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DETERMINING IF BURNT FOOD CAN INDUCE CYP1A1 EXPRESSION IN MOUSE HEPATOCYTES**

Abstract

Benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon found in cigarette smoke and burnt meats. B[a]P is a ligand of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, which binds to the promoter region of the cyp1a1 gene, causing expression of the CYP1A1 enzyme. Metabolism of B[a]P by CYP1A1 will bioactivate it into a diol epoxide, which causes DNA damage that can lead to cancer. Research has shown that bioflavonoids, such as apigenin, can prevent the expression of CYP1A1. This research will examine if CYP1A1 expression can be induced by extracts of dry-sautéed vegetables (onion, mushroom, carrot, and yellow bell pepper) by using a luciferase reporter assay in mouse hepatocytes. We will further determine if co-treatment with 100nM apigenin can inhibit any induced expression by these vegetables. By comparing these results with those obtained with grilled chicken, we hope to address how possible differences in food options relate to cancer risk.

Acknowledgements

Young Harris Department of Biology

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