[Genotoxic properties of 5-nitrofuran compounds].

5-nitrofurans are a large group of nitro-compounds and worldwide as human and veterinary drugs, food additives or preservatives. However, many adverse effects of these compounds and among mutagenic as well as carcinogenic activities create doubts about safety of their use. Present paper deals with various mechanisms of genotoxic action of 5-nitrofurans. Main metabolic pathways leading to the formation of their active metabolites are discussed.