Analysis and quantification of double-stranded DNA breaks in blood lymphocytes by detection of γ-H2AX foci during a body mass increase

Abstract

The research aims to investigate the relationship of body mass index indicators on the appearance and nature of damage to the genetic material of lymphocyte cells in patients with diagnosed obesity without concomitant pathological conditions. The research methods included anthropometry, biochemical blood examination, immunofluorescence analysis, and static data processing. Characterization of nuclear damage was assessed by studying the phosphorylated histone protein γ-H2AX loci in circulating lymphocytes (computational tool – AKLIDES). The study sample comprised 235 adult patients, categorized into four groups based on body mass index, with randomization conducted for age and sex matching between the groups. BMI increased with higher degrees of obesity. DNA damage in lymphocytes showed significant differences among groups, particularly in overweight patients. Correlations between BMI and various DNA damage indices suggest a relationship between body weight and genetic material breakage in circulating lymphocytes. The analysis of the data revealed that the number of deoxyribonucleic acid double-strand breaks per lymphocyte as well as the number of nuclei with break foci and the break diameter itself correlated with the body mass index and in some cases with the waist/hip index as well as the waist/height index. The results of the work can be used to improve treatment protocols for obese patients, as well as implemented in preventive programs to prevent the development of overweight and type 2 diabetes mellitus.