Toxicology Studies on Lewisite and Sulfur Mustard Agents: Two-Generation Reproduction Study of Lewisite in Rats
Abstract
Occupational health standards have not been established for Lewisite (bis(2-chlorethyl)-arsine), a potent toxic vesicant which reacts with the sulfhydryl groups of proteins through its arsenic group. The purposes of this study were to determine the reproductive consequences and dose-response of continuing Lewisite exposure of parental males and females and their offspring in a 42-week two-generation study. Solutions of Lewisite were prepared for administration by diluting the neat agent with sesame oil. Rats were administered Lewisite (0, 0.10, 0.25 or 0.60 mg/kg/day for 5 days a week) via intragastric intubation prior to mating, during mating and after mating until the birth of their offspring. The dams continued to receive Lewisite during lactation. At weaning, male and female offspring of each group were selected to continue on the study; receiving Lewisite during adolescence, mating and throughout gestation. Again, the dams continued to receive Lewisite until weaning of the offspring. Lewisite had no adverse effect on reproduction performance, fertility or reproductive organ weights of male or female rats through two consecutive generations. No adverse effect to offspring were attributed to Lewisite exposure. Minor changes in growth was the only maternal effect observed. Severe inflammation of the lung was observed at necropsy in cases in which Lewisite gained access to the respiratory system. (aw)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 15, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA214311
Entities
People
- D. R. Kalkwarf
- J. A. Cushing
- L. B. Sasser
- P. W. Mellick
- R. L. Buschbom