Study on DNA damage in human peripheral lymphocytes of workers exposed to X ray

Objective To detect DNA damage in human peripheral lymphocytes of workers exposed to low dose X ray with single cell gel electrophoresis (SCGE) assay, also known as comet assay.Methods 32 workers exposed to X ray and 33 non exposed controls were selected. DNA damage in their lymphocytes were detected by SCGE. Results Number of lymphocytes with DNA damage appeared to be significantly higher in the workers exposed to X ray than that in non exposed one ( P 0 01). There was a significant correlation between the severity of DNA damage and the work time of workers.Conclusion Low dose X ray seemed to be able to cause DNA damage in human lymphocytes. The application of SCGE assay as a sensitive, simple, fast and useful technique in the regular health screening of workers occupationally exposed to X ray would be encouraged.