The use of rat liver perfusion to detect indirect mutagens/carcinogens in human leukocytes in vitro.

The rat liver perfusion technique in situ is used to metabolize the indirect mutagen cyclophosphamide (CP). Chromosomal damage (sister chromatid exchanges, chromatid translocations) caused by activated CP is investigated with human lymphocyte cultures in vitro, demonstrating dose- and time-effect relationships. Especially the treatment of human whole blood with CP perfusate of a recirculating perfusion system is recommended as a useful model system for the induction of chromosomal damage in peripheral lymphocytes in vivo in man.