Peculiarities of the Immune Status of Petrochemical Workers with Cardiovascular Diseases

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of our research was to assess characteristics of immune regulation in petrochemical workers suffering from cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Materials and methods: Our sample was divided into two groups: an observation group consisting of 115 people with CVD and a reference group of 56 people. Blood benzene was assayed by gas chromatography. Cellular phagocytosis was examined using formalinized sheep erythrocytes. The IgG content specific to benzene was measured using the allergosorbent test. CD-lymphocytes were phenotyped on a flow cytometer via membrane immune fluorescence and applying a panel of labeled monoclonal antibodies to membrane CD-receptors. Expression of TNFR, p53, Bcl-2, and bax was determined by applying relevant monoclonal antibodies. We used the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to determine total IgG, CA 19-9, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), interleukin-6, and VEGF. Statistical data analysis was performed using techniques of descriptive statistics and sample comparison. Intergroup differences were considered statistically significant at р≤0.05. Results: Chemical analytical tests revealed an excess benzene burden in the test group against the reference one. Immunoassays showed higher cellular phagocytic activity. We detected significant changes in CD-immunogram parameters such as increased concentrations of CD16+ effector cells, activation of Т-suppressors lymphocytes CD127-, an increase in Annexin V-FITC+7ADD-negative cells, TNFR, p53, bcl-2, bax, as well as the deficiency of CD19+, CD25+, CD95+ lymphocytes both against the reference group and physiological standards. We also determined an increase in total and benzene-specific sensibilization of the body, elevated concentrations of tumor markers CA 19-9 and PSA, interleukin-6, and the growth factor of vessels endothelium VEGF. All these changes characterized the features of immune homeostasis indicators and were responsible for pathogenesis and development of cardiovascular diseases. Conclusions: Significant associations of immunologic parameters in the form of functional disorders in programmed cells death with simultaneous activation of specific sensibilization processes create specific immunologic status of petrochemical workers with cardiovascular diseases in their medical history.