Italian researchers have evaluated the genotoxic activity of PM2.5 in order to identify the mutagenic properties of this pollutant using sampled airborne particles in Turin for 3 years. The sampling site was chosen for its short distance from high traffic areas, including roads and streets as well as bus stops and railway stations. The PM2.5 content in these airborne samples was quantified. The samples were then used to perform mutagenic tests using Salmonella typhimurium, a bacterium that is well known for its hyper-sensitivity to mutagenic and carcinogenic agents. Mutagenic tests revealed that the mutagenic activity of the airborne samples is positive. And during winter, mutagenic activity is up to 8 times higher than in summer. The PM2.5 concentrations are correlated with the mutagenic activity indicating that PM2.5 has a high mutagenic potency.

URL: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/integration/research/newsalert/pdf/57na3.pdf