Health effects of environmental DDT exposure: An epidemiological and serum proteomic study

Abstract

P offer a variety of benefits to the society such as increased crop production and decreased insect infestations. However, when used improperly, pesticides have the potential for causing harm. Approximately, 10,000-20,000 physiciandiagnosed pesticide poisonings occur each year among US agricultural workers. Although banned in the US in 1973, DDT, an organochlorine pesticide finds its way into the food chain as it is used in many parts of the world. The purpose of the study was to examine the health effects of DDT in a predominantly African American population who were exposed to highest levels of DDT in the US by consumption of DDTcontaminated fish. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 234 African Americans. Logistic Regression was used to calculate risk of morbidity from consumption of DDTcontaminated fish. Serum proteomic study included 21 breast cancer cases and 29 controls. Protein expression data was obtained by 2D DIGE analysis. Differentially expressed DIGE spots were excised for protein identification. Spots were digested with trypsin and the peptides were identified by QTOF LC/MS/MS or MALDI TOF analysis. Results: A non-significant increase in risk for hypertension in those who consumed DDT contaminated fish was observed (OR 1.672; 95% CI 0.324-8.628). Serum proteomic study yielded significantly increased levels of fibrinogen gamma in exposed individuals. Gamma fibrinogen is associated with increased risk of coronary artery disease. Future efforts will focus on validation of gamma fibrinogen in DDT exposed individuals. Funded by Susan G. Komen for the cure.