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Induction of chromosomal aberrations in the Syrian hamster by insecticides tested in vivo
Abstract:
The insecticides demeton, dimetoat, dichlorovos, endosulfan, trichlorofon, carbaryl, lindane, methoxychlor, propoxur and malathion were examined for their ability to induce chromosomal aberrations in the bone marrow cells of the Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) treated in vivo. Mutagenicity of commercial preparations was examined at four doses: LD50; 1/2, 1/5 and 1/10 LD50. The positive control was an IP injection of cyclophosphamide to hamsters at a dose of 40 mg/kg body wt. Demeton, dichlorovos and endosulfan gave positive results. Malathion, dimethoate and the mixture of methoxychlor and propoxur were weakly clastogenic; at some doses these compounds induced statistically significant increases in the number of aberrations. Trichlorfon and the mixture of carbaryl and lindane were negative in this test.
Insights
This study investigated the genotoxicity of ten insecticides in Syrian hamsters. Demeton, dichlorovos, and endosulfan were found to be clastogenic, inducing chromosomal aberrations.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Genetics
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Insecticides are widely used in agriculture, raising concerns about their potential genotoxicity.
- Understanding the chromosomal aberration potential of common insecticides is crucial for risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the in vivo clastogenic activity of ten commonly used insecticides.
- To determine the dose-dependent genotoxic effects of these compounds in Syrian hamster bone marrow cells.
Main Methods:
- Syrian hamsters were treated with varying doses (LD50 and fractions thereof) of ten insecticides.
- Bone marrow cells were analyzed for chromosomal aberrations.
- Cyclophosphamide was used as a positive control.
Main Results:
- Demeton, dichlorovos, and endosulfan induced significant chromosomal aberrations.
- Malathion, dimethoate, and a methoxychlor/propoxur mixture showed weak clastogenic effects at certain doses.
- Trichlorfon and a carbaryl/lindane mixture did not induce aberrations.
Conclusions:
- Certain widely used insecticides, including demeton, dichlorovos, and endosulfan, pose a genotoxic risk.
- Further investigation into the long-term effects and environmental impact of these clastogenic insecticides is warranted.
- Risk assessment and regulatory measures should consider the demonstrated clastogenic potential of these compounds.