The detection of carcinogen-induced sperm head abnormalities in mice.

The (CBA X BALB/c(F1 male mouse is sensitive to the induction of sperm-head abnormalities after exposure to a range of chemical mutagens and carcinogens. 8 carcinogens including ethionine and diethyl stilboestrol were correctly identified. 23 non-carcinogens and compounds of unknown carcinogenicity including a range of 13 substituted anilines and methionine did not induce sperm-head abnormalities. 4-Aminophenol induced an increase in sperm-head abnormalities. The utility of the procedure for identifying genotoxic compounds is discussed.