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AAT Bioquest

Is ethidium bromide a carcinogen?

Posted January 14, 2022


Answer

Ethidium bromide is presumed to have carcinogenic properties because of the way it interacts with DNA, changing the conformation and function of DNA. Exposure to ethidium bromide, whether via inhalation, skin absorption, or ingestion, is suspected to cause cancer. However, no studies have conclusively proved ethidium bromide’s carcinogenic nature. 

Additional resources

The mutagenic properties of DNA minor-groove binding ligand

Helixyte™ Green Nucleic Acid Gel Stain *10,000X DMSO Solution*