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Genetic activity of trimethoprim in the Salmonella/microsomal screening system
Abstract:
Trimethoprim, a widely used antibacterial drug was tested for its mutagenic potential in the Ames Salmonella/microsomal test system. The results indicated that, when used in the recommended dose range, the drug produced a several-fold increase in the reversion mutations on his(-)----his+ marker in some of the tester strains, compared with the spontaneous reversions. Dose-dependent curves were also obtained for reversion mutations caused by the drug. Ethyl methanesulfonate and benzo[alpha]pyrene were used a control mutagens.
Insights
Trimethoprim, an antibacterial drug, showed mutagenic potential in Ames tests, increasing bacterial mutations at recommended doses. Further research is needed to understand its genotoxicity risks.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Toxicology
- Genetics
Background:
- Trimethoprim is a commonly prescribed antibiotic.
- Assessing drug mutagenicity is crucial for public health and safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the mutagenic potential of trimethoprim using the Ames test.
- To determine if trimethoprim induces mutations in bacterial strains.
Main Methods:
- The Ames Salmonella/microsomal test system was employed.
- Bacterial strains with specific genetic markers (his(-) to his+) were used.
- Control mutagens like ethyl methanesulfonate and benzo[alpha]pyrene were included.
Main Results:
- Trimethoprim significantly increased reversion mutations in certain tester strains.
- A dose-dependent relationship was observed between trimethoprim concentration and mutation frequency.
- Mutagenic effects were noted even within the recommended therapeutic dose range.
Conclusions:
- Trimethoprim exhibits mutagenic activity in the Ames test system.
- The drug's genotoxic potential warrants further investigation.
- Caution may be advised regarding trimethoprim use, particularly with long-term or high-dose exposure.