Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026

Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model
Published on: September 7, 2013
Dermal carcinogenicity study by mouse-skin painting with 2,4-toluendediamine alone or in representative hair dye
Abstract:
The chronic toxicity of 2,4-toluenediamine (2,4-TDA) alone or in conbination with a hair dye complex (2,5-toluenediamine, p-phenylenediamine, and resorcinol) was studied in Swiss-Webster mice of both sexes by a skin-painting technique. The predominant neoplasms seen in these mice were primary pulmonary adenomas and adenocarcinomas. Skin neoplasms were seen in most groups of mice, including untreated control mice. Statistical analysis of the incidences of skin neoplasms among the various groups of mice did not show any significant differences. The 2,4-TDA alone or mixed with the hair dye complex did not produce any abnormal proliferation and maturation of the squamous epithelium of the skin. The 2,4-TDA under our experimental conditions was found to be nontoxic and noncarcinogenic to the skin of mice.
Insights
This study investigated the chronic toxicity of 2,4-toluenediamine (2,4-TDA) and hair dye components in mice. Results indicate that 2,4-TDA is neither toxic nor carcinogenic to mouse skin under the tested conditions.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Dermatology
- Oncology
Background:
- Hair dyes contain various chemicals, including toluenediamines, which require toxicological assessment.
- Chronic exposure to chemicals can lead to adverse health effects, necessitating long-term studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the chronic toxicity and carcinogenicity of 2,4-toluenediamine (2,4-TDA) alone and in combination with common hair dye ingredients.
- To assess the potential for 2,4-TDA to induce skin neoplasms or affect skin epithelium.
Main Methods:
- Swiss-Webster mice of both sexes were subjected to chronic skin-painting with 2,4-TDA or a hair dye complex.
- Neoplasms and skin epithelium changes were monitored and statistically analyzed.
Main Results:
- The predominant neoplasms observed were pulmonary adenomas and adenocarcinomas, not directly linked to skin application.
- No significant differences in skin neoplasm incidence were found between treated and control groups.
- 2,4-TDA did not induce abnormal proliferation or maturation of the skin's squamous epithelium.
Conclusions:
- Under the experimental conditions, 2,4-TDA demonstrated no significant toxicity or carcinogenic potential on mouse skin.
- The study suggests that 2,4-TDA is safe for topical application concerning skin toxicity and carcinogenicity.

![Chemical-Induced Skin Carcinogenesis Model Using Dimethylbenz[a]Anthracene and 12-O-Tetradecanoyl Phorbol-13-Acetate (DMBA-TPA)](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcloudfront.jove.com%2FCDNSource%2Fteasers%2F60445.jpg&w=3840&q=50)