Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 2, 2026
10:49
Measuring Rates of Herbicide Metabolism in Dicot Weeds with an Excised Leaf Assay
Published on: September 7, 2015
Increased lymphocyte replicative index following 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid herbicide exposure
L W Figgs1, N T Holland, N Rothmann
1School of Public Health, St Louis University, MO 63108-3342, USA. figgslw@slu.edu
Cancer Causes & Control : CCC
|June 8, 2000
Summary
Exposure to 2,4-D herbicide may increase lymphocyte proliferation. Urinary 2,4-D levels, a biomarker of exposure, showed a potential association with increased lymphocyte replicative index (RI) in herbicide applicators.
Area of Science:
- Environmental toxicology
- Occupational health
- Immunology
Background:
- 2,4-D is a widely used herbicide.
- Assessing the health effects of herbicide exposure is crucial for occupational safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate peripheral blood lymphocyte proliferation (replicative index: RI) and micronuclei frequency (MF) in 2,4-D herbicide applicators.
- To investigate the relationship between urinary 2,4-D levels and biomarkers of lymphocyte response.
Main Methods:
- Twelve 2,4-D applicators and nine controls provided blood and urine samples.
- Urinary 2,4-D levels were measured using gas chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry.
- In-vitro assays assessed lymphocyte replicative index (RI) and micronuclei frequency (MF).
Main Results:
- Urinary 2,4-D concentrations increased with spraying time.
- Applicator RI significantly increased after spraying (p = 0.016).
- A weak dose-response relationship was observed between urinary 2,4-D levels and RI (p = 0.15).
Conclusions:
- Urinary 2,4-D concentration may be associated with the lymphocyte replicative index.
- This suggests a potential link between 2,4-D exposure and cellular immune response.
