DNA damage in bone marrow cells of mouse males in vivo after exposure to the pheromone: Comet assay

Abstract

It is shown by single-cell gel electrophoresis that the exposure of CBA mouse males with pheromone 2,5-dimethylpyrazine for 4 or 24 h increases DNA damage level in interphase nuclei of bone marrow cells. The results may reflect the work of a mechanism of formation of chromosomal aberrations and other mitotic disturbances, detected at the stage of ana-telophase, the frequency of which in dividing bone marrow cells increased after similar pheromonal exposure. The comparison of the damaged cell distribution types is proposed as an approach to analysis of comet assay data. The significance of the revealed effects on the immune system in the recipient organism is discussed.