ABSTRACT
A significant increase in plasma corticosterone levels and depletion of ascorbic acid content in adrenal glands occurred in rats between 1 and 5 h after a single dose (50% LD50) of fenitrothion, returning to normal levels within 12 h; brain AChE activity decreased to about 59-43% and significant inhibition of the enzyme was observed for up to 24 h after intoxication. Repeated dosing with fenitrothion (2.5% LD50) for 14 days caused insignificant elevation of plasma corticosterone levels, while brain AChE activity was inhibited to about 19% of control values and uptake of 4-14C-corticosterone in tissues was significantly diminished.
Subject(s)
Adrenal Cortex/drug effects , Corticosterone/metabolism , Fenitrothion/poisoning , Adrenal Cortex/metabolism , Animals , Ascorbic Acid/metabolism , Male , Rats , Rats, Inbred Strains , Tissue Distribution/drug effectsABSTRACT
The effects of methylbromphenvinfos (MBFV) and fenitrothion on androgen levels, excretion and peripheral metabolism were studied in male rats. The insecticides were administered orally in high, single doses. Plasma testosterone levels and urinary excretion of 11-deoxy-17-ketosteroids had increased 24 and 48 h after MBVF administration. During the same time period, fenitrothion reduced plasma and urine androgens, but after 72 h significant increases in steroid levels and excretion were apparent. Investigation of the peripheral metabolism of 3H-testosterone indicated that fenitrothion markedly diminished the urinary excretion of 3H-androstenedione during the first 48 h and then increased its level after 72 h. Simultaneously, 3H-testosterone elimination was increased during the first 24-48 h and then decreased after 72 h. These data suggest that MBFV and fenithrothion in high doses can produce significant alteration in physiological hormonal balance of the male reproductive system.
