Tissue distribution of PCB components in swine and sheep fed three different rations containing Aroclors 1242 and...

Growing swine and sheep were fed three dietary variations containing 20 ppm of Aroclors 1242 or 1254 for 13 to 15 weeks. Generally, Aroclor 1254 residues were higher; higher 1242 residues in swine blood, spleen, and ovary are attributed to persistent major components of this Aroclors. Some minor differences in total PCB were observed with varying diets, but peak composition did not vary. Some lower chlorinated components maintained higher levels in the blood relative to other components; other components were selectively accumulated in tissues such as fat and muscle. Blood and fat residues in sheep declined during the last weeks of feeding. Microsomal oxidase levels were elevated in response to PCB and diet in both species, but the response was greater in sheep. Sheep liver microsomes were capable of metabolizing pure analogs and components of Aroclor 1242. Major differences in Aroclor profiles can be demonstrated between swine and sheep residues and total residues can be estimated by measuring selected peaks in blood and backfat. The peaks which provide the most reliable estimate of total PCB residue vary with species and Aroclor.