Epoxy resins are mutagenic: Implications for electron microscopists

Abstract

Epoxides, as highly reactive alkylating agents, must be suspect as mutagens. Using the Salmonella bacterial test system (the Ames test), we have confirmed the mutagenicity of 13 epoxy resins used as tissue-embedding agents in transmission electron microscopy: Quetol 651, DER 732, DER 736, vinyl cyclohexene dioxide (ERL4206), diglycidyl ether, Epon 812, Epon 828, Polybed 812, Effapoxy, and Araldite RD-2, 502, 506, and 6005. While of this group only vinyl cyclohexene dioxide is a documented animal carcinogen, the other resins have levels of mutagenicity in the same range as known epoxide carcinogens; some may be weak carcinogens which have escaped detection in animal tests. We conclude that epoxy resins should be labeled and handled as mutagens and suspect carcinogens. We discuss some factors affecting possible hazards to laboratory workers, and present a protocol for minimizing inhalation and skin contact during resin use. © 1982 Academic Press, Inc.