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AAT Bioquest

Is BrdU (Bromodeoxyuridine) a carcinogen?

Posted September 3, 2021


Answer

Yes, BrdU (Bromodeoxyuridine) is a suspected carcinogen.

BrdU is a thymidine analog that is incorporated into a cell’s DNA when the cell is dividing. Studies indicate that BrdU (Bromodeoxyuridine) disrupts the normal activity of the cell and may have strongly teratogenic, cytotoxic, and mutagenic properties. When possible, it is advisable to use a safer, less toxic alternative. When BrdU is used, care must be taken to keep the exposure as low as possible. Exposure to BrdU (Bromodeoxyuridine) can occur via ingestion, inhalation, accidental injection or tissue absorption. 

Additional resources

Effect of 5-bromodeoxyuridine substitution on sister chromatid exchange induction by chemicals

BrdU [5-Bromo-2'-deoxyuridine] *CAS 59-14-3*