Short-term toxicity study of allyl isothiocyanate in rats

Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) was given in doses of 0, 10, 20, or 40 mg/kg (5 days/week) by oral intubation to male rats for up to 6 weeks. The highest dosage level caused a decrease in body weight, thymus weight, blood glucose and serum globulin levels. Haematological examination revealed an increased percentage of neutrophils and a decreased percentage of lymphocytes after treatment for 2 weeks. Increased liver and adrenal weights were found in all test groups. Renal dysfunction was indicated by increased urinary aspartate amino-transferase activity, reduced urine volume and changes in the specific gravity of the urine. Histopathological changes were observed in the kidneys of animals at dosages of 20 and 40 mg/kg and in the livers of animals at the highest dosage level.