I: Background and Purpose: 

Tamoxifen is a selective estrogen receptor modulator and commonly administered to animal in studies. It is a known human carcinogen, teratogen, and mutagen. Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) and other non-radioactive DNA precursors is an artificial nucleoside that substitutes for thymine during DNA replication and is commonly used to identify replicating cells in living tissue. Because BrdU can displace thymine in replicating DNA it is mutagenic. The potential health hazards of Tamoxifen and BrdU require specific procedures to be followed when used in animal studies.

II: Related Policies

Policy#: 529-346 ANIMAL USE PROCEDURE: AAV viral vector treatments in rodents

III: Policy:

• Laboratory staff working with Tamoxifen, BrdU, and other non-radioactive DNA precursors must complete and sign a SOP before initiating work (contact EH&S for SOP templates) 

• Cages are clearly labeled with the chemical and treatment date

• Bags with contaminated bedding must be double-bagged in yellow trace-chemo waste bags, and labeled with the name of the hazard, the PI name, and location.

• Bedding from animals treated with Tamoxifen, BrdU, or other non-radioactive DNA precursors must be treated as chemically contaminated up to and including the first cage change that occurs at least 72 hours following the final administration

• After the cage change occurring at least 72 hours after final administration, the chemical hazard labeling may be removed and the cage and bedding may subsequently receive standard care.

 Approved: 02/11/2020, Reviewed: 03/11/2024