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Study of mutagenic pollution in Bombay
The Science of the Total Environment
|September 1, 1984
Summary
Airborne particulate matter in Bombay shows mutagenicity, particularly in central areas. This finding correlates with increased respiratory diseases in the local population.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- Airborne suspended particulate matter (SPM) poses environmental and health risks.
- Mutagenicity of environmental pollutants is a significant concern for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the mutagenicity of airborne SPM collected from Bombay.
- To investigate the correlation between SPM mutagenicity and respiratory diseases.
Main Methods:
- SPM collected using glass fibre filters.
- Chemical extraction using dimethylsulfoxide and distilled water.
- Mutagenicity testing via Ames' test with Salmonella typhimurium mutants (TA 100).
Main Results:
- Mutagenicity detected in SPM from four of seven studied areas.
- Dose-response assays confirmed mutagenicity in specific strains.
- High mutagenicity in central Bombay linked to higher respiratory disease incidence.
Conclusions:
- Airborne SPM in Bombay exhibits mutagenic properties.
- Geographical variations in mutagenicity exist within the city.
- A correlation between SPM mutagenicity and respiratory health issues is suggested.