Protein adduct biomarkers: state of the art.

Covalent protein adducts formed after exposure to xenobiotics may provide readily measurable indicators of these exposures. After adequate characterization of the dose-dependent formation of a specific adduct, the adduct can often be used as a quantitative marker for exposure, DNA adduct formation, or, possibly, risk of disease. By elucidating the structure of an adduct and studying the conditions under which it forms, information about the reactions that lead to its formation can be obtained. Continuing work in this area includes methods to expand the number, types, and levels of chemical exposures that can be studied by covalent adduct formation. In addition to the use of this technology in the field of occupational health, basic research in this area provides insights into metabolic pathways and biochemistry, as well.