Chronic Toxic Effects of BDE-47 in C3H/He Mice Following Oral Exposure.

Abstract

As a persistent organic pollutant (POP), 2,2',4,4'-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47) can accumulate through the food chain and enter the human body. Most existing studies have focused on short-term toxicity, with insufficient understanding of its chronic toxicity. In this study, a 6-month chronic exposure model was established in C3H/He mice via intragastric gavage. Hematological analysis and biochemistry tests were conducted, and organ coefficients along with histopathological changes were analyzed. Additionally, liver ultrasound elastography was assessed. The results showed that BDE-47 could significantly reduce renal index, serum levels of albumin (ALB), triglycerides (TG), and urea (UREA), increase uric acid (UA) levels, cause a dose-dependent decrease in liver elasticity, and lead to hepatic steatosis, atrophy of seminal vesicle epithelium, shedding of spermatogenic cells, and infiltration of splenic macrophages. Collectively, this study has confirmed that BDE-47 has significant chronic toxicity to mammals, providing a new basis for subsequent toxicological research and safety risk evaluation.