Lead concentration and the level of glutathione, glutathione S-transferase, reductase and peroxidase in the blood of some occupational workers from Irbid City, Jordan.

Blood samples were collected from 263 lead-exposed suspected males living in Irbid area in the northern part of Jordan. The blood lead concentrations in the samples were determined by atomic absorption and were related to the type of work performed by the workers. The blood lead concentration was higher in metal casters, 41.6, and radiator welders, 32,8 micrograms/dl, compared to non-suspected lead-exposed university students, 5.7 micrograms/dl. Workers such as mechanics, bus drivers, car painters and gas station workers showed slightly higher but not significant blood lead. The blood glutathione content and the activities of glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione S-transferase were also determined in non-suspected subjects and in those with occupational exposure to lead. With increasing blood lead concentration, glutathione content decreases as well as the activities of the glutathione utilizing enzymes.