Risk Assessment Metabolic Disorders by Prolonged Exposure to Low Doses of Benzene

Abstract

Benzene is one of the most common environmental pollutants. However, the main attention of researchers is drawn to its carcinogenic and hematotoxic effect. The metabolic effects of this hydrocarbon have been studied to a lesser extent and are mainly related to high effects. The risks associated with the effect on the body of non-toxic doses of this pollutant are practically not studied, which was the purpose of the present study. Experiments lasting 7 weeks were carried out on animals that received drinking water containing benzene at a concentration of 10 µg/l, which is 1 maximum permissible concentration (MPC). It was shown that long-term consumption of water containing benzene in concentration equal to 1 MPC in animals led to changes in biochemical parameters in blood serum, characterized by a decrease in the level of total protein and albumin, a moderate increase in the activity of serum enzymes – alanine aminotransferase (ALAT), aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Simultaneously, developed hypercholesterolemia, triacylglycerolemia and dislipoproteinemia. In addition, there was a decrease in the concentration of urea and uric acid. The detected changes are considered as changes in liver functions under the influence of benzene. In addition, there was a decrease in the level of calcium, sodium and potassium in the blood serum, which may reflect the effect of the pollutant on the processes of reabsorption of electrolytes in the renal tubules on the one hand, as well as on the regulation of electrolyte metabolism. In addition, under the influence of low doses of benzene in animals developed insulin resistance (IR), estimated by glucose tolerance test (GTT). The possible role of oxidative stress in the development of the described disorders is discussed.