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Mutagenic compounds in chlorinated pulp bleaching waters and drinking waters.
1Laboratory of Forest Products Chemistry, Abo Akademi, Finland.
IARC Scientific Publications
|January 1, 1990
Summary
The potent bacterial mutagen MX, identified in wood pulp and drinking water, significantly contributes to the mutagenicity of chlorinated water. Related compounds and brominated analogues have also been found, with further research needed on their genotoxicity.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Chemistry
- Toxicology
- Microbiology
Background:
- 3-chloro-4-(dichloromethyl)-5-hydroxy-2(5H)-furanone (MX) is a potent bacterial mutagen.
- MX was first identified in wood pulp chlorination waters in 1980.
- This compound was later detected in chlorinated drinking water in 1986.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the isolation and identification of MX.
- To discuss the significance of MX in chlorinated drinking water mutagenicity.
- To examine unanswered questions regarding MX and related compounds.
Main Methods:
- Review of isolation and identification studies.
- Ames test for mutagenicity assessment.
- Identification of related chlorinated and brominated furanones.
Main Results:
- MX is an extremely potent bacterial mutagen.
- MX accounts for a significant portion of chlorinated drinking water mutagenicity.
- Related compounds (E-MX, oxidized/reduced forms) and brominated analogues have been identified.
Conclusions:
- MX is a major contributor to the mutagenicity of chlorinated water.
- Further research is needed on the chemistry and genotoxicity of MX and related mutagens.