Evaluation of Arsenic Concentrations in Water and Milk and Their Association with DNA Fragmentation in Lymphocytes in Goats in the Comarca Lagunera

The Comarca Lagunera region faces groundwater quality issues due to elevated concentrations of heavy metals that exceed permissible limits set by Mexican regulations. This study aimed to evaluate arsenic concentrations in drinking water and goat milk, as well as their possible association with DNA fragmentation in goat lymphocytes in the Comarca Lagunera (Durango and Coahuila, Northern Mexico). Water, milk, and blood samples were collected from 120 goats (Capra hircus) and analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (water and milk samples) and the comet assay (blood). Arsenic concentration in drinking water varied among locations, with the highest value detected in El Venado (San Pedro, Coahuila), while other sites showed concentrations close to permissible limits. Arsenic concentrations in goat milk were generally low and mostly below the LOQ, which limited the ability to assess arsenic transfer into milk. DNA fragmentation was observed in lymphocytes; however, no statistically significant association was found between arsenic concentrations and DNA damage. These results indicate that, under the conditions of this study, DNA damage cannot be directly attributed to arsenic exposure and may be influenced by other environmental or biological factors. Further studies with larger sample sizes and additional variables are recommended.