Status of neurocognitive and oxidative stress conditions in iron–steel workers

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine oxidative stress status as well as ferrous (Fe) and Copper (Cu) levels in blood, neurocognitive impairment, and clinical markers in iron-steel workers. A comparative cross-sectional analysis was performed in 50 iron-steel workers who have been in contact with Fe and Cu in comparison with a control group containing 50 healthy subjects in the same age group and sex. Blood levels of lipid peroxidation, total antioxidant capacity, Fe, and Cu along with neurocognitive impairment were measured in workers and controls. Clinical examination was accomplished to record any abnormal sign or symptoms. Comparing with controls, the workers showed higher blood levels of lipid peroxidation and Cu and also a lower total antioxidant capacity. There was a positive correlation between work history and interstitial lung disease that strengths the presumption to progress to chronic obstructive lung disease in future. The results indicate that exposure to a combination of Fe and Cu in iron-steel workers induces oxidative stress. Especially, in the present case, toxic effect of Cu has been more than positive effects of Fe, but the combined exposure resulted in no such critical toxicity.

Complete Remission of Vulvar Squamous Cell Carcinoma After Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy in Copper Smelting and Purification Workers: A Case Report

“…Studies over the past two decades have shown that the redox activity of metals can lead to oxidative stress, a state of imbalance between oxidation and antioxidation in the body, causing DNA damage, lipid peroxidation (LPO), and protein changes triggering other effects that can eventually lead to cancer. 4,18 Among them, copper can directly accelerate the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) through reactions such as the Fenton reaction and the Haber-Weiss reaction, and exposure to high levels of copper can significantly reduce glutathione levels. 18,19 Redox reactions of the inactive metals arsenic, lead and cadmium show their toxic effects by binding to sulfhydryl groups of proteins and reducing glutathione.…”

“…4,18 Among them, copper can directly accelerate the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) through reactions such as the Fenton reaction and the Haber-Weiss reaction, and exposure to high levels of copper can significantly reduce glutathione levels. 18,19 Redox reactions of the inactive metals arsenic, lead and cadmium show their toxic effects by binding to sulfhydryl groups of proteins and reducing glutathione. 4,20 A decrease in glutathione and an increase in ROS can reduce the antioxidant defense system of cells and alter the composition and integrity of cell membranes to increase the sensitivity of cells to oxidative attack.…”

The Effect of Tea-Cinnamon and <i>Melissa officinalis</i> L. Aqueous Extraction, on Neuropsychology Distress, Biochemical and Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in Glass Production Workers

“…The following domains were tested: selective attention (10 items), divided attention (4 items), long-term memory (7 items), prospective memory (7 items) and psychomotor retardation (9 items). One item tapped the forgetting of names (for a more through description see [33]- [35].…”