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Effect of toxaphene exposure on immune responses in mice
Abstract:
Toxaphene was fed to female weanling Swiss-Webster mice at dosages of 10, 100, and 200 ppm for 8 wk. Immunologic assays revealed depressed IgG antibody formation in those animals receiving 100 and 200 ppm toxaphene, as compared to controls. Cell-mediated immune responses were not affected in the toxaphene-exposed mice. In another experiment, mature female mice fed the same amounts of toxaphene were mated 3 wk after feeding began and were maintained on the diets until 3 wk after parturition, at which time the pups were weaned onto the control ration. Assays performed on the offspring 8 wk after their birth revealed suppressed antibody formation in the 100-ppm-toxaphene group and enhanced antibody formation in the 200-ppm group. The cell-mediated immune response was suppressed in the offspring from the 100-ppm group, while no change from the controls occurred in the other groups. Phagocytic ability of macrophages was significantly reduced in all toxaphene-treated groups, but to a greater extent in the offspring of the mice that consumed 100 ppm toxaphene.
Insights
Toxaphene exposure in mice suppressed immune responses, including antibody formation and macrophage function. Offspring of exposed mothers also showed altered immune capabilities, indicating potential transgenerational effects of this pesticide.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Immunology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Toxaphene is a persistent organochlorine pesticide with known toxic effects.
- Understanding its impact on the immune system is crucial for public health.
- Previous studies suggest potential immunomodulatory effects of pesticides.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of toxaphene exposure on the immune system of Swiss-Webster mice.
- To assess both humoral and cell-mediated immune responses.
- To evaluate potential transgenerational effects on offspring immunity.
Main Methods:
- Female mice were fed diets containing 10, 100, or 200 ppm toxaphene for 8 weeks.
- Immunologic assays were used to measure IgG antibody formation and cell-mediated immunity.
- In a separate experiment, mature mice were exposed during gestation and lactation, and offspring were assessed.
Main Results:
- Toxaphene significantly depressed IgG antibody formation in adult mice at 100 and 200 ppm.
- Cell-mediated immunity was unaffected in adult mice.
- Offspring showed suppressed antibody formation (100 ppm) and enhanced antibody formation (200 ppm).
- Offspring from the 100 ppm group exhibited suppressed cell-mediated immunity.
- Macrophage phagocytic ability was reduced in all exposed groups, particularly in offspring from the 100 ppm group.
Conclusions:
- Toxaphene exposure impairs humoral immunity and macrophage function in mice.
- Transgenerational effects on immune responses, including suppression and enhancement, were observed in offspring.
- These findings highlight the immunotoxic potential of toxaphene and its possible long-term consequences.