Changes in endogenous DNA damage in aging mice in response to butylated hydroxyanisole and oltipraz

The extent of DNA damage (single strand breaks) was measured in the livers of female Swiss-Webster mice up to 24 months of age. The effects of the antioxidants butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and oltipraz on this DNA damage were also measured. Oltipraz is an antioxidant which is structurally related to compounds found in cruciferous vegetables. From 6 months on the extent of DNA damage increased, reaching a maximum about 18 months old. Limited administration of both BHA and oltipraz to mice significantly reduced the levels of hepatic DNA damage.