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Listen to this siteTuesday 15 August 2006
This research project seeks to evaluate the genotoxicity of azo dyes and to investigate whether the genotoxicity occurs via a threshold mechanism
Study Duration : January 2006 to December 2006.
Contractor : University of Wales Swansea
The discovery of non-permitted azo dyes in food has highlighted the paucity of toxicological data relating to this class of chemicals. In the first instance, this project will determine whether two azo dyes Sudan 1 and Para Red induce gene or chromosome mutations and, if so, particular emphasis will be placed on establishing the shape of the dose-response relationships for these effects.
This project will employ methodologies developed as part of another FSA research project (T01029 – The evaluation of the existence of thresholds of activity of genotoxic substances). Using cultured human lymphoblastoid cells, azo dyes will be assessed for their ability to induce gene mutations (at TK and HPRT loci) and chromosomal structural and numerical changes. Protocols will also be modified to allow assessment of effects of potential biotransformation of the azo dyes.
Emphasis will be placed on fully investigating the shape of the genotoxicity dose-response relationship in order to establish if this effect exhibits a threshold. Studies will also investigate potential interactions of combined exposure to azo dyes and other genotoxins with known mechanisms of action.
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