Implementation of the Chromosomal Aberration Technique for Monitoring Occupational Exposure to Genotoxic Agents in INCA’s Toxicology Laboratory

Authors

  • Ana Paula Castilho Instituto Nacional de Câncer (INCA), Coordenação de Prevenção e Vigilância (Conprev), Laboratório de Toxicologia Ocupacional, Ambiental e Vigilância do Câncer (LabTox). Rio de Janeiro (RJ), Brasil. https://orcid.org/0009-0006-0691-282X
  • Katia Soares da Poça Instituto Nacional de Câncer (INCA), Coordenação de Prevenção e Vigilância (Conprev), Laboratório de Toxicologia Ocupacional, Ambiental e Vigilância do Câncer (LabTox). Rio de Janeiro (RJ), Brasil. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8121-8700
  • Maria Theresa de Souza Accioly Instituto Nacional de Câncer (INCA), Coordenação de Prevenção e Vigilância (Conprev), Laboratório de Toxicologia Ocupacional, Ambiental e Vigilância do Câncer (LabTox). Rio de Janeiro (RJ), Brasil. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1423-0398
  • Márcia Sarpa de Campos Mello Instituto Nacional de Câncer (INCA), Coordenação de Prevenção e Vigilância (Conprev), Laboratório de Toxicologia Ocupacional, Ambiental e Vigilância do Câncer (LabTox). Rio de Janeiro (RJ), Brasil. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8976-4653

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32635/2176-9745.RBC.2026v72n4.5681

Keywords:

Neoplasms, Occupational Exposure/prevention & control, Chromosomal Aberrations, Biological Monitoring, Genotoxicity

Abstract

Introduction: Occupational exposure to chemical agents is associated with genetic damage and an increased risk of diseases, including cancer. Biomonitoring enables early detection of genetic alterations and supports preventive measures. Objective: To implement and standardize the chromosomal aberration test at the Laboratory of Occupational and Environmental Toxicology and Cancer Surveillance from the Prevention and Surveillance Coordination of the National Cancer Institute, aiming its application in biomonitoring projects for workers exposed to genotoxic agents. Method: A standard operational protocol was developed based on the literature, international guidelines, and technical expertise. The pilot study included a negative control (healthy individuals) and a positive control (samples exposed in vitro to methyl methanesulfonate at two concentrations). Slides were prepared and stained with Giemsa, and when necessary, G-banding, analyzing 300 metaphases per sample using optical microscopy and imaging capture systems. Structural and numerical chromosomal alterations were assessed. Results: The analysis warranted the implementation of the technique and standardization of the protocol, demonstrating its effectiveness in detecting genetic alterations under controlled experimental conditions. Conclusion: The protocol is suitable for future biomonitoring projects, providing a reliable tool for early evaluation of genetic damage and prevention of occupational risks.

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Published

2026-10-06

How to Cite

1.
Castilho AP, Poça KS da, Accioly MT de S, Mello MS de C. Implementation of the Chromosomal Aberration Technique for Monitoring Occupational Exposure to Genotoxic Agents in INCA’s Toxicology Laboratory. Rev. Bras. Cancerol. [Internet]. 2026 Oct. 6 [cited 2026 Oct. 6];72(4):e-295681. Available from: https://rbc.inca.gov.br/index.php/revista/article/view/5681

Issue

Vol. 72 No. 4 (2026): oct./nov./dec.

Section

ORIGINAL ARTICLE

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