Cytotoxic effects of zirconium oxychloride on bone marrow cells of mice

A single oral administration of an aqueous solution of zirconium oxychloride to mice of both sexes in concentrations 1/20, 1/6, 1/2 of LD50 induced chromosomal abnormalities in bone marrow cells. The frequencies of aberration were directly proportionate to the concentrations used. Female mice were found to be more susceptible than male mice, though not to a significantly higher level. This is the first report on the clastogenicity of this metal.