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Systemic effects of topical application of T-2 toxin in mice
Abstract:
Topical application of T-2 toxin in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) resulted in the death of 20/20 mice in the 20-, 30-, and 40-mg/kg body weight (BW) dose groups within 4 to 6 days after application, whereas 17/20 and 5/20 animals died in the 10- and 5 mg/kg BW groups, respectively, within 7 days. Histological examination of thymus, spleen, and duodenum at 6, 12, 18, and 24 hr after topical application of 5 or 40 mg/kg BW to mice revealed that the characteristic radiomimetic effects of this trichothecene mycotoxin are easily recognizable at 6 hr after topical application, with the severity of damage being dependent on the organ and time. The lesions are quantitatively and qualitatively identical with those seen after intragastrical application of T-2 toxin. Both the postmortem and, to some extent, the general histological findings were not specific enough to arrive at an etiological diagnosis without prior knowledge of the fact that a mycotoxin was applied to the skin, unless one had the opportunity to look for the characteristic intestinal lesions prior to 24 hr after application, or for necrosis in spleen an thymus after 24 hr.
Insights
Topical T-2 toxin exposure caused significant mouse mortality, with dose-dependent lethality. Histological analysis revealed characteristic radiomimetic effects in organs like the thymus and spleen within hours of exposure.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Mycotoxicology
- Dermatology
Background:
- T-2 toxin is a potent trichothecene mycotoxin with known toxicity.
- Understanding the effects of topical T-2 toxin exposure is crucial for risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the lethal effects and pathological changes following topical application of T-2 toxin in mice.
- To compare the effects of topical T-2 toxin exposure with oral administration.
Main Methods:
- Mice were administered varying doses of T-2 toxin dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) topically.
- Histological examinations of thymus, spleen, and duodenum were performed at different time points post-application.
Main Results:
- Topical T-2 toxin caused dose-dependent mortality in mice.
- Characteristic radiomimetic lesions were observed in thymus, spleen, and duodenum as early as 6 hours post-application.
- Lesions were qualitatively and quantitatively similar to those seen after intragastrical T-2 toxin administration.
Conclusions:
- Topical application of T-2 toxin is lethal and induces rapid, characteristic pathological changes in mice.
- Early detection of intestinal lesions or lymphoid necrosis is key for diagnosing T-2 toxin exposure.