CLASTOGEN Meaning and
Definition
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A clastogen is a substance or agent that has the potential to cause genetic damage by inducing the formation of chromosomal aberrations or breaks. Derived from the Greek words "clastos" meaning "broken" and "gen" referring to "origin" or "birth", a clastogen disrupts the normal structure and function of chromosomes, the thread-like structures in the nucleus of cells that carry genetic material.
Clastogens can provoke DNA damage primarily through two mechanisms: clastogenic effects that result in chromosomal damage, such as breakages, translocations, or deletions, and aneugenic effects that lead to an abnormal number of chromosomes. Exposure to clastogens can occur through a variety of means, including consumption, inhalation, or direct contact, and they can be found in various environmental and artificially synthesized substances.
The consequences of clastogen-induced genetic damage can range from cell death and reproductive abnormalities to the development of genetic disorders in plants, animals, and humans. Clastogenic agents are of particular concern due to their potential to cause mutations, which can increase the risk of carcinogenesis and birth defects. Therefore, clastogen testing is an essential component of assessing the safety and potential hazards of chemicals in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and food additives.
In summary, a clastogen is a substance that has the ability to induce genetic damage by disrupting the structure and function of chromosomes, potentially leading to various health risks and genetic abnormalities.
Common Misspellings for CLASTOGEN
- xlastogen
- vlastogen
- flastogen
- dlastogen
- ckastogen
- cpastogen
- coastogen
- clzstogen
- clsstogen
- clwstogen
- clqstogen
- claatogen
- claztogen
- claxtogen
- cladtogen
- claetogen
- clawtogen
- clasrogen
- clasfogen
- clasgogen
Etymology of CLASTOGEN
The word "clastogen" is a compound term combining the Greek word "klas" meaning "break" or "shatter", and the suffix "-gen" derived from the Greek root "gen" meaning "to cause" or "to produce". Therefore, the etymology of "clastogen" can be understood as "a substance or agent that causes breaks or shatters". In a scientific context, "clastogen" is often used to refer to substances that induce breakage in chromosomes or other genetic material, potentially leading to mutations or genetic damage.
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