Diet modification affects DNA oxidative damage in healthy humans

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Nutrition Science
• Genetics

Background:

• Oxidative stress contributes to DNA damage, with 8-hydroxy-2 -deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) serving as a key biomarker.
• Dietary factors, particularly antioxidants, play a crucial role in mitigating oxidative damage.
• Understanding the in vivo impact of dietary interventions on DNA damage is essential for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of two liquid formula diets with varying antioxidant profiles on leukocyte 8-hydroxy-2 -deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels in healthy adults.
• To assess the responsiveness of 8-OHdG/deoxyguanosine (dG) ratios to dietary changes.
• To investigate the potential of dietary intervention to reduce DNA damage in vivo.

Main Methods:

• A randomized crossover study involving 32 healthy, nonsmoking adults.
• Participants consumed two liquid formula diets (standard and reformulated Ensure) as sole nutrition for 10 days, separated by washout periods.
• Leukocyte 8-OHdG/dG ratios were measured to assess DNA damage.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in 8-OHdG/dG ratios was observed between the standard and reformulated Ensure diets immediately after consumption.
• A significant downward trend in leukocyte 8-OHdG was observed throughout the study across all nutrient-rich diet phases.
• A 22% decrease in 8-OHdG/dG was noted by the end of the study, suggesting a cumulative effect of the diets.

Conclusions:

• While specific formula differences were not immediately apparent, the study demonstrated a significant reduction in DNA damage markers with prolonged consumption of nutrient-rich diets.
• Dietary interventions providing elevated antioxidant nutrients can lead to decreased DNA damage in healthy individuals.
• This research contributes to the limited in vivo evidence supporting diet-mediated reduction of DNA damage.