Effect of pollution represented by Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons on the levels of p53 and some antioxidant enzymes in Baghdad traffic police

Objectives: To ascertain the protective effect of p53 tumor protein by monitoring its levels in comparison with the levels of antioxidant enzymes, against any type of cancer that can be caused by chronic exposure of traffic policemen to air pollutants. Methods: This study comprises 140 participants, who have been divided into two groups (Traffic police and Office police). PAHs were analyzed for each participant by GC/FID while p53 protein and antioxidant enzymes were measured by the ELISA technique.  Results: The concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and p53 tumor protein were high in the blood of traffic police compared to office police, while higher levels of antioxidant enzymes (Catalase and G-Px) were observed in the blood of office police. Conclusion: Exposure to PAHs can cause oxidative stress, which can damage DNA and lead to cancer. However, because natural endogenous biomolecules like p53 protein can neutralize PAHs' carcinogenic effects, their elevation has a beneficial anti-cancer effect by reducing oxidative stress and preventing tumorigenesis.