Mutagenicity studies of FAVOR PAC

A series of in vitro and in vivo assays have been conducted using FAVOR PAC (CAS Registry No. 9003-04-7), a cross-linked sodium polyacrylate polymer, to test its ability to induce mutations. FAVOR PAC is a member of the FAVOR family of superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) developed by Stockhausen GmbH & C o HG (Krefeld, Germany). These SAPs are known for their ability to retain l arge volumes of fluid, even against pressure. The genotoxic potential of FA VOR PAC and its extracts was examined in the following five standard mutage nicity assays: the Salmonella typhimurium and Escherichia coil reverse muta tion assay, the mouse lymphoma fluctuation assay, the mouse lymphoma forwar d mutation assay, the in vivo mouse micronucleus assay, and an in vitro rat DNA synthesis assay. Based on the results of these assays, it was conclude d that FAVOR PAC was clearly not genotoxic under any of the conditions of t he mutagenicity assays performed. (C) 2000 Academic Press.