Effects of Trichloroethylene on p53 and Bcl-2 Expression, Chromosome Loss and Catalase Activity Inhibition in Human

Abstract

Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a common organic solvent that has been widely used in industrial applications. TCE is highly lipophilic and readily absorbed into the circulation following oral, dermal or inhalation exposure. The purpose of this study is to examine the alterations of p53 and Bcl-2 expression, chromosome loss and catalase activity inhibition after treatment with TCE. Human lymphocytes were cultured with various doses of TCE for 24 h. Quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) technique, chromosome culture technique and catalase activity assay were performed in human lymphocyte cultures. The results of Quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis showed up-regulated expression in the experimental groups comparison with the control groups of p53 gene [0.016 mM/L (1.4-fold) and Bcl-2 gene [0.008 mM/L (1.4-fold) and 0.016 mM/L (1.6-fold)]. Loss of chromosome 8 and 22 were observed. Catalase activity was reduced when TCE concentration increased (p<0.05). It is indicated that TCE effects on p53 and Bcl-2 gene expression, chromosome loss and catalase activity inhibition. These effects may lead to the onset of cancer in the future.