Furthermore, the levels of transcripts of two AlkB genes that protect against the cytotoxicity of methylating agents through repair of the specific DNA lesions generated
in single - stranded DNA, Alkhb3 (
alkylation repair homolog 3) and Alkhb8 (
alkylation repair homolog 8), was lower
in the IVC males.
The recognition that these silver ions act via mild oxidation and then
alkylation (binding) makes good sense
in terms of its broad action and lack of toxicity to mammals with their extensive antioxidant defense systems.