Levels Of Genetic Damage Research Articles

Assisted Phytoremediation between Biochar and Crotalaria pumila to Phytostabilize Heavy Metals in Mine Tailings.

The increasing demand for mineral resources has generated mine tailings with heavy metals (HM) that negatively impact human and ecosystem health. Therefore, it is necessary to implement strategies that promote the immobilization or elimination of HM, like phytoremediation. However, the toxic effect of metals may affect plant establishment, growth, and fitness, reducing phytoremediation efficiency. Therefore, adding organic amendments to mine tailings, such as biochar, can favor the establishment of plants, reducing the bioavailability of HM and its subsequent incorporation into the food chain. Here, we evaluated HM bioaccumulation, biomass, morphological characters, chlorophyll content, and genotoxic damage in the herbaceous Crotalaria pumila to assess its potential for phytostabilization of HM in mine tailings. The study was carried out for 100 days on plants developed under greenhouse conditions under two treatments (tailing substrate and 75% tailing/25% coconut fiber biochar substrate); every 25 days, 12 plants were selected per treatment. C. pumila registered the following bioaccumulation patterns: Pb > Zn > Cu > Cd in root and in leaf tissues. Furthermore, the results showed that individuals that grew on mine tailing substrate bioaccumulated many times more metals (Zn: 2.1, Cu: 1.8, Cd: 5.0, Pb: 3.0) and showed higher genetic damage levels (1.5 times higher) compared to individuals grown on mine tailing substrate with biochar. In contrast, individuals grown on mine tailing substrate with biochar documented higher chlorophyll a and b content (1.1 times more, for both), as well as higher biomass (1.5 times more). Therefore, adding coconut fiber biochar to mine tailing has a positive effect on the establishment and development of C. pumila individuals with the potential to phytoextract and phytostabilize HM from polluted soils. Our results suggest that the binomial hyperaccumulator plant in combination with this particular biochar is an excellent system to phytostabilize soils contaminated with HM.

Measurement of chromosomal instability and level of DNA damage in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of endometrial cancer patients.

Endometrial cancer is one of the most common invasive gynecologic malignancies in developed countries. The aim of this study was to evaluate chromosomal instability and level of DNA damage in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of newly diagnosed endometrial cancer patients in relation to health status (diagnosis), age, histological grade of cancer, residence, smoking, number of pregnancies, miscarriages, and abortions. The analyzed sample consisted of 60 individuals, 30 endometrial cancer patients with an average age of 64.37 ± 7.08, and 30 healthy control women with an average age of 60.23 ± 11.55. Chromosomal instability was evaluated by the cytokinesis-block micronucleus (CBMN) assay, and the level of DNA damage by the single-cell gel electrophoresis (comet) assay in PBMCs. The average frequencies of micronuclei (MNi), nucleoplasmic bridges (NPBs) as well as nuclear buds (NBUDs) were significantly higher in cancer patients compared to controls (P < .0005). There was no difference in the nuclear division index (NDI) among the analyzed samples. The comet assay showed that the patients had a significantly increased genetic damage index (GDI) compared with controls (P < .0005). Using linear regression analysis, we found that health status (diagnosis) had the strongest influence on the MN frequency as well as GDI (P < .0005). Our results indicated that there is a high level of genetic damage in both the level of DNA and the level of chromosomes in the PBMCs of newly diagnosed patients with endometrial cancer, where the frequency and level of damage were significantly affected by health status, grade of cancer, residence, number of pregnancies, miscarriages, and abortions.

Cytogenetic monitoring as a method of integrated assessment of urbanized territories of Rivne city, analysis of the state of the problem

Summary. Among the cities of Ukraine, in terms of population and parametric characteristics of man-made impact on urban ecosystems, the city of Rivne stands out. Excesses of various mutagens are regularly recorded in its atmospheric air. In view of this, there is a need to control the processes of air pollution in the city, study the nature of mutagenic substances, prevent the growth of man-made pollution, and find means and methods to protect living organisms from mutagenic effects. The aim of the study – to conduct a bioindication of the urban ecosystem of Rivne on the indicators of cytogenetic monitoring. Materials and Methods. To assess the environmental situation against the general mutagenic background, we used a rapid screening method – micronucleus test (MN test). To detect cells with micronuclei, smears were taken from the oral mucosa of 167 preschool children (6–7 years old) living on 12 test sites. Sampling was performed under sterile conditions, from the right, left cheek and lower lip. Analysis of the prepared cells was performed using a microscope. 64950 epithelial cells of the mucous membrane were studied. Results. According to ecological maps, the territory of the city, which is within III, IV, IX, X, and XII test sites, has a "low" level of genetic damage, which determines the "reference" ecological situation on a mutagenic background. Such characteristics allow us to assess the state of the urban ecosystem in this area of ​​the city as "favorable". However, the analysis of the situation on some test sites allows us to note that the northeastern (III and IV test sites) and the south-eastern (XII test site) parts of the city have slightly higher rates of genetic damage compared to the south-western (IX and X test sites) part. The rest of the test sites have a "below average" level of genetic damage, which causes a "satisfactory" environmental situation with a mutagenic background and an "alarming" state of the urban ecosystem. At the same time, the highest values ​​of the MN test of epitheliocytes of preschool children are characteristic of the north-western (I test site) and south-eastern. The obtained dependence and high coefficient of determination (0.35) indicate a significant relationship between the MN index and pollen sterility of indicator plants, which were performed on similar 12 test sites. Nevertheless, it should be noted that the vulnerability of pollen grains of bioindicator plants was significantly higher (in terms of damage) compared to the MN index, which is explained by the higher resistance to environmental factors of children compared to pollen grains of indicator plants. Conclusions. Analysis of research results indicates that the urban ecosystem of Rivne is at a level "below ave­rage" of genetic damage, "alarming" in the state of the biosystem, and "satisfactory" in the mutagenic background

Impacts of di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate on Folsomia candida (Collembola) assessed with a multi-biomarker approach

Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is extensively used as an additive to produce plastics, but it may damage non-target organisms in soil. In this study, the effects of DEHP on Folsomia candida in terms of survival, reproduction, enzyme activities, and DNA damage were investigated in spiked artificial soil using a multi-biomarker strategy. The 7-day LC50 (median lethal concentration) and 28-day EC50 (median effect concentration) values of DEHP were 1256.25 and 19.72 mg a.i. (active ingredient) kg-1 dry soil, respectively. Biomarkers involved in antioxidant defense including catalase (CAT-catalase), glutathione S-transferases (GST), detoxifying enzymes including acetylcholinesterase (AChE), Cytochrome P450 (CYP450), and peroxidative damage (LPO-lipid peroxide) were also measured (EC10, EC20, and EC50) after exposure for 2, 4, 7, and 14 days. The Comet assay was also applied to assess the level of genetic damage. The activity of CAT and LPO was drastically enhanced by the highest dose (EC50) of DEHP on day two. The activities of GST and AChE in DEHP treatment groups were found to be blocked. In contrast, the activity of CYP450 was significantly enhanced compared to the respective control groups during the first four days of incubation. The Comet assay in F.candida demonstrated that DEHP (EC50) could induce DNA damage. The obtained multi-biomarker data were analyzed using an integrated biomarker response (IBR) index, indicating that limited-time exposure triggered higher stress than long-term exposure at low concentrations of DEHP. These results demonstrate that DEHP may cause biochemical and genetic toxicity to F. candida, which illustrated the potential risks of DEHP in the soil environment and might affect soil ecosystem processes. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the toxic mechanisms of DEHP on other non-target organisms in soil.

Occupational exposure and markers of genetic damage, systemic inflammation and lung function: a Danish cross-sectional study among air force personnel

Air force ground crew personnel are potentially exposed to fuels and lubricants, as raw materials, vapours and combustion exhaust emissions, during operation and maintenance of aircrafts. This study investigated exposure levels and biomarkers of effects for employees at a Danish air force military base. We enrolled self-reported healthy and non-smoking employees (n = 79) and grouped them by exposure based on job function, considered to be potentially exposed (aircraft engineers, crew chiefs, fuel operators and munition specialists) or as reference group with minimal occupational exposure (avionics and office workers). We measured exposure levels to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and organophosphate esters (OPEs) by silicone bands and skin wipes (PAHs only) as well as urinary excretion of PAH metabolites (OH-PAHs). Additionally, we assessed exposure levels of ultrafine particles (UFPs) in the breathing zone for specific job functions. As biomarkers of effect, we assessed lung function, plasma levels of acute phase inflammatory markers, and genetic damage levels in peripheral blood cells. Exposure levels of total PAHs, OPEs and OH-PAHs did not differ between exposure groups or job functions, with low correlations between PAHs in different matrices. Among the measured job functions, the UFP levels were higher for the crew chiefs. The exposure level of the PAH fluorene was significantly higher for the exposed group than the reference group (15.9 ± 23.7 ng/g per 24 h vs 5.28 ± 7.87 ng/g per 24 h, p = 0.007), as was the OPE triphenyl phosphate (305 ± 606 vs 19.7 ± 33.8 ng/g per 24 h, p = 0.011). The OPE tris(1,3-dichlor-2-propyl)phosphate had a higher mean in the exposed group (60.7 ± 135 ng/g per 24 h) compared to the reference group (8.89 ± 15.7 ng/g per 24 h) but did not reach significance. No evidence of effects for biomarkers of systemic inflammation, genetic damage or lung function was found. Overall, our biomonitoring study show limited evidence of occupational exposure of air force ground crew personnel to UFPs, PAHs and OPEs. Furthermore, the OH-PAHs and the assessed biomarkers of early biological effects did not differ between exposed and reference groups.

Assessing effects of chronic heavy metal exposure through a multibiomarker approach: the case of Liomys irroratus (Rodentia: Heteromyidae)

Wild animals that inhabit inside mine tailings which contain heavy metals are an excellent study model to conduct ecotoxicological studies that analyze chronic metal exposures at low doses (realistic exposures). This study was conducted in Huautla, Morelos, Mexico, in a mining district where 780,000 tons of wastes were deposited in open air. Liomys irroratus is a small mammal species that lives inside these mine tailings. A multibiomarker approach study was performed to analyze metal bioaccumulation levels (biomarker of exposure) by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, DNA damage levels (biomarker of early effects) through the alkaline comet assay, and population genetic structure and diversity (biomarker of permanent effects), using seven microsatellite loci, in 75 L. irroratus individuals, from two mine tailings and one reference site. Concentrations of aluminum, copper, iron, nickel, lead, and zinc were statistically higher in the liver of exposed individuals. Significant DNA damage levels were registered in the mine tailings groups. Aluminum, lead, and nickel had the highest contribution to the genetic damage levels observed, while aluminum and nickel had the highest contribution to genetic diversity effects. A positive and significant relationship was detected between individual genetic diversity (internal relatedness) and genetic damage (DNA single-strand breaks). Genetic structure of L. irroratus populations revealed that the main source of genetic variation was located within populations. We consider that multibiomarker studies in environmental settings using sentinel species are valuable for environmental risk assessment and ecological responses in chronic exposed populations.

Cytogenetic and Oxidative Status of Cultured Lymphocytes after Exposure to Extracts from Rhizopogon Mushrooms (Agaricomycetes) In Vitro.

In this study, acetone and water extracts obtained from edible mushrooms, Rhizopogon luteolus Fr. and Rh. roseolus (Corda) Th. Fr., containing important bioactive components were used. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and total oxidative stress (TOS) levels were examined on human peripheral lymphocyte culture treated with the respective extracts. Levels of genetic damage and cytotoxic effects of the respective extracts on lymphocytes were also tested. In general, when TAC levels of the extracts on cells were examined, a concentration-dependent increase was observed; a negative correlation was found between TOS data and concentration. Genotoxicity tests (chromosome aberration and micronucleus analysis) revealed that the concentrations of the extract applications did not significantly (P > 0.05) change genotoxicity on human peripheral lymphocyte culture compared to the negative control. Considering all of the results obtained, it was determined that applications of Rh. luteolus and Rh. roseolus extracts, especially at concentrations of 50 and 100 mg/L, increased the TAC value of lymphocytes, which play an important role in the human immune system, without causing genetic or oxidative stress.

Global H3K79 di-methylation mediates DNA damage response to PAH exposure in Chinese coke oven workers.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are the main contaminants of coke oven emissions which can induce serious genetic damage in coke oven workers. Epigenetic alternations play essential roles in the regulation of DNA damage effect of PAHs. Previous studies indicate that H3K79 di-methylation (H3K79me2) is integral in DNA damage repair. However, the potential role of H3K79me2 in DNA damage response (DDR) following PAHs exposure is still unclear. In this study, we recruited 256 male coke oven workers and control workers, and examined H3K79me2 and DNA damage in their peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLCs). The results showed that global H3K79me2 of coke oven workers was 29.3% less than that of the controls (P<0.001). The H3K79me2 was negatively correlated with the concentration of urinary 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHP) (β=-0.235, P<0.001) and level of genetic damage evaluated by comet assay (βTail DNA %=-0.313, P<0.001; βOTM=-0.251, P=0.008). Consistently, we found that benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) inhibited H3K79me2 in immortalized human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells in a time-dependent manner. In order to explore the function of H3K79me2 in PAHs DDR, we established histone 3.1/3.3 K79A mutant cells (H3K79A) to suppress H3K79me2. H3K79A cells showed more serious DNA damage and decreased cell viability than control cells after BaP treatment. In addition, we also found that the expression of DOT1L, the only methyltransferase in H3K79, was repressed by BaP dose-dependently. DOT1L knockdown resulted in decreased H3K79me2 level and aggravated DNA damage after BaP exposure. This suggests that BaP induces H3K79me2 repression via inhibiting DOT1L expression. In conclusion, these findings indicate that PAH exposure decreases the level of global H3K79me2, which is integral for DNA damage response regulation of PAHs.

Morphological, physiological, and genotoxic effects of heavy metal bioaccumulation in Prosopis laevigata reveal its potential for phytoremediation.

Mining industry generates large volumes of waste known as mine tailings, which contain heavy metals (HMs) that generate a risk to environmental health. Thus, remediation of HM pollution requires attention. In this study, HM bioaccumulation, genotoxic damage, and morphological and physiological changes in the tree species Prosopis laevigata were evaluated in order to assess its potential for remediation of mine tailings. P. laevigata plants were established in two treatments (reference substrate and tailing substrate) under greenhouse conditions. Every 2months, six individuals were selected per treatment for 1year. From each individual, macromorphological (height, stem diameter, and number of leaves), micromorphological (stomatal coverage and stomatal index), and physiological parameters (chlorophyll content) were evaluated, as well as the concentration of Pb, Cu, Cd, Cr, Fe, and Zn in root and foliar tissue. Genetic damage was assessed by the comet assay in foliar tissue. These parameters were evaluated in adult individuals established in mine tailings. Roots bioaccumulated significantly more HM compared to foliar tissue. However, the bioaccumulation pattern in both tissues was Fe > Pb > Zn > Cu. The plants in tailing substrate reduced significantly the morphological and physiological characters throughout the experiment. Only the bioaccumulation of Pb affected significantly the levels of genetic damage and the number of leaves, while Zn reduced plant height. The percentage of plants that have translocation factor values greater than 1 are Cu (92.9) > Fe (85.7) > Pb (75.0) > Zn (64.3). P. laevigata has potential to phytoremediate environments contaminated with metals, due to its dominance and establishment in abandoned mine tailings, and its ability to bioaccumulate HM unaffecting plant development, as well as their high levels of HM translocation.

Different working conditions shift the genetic damage levels of pesticide-exposed agriculture workers.

In the current study, we had two main purposes. Firstly, we aimed to compare genetic damages in the agricultural workers of two different types of environmental conditions including the greenhouse and open fields. Secondly, we aimed to compare genetic damages in the total agricultural workers as the exposed group (greenhouse and open field workers) (n = 114) and the non-exposed control group (n = 98) living in the same area in Canakkale, Turkey. For these purposes, we investigated the incidence of micronucleus (MN), nucleoplasmic bridges (NPBs), and nuclear buds (NBUDs) in peripheral blood lymphocytes. We observed that the frequencies of MN, NPB, and NBUD obtained for the greenhouse workers were statistically significantly higher than those obtained for the open field workers. When the results of the control group were compared with those of the total workers, there were statistically significant differences in terms of MN and NBUD frequencies. We found that age and MN were correlated at a significant level in both the agricultural workers and the control group. The MN frequency of the female workers was 1.5 times greater than that of the male workers, and it was a significant level in the agricultural workers.

Risks of genetic damage in offspring conceived using spermatozoa produced during chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

Men who have just started cytotoxic therapy for cancer are uncertain and concerned about whether spermatozoa collected or pregnancies occurring during therapy might be transmitting genetic damage to offspring. There are no comprehensive guidelines on the risks of different doses of the various cytotoxic, and usually genotoxic, antineoplastic agents. To develop a schema showing the risks of mutagenic damage when spermatozoa, exposed to various genotoxic agents during spermatogenesis, are collected or used to produce a pregnancy. A comprehensive literature review was performed updating the data on genetic and epigenetic effects of genotoxic agents on animal and human spermatozoa exposed during spermatogenic development. Relevant data on human spermatozoa and offspring are extremely limited, but there are extensive genetic studies in experimental animals that define sensitivities for specific drugs and times. The animal data were extrapolated to humans based on the stage when the cells were exposed and the relative kinetics of spermatogenesis and were consistent with the limited human data. In humans, alkylating agents and radiation should already induce a high risk of mutations in spermatozoa produced within 1 or 2weeks after initiation of therapy. Topoisomerase II inhibitors and possibly microtubule inhibitors produce the greatest risk at weeks 5-7 of therapy. Nucleoside analogs, antimetabolites, and bleomycin exert their mutagenic effects on spermatozoa collected at 7-10weeks of therapy. A schema showing the time from initiation of therapy at which specific antineoplastic agents can cause significant levels of genetic damage in conceptuses and live offspring was developed. The estimates and methods for computing the level of such risk from an individual patient's treatment regimen will enable patients and counselors to make informed decisions on the use of spermatozoa or continuation of a pregnancy.

Residential exposure to radon and levels of histone γH2AX and DNA damage in peripheral blood lymphocytes of residents of Kowary city regions (Poland)

IntroductionRadon-induced biological effects have been studied mainly through epidemiological investigations, and well-controlled in vitro and in vivo experiments. To provide data explaining radon exposure-induced harmful effects in natural environment, exposure assessment under these conditions is needed. The objective of the study was to examine the level of genetic damage assessed with biomarkers of DNA single- and double-strand breaks (SSBs and DSBs) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells obtained from individuals continuously exposed to Rn in homes. Naturally elevated Rn concentrations in homes can be found in the South of Poland, in Kowary city. MethodsMeasurements of expression of phosphorylated histone γH2AX was used as a marker of DNA double strand breaks. To detect DNA single and double-strand breaks and alkali labile sites, the alkaline comet assay was used. Oxidative damage of DNA was evaluated by formamidopyrimidyne (FPG)-modified comet assay. The blood was collected from 94 volunteers living in Kowary. Subjects were grouped according to their status of living in radon concentration ≥100 Bq/m3 (n = 67), and <100 Bq/m3 (n = 27). ResultsThe statistically significant differences in levels of DNA damage in peripheral lymphocytes assessed with comet assay were found to be associated with levels of radon exposure in indoor air (p = 0.034). DNA damage in the comet assay was significantly correlated with DNA damage assessed with γH2AX staining. ConclusionsResults of the present study indicate the suitability of alkaline comet assay for the detection of DNA damage in peripheral blood lymphocytes of people environmentally exposed to radon.

Characterisation of coastal aquaculture sites in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, using genotoxicity biomarkers

Mollusc aquaculture is highly dependent on environmental quality which, when impacted, can compromise cultivation. Genotoxicity biomarkers were applied to determine organism quality and environmental DNA damage capacity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate three coastal aquaculture areas with different contamination levels situated in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where Perna perna mussels are cultivated for commercialisation and consumption. Mussel haemocytes were evaluated by genotoxic biomarkers at the DNA and chromosome levels. Organism sensitivity was tested after exposure to the carcinogen methyl methanesulfonate, which induced genetic damage when compared to the control organisms. Mussels sampled in aquaculture sites from the polluted Guanabara Bay showed the highest level of genetic damage compared to tourist areas with low urbanisation, which showed values close to zero. It can be concluded that genotoxic biomarkers, such as percentage of DNA in the comet (nucleoid) tail, obtained by the comet assay and micronucleus frequency are useful tools for recognising healthy sites for bivalve culture.

The Baseline Level of Cytogenetic Damage in Lymphocytes and Buccal Epitheliocytes of Lung Cancer Patients

The results of the study of chromosomal aberrations and micronuclei in blood lymphocytes, as well as micronuclei in buccal epithelium cells of 50 untreated men with lung cancer (LC) and 62 control donors, are presented. Using a variety of cytogenetic tests, a significant unidirectional increase in the base level of genetic instability in the cells of the patients was detected compared to the control. It was shown that, in LC patients, the elimination of damaged cells occurs predominantly by necrosis, whereas the frequencies of cells at the apoptosis stage do not differ in patients and control. The age of the patient, smoking status, type, and stage of LC do not have a significant impact on the performance of the baseline level of genetic damage. This fact suggests that the cytogenetic instability of the somatic cells of untreated LC patients is a constant sign that characterizes the genome response to the effect of the oxidative stress accompanying the neoplastic process.

Genotoxicity of intermediate frequency magnetic fields in vitro and in vivo

We assessed genotoxic effects of intermediate frequency magnetic fields (MF) in vitro and in vivo. Rat primary astrocytes were exposed for 24 h to a 7.5 kHz MF at a magnetic flux density of 30 or 300 µT. Male C57BL/6 J mice were exposed continuously for 5 weeks to a 7.5 kHz MF at 12 or 120 μT, and blood samples were collected for the genotoxicity assays. To evaluate possible co-genotoxicity, the in vitro experiments included combined exposure with menadione (an agent that induces mitochondrial superoxide production and DNA damage) and methyl methanesulfonate (an alkylating agent). DNA damage and DNA repair (in vitro) were measured using the alkaline Comet assay and formation of micronuclei was assessed microscopically (in vivo) or using flow cytometry (in vitro). The results did not support genotoxicity or co-genotoxicity of 7.5 kHz MFs at magnetic flux densities up to 300 µT in vitro or in vivo. On the contrary, there was some evidence that exposure to 7.5 kHz MFs might reduce the level of genetic damage. Strongest indication of any biological effects was obtained from measurements of relative cell number, which was significantly and consistently increased after MF exposure in all in vitro experiments. Health implications of this finding are unclear, but it suggests that 7.5 kHz MFs may stimulate cell proliferation or suppress cell death.

ENSAYO DE MICRONÚCLEOS DE CITOMA BUCAL EN TRABAJADORES DE FINCAS FRUTÍCOLAS QUE HAN APLICADO PLAGUICIDAS ALREDEDOR DE QUINCE AÑOS

The application of pesticides is a common practice in agriculture. Many of these chemicals are associated with the induction of genetic damage. The chemical groups used and the methods of application vary from one region to another, what makes it difficult to transfer the evidence of genotoxicity detected in other geographical zones. In this research, the level of genetic damage was evaluated in people that have applied pesticides in fruit plantations of Mendoza, Argentina, for 15 ± 3.15 years. Buccal micronucleus cytome assay was used to determine the frequency of micronuclei and other nuclear alterations. Forty people participated in the study (field workers and a control group). Genetic damage in exposed workers showed an increase in micronucleated cells (p ≤ 0.01), nuclear buds and binucleated cells (p ≤ 0.05) compared to the control group. Sixty five per cent of workers have used between one and three personal protection elements, and 70 % have applied pesticides through a turbo disperser. The type and amount of personal protection elements, as well as the machinery used by these groups should be registered systematically in order to compare the results obtained elsewhere. The detected anomalies did not show statistical associations between the confounder factors and the types of agricultural practices. Biomarkers of genotoxicity that showed statistically significant increases in the exposed group can help to understand the current and future problems of health in the human group studied.

Evaluation of schisandra extract using sandwich-cultured human hepatocytes and b-clear® technology for the prediction of clinically relevant clearance interactions

End-stage renal disease patients present oxidative stress status that increases when they are submitted to hemodialysis (HD). This increase in oxidative stress can affect their genetic material, among other targets. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of using polysulfone membranes coated with vitamin E, during the HD sessions, on the levels of genetic damage of HD patients. Forty-six patients were followed for 6 months, of whom 29 changed from conventional HD to the use of membranes coated with vitamin E. The level of genetic damage was measured using the micronucleus and the comet assays, both before and after the follow-up period. Serum vitamin E concentration was also checked. The obtained results showed that 24% of our patients presented vitamin E deficiency, and this was normalized in those patients treated with vitamin E-coated membranes. Patients with vitamin E deficiency showed higher levels of oxidative DNA damage. After the use of vitamin E-coated membranes we detected a significant decrease in the levels of oxidative damage. Additionally, hemoglobin values increased significantly with the use of vitamin E-coated membranes. In conclusion, the use of vitamin E-coated membranes supposes a decrease on the levels of oxidative DNA damage, and improves the uremic anemia status. Furthermore, the use of this type of membrane was also effective in correcting vitamin E deficiency.

A study of DNA damage in buccal cells of consumers of well- and/or tap-water using the comet assay: Assessment of occupational exposure to genotoxicants.

Because of concerns that natural aquifers in the region of Todos Santos (Baja California Sur, Mexico) might be contaminated by organochlorine pesticides and heavy metals, a case-control study was conducted among consumers and non-consumers of well- and/or tap-water to determine risks to human health. This study was based on a genotoxic evaluation of buccal cells using the Comet assay technique. Levels of DNA damage in the consumers group were significantly higher than those of the control group. However, occupational exposure to genotoxicants showed to be the critical factor rather than water consumption. Taking into account the professions of well- and/or tap-water consumers, agricultural workers exposed directly (those who fumigated) or indirectly (those not involved in fumigating) to agrochemicals showed greater genetic damage than controls. This difference persisted even when age, and whether the person smoked or consumed alcoholic drinks were considered. These factors were not associated with the level of genetic damage observed. Chemical analyses of organochlorine pesticides and heavy metals were carried out to evaluate the water quality of wells, faucets, and surface water of canals consumed by the population and/or used for irrigation. High concentrations of α and β endosulfan were detected in water of surface canals. Although our inventory of agrochemicals employed in the region showed the use of products considered carcinogenic and/or mutagenic, they were not detected by the analytical techniques used. Heavy metals (arsenic, mercury, and lead) were detected in water of some wells used for irrigation and human consumption. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 58:619-627, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

CYTOMORPHOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF BUCCAL CELLS IN BUILDING WORKERS EXPOSED TO POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBON IN AND AROUND COIMBATORE DISTRICT

Objective: Building workers are exposed to a mixture of chemicals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons at the time exposure by inhalation which is suspected to cause genetic damage. The aim of the study was to assess the level of genetic damage in south Indian building workers are exposed to PAHs.Methods: 30 Building workers and standardized control groups are examined for frequencies of micronuclei in buccal epithelial cells.Results: The genetic damage observed in the buccal cells of building workers was significantly higher than in controls. Chewing also related to genetic damage since the observed in PAHs exposed groups with chewers was significantly higher than non-chewing workers.Conclusion: Occupational exposure of PAHs from building workplaces has been associated with increased genetic damage and chewers represent an additional risk factor. Exposure to PAHs may be related to increased risk of cancer in building workers.

Vitamin E-coated dialysis membranes reduce the levels of oxidative genetic damage in hemodialysis patients

End-stage renal disease patients present oxidative stress status that increases when they are submitted to hemodialysis (HD). This increase in oxidative stress can affect their genetic material, among other targets. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of using polysulfone membranes coated with vitamin E, during the HD sessions, on the levels of genetic damage of HD patients. Forty-six patients were followed for 6 months, of whom 29 changed from conventional HD to the use of membranes coated with vitamin E. The level of genetic damage was measured using the micronucleus and the comet assays, both before and after the follow-up period. Serum vitamin E concentration was also checked. The obtained results showed that 24% of our patients presented vitamin E deficiency, and this was normalized in those patients treated with vitamin E-coated membranes. Patients with vitamin E deficiency showed higher levels of oxidative DNA damage. After the use of vitamin E-coated membranes we detected a significant decrease in the levels of oxidative damage. Additionally, hemoglobin values increased significantly with the use of vitamin E-coated membranes. In conclusion, the use of vitamin E-coated membranes supposes a decrease on the levels of oxidative DNA damage, and improves the uremic anemia status. Furthermore, the use of this type of membrane was also effective in correcting vitamin E deficiency.