RESUMEN
The biomarkers can facilitate the evaluation of the factors modulating susceptibility to carcinogens among human populations. As an indicator of DNA damage, carcinogen-DNA adducts represent a critical step on the carcinogenic pathway. Genetic differences in detoxification capabilities and the DNA repair efficiency may modulate PAH-induced DNA damage and carcinogenesis. Experimental animal studies have demonstrated that the fetus and infant are more susceptible to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) induced carcinogenesis than adults. Recent years, more and more studies have shown that the prenatal exposure to PAHs not only associated with the increasing risk of cancer, but also related to adverse birth outcomes. This paper reviewed the differential susceptibility to PAHs between the paired maternal and newborn and discussed the relationship between the DNA adducts levels and the gene polymorphisms.