Effect of Unsymmetrical Dimethylhydrazine on Isolated Heart and Lymphatic Vessels

Unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine (UDMH, heptyl) and its derivatives are used in the rocket and space industry as components of rocket fuel. UDMH is a highly toxic compound exhibiting irritant, hepatotoxic, and neurotoxic properties. In this study, the toxic effect of heptyl on isolated rat heart and lymphatic vessels was demonstrated. Acute exposure to UDMH leads to vasoconstriction of the coronary vessels of the isolated heart and pronounced stimulation of isolated lymphangions starting from the concentration of 10^-4 M. The changes are dose-dependent. After exposure to UDMH in high concentrations (10^-2 M), the changes in the functional parameters became irreversible. The obtained results provide evidence for the organ-specific effect of UDMH on visceral muscle organs.