Absence of mutations in the human interferon alpha-2b gene in workers chronically exposed to ionising radiation.

Individuals chronically exposed to low-level ionising radiation (IR) run the risk of harmful and long-term adverse health effects, including gene mutations and cancer development. The search for reliable biomarkers of IR exposure in human population is still of great interest, as they may have a great implementation potential for the surveillance of occupationally exposed individuals. In this context, and considering previous literature, this study aimed to identify mutations in the human interferon alpha-2b (hIFNα-2b) as a potential biomarker of occupational chronic low-dose IR exposure linking low-IR exposure to the effects on haematopoiesis and reduced immunity.

[Polymorphic markers of some genes associated with multiple sclerosis in the population of Kazakhstan].

Associations of DR2 specificity of the DRB1gene and single-nucleotide polymorphisms of the tumor necrosis factor gene TNFalpha (-308 G/A), interleukin genes IL-beta (-511 C/T), IL-2 (-475 A/T and -631 G/A), IL-6(-634 C/G), paraoxanase gene PON1 (M55L, Q192R), and the mitochondrial protein transport gene UCP2 (-866 G/A) with the development of multiple sclerosis (MS) were studied in two main ethnic groups of Kazakhstan (Kazakhs and Russians). An association of DR2 specificity of the DRBI gene with MS was found in the combined group of Kazakhs, Russians, and offsprings from mixed marriages. No correlation between DR2 specificity and MS was found in the separately examined groups of Kazakhs and Russians.