Cytogenetic testing of mutagenic and radioprotective effects of mesna

The effects of mesna (sodium 2-mercaptoethane-sulfonate) on the frequency of sister chromatid exchange (SCE) and chromosomal aberrations were studied in PHA-stimulated lymphocytes in vitro. Our data give no evidence for either an increase of SCE or chromosomal aberrations and, thus, do not suggest a mutagenic or cancerogenic potential of this drug, when used clinically for the reduction of urotoxicity caused by oxazaphosphorine derivatives in cancer therapy. The possibility of a radioprotective effect of mesna could not be supported by the results obtained in this test system. However, there remained a slight comutagenic effect of mesna, if used together with irradiation, which should be taken into account when this drug is administered in the preparation of patients for bone marrow transplantation.