What Is the In Vivo Mammalian Erythrocyte Micronucleus Test?
The In Vivo Mammalian Erythrocyte Micronucleus Test is one of the key genotoxicity tests conducted to assess a substance’s potential to cause chromosomal damage in a living organism. Conducted in accordance with the OECD TG 474 guideline, this study determines whether the tested substances cause micronucleus formation in erythrocytes from bone marrow or peripheral blood.
This test is frequently preferred in cases where positive results have been obtained in in vitro genotoxicity studies or where additional confirmation is required. It plays a significant role in the safety assessments of pharmaceuticals, biocidal products, medical devices, veterinary products, and industrial chemicals.
At NanoTox, within our Genetic Toxicology Unit, we offer In Vivo Mammalian Erythrocyte Micronucleus Test services in accordance with GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) principles.
Purpose of the In Vivo Mammalian Erythrocyte Micronucleus Test
This test aims to determine whether a substance causes chromosomal damage or chromosome loss in a living organism.
Bu çalışmalar sayesinde:
- Genotoxic potential is assessed,
- Chromosomal damage is detected,
- Risk değerlendirme süreçleri desteklenmektedir,
- Düzenleme gereksinimleri karşılanır,
- Safety data regarding human health is obtained.
The results obtained play a significant role in establishing the genetic safety profile of products.
What Is a Micronucleus?
Micronuclei are small nuclear structures consisting of chromosome fragments or entire chromosomes that fail to incorporate into the main nucleus during cell division.
These structures can indicate:
- Chromosomal breaks,
- DNA damage,
- Chromosome losses,
- Cellular genetic instability
.
For this reason, micronucleus formation is recognized as a reliable biomarker in in vivo genotoxicity assessments.
Studies Conducted in Accordance with OECD TG 474
Studies conducted at NanoTox are carried out in accordance with OECD Test Guideline 474 – Mammalian Erythrocyte Micronucleus Test.
Under this guideline:
- An appropriate experimental design is applied,
- Positive and negative control groups are used,
- Dose levels are determined according to scientific criteria,
- Bone marrow or peripheral blood samples are evaluated,
- Micronucleus frequency is statistically analyzed.
OECD TG 474 is one of the fundamental in vivo genotoxicity tests accepted by international regulatory authorities.
Test Prensibi
After the test substance is administered at specified doses, bone marrow or peripheral blood samples are collected. Micronuclei formed in erythrocytes are counted using microscopic methods for evaluation.
In particular, the following are examined in the studies:
- Polychromatic erythrocyte (PCE) ratios,
- Number of erythrocytes with micronuclei,
- Cytotoxicity indicators,
- Dose-response ilişkileri
araştırılıyor.
Through these evaluations, the test substance’s potential to cause chromosomal damage can be determined.
Parametreler Test Kapsam içinde Evaluated
Within the scope of the In Vivo Mammalian Erythrocyte Micronucleus Test:
- Micronucleus frequency,
- Chromosomal damage indicators,
- Erythrocyte ratios,
- Bone marrow toxicity,
- Dose-response relationship,
- Statistical evaluations
are analyzed.
These data enable a scientific assessment of the in vivo genotoxic potential of the tested substance.
Reliable Genetic Toxicology Studies with NanoTox
NanoTox conducts In Vivo Mammalian Erythrocyte Micronucleus Tests in accordance with international standards, utilizing experienced scientists, modern laboratory infrastructure, and a GLP-compliant work system. We provide reliable genetic toxicity data required in the development processes of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, biocidal products, and chemical substances.
For detailed information about the In Vivo Mammalian Erythrocyte Micronucleus Test and our other genetic toxicology services, please contact NanoTox.




