Immunohistochemical analysis of 4-aminobiphenyl-DNA adducts in oral mucosal cells of smokers and nonsmokers

Background The 'biologically effective dose markers': DNA and protein adducts, are a direct index of carcinogen induced cell damage and an indirect one of genetic susceptibility. This study aimed to examine the dose-response relationship for 4-Aminobiphenyl-DNA adducts in oral cells of smokers and non smokers. Materials and Methods. An immunoperoxidase method with the monoclonal 3C8 antibody, which recognizes 4-Aminobiphenyl-DNA, has been wed for detecting DNA damage in oral cells of 12 smokers and 12 non smokers. Results. Higher staining for 4-Aminobiphenyl-DNA was detected in the cells of smokers (187 ± 42) vs. non smokers (135 ± 35) (p = 0.004), with a twofold range in relative staining for both groups, suggesting individual differences relevance in metabolizing carcinogens and/or repairing DNA damage. Conclusions. This non invasive method requiring small cell amounts is a tool for monitoring large groups of subjects at risk in primary prevention programs.