JOURNAL ARTICLE

High-performance thin-layer chromatography–umu combined with nontarget analysis—a sensitive genotoxicity screening tool applicable for potable water analysis.

  • Published In: Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry, 2025, v. 44, n. 3. P. 662 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Flörs, Markus; Schertzinger, Gerhard; Pannekens, Helena; Seitz, Wolfram; Zwiener, Christian; Winzenbacher, Rudi 3 of 3

Abstract

This article focuses on the application of a high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC)–umu bioassay to detect genotoxic substances in raw, process, and drinking water samples from 11 German waterworks. The HPTLC-umu assay demonstrated a 250-fold higher sensitivity compared to conventional microwell plate (MWP) umu assays, enabling detection of genotoxicants at low ng/L concentrations, below established health-related indicator values. Genotoxic effects were identified in three samples, including two drinking water samples treated with chlorine disinfection, with subsequent testing by p53-CALUX and micronucleus assays confirming genotoxicity relevant to humans in some cases. Nontarget analysis coupled with HPTLC extraction revealed several halogenated features, likely disinfection by-products formed during chlorine treatment, although the exact genotoxic compounds remain unidentified. The study highlights the potential of combining HPTLC-umu with additional bioassays and high-resolution mass spectrometry for sensitive monitoring of genotoxic contaminants in drinking water and suggests further methodological improvements for routine environmental analysis.

Additional Information

  • Source:Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry. 2025/03, Vol. 44, Issue 3, p662
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Technology
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0730-7268
  • DOI:10.1093/etojnl/vgae076
  • Accession Number:183714309
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