The Comet Assay from Perceptive Instruments can be used in in biomonitoring studies to determine the level of DNA damage in workers exposed to potentially hazardous chemicals and radiation.
The assay is a suitable biomarker for such investigations due to its sensitivity and reliability in detecting DNA damage and repair.
According to Perceptive Instruments, a large number of research groups are utilising its Comet Assay scoring systems to determine the risks to health caused by occupational exposure to chemicals.
Through this means: increased DNA damage was found in petrochemical industry operators, service station attendants and maintenance engineers exposed to low levels of benzene; anaesthesia personnel showed increased DNA damage induced by occupational exposure to waste anaesthetic gases; an increase in mutagenic (and immunotoxic) effects was found in workers employed in the lead industry by the T-cell receptor mutation assay but not by the comet assay; increased DNA damage in medical personnel handling drugs used in the treatment of cancer could be reduced by wearing protective gloves and mask.
More information on Comet Assay IV can be found on Perceptive Instruments' dedicated comet assay website.
