Final Report on the Developmental Toxicity of Mono(2-Ethylhexyl)Phthalate (CASNO. 4376-20-9) in CD-1-Swiss Mice. Volume 2. Laboratory Supplement

摘要

Mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) is the principle metabolite produced bymonohydrolysis of the plasticizer di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP). On a worldwide basis, DEHP production constitutes roughly 10 to 25% of the total annual production of phthalate acid esters (PAE) which is estimated to be from 3 to 4 X 10 to the 9th power lbs (Peakall, 1975; IARC, 1982). The PAE contaminate both the abiotic and biotic domains of geographically diverse ecosystems (Peakall, 1975). Detectable levels (ppb to ppm quantities) of these compounds occur in the atmosphere, water, soil, crude oil, bacteria, fungi, aquatic and terrestrial plants and animals and the PAE bioaccumulate in the lower trophic levels of the food web (Peakall, 1975; Tomita et al., 1977; Sheldon and Hites, 1978; Peterson and Freeman, 1984; Thomas and Thomas, 1984). Concerns over the biological effects of DEHP as well as other PAE are founded on their ubiquity in the environment and food chain, and thus the inevitable exposure of the human population. The report provides information and results of a study, conducted on mice, of the effects of DEHP on their reproductive system. Details of the investigative process are also provided.