Abstract
Previous studies in our laboratory, demonstrating the intracellular DNA modifying potential of phototherapy, have generated some concern since many chemical carcinogens, mutagens and/or teratogens derive their activity from a similar ability to modify intracellular DNA. More recent studies have suggested that the wavelength(s) with maximum genetic activity is around 450 nm. Since the absorption maximum for bilirubin, and presumably the wavelength for maximum photodecomposition is near 435 nm, it is conceivable that these two photochemical activities can be dissociated. The present study deals with the use of “sharp cut” glass filters in conjunction with phototherapy lights. It was shown that utilization of selected interference filters could dramatically decrease light-induced DNA modification in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell lines while causing only a slight (1.5 fold) diminution in the rate of bilirubin decomposition. Since the optimal rate of bilirubin photodecomposition for the treatment of neonatal jaundice is not known, the present study demonstrates the feasibility of dissociating the beneficial therapeutic effects of phototherapy from the potentially detrimental mutagenic, carcinogenic and/or teratogenic effects.
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Speck, W., Carr, H. & Rosenkranz, H. 272 THE DISSOCIATION BETWEEN THE DNA MODIFYING AND BILIRUBIN DEGRADING ACTIVITY OF PHOTOTHERAPY. Pediatr Res 12 (Suppl 4), 409 (1978). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197804001-00277
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197804001-00277
