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Toxicological effects of ziram, thiram, and dithane M-45 assessed by sperm shape abnormalities in mice
1Department of Zoology, S. P. W. College, Tirupati, India.
Abstract:
The three commonly used dithiocarbamate fungicides ziram, thiram, and dithane M-45 were investigated for their mutagenic and carcinogenic potency using sperm shape abnormalities in mice. The fungicides were administered intraperitoneally in single and cumulative doses. All three of the fungicides tested were found to induce significant increase in the frequency of abnormal sperm at all the doses, and a linear dose effect was observed.
Insights
Three dithiocarbamate fungicides, ziram, thiram, and dithane M-45, significantly increased abnormal sperm in mice. A linear dose-response relationship was observed, indicating mutagenic and carcinogenic potential.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Environmental Health
- Reproductive Toxicology
Background:
- Dithiocarbamate fungicides like ziram, thiram, and dithane M-45 are widely used in agriculture.
- Concerns exist regarding their potential mutagenic and carcinogenic effects on non-target organisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mutagenic and carcinogenic potency of ziram, thiram, and dithane M-45.
- To assess the impact of these fungicides on sperm morphology in a mammalian model.
Main Methods:
- Mice were administered single and cumulative intraperitoneal doses of ziram, thiram, and dithane M-45.
- Sperm shape abnormalities were analyzed to evaluate mutagenic effects.
Main Results:
- All three tested dithiocarbamate fungicides induced a significant increase in the frequency of abnormal sperm.
- A clear linear dose-effect relationship was observed for all fungicides tested.
Conclusions:
- Ziram, thiram, and dithane M-45 exhibit mutagenic and carcinogenic potential.
- Sperm shape abnormality is a sensitive indicator for assessing the toxicity of these fungicides.
