Question

The purpose of the Ames Test is to _______.

a) determine whether Salmonella typhimurium his- mutants can revert to his+

b) test the mutagenic effects of chemicals

c) determine whether histidine has mutagenic effects in S. typhimurium

d) study how the liver affects potential mutagens

Answer 1

The purpose of the Ames Test is to determine whether Salmonella typhimurium his- mutants can revert to his+ and identify mutagenic, potentially carcinogenic chemicals.

Step-by-step explanation:

The purpose of the Ames Test is to determine whether Salmonella typhimurium his- mutants can revert to his+. The test measures the mutation rate associated with exposure to a potential mutagenic chemical compound. By comparing the number of mutants regaining the ability to synthesize histidine in the presence of the potential mutagen with the number of mutants that arise in the absence of the mutagen, the test can identify chemicals that are mutagenic and may act as carcinogens.