Chromosomal Aberrations in Muntjac Cells Resulting From Exposure to Interferon

Abstract

Cells of the Indian deer (Muntiacus muntjac) are sensitive to the antiviral and antiproliferative action of human beta-interferon (beta-IFN). Because of their low diploid chromosome number and readily identifiable chromosomes, they provide a convenient model system in which to test for the ability of IFN treatment to result in chromosome abnormalities. Increases in the frequencies of chromosome gaps and breaks have been observed after 72 h of treatment with IFN at a concentration of 100 U/ml. At IFN concentrations of 10-100 U/ml, there is a higher proportion of aberrations in the X chromosome than would be expected in a random distribution. At 1,000-1,700 U/ml IFN, there is an increase in the proportion of cells with multiple abnormalities over that observed at 0-100 U/ml IFN, and the distribution of aberrations appears to be random.

The Effects of Pegylated Interferon Alpha-2a and Alpha-2b Therapy on Chromosomal Aberrations and Mitotic Index in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B

“…When we compared our studies with the other studies that investigated the effect of interferon therapy in terms of chromosomal aberrations and MI, our results were similar to those of Ozturk et al and Bolzan et al while they were not similar to those of Jasny and Tamm in terms of frequency of chromosomal aberrations. 7,32,34 For the MI, our results were not similar to the results of Ozturk et al and Georgian et al 7,35 These results represent critical and meaningful data. Although hepatitis B virus has a genotoxic effect, interferon therapy for 6 months does not lead to increased cytogenetic aberrations or decreased MI.…”

“…34 Georgian et al examined the role of human alpha interferon on the mitotic activity of normal and tumoral cells and observed that interferon therapy had a dose related inhibitor effect on the MI. 35 Ozturk et al examined the in vitro effect of interferon alpha-2a on the MI, development of cytogenetic abnormalities and sister chromatid exchange of peripheral blood lymphocytes.…”