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Clastogen

Definition

• A clastogen is a substance that cause breaks in chromosomes that result in the gain, loss, or rearrangements of chromosomal segments. Clastogens can also cause sister chromatid exchanges, the interchanges and reunions that occur during the processes of mitosis or meiosis (DNA replication).

Additional Info

Clastogens break and/or damage your DNA. If the cell dies, then there may be no further health effect. But if the altered/damaged cell's DNA functions and is replicated (reproduced; passed on), this may lead to mutagenesis or carcinogenesis. While all gene mutations generally involve clastogenesis, the reverse is not always true - not all clastogens produce gene mutations.

Examples of known human clastogens include certain anti-cancer drugs, benzene, ethylene oxide and inorganic arsenic. X-ray and ultraviolet radiation can also be considered clastogens.

Books Available

• "Introduction to the Cellular and Molecular Biology of Cancer", Paperback, 552 pages, 2005. Estimated price: $101.00. Info and/or order.
• "DNA Repair And Mutagenesis", Hardcover, 1,118 pages, 2005. Estimated price: $79.56. Info and/or order.
• "The Principles of Clinical Cytogenetics", Hardcover, 616 pages, 2004. Estimated price: $107.62. Info and/or order.
• "Biology of Cancer", Paperback, 850 pages, 2006. Estimated price: $99.54. Info and/or order.

MSDS Relevance Obviously, any possible damage to your DNA is a Bad Thing. Treat all clastogens with the same respect you would afford a carcinogenic substance. Use proper engineering controls such as a fume hood whenever possible and always use proper personal protective equipment such as gloves or respiratory protection. Further Reading You can download Guidance On A Strategy For Testing Of Chemicals For Mutagenicity by the Committee of Mutagenicity as a PDF file from UK Department of Health. See also: carcinogen, cytotoxin, mutagen. Additional definitions from Google and OneLook.

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Disclaimer: The information contained herein is believed to be true and accurate, however ILPI makes no guarantees concerning the veracity of any statement. Use of any information on this page is at the reader's own risk. ILPI strongly encourages the reader to consult the appropriate local, state and federal agencies concerning the matters discussed herein.