Air pollution, oxidative damage to DNA, and carcinogenesis

Cancer Lett. 2008 Jul 18;266(1):84-97. doi: 10.1016/j.canlet.2008.02.030. Epub 2008 Mar 25.

Abstract

There is growing concern that air pollution exposure increases the risk of lung cancer. The mechanism of action is related to particle-induced oxidative stress and oxidation of DNA. Humans exposed to urban air with vehicle emissions have elevated levels of oxidized guanine bases in blood cells and urine. Animal experimental studies show that pulmonary and gastrointestinal exposure is associated with elevated levels of oxidized guanines in the lung and other organs. Collectively, there is evidence indicating that exposure to traffic-related air pollution particles is associated with oxidative damage to DNA and this might be associated with increased risk of cancer.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Air Pollution / adverse effects*
  • Animals
  • Carcinogens / toxicity*
  • Cell Transformation, Neoplastic
  • DNA Damage*
  • Guinea Pigs
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Neoplasms / chemically induced*
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Oxidative Stress*
  • Particulate Matter / toxicity
  • Rats
  • Vehicle Emissions / toxicity

Substances

  • Carcinogens
  • Particulate Matter
  • Vehicle Emissions