2, 5-Hexanedione, reproductive toxicity

Relevant examples of specific metabolism are toxic epoxides of benzene (hemopoietic toxicity), n-hexane 2,5-hexanedione (peripheral neurotoxic effects), metabolites of ethylene glycol efliers (reproductive toxicity), and unidentified metabolites from trichloroethylene (renal-toxic effects). It should be emphasized that only the metabohtes of these solvents are associated with toxic effects. 

Target Organ Toxicity. -Hexane exposure is documented to cause toxicity in peripheral nerves of humans (both sensory and motor). In rats, -hexane exposure causes toxicity in the peripheral and central nervous system and in male reproductive tissues. Effects on respiratory tissue have been observed in mice and rabbits. The toxic agent in nervous system and reproductive tissues is believed to be the -hexane metabolite 2,5-hexanedione (Graham et al. 1995). 

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