<P> Transgenic mouse assay using a mouse strain infected with a viral shuttle vector is another method for testing mutagens . Animals are first treated with suspected mutagen, the mouse DNA is then isolated and the phage segment recovered and used to infect E. coli . Using similar method as the blue - white screen, the plaque formed with DNA containing mutation are white, while those without are blue . </P> <P> Many mutagens are highly toxic to proliferating cells, and they are often used to destroy cancer cells . Alkylating agents such as cyclophosphamide and cisplatin, as well as intercalating agent such as daunorubicin and doxorubicin may be used in chemotherapy . However, due to their effect on other cells which are also rapidly dividing, they may have side effects such as hair loss and nausea . Research on better targeted therapies may reduce such side - effects . Ionizing radiations are used in radiation therapy . </P> <P> In science fiction, mutagens are often represented as substances that are capable of completely changing the form of the recipient or gaining them superpower . Powerful radiations are the agents of mutation for the superheroes in Marvel Comics's Fantastic Four, Daredevil, and Hulk, while in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise the mutagen is chemical agent also called "ooze", and for Inhumans the mutagen is the Terrigen Mist . Mutagens are also featured in television series, computer and video games, such as the Cyberia, The Witcher, Metroid Prime: Trilogy, Resistance: Fall of Man, Resident Evil, Infamous, Command & Conquer, Gears of War 3, BioShock, and Fallout . </P>

4 common environmental mutagens and how they affect genes