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Abstract:
Cytochalasin D, a mold metabolite identified in food, was injected intraperitoneally in doses of 0.4 to 0.9 mg per kilogram on gestational days 7 through 11 and produced evidence of teratogenicity in two out of three strains of mice. Exencephaly, hypognathia and axial skeletal defects were found in strains C57BL/6J and BALB/c while no increase in defects was observed in the Swiss Webster strain. In all three strains, a significantly increased resorption rate was found. Oral doses of approximately 7.0 mg per kg on days 7 through 11 in the BALB/c produced exencephaly in the offspring. Autoclaved cytochalasin D retained its teratogenic potential.
Insights
Cytochalasin D, a mold metabolite, caused birth defects in mice, including exencephaly and skeletal abnormalities. This teratogenic compound also increased embryo resorption rates across all tested mouse strains.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Developmental Biology
- Teratology
Background:
- Cytochalasin D is a mycotoxin found in food.
- Its effects on embryonic development require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the teratogenic potential of Cytochalasin D in mice.
- To identify specific birth defects and sensitive developmental periods.
Main Methods:
- Administration of Cytochalasin D via intraperitoneal injection and oral gavage to pregnant mice on gestational days 7-11.
- Assessment of fetal development, including external and skeletal examinations.
- Evaluation of embryo resorption rates.
Main Results:
- Intraperitoneal Cytochalasin D (0.4-0.9 mg/kg) induced teratogenicity in C57BL/6J and BALB/c mice, causing exencephaly, hypognathia, and axial skeletal defects.
- No defects were observed in the Swiss Webster strain, but all strains showed increased resorption rates.
- Oral administration (approx. 7.0 mg/kg) in BALB/c mice also resulted in exencephaly.
- Autoclaved Cytochalasin D retained its teratogenic properties.
Conclusions:
- Cytochalasin D is a potent teratogen in susceptible mouse strains, affecting multiple developmental processes.
- Embryo resorption is a common outcome of Cytochalasin D exposure, regardless of genetic background.
- The teratogenic potential of Cytochalasin D is heat-stable.