scope:

This International Standard specifies a method for the determination of genotoxicity using a mammalian in vitro test which detects damage to the chromosomes or the mitotic apparatus induced by water-soluble substances. The micronucleus test allows the identification of substances that cause cytogenetic damage which results in the formation of micronuclei containing lagging chromosome fragments and/or whole chromosomes. V79 cells from the Chinese hamster are used in this assay. The assay is based on the increase in the frequency of micronucleated cells after incubation with and without metabolic activation.