On the effects of some carcinogenic hydrocarbons on the growth of sporelings of marine red algae

Abstract

Low concentrations of various carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons cause a considerable increase in cell production when applied to sporelings of certain marine red algae. Whereas low concentrations of carcinogenic derivatives of benzanthracene stimulate cell production, similar concentrations of structurally related non-carcinogens inhibit it. The applicability of the method as a rapid screening test for carcinogens is discussed.