Deposition Pattern and Toxicity of Subcutaneously Im planted Uranium Dioxide in Rats

Abstract

We have recently reported that uranium dioxide, being one of the most insoluble uranium compounds, failed to cause animal death after epicutaneous application, whatever the carrier used (Re82). Further studies have demonstrated that, on the contrary, subcutaneous administration of uranium dioxide elicited toxic reactions in laboratory animals. Investigations of the translocation routes, as well as intraorgan pathways and subsequent tissue fixation, seems to be relevant due to frequent accidental occupational contamination, e.g. daily manipulation of uranium dioxide in nuclear-related industries in which workers are frequently in contact with minute quantities of uranium powder. Cellular and subcellular sites of deposition of uranium dioxide in animal tissues are at present poorly described. Identification of these sites is important for better understanding of the cells and tissues at risk after accidental contamination.