Frecuencia de micronúcleos en fumadores y sus implicaciones para la salud huma

Abstract

Abstract: Micronuclei are small nuclear structures that form when chromosome fragments are not properly incorporated during cell division, which can be a sign of exposure to carcinogenic substances. The aim of this study was to analyze the association between nuclear alterations in oral epithelial cells and smoking in the adult population of Loja, and also to establish the frequency of micronuclei associated with tobacco use. Therefore, the study was conducted with oral cells, which were washed, fixed, and stained for microscopic examination and the identification of cellular abnormalities. We found a lower frequency of micronuclei in smokers compared to nonsmokers, revealing that this frequency is correlated with smoking habits. Karyolysis, karyrrhesis, and binucleated cells were also identified, indicating additional cellular damage. This study shows significant differences between smokers and nonsmokers in the impact of tobacco on genetic damage and indicates that it is a method that can be used to monitor and detect early alterations in the oral mucosa.