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Updated: Sep 14, 2026
Germ Cell Transplantation and Testis Tissue Xenografting in Mice
Published on: February 6, 2012
Clastogenicity to the mouse bone marrow of the mouse germ cell genotoxin streptozotocin
U Liegibel1, H Tinwell, R D Callander
1ICI Central Toxicology Laboratory, Macclesfield, Cheshire, UK.
Abstract:
The methylating agent streptozotocin is active in the mouse bone marrow micronucleus assay following a single intraperitoneal injection of 150-180 mg/kg. This correlates with its previously reported toxicity to mouse germ cells when administered by the same route of exposure. The potent mutagenicity of streptozotocin to strain G46 of Salmonella typhimurium is compared with its much weaker activity in strain TA1535. The genotoxicity of streptozotocin in vivo is reviewed.
Insights
The methylating agent streptozotocin is genotoxic in mice and bacteria. It causes DNA damage in bone marrow cells and exhibits mutagenicity in Salmonella typhimurium strains.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Genetics
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Streptozotocin is a methylating agent with known toxicity.
- Its genotoxic effects require further investigation in vivo and in vitro.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the genotoxicity of streptozotocin in the mouse bone marrow micronucleus assay.
- To compare its mutagenicity in different Salmonella typhimurium strains.
- To review the in vivo genotoxicity of streptozotocin.
Main Methods:
- Mouse bone marrow micronucleus assay following intraperitoneal injection.
- Bacterial mutagenicity testing using Salmonella typhimurium strains G46 and TA1535.
Main Results:
- Streptozotocin (150-180 mg/kg) was active in the mouse bone marrow micronucleus assay.
- It showed potent mutagenicity in Salmonella typhimurium strain G46, but weaker activity in strain TA1535.
- Results correlate with previously reported germ cell toxicity.
Conclusions:
- Streptozotocin demonstrates significant genotoxicity in vivo in mice.
- Its mutagenic potential varies across bacterial strains.
- Further review of its in vivo genotoxicity is warranted.
