SIGNIFICANCE OF DNA DAMAGE AND REPAIR MECHANISMS IN HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT

Abstract

Estimations of human risk are generally based on animal studies, and thus require a species-to-species extrapolation. uch data are usually obtained at exposure levels much higher than those ordinarily encountered by humans; consequently, estimates of low-dose risk require a consideration of how the animal dose-response can be extrapolated to lower exposures. nformation on mechanisms and rates of DNA repair and on similarities and differences among different cell types and species is important in the development of biologically based extrapolation models for quantitative risk assessment. uch information serves to guide or to provide insight into predicted shapes of dose-response curves at low exposures and how to extrapolate risk across species. his paper will present a conceptual outline for considering how information on DNA damage and repair mechanism may be applicable to the assessment of health risks, particularly those posed by exposure to carcinogens and mutagens.

Citation

Rhomberg, L., V. Dellarco, W. Farland, AND R. Cortesi. SIGNIFICANCE OF DNA DAMAGE AND REPAIR MECHANISMS IN HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C., EPA/600/D-91/041 (NTIS PB91176941).

Additional Information

Presented at Brookhaven Symposium in Biology No. 36, Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, NY, October 1-4, 1989

• SIGNIFICANCE OF DNA DAMAGE AND REPAIR MECHANISMS IN HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT