Health hazards of occupational exposure to benzene, toluene and xylene (BTX) and the role of Vanin-1: a populational-based study.

PURPOSE: Despite most enterprises adhering to regulatory limits for benzene, toluene and xylene (BTX) exposure, growing evidence suggests that chronic, low-level exposure to these chemicals is associated with compromised antioxidant defenses. Vascular non-inflammatory molecule 1 (Vanin-1) plays a pivotal role in modulating oxidative stress. This study investigates the effect on hematological parameters and oxidative stress markers among occupationally exposed workers, focusing on Vanin-1 as a potential early oxidative damage biomarker.

METHODS

A total of 300 participants (exposure group = 100, control group = 200) were recruited from three enterprises located in Henan Province, China. Demographic, occupational, and lifestyle data were collected through structured questionnaires, followed by comprehensive statistical analyses.

RESULTS

The exposed group exhibited significantly lower white blood cell/neutrophil counts, along with higher mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration compared to the control group. Urinary metabolite S-phenylmercapturic acid (S-PMA) levels were significantly higher in the exposure group, and these levels exhibited a positive linear relationship with eosinophil percentage. Additionally, the exposed group had significantly reduced glutathione (GSH) levels, while oxidized glutathione (GSSG) levels were significantly elevated. Both Vanin-1 protein and mRNA expression levels were significantly lower in the exposed group. Generalized linear model analysis indicated a significant positive correlation between S-PMA and malondialdehyde (MDA), while S-PMA was negatively correlated with Vanin-1 expression. Bootstrapping mediation showed Vanin-1 explained 10.6% of S-PMA on MDA.

CONCLUSION

Vanin-1 appears to be a potential biomarker for detecting early oxidative damage resulting from low-level BTX exposure. These findings provide a scientific basis for safeguarding worker health.