Characterization of microbial mutagens in complex samples—methodology and application

Methodologies for characterization of mutagens in complex mixtures have been reviewed. The methods discussed include successive fractionation with various solvents, combinations of chemical fractionation and bio‐assay directed analyses and separation with in situ testing using thin layer chromatography or other separation techniques. In all cases the discussions are limited to the Ames Salmonella assay as detection method for mutagenicity. Particular problems in testing complex samples such as bacterial toxicity, synergistic or antagonistic effects are also discussed. Applications of the methods are reviewed. These applications include environmental samples such as airborne particles, water pollutants, and consumer products.