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Teratogenicity of secalonic acid D in mice
Abstract:
Teratogenicity and fetotoxicity of secalonic acid D, a toxic fungal metabolite produced by Penicillium oxalicum, were investigated with pregnant CD1 mice. The compound was administered ip on d 7-15 of pregnancy. A dose-dependent reduction in weight gain of mothers receiving all doses of secalonic acid D and an increase in resorptions of implanted embryos of dams treated with more than 5 mg/kg secalonic acid D occurred. The latter effect was nearly 100% at 15 or 9 mg/kg given in NaHCO3 with or without dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), respectively. A corresponding decrease in the percent of live fetuses and a decrease in the average fetal body weight on d 19 of pregnancy also occurred. Multiple gross, skeletal, and visceral anomalies were noted in fetuses born to mothers receiving 10 mg/kg or more in NaHCO3 containing DMSO. In NaHCO3 alone, the minimum teratogenic dose was 6 mg/kg. Major malformations included cleft palate, cleft lip, open eyelids, missing phalangeal ossification centers, and shortened mandibles. The results indicated that secalonic acid D is embryocidal and teratogenic as well as fetotoxic when given to female CD1 mice during pregnancy.
Insights
Secalonic acid D, a fungal toxin, causes birth defects and fetal harm in mice. This study confirms its teratogenic and fetotoxic effects during pregnancy.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Developmental Biology
- Mycotoxicology
Background:
- Secalonic acid D is a toxic metabolite from Penicillium oxalicum.
- Fungal toxins can pose risks to pregnancy outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the teratogenic and fetotoxic potential of secalonic acid D.
- To determine the dose-dependent effects of secalonic acid D on pregnant mice.
Main Methods:
- Pregnant CD1 mice were administered secalonic acid D intraperitoneally from day 7 to 15 of gestation.
- Dose-response effects on maternal weight, embryo resorption, fetal weight, and fetal malformations were assessed.
Main Results:
- Dose-dependent reduction in maternal weight gain and increased embryo resorption were observed.
- Significant decrease in live fetuses and fetal body weight occurred.
- Teratogenic effects, including cleft palate and lip, were noted at doses as low as 6 mg/kg.
Conclusions:
- Secalonic acid D exhibits significant embryocidal, teratogenic, and fetotoxic effects in mice.
- The study highlights the developmental toxicity risks associated with this mycotoxin during pregnancy.