Human Monitoring for Genetic Effects (NATO ASI SERIES) (Vol 351)

Recent scientific breakthroughs have improved our understanding of the impact of environmental toxic substances on human health. With the knowledge, new techniques are incorporated into human monitoring programs to identify damage to DNA, other macromolecules and cells that can be used to predict health risk from exposure to environmental genotoxic agents. The molecular and cellular responses are often measured in peripheral lymphocytes because these cells can be collected in a socially and ethically acceptable manner, and via a minimally invasive route. However, other cells such as sperm, buccal or nasal epithelial cells, placental cells, and body fluids such as urine and serum, are also used. From these investigations, it becomes obvious that an individual's genetic constitution and lifestyle activities can significantly influence the exposure effect. Genetic constitution includes inherited variations in genes for chemical metabolism and DNA repair. Lifestyle activities include diet and levels of physical activity. Because of the significant influence of the environmental factors on human health, there is increased interest in monitoring human populations for improvement of health. The major objective of this publication is to enhance the knowledge and expertise of researchers in molecular epidemiology and human monitoring.