Immune markers and gene polymorphism in children exposed to heavy metals

The features of immune regulation and genetic markers in children living with a high content of heavy metals in drinking water were investigated. We revealed an increase in phagocytic activity, decreased serum IgA, elevated level of specific IgG antibodies to strontium and IgE to manganese, as well as reducing intensity of apoptosis via the Fas-receptor and TNFR and regulatory marker p53. Genetic variability of the child population was determined by the appearance of the mutant homozygous genotype variants in genes of FAS-receptor and MMP9, and increased frequency of minor homozygotes TP53 in the target group.