In vitro genotoxicity evaluation of 4-carboxyl-2,6-dinitrophenylazohydroxynaphthalenes using human lymphocytes

► The genotoxicity of new dye series were evaluated using human lymphocytes. ► Two congeners having hydroxyl ortho and para to the azo linkage gave toxicity. ► Substituents at the C-7 position eliminated the genotoxicity. ► The genotoxicity of dyes bears a direct relationship to their chemical structure.