Effects of transplacental exposure to chlorinated phenols

Female rats were exposed to 0, 5, 50 or 500 ppm of 2-chlorophenol (2-CP) or pentachlorophenol (PCP). The study was designed to produce progeny which were exposed to the chlorophenolic compounds both prenatally and postnatally. Percent conception, litter size, birth weight, and number of stillbirths was determined at parturition. Hematologic parameters and body weights of the progeny were recorded at weaning age (3 weeks). Effects on reproduction were observed in both the 2-CP and PCP-exposed groups, as indicated by decreased litter sizes and increased number of stillborn. The data indicate that these chlorinated phenolic compounds may be feto- or embryotoxic at high doses. Effects on hematologic parameters were not observed. Further study involving transplacental and chronic exposures to these chlorophenolic compounds appears warranted.