Gene-Environment Interactions Between Environmental Response Genes Polymorphisms and Mitochondrial DNA Copy Numbers Among Benzene Workers

J Occup Environ Med. 2021 Jul 1;63(7):e408-e415. doi: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000002225.

Abstract

Objective: To determine the effect of mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn) as a biomarker of benzene exposure.

Methods: A total of 294 benzene-exposed workers and 102 controls were recruited. Biomarkers of mtDNAcn, cytokinesis-block micronucleus (MN) frequency, and peripheral blood white blood cells (WBC) were detected. Eighteen polymorphism sites in DNA damage repair and metabolic genes were analyzed.

Results: Benzene exposure increased mtDNAcn and indicated a dose-response relationship (P < 0.001). mtDNAcn was negatively correlated with WBC count and DNA methylation and positively correlated with MN frequency. The AG type in rs1695 interacted with benzene exposure to aggravate mtDNAcn (β = 0.006, 95% CI: 0, 0.012, P = 0.050). rs13181, rs1695, rs1800975, and GSTM1 null were associated with benzene-induced mtDNAcn. Rs1695 interacted with benzene to increase mitochondrial damage.

Conclusions: Benzene exposure increases mtDNAcn levels in benzene-exposed workers.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Benzene* / analysis
  • Benzene* / toxicity
  • DNA Copy Number Variations
  • DNA, Mitochondrial / genetics
  • Gene-Environment Interaction
  • Humans
  • Occupational Exposure* / adverse effects
  • Occupational Exposure* / analysis

Substances

  • DNA, Mitochondrial
  • Benzene