Risk Assessment of Hepatotoxicity of TCDD During Pregnancy
Abstract
2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD, dioxin) is an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) mediated combustion by-product to which humans are exposed mainly through ingestion and partially through industrial processes such as fossil fuel combustion. Previous mammalian studies have shown that dioxin exposure results in both hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic effects, which is especially concerning during maternal exposures1. The process of embryogenesis relies heavily on the maternal blood flow for nutrients and waste excretion. With increased waste in the bloodstream, pregnant mothers are more susceptible to liver injury when exposed to persistent environmental pollutants, such as dioxin. Our study aims to assess the implications of dioxin exposure to pregnant females in mice of varying backgrounds in order to determine how genetic background influences hepatotoxic susceptibility and identify highly susceptible phenotypes within the population. This will ultimately aid in the identification of genetic susceptibilities and provide information that will assist in the development and application of innovative methods in assessing human health risks.
Subject
2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzodioxin (TCDD, dioxin)NOD/ShiLtJ (NOD)
C57Bl/6J (B6)
NZO/HiLt (NZO)
A/J (A/J)
Citation
Mtuke, Francis Takudzwa (2017). Risk Assessment of Hepatotoxicity of TCDD During Pregnancy. Undergraduate Research Scholars Program. Available electronically from https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /164563.