Proteomic responses of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells from individuals residing in high level natural radiation areas of Kerala

This study investigated differential proteomic changes in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from seven male individuals from High Level Natural Radiation Areas (HLNRA) as compared to seven male individuals from the adjoining Normal Level Natural Radiation Areas (NLNRA) of Kerala. Comparative proteomic analysis using two dimensional analysis coupled with mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) identified five proteins that were significantly (fold change ±1.5, p=0.05) altered in individuals from HLNRA as compared to NLNRA: 78 KDa Glucose regulated protein (GRP78), beta/gamma actin (cytoskeletal protein), lactate dehydrogenase (carbohydrate metabolism) and fibrinogen beta and gamma (extracellular proteins). Higher expression of GRP78, which is involved in unfolded protein response, in HLNRA individuals, indicates a possible upregulation of pro-survival pathways with chronic radiation