Identification
of Radiation-Processed Edible Grains and Seeds using Single Cell Microgel Electrophoresis
Assay: A Comparative Analysis
Khan Ashfaq Ahmad, Kashif Ayesha and Shahid Muhammad Kashif
International Journal of Agricultural Sciences and
Veterinary Medicine;
Vol. 12(2); 1-9;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/1202ijasvm0109; (2024)
Abstract
The DNA Comet assay (microgel electrophoresis method) is a recommended technique
for detection of radiation treatment in food containing DNA material. It involves
isolating cells/nuclei (DNAs) from both un-irradiated and irradiated samples of
food and embedding them on microscope slides, lysing the cells/nuclei, performing
electrophoresis, staining the cells/nuclei and then evaluating the patterns of migration
of DNA in agarose gel. In this study, the assay was applied to identify irradiated
grains and seeds commonly consumed by humans and animals such as wheat, melon seeds,
sesame seeds, red lentils and pinto beans. Samples were irradiated within a permissible
dose range and microscope slides were evaluated under an ordinary transmission microscope.
The controlled samples showed intact membrane cells/nuclei while irradiated samples
displayed dose-dependent comets with varying shapes, lengths and sizes of the tail.
On the basis of comet morphology, this method enables rapid screening and differentiation
of food samples exposed to different radiation doses, providing a valuable tool
for food quality and safety assessment. The study's main results demonstrate the
effectiveness of the DNA Comet assay in distinguishing between irradiated and un-irradiated
food samples, complementing the microscopic results obtained.
