Human somatic mutation assays as biomarkers of carcinogenesis

Environ Health Perspect. 1991 Aug:94:135-41. doi: 10.1289/ehp.94-1567966.

Abstract

This paper describes four assays that detect somatic gene mutations in humans: the hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyl transferase assay, the glycophorin A assay, the HLA-A assay, and the sickle cell hemoglobin assay. Somatic gene mutation can be considered a biomarker of carcinogenesis, and assays for somatic mutation may assist epidemiologists in studies that attempt to identify factors associated with increased risks of cancer. Practical aspects of the use of these assays are discussed.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers*
  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • DNA, Neoplasm / genetics
  • Epidemiologic Methods
  • Genetic Markers
  • Glycophorins / genetics
  • HLA-A Antigens / genetics
  • Hemoglobin, Sickle / genetics
  • Humans
  • Hypoxanthine Phosphoribosyltransferase / genetics
  • Mutagenicity Tests*
  • Mutation
  • Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Neoplasms / etiology*
  • Neoplasms / genetics

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • DNA, Neoplasm
  • Genetic Markers
  • Glycophorins
  • HLA-A Antigens
  • Hemoglobin, Sickle
  • Hypoxanthine Phosphoribosyltransferase