Application of the alkaline comet assay in biodosimetry: assessment of in vivo DNA damage in human peripheral leukocytes after a gamma radiation incident.
The alkaline comet assay was employed in the assessment of DNA damage in leukocytes of a worker incidently exposed to gamma radiation (221 mSv, 60Co source). The comet tail lengths and tail moments were studied. By using the alkaline comet assay immediately after accidental exposure a high level of DNA damage was recorded. The highest levels of DNA damage were recorded one day and one week after the radiation incident. Later on, a decrease in both comet parameters was observed. Although the level of DNA damage was diminished during a one year period, it was still elevated compared to normal values recorded in leukocytes of a healthy, unexposed person. The results obtained indicate that the alkaline comet assay is a rapid and sensitive microdosimetric technique and is suitable for in vivo human biomonitoring, especially in cases of incidental exposure to ionising radiation.
Laboratory of Mutagenesis, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia. vgaraj@imi.hr
V
V
Garaj-Vrhovac
N
N
Kopjar
D
D
Razem
B
B
Vekić
S
S
Miljanić
M
M
Ranogajec-Komor
D003037:Cobalt Radioisotopes; D020552:Comet Assay / Q000379:methods*; D004249:DNA Damage; D005720:Gamma Rays; D006801:Humans; D007962:Leukocytes / Q000528:radiation effects*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011832:Radiation Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis*; D018788:Radioactive Hazard Release; D011874:Radiometry / Q000379:methods*
D003037:Cobalt Radioisotopes