Evaluation of the developmental toxicity of alpha-methyl-3,4-methylene-dioxyhydrocinnamic aldehyde in rats

The developmental toxicity of alpha-methyl-3,4-methylene-dioxyhydrocinnamic aldehyde (MMDHCA), a widely used fragrance ingredient, was evaluated for developmental toxicity in Sprague-Dawley rats (25/group; cesarean-sectioning identified 21 to 25 pregnant rats/group). Oral dosages of 0 (corn oil), 62, 125, or 250 mg/kg/day were administered by gavage on days 7 through 17 of gestation (GDs 7 through 17). Rats were observed for viability, clinical signs, body weights, and feed consumption. Necropsy and cesarean sectioning occurred on GD 21. Uteri were examined for number and distribution of implantations, live and dead fetuses, and early and late resorptions. Numbers of corpora lutea were also recorded. Fetuses were weighed and examined for gender, gross external changes, and soft tissue or skeletal alterations. Analysis of dosage preparations verified calculated dosages +/-10%. No deaths occurred. Excessive salivation occurred in all groups, but the incidence was increased at 250 mg/kg/day. The 250 mg/kg/day dosage also was associated with a significant increase in the incidences of a clear, red or yellow perioral and/or red perivaginal substance and significant reductions in mean feed consumption and body weight gains (11.6% and 7.4%, respectively) during the entire dosage period. No gross changes attributable to MMDHCA were observed at necropsy. Cesarean section or litter parameters, as well as fetal alterations, were not affected by MMDHCA at 250 mg/kg/day or either of the lower dosages tested. Based on these data, maternal and developmental no-observable-effect levels (NOAELs) of 125 and >250 mg/kg/day, respectively, were established for MMDHCA. It is concluded that MMDHCA is not a developmental toxicant in rats under the conditions of this study and dosing regimen.