Fertility and developmental toxicity studies of diethylene glycol monobutyl ether (DGBE) in rats

Abstract

Objectives: The solvent, dimethylene glycol monobutyl ether (DGBE), is a component of latex paints, inks; it is used as a degreasing agent, industrial detergent. The aim of the study was evaluating the effects of DGBE administered by gavage on the estrous cycle and given with drinking water on fertility in rats and early development of their progeny. Materials and Methods: Female rats were exposed to DGBE by gavage during 8 weeks at 250, 500 or 1000 mg/kg/day. Vaginal smears were collected during the exposure and 4 weeks after its cessation. Fertility studies were performed in male and female animals exposed to in drinking water. Males were exposed for 10 weeks and then mated with females exposed before mating, during pregnancy and lactation. Young animals were observed during 3 weeks after birth. Results: DGBE does not cause disturbances of the menstrual cycle in females. Parameters used to assess the general toxicity indicate that males receiving DGBE in drinking water are more sensitive to this compound than females: significantly greater, dose-dependent relative spleen weight, significant decrease in hematological parameters from 8% to 15% depending on the dose, were observed. Clinical chemistry parameters (HDL-cholesterol, BUN) and some markers of oxidative stress differ between the exposed groups and the control one, but without adverse health effect. The microscopic examination of internal organs did not reveal morphological changes in male and female rats. Conclusion: The results of our study on the impact of exposure to DGBE on fertility in rats indicate that the substance administered for 9-10 weeks to females and males at a limit dose of 1000 mg/kg did not impair fertility or viability of their offspring during the first three weeks of life.

Usefulness of bovine and porcine IVM/IVF models for reproductive toxicology

“…However, this compound still harms human health since it is also a food toxicant. Dimethylene glycol monobutyl ether (DGBE) is present in latex paints, but is not toxic for rats after 10 weeks of exposure [ 159 ]. However, humans who by their profession may be exposed to these compounds for years might be affected.…”

Bioaugmentation: An Emerging Strategy of Industrial Wastewater Treatment for Reuse and Discharge

“…Glycol ethers, mainly ethylene glycol monobutyl ether and diethylene glycol monobutyl ether (DGBE) are polar solvents that are miscible with both organic chemicals and water, and are commonly used in paints and cleaners. These compounds are toxic in animal models [ 51 ], and are refractory to biodegradation, thus accumulate in the environment after their discharge in industrial wastewater [ 51 ]. Recently, Chen et al [ 51 ] evaluated the potential of a strain of Serratia sp.…”

“…These compounds are toxic in animal models [ 51 ], and are refractory to biodegradation, thus accumulate in the environment after their discharge in industrial wastewater [ 51 ]. Recently, Chen et al [ 51 ] evaluated the potential of a strain of Serratia sp. to remove DGBE in the context of bioaugmentation of contaminated wastewater from a silicon plate industry.…”