The possible effect of high concentrations of propylene glycol on mitosis in human lymphocytes in vitro.

: The effect of three concentrations, 1, 2 and 4 per cent, of propylene glycol has been investigated on human lymphocytes in vitro. An increased ratio of anaphase cells was observed at 4 per cent propylene glycol in the culture medium, when added for the last 24 h in 72 h blood cultures. No change in chromosome number has concomitantly been observed. A weak stathmokynetic action was induced by the same concentration of propylene glycol if administered for the final two hours of cell cultivation. These effects could be due to a delay in the normal sequence of the sister chromatid separation during mitosis, induced by the highest drug concentration.