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The developmental toxicity of uranium in mice
J L Domingo1, J L Paternain, J M Llobet
1Laboratory of Toxicology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, San Lorenzo, Spain.
Toxicology
|April 1, 1989
Summary
Uranium exposure during pregnancy caused maternal health issues and fetal developmental toxicity in mice. The no observable effect level for fetotoxicity was below 5 mg/kg, indicating uranium
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Developmental Biology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Uranium exposure is a concern for public health.
- Understanding uranium's impact on prenatal development is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the developmental toxicity of uranyl acetate dihydrate in pregnant Swiss mice.
- To determine the dose-response relationship and identify the no observable effect level (NOEL).
Main Methods:
- Pregnant mice received daily oral doses of uranyl acetate dihydrate (0-50 mg/kg) during organogenesis (gestational days 6-15).
- Fetuses were examined for external, visceral, and skeletal abnormalities on gestation day 18.
- Maternal toxicity was assessed via weight gain, food consumption, and organ weights.
Main Results:
- Maternal toxicity observed, including reduced weight gain and increased liver weight.
- No effects on implantation, postimplantation loss, or fetal sex ratio.
- Dose-dependent fetal toxicity: reduced fetal weight/length and increased abnormalities (malformations, skeletal variations) at 25 and 50 mg/kg.
- NOEL for fetotoxicity and teratogenicity was below 5 mg/kg.
Conclusions:
- Uranyl acetate dihydrate causes maternal and developmental toxicity in mice.
- Significant fetal abnormalities and toxicity occur at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg.
- The study highlights the risks of uranium exposure during critical developmental periods.