Toxicity studies on trans-1,2-dichloroethylene

Area of Science:

• Toxicology
• Occupational Health
• Environmental Health

Background:

• Trans-1,2-dichloroethylene (t-DCE) is an industrial solvent with known toxicity.
• Occupational exposure limits (TLV/MAC) are established for t-DCE.
• Limited data exists on the long-term effects of t-DCE inhalation at these limits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the toxicological effects of trans-1,2-dichloroethylene (t-DCE) inhalation in adult female rats.
• To determine the histological changes and physiological impacts of t-DCE exposure at various concentrations.
• To assess the potential for central nervous system depression and establish LD50 values.

Main Methods:

• Adult female rats were exposed to t-DCE via inhalation for brief and prolonged periods.
• Histopathological examination of liver, lung, and cardiac tissues was performed.
• Blood parameters including albumin, urea nitrogen, alkaline phosphatase, and erythrocyte count were analyzed.
• LD50 values were determined through intraperitoneal and oral administration in rats and mice.

Main Results:

• Inhalation of 200 ppm t-DCE caused fatty liver degeneration and pulmonary changes.
• Higher concentrations (3000 ppm) led to cardiac muscle alterations.
• 1000 ppm exposure resulted in decreased blood albumin, urea nitrogen, alkaline phosphatase, and erythrocyte count.
• No central nervous system depression was observed at the tested concentrations.
• LD50 values were established for rats and mice via different administration routes.

Conclusions:

• Trans-1,2-dichloroethylene (t-DCE) exhibits moderate toxicity in laboratory animals.
• Current occupational exposure limits may lead to significant histological damage in the liver and lungs.
• t-DCE poses risks to multiple organ systems, necessitating careful management of industrial exposure.