Project Summary (1995-2000)

This project is investigating the utility of the human cytochrome P450 system as a potential biomonitor of chemical exposure and effect. P450 enzymes are known to catalyze metabolic reactions with many priority pollutants found within Superfund waste sites and the expression of these genes are clearly modulated by select chemical exposures. Furthermore, genetic variation in P450 expression may be an important determinant of differences in an individual's toxic response from potential toxic exposures. Continued development and use of P450 gene product detection probes identified during previous projects should enable expanded use of the cytochrome P450 system as a bioindicator of chemical exposure and biological susceptibility in humans exposed to xenobiotic agents. The primary hypothesis that continues to be tested with this research is that animal and human exposure to various classes of chemicals can be ascertained through composite measure of gene expression patterns for key cytochrome P-450 (P450) isozymes. A second hypothesis is that the P450 genotype is a marker of Parkinson's disease susceptibility.