Cadmium and Chromium Exposure associated with DNA Hypermethylation of p16 Tumour suppressor gene

Abstract

This study investigated the environmental impact of urbanization on water quality, focusing on Greater Noida, a rapidly developing region in India. Thirty groundwater samples were collected from five villages during the pre- and postmonsoon seasons to analyze changes in water quality. Concurrently, a case‒control study involving 25 cancer patients and 25 healthy individuals explored the potential health effects of heavy metal exposure through drinking water. Blood samples were analyzed for cadmium (Cd) and chromium (Cr) concentrations using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Additionally, a paired case‒control study assessed p16 gene promoter hypermethylation in blood samples from individuals exposed to elevated Cd and Cr concentrations. Statistical analyses revealed significant increases in postmonsoon Cr concentrations, exceeding regulatory limits. Cadmium levels were also not correlated with postmonsoon season disease. Blood analysis indicated a strong correlation between p16 hypermethylation and heavy metal exposure. These findings emphasize the critical need for comprehensive monitoring, control measures, and remediation strategies to address environmental contamination and safeguard public health in rapidly urbanizing regions such as Greater Noida.