Applications of Comet Assay in Ecotoxicological Genetics

Abstract

The single cell gel electrophoresis assay, better known as Comet Assay (CA), has obtained a privileged position among the tests used to assess the response of cells to genotoxic agents, biotic and abiotic stresses which lead to DNA damage. Different versions of the assay have been developed aimed to widen the spectra of DNA lesions that can be detected. Guidelines have also been provided for its use in ecotoxicological genetics. CA stands out by its demonstrated sensitivity to detect low levels of DNA damage, speediness and straightforwardness for data analysis in single cells, the use small size samples, its flexibility, low cost and applicability to almost any cell population. This set of advantages justifies its wide use for the genotoxicological evaluation in vitro of industrial chemicals, agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, active principles, as well as for the environmental and human biomonitoring of genotoxicants. The broad variety of organisms where this assay could be applied increases its range of utility and applicability in ecotoxicology. Therefore, this review deals with the use of the CA in the main model organisms (plants, protozoa, small crustaceans, insects, earthworms, mollusks, fish, amphibians and wild mammals) used in ecotoxicology studies. The wide variety of studies using this assay and its many advantages to detect genotoxic effects in organisms of different ecosystems, make it highly suitable for ecotoxicological analysis.