Sometimes it takes darkness to see the light: pitfalls in the interpretation of cell proliferation markers (Ki-67 and PCNA).

The degree of cell proliferation in a tumor is often associated with metastatic risk and mortality. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and Ki-67 are proliferation markers that can be used to assess malignant potential in cutaneous lesions and pathological cell proliferation in psoriasis. These markers are elevated during periods of cell proliferation; however, they are also upregulated following UV irradiation.

Mutagenicity of vaginal spermicides containing nonoxynol-9 in a bacterial assay.

Objective: To evaluate the potential mutagenicity of 3 commonly used over-the-counter spermicidal gels containing nonoxynol-9 as the active ingredient.

Study Design: The gels were examined for their ability to produce mutations in a bacterial assay (Ames test). The results were compared with those from testing a series of nonantibacterial and antibacterial personal prwhen there is antibacterial personal products that come into contact with mucous membranes as well as some caustic, nonpersonal home products and a known mutagen.