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Sister chromatid exchange induced by anti-herpes drugs

Insights

This study assessed the mutagenicity of anti-herpes agents 5-iodo-deoxyuridine (IDU), 5-trifluoromethyl-deoxyuridine (TFT), and [E]-5-(2-bromovinyl)-deoxyuridine (BVDU). TFT showed mutagenic potential at low concentrations, while IDU and BVDU were only mutagenic at high levels.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Genetics
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Sister chromatid exchange (SCE) is a sensitive indicator of chromosomal damage and potential mutagenicity.
  • Anti-herpes agents are crucial for treating viral infections, but their genotoxic potential requires careful evaluation.
  • Understanding the mutagenicity of antiviral drugs is essential for ensuring patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the mutagenic potential of three anti-herpes agents: 5-iodo-deoxyuridine (IDU), 5-trifluoromethyl-deoxyuridine (TFT), and [E]-5-(2-bromovinyl)-deoxyuridine (BVDU).
  • To assess the relationship between the concentration of these agents and the induction of sister chromatid exchange (SCE) in human cells.
  • To provide data on the safety profile of these anti-herpes agents at therapeutic concentrations.

Main Methods:

  • Human lymphocytes and fibroblasts were exposed to varying concentrations of IDU, TFT, and BVDU.
  • The rate of sister chromatid exchange (SCE) was measured in treated cells as an indicator of genotoxicity.
  • Comparative analysis of SCE rates was performed for each agent and concentration.

Main Results:

  • 5-trifluoromethyl-deoxyuridine (TFT) significantly increased the rate of sister chromatid exchange (SCE) at a concentration of 0.5 mg/l.
  • 5-iodo-deoxyuridine (IDU) and [E]-5-(2-bromovinyl)-deoxyuridine (BVDU) did not induce significant SCE except at a high concentration of 50 mg/l.
  • TFT induced SCE at its minimal antiviral concentration, whereas BVDU did not induce SCE at therapeutic concentrations.

Conclusions:

  • TFT exhibits mutagenic potential at concentrations relevant to its antiviral activity, suggesting caution in its use.
  • BVDU appears safer at therapeutic concentrations, showing no significant mutagenic effects.
  • The study highlights the differential genotoxic profiles of anti-herpes agents, emphasizing the importance of individualized safety assessments.

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