Method normalisation, validation protocols and quality control of tests for the biomonitoring of mutagens/carcinogens.

The idea that most cancers can be anticipated by controlling the exposure
to mutagens/carcinogens in the environment is generally accepted. To better
understand the mechanisms responsible for cancer induction, to better
classify mutagens/carcinogens, and finally, to have a better prevention
using these data, biomonitoring studies are essential.

To make these goals feasible, tests for biomonitoring should be validated,
methods used in several laboratoria should be normalised (when possible)
and effective quality control programs should be available.

The three goals of this project are:
* To validate the methods
* To define a standard "modus operandi" for every method according to the
validation protocol. This modus operandi should then be incorporated in
a normalised method.
* To develop procedures for quality control.

The biomonitoring tests for which these goals should be acchieved are:
* Determination of monohydroxy-1-nitropyrene in urine to determine the
exposure to diesel exhausts. This is a method for determination of
internal dose.
* The alkali comet or single cell gel electrophoresis assay for the
detection of DNA-strand breaks, alkali labile sites, incomplete
excision repair and cross links at the level of single cells. This test
is used mainly for measuring exposure and secondly for measuring early
biological effects.
* The determination of N-terminal valine adducts using the modified
Edman-degradation technique for mutagens forming epoxides. This test
aims at measuring the biological effective dose of these substances.
* The micronucleus test is an aid to determine the damage caused to the
chromosomes by ionising radiation or chemicals. This test measures
biological effects.