of pollution, produced a decrease in CAT for all groups except in petroleum station workers and workers in x-ray diagnosis.

Moreover a decrease in GST, SOD and GPx for all different pollutant groups were observed.

In conclusion, an increase exposure of different pollutants led to an increase in the oxidative stress in workers which decreased the antioxidant enzymes levels.

This behaviors might give an indication for the oxidation that take place in exposed persons.