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Subchronic toxicology of butyl nitrites in mice by inhalation
Abstract:
Mice were exposed by inhalation to n-butyl, iso-butyl sec-butyl or tert-butyl nitrite in a dynamic airflow chamber 7 h per day for 60 days at concentrations that caused less than 20% fatalities. Under these conditions, body-weight gain was depressed over the first 30 days by all four compounds, but returned to normal over the final 30 days for all compounds except tert-butyl nitrite. Spleen weights were increased by all four butyl nitrites, and lung weights were increased by all except sec-butyl nitrite. Kidney weights were increased by iso-butyl and sec-butyl nitrites, but decreased by the tert-butyl compound. Liver weights were increased by iso-butyl nitrite exposure and decreased by tert-butyl nitrite exposure. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that a significant aspect of butyl nitrite toxicity is due to the resultant methemoglobinemia.
Insights
Butyl nitrites caused significant toxicity in mice, affecting body weight and organ weights. These toxic effects may be linked to methemoglobinemia, a condition impacting oxygen transport.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Butyl nitrites are industrial chemicals with potential health risks.
- Understanding the toxicological profile of different butyl nitrite isomers is crucial for risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the subchronic inhalation toxicity of four butyl nitrite isomers in mice.
- To evaluate the effects of butyl nitrites on body weight, organ weights, and to explore the potential role of methemoglobinemia.
Main Methods:
- Mice were exposed to n-butyl, iso-butyl, sec-butyl, or tert-butyl nitrite via inhalation for 7 hours/day over 60 days.
- Body weight and organ weights (spleen, lung, kidney, liver) were measured.
- The study assessed toxicity at concentrations causing less than 20% fatalities.
Main Results:
- All butyl nitrites decreased body weight gain initially, with tert-butyl nitrite showing persistent effects.
- Spleen weights increased with all isomers; lung weights increased with three isomers.
- Kidney and liver weights showed varied responses, with tert-butyl nitrite decreasing both, and iso-butyl nitrite increasing liver weight.
Conclusions:
- Butyl nitrite exposure induces distinct organ-specific toxicities in mice.
- The observed toxicological effects are consistent with methemoglobinemia as a primary mechanism of toxicity.