NCTR Research Highlights

NCTR Research Highlights
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Current Highlight from January 22, 2010

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Cosmetic Safety
National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR) microbiologists have demonstrated that normal human-skin bacteria can readily convert azo dyes, some of which are used in women's cosmetics, to metabolites that are more readily absorbed through the skin and have the potential to be DNA-damaging (genotoxic) chemicals. It is likely that multiple bacterial enzymes (specifically azo reductases) can metabolize azo dyes to these compounds, and research is continuing to characterize the range of dyes metabolized by these enzymes. These combined investigations provide data to assist FDA on analysis of the safety and toxicity of the azo dyes used in women's cosmetic products. These initial studies have been funded by the Office of Women's Health (Journal of Medical Microbiology, 2010 Vol. 59:108-114).

For further information please contact Dr. Huizhong Chen or Dr. Carl E. Cerniglia, NCTR.

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NCTR Research Highlights