Genotoxic effect of benzene hexachloride in cultured human lymphocytes.

Chromosomal aberrations, sister chromatid exchanges, mitotic index and cell kinetics were observed in human peripheral lymphocytes after treatment with four different concentrations (0.0125, 0.025, 0.05 and 0.1 microgram/ml) of benzene hexachloride (BHC), an organochlorine pesticide. Cells were treated with BHC for 24, 48 and 72 h. There was a dose-dependent increase in the frequency of chromosomal aberrations and sister chromatid exchanges. A significant decrease in mitotic index was observed at all concentrations and times of exposure. BHC did not show a significant effect on cell kinetics.