P450 Cytochrome

Due to the multiplicity of cytochromes P450 have been used as tools for evolutionary studies of type, phylogenetic. This will generate maps of relationships between different species according to their complementary gene at the DNA of the genes encoding the P450.

On the other hand although the response of induction of synthesis of cytochrome P450 enzymes has not been characterized for all families P450, P450 1A subfamily has been widely studied.

In mammals, dioxins, polyhalogenated hydrocarbons and other environmental contaminants are inducing. Therefore, the analysis of protein levels through catalytic or immunological methods provides a convenient way to monitor pollution effects at the molecular level (Shugart, 1996).

Should be noted that endogenous factors and external agencies, environmental, can affect data interpretation, organochlorines are eg inhibitors of the degradative activity (catalysis) and reproductive cycles may produce steroids which in turn can affect catalytic activity.

You can find numerous studies using the P450 as a biomarker of impact by organic chemicals such as in Livingstone (1993) are references to more than 15 studies. They use the P450 as a biomarker was very successful.