The Impact Of Azo Dye Exposure On Nrf2 Activation And Oxidative Stress Markers In Textile Workers

Background Azo dyes are widely used in the textile industry for fabric coloring; however, their potential to induce oxidative stress poses significant health concerns. Nrf2 (Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) is a pivotal oxidative stress marker. Methods This study involved 90 male workers: 45 exposed to azo dyes and 45 unexposed (control group). The exposed group was subdivided based on exposure duration into three categories: EG1 (1–10 years), EG2 (11–20 years), and EG3 (>20 years). Nrf2 activity was measured using ELISA, while Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) and Total Oxidative Status (TOS) were assessed via spectrophotometry. Results Exposed workers exhibited significantly higher Nrf2 activity (mean ± SD: 2.06 ± 0.68) than the control group (1.58 ± 0.41, P = 0.000). Additionally, the exposed group showed lower TAC (1.39 ± 0.1 vs. 1.50 ± 0.06, P = 0.000) and higher TOS (0.14 ± 0.05 vs. 0.11 ± 0.03, P = 0.002). Nrf2 levels increased with the duration of exposure (EG1: 1.68 ± 0.37, EG2: 1.92 ± 0.44, EG3: 2.60 ± 0.81), while TOS levels rose (EG1: 0.10 ± 0.04, EG2: 0.13 ± 0.03, EG3: 0.19 ± 0.02), and TAC levels decreased (EG1: 1.49 ± 0.06, EG2: 1.38 ± 0.05, EG3: 1.30 ± 0.09). Discussion The elevation of Nrf2, along with increased TOS and reduced TAC levels, suggests a compensatory antioxidant response to ongoing oxidative burden. These changes reflect the biological impact of chronic exposure to azo dyes. Conclusion These findings highlight the role of azo dyes in inducing oxidative stress among textile workers, emphasizing the urgent need for protective measures to mitigate occupational health risks.