Assessment of DNA damage in multiple organs from mice exposed to X-rays or acrylamide or a combination of both using the comet assay.

摘要

BACKGROUND: X-rays and acrylamide (AA) are present in the general environment and workplace and are potential hazards for human health. Combined exposure to both agents is possible, especially at low doses. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The induction of DNA damage after single or combined exposure to X-rays and/or AA was measured in multiple mice organs using a comet assay. RESULTS: X-rays and AA alone induced generally dose-dependent increases in DNA damage of somatic and germ cells. Combined exposure to 0.10 Gy + 50 mg/kg bw AA induced higher DNA damage than each agent alone in the spleen, kidneys, lungs and testes. In bone marrow lymphocytes there was clear increase in DNA damage compared to that produced by X-rays only. Significant DNA damage was observed in liver cells only after combined exposure to 0.25 Gy + 50 mg/kg bw AA. CONCLUSION: Combined exposure to X-rays and AA enhanced DNA damage after single exposure to each agent.