mutagenic

(adjective)

Capable of causing mutation.

Related Terms

Examples of mutagenic in the following topics:

  • Damage to Proteins and Nucleic Acids

    • Bacteriostats commonly used in laboratory work include sodium azide (which is acutely toxic) and thiomersal (which is a mutagen in mammalian cells).

  • Mutation

    • Mutations are caused by radiation, viruses, transposons, and mutagenic chemicals.

  • Industrial Production of Antibiotics

    • Mutation is often used and is encouraged by introducing mutagens such as ultraviolet radiation, x-rays, or certain chemicals.

  • Genetic Analysis

    • Bacteria possess extra chromosomal genetic elements that encode for antibiotic resistance, toxins, virulence determining genes, and reduced sensitivity to mutagens such as heavy metals.

  • Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons

    • As a pollutant, they are of concern because some compounds have been identified as carcinogenic, mutagenic, and teratogenic.

  • Generalized Recombination and RecA

    • These double-strand breaks can be caused by UV light and other radiation, as well as chemical mutagens.