The Effects of Taurine on Permethrin-Induced Cytogenetic and Oxidative Damage in Cultured Human Lymphocytes

Abstract

Permethrin (PM) is a common pyrethroid pesticide used to control pests in agriculture, forestry, horticulture, health care, homes, and textile industry. It is confirmed as a strong mutagen in animals and humans. Taurine (TA) is an amino acid found in mammalian tissues that protects the cell against DNA damage. In this study, we investigated whether supplementation of human lymphocyte cultures with TA (in the concentrations of 25 mu g mL(-1), 50 mu g mL(-1) and 100 mu g mL(-1) provided any protection against PM toxicity applied in the concentration of 200 mu g mL(-1). Genotoxicity was assessed using the micronucleus (MN) and sister chromatid exchanges (SCE) tests. In addition, we measured the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and total oxidative stress (TOS) levels in the plasma to determine oxidative effects. PM increased SCE and MN levels and altered TAC and TOS levels. TA alone did not affect SCE and MN levels compared to controls, regardless of the concentration applied. In addition, it increased TAC levels without changing TOS levels. Moreover, it significantly buffered the negative cytogenetic and oxidative effects induced by PM in a clear dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, this study is the first to evidence the beneficial effects of TA against PM-induced DNA and oxidative damages in vitro.