Genotoxic agents detected by plant bioassays

Area of Science:

• Environmental Toxicology
• Plant Science
• Genetics

Background:

• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) Gene-Tox program in the late 1970s evaluated genotoxicity detection using higher plant species.
• Seven plant species including Allium cepa, Arabidopsis thaliana, and Zea mays were assessed for their genotoxic detection capabilities.
• Established bioassays like root tip chromosome breaks and stamen-hair mutations were utilized.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and compile chemical agents that demonstrated genotoxicity in established plant bioassays.
• To categorize identified chemicals as carcinogens, clastogens, or mutagens based on plant assay results and U.S. EPA criteria.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of 158 articles focusing on plant bioassays for genotoxicity.
• Compilation of 84 chemicals exhibiting positive responses in seven specific plant bioassays.
• Categorization of chemicals based on U.S. EPA Superfund Priority 1 List and Sigma/Aldrich Chemical Company listings for carcinogens.

Main Results:

• Eight-four chemicals were identified as genotoxic through seven plant bioassays.
• Chemicals were classified into carcinogens, clastogens, and mutagens.
• Plant bioassays successfully detected clastogenic and mutagenic potential.

Conclusions:

• Plant bioassays are valuable tools for detecting genotoxicity of environmental agents.
• The reviewed plant systems and bioassays provide a foundation for environmental monitoring.
• While not detecting tumor initiation, these assays effectively identify potential carcinogens and mutagens.