Effects of oxygen radical scavengers and antioxidants on phagocyte-induced mutagenesis

Phagocytic leukocytes from normal humans can produce mutations in bacteria. To define further the role of oxygen radicals in this mutagenic process, we performed experiments in which scavengers or antioxidants were added to the incubation of phagocytes and bacteria. We found that 1) superoxide dismutase, catalase, mannitol, and benzoate were all capable of inhibiting mutation, 2) sulfhydryl compounds and vitamin E were also inhibitory, and 3) the presence of vitamin C in the incubations increased the mutation frequency. These data suggest an important role for hydroxyl radicals in mediating phagocyte-induced mutations.