IMMUNOLOGY TEXTBOOK - Mercury Podillia 2013

IMMUNOTOXIC IMPACT OF ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS ON THE HUMAN BODY

Major Environmental Pollution Factors

Heavy metals. Highly toxic agents that inhibit the functional activity of numerous enzyme systems within the body. Even low-level exposure to heavy metals can cause severe physiological impairments, with the nervous and reproductive systems being particularly vulnerable. This poses a significant threat of prenatal disorders and Mutations. Mercury can enter open Water bodies through metal vapor Condensation and industrial wastewater discharge. Such vapors also emanate from landfills and incinerators lacking advanced neutralization, filtration, and recycling systems.

Cadmium, lead, tin, and zinc. Sources include industrial emissions and mining waste. Cadmium, for instance, is widely used in The production of paints, alloys, fluorescent light bulbs, pesticides, and nuclear Reactor components.

Synthetic Organic compounds such as plastics, synthetic fibers, varnishes, paints, Solvents, pesticides, and wood preservatives are often non-biodegradable. Consequently, they enter cellular METABOLISM without completely breaking down, sometimes forming even more toxic byproducts. These substances exhibit carcinogenic, mutagenic, and teratogenic properties. Phenols, polyaromatic compounds, and halogenated Hydrocarbons (PAHs, DDT, dioxins, polychlorinated biphenyls) are of particular concern.

Nitrates and nitrites. Water contaminated with these compounds poses the greatest danger to children under 12 years of age. A child's Stomach does not produce sufficient acid to inhibit colonies of nitrate-reducing Bacteria, which convert nitrates into highly toxic nitrites. However, nitroso compounds can also form in the adult stomach, causing acute intoxication. In infants, this leads to methemoglobinemia (commonly known as "blue baby syndrome"), a condition where red Blood Cells lose their oxygen-carrying capacity, which can be fatal. The primary source of nitrates and nitrites is agricultural fertilizers.

Maintaining the proper mineral balance in drinking water is critically important. Fluorine, iodine, chlorine, selenium, calcium, and many other Trace Elements are essential for life. A deficiency or excess of these ions in local water supplies is a serious issue; failing to address it—even through pharmacological means—leads to catastrophic consequences, including pandemic-level diseases.

Electromagnetic radiation (exposure to electromagnetic fields and waves, particularly in the meter, decimeter, and centimeter ranges).

Indoor sources of electromagnetic fields are divided into two main categories: internal and external.

Internal sources:

- electrical wiring (building interiors, telecommunications);

- household appliances (refrigerators, irons, vacuum cleaners, electric stoves, televisions) and other electrical devices;

- distribution boards and transformers;

- personal computers.

Together, these create "household electrosmog" or ambient 50 Hz industrial-frequency electromagnetic fields indoors. Microwave ovens, air fryers, frost-free refrigerators, kitchen extractor hoods, electric stoves, and televisions are among the most powerful EMF emitters. The actual EMF generated by equipment of the same type can vary significantly depending on the specific model and operating mode.

Personal computers. The core components of a personal computer (PC) include the system unit (processor) and various input/output devices such as keyboards, disk drives, printers, and scanners, alongside a visual display unit (the monitor). PCs are frequently equipped with surge protectors, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and other auxiliary electrical gear. During operation, all these elements generate complex electromagnetic fields around the user's workspace. According to generalized data, individuals who work in front of a monitor for 2 to 6 hours a day experience a higher incidence of functional Disorders of the Central Nervous system, cardiovascular diseases, and musculoskeletal disorders.

External sources of electromagnetic radiation:

✵ electric transport (trams, trolleybuses, electric trains);

✵ high-voltage power transmission lines;

✵ television and radio broadcasting stations (transmitting antennas);

✵ satellite and cellular communications (transmitting antennas);

✵ radars.

The propagation range of a magnetic field depends on the magnitude of the electric current or the line load. Because the load on power lines fluctuates frequently throughout the day and across seasons, the dimensions of the elevated magnetic field zone change accordingly.

The impact of electromagnetic fields on human health. Electromagnetic fields are frequently the underlying cause of various pathological conditions. Generally speaking, the Adverse effects of these fields manifest as dysfunctions in the nervous, immune, and endocrine systems, as well as the human reproductive sphere. According to the WHO International Program on the BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF Electromagnetic Fields (2000–2004): "It is hypothesized that medical outcomes such as Cancer, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases, and other conditions, including elevated suicide rates, result from exposure to electromagnetic fields." Numerous studies on the biological effects of EMFs identify the most sensitive human systems as the nervous, immune, endocrine, and reproductive systems. EMF exposure poses a particularly severe threat to children, pregnant women, individuals with central nervous, endocrine, or cardiovascular disorders, and those suffering from allergies or immune-mediated diseases. The biological effects of long-term, multi-year EMF exposure are cumulative, potentially leading to delayed long-term consequences, including:

- degenerative processes and dysfunctions of the central nervous system;

- psychosomatic manifestations, psycho-emotional disorders, and a predisposition to depression;

- leukemias;

- Brain Tumors;

- Endocrine System disorders;

- pronounced Changes in the body's immune status.

The NEGATIVE IMPACT OF electromagnetic fields on The Human Body is mediated by quite complex mechanisms governing biochemical processes at THE CELLULAR LEVEL, specifically through the suppression or alteration of the electrochemical properties of molecules and ions during cellular metabolism. When exposed to electromagnetic waves, an alternating electric current is induced in the human body (as in any conductor), changing its direction in accordance with the orientation of the electromagnetic waves. In biological Tissues, alongside normal biochemical processes, various electrochemical phenomena begin to occur (similar to a galvanic circuit), which disrupt the cellular chemistry, damage defense mechanisms, and render tissues vulnerable to various bacterial and viral agents. Furthermore, electromagnetic waves contribute to the destruction of formed blood elements, especially erythrocytes. Ferromagnetic iron, contained within Hemoglobin, is affected by electromagnetic fields, leading to the "string-of-pearls effect" (where formed blood elements tend to align along the lines of force of the field). Because the field rapidly alternates its direction, the cells begin to rotate and collide with one another, resulting in mechanical destruction through mutual collisions and the release of their breakdown products, which alters The chemical composition of the blood. Similar changes have been observed following exposure to ionizing radiation. The nervous, immune, endocrine, and reproductive systems are particularly sensitive to electromagnetic fields within the human body.

Effects of electromagnetic fields on The Nervous System. A vast body of research and monographic syntheses identify the nervous system as one of the most sensitive systems of the human body to electromagnetic fields. Low-intensity field exposure causes significant abnormalities in Nerve Impulse transmission at the level of neuronal bioelectrochemical Relay stations (synapses). It also leads to the suppression of Higher Nervous Activity and impaired memory. The capillary blood-brain barrier Structure is compromised, which over time can result in unexpected pathological manifestations. The nervous System of the embryo during late stages of prenatal development exhibits particular sensitivity to electromagnetic exposure.

Effects of electromagnetic fields on The Immune System. Currently, a substantial amount of data indicates the adverse impact of electromagnetic fields on the body's immunological reactivity. It has also been established that electromagnetic exposure alters the character of infectious processes, exacerbating their course through The Development of autoimmune reactions. In most cases, this pathological state is characterized by a deficiency of the lymphocytic link, caused by the suppression of Thymus function resulting from electromagnetic radiation. High-intensity electromagnetic fields can also trigger non-specific immunosuppressive reactions, as well as autoimmune reactions that damage the embryo at various stages of its development.

Effects of electromagnetic fields on the endocrine system. Research by Russian scientists beginning in the 1960s demonstrated that electromagnetic field exposure stimulates the Pituitary Gland, accompanied by an increased blood adrenaline level, inadequate activation of the sympathoadrenal system and Blood Coagulation processes, and increased secretion of Steroid Hormones by the Adrenal Glands. Under continued exposure to the damaging factor, this depletes the body's adaptive reserves and fosters the development of corresponding diseases against the backdrop of decreased immune and interferon status, as well as disrupted lipid, carbohydrate, and electrolyte metabolism. Over time, distinct morphological changes emerge in The structure of the adrenal cortex and the Hypothalamus.

Effects of electromagnetic fields on the Reproductive System. Reproductive dysfunction is typically associated with altered regulation by the nervous and endocrine-regulatory systems, as well as a sharp decline in gonadal activity. It has been established that the FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM is more sensitive to electromagnetic exposure than the male system. Moreover, the sensitivity of embryonic tissues to electromagnetic fields during prenatal development is many times higher than that of the maternal Organism. It is believed that exposure to electromagnetic radiation during various stages of Pregnancy can disrupt normal embryonic development, affect the timing of Organogenesis for various fetal Organs and systems, and lead to premature birth. The periods of maximum sensitivity correspond to the Cytology/cytology/16.html">Early stages of embryonic development, specifically implantation and early organogenesis. In men, potential outcomes include erectile dysfunction, a reduced sperm count, and decreased sperm motility.

General effects of electromagnetic fields on the human body. The results of clinical studies conducted in Ukraine, Russia, and European countries have demonstrated that prolonged contact with microwave-range electromagnetic fields can lead to a condition known as "radio wave sickness." The clinical picture of this disorder is determined primarily by functional changes in the nervous and cardiovascular systems. Individuals exposed to radiation for extended periods complain of weakness, irritability, fatigue, memory impairment, and Sleep disturbances. These symptoms are frequently accompanied by Autonomic nervous system dysfunctions. Cardiovascular manifestations include hypotension, cardialgia, and pulse instability. Individuals continuously exposed to radiation (such as military personnel) exhibit structural changes in the Bone Marrow characterized by increased regeneration rates. After 1 to 3 years, some individuals develop a sense of inner tension and restlessness, along with impaired attention, memory, and concentration. Complaints arise regarding poor sleep quality and increased daytime fatigue. There is also evidence of psychiatric disorders occurring in individuals systematically exposed for over 5 years to electromagnetic waves with field strengths close to permissible limits.

The energy of interaction between Electromagnetic Waves and the human body depends on the amplitude of electromagnetic field oscillations (which can reach extremely high levels near high-voltage power lines), the oscillation frequency (which depends on wavelength), and the electrical resistance of biological tissues. There is a very high dependency on wavelength: the closer it is to the dimensions of the body, specific body parts, or particular organs, the more efficient the interaction becomes. Consequently, current intensity can increase dramatically under Resonance conditions, where the body as a whole, or parts of it and individual organs, begin to function as cavity resonators tuned to the corresponding frequency. For this reason, meter, decimeter, and centimeter waves are the most hazardous, even at relatively low electromagnetic field amplitudes. High amplitudes near powerful radio Transmitters of any frequency range or near high-voltage transmission lines inevitably exert a significant negative impact on the human body. The intensity of this adverse effect increases with the magnitude of the current passing through the body; under otherwise identical conditions, it is greater where electrical conductivity is higher (and tissue resistance is correspondingly lower), such as in nerve tissues and the brain. Damage to brain tissue impairs its regulatory function, leading to a progressive escalation of functional disorders in the body's organs and systems. It must be taken into account that the electrical resistance of the human body can vary by a factor of 10 to 15 among different individuals. Accordingly, the severity of injuries sustained under identical conditions varies significantly as well. Tissues of young organisms (embryos, infants, adolescents) possess particularly high conductivity, and the younger the tissue, the greater the damaging properties of electromagnetic radiation. Therefore, pregnant women should not spend prolonged periods near operating computers and other sources of electromagnetic waves. Given the expanding use of wireless communication tools and radio-electronic devices, a continuous increase in the prevalence of immune-mediated and other diseases, as well as a worsening of their clinical course, can be anticipated.

Among the vast array of radio-electronic equipment (radio transmitters, television transmitters, relay stations, radars, high-voltage power lines), the sources of electromagnetic waves that pose a real hazard to users within a 3-meter radius are computers, microwave ovens, and mobile communication devices. During a mobile phone call, approximately 70–80% of the emitted energy is consumed in generating an electric current within the Tissues of the HEAD, particularly in the user's brain. When standby mode is active and no call is underway, the phone's transmitter continues to operate at a significantly lower radiation intensity; however, given the prolonged duration of microwave exposure, certain health impairments may still arise. The habit of carrying mobile phones at chest level (in a breast pocket) or near the reproductive organs (in a side jacket pocket, trouser pocket, or on a belt) is particularly harmful. To prevent the adverse effects of electromagnetic radiation, the device should be kept away from the body (carried in a bag, using a headset for calls, or enabling speakerphone mode), call duration should be limited to a few minutes per call and no more than 30 minutes total per day, "sleep modes" should be utilized, the phone with an active alarm clock should not be placed near the bed, preschool and early school-aged children should be prohibited from using mobile communication devices, adolescents should be educated on the dangers of prolonged contact with radiation sources, and The Use of the device for non-essential purposes (such as gaming, internet browsing, watching movies or video clips, viewing large blocks of text, using SMS, MMS, chat Functions, etc.) should be restricted.

Noise and vibration. Modern research demonstrates that noise and vibration degrade living and working conditions and quality of life, exert adverse effects on the human body, disrupt a person's general neurological state, provoke undesirable psychological and physiological reactions, diminish the protective Properties of the immune system, increase overall morbidity, and lead to occupational diseases.

Noise is an unpleasant or unwanted sound, or a combination of sounds, that interferes with the perception of useful signals, disturbs silence, exerts a pathological or irritating effect on the human body, and contributes to reduced working capacity.

Sources of noise. The level of noise intensity in residential premises depends on the building's Location relative to urban noise sources, the internal layout of rooms with various functions, The Nature of sound insulation, the presence of enclosing structures, and the building's equipment with engineering, technological, and sanitary-technical systems. Sources of noise in the human environment fall into two groups: internal and external.

External sources:

✵ various modes of transportation (land, water, air);

✵ industrial and energy enterprises and installations;

✵ various intra-block noise sources associated with human activity (e.g., sports and playgrounds, etc.).

Internal sources:

✵ engineering, technological, household, and sanitary-technical equipment, as well as noise sources generated directly by human activity;

✵ elevators, pumps, garbage chutes, and ventilation systems;

✵ pneumatic and electric tools, machine tools, centrifuges, bunkers, and other equipment with moving parts.

The impact of noise on the human body. Noise is a general biological stimulus and, under certain conditions, can affect all organs and systems of the holistic organism, causing various physiological changes. Noise acts on the body as a stress factor that alters the functioning of the Auditory Analyzer and, due to the close connection of the auditory system with numerous neural centers, can trigger pathological developments in the central nervous system.

The most dangerous is the prolonged exposure to noise, which can lead to noise-induced Hearing loss—a generalized condition of the body characterized primarily by damage to the organs of hearing, the central nervous system, and The Cardiovascular system.

Vibration. Scientific, technological progress, and urbanization have led to an increase in environmental vibration factors. The problem of vibration in residential buildings has become particularly acute due to the construction of underground metro systems. Operational experience with underground trains has shown that vibration penetrates adjacent residential buildings within a radius of 40–70 m on both sides of the tunnel, exerting a negative impact on the occupants.

Sources of vibration: external and internal.

External sources include the metro system, heavy trucks, railway trains, trams, and other vehicles that generate significant dynamic loads during operation, causing vibration to propagate through the soil and building structures themselves. Vibration is also frequently a cause of indoor noise in residential buildings.

Internal sources include engineering and sanitary-technical equipment located in adjacent rooms of an apartment or office, elevators, pumps, machinery, transformers, and operating centrifuges.

The impact of vibration on human health. The degree of adverse effects from vibration depends on its level or the distance to the source of low-frequency oscillations, the time of day, age, occupation, and the person's state of health. Vibration penetrating residential spaces, As a result of round-the-clock prolonged exposure, can adversely affect urban residents. Studies conducted in one of the regions of Germany showed that industrial enterprises and transport in a major city are among the causes of vibration discomfort in apartments. Of the total number of respondents, 42% of residents complained of a mild sense of discomfort, 15.5% reported significant discomfort, 14.4% complained of an irritating effect, and only 27.5% experienced no inconvenience. With short-term exposure to vibration (1.5 years), functional disorders of the central nervous system come to the forefront. In the population group with a longer duration of residence (7 years) in the vibration exposure zone, disorders of the nervous and cardiovascular systems are registered more frequently.

When studying the immunological status of surveyed population groups suffering from the EFFECTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL immunotoxic factors, attention should be paid to the following indicators:

- initially, The activity of natural resistance factors decreases (phagocytic activity of neutrophils and macrophages, interferon production). It should be noted that after avoiding exposure to harmful factors, immune activity does not return to its previous baseline levels;

- with prolonged exposure to harmful factors, disorders are observed in the T-Cell link (breakdown of immune tolerance, decrease in the activity and number of T-helper cells) and the B-cell link (decrease in the Specificity and number of anti-infective Antibodies, increased synthesis of autoantibodies, and elevated IgG levels);

- the incidence of allergic diseases (due to pollutant activation of the Th2 cell population) and autoimmune diseases (activation of autoreactive lymphocytes) increases;

- due to a decrease in the activity and number of NK cells, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome develops, clinical manifestations of neuroinfections appear, and the risk of oncological diseases increases.

Taking the aforementioned into account, the specific epidemiological and Clinical Features of infectious diseases occurring against the Background of environmentally unfavorable factors include:

- a high frequency of opportunistic Infections caused by opportunistic microorganisms;

- a tendency toward protracted and chronic infectious processes with prolonged persistence of pathogens within the body;

- the presence among the population (especially children) of a significant group of frequently and chronically ill individuals.

Consequently, the development and course of many diseases largely depend on the state of the immune system. Various functional disorders of the immune system can cause secondary immunodeficiency and lead to the onset or Exacerbation of chronic bacterial and viral diseases. The frequent use of standard Treatment regimens in these cases does not yield the expected positive effect. To increase the efficacy of etiotropic therapy and reduce adverse side effects arising from its use (dysbiosis, hepatotoxicity, etc.) in secondary immunodeficiency, immunocorrection using immunomodulatory agents is a promising approach.

Main areas of immunorehabilitation:

- avoiding contact with environmentally unfavorable factors;

- normalizing lifestyle, work, and rest regimens;

- altering dietary habits (diet optimization, development of individual Nutrition programs, etc.);

- using immunomodulatory drugs depending on the nature of immunological disorders and the type of developed secondary immunodeficiency;

- developing comprehensive therapy and immunorehabilitation programs (detoxification, antioxidant therapy, Prevention of gastrointestinal tract diseases), prescribing physiotherapeutic Procedures (thermal and electrical procedures targeting the thymus, Sternum/bone marrow, and BIOPTRON light therapy);

- correcting the microelement balance based on results of determining trace element levels in metabolically active cellular substrates of the body (blood cells, Skin Appendages—Hair, Nails, and other biological fluids);

- conducting in-depth examinations of patients by specialists in accordance with identified clinical and laboratory health disorders;

- patients must be under the dispensary supervision of an immunologist.