Frequently asked questions
How chemicals affect the genetic make-up of cells: mutagenesis

Where can I find genotoxicity tests?

Standardized tests are published by international bodies such as the OECD.

Example of OECD protocols.

OECD 473: in vitro mammalian chromosome aberration test.

The aim of the in vitro chromosome aberration assay is to identify agents that cause structural chromosome aberrations in cultured mammalian cells.

Structural aberrations can be of two types: chromosomal or chromatid.

The in vitro chromosome aberration assay can use established cell line cultures, cell strains or primary cell cultures.

Cell cultures are exposed to the test substance (liquid or solid) with and without metabolic activation for approximately 1.5 times the normal cell cycle.

At least three...