Investigating the relationship between pesticide exposure, GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphisms, and oxidative stress biomarkers in affected farmers.

Abstract

Organophosphate pesticides, widely used in agriculture, are effective in pest control but pose environmental and health risks through soil, water, and air contamination. Exposure to these chemicals is linked to adverse human health effects, underscoring the need for environmentally sustainable practices. This study aimed to assess urinary organophosphate metabolites and examine the relationship between GSTM1 and GSTT1 gene polymorphisms with biomarkers of oxidative stress among farmers in Himachal Pradesh exposed to pesticides. We collected urine samples (50 mL) from the exposed group to detect organophosphate metabolites using GC-MS. Blood samples (5 mL) were also obtained for GSTM1 and GSTT1 genotyping and assessment of antioxidant enzyme activities. The results showed decreased enzymatic activity of SOD (2.92 ± 1.07) and catalase (12.60 ± 3.15) in the exposed group, with increased MDA levels (4.14 ± 1.36), compared with the unexposed group (SOD: 7.04 ± 1.34, catalase: 25.75 ± 2.20, MDA: 1.15 ± 0.18). No significant associations (p > .05) were found between GSTM1 or GSTT1 genotypes and SOD, catalase, or MDA activities. The study concluded that prolonged pesticide exposure induces oxidative stress linked to specific genetic variations, suggesting directions for further research into the toxicogenetics of pesticide exposure and its health implications.