Automodified Poly(ADP-Ribose) Polymerase Analysis to Monitor DNA Damage in Peripheral Lymphocytes of Floricoltorists Occupationally Exposed to Pesticides

Background:Increased DNA damage and the propension to cancer development, depend on the modulation of the mechanisms to control and maintain genomic integrity. Poly(ADP-Ribose)Polymerase activation and automodification are early responses to genotoxic stress. Upon binding to DNA strand breaks, the enzyme, a molecular DNA nick sensor,is hyperactivated: this is the first step in a series of events leading to either DNA repair or apoptosis. Enzyme hyperactivation and automodification can be easily measured and are widely used to look at DNA damage extent in the cell. We investigated whetherthese two markers (increasedcatalytic activity and auto modification), could help to monitor DNA damage in lymphocytes of flower growers from Southern Italy, occupationally exposed to pesticides. Methods: Peripheral lymphocyte lysates were analysed for Poly(ADP-Ribose) Polymerase activity, and by SDS-PAGE and anti-Poly(ADP-Ribose)Polymerase 1-antibody to measure automodified Poly(ADP-Ribose) Polymerase levels by densitometry. Results:Poly(ADP-Ribose)Polymerase activity levels were consistent with those of enzyme auto-modification. Growers daily exposed to pesticides, showed both biomarkers very high, either in the presence or in the absence of pathologies. Conclusions:PARP activity and auto-modification in peripheral blood lymphocytes are possible, non-invasive, and routinar tools to monitor the healthy conditions of floricoltorists.