Micronuclei as A Biomarker in Monitoring Genetic Damage in Down Syndrome

Background: Down syndrome (DS) is a most common cause of mental retardation in humans. Monitoring genetic damage in DS individuals helps in evaluating genetic damage. Micronucleus assay is potentially an excellent tool to serve as a biomarker which detects chromosomal loss or malfunction. Aim of the study: The objective of the study is to evaluate micronuclei (MN) frequency in exfoliated buccal cells in DS individuals. Materials and Methods: The study subjects consisted of clinically diagnosed cases of Down syndrome. Healthy subjects without any medical conditions formed the control group. The cyto-smears were stained with Papanicolaou stain. Results and Conclusion: The presence of increased number of micronuclei in Down syndrome (P<0.05) patients may be useful in identifying individuals with increase risk of mental retardation.