A computer-assisted procedure for the assembly and analysis of short-term genotoxicity test data

Determining the genetic hazard of a chemical is generally approached by using an assortment of tests for measuring the DNA reactivity of a chemical or its resultant genotoxicity. Over 100 short-term tests employing a wide diversity of species and genetic mechanisms have been used to measure genetic hazard. To date, attempts to achieve a standard test battery for defining genetic hazard have not been successful. Consequently, testing for genetic hazard involves the use of test batteries with variable types and numbers of assays. This increases the difficulties of interpreting data sets since the data sets are often filled with inconsistent responses from diverse types of assays. Several years ago, the International Commission for Protection Against Environmental Mutagens and Carcinogens (ICPEMC) established a Committee to develop a method to compile and interpret diverse short-term test data. The Committee has produced a quantitative weight-of-evidence approach that combines test data using certain parameters such as dose, replication, and metabolic capacity into a series of scores for test type, test class, test family, and an overall score that defines the total weight-of-evidence regarding the genetic hazard of the agent. A description of the method and results from the evaluation of selected chemicals is provided.