Teratogenicity boron

Toxicosis in animals has resulted from ingestion of boric acid or borax solutions, from topical applications of boric acid solutions to damaged skin, and from inhalation of boranes the exact mechanisms of action are not understood. Boron and its compounds are potent teratogens when applied directly to the embryo, bnt there is no evidence of mutagenicity or carcinogenicity. Boron s unique affinity for cancerons tissnes has been exploited in neutron capture radiation therapy of malignant hnman brain tnmors. 

SAFETY PROFILE Poison by intravenous route. Moderately toxic by intraperitoneal route. An experimental teratogen. A skin irritant. When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of boron. See also BORANES and BORON COMPOUNDS. 

Organoboron derivatives, even more than organosilicon compounds, are sensitive to hydrolytic degradation that always leads to the final formation of boric acid. But boric acid has teratogenic properties in chickens. It produces the same malformations as those produced by a riboflavine (vitamin B2) deficiency and the administration of riboflavine prevents these toxic effects. The mechanism by which boric acid produces a deficiency in riboflavine is not known. In man the chronic utilization of boron derivatives results in cases of borism (dry skin, cutaneous eruptions, and gastric troubles). 

Boron occurred at high concentrations in plants, insects, and fishes at KNWR in California - the recipient of contaminated agricultural drainwater - when compared to a nearby control area. Both boric acid and borax produced mortality and teratogenic development when injected into eggs. The effects of boron on waterfowl growth, physiology, and reproduction are discussed later. 

---