DNA Damage and Repair Tests for the Detection of Genotoxic Agents

In vitro tests for DNA reactivity of chemicals serve several important purposes. Genotoxins can cause toxicity, teratogenicity, mutagenicity and carcinogenicity. Positive results in reliable tests are highly predictive of potential carcinogenicity. Among available tests the hepatocyte primary culture/DNA repair test, including its modifications to provide multispecies and bacterial metabolism, has been demonstrated to be a very sensitive test. Assessment of DNA reactivity of known carcinogens also provides information on their possible mechanisms of action.