Diseases, with a Special Focus on Cancer

Bence László Raposa Ph.D, Habil.

Associate Professor, Head of Department

University of Pécs, Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Basics of Health Sciences, Midwifery and Health Visiting, Department of Preventive and Perinatal Medicine

Introduction: Tartrazine, a widely used synthetic food dye, has been scrutinized for potential health risks. While its allergenic and behavioral effects are well studied, its genotoxic potential remains inconclusive. Investigating these effects is crucial for food safety and public health.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the potential genotoxic effects of orally administered tartrazine using an animal model and genetic, epigenetic markers.

Material and Method: An in vivo animal model was used to assess the genotoxicity of tartrazine. This study investigated the effects of the azo dye tartrazine on gene expression and methylation patterns at the mRNA level. RNA was isolated from the organs of experimental animals using the TRIzol protocol and analyzed via RT-PCR. Gene expression levels were normalized to the housekeeping gene HPRT1 and compared between treated and control groups

Results: Exposure to high concentrations of tartrazine significantly altered the expression of genes related to epigenetic regulation and oxidative stress pathways. PCR analysis revealed changes in DNMT gene expression, suggesting possible epigenetic modifications. Differential expression of MAPK8, GADD45α, and NF-κB indicated disruptions in cellular stress response and DNA repair mechanisms. These effects were dose-dependent, with higher concentrations exhibiting more pronounced gene expression alterations.

Conclusions: The findings suggest that tartrazine may influence gene expression linked to epigenetic regulation and oxidative stress at high exposure levels. While further research is needed to confirm these observations, the results highlight the importance of reviewing current risk assessment strategies and regulatory policies. Periodic reassessment of tartrazine’s safety is recommended to ensure consumer protection and public health.

Keywords: Tartrazine, Toxicity, Oxidative Stress,Epigenesis, Genetic