The mammalian in vivo micronucleus test is used for the detection of damage induced by the test substance to the chromosomes or the mitotic apparatus of erythroblasts, by analyzing the erythrocytes as sampled in bone marrow and/or peripheral blood cells of animals, usually rodents (mice or rats).
| Test model | Mice and rats |
| Assay controls | Vehicle control: Appropriate vehicle control Positive control: Cyclophosphamide monohydrate |
| Exposure time | 24 and 48 hours. Integrated with repeat dose toxicology studies |
| Test item quantity | Top dose concentration: Quantity may vary from 2000 mg/kg to 13.2 grams |
| End point | Bone marrow or blood micronucleus (4000 polychromatic erythrocytes/ reticulocytes) |
| Data delivery | Percentage of micronuclei compared with vehicle control |
| Timeline | 11 – 12 weeks |
