Cytogenetic monitoring using the buccal micronucleus cytome assay (BMCA)

   The results of cytogenetic monitoring of the personnel of two enterprises of the Rosatom State Corporation and the child population using the buccal micronucleus cytome assay (BMCA) in our modification are presented. Its essence is in the quantitative analysis of the «quality» of epithelial cells of the buccal mucosa and determination of the index of accumulation of cytogenetic damage. The indicative standard values (INV) were adjusted when analyzing the cytogenetic status of 620 people. Methodological recommendations were published. The average values of the cytogenetic status end points of the personnel of both enterprises working under conditions of compliance with hygienic standards do not exceed the INV, but this excess was noted in individual employees in each of the examined groups. At both enterprises, in groups working under conditions of combined action of low-intensity radiation and chemicals a deterioration of the end points was noted; the index of accumulation of cytogenetic damage is 1.2-2.2 higher than in the comparison groups; there is also a higher proportion of people with excess of the IVB for a number of end points. Four-fold examination of the personnel confirmed the initial conclusion about the «territory of trouble», which indicates a stable impact of a set of production factors of the enterprise. In general, in the impact groups, the risk level of cytogenetic damage is determined as moderate. In children living near the examined enterprise, the frequency of cells with micronuclei does not exceed the established control of 1.1 %. The level of cytogenetic stress is determined as acceptable.

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