The dependence of the micronucleus yield in human lymphocytes on culture and cytokinesis blocking times

The cytokinesis blocked assay has been examined with human lymphocytes to determine whether changes in overall incubation time and/or time of addition of cytochalasin B to the cultures influenced the yield of micronuclei induced by 3.0 Gy of X-rays. Culture times shorter than the conventional 72 h would permit a quicker result if this technique is used as a biological dosemeter. It was found that 48 h of culture is too short but at 56, 64 or 72 h, the yields of micronuclei were constant irrespective of the times (16, 24, 32 or 44 h) that cytochalasin was added. (author)