DNA damage produced by povidone-iodine in cultured human diploid cells

Povidone-iodine is capable of selective altering the DNA of human diploid cells growing in culture. This finding extends to eukaryotic cells, the previously reported DNA-modifying activity of this agent for bacteria. In view of the known relationship between DNA-modifying activity and potential carcinogenicity, the results suggest that the potential hazards posed by the widespread use of this agent be evaluated.