Sodium hydrogen m-sulphonatobenzoate

Endpoint summary

Key value for chemical safety assessment

Toxic effect type:

dose-dependent

Effects on fertility

Description of key information

The toxicity, as well as any possible effects of Sodium 3-sulfobenzoate, when administered by oral route at dose levels of 100, 300 and 1000mg/kg/day, on male and female Sprague Dawley rats on the reproductive performance (such as gonadal function, mating behaviour, conception, development of conceptuses, parturition and lactation) were investigated according to OECD 422.

Males (10/group) were treated for 14 days prior to pairing and during pairing with females until the day before necropsy, for a total of 28/29 days. Females (10/group)were treated for 14 days prior to pairing, during pairing and throughout the gestation and lactation periods until Day 13 post partum, for a total of 51 to 58 days.

The number of females with live pups on Day 14 post partum was: 9 in the control group, 10 in the groups dosed at 100, 300 and 1000 mg/kg/day.

No treatment-related anomalies were noted in the oestrous cycle of the treated females, when compared to controls. Copulatory and fertility indices did not show any treatment related differences among treated and control groups.

Parturition, lactation, implantation, litter data and sex ratio did not show any changes of toxicological relevance.

In conclusion, no signs of treatment-related toxicity were observed following treatment with Sodium 3-sulfobenzoate, when administered to rats by oral route at dose levels of 100, 300 and 1000mg/kg/day, at any of the dose levels investigated.

Based on the results of the present study, the NOAEL (No Observed Adverse Effect Level) for general, reproductive and developmental toxicity was considered to be 1000 mg/kg/day for males and females.

Link to relevant study records

Reference

Reference 1

Endpoint:

screening for reproductive / developmental toxicity

Type of information:

experimental study

Adequacy of study:

key study

Study period:

2019

Reliability:

1 (reliable without restriction)

Rationale for reliability incl. deficiencies:

guideline study

Qualifier:

according to guideline

Guideline:

OECD Guideline 422 (Combined Repeated Dose Toxicity Study with the Reproduction / Developmental Toxicity Screening Test)

Version / remarks:

29 July 2016

Deviations:

yes

Remarks:

Protocol deviations are detailed in section "Principles of method if other than guideline".

Principles of method if other than guideline:

Protocol deviations
An acclimatisation period of 20 days was allowed to animals prior to dosing (not 15 days as indicated in the Study Protocol). Litters from Dam nos. 17, 43 and 79 were observed for sex and presence on Day 14 (prior to necropsy) and not on Day 13 as indicated in the Study Protocol. Equalisation of blood collection was carried out in the males only for coagulation. These deviations are not considered to have compromised the purpose or conduct of the study. No other deviations occurred during the study.

GLP compliance:

yes (incl. QA statement)

Limit test:

no

Justification for study design:

According to ECHA Guidance for the registration of substances in the tonnage band 1-100 t/y, if for the substance no data are available on reproductive toxicity, OECD 422 is the best choice to satisfy the information requirments of Annex VIII of REACH Regulation. The study has been performed in accordance with OECD 422. Doses were selected on the bases of a preliminary study detailed in section 7.8.1. "Preliminary prenatal developmental toxicity" and based on the findings from acute oral toxicity study.

Specific details on test material used for the study:

Specifi details on test material
Alternative names: 3-Sulpho Benzoic Acid Mono Sodium Salt
SBA (3-Sodiosulfobenzoic Acid)
Sodium hydrogen m-sulphonatobenzoate
Label name: 3-Sodiosulfobenzoic Acid
EC number: 241-602-5
CAS number: 17625-03-5
Batch number: 170103
Date of expiry: 14 February 2019
Appearance: White crystalline powder
Storage conditions: Room temperature, protected from moisture

Species:

rat

Strain:

Sprague-Dawley

Details on species / strain selection:

Species and strain are selected according to OECD 422; all details are reported in section "Details on test animals and environmental conditions".

Sex:

male/female

Details on test animals or test system and environmental conditions:

Animal supply and acclimatisation
A total of 102 Hsd: Sprague Dawley SD rats (45 males and 57 virgin females), 6 to 7 weeks old and weighing 175 to 200 g for males and 151 to 175 g for females, were ordered from Charles River Italia S.p.A., Calco (Lecco), Italy.
After arrival the weight range for each sex was determined and the animals were temporarily identified within the cage by means of a coloured mark on the tail. A health check were performed by a veterinarian.
An acclimatisation period of approximately 2 weeks was allowed before the start of treatment, during which time the health status of the animals was assessed by thorough observations. Rats considered unsatisfactory were killed and where appropriate subjected to pathological examination. Unsatisfactory batches of animals were rejected before the start of treatment.

Animal husbandry
The animals were housed in a limited access rodent facility. Animal room controls were set to maintain temperature and relative humidity at 22°C ± 2°C and 55% ± 15% respectively; actual conditions were monitored, recorded and the records retained. There were approximately 15 to 20 air changes per hour and the rooms were lit by artificial light for 12 hours each day.
From arrival to mating, animals were housed up to 5 of one sex to a cage, in polysulfone solid bottomed cages measuring 59.5x38x20 cm (Tecniplast Gazzada S.a.r.l., Buguggiate, Varese). Nesting material was provided inside suitable bedding bags and changed at least twice a week.
During mating, animals were housed one male to one female in clear polysulfone cages measuring 42.5x26.6x18.5 cm with a stainless steel mesh lid and floor (Tecniplast Gazzada S.a.r.l., Buguggiate, Varese). Each cage tray was held absorbent material which was inspected and changed daily.
After mating, the males were re-caged as they were before mating. The females were transferred to individual solid bottomed cages for the gestation period, birth and lactation (measuring 42.5x26.6x18.5 cm). Nesting material was provided inside suitable bedding bags. In addition, suitable nesting material (Scobis 0 Mucedola) was provided as necessary. Nesting material was changed at least 2 times a week.
Drinking water was supplied ad libitum to each cage via water bottles. A commercially available laboratory rodent diet (4 RF 21, Mucedola S.r.l., Via G. Galilei, 4, 20019 Settimo Milanese (MI), Italy) was offered ad libitum throughout the study.
There was no information available to indicate that any non-nutrient substance likely to influence the effect of the test item was present in the drinking water or the diet. Records of analyses of water and diet are kept on file at RTC.
Dated and signed records of activities relating to the day to day running and maintenance of the study in the animal house were be recorded.

Route of administration:

oral: gavage

Vehicle:

CMC (carboxymethyl cellulose)

Remarks:

0.5% aqueous solution of carboxymethyl cellulose.

Details on exposure:

The test item was administered orally by gavage at a dose volume of 10 mL/kg body weight. Control animals recived the vehicle alone at the same dose volume.
The dose was administered to each animal on the basis of the most recently recorded body weight and the volume administered was recorded for each animal.

Details on mating procedure:

Mating was monogamous (one male to one female). Exceptions can arise in the case of occasional deaths of males. A vaginal smear was taken from the day after the start of pairing until positive identification of copulation (sperm identification, vaginal plug in situ or copulation plugs found in the cage tray). The female was paired with the same male until positive identification occurs or 14 days have elapsed.

Analytical verification of doses or concentrations:

yes

Details on analytical verification of doses or concentrations:

Analysis has been performed in a separate study in order to validate the analytical method and the formulation procedure and to verify the stability of the formulations (RTC Study no. A2772).
Samples of the formulations prepared during the current study (the first and the last week of treatment where possible) were analysed to check the homogeneity (in the case of suspensions) and concentration.
Chemical analysis was carried out by the Analytical Chemistry Department at RTC. The software used for this activity was Empower® 2 Build No. 2154.

Duration of treatment / exposure:

Duration of treatment
Animals were dosed once a day, 7 days a week, for a minimum of 2 consecutive weeks prior to pairing and thereafter through the day before necropsy, for a minimum of 28 days.

Males
Dose volumes were adjusted once per week for each animal according to the last recorded body weight.
Animals were dosed once a day, 7 days a week, for a minimum of 2 consecutive weeks prior to pairing and thereafter during pairing, post coitum and post partum periods until Day 13 post partum or the day before sacrifice.

Females
Dose volumes were adjusted once per week for each animal according to the last recorded body weight up to mating.
During the gestation and lactation periods, dose volumes will be calculated according to the last recorded body weight.

Frequency of treatment:

Once a day, 7 days a week.

Details on study schedule:

Stock females
Oestrus cycle was monitored by vaginal smears in all stock females for at least 1 week before allocation in order to exclude from the study females with irregular cycle.

Females allocated to groups
Vaginal smears were taken in the morning from Day 1 of allocation and during treatment period, up to positive identification of mating including not less than 2 weeks before the pairing.
Animals that exhibit irregular cycle were not included in the study.
The vaginal smear data was examined to determine the following:
a) anomalies of the oestrous cycle;
b) pre-coital interval (i.e., the number of nights paired prior to the detection of mating).
Vaginal smears were also be taken from all females, before despatch to necropsy. No vaginal smears were taken from females sacrificed for humane reasons.

Mating
Mating was monogamous (one male to one female). Exceptions can arise in the case of occasional deaths of males. A vaginal smear was taken from the day after the start of pairing until positive identification of copulation (sperm identification, vaginal plug in situ or copulation plugs found in the cage tray).
The female was paired with the same male until positive identification occurs or 14 days have elapsed.

Parturition and gestation length
A parturition check was performed from Day 20 to Day 25 post coitum. Females which do not give birth after 25 days of post coitum period were sacrificed shortly after. Gestation length was calculated as the time between the day of successful mating (Day 0 post coitum) and the day of birth. The day of birth (when parturition is complete) is defined as Day 0 post partum.

Dose / conc.:

0 mg/kg bw/day (actual dose received)

Dose / conc.:

100 mg/kg bw/day (actual dose received)

Dose / conc.:

300 mg/kg bw/day (actual dose received)

Dose / conc.:

1 000 mg/kg bw/day (actual dose received)

No. of animals per sex per dose:

10 male and 10 female.

Control animals:

yes, concurrent vehicle

Details on study design:

Each group was comprise 10 male and 10 female rats. Females were selected on the basis of pre-exposure oestrous cyclicity and animals that fail to exhibit regular cycles were not included in the groups.
The computerised system used in this study was the Xybion Path/Tox System, Version 4.2.2.

The test item was administered orally by gavage at a dose volume of 10 mL/kg body weight. Control animals received the vehicle alone at the same dose volume.
The dose was administered to each animal on the basis of the most recently recorded body weight and the volume administered was recorded for each animal.

Positive control:

Not used.

Parental animals: Observations and examinations:

Mortality
Throughout the study, all animals were checked early in each working day in the morning and in the afternoon. At weekends and Public Holidays a similar procedure was followed except that the final check was carried out at approximately mid-day. This allowed post mortem examinations to be carried out during the working period of that day.
Severely debilitated animals was be observed carefully. Animals judged to be in extremis were killed. A complete necropsy was performed in all cases.

Clinical signs
Once before commencement of treatment and at least once daily during the study, each animal was observed and any clinical signs were recorded.
Observations were performed at the same time interval each day, the interval was selected taking into consideration the presence of post-dose reactions.

Clinical observations (Functional Observation Battery Tests)
Once before commencement of treatment and at least once a week thereafter, each animal was given a detailed clinical examination. Each animal was removed from the home cage and observed in an open arena. The tests included observation of changes in gait and posture, reactivity to handling, presence of clonic or tonic movements, stereotypies or bizarre behaviour and effects on the autonomic nervous system (e.g. lachrymation, piloerection, pupil size, unusual respiratory pattern).
All observations were recorded for individual animals.

Grip strength and sensory reactivity to stimuli
Once during the study, towards the end of treatment (Day 12 post partum for females with viable litters, where possible), 5 males and 5 females were randomly selected from each group for evaluation of sensory reactivity to stimuli of different modalities (e.g. auditory, visual and proprioceptive stimuli) and for assessment of grip strength. Measurements will be performed using a computer generated random order.

Motor activity assessment
Once during the study, towards the end of treatment (on Day 12 post partum for females with viable litters, where possible), 5 males and 5 females were randomly selected from each group and the motor activity measured (for approximately 5 minutes) by an automated activity recording device.

Body weight
Males were weighed weekly from allocation to termination.
Females were weighed weekly from allocation to positive identification of mating and on Days 0, 7, 14 and 20 post coitum. Dams and pups were also be weighed on Days 1, 4, 7 and 13 post partum. Dams were also be weighed just prior to necropsy.

Food consumption
The weight of food consumed by each cage of males and females was recorded weekly (whenever possible) during the pre-mating period starting from allocation. Individual food consumption for the females was measured on Days 7, 14 and 20 post coitum, starting from Day 0 post coitum, and on Day 7 and 13 post partum starting from Day 1 post partum.

Vaginal smears and oestrus cycle

Stock females
Oestrus cycle was monitored by vaginal smears in all stock females for at least 1 week before allocation in order to exclude from the study females with irregular cycle.

Females allocated to groups
Vaginal smears were taken in the morning from Day 1 of allocation and during treatment period, up to positive identification of mating including not less than 2 weeks before the pairing.
Animals that exhibit irregular cycle were not included in the study.
The vaginal smear data was examined to determine the following:
a) anomalies of the oestrous cycle;
b) pre-coital interval (i.e., the number of nights paired prior to the detection of mating).
Vaginal smears were also be taken from all females, before despatch to necropsy. No vaginal smears were taken from females sacrificed for humane reasons.

Mating
Mating was monogamous (one male to one female). Exceptions can arise in the case of occasional deaths of males. A vaginal smear was taken from the day after the start of pairing until positive identification of copulation (sperm identification, vaginal plug in situ or copulation plugs found in the cage tray).
The female was paired with the same male until positive identification occurs or 14 days have elapsed.

Parturition and gestation length
A parturition check was performed from Day 20 to Day 25 post coitum. Females which do not give birth after 25 days of post coitum period were sacrificed shortly after. Gestation length was calculated as the time between the day of successful mating (Day 0 post coitum) and the day of birth. The day of birth (when parturition is complete) is defined as Day 0 post partum.

Pups identification, weight and observation
As soon as possible, after parturition is considered complete (Day 0 post partum), all pups (live and dead) were counted, sexed and live pups were identified.
Live pups were individually weighed on Days 1, 4, 7 and 13 post partum. Pups killed or dying during the lactation period were weighed before the despatch to necropsy.
Observation was performed once daily for all litters.
After culling, all retained pups were sacrificed with the dams on Day 14 post partum.

Culling and pups selection for blood collection (serum hormone) at necropsy
On Day 4 post partum, the size of each litter was adjusted by eliminating extra pups by random selection to yield, as nearly as possible, four pups per sex per litter depending on the normal litter size. Partial adjustment (for example, 5 males and 3 females) is acceptable.
At least one culled male and one culled female were selected for serum hormone determination. If there are insufficient pups in a litter to had two surplus pups (ie: litters with 4 males and 4 females or less) 2 female pups were sacrificed for serum hormone determination in order to retain more male pups for nipple retention on Day 14 post partum. However, retained female pups in each litter should not be below 2. This means that for litters with 4 males and 2 females no pups were selected for hormone determination.

Anogenital distance (AGD)
The AGD of each pup was measured on Day 1 post partum. The AGD was normalized to a measure of pup size, preferably the cube root of body weight collected on Day 1 post partum.

Nipple count
On Day 13 post partum, nipple areolas were counted and recorded, if present, for all live male pups.

Oestrous cyclicity (parental animals):

Vaginal smears and oestrus cycle

Stock females
Oestrus cycle was monitored by vaginal smears in all stock females for at least 1 week before allocation in order to exclude from the study females with irregular cycle.

Females allocated to groups
Vaginal smears were taken in the morning from Day 1 of allocation and during treatment period, up to positive identification of mating including not less than 2 weeks before the pairing.
Animals that exhibit irregular cycle were not included in the study.
The vaginal smear data was examined to determine the following:
a) anomalies of the oestrous cycle;
b) pre-coital interval (i.e., the number of nights paired prior to the detection of mating).
Vaginal smears were also be taken from all females, before despatch to necropsy. No vaginal smears were taken from females sacrificed for humane reasons.

Mating
Mating was monogamous (one male to one female). Exceptions can arise in the case of occasional deaths of males. A vaginal smear was taken from the day after the start of pairing until positive identification of copulation (sperm identification, vaginal plug in situ or copulation plugs found in the cage tray).
The female was paired with the same male until positive identification occurs or 14 days have elapsed.

Parturition and gestation length
A parturition check was performed from Day 20 to Day 25 post coitum. Females which do not give birth after 25 days of post coitum period were sacrificed shortly after. Gestation length was calculated as the time between the day of successful mating (Day 0 post coitum) and the day of birth. The day of birth (when parturition is complete) is defined as Day 0 post partum.

Sperm parameters (parental animals):

Not applicable for OECD 422.

Litter observations:

Pups identification, weight and observation
As soon as possible, after parturition is considered complete (Day 0 post partum), all pups (live and dead) were counted, sexed and live pups were identified.
Live pups were individually weighed on Days 1, 4, 7 and 13 post partum. Pups killed or dying during the lactation period were weighed before the despatch to necropsy.
Observation was performed once daily for all litters.
After culling, all retained pups were sacrificed with the dams on Day 14 post partum.

Culling and pups selection for blood collection (serum hormone) at necropsy
On Day 4 post partum, the size of each litter was adjusted by eliminating extra pups by random selection to yield, as nearly as possible, four pups per sex per litter depending on the normal litter size. Partial adjustment (for example, 5 males and 3 females) is acceptable.
At least one culled male and one culled female were selected for serum hormone determination. If there are insufficient pups in a litter to had two surplus pups (ie: litters with 4 males and 4 females or less) 2 female pups were sacrificed for serum hormone determination in order to retain more male pups for nipple retention on Day 14 post partum. However, retained female pups in each litter should not be below 2. This means that for litters with 4 males and 2 females no pups were selected for hormone determination.

Anogenital distance (AGD)
The AGD of each pup was measured on Day 1 post partum. The AGD was normalized to a measure of pup size, preferably the cube root of body weight collected on Day 1 post partum.

Nipple count
On Day 13 post partum, nipple areolas were counted and recorded, if present, for all live male pups.

Postmortem examinations (parental animals):

Clinical pathology investigations
- Haematology
- Coagulation tests
- Clinical chemistry
- Blood collection and thyroid hormone determination (T3, T4 and TSH)
- Bionalysis - Thyroid hormone determination (T3, T4 and TSH)

Euthanasia
Parental animals and those that have completed the scheduled test period were killed by exsanguination under isofluorane anaesthesia.
Animals sacrificed for humane reasons were killed with carbon dioxide.
Pups killed for humane reasons or those that have completed the scheduled test period (Day 4 or 14 post partum) were euthanized by intraperitoneal injection of Thiopenthal.
The males were killed after the mating of all females or after at least 28 days of treatment period.

Parental males
The females with live pups were killed on Day 14 post partum.

Parental females
The females with total litter loss were killed on the day of the occurrence of total litter loss or shortly after.

The females showing no evidence of copulation were killed after 25 days after the last day of the mating session.
The females which do not give birth were killed on post coitum Day 25 or shortly after.

Other examinations
Blood samples
Blood samples were taken as detailed above.

Necropsy
The clinical history of the males and females of the parental generation was studied and a detailed post mortem examination was conducted (including examination of the external surface and orifices).
Changes were noted, the requisite organs weighed (excluding animals sacrificed for humane reasons or found dead) and the required tissue samples preserved in fixative and processed for histopathological examination.
All females were examined also for the following:

Females
a) number of visible implantation sites (pregnant animals);
b) number of corpora lutea (pregnant animals).
Uteri of females with no visible implantations were immersed in a 10-20% solution of ammonium sulphide to reveal evidence of implantation.
All pups found dead in the cage or sacrificed for humane reasons were examined for external and internal abnormalities.

Postmortem examinations (offspring):

Pups
All culled pups sacrificed at Day 4 post partum were subjected to an external examination. Sex was determined by internal gonads inspection.
All live pups sacrificed at Day 14 post partum were killed and examined for external abnormalities and sex confirmation by gonads inspection.
All pups with abnormalities were retained in 10% neutral buffered formalin.

Statistics:

Standard deviations were calculated as appropriate. For continuous variables the significance of the differences amongst group means were assessed by Dunnett’s test or a modified t test, depending on the homogeneity of data.
Statistical analysis of histopathological findings was carried out by means of the non-parametric Kolmogorov-Smirnov test if n is more than 5.
The non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance was used for the other parameters. Intergroup differences between the control and treated groups wereassessed by the non-parametric version of the Williams test. The criterion for statistical significance was p<0.05.

Reproductive indices:

Males and Females:
- Copulatory Index (%)
- Fertility Index (%)
- Pre- coital Interval (i.e. mean number of days between pairing and mating).

Offspring viability indices:

Females:
- Pre- implantation loss
- Pre-natal loss
- Post natal loss at Day 4 post partum (before culling)
- Post natal loss at Day 13 post partum (after culling)

Sex ratios were calculated at birth and on Day 4 and 14 post partum and were presented as the percentage of males per litter.

Clinical signs:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

No treatment-related clinical signs occurred during the study.

Dermal irritation (if dermal study):

not examined

Description (incidence and severity):

It is not a dermal study.

Mortality:

no mortality observed

Description (incidence):

No mortality occurred during the study.

Body weight and weight changes:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

No significant changes in body weight and body weight gain were observed during the study in the treated animals, when compared to controls.

Food consumption and compound intake (if feeding study):

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

Food consumption was unaffected by treatment in both sexes during the study.

Food efficiency:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

No changes of toxicological relevance were observed during the study in food consumption in either males or females.

Water consumption and compound intake (if drinking water study):

not examined

Description (incidence and severity):

It is not a drinking water study.

Ophthalmological findings:

not examined

Haematological findings:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

No changes were recorded. The decrease of neutrophils recorded in females dosed at 100 mg/kg/day was not dose related, therefore it was considered to be incidental.

Coagulation
Minimal decrease of prothrombin time was recorded in some females dosed at 300 and 1000 mg/kg/day (mean group value was 10% and 7% below controls, respectively). Due to the severity and the direction, this change was considered of no toxicological significance.

No changes of toxicological significance were recorded in haematological parameters and coagulation.

Clinical biochemistry findings:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

Clinical chemistry
Triglycerides were increased in a number of females from all treated groups. Compared with mean control data, this finding was recorded in animal nos. X0760023 (100 mg/kg/day, 3.1 fold), X0760051 (300mg/kg/day, 2.4 fold), X0760055 (300mg/kg/day, 3.7 fold), X0760061 (1000mg/kg/day, 3.7 fold) and X0760063 (1000mg/kg/day, 2.7 fold). Compared with controls, other sporadic changes of some biochemical parameters were recorded in a number of females, such as: increase of aspartate aminotransferase in animal no. X0760031 (100mg/kg/day, 3.5 fold), increase of bile acids in animal nos. X0760051 and X0760063 (300 and 1000mg/kg/day, 2.4 and 3.3 fold, respectively) and decrease of chloride in those receiving 1000mg/kg/day (5%). Due to the slight incidence and/or severity, these findings were considered to be of no toxicological relevance.

Thyroid hormone determination

Parental males
Compared with controls, thyroxine (T4) was increased in males dosed at 100 and 1000mg/kg/day (25% and 37%, respectively) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) was decreased in those receiving 300 and 1000mg/kg/day (48% and 60%).

Pups - Day 14 post partum
No relevant changes were recorded.

Urinalysis findings:

not examined

Behaviour (functional findings):

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

Clinical observations (Functional Observation Battery Tests: removal from the home cage and open arena)
Observation of animals at removal from the cage and in an open arena (neurotoxicity assessment) did not reveal changes attributable to the test item.

Motor activity, Grip strength and sensory reactivity to stimuli
No treatment-related alterations in motor activity, grip strength and sensory reactivity to stimuli were observed in any treatment group at the examination performed at the end of treatment.
Statistically significantly higher landing footsplay was recorded in the females dosed at 100 mg/kg/day, when compared to the control group. Due to the absence of dose-relation, it was considered of no neurotoxicological significance.

Immunological findings:

not examined

Organ weight findings including organ / body weight ratios:

no effects observed

Histopathological findings: non-neoplastic:

effects observed, non-treatment-related

Description (incidence and severity):

No treatment-related changes were noted in animals sacrificed at the end of the treatment period. The apparently increased incidence of inflammatory reaction in the heart noted in the five randomly high dose treated males, after the extension of histopathological evaluation to the remaining control, low, mid- and high dose group males, was seen comparable to control animals.
The remaining lesions reported in control and treated animals were considered to be an expression of spontaneous and/or incidental pathology and/or physiological oestrous cyclic changes, commonly seen in this species and age under our experimental conditions.

Spermatogenic cycle
A detailed qualitative examination of the testes was performed on 5 randomly selected animals in control and high dose groups respectively. The evaluation, taking into account the tubular stages of the spermatogenic cycle, was conducted in order to identify treatment-related effects, such as missing germcell layers or types, retained spermatids, multinucleated or apoptotic germcells and sloughing of spermatogenic cells into the lumen.
Identification of the stages of the spermatogenic cycle was carried out as described by Leblond and Clermont, 1952. The PAS-stained sections were used to identify the spermatogenic stages.
Seminiferous tubules were evaluated with respect to their stage in the spermatogenic cycle and to the integrity of the various cell types within the different stages; regular layering in the germinal epithelium was noted.

Histopathological findings: neoplastic:

no effects observed

Other effects:

no effects observed

Reproductive function: oestrous cycle:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

No treatment-related anomalies were noted in the oestrous cycle and pre-coital interval of the treated females, when compared to controls.
One control female (no. X0760015) did not mate. The number of copulation plugs was similar between control and treated groups.

Reproductive function: sperm measures:

not examined

Description (incidence and severity):

Not applicable for OECD 422.

Reproductive performance:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

Males and females
The copulatory indices were 90% for controls and 100% for animals dosed at 100, 300 and 1000 mg/kg/day.
The fertility indices were 100% for controls and all treated groups.

No effects observer, all details on results will be added as soon as the final report of the study will be available (now, only draft report is available).

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

Effect level:

1 000 mg/kg bw/day (actual dose received)

Based on:

test mat.

Sex:

male/female

Basis for effect level:

histopathology: non-neoplastic

Critical effects observed:

no

Lowest effective dose / conc.:

1 000 mg/kg bw/day (actual dose received)

System:

cardiovascular

Organ:

heart

Clinical signs:

effects observed, non-treatment-related

Description (incidence and severity):

Pallor and small appearance were in general the clinical signs noted in control and treated pups.
There were no treatment-related effects. Pre-weaning clinical signs were comparable between treated and control groups.

Dermal irritation (if dermal study):

not examined

Description (incidence and severity):

It is not a dermal study.

Mortality / viability:

no mortality observed

Description (incidence and severity):

Corpora lutea, implantations and pre-implantation loss, total litter size and pre-natal loss (percentage) did not show dose-related or treatment-related differences. No significant differences in total litter size, live litter size, mean pup loss, sex ratio and
mean pup weights were observed among the treated dams and the controls at birth and on Days 1, 4 and 13 post partum.

Body weight and weight changes:

not examined

Food consumption and compound intake (if feeding study):

not examined

Food efficiency:

not examined

Water consumption and compound intake (if drinking water study):

not examined

Ophthalmological findings:

not examined

Haematological findings:

not examined

Clinical biochemistry findings:

not examined

Urinalysis findings:

not examined

Sexual maturation:

not examined

Anogenital distance (AGD):

effects observed, non-treatment-related

Description (incidence and severity):

Mean anogenital distance (normalised value), performed on Day 1 post partum, showed slight statistically significant increases in males and females from all treated groups when compared to controls. Due to the absence of dose-relation, these changes were considered to be of no toxicological relevance.

Nipple retention in male pups:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

No nipples were observed in male pups.

Organ weight findings including organ / body weight ratios:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

No significant differences were observed in the weight of thyroid in treated pups, when compared to controls.

Gross pathological findings:

not examined

Description (incidence and severity):

Autolysed abdominal and/or thoracic organs were generally observed in pups found dead at birth. No significant findings were seen in pups killed on Days 4 and 14 post partum.

Histopathological findings:

not examined

Other effects:

not examined

Behaviour (functional findings):

not examined

Developmental immunotoxicity:

not examined

Remarks on result:

not determinable due to absence of adverse toxic effects

Reproductive effects observed:

no

Lowest effective dose / conc.:

1 000 mg/kg bw/day (actual dose received)

Treatment related:

no

No mortality occurred and no clinical signs were observed during the study. No signs of neurotoxicity (weekly observations at removal from the cage and in an open arena, alterations in motor activity, grip strength and sensory reactivity to stimuli) were observed during the study in parental males and females. No differences in body weight and food consumption were observed in treated animals, compared to the control group.

No treatment-related changes were observed in haematological (including coagulation) or clinical chemistry parametres. Compared with controls, thyroxine (T4) was increased in males dosed at 100 and 1000 mg/kg/day and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) was decreased in those receiving 300 and 1000 mg/kg/day. Due to the absence of dose-relation, this change was considered of no toxicological relevance. No changes of toxicological relevance were observed in pups at Day 14 post partum determination.

The number of females with live pups on Day 14 post partum was: 9 in the control group, 10 in the groups dosed at 100, 300 and 1000 mg/kg/day.

No treatment-related anomalies were noted in the oestrous cycle of the treated females, when compared to controls. Copulatory and fertility indices did not show any treatment related differences among treated and control groups.

Parturition, lactation, implantation, litter data and sex ratio did not show any changes of toxicological relevance. No significant differences in the anogenital distance (normalised value), were seen between control and treated groups both for male and female pups. No nipples were observed in male pups. Necropsy findings and thyroid weight in pups did not reveal any treatment-related effect.

No treatment-related changes were observed at post mortem in terminal body weight, organs weights and macroscopic observations.

Seminiferous tubules were evaluated with respect to their stage in the spermatogenic cycle and to the integrity of the various cell types within the different stages and a regular layering in the germinal epithelium was described.

Conclusions:

In conclusion, no signs of treatment-related toxicity were observed following treatment with Sodium 3-sulfobenzoate, when administered to rats by oral route at dose levels of 100, 300 and 1000mg/kg/day, at any of the dose levels investigated.
Based on the results of the present study, the NOAEL (No Observed Adverse Effect Level) for general, reproductive and developmental toxicity was considered to be 1000 mg/kg/day for males and females.

Executive summary:

The toxicity, as well as any possible effects of Sodium 3-sulfobenzoate, when administered by oral route at dose levels of 100, 300 and 1000mg/kg/day, on male and female Sprague Dawley rats on the reproductive performance (such as gonadal function, mating behaviour, conception, development of conceptuses, parturition and lactation) were investigated according to OECD 422.

Males (10/group) were treated for 14 days prior to pairing and during pairing with females until the day before necropsy, for a total of 28/29 days. Females (10/group)were treated for 14 days prior to pairing, during pairing and throughout the gestation and lactation periods until Day 13 post partum, for a total of 51 to 58 days.

No mortality occurred and no clinical signs were observed during the study. No signs of neurotoxicity (weekly observations at removal from the cage and in an open arena, alterations in motor activity, grip strength and sensory reactivity to stimuli) were observed during the study in parental males and females. No differences in body weight and food consumption were observed in treated animals, compared to the control group.

No treatment-related changes were observed in haematological (including coagulation) or clinical chemistry parametres. Compared with controls, thyroxine (T4) was increased in males dosed at 100 and 1000 mg/kg/day and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) was decreased in those receiving 300 and 1000 mg/kg/day. Due to the absence of dose-relation, this change was considered of no toxicological relevance. No changes of toxicological relevance were observed in pups at Day 14 post partum determination.

The number of females with live pups on Day 14 post partum was: 9 in the control group, 10 in the groups dosed at 100, 300 and 1000 mg/kg/day.

No treatment-related anomalies were noted in the oestrous cycle of the treated females, when compared to controls. Copulatory and fertility indices did not show any treatment related differences among treated and control groups.

Parturition, lactation, implantation, litter data and sex ratio did not show any changes of toxicological relevance. No significant differences in the anogenital distance (normalised value), were seen between control and treated groups both for male and female pups. No nipples were observed in male pups. Necropsy findings and thyroid weight in pups did not reveal any treatment-related effect.

No treatment-related changes were observed at post mortem in terminal body weight, organs weights and macroscopic observations.

Seminiferous tubules were evaluated with respect to their stage in the spermatogenic cycle and to the integrity of the various cell types within the different stages and a regular layering in the germinal epithelium was described.

In conclusion, no signs of treatment-related toxicity were observed following treatment with Sodium 3-sulfobenzoate, when administered to rats by oral route at dose levels of 100, 300 and 1000mg/kg/day, at any of the dose levels investigated.

Based on the results of the present study, the NOAEL (No Observed Adverse Effect Level) for general, reproductive and developmental toxicity was considered to be 1000 mg/kg/day for males and females.

Reference 2

Endpoint:

reproductive toxicity, other

Remarks:

Preliminary prenatal developmental toxicity study in rats

Type of information:

experimental study

Adequacy of study:

supporting study

Study period:

2018

Reliability:

1 (reliable without restriction)

Rationale for reliability incl. deficiencies:

comparable to guideline study

Qualifier:

no guideline available

Principles of method if other than guideline:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Sodium 3-sulfobenzoate on pregnancy and embryo-foetal development in the rat, following oral administration in order to select the dosages for a main study.
The Sprague Dawley rat was the species and strain of choice because it is accepted by many regulatory authorities and because there are ample experience and background data on this species and strain.
The oral route was selected as it is a possible route of exposure of the test item in man. Dose levels of 50, 150, 500 and 1000 mg/kg/day were selected.

GLP compliance:

yes (incl. QA statement)

Limit test:

no

Justification for study design:

The study has been performed to select the dosages for a main study (i.e. OECD 422). Dose levels used in this study were 50, 150, 500 and 1000 mg/kg/day; these doses have been selected taking into account results of acute oral toxicity study.

Specific details on test material used for the study:

Identity Sodium 3-sulfobenzoate
Alternative names 3-Sulpho Benzoic AcidMono Sodium Salt
SBA (3-Sodiosulfobenzoic Acid)
Sodium hydrogen m-sulphonatobenzoate
Label name 3-Sodiosulfobenzoic Acid
Batch no. 170103
EC no. 241-602-5
CAS no. 17625-03-5
Expiry date 14 February 2019
Appearance White crystalline powder
Storage conditions Room temperature, protected from moisture
RTC number 15432

Species:

rat

Strain:

Sprague-Dawley

Details on species / strain selection:

Sprague Dawley SD virgin female rats, 11-12 weeks old (200-225 g)

Sex:

female

Details on test animals or test system and environmental conditions:

Animal supply and acclimatisation
A total of 50 Sprague Dawley SD virgin female rats, 11-12 weeks old (200-225 g) were ordered from Envigo RMS srl, San Pietro al Natisone (UD), Italy and supplied by Envigo Holland, Kreuzelweg 53, 5961NMHorst, Netherlands. The male rats used were from the same supplier, and were at least 11 weeks old (at least 340 g).
After arrival the weight range was determined and the females were uniquely identified by tattoo on the hind feet. A health check was then performed by a veterinarian.
An acclimatisation period of 20 days was allowed before the start of treatment, during which time the health status of the animals was assessed by thorough observations.

Animal husbandry
The animals were housed in a limited access rodent facility. Animal room controls were set to maintain temperature and relative humidity at 22°C±2°C and 55%±15% respectively; actual conditions were monitored, recorded and the records retained. No relevant deviations from these ranges were recorded during the study. There were approximately 15 to 20 air changes per hour and the rooms were lit by artificial light for 12 hours each day. During the pre-pairing period and after mating, the animals were housed no more than 5 of one sex to a cage, in polysulfone cages measuring 59.5×38×20cm (Tecniplast Gazzada S.a.r.l., Buguggiate, Varese). Nesting material was provided inside suitable bedding bags and changed at least 2 times a week.
During the mating period, the rats were housed on the basis of 1 male to 1 female in clear polysulfone cages measuring 42.5×26.6×18.5cm with a stainless steel mesh lid and floor (Tecniplast Gazzada S.a.r.l., Buguggiate, Varese). Each cage tray held absorbent material which was inspected and changed daily.
Drinking water was supplied ad libitum to each cage via water bottles. A commercially available laboratory rodent diet (4 RF 21, Mucedola S.r.l., Via G. Galilei, 4, 20019, Settimo Milanese (MI), Italy) was offered ad libitum throughout the study.
There was no information available to indicate that any non-nutrient substance likely to influence the effect of the test item was present in the drinking water or the diet. Records of analyses of water and diet are kept on file at RTC.
Dated and signed records of activities relating to the day to day running and maintenance of the study in the animal house were recorded.

Allocation to groups
On the day of allocation (Day 0 post coitum), all females were weighed and allocated to the groups by computerised stratified randomisation to give approximately equal initial group mean body weights. Each female was identified within the study by ear notch and housed no more than 2 to a cage. The cages were identified by a label recording the study number, animal numbers and details of treatment. The arrangement of cages in batteries was such that cages from each treatment group were evenly distributed across the battery to minimise possible environmental effects.

Route of administration:

oral: gavage

Vehicle:

CMC (carboxymethyl cellulose)

Remarks:

The vehicle was 0.5% aqueous solution of carboxymethylcellulose.

Details on exposure:

Formulation procedure
The required amount of Sodium 3-sulfobenzoate was dissolved/suspended in the vehicle. The formulation was prepared daily (concentrations of 5, 15, 50 and 100 mg/mL) and the concentrations were calculated and expressed in terms of test item as supplied.

Administration of test item
The test item was administered orally by gavage at a dose volume of 10 mL/kg body weight. Control animals received the vehicle alone at the same dose volume. The dose was administered to each animal on the basis of the most recently recorded body weight and the volume administered was recorded for each animal.

Details on mating procedure:

Mating procedure
The females were paired with male rats. Females were paired one to one in the home cage of the male and left overnight. Vaginal smears were taken daily in the morning from the day after pairing until a positive identification of mating was made. The day of mating, as judged by the presence of spermin the vaginal smear or by the presence of a copulation plug, was considered as Day 0 of gestation (or Day 0 post coitum). Full mating records were maintained.

Analytical verification of doses or concentrations:

no

Details on analytical verification of doses or concentrations:

Not applicable, since analytical verification has not been performed.

Duration of treatment / exposure:

All animals were dosed once a day from Day 6 through Day 19 post coitum.

Frequency of treatment:

Once a day.

Dose / conc.:

0 mg/kg bw/day

Dose / conc.:

50 mg/kg bw/day

Dose / conc.:

150 mg/kg bw/day

Dose / conc.:

500 mg/kg bw/day

Dose / conc.:

1 000 mg/kg bw/day

No. of animals per sex per dose:

Each group comprised 6 mated female rats.

Control animals:

yes, concurrent vehicle

Details on study design:

Administration of test item
The test item was administered orally by gavage at a dose volume of 10 mL/kg body weight. Control animals received the vehicle alone at the same dose volume. The dose was administered to each animal on the basis of the most recently recorded body weight and the volume administered was recorded for each animal.

Duration of treatment
All animals were dosed once a day from Day 6 through Day 19 post coitum.

In vivo observations
Full records were maintained for all measurements and observations.

Mortality
Throughout the study, all animals were checked early in each working day and again in the afternoon. At weekends and Public Holidays a similar procedure was followed except that the final check was carried out at approximately mid-day.

Clinical signs
All clinical signs were recorded for individual animals. Each animal was observed daily and any clinical signs recorded from allocation until sacrifice.

Body weight
All animals were weighed on Days 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18 and 20 post coitum.

Terminal studies
Euthanasia
All animals were killed with carbon dioxide on Day 20 post coitum and necropsied, supervised by a pathologist.
All foetuses were sacrificed by intraperitoneal injection of Sodium Thiopental followed by hypothermia.

Necropsy
The clinical history of the animals was studied and a detailed post mortem examination was conducted (including examination of the external surface and orifices).
The ovaries and uteri were examined to determine:
– Gravid uterine weight;
– number of corpora lutea;
– number of implantation sites;
– number, sex and weight of all live foetuses;

Positive control:

Not used.

Parental animals: Observations and examinations:

Mortality
Throughout the study, all animals were checked early in each working day and again in the afternoon. At weekends and Public Holidays a similar procedure was followed except that the final check was carried out at approximately mid-day.

Clinical signs
All clinical signs were recorded for individual animals. Each animal was observed daily and any clinical signs recorded from allocation until sacrifice.

Body weight
All animals were weighed on Days 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18 and 20 post coitum.

Sperm parameters (parental animals):

Not determined in this preliminary study.

Litter observations:

All live foetuses were examined externally.
The finding small foetus was classified as: Anomaly (minor abnormalities that are detected relatively frequently).

Postmortem examinations (parental animals):

Necropsy
The clinical history of the animals was studied and a detailed post mortem examination was conducted (including examination of the external surface and orifices).
The ovaries and uteri were examined to determine:
– Gravid uterine weight;
– number of corpora lutea;
– number of implantation sites;
– number, sex and weight of all live foetuses;
– number and sex of dead foetuses (foetuses at termwithout spontaneous movements and breathing);
– number of intra-uterine deaths;
– gross evaluation of placentae.
Intra-uterine deaths were classified as:
– Early resorptions: only placental remnants visible.
– Late resorptions: placental and foetal remnants visible.
Uteri or individual uterine horns without visible implantations were immersed in a 20% solution of ammonium sulphide to reveal evidence of embryonic death at very early stages of implantation.

Postmortem examinations (offspring):

Postmortem examinations of offspring have not been performed.
All live foetuses were examined externally. The finding small foetus was classified as: Anomaly (minor abnormalities that are detected relatively frequently).

Statistics:

For continuous variables the significance of the differences amongst group means was assessed by Dunnett’s test or a modified t test, depending on the homogeneity of data. Statistical analysis of non-continuous variables was carried out by means of the Kruskal-Wallis test and intergroup differences between the control and treated groups assessed by a non-parametric version of theWilliams test.

Reproductive indices:

Not determined.

Offspring viability indices:

Not determined.

Clinical signs:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

No clinical signs were observed in all treated animals during the entire period of the study.

Dermal irritation (if dermal study):

not examined

Description (incidence and severity):

It is not a dermal study.

Mortality:

no mortality observed

Description (incidence):

No animals died during the study.

Body weight and weight changes:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

No relevant differences in body weight and body weight gain were noted between control and treated groups. No differences in terminal body weight and absolute weight gain were observed in treated groups, when compared to the control group.

Food consumption and compound intake (if feeding study):

not examined

Description (incidence and severity):

Food consumption and compound intake have not been determined since it is a preliminary study.

Food efficiency:

not examined

Description (incidence and severity):

Food efficiency has not been determined since it is a preliminary study.

Water consumption and compound intake (if drinking water study):

not examined

Description (incidence and severity):

It is not a drinking water study.

Ophthalmological findings:

not examined

Description (incidence and severity):

Ophthalmological findings have not been determined since it is a preliminary study.

Haematological findings:

not examined

Description (incidence and severity):

Haematolgical findings have not been determined since it is a preliminary study.

Clinical biochemistry findings:

not examined

Description (incidence and severity):

Clinical biochemistry findings have not been determined since it is a preliminary study.

Urinalysis findings:

not examined

Description (incidence and severity):

Urinalysis findings have not been determined since it is a preliminary study.

Behaviour (functional findings):

not examined

Description (incidence and severity):

Behaviour (functional findings) has not been determined since it is a preliminary study.

Immunological findings:

not examined

Organ weight findings including organ / body weight ratios:

effects observed, non-treatment-related

Description (incidence and severity):

Neuropathological findings have not been determined since it is a preliminary study.

Histopathological findings: non-neoplastic:

not examined

Description (incidence and severity):

Histopathological findings, non-neoplastic, have not been determined since it is a preliminary study.

Histopathological findings: neoplastic:

not examined

Description (incidence and severity):

Histopathological findings, neoplastic, have not been determined since it is a preliminary study.

Other effects:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

Other effects not observed.

Reproductive function: oestrous cycle:

not examined

Reproductive function: sperm measures:

not examined

Reproductive performance:

effects observed, non-treatment-related

Description (incidence and severity):

Litter data and sex ratio were not affected by treatment.
Increases in corpora lutea and implantations (statistically significant in mid-low, mid-high and high dose groups) and, consequently, in the total number of viable foetuses (statistically significant in mid-high and high dose groups) were seen in treated groups respect to controls.
As a consequence of the increased litter size, also the litter weight was increased (statistically significant in mid-low, mid-high and high dose groups), however mean foetal weights were comparable between control and treated groups. These changes were considered of no toxicological relevance, since a significance was due to a low mean control value caused by a reduced number of corpora lutea observed in control female no. Y0190001.

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

Effect level:

1 000 mg/kg bw/day

Based on:

test mat.

Sex:

female

Basis for effect level:

reproductive performance

Critical effects observed:

no

Clinical signs:

not examined

Dermal irritation (if dermal study):

not examined

Mortality / viability:

not examined

Body weight and weight changes:

not examined

Food consumption and compound intake (if feeding study):

not examined

Food efficiency:

not examined

Water consumption and compound intake (if drinking water study):

not examined

Ophthalmological findings:

not examined

Haematological findings:

not examined

Clinical biochemistry findings:

not examined

Urinalysis findings:

not examined

Sexual maturation:

not examined

Anogenital distance (AGD):

not examined

Nipple retention in male pups:

not examined

Organ weight findings including organ / body weight ratios:

not examined

Gross pathological findings:

not examined

Histopathological findings:

not examined

Other effects:

not examined

Behaviour (functional findings):

not examined

Developmental immunotoxicity:

not examined

External examination of foetuses:
one entire litter of small foetuses (dam no. Y0190017), one foetus (dam no. Y0190019) in the low dose group and two small foetuses (dam no. Y0190053) in the high dose group were seen at foetus examination and were considered incidental.

Remarks on result:

not measured/tested

Reproductive effects observed:

no

Conclusions:

The effects of Sodium 3-sulfobenzoate during pregnancy and embryo-foetal development were investigated in the Sprague Dawley rat, after oral administration from Day 6 to Day 19 of gestation. Each treatment group comprised 6 mated female rats and received the test item orally at the dose levels of 50, 150, 500 and 1000mg/kg/day.
Neither clinical signs nor significant signs of reaction to treatment were noted in treated females. No differences of toxicological relevance were noted in body weight, gravid uterus weight, litter data and macroscopic observation of treated females, when compared to controls.
On the basis of the above results, it can be concluded that the test item Sodium 3-sulfobenzoate did not induce any toxic effects in dams or foetuses up to and including the high dose tested of 1000 mg/kg/day.

Executive summary:

The effects of Sodium 3-sulfobenzoate were investigated after oral administration in female rats during pregnancy and on embryo-foetal development.

All animals were administered during the gestation period, starting from Day 6 through Day 19 post coitum at doses of 0, 50, 150, 500, 1000 mg/kg bw. The control group animals received 0.5% aqueous solution of carboxymethylcellulose at the same dose volume. Body weight and daily clinical signs were recorded during the in vivo phase. All females were caesarean-sectioned on Day 20 post coitum and subjected to post mortem examination. The number of corpora lutea, implantations, early and late intrauterine deaths, live and dead foetuses and the uterus weight, foetal weight and sex were recorded. All foetuses were examined for external abnormalities.

Neither clinical signs nor significant signs of reaction to treatment were noted in treated females. No differences of toxicological relevance were noted in body weight, gravid uterus weight, litter data and macroscopic observation of treated females, when compared to controls.

On the basis of the above results, it can be concluded that the test item Sodium 3-sulfobenzoate did not induce any toxic effects in dams or foetuses up to and including the high dose tested of 1000 mg/kg/day.

Effect on fertility: via oral route

Endpoint conclusion:

no adverse effect observed

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

1 000 mg/kg bw/day

Study duration:

subacute

Species:

rat

Effect on fertility: via inhalation route

Endpoint conclusion:

no study available

Effect on fertility: via dermal route

Endpoint conclusion:

no study available

Effects on developmental toxicity

Description of key information

The toxicity, as well as any possible effects of Sodium 3-sulfobenzoate, when administered by oral route at dose levels of 100, 300 and 1000 mg/kg/day, on male and female Sprague Dawley rats on the reproductive performance (such as gonadal function, mating behaviour, conception, development of conceptuses, parturition and lactation) were investigated according to OECD 422.

Males (10/group) were treated for 14 days prior to pairing and during pairing with females until the day before necropsy, for a total of 28/29 days. Females (10/group)were treated for 14 days prior to pairing, during pairing and throughout the gestation and lactation periods until Day 13 post partum, for a total of 51 to 58 days.

No changes of toxicological relevance were observed in pups at Day 14 post partum determination. The number of females with live pups on Day 14 post partum was: 9 in the control group, 10 in the groups dosed at 100, 300 and 1000 mg/kg/day.

Parturition, lactation, implantation, litter data and sex ratio did not show any changes of toxicological relevance. No significant differences in the anogenital distance (normalised value), were seen between control and treated groups both for male and female pups. No nipples were observed in male pups. Necropsy findings and thyroid weight in pups did not reveal any treatment-related effect.

No treatment-related changes were observed at post mortem in terminal body weight, organs weights and macroscopic observations.

Seminiferous tubules were evaluated with respect to their stage in the spermatogenic cycle and to the integrity of the various cell types within the different stages and a regular layering in the germinal epithelium was described.

In conclusion, no signs of treatment-related toxicity were observed following treatment with Sodium 3-sulfobenzoate, when administered to rats by oral route at dose levels of 100, 300 and 1000mg/kg/day, at any of the dose levels investigated.

Based on the results of the present study, the NOAEL (No Observed Adverse Effect Level) for general, reproductive and developmental toxicity was considered to be 1000 mg/kg/day for males and females.

Effect on developmental toxicity: via oral route

Endpoint conclusion:

no adverse effect observed

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

1 000 mg/kg bw/day

Study duration:

subacute

Species:

rat

Effect on developmental toxicity: via inhalation route

Endpoint conclusion:

no study available

Effect on developmental toxicity: via dermal route

Endpoint conclusion:

no study available

Justification for classification or non-classification

According to criteria of CLP Regulation the substance is not classified as toxic to reproduction since data obtained from a study performed according to OECD 422 are conclusive but not sufficient for the classification.