title: DNA methylation during depleted uranium-induced leukemia.
abstract: 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.
authors.affiliation: Scientific Research Department, Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute (AFRRI), Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20889-5603, USA. millera@afrri.usuhs.mil
authors.forename: Alexandra C
authors.initials: AC
authors.lastname: Miller
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Stewart
authors.forename: Rafael
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Rivas