Increased frequency of spontaneous and X-ray-induced chromosomal aberrations in lymphocytes from neonates and the influence of caffeine--an in vitro study.

We have examined lymphocytes from human preterm (PT) and fullterm (FT) babies for an effect of gestational age (GA) on chromosomal aberrations either occurring spontaneously or induced by treatment with X-rays (1 Gy) alone; or with caffeine (1,3,7-trimethylxanthine) supplementation (5 X 10(-4) M), in comparison to the lymphocytes of healthy adults (AD). Percent of abnormal cells (%Abn) was used as an indicator of chromosome sensitivity to the different treatments. PT babies had significantly higher spontaneous and X-ray-induced %Abn values than AD, but were comparable to FT. After X-irradiation + caffeine the yield of aberrations in any 2 groups was not significantly different. Chromosomal sensitivity may result from factors other than GA. This in vitro model may permit study of the mechanisms of chromosomal damage repair and prevention of free radical damage of DNA during the perinatal period.