Abstract C019: Evaluation of genes for glutathione-S-transferase genetic polymorphism in drivers exposed to air pollution

Abstract Air pollution and its possible impact on human health is attracting growing interest around the world. It remains a serious threat of premature death. Multiple source of pollution are present in the outdoor and indoor air such as exhaust gases, industry, pesticides, gasoline, fuels, incense, air fresheners, insecticides, smoke, cosmetics and maintenance products…. These sources emited pollutants such as PM, CO, NO, VOC, PAH, O3 which are responsible for headaches, dizziness, eye irritation, hepatitis, respiratory and cardiac diseases and cancers (breast, blood, cervix, prostate…). These pathologies are due to the homozygous deletion of the glutathione-S-transferase (GST) genes. GST protects the body against toxicants by neutralizing electrophiles and makes toxic metabolites more soluble. Objective: To evaluate the genes of the glutathione-S-transferase genetic polymorphism GSTM1 and GSTT1 in pollutant-exposed motorcycle drivers. Materials & methods The study group is made up of 60 motorcycle drivers, including 30 professionals and 30 non-professionals. Blood samples are taken into the EDTA tube and DNA was extracted by the phenol/chloroform method. PCR was chosen to determine the presence or absence of GSTM1 and GSTT1. Results Our results showed that the percentage of GSTM1 null genotype was a significant difference (P=0.02), while the percentage of GSTT1 null genotype was not significant (P=0.76) between the two groups. The deletion of both genes is greater in professional than non-professional drivers. Conclusion In sum, air pollution in Cotonou appears to influence GSTM1 and GSTT1 gene suppression at a higher percentage in professional motorcycle drivers. This population could be predisposed to develop cancers. We recommend the consumption of fruits, organic vegetables and plants rich in antioxidants to strengthen the immune system. Citation Format: Firmin Houénoukpo Sagbo, Mènonvè Atindehou, Boris Cachon. Evaluation of genes for glutathione-S-transferase genetic polymorphism in drivers exposed to air pollution [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 15th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2022 Sep 16-19; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr C019.