DNA damage produced by povidone‐iodine in cultured human diploid cells

Abstract

Povidone‐iodine is capable of selectively altering the DNA of human diploid cells growing in culture. This finding extends to eukaryotic cells, the previously reported DNA‐modifying activity of this agent for bacteria. In view of the known relationship between DNA‐modifying activity and potential carcinogenicity, the results suggest that the potential hazards posed by the widespread use of this agent be evaluated.