Registration Dossier
Registration Dossier
Data platform availability banner - registered substances factsheets
Please be aware that this old REACH registration data factsheet is no longer maintained; it remains frozen as of 19th May 2023.
The new ECHA CHEM database has been released by ECHA, and it now contains all REACH registration data. There are more details on the transition of ECHA's published data to ECHA CHEM here.
Diss Factsheets
Use of this information is subject to copyright laws and may require the permission of the owner of the information, as described in the ECHA Legal Notice.
EC number: 268-069-1 | CAS number: 68002-54-0
- Life Cycle description
- Uses advised against
- Endpoint summary
- Appearance / physical state / colour
- Melting point / freezing point
- Boiling point
- Density
- Particle size distribution (Granulometry)
- Vapour pressure
- Partition coefficient
- Water solubility
- Solubility in organic solvents / fat solubility
- Surface tension
- Flash point
- Auto flammability
- Flammability
- Explosiveness
- Oxidising properties
- Oxidation reduction potential
- Stability in organic solvents and identity of relevant degradation products
- Storage stability and reactivity towards container material
- Stability: thermal, sunlight, metals
- pH
- Dissociation constant
- Viscosity
- Additional physico-chemical information
- Additional physico-chemical properties of nanomaterials
- Nanomaterial agglomeration / aggregation
- Nanomaterial crystalline phase
- Nanomaterial crystallite and grain size
- Nanomaterial aspect ratio / shape
- Nanomaterial specific surface area
- Nanomaterial Zeta potential
- Nanomaterial surface chemistry
- Nanomaterial dustiness
- Nanomaterial porosity
- Nanomaterial pour density
- Nanomaterial photocatalytic activity
- Nanomaterial radical formation potential
- Nanomaterial catalytic activity
- Endpoint summary
- Stability
- Biodegradation
- Bioaccumulation
- Transport and distribution
- Environmental data
- Additional information on environmental fate and behaviour
- Ecotoxicological Summary
- Aquatic toxicity
- Endpoint summary
- Short-term toxicity to fish
- Long-term toxicity to fish
- Short-term toxicity to aquatic invertebrates
- Long-term toxicity to aquatic invertebrates
- Toxicity to aquatic algae and cyanobacteria
- Toxicity to aquatic plants other than algae
- Toxicity to microorganisms
- Endocrine disrupter testing in aquatic vertebrates – in vivo
- Toxicity to other aquatic organisms
- Sediment toxicity
- Terrestrial toxicity
- Biological effects monitoring
- Biotransformation and kinetics
- Additional ecotoxological information
- Toxicological Summary
- Toxicokinetics, metabolism and distribution
- Acute Toxicity
- Irritation / corrosion
- Sensitisation
- Repeated dose toxicity
- Genetic toxicity
- Carcinogenicity
- Toxicity to reproduction
- Specific investigations
- Exposure related observations in humans
- Toxic effects on livestock and pets
- Additional toxicological data
Endpoint summary
Administrative data
Key value for chemical safety assessment
Effects on fertility
Link to relevant study records
- Endpoint:
- screening for reproductive / developmental toxicity
- Remarks:
- based on test type (migrated information)
- Type of information:
- experimental study
- Adequacy of study:
- key study
- Study period:
- 2 August 2012 to 12 November 2012
- Reliability:
- 1 (reliable without restriction)
- Rationale for reliability incl. deficiencies:
- other: Study conducted to GLP in compliance with agreed protocols, with no or minor deviations from standard test guidelines and/or minor methodological deficiencies, which do not affect the quality of the relevant results.
- Qualifier:
- according to guideline
- Guideline:
- OECD Guideline 422 (Combined Repeated Dose Toxicity Study with the Reproduction / Developmental Toxicity Screening Test)
- Deviations:
- no
- GLP compliance:
- yes
- Limit test:
- no
- Species:
- rat
- Strain:
- Wistar
- Sex:
- male/female
- Details on test animals or test system and environmental conditions:
- TEST ANIMALS
- Strain: Crl:WI(Han)
- Age at study initiation: On the first day of dosing, animals were 71 to 78 days of age.
- Weight at study initiation: On the first day of dosing, the males weighed 283 g to 333 g and the females weighed 184 g to 219 g.
- Housing: The animals were housed in groups of 5 by sex until pairing and for males post-pairing. For pairing, one male and one female were housed together and mated females were housed individually during gestation and with their litter during the lactation period. Males were housed in grid-floor cages suspended over paper-lined trays. During the pre-pairing and mating periods females were housed in grid-floor cages suspended over paper-lined trays and following mating females and their litter were housed in solid-floor cages with appropriate bedding provided.
- Diet (e.g. ad libitum): A pelleted rodent diet was supplied ad libitum.
- Water (e.g. ad libitum): Mains tap water (in bottles) was freely available.
- Acclimation period: The animals were acclimatised within the study room for 14 days before the start of treatment
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
- Temperature (°C): 20 to 23 °C (target range 21 ± 2 °C).
- Humidity (%): 46 to 79 % (target range 55 ± 15 %).
- Air changes (per hr): Not reported - the room was air-conditioned.
- Photoperiod (hrs dark / hrs light): The study room was illuminated by fluorescent light set to give a cycle of 12 hours light and 12 hours dark.
IN-LIFE DATES: From: 2 August 2012 To: 12 November 2012 - Route of administration:
- oral: gavage
- Vehicle:
- other: Elga UHP water
- Details on exposure:
- PREPARATION OF DOSING SOLUTIONS
The required amount of test material was weighed and approximately 80 % of the vehicle was added. The mixture was stirred and heated to approximately 50 ± 5 °C, as required, until a visibly homogenous liquid was formed. The formulation was allowed to cool to ambient temperature, followed by further addition with the vehicle to the exact volume. Due to the lack of any stability information, the formulations were prepared daily and used within 3 hours of preparation.
VEHICLE
- Dose volume: 10 mL/kg - Details on mating procedure:
- - M/F ratio per cage: After the pre-pairing dosing period, each female was paired with a treated male from the same group.
- Length of cohabitation: 14 days.
- Proof of pregnancy: During the pairing period, vaginal smears were taken daily, by lavage, until mating was confirmed either by sperm being found in the smear or by the number and nature of copulation plugs. The smear was examined under light microscopy and the stage of the oestrous cycle was determined by the type of cell present. The number of copulation plugs was also recorded to give an assessment of the mating activity of the animals. The day on which sperm were detected was referred to as Day 0 of gestation with the next day classified as Day 1 of gestation.
- After successful mating each pregnant female was caged (how): Mated females were housed individually during gestation and with their litter during the lactation period. - Analytical verification of doses or concentrations:
- yes
- Details on analytical verification of doses or concentrations:
- FORMULATION SAMPLING
Samples were taken from each formulation. The formulations (including controls) prepared for use on the first day of dosing and subsequent formulations prepared for use during Week 6 were analysed to assess achieved concentrations. All remaining samples were stored frozen (approximately -18 °C).
ANALYSES OF TEST MATERIAL FORMULATIONS
Samples from each designated formulation, including the vehicle used to dose the control group, were analysed for the test material. During Week 6, individual achieved concentrations from the formulations prepared for use on Day 40 of the study (Groups 2 to 4) ranged from 113 to 126 % of the nominal. Since the majority of individual concentrations were above the acceptance criterion and contingency samples could not be analysed due to a lack of the frozen stability data, analysis of test material formulations prepared for use on Day 41 of the study (Groups 2 to 4 only) was performed.
METHOD OF ANALYSIS
The analytical procedure for the determination of the test material in water was conducted using UV/visible spectrophotometry using the test material, water and HPLC grade methanol.
- Instrument: Unicam UV/visible spectrophotometer
PROCEDURE
Linearity of Detection
The linearity of detection was assessed from triplicate measurements of six standards prepared at concentrations over the calibration range of the assay. The standard concentration and response data were subjected to linear regression analysis and the assay considered linear if the correlation coefficient (r) was no less than 0.99.
The linear correlation coefficient over the calibration range 20.32 to 81.80 µg/mL of the test material was 0.9968.
Precision of Detection
The precision of detection was assessed over the linear range from the coefficient of variation of the response factors (response/concentration) of all standards analysed in triplicate.
The precision of detection at the mid-point of the linear range was assessed from the coefficient of variation of the responses of a mid-point standard analysed six times consecutively. The precision of detection was considered acceptable if the coefficients of variation were no greater than 7.5 % for each assessment.
The precision of detection over the linear range was 3.4 %. The precision of detection at the mid-point of the linear range was 0 %.
System Stability
The stability of the system was assessed from the coefficient of variation of the responses of a mid-point standard, analysed six times interspersed throughout the run, and was considered acceptable if no greater than 7.5 %.
The stability of the system was 0.1 %.
Specificity
The specificity of the assay was assessed from the analysis of control samples and reagent blanks and was considered acceptable if the absorbance was no greater than 5 % of that of the lowest concentration standard.
No response that was attributed to the test material was observed in the control samples or reagent blanks.
Intra-Assay Accuracy and Precision
The intra-assay accuracy at each concentration, expressed as the mean accuracy values (n=3) was assessed from the analysis of triplicate samples of the test material in water, at concentrations of 10 mg/mL and 200 mg/mL. The assay was considered accurate if the individual and the mean measured concentrations of the test material were between 85 and 115 % of their nominal values. The intra-assay precision, expressed as the coefficient of variation of the individual accuracy values at each concentration, was considered acceptable if no greater than 10 %.
The individual accuracy values at 10 mg/mL were between 85 and 89 % with a mean value of 87 % and a precision value of 2.5 %. The individual accuracy values at 200 mg/mL were between 85 and 87 % with a mean value of 86 % and a precision value of 1.1 %.
Inter-Assay Accuracy and Precision
Assay accuracy and precision, were repeated on a separate occasion, using freshly prepared solutions and reagents, to establish the effects of such changes.
The inter-assay accuracy at each concentration, expressed as the mean accuracy values (n=6) obtained over two occasions, was considered acceptable if the individual and the mean measured concentrations of the test material were between 85 and 115 % of their nominal values.
The inter-assay precision at each concentration, expressed as the coefficient of variation of the individual accuracy values (n=6) obtained over two occasions, was considered acceptable if no greater than 15 %.
The individual accuracy values at 10 mg/mL were between 85 and 95 % with a mean value of 90 % and a precision value of 4.3 %. The individual accuracy values at 200 mg/mL were between 85 and 89 % with a mean value of 88 % and a precision value of 2.0 %.
RESULTS OF FORMULATION ANALYSIS
Formulations used to dose animals during Week 1 of the study were considered accurate since the measured concentrations were within 15 % of their nominal values which fulfilled the acceptance criterion.
The majority of samples from test formulations used to dose animals in Groups 2, 3 and 4 on Day 40 of the study (Week 6) showed higher levels of the test material than the target values (by up to 26 %), which was outside the specified acceptance criterion. Test material formulations used to dose animals in Groups 2, 3 and 4 on Day 41 of dosing were also higher than their nominal values (by up to 30 %), which was again outside the specified acceptance criterion. Although no reason could be established for these higher values, considering these animals were dosed at higher dose levels than their target, this was considered to have no impact on the validity of the No Observed Adverse Effect Levels (NOAELs) determined in this study.
No test material was detected in vehicle used to dose animals in Group 1. - Duration of treatment / exposure:
- The males were dosed for 14 days prior to, and during pairing, and until the day prior to necropsy. The females were dosed once daily for 14 days prior to, and during pairing, gestation and until Day 3 of lactation, inclusive.
Any female in mid-parturition at the time of dosing was not dosed on that day. - Frequency of treatment:
- Once daily
- Remarks:
- Doses / Concentrations:
0, 100, 300 and 1000 mg/kg
Basis:
actual ingested - No. of animals per sex per dose:
- 10 animals per sex per dose
- Control animals:
- yes, concurrent vehicle
- Details on study design:
- - Dose selection rationale: The dose levels were selected on the basis of results from a preliminary study. A high dose level of 1000 mg/kg/day was chosen, as this is the maximum dose level required by the guidelines. At this dose level in the preliminary study, clinical signs remained confined to excessive pre and/or post-dose salivation.
- Parental animals: Observations and examinations:
- CAGE SIDE OBSERVATIONS: Yes
- Time schedule: Animals were examined twice daily for mortality and morbidity. From the start of treatment, all animals were examined daily for clinical signs of toxicity or changes in behaviour and appearance.
During the treatment period, each main study animal was routinely checked pre-dose and soon after completion of dosing. On week days, additional observations were made approximately 1 hour after dosing and either approximately 4 hours after dosing or at the end of the working day (whichever was sooner). At weekends and public holidays, additional observations were made approximately 1 hour after dosing or at the end of the working day (whichever was sooner).
DETAILED CLINICAL OBSERVATIONS: Yes
- Time schedule: Each animal was given a detailed clinical examination once each week, from the start of treatment. Standard arena observations (functional observations) were made cage side and outside the home cage, in a standard arena, for all animals. Observations were recorded once prior to the start of dosing and once weekly thereafter during the dosing period, at approximately the same time of day on each occasion (afternoon). On Day 40 of the study, these observations were not recorded for any females in mid-parturition or on Day 0 of lactation; they were instead recorded on Day 42 of the study for those females.
BODY WEIGHT: Yes
- Time schedule for examinations: Male body weights were recorded at the start of treatment and then weekly thereafter up to and including the day of necropsy. Female body weights were recorded at the start of treatment and then at weekly intervals until the day of mating. Body weights for females were also recorded on Days 0, 7, 14 and 20 of gestation and then on Days 0 (where required for dose volume calculation), 1 and 4 of lactation.
FOOD CONSUMPTION: Yes
- Time schedule: The amount of food consumed by the animals in each cage was recorded at weekly intervals for males and females during their pre-pairing dosing period. Food consumption of the females was also recorded over Days 0 to 4, 4 to 7, 7 to 10, 10 to 14, 14 to 17 and 17 to 20 of gestation and over Days 1 to 4 of lactation. Two weeks after the start of the pairing period, food consumption for males was recorded weekly up to and including the day prior to necropsy.
FOOD EFFICIENCY: No
WATER CONSUMPTION: No
OPHTHALMOSCOPIC EXAMINATION: No
URINALYSIS: No
OTHER: Neurobehavioural examinations, haematology and coagulation parameters and clinical chemistry parameters were evaluated. - Oestrous cyclicity (parental animals):
- During the pairing period, vaginal smears were taken daily, by lavage, until mating was confirmed either by sperm being found in the smear or by the number and nature of copulation plugs. The smear was examined under light microscopy and the stage of the oestrous cycle was determined by the type of cell present.
- Sperm parameters (parental animals):
- Parameters examined in [P] male parental generations: testis weight and epididymis weight.
- Litter observations:
- F1 GENERATION
- Litter size and sex: The total litter size was recorded after completion of parturition and daily thereafter. Numbers of each sex were recorded on the same day as body weights were collected. The percentage of male pups, out of the total number of pups, was calculated for each litter. Day 0 of lactation was the day of completion of littering. The following day was considered to be Day 1 of lactation.
- Clinical observations: All pups were examined daily for clinical signs of toxicity or changes in behaviour and appearance.
- Mortality: Animals were examined twice daily for mortality and morbidity.
- Bodyweights: Pups were weighed individually on Days 1 and 4 of age. - Postmortem examinations (parental animals):
- GROSS PATHOLOGY
At the end of the treatment period, all animals were killed by exposure to carbon dioxide gas in a rising concentration. Females were killed on Day 4 of lactation. Males were killed after the females had been subjected to necropsy. All animals were weighed and examined externally. The abdominal cavity was opened and the animals exsanguinated from the caudal vena cava. The cranial and thoracic cavities were opened and a full internal examination was performed. Any macroscopic abnormalities were recorded and retained. The number of implantation scars and the number of corpora lutea for each female was recorded.
HISTOPATHOLOGY
The following tissues were removed and fixed as appropriate from all animals: epididymides, animal identification, ovaries, prostate and seminal vesicles (incl. coagulating gland), testes, uterus (incl. uterine cervix and oviducts), vagina and all gross lesions.
The following tissues were removed and fixed as appropriate from an additional 5 male and 5 female animals in each group: adrenal glands, bone marrow smear, brain (3 levels examined), caecum, colon, duodenum, femur and joint (incl. marrow), heart, ileum (incl. Peyer’s patch), jejunum, kidneys, liver, lungs (incl. mainstem bronchi), mesenteric lymph node, sciatic nerve, spinal cord (3 levels examined), spleen, stomach, submandibular lymph nodes, thymus, thyroids (incl. parathyroids), trachea and urinary bladder. - Postmortem examinations (offspring):
- SACRIFICE
On Day 4 of age, pups were killed by an intraperitoneal injection of sodium pentobarbitone solution and subjected to necropsy procedures.
GROSS NECROPSY
A careful external examination was conducted; the thoracic and abdominal cavities were opened by a ventral mid line incision and the major organs examined. Any macroscopic abnormalities were recorded and retained. - Statistics:
- Non-parametric methods were employed if it was considered that the assumptions required for parametric analysis did not hold.
No analyses were performed for variables for which there were less than five independent observations in the control group; when treated groups had fewer than five observations analyses were performed at the discretion of the statistician.
Data from each sex was analysed separately. Statistical significance was declared at the p<0.05 level in all cases and noted at the p<0.01 and p<0.001 levels.
COMPARISONS
Group 1 (control) against Groups 2, 3 and 4 (100, 300 and 1000 mg/kg, respectively)
STATISTICAL TESTS AND PARAMETERS
Data were processed to give group mean values and standard deviations where appropriate. Where the data allowed, the following methods were used for statistical analysis:
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE AND WILLIAMS' TEST
(Non-parametric alternative: Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA and Shirley's Test)
Bodyweights and bodyweight gains, food consumption, number of implantation scars and number of corpora lutea, number of pups born, pup body weights and body weight gains (by sex and on litter basis), percentage of male pups, time course of mating, number of copulation plugs, duration of gestation, organ weights (absolute), relative organ weights (organ weights as a percentage of terminal body weight), clinical pathology data, grip strength and motor activity (timepoints 1 and 1 - 6 (total)).
ANALYSIS OF COVARIANCE
Motor activity (timepoints 2 to 6)
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
(Non-parametric alternative: Kruskal-Wallis Test)
Pre-dose body weights (Day 1)
COCHRAN ARMITAGE TREND TEST
Copulation and fertility indices
JONCKHEERE TERPSTRA TEST
Litter survival indices - Reproductive indices:
- Copulation index (%) = (number of animals mated / number of animals paired) x 100
Female fertility index (%) = (number of pregnant animals / number of animals mated) x 100
Male fertility index (%) = (number of males siring a pregnancy / number of paired males) x 100
Gestation index (%) = (number of pregnant females with live pups born / number of pregnant females) x 100 - Offspring viability indices:
- Live birth index (%) = (number of pups born alive / total number of pups born) x 100
Viability index 1 (%) = (number of pups alive Day 4 of age / number of pups born alive) x 100
Cumulative survival index (%) = (number of pups alive Day 4 of age / total number of pups born) x 100 - Clinical signs:
- no effects observed
- Description (incidence and severity):
- see below
- Body weight and weight changes:
- effects observed, treatment-related
- Description (incidence and severity):
- see below
- Food consumption and compound intake (if feeding study):
- effects observed, treatment-related
- Description (incidence and severity):
- see below
- Organ weight findings including organ / body weight ratios:
- effects observed, treatment-related
- Histopathological findings: non-neoplastic:
- effects observed, treatment-related
- Description (incidence and severity):
- see below
- Other effects:
- not examined
- Reproductive function: oestrous cycle:
- no effects observed
- Reproductive function: sperm measures:
- not examined
- Reproductive performance:
- no effects observed
- Dose descriptor:
- NOAEL
- Effect level:
- 300 mg/kg bw/day (nominal)
- Based on:
- test mat.
- Sex:
- male/female
- Basis for effect level:
- other: see 'Remark'
- Dose descriptor:
- NOAEL
- Effect level:
- 1 000 mg/kg bw/day (nominal)
- Based on:
- test mat.
- Sex:
- male/female
- Basis for effect level:
- other: There was no effect of treatment on male or female fertility, mating behaviour, development of conceptus and parturition.
- Remarks on result:
- other: Generation: Reproductive Parameters (migrated information)
- Clinical signs:
- no effects observed
- Mortality / viability:
- no mortality observed
- Body weight and weight changes:
- no effects observed
- Sexual maturation:
- not examined
- Organ weight findings including organ / body weight ratios:
- not examined
- Gross pathological findings:
- no effects observed
- Histopathological findings:
- not examined
- Reproductive effects observed:
- not specified
- Conclusions:
- Under the conditions of this study, in the Wistar strain rat, the No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) for male and female repeated-dose toxicology was considered to be 300 mg/kg/day. The No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) for male and female reproductive performance was considered to be 1000 mg/kg/day.
- Executive summary:
A combined repeated dose toxicity study with reproduction/developmental toxicity screening test was carried out in order to assess the test material in accordance with the standardised guideline OECD 422 under GLP conditions.
Three groups of 10 male and 10 female rats of the Crl:WI(Han) strain were dosed once daily, by oral gavage, with the test material at dose levels of 100, 300, or 1000 mg/kg/day. Another group of 10 male and 10 female rats were dosed with the vehicle (UHP water) following the same dosing regimen as the treated animals and were used as controls. The males were dosed for 14 days prior to pairing, during pairing and until the day prior to necropsy. The females were dosed for 14 days prior to pairing, during pairing and gestation, and up to and including Day 3 of lactation.
There were no unscheduled deaths on the study and administration of the test material was well tolerated; some parental effects were seen on bodyweights, lymphocyte counts and bone marrow adipocytes however the magnitude of change was small.
There was no effect of treatment on fertility or mating performance. There was no effect of treatment with the test material on the mean duration of gestation. The mean number of pups born per litter, sex ratio and mean live birth, viability and cumulative survival indices in all treated groups were comparable with controls. There were no unscheduled pup deaths on the study.
Group mean pup body weight gains between Days 1 and 4 of age were unaffected by maternal treatment with the test material and there were no necropsy findings for pups considered to be related to maternal treatment with the test material.
Under the conditions of this study, in the Wistar strain rat, the No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) for male and female repeated-dose toxicology was considered to be 300 mg/kg/day. The No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) for male and female reproductive performance was considered to be 1000 mg/kg/day.
Reference
There was no mortality and there were no clinical signs considered to be related to the toxicity of the test material.
BODY WEIGHT AND FOOD CONSUMPTION (PARENTAL ANIMALS)
During the pre-pairing period, group mean bodyweight gains for males given 1000 mg/kg/day were slightly lower than controls, achieving statistical significance during the first week of dosing (p<0.05). For the remainder of the treatment period, group mean bodyweight gains for these males were generally similar to controls. Overall mean bodyweight gain for this group of animals was slightly but statistically significantly lower (p<0.05) in comparison with controls. For males given 100 or 300 mg/kg/day, mean bodyweight gains were generally similar to controls throughout the treatment.
During the first week of the pre-pairing period, females given 1000 mg/kg/day showed a stasis in group mean bodyweight with half of these animals losing body weight; in comparison control animals gained weight during this period and the difference was statistically significant (p<0.001). Thereafter, an improvement was evident such that during the second week of dosing, the mean bodyweight gain for these females was higher than controls, albeit without achieving statistical significance. Group mean bodyweight gains for these females during the gestation and lactation periods remained unaffected. For females receiving 100 or 300 mg/kg/day of the test material, there was no effect of treatment on body weight gain during any stage of the study.
At 1000 mg/kg/day, food consumption for males was generally similar to controls throughout the dosing period. Females given the same dose level showed slightly lower food intake during the pre-pairing period and over Days 0 to 4 of gestation (p<0.05) when compared with controls. Throughout the remainder of the gestation period, the mean food intake values for this group of females were marginally lower than controls, albeit without achieving statistical significance. During lactation, food intake values for these females were similar to controls.
For animals given 100 or 300 mg/kg/day of the test material, food intake values were generally similar to controls throughout the study.
REPRODUCTIVE FUNCTION: ESTROUS CYCLE (PARENTAL ANIMALS)
There was no effect of treatment with the test material on the mean number of days taken to mate. With an exception of one female from the control group and one female from the group receiving 300 mg/kg/day, all other females mated within 4 days of pairing; the two exceptions were in persistent dioestrous prior to mating. The mean number of copulation plugs remained unaffected by treatment with the test material.
REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE (PARENTAL ANIMALS)
There was no effect of treatment on fertility or mating performance.
There was no effect of treatment on the mean duration of gestation.
At 1000 mg/kg/day, group mean value for implantation scars was marginally but statistically significantly lower (p<0.05) than controls but this was considered coincidental; only 2 out of 10 animals had individual values slightly below controls. The mean number of corpora lutea for this group of females was also statistically significantly lower (p<0.05) than controls, however the recording of corpora lutea on Day 4 of lactation is considered inaccurate. Since post-partum oestrous occurs 24 to 48 hours after parturition in rats, during the lactation period there are two sets of corpora lutea; one from pregnancy and the other from the new oestrous. Since corpora lutea are counted under low magnification, it is impossible to distinguish between the two, and counting the corpora lutea may result in inaccurate numbers.
ORGAN WEIGHTS (PARENTAL ANIMALS)
At 1000 mg/kg/day, absolute and bodyweight-related liver weights for animals of both sexes were statistically significantly higher than controls (p<0.001 for males and p<0.01 for females). Individual bodyweight-related liver weights for males were within the background control data ranges whereas for females, including controls, the majority of corresponding individual values were above the background control data ranges. In the absence of any histopathology findings for the liver, the increases in liver weight were considered to be adaptive in nature and not indicative of toxicity.
At 300 or 1000 mg/kg/day, females also showed statistically significantly lower body weight-related heart weights than controls (p<0.05) but without any dose-relationship. The majority of individual values were within the background control data ranges and as there were no corresponding histopathology findings, this finding was considered not to be related to treatment with the test material.
GROSS PATHOLOGY (PARENTAL ANIMALS)
There were no macroscopic findings at necropsy considered to be related to the treatment with the test material.
HISTOPATHOLOGY (PARENTAL ANIMALS)
Findings considered to be related to treatment were recorded in the bone marrow of the males (increase in marrow adipocytes) given the test material at a dose level of 1000 mg/kg/day. There was an equivocal change (erythrocytosis/erythrophagia) in the mesenteric lymph nodes for animals of both sexes receiving 1000 mg/kg/day. No effect was noted for these parameters in the low or intermediate dose groups. In addition, an assessment of the bone marrow smears from control animals and those given 1000 mg/kg/day indicated that there was no effect of treatment on the assessed parameters.
A small erosion was noted in the non-glandular stomach of one male given 1000 mg/kg/day of the test material. Associated with this were epithelial hyperplasia, inflammation and oedema. Small lesions of this nature in the fore stomach are not uncommon with gavage studies and it is not thought to be indicative of a local irritant effect of the formulation nor of any systemic effect. A variety of other spontaneous changes was noted in control and treated animals with no indication of an effect of treatment. The spectrum of these findings is generally consistent with changes encountered in rats of this age kept under laboratory conditions.
OTHER FINDINGS (PARENTAL ANIMALS)
HAEMATOLOGY AND COAGULATION
At all dose levels, males showed a statistically significant, albeit non dose-related, lowering of total leucocyte counts (p<0.05) with respect to controls, due to lower absolute lymphocyte counts. There was no clear dose-relationship and the individual values were within the background control data ranges but, in view of histopathology findings in the bone marrow of males given 1000 mg/kg/day, a relationship with treatment cannot be entirely excluded. Corresponding leucocyte and lymphocyte values in all female groups given the test material were also slightly lower than the respective control group, albeit without achieving statistical significance. In the absence of any associated histopathology findings, this was considered not to be of toxicological significance.
At 1000 mg/kg/day, females showed a marginal but statistically significant lowering in haemoglobin concentration (p<0.05) and slight prolongation of prothrombin time (p<0.001) when compared with controls. Individual haemoglobin concentrations were within the background control data range but respective prothrombin times were above these ranges. In the absence of any associated histopathology changes these findings were considered not to be toxicologically significant.
BLOOD CHEMISTRY
Statistically significantly higher mean plasma concentration of bile acids (p<0.05) was observed in females given 1000 mg/kg/day with respect to controls. However, only one out of 5 males at this dose level had higher bile acid concentration than controls. At 100 or 300 mg/kg/day, a small number of males and females also showed higher concentrations of bile acids than controls. High individual variation seen in these animals may be due to the fact that these animals were not fasted prior to bleeding and the intergroup differences were considered unrelated to treatment.
Statistically significant, higher plasma glucose concentrations (p<0.01) were observed in males given the test material at 300 or 1000 mg/kg/day, albeit without any dose-relationship. These males also showed a statistically significant lowering in plasma levels of sodium (p<0.001) whereas statistically significantly higher levels of cholesterol (p>0.01) were seen in males given 1000 mg/kg/day. The majority of individual values were, however, within the background data ranges and were considered not to be of toxicological significance.
FUNCTIONAL OBSERVATIONS
There were no clear effects of treatment on functional observations monitored throughout the study or sensory reactivity to visual, acoustic, tactile or proprioceptive stimuli monitored towards the end of the study.
- Grip Strength: Any differences between control and treated animals of either sex were non dose-related and individual variation was high amongst animals. These differences were considered not related to treatment with the test material.
- Motor Activity: Any differences between control and treated animals were non dose-related and individual variation was high amongst animals. These differences were considered not related to treatment with the test material.
There were no unscheduled pup deaths on the study.
CLINICAL SIGNS (OFFSPRING)
A variety of clinical signs noted across all groups, including controls, were considered unrelated to maternal treatment with the test item.
BODY WEIGHT (OFFSPRING)
Group mean pup body weight gains between Days 1 and 4 of age were unaffected by maternal treatment with the test material.
GROSS PATHOLOGY (OFFSPRING)
There were no necropsy findings for pups considered to be related to maternal treatment with the test material.
INDICES (OFFSPRING)
The mean number of pups born per litter, sex ratio and mean live birth, viability and cumulative survival indices in all treated groups were comparable with controls.
Table 1 Pregnancy and Litter Data - P Generation Females and F1 Generation Litters - Group Mean Values
Dose (mg/kg/day) |
Number Littered (N) |
Gestation† Index (%) |
Mean† Duration of Gestation ± SD (Days) |
Mean† Number of Pups Born ± SD |
Mean† Live Birth Index (%) |
Mean† Viability Index 1 (%) |
Mean† Cumulative Survival Index (%) |
Sex Ratio† at Birth (M:F) |
0 |
10 |
100.0 |
22.2 ± 0.4 |
12.3 ± 1.7 |
100.0 |
100.0 |
100.0 |
49.4:50.6 |
100 |
10 |
100.0 |
22.4 ± 0.7 |
11.8 ± 2.0 |
100.0 |
100.0 |
100.0 |
44.8:55.2 |
300 |
10 |
100.0 |
22.0 ± 0.5 |
12.9 ± 1.0 |
100.0 |
100.0 |
100.0 |
47.7:52.3 |
1000 |
10 |
100.0 |
22.3 ± 0.5 |
11.2 ± 2.7 |
100.0 |
100.0 |
100.0 |
50.9:49.1 |
†= Statistically analysed
N = Number of animals in mean
SD = Standard deviation
Table 2 Number of Implantation Scars and Corpora Lutea - P Generation Females - Group Mean Values
Dose (mg/kg/day) |
|
Scars Left† |
Scars Right† |
Total Scars† |
Corpora Lutea Left† |
Corpora Lutea Right† |
Total Corpora Lutea† |
0 |
Mean SD N |
7 2 10 |
8 2 10 |
14 2 10 |
13.0 2.8 10 |
14.5 4.5 10 |
27.5 5.7 10 |
100 |
Mean SD N |
7 1 10 |
6 2 10 |
13 2 10 |
12.4 2.2 10 |
11.5 2.5 10 |
23.9 2.6 10 |
300 |
Mean SD N |
7 2 10 |
7 2 10 |
13 1 10 |
11.9 2.2 10 |
12.8 4.6 10 |
24.7 5.3 10 |
1000 |
Mean SD N |
6 2 10 |
7 2 10 |
13* 2 10 |
11 3.6 10 |
11.1 4.4 10 |
22.1* 5.4 10 |
†= Statistically analysed
N = Number of animals
SD = Standard deviation
* = p<0.05
Table 3 F1 Pup Bodyweights (g) - Group Mean Values
Males
Dose (mg/kg/day) |
N |
Bodyweight† (g) |
Bodyweight Gain†(g) (Day 1 to 4) |
|
1 Day of Age |
4 Days of Age |
|||
0 |
10 |
6.9 ± 0.5 |
10.5 ± 0.7 |
3.7 ± 0.3 |
100 |
10 |
7.2 ± 0.9 |
11.0 ± 1.3 |
3.7 ± 0.5 |
300 |
10 |
6.5 ± 0.6 |
9.8 ± 0.9 |
3.3 ± 0.4 |
1000 |
10 |
7.0 ± 1.0 |
10.6 ± 1.6 |
3.5 ± 0.7 |
Females
Dose (mg/kg/day) |
N |
Bodyweight† (g) |
Bodyweight Gain†(g) (Day 1 to 4) |
|
1 Day of Age |
4 Days of Age |
|||
0 |
10 |
6.5 ± 0.3 |
10.1 ± 0.6 |
3.6 ± 0.4 |
100 |
10 |
6.9 ± 0.8 |
10.6 ± 1.2 |
3.7 ± 0.5 |
300 |
10 |
6.2 ± 0.7 |
9.5 ± 1.1 |
3.3 ± 0.5 |
1000 |
10 |
6.7 ± 0.9 |
10.2 ± 1.3 |
3.6 ± 0.5 |
†= Statistically analysed
N = Number of litters in mean
Table 4 pup Necropsy - F1 Generation
Parameter |
Dose (mg/kg/day) |
|||
0 |
100 |
300 |
1000 |
|
N |
10 |
10 |
10 |
10 |
Number of Pups |
||||
Born Found dead/killed prematurely Missing (presumed cannibalised) Schedule sacrificed |
123 0 0 123 |
118 0 0 118 |
129 0 0 129 |
112 0 0 112 |
Findings: Dead/Moribund/Sacrificed Pups |
||||
No abnormalities No milk in stomach Right testis & epididymis abnormal red colour |
123 0 0 |
117 1 0 |
129 0 0 |
109 2 1 |
N = Total number of litters
Effect on fertility: via oral route
- Endpoint conclusion:
- no adverse effect observed
- Dose descriptor:
- NOAEL
- 1 000 mg/kg bw/day
- Study duration:
- subacute
- Species:
- rat
- Quality of whole database:
- The key study was conducted in accordance with the standardised guideline OECD 422 under GLP conditions. It was assigned a reliability score of 1 in accordance with the criteria set forth by Klimisch (1997).
Effect on fertility: via inhalation route
- Endpoint conclusion:
- no study available
Effect on fertility: via dermal route
- Endpoint conclusion:
- no study available
Additional information
Effect on fertility: via oral route
A combined repeated dose toxicity study with reproduction/developmental toxicity screening test was carried out in order to assess the test material in accordance with the standardised guideline OECD 422 under GLP conditions.
Three groups of 10 male and 10 female rats of the Crl:WI(Han) strain were dosed once daily, by oral gavage, with the test material at dose levels of 100, 300, or 1000 mg/kg/day. Another group of 10 male and 10 female rats were dosed with the vehicle (UHP water) following the same dosing regimen as the treated animals and were used as controls. The males were dosed for 14 days prior to pairing, during pairing and until the day prior to necropsy. The females were dosed for 14 days prior to pairing, during pairing and gestation, and up to and including Day 3 of lactation.
There were no unscheduled deaths on the study and administration of the test material was well tolerated; some parental effects were seen on bodyweights, lymphocyte counts and bone marrow adipocytes however the magnitude of change was small.
There was no effect of treatment on fertility or mating performance. There was no effect of treatment with the test material on the mean duration of gestation. The mean number of pups born per litter, sex ratio and mean live birth, viability and cumulative survival indices in all treated groups were comparable with controls. There were no unscheduled pup deaths on the study.
Group mean pup body weight gains between Days 1 and 4 of age were unaffected by maternal treatment with the test material and there were no necropsy findings for pups considered to be related to maternal treatment with the test material.
Under the conditions of this study, in the Wistar strain rat, the No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) for male and female repeated-dose toxicology was considered to be 300 mg/kg/day. The No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) for male and female reproductive performance was considered to be 1000 mg/kg/day.
In accordance with Section 1 of Annex XI of the Regulation (EC) 1907/2006 (REACH), it is considered justified to omit the two-generation reproductive toxicity study (required in section 8.7.3 of Annex IX) as testing does not appear scientifically necessary.
The oral study conducted to OECD Guideline 422 already sufficiently addresses the reproductive toxicity data requirements. No effects on reproductive function were seen in the screening study and the data available is sufficient to allow for the derivation of DNEL values.
Short description of key information:
TOXICITY TO REPRODUCTION
NOAEL 1000 mg/kg/day male and female Wistar strain rats
Justification for selection of Effect on fertility via oral route:
Only one study available.
Effects on developmental toxicity
Description of key information
DEVELOPMENTAL TOXICITY / TERATOGENICITY
NOAEL 1000 mg/kg/day Wistar strain rats
Link to relevant study records
- Endpoint:
- developmental toxicity
- Type of information:
- experimental study
- Adequacy of study:
- key study
- Study period:
- 2 August 2012 to 12 November 2012
- Reliability:
- 1 (reliable without restriction)
- Rationale for reliability incl. deficiencies:
- other: Study conducted to GLP in compliance with agreed protocols, with no or minor deviations from standard test guidelines and/or minor methodological deficiencies, which do not affect the quality of the relevant results.
- Qualifier:
- according to guideline
- Guideline:
- other: OECD Guideline 422 (Combined Repeated Dose Toxicity Study with the Reproduction / Developmental Toxicity Screening Test)
- Deviations:
- no
- GLP compliance:
- yes
- Limit test:
- no
- Species:
- rat
- Strain:
- Wistar
- Details on test animals or test system and environmental conditions:
- TEST ANIMALS
- Strain: Crl:WI(Han)
- Age at study initiation: On the first day of dosing, animals were 71 to 78 days of age.
- Weight at study initiation: On the first day of dosing, the males weighed 283 g to 333 g and the females weighed 184 g to 219 g.
- Housing: The animals were housed in groups of 5 by sex until pairing and for males post-pairing. For pairing, one male and one female were housed together and mated females were housed individually during gestation and with their litter during the lactation period. Males were housed in grid-floor cages suspended over paper-lined trays. During the pre-pairing and mating periods females were housed in grid-floor cages suspended over paper-lined trays and following mating females and their litter were housed in solid-floor cages with appropriate bedding provided.
- Diet (e.g. ad libitum): A pelleted rodent diet was supplied ad libitum.
- Water (e.g. ad libitum): Mains tap water (in bottles) was freely available.
- Acclimation period: The animals were acclimatised within the study room for 14 days before the start of treatment
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
- Temperature (°C): 20 to 23 °C (target range 21 ± 2 °C).
- Humidity (%): 46 to 79 % (target range 55 ± 15 %).
- Air changes (per hr): Not reported - the room was air-conditioned.
- Photoperiod (hrs dark / hrs light): The study room was illuminated by fluorescent light set to give a cycle of 12 hours light and 12 hours dark.
IN-LIFE DATES: From: 2 August 2012 To: 12 November 2012 - Route of administration:
- oral: gavage
- Vehicle:
- other: Elga UHP water
- Details on exposure:
- PREPARATION OF DOSING SOLUTIONS
The required amount of test material was weighed and approximately 80 % of the vehicle was added. The mixture was stirred and heated to approximately 50 ± 5 °C, as required, until a visibly homogenous liquid was formed. The formulation was allowed to cool to ambient temperature, followed by further addition with the vehicle to the exact volume. Due to the lack of any stability information, the formulations were prepared daily and used within 3 hours of preparation.
VEHICLE
- Dose volume: 10 mL/kg - Analytical verification of doses or concentrations:
- yes
- Details on analytical verification of doses or concentrations:
- FORMULATION SAMPLING
Samples were taken from each formulation. The formulations (including controls) prepared for use on the first day of dosing and subsequent formulations prepared for use during Week 6 were analysed to assess achieved concentrations. All remaining samples were stored frozen (approximately -18 °C).
ANALYSES OF TEST MATERIAL FORMULATIONS
Samples from each designated formulation, including the vehicle used to dose the control group, were analysed for the test material. During Week 6, individual achieved concentrations from the formulations prepared for use on Day 40 of the study (Groups 2 to 4) ranged from 113 to 126 % of the nominal. Since the majority of individual concentrations were above the acceptance criterion and contingency samples could not be analysed due to a lack of the frozen stability data, analysis of test material formulations prepared for use on Day 41 of the study (Groups 2 to 4 only) was performed.
METHOD OF ANALYSIS
The analytical procedure for the determination of the test material in water was conducted using UV/visible spectrophotometry using the test material, water and HPLC grade methanol.
- Instrument: Unicam UV/visible spectrophotometer
PROCEDURE
Linearity of Detection
The linearity of detection was assessed from triplicate measurements of six standards prepared at concentrations over the calibration range of the assay. The standard concentration and response data were subjected to linear regression analysis and the assay considered linear if the correlation coefficient (r) was no less than 0.99.
The linear correlation coefficient over the calibration range 20.32 to 81.80 µg/mL of the test material was 0.9968.
Precision of Detection
The precision of detection was assessed over the linear range from the coefficient of variation of the response factors (response/concentration) of all standards analysed in triplicate.
The precision of detection at the mid-point of the linear range was assessed from the coefficient of variation of the responses of a mid-point standard analysed six times consecutively. The precision of detection was considered acceptable if the coefficients of variation were no greater than 7.5 % for each assessment.
The precision of detection over the linear range was 3.4 %. The precision of detection at the mid-point of the linear range was 0 %.
System Stability
The stability of the system was assessed from the coefficient of variation of the responses of a mid-point standard, analysed six times interspersed throughout the run, and was considered acceptable if no greater than 7.5 %.
The stability of the system was 0.1 %.
Specificity
The specificity of the assay was assessed from the analysis of control samples and reagent blanks and was considered acceptable if the absorbance was no greater than 5 % of that of the lowest concentration standard.
No response that was attributed to the test material was observed in the control samples or reagent blanks.
Intra-Assay Accuracy and Precision
The intra-assay accuracy at each concentration, expressed as the mean accuracy values (n=3) was assessed from the analysis of triplicate samples of the test material in water, at concentrations of 10 mg/mL and 200 mg/mL. The assay was considered accurate if the individual and the mean measured concentrations of the test material were between 85 and 115 % of their nominal values. The intra-assay precision, expressed as the coefficient of variation of the individual accuracy values at each concentration, was considered acceptable if no greater than 10 %.
The individual accuracy values at 10 mg/mL were between 85 and 89 % with a mean value of 87 % and a precision value of 2.5 %. The individual accuracy values at 200 mg/mL were between 85 and 87 % with a mean value of 86 % and a precision value of 1.1 %.
Inter-Assay Accuracy and Precision
Assay accuracy and precision, were repeated on a separate occasion, using freshly prepared solutions and reagents, to establish the effects of such changes.
The inter-assay accuracy at each concentration, expressed as the mean accuracy values (n=6) obtained over two occasions, was considered acceptable if the individual and the mean measured concentrations of the test material were between 85 and 115 % of their nominal values.
The inter-assay precision at each concentration, expressed as the coefficient of variation of the individual accuracy values (n=6) obtained over two occasions, was considered acceptable if no greater than 15 %.
The individual accuracy values at 10 mg/mL were between 85 and 95 % with a mean value of 90 % and a precision value of 4.3 %. The individual accuracy values at 200 mg/mL were between 85 and 89 % with a mean value of 88 % and a precision value of 2.0 %.
RESULTS OF FORMULATION ANALYSIS
Formulations used to dose animals during Week 1 of the study were considered accurate since the measured concentrations were within 15 % of their nominal values which fulfilled the acceptance criterion.
The majority of samples from test formulations used to dose animals in Groups 2, 3 and 4 on Day 40 of the study (Week 6) showed higher levels of the test material than the target values (by up to 26 %), which was outside the specified acceptance criterion. Test material formulations used to dose animals in Groups 2, 3 and 4 on Day 41 of dosing were also higher than their nominal values (by up to 30 %), which was again outside the specified acceptance criterion. Although no reason could be established for these higher values, considering these animals were dosed at higher dose levels than their target, this was considered to have no impact on the validity of the No Observed Adverse Effect Levels (NOAELs) determined in this study.
No test material was detected in vehicle used to dose animals in Group 1. - Details on mating procedure:
- - M/F ratio per cage: After the pre-pairing dosing period, each female was paired with a treated male from the same group.
- Length of cohabitation: 14 days.
- Proof of pregnancy: During the pairing period, vaginal smears were taken daily, by lavage, until mating was confirmed either by sperm being found in the smear or by the number and nature of copulation plugs. The smear was examined under light microscopy and the stage of the oestrous cycle was determined by the type of cell present. The number of copulation plugs was also recorded to give an assessment of the mating activity of the animals. The day on which sperm were detected was referred to as Day 0 of gestation with the next day classified as Day 1 of gestation.
- After successful mating each pregnant female was caged (how): Mated females were housed individually during gestation and with their litter during the lactation period. - Duration of treatment / exposure:
- The males were dosed for 14 days prior to, and during pairing, and until the day prior to necropsy. The females were dosed once daily for 14 days prior to, and during pairing, gestation and until Day 3 of lactation, inclusive.
Any female in mid-parturition at the time of dosing was not dosed on that day. - Frequency of treatment:
- Once daily
- Duration of test:
- Females were sacrificed on Days 41 to 45; males were sacrificed on Day 55.
- Remarks:
- Doses / Concentrations:
0, 100, 300 and 1000 mg/kg
Basis:
actual ingested - No. of animals per sex per dose:
- 10 animals per sex per dose
- Control animals:
- yes, concurrent vehicle
- Details on study design:
- - Dose selection rationale: The dose levels were selected on the basis of results from a preliminary study. A high dose level of 1000 mg/kg/day was chosen, as this is the maximum dose level required by the guidelines. At this dose level in the preliminary study, clinical signs remained confined to excessive pre and/or post-dose salivation.
- Maternal examinations:
- CAGE SIDE OBSERVATIONS: Yes
- Time schedule: Animals were examined twice daily for mortality and morbidity. From the start of treatment, all animals were examined daily for clinical signs of toxicity or changes in behaviour and appearance.
During the treatment period, each main study animal was routinely checked pre-dose and soon after completion of dosing. On week days, additional observations were made approximately 1 hour after dosing and either approximately 4 hours after dosing or at the end of the working day (whichever was sooner). At weekends and public holidays, additional observations were made approximately 1 hour after dosing or at the end of the working day (whichever was sooner).
DETAILED CLINICAL OBSERVATIONS: Yes
- Time schedule: Each animal was given a detailed clinical examination once each week, from the start of treatment. Standard arena observations (functional observations) were made cage side and outside the home cage, in a standard arena, for all animals. Observations were recorded once prior to the start of dosing and once weekly thereafter during the dosing period, at approximately the same time of day on each occasion (afternoon). On Day 40 of the study, these observations were not recorded for any females in mid-parturition or on Day 0 of lactation; they were instead recorded on Day 42 of the study for those females.
BODY WEIGHT: Yes
- Time schedule for examinations: Female body weights were recorded at the start of treatment and then at weekly intervals until the day of mating. Body weights for females were also recorded on Days 0, 7, 14 and 20 of gestation and then on Days 0 (where required for dose volume calculation), 1 and 4 of lactation.
FOOD CONSUMPTION: Yes
- Time schedule: The amount of food consumed by the animals in each cage was recorded at weekly intervals during the pre-pairing dosing period. Food consumption of the females was also recorded over Days 0 to 4, 4 to 7, 7 to 10, 10 to 14, 14 to 17 and 17 to 20 of gestation and over Days 1 to 4 of lactation.
FOOD EFFICIENCY: No
WATER CONSUMPTION: No
OPHTHALMOSCOPIC EXAMINATION: No
URINALYSIS: No
OTHER: Neurobehavioural examinations, haematology and coagulation parameters and clinical chemistry parameters were evaluated. - Ovaries and uterine content:
- The ovaries and uterine content was examined after termination: Yes. The number of implantation scars and the number of corpora lutea for each female was recorded.
- Fetal examinations:
- F1 GENERATION
- Litter size and sex: The total litter size was recorded after completion of parturition and daily thereafter. Numbers of each sex were recorded on the same day as body weights were collected. The percentage of male pups, out of the total number of pups, was calculated for each litter. Day 0 of lactation was the day of completion of littering. The following day was considered to be Day 1 of lactation.
- Clinical observations: All pups were examined daily for clinical signs of toxicity or changes in behaviour and appearance.
- Mortality: Animals were examined twice daily for mortality and morbidity.
- Bodyweights: Pups were weighed individually on Days 1 and 4 of age. - Statistics:
- Non-parametric methods were employed if it was considered that the assumptions required for parametric analysis did not hold.
No analyses were performed for variables for which there were less than five independent observations in the control group; when treated groups had fewer than five observations analyses were performed at the discretion of the statistician.
Data from each sex was analysed separately. Statistical significance was declared at the p<0.05 level in all cases and noted at the p<0.01 and p<0.001 levels.
COMPARISONS
Group 1 (control) against Groups 2, 3 and 4 (100, 300 and 1000 mg/kg, respectively)
STATISTICAL TESTS AND PARAMETERS
Data were processed to give group mean values and standard deviations where appropriate. Where the data allowed, the following methods were used for statistical analysis:
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE AND WILLIAMS' TEST
(Non-parametric alternative: Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA and Shirley's Test)
Bodyweights and bodyweight gains, food consumption, number of implantation scars and number of corpora lutea, number of pups born, pup body weights and body weight gains (by sex and on litter basis), percentage of male pups, time course of mating, number of copulation plugs, duration of gestation, organ weights (absolute), relative organ weights (organ weights as a percentage of terminal body weight), clinical pathology data, grip strength and motor activity (timepoints 1 and 1 - 6 (total)).
ANALYSIS OF COVARIANCE
Motor activity (timepoints 2 to 6)
ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE
(Non-parametric alternative: Kruskal-Wallis Test)
Pre-dose body weights (Day 1)
COCHRAN ARMITAGE TREND TEST
Copulation and fertility indices
JONCKHEERE TERPSTRA TEST
Litter survival indices - Indices:
- REPRODUCTIVE INDICES
Copulation index (%) = (number of animals mated / number of animals paired) x 100
Female fertility index (%) = (number of pregnant animals / number of animals mated) x 100
Male fertility index (%) = (number of males siring a pregnancy / number of paired males )x 100
Gestation index (%) = (number of pregnant females with live pups born / number of pregnant females) x 100
OFFSPRING VIABILITY INDICES
Live birth index (%) = (number of pups born alive / total number of pups born) x 100
Viability index 1 (%) = (number of pups alive Day 4 of age / number of pups born alive) x 100
Cumulative survival index (%) = (number of pups alive Day 4 of age / total number of pups born) x 100 - Details on maternal toxic effects:
- Maternal toxic effects:yes
Details on maternal toxic effects:
CLINICAL SIGNS AND MORTALITY
There was no mortality and there were no clinical signs considered to be related to the toxicity of the test material.
BODY WEIGHT AND FOOD CONSUMPTION
During the first week of the pre-pairing period, females given 1000 mg/kg/day showed a stasis in group mean bodyweight with half of these animals losing body weight; in comparison control animals gained weight during this period and the difference was statistically significant (p<0.001). Thereafter, an improvement was evident such that during the second week of dosing, the mean bodyweight gain for these females was higher than controls, albeit without achieving statistical significance. Group mean bodyweight gains for these females during the gestation and lactation periods remained unaffected. For females receiving 100 or 300 mg/kg/day of the test material, there was no effect of treatment on body weight gain during any stage of the study.
Females given 1000 mg/kg/day showed slightly lower food intake during the pre-pairing period and over Days 0 to 4 of gestation (p<0.05) when compared with controls. Throughout the remainder of the gestation period, the mean food intake values for this group of females were marginally lower than controls, albeit without achieving statistical significance. During lactation, food intake values for these females were similar to controls.
For animals given 100 or 300 mg/kg/day of the test material, food intake values were generally similar to controls throughout the study.
REPRODUCTIVE FUNCTION: ESTROUS CYCLE
There was no effect of treatment with the test material on the mean number of days taken to mate. With an exception of one female from the control group and one female from the group receiving 300 mg/kg/day, all other females mated within 4 days of pairing; the two exceptions were in persistent dioestrous prior to mating. The mean number of copulation plugs remained unaffected by treatment with the test material.
REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE
There was no effect of treatment on fertility or mating performance.
There was no effect of treatment on the mean duration of gestation.
At 1000 mg/kg/day, group mean value for implantation scars was marginally but statistically significantly lower (p<0.05) than controls but this was considered coincidental; only 2 out of 10 animals had individual values slightly below controls. The mean number of corpora lutea for this group of females was also statistically significantly lower (p<0.05) than controls, however the recording of corpora lutea on Day 4 of lactation is considered inaccurate. Since post-partum oestrous occurs 24 to 48 hours after parturition in rats, during the lactation period there are two sets of corpora lutea; one from pregnancy and the other from the new oestrous. Since corpora lutea are counted under low magnification, it is impossible to distinguish between the two, and counting the corpora lutea may result in inaccurate numbers.
ORGAN WEIGHTS
At 1000 mg/kg/day, absolute and bodyweight-related liver weights were statistically significantly higher than controls (p<0.01). The majority of corresponding individual bodyweight-related liver weights for females, including controls, were above the background control data ranges. In the absence of any histopathology findings for the liver, the increases in liver weight were considered to be adaptive in nature and not indicative of toxicity.
At 300 or 1000 mg/kg/day, females also showed statistically significantly lower body weight-related heart weights than controls (p<0.05) but without any dose-relationship. The majority of individual values were within the background control data ranges and as there were no corresponding histopathology findings, this finding was considered not to be related to treatment with the test material.
GROSS PATHOLOGY
There were no macroscopic findings at necropsy considered to be related to the treatment with the test material.
HISTOPATHOLOGY
There was an equivocal change (erythrocytosis/erythrophagia) in the mesenteric lymph nodes for animals receiving 1000 mg/kg/day. No effect was noted for these parameters in the low or intermediate dose groups. In addition, an assessment of the bone marrow smears from control animals and those given 1000 mg/kg/day indicated that there was no effect of treatment on the assessed parameters.
A variety of spontaneous changes was noted in control and treated animals with no indication of an effect of treatment. The spectrum of these findings is generally consistent with changes encountered in rats of this age kept under laboratory conditions.
OTHER FINDINGS
HAEMATOLOGY AND COAGULATION
Leucocyte and lymphocyte values in all female groups given the test material were slightly lower than the respective control group, albeit without achieving statistical significance. In the absence of any associated histopathology findings, this was considered not to be of toxicological significance.
At 1000 mg/kg/day, females showed a marginal but statistically significant lowering in haemoglobin concentration (p<0.05) and slight prolongation of prothrombin time (p<0.001) when compared with controls. Individual haemoglobin concentrations were within the background control data range but respective prothrombin times were above these ranges. In the absence of any associated histopathology changes these findings were considered not to be toxicologically significant.
BLOOD CHEMISTRY
Statistically significantly higher mean plasma concentration of bile acids (p<0.05) was observed in females given 1000 mg/kg/day with respect to controls. At 100 or 300 mg/kg/day, a small number also showed higher concentrations of bile acids than controls. High individual variation seen in these animals may be due to the fact that these animals were not fasted prior to bleeding and the intergroup differences were considered unrelated to treatment.
FUNCTIONAL OBSERVATIONS
There were no clear effects of treatment on functional observations monitored throughout the study or sensory reactivity to visual, acoustic, tactile or proprioceptive stimuli monitored towards the end of the study.
- Grip Strength: Any differences between control and treated animals were non dose-related and individual variation was high amongst animals. These differences were considered not related to treatment with the test material.
- Motor Activity: Any differences between control and treated animals were non dose-related and individual variation was high amongst animals. These differences were considered not related to treatment with the test material. - Dose descriptor:
- NOAEL
- Effect level:
- 300 mg/kg bw/day (nominal)
- Based on:
- test mat.
- Basis for effect level:
- other: maternal toxicity
- Dose descriptor:
- NOAEL
- Effect level:
- 1 000 mg/kg bw/day (nominal)
- Based on:
- test mat.
- Basis for effect level:
- other: developmental toxicity
- Details on embryotoxic / teratogenic effects:
- Embryotoxic / teratogenic effects:no effects
Details on embryotoxic / teratogenic effects:
The mean number of pups born per litter, sex ratio and mean live birth, viability and cumulative survival indices in all treated groups were comparable with controls.
There were no unscheduled pup deaths on the study. Group mean pup body weight gains between Days 1 and 4 of age were unaffected by maternal treatment with the test material.
A variety of clinical signs noted across all groups, including controls, were considered unrelated to maternal treatment with the test item.
There were no necropsy findings for pups considered to be related to maternal treatment with the test material. - Abnormalities:
- not specified
- Developmental effects observed:
- not specified
- Conclusions:
- Under the conditions of this study, in the Wistar strain rat, the No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) for male and female repeated-dose toxicology was considered to be 300 mg/kg/day. The No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) for developmental effects was considered to be 1000 mg/kg/day.
- Executive summary:
A combined repeated dose toxicity study with reproduction/developmental toxicity screening test was carried out in order to assess the test material in accordance with the standardised guideline OECD 422 under GLP conditions.
Three groups of 10 male and 10 female rats of the Crl:WI(Han) strain were dosed once daily, by oral gavage, with the test material at dose levels of 100, 300, or 1000 mg/kg/day. Another group of 10 male and 10 female rats were dosed with the vehicle (UHP water) following the same dosing regimen as the treated animals and were used as controls. The males were dosed for 14 days prior to pairing, during pairing and until the day prior to necropsy. The females were dosed for 14 days prior to pairing, during pairing and gestation, and up to and including Day 3 of lactation.
There were no unscheduled deaths on the study and administration of the test material was well tolerated; some parental effects were seen on bodyweights, lymphocyte counts and bone marrow adipocytes however the magnitude of change was small.
There was no effect of treatment on fertility or mating performance. There was no effect of treatment with the test material on the mean duration of gestation. The mean number of pups born per litter, sex ratio and mean live birth, viability and cumulative survival indices in all treated groups were comparable with controls. There were no unscheduled pup deaths on the study.
Group mean pup body weight gains between Days 1 and 4 of age were unaffected by maternal treatment with the test material and there were no necropsy findings for pups considered to be related to maternal treatment with the test material.
Under the conditions of this study, in the Wistar strain rat, the No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) for male and female repeated-dose toxicology was considered to be 300 mg/kg/day. The No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) for developmental effects was considered to be 1000 mg/kg/day.
Reference
Table 1 F1 Pup Bodyweights (g) - Group Mean Values
Males
Dose (mg/kg/day) |
N |
Bodyweight†(g) |
Bodyweight Gain†(g) (Day 1 to 4) |
|
1 Day of Age |
4 Days of Age |
|||
0 |
10 |
6.9 ± 0.5 |
10.5 ± 0.7 |
3.7 ± 0.3 |
100 |
10 |
7.2 ± 0.9 |
11.0 ± 1.3 |
3.7 ± 0.5 |
300 |
10 |
6.5 ± 0.6 |
9.8 ± 0.9 |
3.3 ± 0.4 |
1000 |
10 |
7.0 ± 1.0 |
10.6 ± 1.6 |
3.5 ± 0.7 |
Females
Dose (mg/kg/day) |
N |
Bodyweight†(g) |
Bodyweight Gain†(g) (Day 1 to 4) |
|
1 Day of Age |
4 Days of Age |
|||
0 |
10 |
6.5 ± 0.3 |
10.1 ± 0.6 |
3.6 ± 0.4 |
100 |
10 |
6.9 ± 0.8 |
10.6 ± 1.2 |
3.7 ± 0.5 |
300 |
10 |
6.2 ± 0.7 |
9.5 ± 1.1 |
3.3 ± 0.5 |
1000 |
10 |
6.7 ± 0.9 |
10.2 ± 1.3 |
3.6 ± 0.5 |
†= Statistically analysed
N = Number of litters in mean
Table 4 pup Necropsy - F1 Generation
Parameter |
Dose (mg/kg/day) |
|||
0 |
100 |
300 |
1000 |
|
N |
10 |
10 |
10 |
10 |
Number of Pups |
||||
Born Found dead/killed prematurely Missing (presumed cannibalised) Schedule sacrificed |
123 0 0 123 |
118 0 0 118 |
129 0 0 129 |
112 0 0 112 |
Findings: Dead/Moribund/Sacrificed Pups |
||||
No abnormalities No milk in stomach Right testis & epididymis abnormal red colour |
123 0 0 |
117 1 0 |
129 0 0 |
109 2 1 |
N = Total number of litters
Effect on developmental toxicity: via oral route
- Endpoint conclusion:
- no adverse effect observed
- Dose descriptor:
- NOAEL
- 1 000 mg/kg bw/day
- Study duration:
- subacute
- Species:
- rat
- Quality of whole database:
- The key study was conducted in accordance with the standardised guideline OECD 422 under GLP conditions. It was assigned a reliability score of 1 in accordance with the criteria set forth by Klimisch (1997).
Effect on developmental toxicity: via inhalation route
- Endpoint conclusion:
- no study available
Effect on developmental toxicity: via dermal route
- Endpoint conclusion:
- no study available
Additional information
Effect on developmental toxicity: via oral route
A combined repeated dose toxicity study with reproduction/developmental toxicity screening test was carried out in order to assess the test material in accordance with the standardised guideline OECD 422 under GLP conditions.
Three groups of 10 male and 10 female rats of the Crl:WI(Han) strain were dosed once daily, by oral gavage, with the test material at dose levels of 100, 300, or 1000 mg/kg/day. Another group of 10 male and 10 female rats were dosed with the vehicle (UHP water) following the same dosing regimen as the treated animals and were used as controls. The males were dosed for 14 days prior to pairing, during pairing and until the day prior to necropsy. The females were dosed for 14 days prior to pairing, during pairing and gestation, and up to and including Day 3 of lactation.
There were no unscheduled deaths on the study and administration of the test material was well tolerated; some parental effects were seen on bodyweights, lymphocyte counts and bone marrow adipocytes however the magnitude of change was small.
There was no effect of treatment on fertility or mating performance. There was no effect of treatment with the test material on the mean duration of gestation. The mean number of pups born per litter, sex ratio and mean live birth, viability and cumulative survival indices in all treated groups were comparable with controls. There were no unscheduled pup deaths on the study.
Group mean pup body weight gains between Days 1 and 4 of age were unaffected by maternal treatment with the test material and there were no necropsy findings for pups considered to be related to maternal treatment with the test material.
Under the conditions of this study, in the Wistar strain rat, the No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) for male and female repeated-dose toxicology was considered to be 300 mg/kg/day. The No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) for developmental effects was considered to be 1000 mg/kg/day.
In accordance with Section 1 of Annex XI of the Regulation (EC) 1907/2006 (REACH), it is considered justified to omit the pre-natal development toxicity study (required in section 8.7.2 of Annex IX) as testing does not appear scientifically necessary.
The oral study conducted to OECD Guideline 422 already sufficiently addresses the developmental toxicity data requirements. No effects on development were seen in the screening study and the data available is sufficient to allow for the derivation of DNEL values.
Justification for selection of Effect on developmental toxicity: via oral route:
Only one study available.
Justification for classification or non-classification
In accordance with the criteria for classification as defined in Annex I, Regulation 1272/2008, the test material does not require classification for toxicity to reproduction.
Additional information
Information on Registered Substances comes from registration dossiers which have been assigned a registration number. The assignment of a registration number does however not guarantee that the information in the dossier is correct or that the dossier is compliant with Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 (the REACH Regulation). This information has not been reviewed or verified by the Agency or any other authority. The content is subject to change without prior notice.
Reproduction or further distribution of this information may be subject to copyright protection. Use of the information without obtaining the permission from the owner(s) of the respective information might violate the rights of the owner.