Retinoids mutagenicity

Modulation of Mutagenesis by 3-carotene and 13-cis-Retinoic Acid. The provitamin 3-carotene, and a synthetic derivative of vitamin A, 13-cis-retinoic acid, were examined with respect to their capacity to modulate 2-fluorenamine-induced mutagenicity in Salmonella. These studies were carried out since dietary and serum levels of 3-carotene vary widely among humans. Also, there is considerable interest in the anti-tumor activity of 13-cis-retinoic acid and other synthetic retinoids. 

In no instance did the synthetic retinoid possess as great an inhibitory capacity as do retinol or retinyl acetate. In addition, the provitamin g-carotene had no effect on mutagenicity of 2-fluorenamine in Salmonella regardless of the carcinogen activation system (Tables III and IV). Thus, 3-carotene would apparently require enzymatic cleavage to vitamin A in order to have an effect in this ijri vitro bioassay and exerts no role by itself in modulating the metabolism of chemical carcinogens in the model system. 

There is no effect of retinoids on mutagenicity induced in Salmonella by direct-acting carcinogens. 

The modulation of mutagenicity of aromatic amines in Salmonella is not a result of (a) PCB treatment of rats, or the presence of residual PCB s in liver preparations, (b) vagaries of the Salmonella plate test, or (c) the effect of retinoids upon bacterial viability. 

Similar effects were observed with the synthetic retinoid 13-cis-retinoic acid, while 3-carotene was without effect in modulating the mutagenicity of aromatic amines in Salmonella. 

Kochhar DM, Penner JD, Tellone C (1984) Comparative teratogenic activities of two retinoids Effects on palate and limb development. Teratogen Carcinogen Mutagen 4 377-387... 

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