Transformation of Cell Cultures as an Indication of the Carcinogenic Potential of Chemicals2

Abstract

Over 30 polycyclic hydrocarbons, azo dyes, aromatic amines, and miscellaneous chemicals were tested to see if in vitro transformation of high-passage rat embryo cultures correlated with the known carcinogenic activity of the same chemicals in animals. In general, in vitro cell transformation was induced by the known carcinogens, but not by their noncarcinogenic analogues. Certain exceptions were found.