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Single cell gel electrophoresis assay: a new technique for human biomonitoring studies

2000; Elsevier BV; Volume: 463; Issue: 1 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1016/s1383-5742(00)00041-7

1388-2139

Fekadu Kassie, Wolfram Parzefall, Siegfried Knasmüller,

Effects and risks of endocrine disrupting chemicals

Human biomonitoring using the single cell gel electrophoresis (SCGE) or comet assay is a novel approach for the assessment of genetic damage in exposed populations. This assay enables the detection of various forms of DNA damage in individual cells with ease and speed and is, therefore, well suited to the analysis of a large group in a population. Here, application of SCGE assay in the identification of dietary protective factors, in clinical studies and in monitoring the risk of DNA damage resulting from occupational, environmental or lifestyle exposures is reviewed. Also, the comparative sensitivity of SCGE assay and conventional cytogenetic tests to detect genetic damage is discussed. Finally, strengths and shortcomings of the SCGE assay are addressed.