HealthAugust 15, 2026

mutagens

MYOO-tuh-guhnz

Definition

Substances or agents that increase the frequency of mutation in an organism's DNA, potentially altering genetic information.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'mutare' (to change) combined with the suffix '-gen' (that which produces), coined in the mid-20th century to describe agents that induce genetic mutations.

In the news

The article mentions that Dr. Bruce Ames developed a test capable of detecting mutagens in common foods, which led the public to mistakenly fear that items like coffee were dangerous.

Are We Exposed to More Heavy Metals Today?

Read the full article ↗

The Good Men Project

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