A sex-balanced rodent model for evaluating phosphine inhalation toxicity
Wing Y Tuet1, Michelle C Racine1, Laura Jennings1
1Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland.
Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
|April 4, 2020
Summary
Phosphine (PH3) fumigant toxicity was studied in female rats, revealing similar lethality and cardiopulmonary effects compared to males. This research clarifies PH3
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Environmental Health
- Occupational Safety
Background:
- Phosphine (PH3) is a widely used grain fumigant with high toxicity.
- PH3 poisoning mechanisms are poorly understood, limiting effective treatments.
- Sex-specific differences in PH3 toxicity are largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the toxic effects of phosphine (PH3) in female rats.
- To compare PH3 toxicity between female and male rats.
- To elucidate the mechanism of PH3 toxicity, focusing on cardiopulmonary and behavioral responses.
Main Methods:
- Female rats were exposed to controlled concentrations of gaseous phosphine (PH3).
- Lethality (LCt50, tTOD), physiological (cardiopulmonary), and behavioral parameters were assessed.
- Results were compared with existing data from male rats.
Main Results:
- No significant sex differences were observed in median lethal concentration-time (LCt50) or time of death (tTOD).
- Cardiopulmonary effects were comparable between sexes, with earlier respiratory and later cardiovascular responses in females.
- Behavioral changes suggested responses to hypoxia and reduced cardiac output.
Conclusions:
- Phosphine (PH3) exhibits similar lethality and acute cardiopulmonary toxicity in male and female rats.
- Temporal differences in physiological responses between sexes were noted.
- Findings suggest PH3 interferes with oxygen transport and circulation, contributing to its toxicity.
