Study of carcinogenic effects and cytotoxicity of malathion in mice (invitro & invivo)

Agricultural pesticides including organophosphates cause various adverse effects on body tissues. This study was performed to evaluate the effect of malathion on sex hormones and its carcinogenic effects through skin contact in male mice.

Thirty adult male mice were divided into control and treatment groups. In the treatment group, 1 ppm malathion in 1 ml was poured on the skin for 12 weeks. At the end of the period, serum levels of testosterone, LH, and FSH were measured. Tissue samples were also taken from the target organs. Cytotoxicity was also assessed in vitro using MTT and micronucleus tests and IC50 was determined.

LH hormone did not significantly change by malathion but FSH and testosterone significantly decreased compared to the control group. A mild hepatotoxicity was observed in malathion-treated group. The frequency of micronuclei at concentrations of 25, 50, and100 µg / ml, and the MTT test at concentrations of 10-100 µg / ml showed significant difference compared to control group (p < 0.05).

Skin contact with malathion can have destructive effects on sex hormones and body tissues. Given the excessive use of this insecticide in Iran, it is necessary to pay more attention to how it is used and the amount of human contact with it to prevent possible dangers on body tissues.