Changes in Gene Expression in Healthcare Workers During Night Shifts: Implications for Immune Response and Health Risks

Purpose: This study aimed to analyze gene expression changes in the whole blood of healthcare workers before and after a night shift, to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying these changes and their potential impact on health. Methods: A single-center, prospective, observational study was conducted involving four medical doctors working night shifts in the emergency department. Blood samples were collected at 10 a.m. on the day of work and at 10 a.m. the following day after the shift. RNA sequencing was performed to analyze gene expression changes, followed by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) for core analysis and analysis match. Results: A total of 302 genes were upregulated, and 78 genes were downregulated (p < 0.05, |log2-fold change| > 0.5) after the night shift. Core analysis consistently predicted the activation of immune and inflammatory responses. Analysis match indicated that gene expression patterns after the night shift correlated with several diseases, including major depressive disorder, based on immune and inflammatory response profiles. Overall design: Blood samples were collected before and after the night shift. RNA was extracted from whole blood, and RNA sequencing was performed to analyze gene expression changes.