Evaluation of DNA damage and DNA repair capacity in occupationally lead-exposed workers

In this study, a control group and an exposed group were studied, each consisting of 25 male subjects. Blood lead levels (BLLs) were estimated by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. Genotoxic effects of Pb exposure were studied in leukocytes by comet and challenge assays. The effect of Pb exposure to DNA repair capacity was evaluated following in vitro hydrogen peroxide exposure. Pb-exposed workers had significantly higher BLLs than the control group (p < 0.01). DNA damage in exposed workers had a significantly higher percentage of DNA in tail than the control group (p < 0.05). In the challenge assay, it was found that the mean DNA% repair capacity was significantly decreased in Pb-exposed workers (p < 0.01). The results indicated that occupational Pb exposure is associated with DNA damage and causes decrease in DNA% repair capacity, indicating a potential health concern for occupationally Pb-exposed populations.

Source: Toxicology and Industrial Health - October 23, 2016 Category: Toxicology Authors: Jannuzzi, A. T., Alpertunga, B. Tags: Articles Source Type: research