Investigating the Expression Levels of Bax and Bcl-2 Genes in Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes of Industrial Radiation Workers in the Asaluyeh Region

Background: Industrial radiography uses gamma or X-ray radionuclide sources to investigate the safety of industrial materials. Industrial radiation workers receive the highest occupational radiation doses.

Objective: The present study investigates the relationship between Bax and Bcl-2 gene expression variables in industrial radiation workers.

Material and methods: In this case-control study, data was collected using blood sampling from 40 workers, including two groups of non-radiation and radiation workers employed at the location. Expression levels of Bax and Bcl-2 genes were assessed in the laboratory. The environmental and absorbed doses of workers were measured using environmental and pen dosimeters.

Results: Statistical analysis showed that the radiation group's Bcl-2 gene expression level was significantly higher. Findings also demonstrated a correlation between Bcl-2 gene expression and the number of workdays. Also, the Bax gene expression did not show a significant change, and the expression ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 was insignificant in the two groups.

Conclusion: Exposure to low doses of radiation could promote an adaptive response in cells by increasing Bcl-2 gene expression.