Effects of Chemical and Physical Agents on Genetic Material

The study of the effects of chemical and physical agents on genetic material is referred to as genetic toxicology. It encompasses the study of DNA damage in live cells that results in cancer, as well as alterations in DNA that may be passed down from generation to generation.

Genetic toxicology began in 1927 when American scientist Hermann J. Muller revealed that X-rays accelerated gene mutations and chromosomal alterations in fruit flies.

Genetic toxicology’s importance is demonstrated by inheritable illnesses such as:

• Phenylketonuria (an inability to metabolize phenylalanine)
• Cystic fibrosis is a condition that affects the lungs (lung disease)
• Anemia with Sickle Cell

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