Elevated frequencies of micronuclei and other nuclear abnormalities in buccal epithelial cells of spray painters in South India

Abstract

Human biomonitoring using the micronucleus (MN) assay on exfoliated buccal cells is an invasive approach for the assessment of genetic damage in exposed populations. To determine the genotoxic effects of spray painters, MN assay was carried out in exfoliated buccal epithelial cells of 94 spray painters and 80 controls. From each individual, 2,000 exfoliated buccal cells were analyzed. The individuals used in the study were grouped based on their smoking and alcohol habits. There was a significantly elevated occurrence of micronucleated cells in the exposed workers than in controls. Spray painters showed a significant increase in MN when compared to controls with respect to their smoking and drinking habits, age and years of exposure. The association of cytogenetic damage with spray painting exposure gives important information to risk assessment process and concentration should also be paid towards the implementation of personal protective measures.