Oxidative Stress Levels in Buccal Cells Using MAWI Collection Tubes

Abstract

Background: Oxidative Stress (OS) is defined as an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants, in favor of oxidants, potentially leading to DNA damage. Benzo[a] pyrene (B(a)P), a representative DNA-damaging mutagenic/ carcinogenic Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH), can lead to the final mutagen Benzo(a)Pyrene Diol Epoxide (BPDE). Methods: The extent of oxidative DNA damage is investigated in population studies using easily obtained cells. Buccal cell usage has been shown by many to be a cost effective, non-invasive and safe method to isolate DNA for various biological experiments. In this experimental research of 40 participants, equally divided between industry and academia, we compared the DNA concentration, purity, and associated levels of BPDE-DNA damage. Buccal cells were collected using ISWAB-DNA tubes, and DNA was then extracted to study the extent of DNA damage via ELISA Kit. Results: Results showed pure samples with no DNA degradation. DNA yields were as high as 35.657 μg/mL. In addition, none of the samples showed a presence of BPDE-DNA damage. Conclusions: MAWI collection tubes may not be able to detect BPDE-DNA damage. Other OS markers should be used to eradicate the previous statement.