Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism and Excretion of 2,3-Dimethyl-2,3-Dinitrobutane
Abstract
The compound 2,3-dimethyl-2,3-dinitrobutane (DMNB) is routinely used to tag explosives to enable detection during covert transport for terrorist purposes. The present study of the absorption, metabolism, distribution and excretion of DMNB in rats was carried out to determine the pharmacokinetics after percutaneous exposure and whether any toxic metabolites were formed. DMNB was absorbed slowly into the body over a 6 hour application period and formed a depot which continued release into the blood for some time after dosing. A proportion of the applied dose was retained within the blood and tissues 168 hours after application, indicating a prolonged residency within the body. The DMNB was excreted in the urine, expired air and faeces. Whole body autoradiography showed that the DMNB distribution to fatty and glandular tissues. There was evidence of metabolism, 5-6 possible metabolites being excreted in the urine, all of which appeared to be volatile, excluding the possibility of conjugation with glucuronic acid, sulphate or glutathione.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 16, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA449694
Entities
People
- Christopher H. Dalton
- Haley Bird
- John Jenner
- Stuart G. Wood
Organizations
- Defence Science and Technology Laboratory