Mutagenic activity in diesel exhaust particulates

Because of the increase in diesel powered automobiles, research on exhaust particles from these vehicles has been necessary. Previous studies had indicated that diesel exhaust particulates were mutagenic and mammalian enzymes are not required for activity. It is possible that these particulates may contain a different kind of mutagen. EPA testing Lab. in Ann Arbor, MI collected exhaust particulates for study. Results, though not conclusive, pointed to the possibility of nitroarene mutagens being present in diesel exhaust particulates. Further findings are summarized.