Single cell gel electrophoresis assay: a new technique for human biomonitoring studies

Human biomonitoring using the single cell gel electrophoresis (SCGE) or com et assay is a novel approach for the assessment of genetic damage in expose d populations. This assay enables the detection of various forms of DNA dam age in individual cells with ease and speed and is, therefore, well suited to the analysis of a large group in a population. Here, application of SCGE assay in the identification of dietary protective factors, in clinical stu dies and in monitoring the risk of DNA damage resulting from occupational, environmental or lifestyle exposures is reviewed. Also, the comparative sen sitivity of SCGE assay and conventional cytogenetic tests to detect genetic damage is discussed. Finally, strengths and shortcomings of the SCGE assay are addressed. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.