Lipidomic Analysis Reveals Systemic Alterations in Servicemen Exposed to Repeated Occupational Low-Level Blast Waves.

This article focuses on the neurological and biochemical effects of repeated low-level blast exposure experienced occupationally by Indian military servicemen during heavy weapon testing. The study assessed concussion-like symptoms, memory function, and blood-based biomarkers—including neurofilament light chain (NFL) and lipid profiles—comparing 21 blast-exposed servicemen with 16 age-matched controls. Results indicated that repeated blast exposure was associated with memory dysfunction, elevated serum NFL and C-reactive protein levels, and significant alterations in lipid species linked to neuronal membrane integrity and systemic inflammation. These findings suggest that chronic low-level blast exposure can induce neuroaxonal injury and inflammatory responses even in the absence of diagnosed traumatic brain injury, highlighting the need for further large-scale research and mitigation strategies to protect military personnel.