DNA methylation during depleted uranium-induced leukemia.
OBJECTIVE
The radioactive heavy metal depleted uranium (DU) is used in kinetic-energy penetrators in military applications. The objective of this study was to determine involvement of DNA methylation in DU-induced leukemia.


METHODS
Methylation was measured by direct analysis of 5-methylcytosine content of spleen DNA in DU leukemic mice.


RESULTS
Spleen hypomethylation occurred during DU-induced leukemogenesis (chronic internal DU exposure). Aberrant gene transcription was also detected.


CONCLUSIONS
Epigenetic mechanisms are implicated in DU-induced leukemia. These data are evidence of aberrant DNA hypomethylation being associated with DU leukemogenesis.
Miller
Alexandra C
AC
Scientific Research Department, Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute (AFRRI), Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20889-5603, USA. millera@afrri.usuhs.mil
Stewart
Michael
M
Rivas
Rafael
R