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DNA damages that are not repaired during cell proliferation represent initiating events that may result in neoclassic. Exposure from polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (Paths) from some foods is sufficiently high to permit direct studies of such DNA lesions in humans. This potential health hazard - its modulation by genetic factors, synergists and protective substances - constitutes the main focus for this proposal. The intent is also to provide new methods for assessing oxidative and other types of DNA damage as well as basic knowledge on different DNA repair mechanisms. <P>
The impact from exposures via food to Paths will be studied in women characterized by different ethnicity and life styles from the general population in Poland, Serbia and Italy, as well as in subjects living in two environmental catastrophe zones in Serbia.
Arsenic enhances the geotaxis effects of Paths in model systems, and the proposed investigation of the effects of combined exposures to Paths and high levels of arsenic in drinking water is unique, as is the assessment of individual DNA repair capacity, which offers a possibility to identify particularly sensitive groups with respect to this type of carcinogens. In humans the utility of various biomarkers derived from model systems, and that are relevant for tumour induction by Paths, will be directly assessed by monitoring chromosomal and DNA damage in buckle cells and lymphocytes. The comparative studies to be conducted in the mouse on inhibition of PAH-induced genotoxicity by selected plant constituents provide an input to a subsequent investigation in humans. In this study the inhibiting effects of ant carcinogens with respect to DNA damage and chromosomal aberrations induced by exposure to Paths will be assessed directly in isolated lymphocytes and buckle cells from human volunteers in an intervention crossover study. In the area of public health, efforts will be made to promote a healthier diet for the general population.
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For more information about this project, please visit the <a href="http://ec.europa.eu/research/biosociety/food_quality/projects/030_en.ht…; target="_blank">European Commission Food Quality and Safety in Europe</a> Web site.