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Effects of gestational exposure to Tordon 202c on fetal growth and development in CD-1 mice
P M Blakley1, J S Kim, G D Firneisz
1Department of Veterinary Physiological Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada.
Abstract:
The teratogenic effects of Tordon 202c, a picloram and 2,4-D combination formulation, are unknown. Pregnant CD-1 mice were exposed to Tordon 202c in the drinking water at concentrations of 0.10, 0.21, and 0.42% from d 6 to 15 of gestation. Fetal growth parameters, including body weight and crown-rump length, were reduced in a dose-dependent manner, as was placental weight. The incidence of dead fetuses/resorptions and malformed fetuses (especially cleft palate) was increased in the highest dosage group. A subtle indication of maternal toxicity was noted in the highest dosage group as evidenced by decreased water consumption and increased relative liver weight. The present study suggests that Tordon 202c is embryotoxic and teratogenic in CD-1 mice when administered during organogenesis.
Insights
Tordon 202c, a pesticide containing picloram and 2,4-D, caused birth defects and fetal death in mice. This study indicates the formulation is embryotoxic and teratogenic, posing risks during pregnancy.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Developmental Biology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- The teratogenic potential of Tordon 202c, a combination herbicide of picloram and 2,4-D, has not been previously established.
- Understanding the developmental toxicity of widely used agricultural chemicals is crucial for public health and environmental safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential teratogenic and embryotoxic effects of Tordon 202c in a rodent model.
- To determine the dose-dependent effects of Tordon 202c exposure during critical periods of gestation.
Main Methods:
- Pregnant CD-1 mice were administered Tordon 202c in drinking water at three different concentrations (0.10%, 0.21%, 0.42%) from day 6 to 15 of gestation.
- Fetal development was assessed by examining parameters such as body weight, crown-rump length, placental weight, incidence of resorptions, and fetal malformations.
- Maternal toxicity was evaluated through water consumption and relative liver weight.
Main Results:
- Exposure to Tordon 202c resulted in a dose-dependent reduction in fetal body weight, crown-rump length, and placental weight.
- The highest exposure group exhibited an increased incidence of fetal resorptions and malformations, notably cleft palate.
- Maternal exposure showed subtle signs of toxicity, including decreased water intake and increased relative liver weight at the highest dose.
Conclusions:
- Tordon 202c demonstrates significant embryotoxic and teratogenic effects in CD-1 mice when exposure occurs during the organogenesis period.
- The findings highlight the risks associated with Tordon 202c exposure during pregnancy, particularly concerning fetal development and malformations.
- Further research is warranted to assess the risks in other species and to establish safe exposure limits for this herbicide formulation.