Potential for genetic damage from multivitamin solutions exposed to phototherapy illumination

Pediatr Res. 1983 Mar;17(3):192-4. doi: 10.1203/00006450-198303000-00004.

Abstract

The ability of standard phototherapy illumination to produce damage in intracellular DNA is well established. In this study, the addition of a dilute solution (1:6400) of a clinically-used multivitamin concentrate to human KB cells was found to enhance the generation of single-strand DNA breaks produced by broad-spectrum fluorescent light. The effect of the exogenous photosensitizing agent (multivitamins) was blocked by the enzyme catalase; thus, the photoproduct responsible for the DNA modification was hydrogen peroxide, an extremely reactive molecule capable of damaging a variety of biologic macromolecules.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Catalase / pharmacology
  • DNA / genetics
  • DNA / radiation effects*
  • Humans
  • In Vitro Techniques
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Jaundice, Neonatal / therapy
  • Phototherapy / adverse effects*
  • Solutions
  • Vitamins / adverse effects
  • Vitamins / radiation effects*

Substances

  • Solutions
  • Vitamins
  • DNA
  • Catalase