The in vitro micronucleus test assesses induction of chromosomal damage upon chemical exposure. Micronuclei are cytoplasmic chromosomes or chromosome fragments that result from DNA strand breaks or incorrect chromosome segregation during cell division. The micronucleus test detects genotoxic substances with clastogenic and aneugenic activity.
Key Characteristics
- Regulatory in vitro genotoxicity assay
- Highly sensitive in vitro assay for detection of chromosome damage
- Can be performed in the ToxTracker mES cells
- Suitable for automated high-throughout screening
In Vitro Micronucleus Test
The in vitro micronucleus (MNvit) test is a genotoxicity test for the detection of micronuclei (MN) in the cytoplasm of interphase cells. Micronuclei may originate from acentric chromosome fragments (i.e. lacking a centromere), or whole chromosomes that are unable to migrate to the poles during the anaphase stage of cell division. Therefore the MNvit test is an in vitro method that provides a comprehensive basis for investigating chromosome damaging potential in vitro because both aneugens and clastogens can be detected in cells that have undergone cell division during or after exposure to the test chemical. Micronuclei represent damage that has been transmitted to daughter cells, whereas chromosome aberrations scored in metaphase cells may not be transmitted. In either case, the changes may not be compatible with cell survival.
Click here to view the OECD guideline for the In Vitro Mammalian Cell Micronucleus Test.
Application
We offer the in vitro micronucleus test as additional assay to the ToxTracker in fee for service projects. We often use the ToxTracker cells, but can also use other cell types according to your specifications.
