Redox balance and DNA fragmentation in arsenic-exposed occupational workers from different industries of Pakistan

Abstract Occupational exposure accounts for a contact between workers and different toxicants. Present study was designed to measure the arsenic-induced DNA fragmentation and oxidative stress in exposed workers. Blood, hair, and nail samples were collected from welding, brick kiln, furniture, pesticide, and paint industries (n = 50/industry) of Pakistan along with 200 controls. DNA damage was calculated using DNA fragmentation assay. Antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD, GPx) were measured using ELISA. Results revealed that arsenic exposure induced DNA fragmentation in brick kiln, furniture, and welding industries. Enzyme activity was reduced in five industries compared to control. In exposed group, significant depletion of enzymes was observed in furniture, welding, and brick kiln workers. Based on age and time of exposure, significant difference was observed in welding and brick kiln group. Smokers of exposed group showed significantly reduced levels of enzymes compared to controls. Arsenic deposition was observed higher in the hair, nail, and blood samples of exposed group (P < 0.001) compared to control. Likewise, lead and cadmium contents were higher in the blood samples of industrial workers compared to control. This study suggests increased trend of cellular damage and oxidative stress in occupational workers profoundly in welding, furniture, and brick kiln industries. Moreover, this study recognizes the contribution of age, exposure time, and smoking status toward arsenic-induced oxidative stress and DNA fragmentation.