DNA damage in barn swallows (Hirundo rustica) from the Chernobyl region detected by use of the comet assay

• Title: DNA damage in barn swallows (Hirundo rustica) from the Chernobyl region detected by use of the comet assay

Author: Bonisoli-Alquati, Andrea / Voris, Andrew / Mousseau, Timothy A. / Møller, Anders Pape / Saino, Nicola / Wyatt, Michael D.

Reference: Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part C: Toxicology & Pharmacology, 151 (3), p.271-277, Apr 2010

doi: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2009.11.006

Keywords: Barn swallow; Chernobyl; Comet assay; Genetic damage; Hirundo rustica

Abstract: We investigated levels of DNA damage in blood cells of barn swallows (Hirundo rustica) inhabiting the Chernobyl region to evaluate whether chronic exposure to low-level radioactive contamination continues to induce genetic damage in free-living populations of animals. Blood samples were obtained from barn swallows collected at sites with different background levels of radiation, including a relatively uncontaminated area.

URL: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1532045609002439