ABSTRACT
Much has been written about the occurrence of genotoxic agents in the environment and their mutagenic and carcinogenic potential. The extent to which exposure to such agents result in adverse health effects within the population is a function of not only the level of exposure but also of the adaptive capacity of the individual. This section will assess one of the processes with which the body attempts to protect itself from genotoxic agents. More specifically, the role of DNA repair in assisting the body to prevent the occurrence of environmentally induced mutagenesis and carcinogenesis will be critically evaluated along with an assessment of interspecies differences in DNA repair processes, activity, and fidelity.
