MINIMAL TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURIES INDUCED BY OCCUPATIONAL WHOLE‑BODY VIBRATIONS. LONG‑TERM NEURODEGENERATIVE EFFECTS AND THE ROLE OF OXIDATIVE STRESS, INFLAMMATORY MECHANISMS AND DENTAL CORRELATIONS

Authors: Ahmed Adel Mansour KAMAR, Manuela Pădurariu, Alin‑Stelian CIOBÎCĂ

Abstract:

Minimal traumatic brain injuries (mi‑TBI) and occupational microtraumas, particularly those induced by low‑frequency vibrations such as whole‑body vibration (WBV) and hand‑arm vibration (HAV), are increasingly linked to progressive chronic neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders. Despite their prevalence in occupational civilian or military population, and sports settings, these injuries often remain underdiagnosed. This review explores the underlying biological mechanisms, including oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and blood brain barrier disruption. It further highlights the relevance of redox biomarkers and cellular responses such as the Nrf2/ ARE pathway activation. The review synthesizes current literature and proposes the integration of molecular neuroscience with occupational health for early detection and intervention. Additionally, the utility of zebrafish as a translational model and the potential of biomarker‑based screening for early detection are discussed. This synthesis advocates for a stronger integration between molecular neuroscience and occupational health to mitigate chronic outcomes from repeated vibration exposure. Chronic exposure to low‑frequency vibrations and mi‑TBI may also impact oral health by promoting periodontal inflammation, impairing tissue repair, and increasing susceptibility to dental complications, highlighting the need for integrated occupational and dental care.