Chromatin changes of endothelial cells in umbilical arteries in smokers

Fine granular spots within the nucleus of endothelial cells have been demonstrated in umbilical arteries from newborns. These nuclear changes were predominantly found in vessels from newborns delivered by heavy smoking mothers (greater than or equal to 10 cigarettes per day) chi 2 = 8.28, p less than 0.005. Similar nuclear changes have until now only been reported in man in relation to tumors or other pathological conditions. The vessels showed signs of increased cellular turnover compatible with the findings in experimental atherosclerosis. The nuclear changes thus could be interpreted as an alteration of nuclear activity.