Oxidative DNA damage, antioxidants and DNA repair: applications of the comet assay
2001 ◽
Vol 29
(2)
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pp. 337-340
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Keyword(s):
Estimates of background levels of oxidative base damage in human white blood cells vary enormously, from 300 down to 0.4 molecules of 8-oxoguanine per 106 guanines. An EC-funded Concerted Action, the European Standards Committee on Oxidative DNA Damage, is currently attempting to resolve the discrepancy and to agree a realistic estimate of basal endogenous oxidation. Oxidation of lymphocyte DNA is a useful marker of oxidative stress, and this can be decreased by supplementation with pure antioxidants or with foods rich in antioxidants. The steady-state level of DNA oxidation is ultimately controlled by the process of DNA repair; the extent to which this varies between individuals has yet to be established.