Conventional Test Method:

No specific conventional test method is superseded

Alternative Test Method:

Name & Description:

In Vitro Mammalian  Chromosome Aberration Test

This test identifies agents that cause structural chromosome aberrations in cultured mammalian somatic cells. Cell cultures are exposed to the test compound in at least three concentrations. At predetermined intervals after exposure, the cells are treated with a metaphase-arresting substance, harvested, and stained. Metaphase cells are then analyzed microscopically for the presence of chromosome aberrations.

Validation Status:

No information

Regulatory Status:

OECD: TG 473 (1997)

US: EPA Health Effects Test Guideline POOTS 870.5375 (1998); and approved for the safety testing of food by US FDA (2003)

Effect or Potential Effect on Animal Use:

Reduction
(part of a tiered testing strategy that results in use of  fewer animals)

References:

• EPA (1998) Health effects test guidelines: OPPTS 870.5375 In vitro mammalian chromosome aberration test.
• FDA/CFSAN (2003) IV.C.1.b. In vitro mammalian chromosomal aberration test. In: Toxicological Principles for the Safety Assessment of Food Ingredients, Redbook 2000. College Park MD: US FDA.
• OECD (1997) OECD Guideline for Testing of Chemicals. Test Guideline 473: In Vitro Mammalian  Chromosome Aberration Test
• OECD (2012) OECD Proposal for updating guideline 473 In Vitro Chromosome Aberration Test

Information Last Reviewed:

May 2012