GENOTOXICITY TEST Meaning and
Definition
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Genotoxicity test refers to a laboratory procedure used to measure the potential of a substance or agent to cause DNA damage or mutations. It is a vital component of safety evaluation processes conducted in various fields, including pharmaceuticals, chemicals, cosmetics, and food products.
The genotoxicity test assesses the ability of a substance to induce DNA damage, which can lead to harmful effects such as cancer and genetic disorders. By identifying genotoxic substances, researchers can establish their potential risks and determine appropriate safety measures or regulatory actions to minimize exposure.
These tests employ a variety of methods to evaluate the genotoxicity of a substance. Some of the commonly used tests include the Ames test, chromosomal aberration assay, micronucleus test, and comet assay. The Ames test, for instance, utilizes bacteria to detect mutations caused by the substance being tested. The chromosomal aberration assay examines changes in the structure or number of chromosomes in cultured cells, while the micronucleus test and comet assay detect damage to the genetic material in cells.
Genotoxicity tests play a crucial role in the preclinical assessment of new drugs and chemicals, as well as in regulatory decision-making processes. The results obtained from these tests provide valuable information about the potential risks associated with exposure to certain substances. Ultimately, genotoxicity testing plays a vital role in protecting human health and preventing exposure to harmful agents.
Common Misspellings for GENOTOXICITY TEST
- fenotoxicity test
- venotoxicity test
- benotoxicity test
- henotoxicity test
- yenotoxicity test
- tenotoxicity test
- gwnotoxicity test
- gsnotoxicity test
- gdnotoxicity test
- grnotoxicity test
- g4notoxicity test
- g3notoxicity test
- gebotoxicity test
- gemotoxicity test
- gejotoxicity test
- gehotoxicity test
- genitoxicity test
- genktoxicity test
- genltoxicity test
- genptoxicity test
Etymology of GENOTOXICITY TEST
The word "genotoxicity" is derived from the combination of two root words: "geno", which relates to genetics or genes, and "toxicity", which refers to the degree of harm or damage caused by a substance.
The term "geno-" is derived from the Greek word "genos", meaning "race" or "offspring". It is commonly used in scientific contexts to indicate the involvement of genetic material or DNA.
"Toxicity" comes from the Greek word "toxikon", which refers to poison or toxin.
Therefore, the word "genotoxicity" relates to the ability of a substance or agent to cause damage or mutations in the genetic material (genes or DNA) of living organisms.
