Uridine Diphosphoglucuronosyltransferase 1A7 Gene Polymorphism and Susceptibility to Chromosomal Damage Among Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons Exposed Workers

Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between UGTIA7 gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to chromosomal damage among polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH)-exposed workers. Methods: Blood and urine samples of 140 PAH-exposed workers and 66 non―PAH-exposed workers were collected. The polymorphisms of UGTIA7, cytokinesisblock micronucleus (CBMN) and 1-hydroxypyrene were analyzed. Results: UGTIA7 codon 208 Arg carriers exhibited significantly higher CBMN frequencies than did the Trp/Trp (P < 0.05). Stratification analysis revealed that the significant association between CBMN frequencies and the polymorphisms of UGTIA7 Asn129Lys, Arg131Lys, and Trp208Arg was most pronounced. Moreover, higher CBMN frequencies were found among subjects with * 3 allele than those with * 1 allele (P = 0.008) in younger PAH-exposed workers. Conclusion: Polymorphisms of UGTIA7 gene may alter the severity of PAH-induced chromosomal damage among the exposed workers.