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The Mutagenic Effects of Gentian Violet

CSEF · 2017 Toxicology Second Award

Li F. Meinhold · La Colina Junior High School, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara County

Overview

Objectives/Goals The objective of this study was to determine the mutagenic effects of a common type of dye, gentian violet on fruit flies. Methods/Materials This study used commercially available dye, wingless fruit flies and culture kit from pet supply industry, scale, magnifying lens, microscope. Flies were divided and exposed to different concentrations of dye, and the mutation rate was measured after each generation for three generations. Results There was measurable mutagenic effect that varied with concentrations that was up to two and a half times that of the control. Conclusions/Discussion This study shows that azo dyes do have mutagenic potential in fruit flies. This fact, and the prevalence of these dyes suggests that further study into their mutagenic potential is warranted.

Summary statement

This study demonstrated that gentian violet dye causes mutations in fruit flies.

Help received

I designed this experiment myself, attempting to recreate the results of "Comparative Mutagenic Effects of Laboratory Dyes on Drosophila Melanogaster". I had a half hour interview with graduate student James Mondo who helped put the experiment in scientific context.

Awards (1)

Competition history

  • CSEF 2017 Toxicology · Entry J2212

Resources

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