Conventional Test Method:

In Vitro Mammalian Chromosome Aberration Test (OECD TG 473)

Alternative Test Method:

Name & Description:

In Vitro Micronucleus Test (MNT)

This is a genotoxicity test system used for the detection of micronuclei in the cytoplasm of interphase cells to  investigate the mutagenic potential of a test compound in vitro.

Validation Status:

EU: Endorsed as valid by ESAC (2006)

Regulatory Status:

OECD: TG 487 (2010)

EU: Approved for use as part of REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) (2006)

Under consideration for revised ICH guidelines

Effect or Potential Effect on Animal Use:

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

References:

• ECVAM (2006) ESAC Statement on the scientific validity of the in vitro micronucleus test as an alternative to the in vitro chromosome aberration assay for genotoxicity testing
• ICCVAM (2009) The In vitro Mammalian Cell Micronucleus Test
• OECD (2010) OECD Guideline for Testing of Chemicals. Test Guideline 487 : In vitro Mammalian Cell Micronucleus Test
• OECD (2012) Proposal for updating guideline 487 In Vitro Mammalian Cell Micronucleus test

Information Last Reviewed:

May 2012