Reaction mass of Disodium decyl(sulphonatophenoxy)benzenesulphonate and Disodium oxybis[decylbenzenesulphonate]

Endpoint summary

Key value for chemical safety assessment

Effects on fertility

Description of key information

Short description of key information:
Reproductive/developmental screening studies have been conducted on category members DOWFAX C6L and 8390; both screens do not indicate an effect on fertility and reproduction. As all ADPODS category members only differ in structure and length of their alkyl side chains (refer to full read-across ADPODS category justification document), this structural difference is not expected to affect/change the overall reproductive toxicity potential for any of the category members including the registered substance.

Link to relevant study records

Reference

Endpoint:

screening for reproductive / developmental toxicity

Remarks:

based on test type (migrated information)

Type of information:

read-across based on grouping of substances (category approach)

Adequacy of study:

key study

Study period:

2006

Reliability:

1 (reliable without restriction)

Rationale for reliability incl. deficiencies:

other: GLP, guideline study

Justification for type of information:

Please see read across justification document.

Reason / purpose for cross-reference:

reference to same study

Reason / purpose for cross-reference:

reference to other study

Guideline:

OECD Guideline 421 (Reproduction / Developmental Toxicity Screening Test)

Principles of method if other than guideline:

Not applicable

GLP compliance:

yes

Limit test:

no

Species:

rat

Strain:

Crj: CD(SD)

Sex:

male/female

Details on test animals or test system and environmental conditions:

Animal Acquisition and Acclimation
A total of 56 male and 56 female Sprague-Dawley [Crl: CD@ (SD)IGS BR] rats (7-8 weeks of age upon arrival) were received on March 17,2005 fiom Charles River Laboratories, Portage, Michigan. Body weights were measured and recorded the day after arrival, and the sex of each animal was verified upon arrival. During the 1 1-day acclimation period, the animals were weighed and observed twice daily with respect to general health and any signs
of disease. All animals were given a detailed clinical examination prior to selection for study.

Randomization, Assignment to Study, and Maintenance
Prior to assignment to study, the animals were weighed and examined for evidence of disease and other physical abnormalities. Animals assigned to study had body weights within +/-20% of the mean body weight for each sex. Extra animals obtained for this study, but not placed on study, were euthanized via carbon dioxide inhalation and discarded. Using a standard, by weight, block randomization procedure, 48 male and 48 female rats (weighing 249 to 278 g and 198 to 221 g, respectively, at randomization) were assigned to the control or treated groups. Each animal was assigned an animal number to be used in Provantis and implanted with a microchip bearing a unique identification number. Each cage was identified by the study
number, animal number, group number, and sex. The individual animal number plus the study number comprised a unique identification for each rat. Pups were identified by tattoo on LD 0. Animal identification was verified during the conduct of the study, as documented
in the study data.

From acclimation until euthanasia, the rats were individually housed in suspended, stainless steel, wire-mesh type cages, except during pairing, near parturition, and during lactation. During pairing, animals were cohabited, one male and one female within the same treatment group. On approximately GD 20, females were individually housed in plastic cages containing wood chip bedding. Fluorescent lighting was provided for approximately 12 hours per day. Temperature and humidity were monitored and recorded daily. The protocol- designated ranges were 64 to 79°F and 30 to 70%, respectively. The actual temperature and humidity findings are not reported, but were reviewed and are maintained in the study file.

Diet (meal Lab Diet Certified Rdodent Diet #5002, PMI Nutrition International, Inc.) was available ad libitum. The lot number fiom each diet lot used for this study was recorded. Certification analysis of each diet lot was performed by the manufacturer. Tap water was available ad libitum via an automatic watering system. The water supply is monitored for specified contaminants at periodic intervals according to SOP. The results of food and water
analyses are retained in the Archives. The Study Director is not aware of any potential contaminants likely to be present in the diet or water that would have interfered with the results of the study. Therefore, no analyses other than those stated above were conducted.

Route of administration:

oral: gavage

Type of inhalation exposure (if applicable):

other: not applicable

Vehicle:

other: distilled water

Details on exposure:

Vehicle and Test Article Preparation
The test article was adjusted for purity (43.4% active ingredient). The required volume of vehicle, distilled water, was dispensed into amber glass containers for use on study weekly, prior to handling the test article, and stored at room temperature. To prepare the test article formulations, the required amount of test article, DOWFAX C6L, was weighed directly into a beaker. Vehicle was added to the beaker, and the contents were stirred using a magnetic stir bar and stir plate until dissolved. The contents of the beaker were transferred into a graduated cylinder. The beaker was rinsed with vehicle, and the rinse was transferred into the graduated cylinder. More vehicle was added to the cylinder to yield the required amount of prepared test article formulation. The cylinder was shaken thoroughly, and the contents were transferred into the beaker. The contents of the beaker were stirred using a magnetic stir bar and stir plate. The contents of the beaker were dispensed, while stirring, into amber glass containers, using a syringe.

To prepare the first weekly preparation of the 60 mg/kg/day formulation, the required amount of test article, DOWFAX C6L, was weighed directly into a beaker. Vehicle was added to the beaker, and the contents were stirred using a magnetic stir bar and stir plate until dissolved. The contents of the beaker were transferred into a graduated cylinder. Vehicle was added to the cylinder to yield the required amount of prepared test article formulation. The cylinder was shaken thoroughly, and the contents were transferred into an amber glass container.

Formulations of the test article were prepared for each concentration weekly and stored at room temperature.

Administration
The vehicle control and test article were administered for at least 42 consecutive days to males (14 days premating, 14 days of mating, and 14 days after completion of the mating period after all females had delivered) and up to 54 days in females dependent on reproductive performance (14 days premating, 14 days of mating [maximum], 22 days gestation and 4 days postpartum). The test article was administered to the treated groups via
oral gavage once per day at dose levels of 60,200, and 1000 mg/kg/day of DOWFAX C6L (corresponding to 125, 417, and 2083 mg/kg/day bulk material dose levels, based 48% purity) at a dose volume of 4 mL/kg. The control animals received the vehicle, distilled water, at the same volume, duration, and dosing regimen as the treated animals. Individual doses were based on the most recent body weight.

The vehicle and test article were administered via oral gavage using an appropriately-sized plastic disposable syringe attached to a Fuchigami dosing needle. The test article formulations were stirred continuously during test article administration using a magnetic stir bar and stir plate.

Details on mating procedure:

Breeding Procedures
After 14 days of treatment, the males were randomly cohabited, one male to one female, with the corresponding females in the treatment and control groups. Each female was housed in the cage of the male during pairing. Positive evidence of copulation was established by daily inspection for a copulatory plug in the vagina and/or sperm in the vaginal lavage. The day on which positive evidence of copulation was observed was considered GD 0. The rats were paired for a maximum of 14 days. If evidence of mating was confirmed, the female was removed fiom the cage of the male and individually housed. After the mating period, any unmated females were individually housed in a plastic cage with wood chip bedding in anticipation of undetected pregnancies.

After the mating period, the males were individually housed and continued on treatment for approximately 2 weeks or until all deliveries were completed and it was determined that an additional pairing was not necessary. At the end of this period, the males were euthanized and necropsied according to procedures indicated in the postmortem Study Evaluations section.

Analytical verification of doses or concentrations:

yes

Details on analytical verification of doses or concentrations:

All samples were analyzed for Dowfax C6L concentration using high erformance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet absorbance detection (HPLC/UV). Multiple aliquots of samples mixed in Milli-Q water were diluted further with Milli-Q water 25, 100 or 10000 fold depending on concentration.

Analysis conditions:
HPLC system: HP1100
Binary pump: DE03007092
Autosampler: DE03013232
Detector: JP92112458
Eluent A: Milli-Q water plus 0.1% phosphoric acid
Eluent B: Acetonitrile plus 0.1% phosphoric acid
Gradient time (min) %B
0.0 5
20.0 95
25.0 95
30.0 5
Flow rate: 1ml/min
Injection volume: 100ul/injection/sample
Column: YMC Octyl (C8),5u, 2x50 mm S/N 4776132091K 04 with YMC Octyl guard column
Wavelength: 254 nm
Sensitivty: 2000mAU
Response time: 2 sec
Detector output: 1V
Data system: PE Nelson Turbochrom Labratory Data System

Homogeneity and Concentration Verification
Duplicate samples (5 mL/sample) of the first weekly preparation of the 60 and 1000 mg/kg/day formulations were collected fiom the top, middle, and bottom of the container, using a syringe, and placed in amber glass containers to confirm test article homogeneity in the vehicle. Concentration verification was obtained for the first preparation by using the mean of the 60 and 1000 mg/kg/day formulation homogeneity results. Samples (5 mL/sample) of the 0 and 200 mg/kg/day formulations were also collected fiom the container, using a syringe, and placed in amber glass bottles to be analyzed for concentration verification.

Stability
The Sponsor has confirmed 14-day stability of the test article in the vehicle at ambient conditions for the proposed dosage range. Analysi by LC/UV indicated stability at 0.250, 2.50 and 250 mg/mL for at least 2 weeks.

Concentration
Samples (5 mL/sample) of each test article formulation were collected weekly for the first 4 weeks and the last full week of study fiom the middle of the container, using a syringe, and placed in amber glass bottles for analysis of test article concentration. Dose solution of 0.250 and 250 mg/mL were homogeneous with relative standard deviations of 0.602 and 1.52%, respectively. Targeted dose concentrations, of 0, 34.6, 115, and 576 mg/ml were analyzed to be >/= 89.8% of targeted concentration.




Analyses
Samples were stored at room temperature until shipped at ambient temperatures to the Sponsor for analysis. All analytical work was conducted by the Sponsor.

Duration of treatment / exposure:

The vehicle control and test article were administered for at least 42 consecutive days to males (14 days premating, 14 days of mating, and 14 days after completion of the mating period after all females had delivered) and up to 54 days in females dependent on reproductive performance (1 4 days premating, 14 days of mating [maximum], 22 days gestation and 4 days postpartum).

Frequency of treatment:

daily

Details on study schedule:

No additional data

Remarks:

Doses / Concentrations:
0, 125,417, and 2083 mg/kg/day
Basis:
other: nominal based on bulk material

Remarks:

Doses / Concentrations:
0, 54, 181, and 904 mg/kg/day
Basis:
other: nominal based on active ingredient ( 43.4% purity)

No. of animals per sex per dose:

12/sex/dose

Control animals:

yes, concurrent vehicle

Details on study design:

This study was conducted for The Dow Chemical Company to generate limited information concerning the effects of the test article, DOWFAX C6L, on male and female reproductive performance such as gonadal function, mating behavior, conception, development of the conceptus, and parturition. Three treatment groups of 12 male and 12 female Sprague-Dawley [Crl: CD® (SD)] rats were administered the test article at dose levels of 54, 181, and 904 mg/kg/day of DOWFAX C6L (corresponding to 125, 417, and 2083 mg/kg/day bulk material dose levels, based on 43.4% purity) at a dose volume of 4 mL/kg. One additional group served as the control and received the vehicle, distilled water, at the same volume and dosing regimen as the treated groups. The vehicle control and test article were administered for at least 42 consecutive days to males (14 days premating, 14 days of mating, and 14 days after completion of the mating period after all females had delivered) and up to 54 days in females dependent on reproductive performance (14 days of premating, 14 days of mating [maximum], 22 days gestation and 4 days postpartum).

Observations included clinical signs, body weights, and food consumption during the premating, gestation, lactation, and postmating periods. After 2 weeks of vehicle or test article administration, the females were cohabited with males, one male to one female, from the same treatment group, for up to 14 days. Vaginal smears (lavage) were evaluated daily in females during the 14-day period to establish estrous cyclicity. Once mating was confirmed on Gestation Day 0 (GSD 0), females were separated from the male for the remainder of gestation, and allowed to deliver and nurse litters until Lactation Day (LD) 4. Observations of the F1 (first generation offspring) pups included survival at birth and during lactation, individual pup body weights and sex, and clinical examinations on LD 0 and 4. Pups were euthanized and externally examined on LD 4. Complete necropsies were performed on all adult animals and protocol-designated organs and tissues were weighed and microscopically examined.

Positive control:

None

Parental animals: Observations and examinations:

Mortality and Cageside Observations
All rats were observed twice daily for morbidity, mortality, signs of injury, and availability of food and water.

Detailed Clinical Examinations
Detailed clinical examinations were conducted once prior to initiation of test article administration and daily during the study. During test article administration, these examinations were conducted approximately 60-90 minutes postdose. The observations were carefully recorded and an effort was made to ensure that variations in the test conditions were minimal. The observations included, but were not limited to, changes in the skin, fur, eyes,
mucous membranes, occurrence of secretions and excretions and autonomic activity, (e.g., lacrimation, piloerection, pupil size, unusual respiratory pattern). Changes in gait, posture and reactivity to handling, as well as the presence of clonic or tonic movements, stereotypics (e.g., excessive grooming, repetitive circling), difficult or prolonged parturition or bizarre behavior (e.g., self-mutilation, walking backwards) were also recorded. Pretest clinical observations are not reported, but are maintained in the study file.

Body Weights and Body Weight Changes
Individual body weights for the males and females were recorded the day after arrival, prior to randomization, at initiation of test article administration, weekly during the premating, mating, and postmating periods for males and unmated females through to termination. All mated females were weighed on GD 0,7, 14, and 20, and on LD 0 and 4, and at termination. Pretest body weights are not reported, but are maintained in the study file.

Food Consumption
Individual food consumption was measured and recorded weekly for all animals prior to, but not during, pairing. Following the cohabitation period, food consumption was recorded weekly for males and unmated females until euthanasia. Food consumption was recorded for all mated females on GD 0,7, 14, and 20 and LD 0 and 4.

Oestrous cyclicity (parental animals):

Estrous Cyclicity
Vaginal smears (lavage) were evaluated daily in females during the 2-week premating period to establish estrous cyclicity. The stage of estrous continued to be recorded during the mating period until evidence of mating was confirmed.

Sperm parameters (parental animals):

No data

Litter observations:

Parturition and P1 Litter Observations
Beginning on GD 19, females were examined twice daily for signs of parturition. Females were allowed to give birth with the young designated F I . The duration of gestation was calculated, and any difficulties occurring at pamuition were recorded. The day on which all pups were delivered was designated as LD 0. The litters were examined as soon as possible after delivery and parameters including litter size, number of still born and live born pups, pup body weights and external sexing, and gross external abnormalities of the pups were recorded. Pups were weighed and sex confirmed on LD 0 and 4, and any abnormal behavior observed in the pups was recorded. On LD 4, the pups were euthanized via intraperitoneal injection of sodium pentobarbital solution and necropsied as described in the Postmortem Study Evaluations section.

Postmortem examinations (parental animals):

Postmortem Study Evaluations
Macroscopic
At the termination of the study, all surviving adult animals were euthanized and examined. Males were euthanized by carbon dioxide inhalation after at least 4 weeks of treatment. Females were euthanized by inhalation of carbon dioxide according to the following schedule. Females that delivered were euthanized on LD 4. Females that failed to deliver (with evidence of mating) were euthanized 25 days after evidence of mating was detected. Females that failed to deliver (with no evidence of mating) were euthanized 25 days after completion of the mating phase. The animals were examined carefully for external abnormalities including palpable masses. The skin was reflected from a ventral midline incision and any subcutaneous masses were identified and correlated with antemortem findings. The abdominal, thoracic, and cranial cavities were examined for abnormalities. Special emphasis was placed on organs of the reproductive system. Implantation sites (scars) were counted and recorded in females. All tissues were fixed in neutral buffered formalin.

Organ Weights
Body weights and protocol-specified organ weights were recorded at scheduled necropsy and appropriate organ weight ratios were calculated (relative to body weights). Paired organs were weighed together. Organs were not weighed for animals dying spontaneously.

Microscopic
Microscopic examination of fixed hematoxylin and eosin-stained paraffin sections was performed on protocol-designated sections of tissues. The slides were examined by a veterinary pathologist. A four-step grading system was utilized to define gradable lesions for comparison between dose groups. Normally developing implants from one female at 1000 mg/kg/day (animal number 287) that died pregnant were saved in 10% neutral buffered
formalin for possible future examination.

A full list of organs and tissues were collected, weighed, and examined.

Postmortem examinations (offspring):

Pup Evaluations
F1 pups found dead at birth or during the lactation period were given a gross external examination for abnormalities. The pups found dead at birth were given a lung flotation test to determine stillborn status. If the lungs floated, the pups were determined not stillborn. Pups that survived to scheduled euthanasia (LD 4) were examined externally and subjected to a complete necropsy performed under procedures approved by a veterinary pathologist. Gross lesions were saved in 10% neutral buffered forrnalin for possible hture histopathologic examination.

Statistics:

The table below defines the sets of comparisons used in the statistical analyses described in
this section.
Statistical Comparisons
Control Group Treatment Groups
1 2,3,4
The endpoints that were analyzed and the methods of analysis that were employed are presented in the table Statistical Analysis Methods
Endpoint Analysis
Parental In-life Data
Premating body weights Group Pair-wise Comparisons
Premating body weight change Group Pair-wise Comparisons
Mating and postmating body weight - Group Pair-wise Comparisons
males
Postmating body weight change - males Group Pair-wise Comparisons
Postmating food consumption - males Group Pair-wise Comparisons
Gestation body weights Group Pair-wise Comparisons
Gestation body weight change Group Pair-wise Comparisons
Gestation food consumption Group Pair-wise Comparisons
Lactation body weights Group Pair-wise Comparisons
Lactation body weight change Group Pair-wise Comparisons
Lactation food consumption Group Pair-wise Comparisons
Premating estrous cycling (number of Group Pair-wise Comparisons
cycles/period and mean cycle time)

Fertility Indices
Gestation Length Group Pair-wise Comparisons
Copulatory Interval (i. e., days-to-mating) Group Pair-wise Comparisons
Male Fertility Index Fisher's Exact Test
Female Fertility Index Fisher's Exact Test

Stats cont'd below

Reproductive indices:

See stats above and below

Offspring viability indices:

See stats above and below

Clinical signs:

effects observed, treatment-related

Body weight and weight changes:

effects observed, treatment-related

Food consumption and compound intake (if feeding study):

effects observed, treatment-related

Organ weight findings including organ / body weight ratios:

no effects observed

Histopathological findings: non-neoplastic:

no effects observed

Other effects:

not examined

Reproductive function: oestrous cycle:

no effects observed

Reproductive function: sperm measures:

not examined

Reproductive performance:

no effects observed

Mortality
At the high-dose level (904 mg/kg/day) two males (animal numbers 238 and 239) died on Study Days 49 and 57, respectively and four females (animal numbers 287,288,290, and 293) died on GD 16, LD1, Premating Day 4 and LD 3, respectively. The death of these animals was considered to be test article related.

Detailed Clinical Observations
Common clinical observations noted for the high dose (904 mg/kg/day) males (animal numbers 238 and 239) just prior to unscheduled deaths included activity decreased, brown material around mouth and soft feces. There were no common clinical observations noted for the high dose (904 mg/kg/day) females (animal numbers 287, 288, 290 and 293) just before unscheduled deaths. A greater incidence of adverse clinical observations was
recorded during the study at the high dose level (904 mg/kg/day) for both the male and female animals. It should be noted that most of the adverse clinical observations were related to the animals that either died or were found dead. Some of the more common clinical observations noted at the high dose level (1 000 mg/kg/day) in males included salivation, soft feces, breathing difficulties, discolored material around nose and mouth. During the premating, gestation, and lactation periods, similar clinical findings were observed in the female rats, but at a lower frequency. A low incidence of other clinical observations was noted that did not follow a dose response relationship and thus were not considered toxicologically meaningful.

Body Weights and Body Weight Changes
No statistically significant changes in the mean body weight were found in any male treatment group during the course of the study. A decreased body weight gain in the high dose (904 mg/kg/day) males was statistically identified during the first two weeks of premating. A slight trend in decreased body weight gain at the end of the study period (weeks 8-9) was also noted at the male high dose level (904 mg/kg/day).

Mean female body weight values were comparable among the groups during the premating, gestation, and lactation periods. Body weight changes were significantly decreased in the high dose group (904 mg/kg/day) at the GD interval 14-20. The decrease in body weight changes was considered to be treatment related. A decrease in body weight change in the low dose group (60 mg/kg/day) during lactation was statistically identified. However, due to the lack of a clear dose-response relationship and its sporadic occurrence, it was not considered test article-related.

Food Consumption
In male rats, food consumption was not affected at any of the dose levels examined. A statistically significant increase was noted for males in the high dose group (904 mg/kg/day) during the postmating interval (Weeks 7-8). This was not considered toxicologically meaningful, as the remaining food consumption values at that dose level and for the other dose groups were comparable. In female rats food consumption in the treated groups was not significantly reduced during the premating and gestation periods. Food consumption was significantly decreased in the low dose group (54 mg/kg/day) during lactation (78% of control value). This was consistent with the decrease in the body weight changes observed in the same dose group during lactation.

Estrous Cyclicity
Mean cycle length and number of estrous cycles were comparable among the groups, including the control.

Postmortem Study Evaluations
Macroscopic Observations
No test article-related macroscopic changes were noted in rats of either sex that received DOWFAX C6L.

Brown discoloration of the liver was noted in one male (1 000 mg/kg/day) (animal number 238), that died on study (DOS), and this was considered to be incidental. Brown liver discoloration corresponded microscopically to minimal focal necrosis. This finding was not observed in any other animal at scheduled necropsy.

Other macroscopic changes noted were typical of those commonly seen in rats of the same strain and age, and were considered to be incidental.

Organ Weights
No test article-related organ weight changes were noted in rats of either sex. A statistically significant increase was noted in the relative liverbody weight ratio in females at the low dose level (54 mg/kg/day). As the relative liver/body weight ratio for females at the high dose levels were comparable to the control, this was considered incidental and not treatment related.

Microscopic Observations
No test article-related microscopic changes were noted in rats of either sex.

Minimal focal necrosis was noted in the liver of one DOS male (904 mg/kg/day), but this was not seen in rats of either sex at terminal necropsy, and was considered to be incidental.

Other microscopic changes noted were typical of those commonly seen in rats of the same strain and age or had a similar incidence in treated and control rats, and were considered to be incidental.

Reproductive Performance
Mating, fertility, and fecundity indices in male and female rats were not impacted by the test article. Copulatory interval (days) was increased slightly in the high dose group (904 mg/kg/day), but the value (3.8 days) was within the historical control range of 2 to 4.8 days.

Dose descriptor:

other: NOEL- maternal and developmental toxicity

Effect level:

181 mg/kg bw/day (nominal)

Sex:

male/female

Basis for effect level:

other: see 'Remark'

Clinical signs:

effects observed, treatment-related

Mortality / viability:

mortality observed, treatment-related

Body weight and weight changes:

effects observed, treatment-related

Sexual maturation:

not examined

Organ weight findings including organ / body weight ratios:

not examined

Gross pathological findings:

no effects observed

Histopathological findings:

not examined

F1 Litter Data
Parturition and Day 4 Litter Size Data
Gestation length and gestation index, number of pups born per litter, number of dead pups, stillborn index, and total implantation scars per litter were not affected. On LD 4, mean number of live pupsflitter was comparable among the groups.

Pup Sex Ratios
Pup sex ratio and mean number of live pups on LD 4 were not significantly different between the control and treatment groups.

Pup Survival Indices
The pup viability index (%) was slightly reduced in the high dose group (904 mg/kg/day), but it was not statistically different from control. The pup viability index in the high dose group (904 mg/kg/day) was 85.91%, as compared to the control values of 97.23%. This decrease may be correlated to a single litter at the high dose level (904 mg/kg/day) that gave birth to 15 pups, of which six were stillborn.

Pup Clinical Findings
In the pups, test article-related clinical findings were observed in the high dose group (904 mg/kg/day). These include decreased activity which was observed in ten pups on LD 0 and skin cold to touch, which was seen in seven pups on LD 0 and one pup on LD 0 and 4.

Pup Body Weight
Pup body weight by sex and both sexes combined was significantly reduced in the high dose group (904 mg/kg/day) on LD 0. Similarly, on LD 4, male pup body weights and both sexes combined was significantly reduced in the high dose group (904mg/kg/day). However, female pup body weight on LD 4 was decreased, but not significantly.

Pup Macroscopic
Macroscopic examination did not reveal any treatment-related macroscopic lesions in pups of either sex LD 4. All organs examined were within the normal limits, with the exception of six pups (four males and two females) in the control, one male pup in the low dose (54 mg/kg/day), and one male pup in the mid dose group (181 mg/kg/day) that had minor - findings.

Dose descriptor:

NOEL

Generation:

F1

Effect level:

200 mg/kg bw/day (nominal)

Based on:

test mat.

Sex:

male/female

Basis for effect level:

clinical signs

body weight and weight gain

Reproductive effects observed:

yes

Lowest effective dose / conc.:

200 mg/kg bw/day (nominal)

Treatment related:

yes

Relation to other toxic effects:

reproductive effects occurring together with other toxic effects, but not as a secondary non-specific consequence of other toxic effects

Dose response relationship:

not specified

Relevant for humans:

not specified

None

Conclusions:

The objective of this study was to generate limited information concerning the effects of the test article, DOWFAX C6L, on male and female reproductive performance such as gonadal function, mating behavior, conception, development of the conceptus, and parturition. Mortality and clinical signs of toxicity were observed in parental animals of the high dose group (1000 mg/kg/day). Body weight changes were also affected in the high dose group (904 mg/kg/day) during gestation. In pups, test article-related clinical signs and body weight effects were observed in the high dose group (904 mg/kg/day) and these findings observed in conjunction with maternal toxicity. Based on the results of this study, the No-Observed-Effect-Level (NOEL) for maternal and developmental toxicity was considered to be 181 mg/kg/day.

Executive summary:

This study was conducted for The Dow Chemical Company to generate limited information concerning the effects of the test article, DOWFAX C6L, on male and female reproductive performance such as gonadal function, mating behavior, conception, development of the conceptus, and parturition. Three treatment groups of 12 male and 12 female Sprague-Dawley [Crl: CD® (SD)] rats were administered the test article at dose levels of 54, 181, and 904 mg/kg/day of DOWFAX C6L (corresponding to 125, 417, and 2083 mg/kg/day bulk material dose levels, based on 43.4% purity) at a dose volume of 4 mL/kg. One additional group served as the control and received the vehicle, distilled water, at the same volume and dosing regimen as the treated groups. The vehicle control and test article were administered for at least 42 consecutive days to males (14 days premating, 14 days of mating, and 14 days after completion of the mating period after all females had delivered) and up to 54 days in females dependent on reproductive performance (14 days of premating, 14 days of mating [maximum], 22 days gestation and 4 days postpartum).

Observations included clinical signs, body weights, and food consumption during the premating, gestation, lactation, and postmating periods. After 2 weeks of vehicle or test article administration, the females were cohabited with males, one male to one female, from the same treatment group, for up to 14 days. Vaginal smears (lavage) were evaluated daily in females during the 14-day period to establish estrous cyclicity. Once mating was confirmed on Gestation Day 0 (GSD 0), females were separated from the male for the remainder of gestation, and allowed to deliver and nurse litters until Lactation Day (LD) 4. Observations of the F1 (first generation offspring) pups included survival at birth and during lactation, individual pup body weights and sex, and clinical examinations on LD 0 and 4. Pups were euthanized and externally examined on LD 4. Complete necropsies were performed on all adult animals and protocol-designated organs and tissues were weighed and microscopically examined.

Two males and four females in the high dose group (904 mg/kg/day) died during the course of the study. The deaths did not appear to have been related to a mechanical dosing error, as no evidence of esophageal perforation was noted at necropsy. For the males, the deaths occurred on study days 49 and 57. For the females, the deaths

occurred on premating day 4, GD 16, LD 1 and LD 3. The death of these animals was considered to be test article related.

Effect on fertility: via oral route

Endpoint conclusion:

no adverse effect observed

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

181 mg/kg bw/day

Study duration:

subacute

Species:

rat

Quality of whole database:

acceptable

Effect on fertility: via inhalation route

Endpoint conclusion:

no study available

Effect on fertility: via dermal route

Endpoint conclusion:

no study available

Additional information

Two screening studies were conducted with category members (DOWFAX C6L and 8390-refer to full read-across ADPODS category justification document). There were no observed effects on fetal or neonatal survival, litter sizes or individual pup appearance at parentally toxic dose levels. Importantly, no effects on fertility or reproduction of the two bracketing category members were observed. The data from the category substances are considered sufficient to assess reproductive toxicity potential of Reaction mass of Disodium decyl(sulphonatophenoxy)benzenesulphonate and Disodium oxybis[decylbenzenesulphonate]. Based on the lack of reproductive toxicity observed in the studies with category members, it is argued that the REACH-registered substance is also not a reproductive toxicant.

Justification for selection of Effect on fertility via oral route:
GLP guideline study for the shortest ADPODS category member (closest to the registered substance and most conservative approach), is considered the most appropriate for the assessment of reproduction and fertility of Reaction mass of Disodium decyl(sulphonatophenoxy)benzenesulphonate and Disodium oxybis[decylbenzenesulphonate].

Effects on developmental toxicity

Description of key information

Chernoff developmental toxicity study on DOWFAX C6L category member (the shortest ADPODS category member and most conservative approach) is available for the ADPODS category (refer to full read-across ADPODS category justification document).

These ADPODS category members only differ in structure and length of their alkyl side chains; this structural difference is not expected to further affect/change the overall developmental toxicity potential for any of the category members, including the registered substance.

Link to relevant study records

Reference

Endpoint:

developmental toxicity

Type of information:

read-across based on grouping of substances (category approach)

Adequacy of study:

key study

Study period:

1985

Reliability:

2 (reliable with restrictions)

Rationale for reliability incl. deficiencies:

other: The study was not conducted according to guidelines but was conducted according to GLPs and the report contains sufficient data for interpretation of study results.

Justification for type of information:

Please see read across justification document.

Reason / purpose for cross-reference:

reference to same study

Reason / purpose for cross-reference:

reference to other study

Qualifier:

no guideline followed

Principles of method if other than guideline:

The Chernoff test has been developed as a short-term screening technique for developmental toxicity (Chernoff & Kavlock, 1980). In general, a single dose level (1000 mg/kg/day, or lower) producing some measure of maternal toxicity (not to exceed 10% mortality or 30% lower weight gain than controls) is administered to pregnant animals during the period of major organogenesis. The dams are allowed to deliver and the pups are weighed and counted on days 1 and 3 postpartum (day 1 is the day of birth). The underlying hypothesis for this assay is that a wide spectrum of developmentally toxic effects will be expressed as intrauterine death or impaired neonatal growth or survival.

GLP compliance:

yes

Limit test:

no

Species:

rat

Strain:

Fischer 344

Details on test animals or test system and environmental conditions:

Test Animals
Stock supplies of adult male and female Fischer 344 rats were obtained from Charles River Laboratory, Kingston, NY. This strain was selected for use on the basis of its general acceptance and suitability for toxicity testing and the availability of a reliable commercial supplier. Upon arrival at the laboratory (Fully accrdited by the American Association for Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC)), animals were examined for health status by the laboratory veterinarian and acclimated to the laboratory environment according to the Standard Operating Procedures of the Reproductive Toxicology Laboratory in rooms designed to control temperature (approx. 22°C), humidity (approx. 50%) and light cycle (12 hours light and dark). Virgin female rats weighing approximately 165-225 grams were bred with stock animals and day 0 of pregnancy was determined by the presence of sperm in vaginal smears. Randomization of test animals into groups was performed using computer generated tables of random numbers according to their day 0 of pregnancy. Rats placed on study were uniquely identified by inserting a numbered metal tag in the ear of each rat. Animals were allowed free access to Purina Certified Rat Chow #5002 (Ralston Purina Company, St. Louis, MO) and tap water. Analysis of the Purina Certified Rat Chow was performed by the Ralston Purina Company to confirm that the diet provide adequate nutrition, and to quantify the levels of selected contaminants associated with the formulation process. Analysis of municipal water is performed according to the Standard Operating Procedures of the Mammalian and Environmental Toxicology Research Laboratory.

Route of administration:

oral: gavage

Vehicle:

water

Details on exposure:

Groups of 29 and 37 bred females were given test material in water by gavage on days 6 through 15 of gestation at dose levels of 300 and 1000 mg/kg/day,
respectively. Oral gavage was selected as the most appropriate route to administer an accurate dose over the limited period of dosing. Test material dose
solutions were prepared in deionized water such that a dose volume of 4 ml/kg provided the appropriate dose and dose volumes were adjusted daily
according to body weights. The top dose level of 1000 mg/kg/day was selected on the basis of the results of the probe study discussed previously, and as the maximum dose level required by the guidelines in the event that maternal toxicity is not apparent. A lower dose level was selected for this study as suggested by guidelines and to insure the presence of a no effect level. A control group of 43 bred females was administered the deionized water vehicle.

Details on analytical verification of doses or concentrations:

Each dosing solution prepared was analyzed once during the course of this study and the mean concentration for all solutions was calculated to be 100.7 + 1.0% of the targeted concentration (Freshour, 1985).

Details on mating procedure:

Virgin female rats weighing approximately 165-225 grams were bred with stock animals and day 0 of pregnancy was determined by the presence of sperm in vaginal smears.

Duration of treatment / exposure:

Days 6 through 15 of gestation.

Frequency of treatment:

Daily

Duration of test:

Not specified in report but at least up to post -partum day 3 when lactation body weights were taken.

No. of animals per sex per dose:

Groups of 29 and 37 bred females were given test material in water by gavage on days 6 through 15 of gestation at dose levels of 300 and 1000 mg/kg/day,
respectively.

Control animals:

yes, concurrent vehicle

Details on study design:

Test Procedure
All animals were examined daily for signs of toxicity. Body weights were recorded daily during the period of dosing, and on days 16 and 21 of gestation. Statistical analyses of maternal body weight and body weight gain were performed using data recorded on gestation days 6, 9, 12, 16 and 21. Food and water consumption were recorded at 3 day intervals during days 6 through 21 of gestation.

On day 21 of gestation, all pregnant females were transferred to plastic shoe box cages provided with corn cob nesting material and allowed to deliver their litters. All litters were examined as soon as possible after delivery for the presence of external anomalies, with the day of delivery considered day 1 post partum. The following parameters were recorded for each litter : ( 1 ) the date of parturition, (2) litter size on day 1 and day 3 postpartum, (3) the weight of the litter and lactating mother on day 1 and day 3 postpartum, ( 4 ) the sex of each pup, and (5) the number of live pups on day 1 and day 3 postpartum which had milk in their stomachs. Pups which were found dead during the course of the study were examined for anomalies t o the extent allowed by the condition of the pup.

Animals which did not deliver a litter within three days after the expected date of parturition were sacrificed and the uterus examined for the presence of resorbed implantations. Uteri which did not show visible evidence of implantations were stained with a 10% solution of sodium sulfide (Kopf et al., 1964) and examined for evidence of implantation sites. Adult animals, which died spontaneously, were submitted for gross pathologic examination and details of the condition of the uterus and contents were recorded. At the termination of the study, all maternal animals and neonates were sacrificed with no further examination.

Maternal examinations:

All animals were examined daily for signs of toxicity. Body weights were recorded daily during the period of dosing, and on days 16 and 21 of gestation. Statistical analyses of maternal body weight and body weight gain were performed using data recorded on gestation days 6, 9, 12, 16 and 21. Food and water consumption were recorded at 3 day intervals during days 6 through 21 of gestation.

Adult animals which died spontaneously were submitted for gross pathologic examination and details of the condition of the uterus and contents were recorded. At the termination of the study, all maternal animals and neonates were sacrificed with no further examination.

Ovaries and uterine content:

On day 21 of gestation, all pregnant females were transferred to plastic shoe box cages provided with corn cob nesting material and allowed to deliver their litters. All litters were examined as soon as possible after delivery for the presence of external anomalies, with the day of delivery considered day 1 post partum. The following parameters were recorded for each litter : ( 1 ) the date of parturition, (2) litter size on day 1 and day 3 postpartum, (3) the weight of the litter and lactating mother on day 1 and day 3 postpartum, ( 4 ) the sex of each pup, and (5) the number of live pups on day 1 and day 3 postpartum which had milk in their stomachs.

Animals which did not deliver a litter within three days afte the expected date of parturition were sacrificed and the uterus examined for the presence of resorbed implantations. Uteri which did not show visible evidence of implantations were stained with a 10% solution of sodium sulfide (Kopf et al., 1964) and examined for evidence of implantation sites. Adult animals which died spontaneously were submitted for gross pathologic examination and details of the condition of the uterus and contents were recorded.

Fetal examinations:

Pups which were found dead during the course of the study were examined for anomalies to the extent allowed by the condition of the pup. At the termination of the study, all maternal animals and neonates were sacrificed with no further examination.

Statistics:

Descriptive statistics (means and standard deviations) were reported for food and water consumption. Body weights and body weight gains were evaluated by Bartlett's test (Winer, 1971) for equality of variance. Based on the outcome of Bartlett's test, a parametric (Steel and Torrie, 1960) or nonparametric (Hollander and Wolfe, 1973) analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed. If the ANOVA was significant, analysis was performed by Dunnett's test (Winer, 1971) or the Wilcoxon Rank-Sum test (Hollander and Wolfe, 1973) with Bonferroni's correction (Miller, 1966). Pup body weights were analyzed by Bartlett's test for equality of variances using the number of live pups on days 1 and 3 as a covariate to correct for differences in weights due to litter size. Statistical outliers were identified by a sequential outlier test (Grubbs, 1969) but, only outliers for food and water consumption values were excluded from analysis unless justified by documented, scientifically sound reasons, unrelated to treatment.

Indices:

The pregnancy rate was analyzed by the Fisher exact probability test (Siege1 , 1956). Survival indices and other incidence data among neonates were analyzed by the Wilcoxon test as modified by Haseman and Hoel (1974), using the litter as the experimental unit.

Historical control data:

No data

Details on maternal toxic effects:

Maternal toxic effects:yes

Details on maternal toxic effects:
During the course of dosing, the majority of animals in the 1000 mg/kg/day dose group exhibited perineal staining and/or loose and watery stools. The majority of these observations were made during the initial 3-4 days of dosing, but occasionally animals would exhibit these signs during the later half of the dosing period. Two deaths occurred during the course of the study, both among animals at 1000 mg/kg/day. One death was considered to be associated with an intubation error; however, the cause of death of the other animal was not determined.

There were no statistically identified differences in the overall body weights in any dose group when compared to controls, though the body weights in the 1000 mg/kg/day dose group were frequently slightly lower than in the controls. Evaluation of the maternal body weight gains during gestation, however, revealed significant treatment-related decreases in weight gain in both treatment groups during the dosing period when compared to controls. Weight gain during the dosing period among pregnant rats given 1000 mg/kg/day was approximately 24% lower than in the controls, while weight gain, among the 300 mglkglday dose group was approximately 26% lower than the control value. This decrease in weight gain was still evident on day 21 of gestation in the 1000 mg/kg/day dose group, while animals given 300 mg/kg/day gained slightly more weight than the controls after dosing had been completed and overall weight gain (days 6 through 21) was not significantly different from the controls.

Comparison of mean food and water consumption data for these animals revealed no appreciable differences in food consumption among the various groups. However, water consumption among the 1000 mg/kg/day animals was increased during the period of dosing when compared to controls, a finding consistent with data generated in a preliinary study (Hanley, et al., 1985).

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

Effect level:

1 000 mg/kg bw/day (nominal)

Based on:

test mat.

Basis for effect level:

other: developmental toxicity

Dose descriptor:

LOAEL

Effect level:

< 300 mg/kg bw/day (nominal)

Based on:

test mat.

Basis for effect level:

other: maternal toxicity

Details on embryotoxic / teratogenic effects:

Embryotoxic / teratogenic effects:yes

Details on embryotoxic / teratogenic effects:
The pregnancy rate among rats given 1000 mg/kg/day was slightly lower than the control rate; however, there were no totally resorbed litters in any of the animals which failed to deliver a litter detected after staining the uteri with sodium sulfide. Since treatment of animals in this study did not begin until day 6 of gestation, the low pregnancy rates observed in all groups were not considered to be related to treatment. The mean litter size among rats given the high dose level was slightly lower than the control value but this difference was not statistically significant. There were no fetuses born dead among the litters given 1000 mg/kg/day during gestation. Examination of the fetuses on the day of delivery (day 1) revealed significant percentages of fetuses at 1000 and 300 mg/kg/day which did not have milk in their stomachs. However, there were no differences in the incidence of milk in the stomachs of pups examined on day 3 postpartum and neonatal survival was not affected at either dose level when compared to controls. Evaluation of pup body weights on days 1 and 3 postpartum using litter size as a covariate did not reveal any significant differences in either of the treated groups when compared to controls. No malformations were noted in any pups in any of the treatment groups. Examination of the sex ratio revealed a significantly larger proportion of males among litters given 1000 mg/kg/day than would be expected. Maternal body weights during the post-partum period were also unaffected when compared to the controls.

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

Effect level:

1 000 mg/kg bw/day

Based on:

test mat.

Sex:

male/female

Basis for effect level:

other: Developmental toxicity

Abnormalities:

not specified

Developmental effects observed:

not specified

None

Conclusions:

In conclusion, oral administration of DOWFAX C6L on days 6 through 15 of gestation at dose levels of 300 and 1000 mg/kg/day produced significant depressions in maternal weight gain during the treatment period, with no significant adverse effects on reproductive parameters in either group. Thus, DOWFAX C6L does not appear to be a selective developmental toxicant even at dose levels producing significant maternal toxicity.

Executive summary:

A Chernoff test was conducted using DOWFAX C6L in which pregnant female Fischer 344 rats were administered dose levels of 0, 300 or 1000 mg/kg/day in deionized water by gavage on days 6 through 15 of gestation. These animals were then allowed to deliver their litters and the litters were evaluated for size, neonatal growth and survival.

Administration of oral doses of 300 or 1000 mg/kg/day of test material during gestation produced significant depression in maternal weight gain at both dose levels. Evaluation of the litters for mean litter size, neonatal growth and survival through the first 3 days post-partum did not reveal any significant adverse effects at either dose level. Thus, DOWFAX C6L did not appear to have a selective developmental toxicity even at dose 1evels producing significant maternal toxicity.

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:

acceptable

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

In two screening studies with shortest and longest alkyl side chained category members, there were no observed effects on fetal or neonatal survival, litter sizes or individual pup appearance at parentally toxic dose levels. Importantly, the developmental toxicity was performed on the DOWFAX C6L ADPODS category member. Oral administration of this substance on days 6 through 15 of gestation at dose levels of 300 and 1000 mg/kg/day produced significant depressions in maternal weight gain during the treatment period, with no significant adverse effects on reproductive parameters in either dose group. Therefore, ADPODS chemistry are not expected to be developmental toxicants, even at dose levels producing significant maternal toxicity. The data from the ADPODS category members are considered sufficient to assess the developmental toxicity of the REACH-registered substance.

 

Based on the lack of developmental toxicity observed in the studies with ADPODS category members, it is argued that Dowfax 3B2 is also not a developmental toxicant.  

Justification for selection of Effect on developmental toxicity: via oral route: 

GLP compliant study for the shortest ADPODS category member.

Justification for classification or non-classification

No CLP classification is required for the reproductive toxicity endpoint for Reaction mass of Disodium decyl(sulphonatophenoxy)benzenesulphonate and Disodium oxybis[decylbenzenesulphonate] based on the category adaptation of this endpoint.