Mass Spectrometric Mapping of the DNA Adductome as a Means to Study Genotoxin Exposure, Metabolism, and Effect

Lieselot Y Hemeryck1, Sharon A Moore2, Lynn Vanhaecke1

  • 1Laboratory of Chemical Analysis, Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University , Salisburylaan 133, Merelbeke, B-9820, Belgium.

Insights

DNA adducts indicate exposure to DNA-damaging chemicals. Mass spectrometry (MS) is a powerful tool for simultaneously detecting and quantifying multiple DNA adducts, aiding toxicological and cancer research.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Toxicology
  • Molecular Epidemiology
  • Biomarker Discovery

Background:

  • DNA adducts form from covalent binding of chemicals to DNA, reflecting exposure to harmful molecules.
  • Studying DNA adducts in human tissues is crucial for toxicology and cancer epidemiology.
  • Existing methods for DNA adduct analysis are limited in simultaneously detecting diverse adducts.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight mass spectrometry (MS) as the leading technique for simultaneous detection, identification, and quantification of DNA adducts.
  • To emphasize the application of MS in untargeted DNA adductome mapping.
  • To discuss critical factors influencing the reliability of DNA adductomics studies.

Main Methods:

  • Focus on mass spectrometry (MS) for comprehensive DNA adduct analysis.
  • Exploration of untargeted analysis for identifying both known and unknown DNA adducts.
  • Discussion of study design, sample pretreatment, and analytical considerations.

Main Results:

  • Mass spectrometry (MS) offers unparalleled capabilities for multi-adduct analysis.
  • Untargeted MS approaches enable broad DNA adductome mapping.
  • Optimized study design and sample handling are essential for reliable adductomics data.

Conclusions:

  • MS is the most promising technique for simultaneous, comprehensive DNA adduct analysis.
  • DNA adductome mapping using MS provides valuable insights into chemical exposures.
  • Careful consideration of methodological aspects ensures the accuracy of DNA adductomics research.