Contamination dust causes mutations

2004/09/01 Elhuyar Zientzia Iturria: Elhuyar aldizkaria

• Genetika
• Ingurumena

Microscopic soot particles emitted by factories, power plants and cars can cause health problems by inhaling large amounts. According to a new study with mice, this type of contamination also produces genetic damage that can happen to the next generations.

During the experiment mice were placed near the dust source, which saw many more mutations pass than those living in a cleaner environment. On the other hand, it was observed that air filters can provide great protection, since they reduce damage by 50%.

However, they still do not know whether these mutations are related to health problems, or how they affect soot particles to human genes. Some organizations have already initiated initiatives to control the emissions of these particles in order to combat their possible harmful effect on the respiratory system.