automation of the in vitro micronucleus and chromosome aberration assay for the assessment of the genotoxicity of the particulate and gas–vapor phase of cigarette smoke

Introduction:
This text describes a study that aimed to assess the capabilities of automated and semi-automated versions of the in vitro micronucleus (MN) and chromosome aberration (Ca) assays in evaluating the genotoxicity of cigarette smoke. The study used two smoke fractions, total particulate matter (TPM) and gas-vapor phase (GVP), and applied them to V79-4 Chinese hamster lung fibroblasts using two test durations and two metabolic activation conditions. The study also compared the results obtained from automated and non-automated evaluation methods.

Key Points:

* The study used two smoke fractions, TPM and GVP, applied to V79-4 Chinese hamster lung fibroblasts using two test durations and two metabolic activation conditions.
* The study compared the results obtained from automated and non-automated evaluation methods for the MN and Ca assays.
* The automated MN assay resulted in smaller standard errors and lower data variability compared to the non-automated method.
* The automated Ca assay could not fully automate the identification of different categories of Cas but could still increase the throughput time significantly.
* The study found that TPM and GVP caused a significant genotoxic effect in both the MN and Ca assays.
* The time savings due to automation were approximately 70% in the MN and 25% in the Ca assays.
* The turn-around time for the evaluation phase was shortened by 35% and 50% in the MN and Ca assays, respectively.

Main Message:
The study demonstrates that automation and semi-automation of the MN and Ca assays can improve the efficiency and accuracy of genotoxicity testing. The automated MN assay, in particular, showed significant improvements in data variability and time savings. The study also suggests that these technical improvements can be useful for testing other test substances, not just cigarette smoke. Overall, the study highlights the potential of automation to enhance the reliability and efficiency of genotoxicity testing.

Roemer, Ewald, Volker Zenzen, Lynda L. Conroy, Kathrin Luedemann, Ruth Dempsey, Christian Schunck, and Edgar Trelles Sticken. “automation of the in Vitro Micronucleus and Chromosome aberration assay for the assessment of the Genotoxicity of the Particulate and Gas–Vapor Phase of Cigarette Smoke.” Toxicology Mechanisms and Methods 25, no. 4 (May 4, 2015): 320–33. https://doi.org/10.3109/15376516.2015.1037413.