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Han/Wistar rats are exceptionally resistant to TCDD. I
Pharmacology & Toxicology
|February 1, 1987
Summary
The lethal dose for 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) in male rats exceeds 1400 micrograms/kg. TCDD exposure significantly reduces body weight, primarily due to appetite suppression.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is a potent environmental toxicant.
- Understanding TCDD's effects on adult male rats is crucial for risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the LD50 of TCDD in adult male Han/Wistar rats.
- To investigate the physiological effects of TCDD exposure, including body weight changes and organ weights.
Main Methods:
- Adult male Han/Wistar rats were administered varying doses of TCDD (125-1400 µg/kg).
- Animals were monitored for 39-48 days, with measurements of body weight, feed consumption, and water intake.
- Absolute and relative organ weights (thymus, testicles, ventral prostate, brown fat) were assessed post-experiment.
Main Results:
- The LD50 for TCDD was determined to be substantially above 1400 µg/kg.
- TCDD exposure led to significant reductions in body weight (20-30%), feed consumption, and water intake.
- Significant decreases in the weights of thymus, testicles, ventral prostate, and interscapular brown fat were observed.
Conclusions:
- Appetite suppression is the primary mechanism behind TCDD-induced body weight reduction.
- TCDD exposure has significant toxicological effects on male reproductive organs and immune function in rats.