What is the purpose of the Ames test? How are his− bacteria used in this test?

Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)
11th Edition
ISBN:9780134580999
Author:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Publisher:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Chapter1: The Human Body: An Orientation
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What is the purpose of the Ames test? How are his− bacteria used in this
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Ames test is also known as Bacterial reverse mutation test. It is a method to test a chemical whether it is a mutagen or not. It is a biological assay that uses bacteria Salmonella typhimurium histidine (his). It is used to determine the mutagenic potential of any chemical compound. A positive result may also link the mutagen to carcinogen as cancer is caused because of mutations in DNA.  It is a quick and convenient method to determine the carcinogenic potential of a compound in comparison to tests conducted on model organisms. Its main principle is reverse mutation or back mutation that’s why it is also known as bacterial reverse mutation test.

 

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