Characteristic molecular signatures of early exposure to volatile organic compounds in rat liver

Abstract

Objective: Investigation on whether the characteristic molecular signatures can discriminate individual volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and provide predictive markers for the detection of VOC exposure. Methods: Transcriptomic analysis of liver tissues was performed 48 h after the single oral administration of three VOCs doses at LD25 or LD5 values, to Sprague-Dawley. Results: Combination analysis of different multi-classifications suggested that 145 genes predicted VOC exposure. Additionally, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis of genes deregulated by VOCs revealed that T cell prolymphatic leukemia signaling was inactivated in all VOCs. Conclusions: These molecular markers could be widely implemented to assess and predict environmental exposure to VOCs.