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.
Garaj-Vrhovac
V
V
Laboratory of Mutagenesis, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia. vgaraj@imi.hr
Kopjar
N
N
Razem
D
D
Vekić
B
B
Miljanić
S
S
Ranogajec-Komor
M
M
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