PROBLEMS OF TESTING DRUGS FOR POTENTIAL MUTAGENICITY

Unlike ionizing radiation, which is universally active in terms of its potential for mutagenicity, there may be many interactions between a (mutagenic) compound and an organism, all of which may determine whether genetic damage is expressed. The testing of compunds, the interpretation of results and the attempts to evaluate risks or to recommend protocols are not as simple steps as they may appear. The uncertainties and problems mentioned indicate the need for more basic research in chemical mutagenicity. Testing should be done, but stringent guide lines and mass-screening philosophy should be avoided, particularly with respect to pharmaceutical drug candidates. An over-all approach where compounds are evaluated on an individual basis may provide a better solution to the problem of mutagenicity safety testing.