Quaternary ammonium compounds, coco alkyltrimethyl, chlorides

Endpoint summary

Key value for chemical safety assessment

Effects on fertility

Description of key information

The study does not need to be conducted because a pre-natal developmental toxicity study is available.

Link to relevant study records

Reference

Endpoint:

screening for reproductive / developmental toxicity

Data waiving:

study scientifically not necessary / other information available

Justification for data waiving:

the study does not need to be conducted because a pre-natal developmental toxicity study is available

Reason / purpose for cross-reference:

data waiving: supporting information

Effect on fertility: via oral route

Endpoint conclusion:

no study available

Effect on fertility: via inhalation route

Endpoint conclusion:

no study available

Effect on fertility: via dermal route

Endpoint conclusion:

no study available

Additional information

 

The study does not need to be conducted because a pre-natal developmental toxicity study is available.

 

The biocide assessment report available from RMS Italy on TMAC C, assessed the endpoint based on a study submitted on TMAC C by Lonza Cologne GmbH and read across to DDAC and C12-16 ADBAC submitted byAkzo Nobel Surface Chemistry AB (now Nouryon).

 

No reproductive effects were observed in thetwo-generation study submitted by Lonza. The NOAEL based on general toxicity (reduced weight gain in adults and pups) was established at 750 mg/kg feed, corresponding to at least 40 mg/kg bw/day. The read across 2-generation studies with DDAC and C12-16 ADBAC also did not reveal any reproductive toxicity at doses that were devoid of general toxicity. The lowest NOAEL for general toxicity was 600 mg/kg feed, equal to at least 32 mg/kg bw/day (DDAC) and 250 mg/kg feed, equal to at least 16 mg/kg bw/day (C12-16 ADBAC), both based on reduced weight gain. No effects on reproduction parameters were observed with either compounds up to 1600 mg/kg feed and 1000 mg/kg feed in the respective studies (NOAELs = 89 mg/kg bw/day (DDAC); 96 mg/kg bw/day (C12-16 ADBAC)). It was concluded that overall the available studies and the read across with other quaternary ammonium compounds DDAC and C12-16-BKC show no specific potential for reproductive toxicity and the overall NOAEL (parental effects) is at least 16 mg/kg bw/day (250 mg/kg feed) (ECHA biocides assessment report, 2016).

 

Nevertheless, due to the absence of specific reproductive toxicity and the fact that the observed effects in parents relate to general toxicity which is secondary to local effects, the parental NOAELs (16 mg/kg bw/day) were not considered to be relevant to the determination of systemic DNELs.  

Effects on developmental toxicity

Description of key information

The available oral and dermal pre-natal development toxicity study with the test and read across substances in rats and rabbits, indicate no concern for development toxicity.

Link to relevant study records

Reference

Reference 1

Endpoint:

developmental toxicity

Type of information:

read-across based on grouping of substances (category approach)

Adequacy of study:

weight of evidence

Study period:

1979

Reliability:

2 (reliable with restrictions)

Rationale for reliability incl. deficiencies:

study well documented, meets generally accepted scientific principles, acceptable for assessment

Justification for type of information:

Refer to the Quaternary ammonium salts (QAS) category or section 13 of IUCLID for details on the category justification.

Reason / purpose for cross-reference:

read-across source

Qualifier:

equivalent or similar to guideline

Guideline:

OECD Guideline 414 (Prenatal Developmental Toxicity Study)

Deviations:

yes

Remarks:

No macroscopic or microscopic examination of sacrificed dams

GLP compliance:

no

Limit test:

no

Species:

rabbit

Strain:

New Zealand White

Route of administration:

oral: gavage

Vehicle:

water

Remarks:

deionised

Details on exposure:

Range-Finding Study: Three mated female rabbits per group were exposed to the test substance orally at doses of 0, 25, 50, 100, 200 or 400 mg/kg/day for days 6 through 18 of pregnancy.
Definitive Study: Thirteen or 14 mated female rabbits per group were exposed to the test substance orally at doses of 0, 2, 8 and 24 mg/kg/day for days 6 through 18 of gestation. The control group was treated with deionized water only.

Analytical verification of doses or concentrations:

not specified

Duration of treatment / exposure:

Days 0- 29 of gestation

Frequency of treatment:

once a day

Duration of test:

28 d

Dose / conc.:

2 mg/kg bw/day

Remarks:

0.35 mg a.i./kg bw/day

Dose / conc.:

8 mg/kg bw/day

Remarks:

1.4 mg a.i./kg bw/day

Dose / conc.:

24 mg/kg bw/day

Remarks:

8.4 mg a.i./kg bw/day

No. of animals per sex per dose:

13 female rabbits per dose

Control animals:

yes

Maternal examinations:

Range-finding study: Body weights were determined on days 0, 6, 11, 17 and 29. Food consumption was measured daily.
Definitive study: Animals were observed daily for signs of toxicity. Body weights were taken every three days during pregnancy. Food consumption was measured daily. All surviving dams were sacrificed at study termination on gestation day 29 using sodium pentobarbital.

Ovaries and uterine content:

Range-finding study: Uterine disposition of young was recorded, and corpora lutea and resorptions sites were counted.
Definitive study: An examination of the uterus, including the number corpora lutea, implantations, and resorptions was conducted. Uteri from females that appeared non-gravid were placed in 10% ammonium sulfide solution for confirmation of pregnancy.

Fetal examinations:

Range-finding study: Animals found dead were necropsied; survivors were sacrificed on day 29 of gestation and fetuses were weighed and examined microscopically.
Definitive study: At sacrifice fetuses were weighed, and examined externally for defects. Sex determination also was conducted on each fetus. Two thirds of the fetuses were examined for skeletal and 1/3 were examined for visceral abnormalities.

Statistics:

None

Clinical signs:

no effects observed

Dermal irritation (if dermal study):

not examined

Mortality:

no mortality observed

Body weight and weight changes:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

No difference of growth curve of treated groups compared to controls was observed.

Food consumption and compound intake (if feeding study):

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

No difference of growth curve of treated groups compared to controls was observed.

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

Behaviour (functional findings):

not examined

Immunological findings:

not examined

Gross pathological findings:

not examined

Neuropathological findings:

not examined

Histopathological findings: non-neoplastic:

not examined

Histopathological findings: neoplastic:

not examined

Details on results:

Range-Finding Study: Morality occurred in the dams as follows: 1/3, 1/3, 2/3, 3/3, and 3/3 for the 25, 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg/day groups, respectively. A decrease in body weight was observed at 50 and 100 mg/kg/day. Apparent resorptions occurred in the two surviving females at 50 mg/kg/day but the intercurrent mortality was considered to prohibit definitive judgment on a direct effect of the test substance on maintenance of pregnancy.
Definitive Study: No effects related to treatment were observed at the doses used in this study.

Number of abortions:

no effects observed

Early or late resorptions:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

The rate of resorptions was considered low and comparable in all groups.

Dead fetuses:

no effects observed

Details on maternal toxic effects:

Range-Finding Study: Apparent resorptions occurred in the two surviving females at 50 mg/kg/day but the intercurrent mortality was considered to prohibit definitive judgment on a direct effect of the test substance on maintenance of pregnancy.
Definitive Study: No effects related to treatment were observed at the doses used in this study.

Key result

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

Effect level:

24 mg/kg bw/day

Based on:

test mat.

Basis for effect level:

other: No effects were observed at highest test dose

Remarks on result:

other:

Remarks:

NOAEL 8.4 mg a.i./kg bw/day

Key result

Abnormalities:

no effects observed

Fetal body weight changes:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

no effects observed

Reduction in number of live offspring:

no effects observed

Changes in sex ratio:

no effects observed

External malformations:

no effects observed

Skeletal malformations:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

Incidence in treated groups were comparable to controls.

Visceral malformations:

no effects observed

Details on embryotoxic / teratogenic effects:

Range-Finding Study: An indirect embryotoxic effect based on fetal body weight was considered to have been exhibited at 50 mg/kg/day.
Definitive Study: No effects on any parameters were attributed to treatment with the test substance.

Key result

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

Effect level:

ca. 24 mg/kg bw/day

Based on:

test mat.

Sex:

male/female

Basis for effect level:

other: No effects were observed at highest test dose

Remarks on result:

other: NOAEL: 8.4 mg a.i./kgbw/day

Key result

Abnormalities:

no effects observed

Key result

Developmental effects observed:

no

Lowest effective dose / conc.:

24 mg/kg bw/day

Treatment related:

no

Conclusions:

Under study conditions, the NOAEL of the read across substance for maternal and embryotoxic effects/teratogenicty was determined to be 24 mg/kg bw/day (i.e., equivalent to 8.4 mg a.i./kg bw/day)

Executive summary:

A study was conducted to determine the teratogenicity of read across substance, C12-14 TMAC (35% active in dobanol 45E7), according to the method comparable to OECD 414. Based on the results of a range-finding study, thirteen or 14 mated female rabbits per group were exposed to the read across substance orally at doses of 0, 2, 8 and 24 mg/kg bw/day (i.e., 0.35, 1.4 and 8.4 mg a.i./kg bw/day) during gestation period 6 to 18. The control group was treated with deionized water only. Animals were observed daily for signs of toxicity. Body weights were taken every three days during pregnancy. Food consumption was measured daily. All surviving dams were sacrificed at study termination on gestation Day 29 using sodium pentobarbital. An examination of the uterus, including the number corpora lutea, implantations, and resorptions was conducted. Uteri from females that appeared non-gravid were placed in 10% ammonium sulfide solution for confirmation of pregnancy. At sacrifice fetuses were weighed and examined externally for defects. Sex determination also was conducted on each fetus. Two thirds of the fetuses were examined for skeletal and 1/3 were examined for visceral abnormalities. No significant maternal or fetal effects related to treatment were observed at the tested doses. Under study conditions, the NOAEL of read across substance for maternal and embryotoxic effects/teratogenicty was determined to be 24 mg/kg bw/day (i.e., equivalent to 8.4 mg a.i./kg bw/day) (TRS (HPV), 2001). Based on the results of the read across study, similar absence of development effects can be expected for the test substance.

Reference 2

Endpoint:

developmental toxicity

Type of information:

read-across based on grouping of substances (category approach)

Adequacy of study:

weight of evidence

Study period:

From 19 March 2020 to 07 August 2020

Reliability:

1 (reliable without restriction)

Rationale for reliability incl. deficiencies:

guideline study

Justification for type of information:

Refer to the Quaternary ammonium salts (QAS) category or section 13 of IUCLID for details on the category justification.

Reason / purpose for cross-reference:

read-across source

Qualifier:

according to guideline

Guideline:

OECD Guideline 414 (Prenatal Developmental Toxicity Study)

Version / remarks:

25 June 2018

Deviations:

no

GLP compliance:

yes

Limit test:

no

Species:

rat

Strain:

Sprague-Dawley

Details on test animals or test system and environmental conditions:

Animal supply and acclimatisation
A total of 120 Crl:CD Sprague Dawley (SD) virgin female rats, 9 weeks old (200-225 g) were supplied and received from Charles River Italia S.p.A., Calco (Lecco), Italy. A first batch of 100 females arrived on March 5, 2020 and a second batch of 20 females arrived on March 12, 2020. The male rats used for mating were from the same supplier, and were at least 11 weeks old (at least 350 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 18 days for the first batch of animals and 11 days for the second batch was allowed before the start of treatment, during which time the health status of the animals was assessed by thorough observations.

Animal husbandry
The rats 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 deviations from these ranges were recorded during the study. There were approximately 15-20 air changes per hour and the rooms were lit by artificial light for 12 hours each day. Before mating for all animals and after mating for males, the animals were housed no more than 5 of one sex to a cage in clear polysulfone cages measuring 59.5 38 20 cm (Tecniplast Gazzada S.a.r.l., Buguggiate, Varese); 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. During the mating period, one male rat was housed with one female rat in clear polysulfone cages measuring 42.5 26.6 18 cm (Tecniplast Gazzada S.a.r.l., Buguggiate, Varese) with a stainless steel mesh lid and floor. Each cage tray held absorbent material which was inspected and changed daily. After mating, the mated females were housed individually in clear polysulfone cages meas- uring 42.5 26.6 18 cm (Tecniplast Gazzada S.a.r.l., Buguggiate, Varese); 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. The certificate of analysis of the nesting material used was kept with study raw data. 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 ERBC. The certificate of the diet used was kept with study raw data. Dated and signed records of activities relating to the day to day running and maintenance of the study in the animal house were recorded.

Route of administration:

oral: gavage

Vehicle:

water

Remarks:

softened water (by reverse osmosis)

Details on exposure:

All animals were administered the test substance by oral gavage during the gestation period, starting from Day 3 through Day 19 post coitum at the doses of 0, 18.75, 37.5, 75 mg/kg bw/day (25 animals in each group).

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 (SOP ANI/105) to give approximately equal initial group mean body weights. Each female was identified within the study by ear notch and housed individually. The cages were identified by a label recording the study number, animal number 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.

Analytical verification of doses or concentrations:

yes

Details on analytical verification of doses or concentrations:

The analytical method was validated in ERBC Study no. A3762 in the range from 1 to 10 mg/mL. The proposed preparation procedure for the test substance was checked in the range from 1 to 10 mg/mL by chemical analysis (concentration and homogeneity) in ERBC Study no. A3762 to confirm that the method was suitable. Final results for all levels were within the acceptability limits stated in ERBC SOPs for concentration (85-115%) and homogeneity (CV < 10%). In the same study (ERBC Study no. A3762) and in the same range of concentration, the stability of the preparations was verified and the final results were as follows: (a) at 28 hours at room temperature (b) at 10 day stability at 2-8°C. Samples of the preparations prepared on Week 1 and Last week of treatment were analysed to check the homogeneity and concentration. Chemical analysis was carried out by the Analytical Chemistry Department. Results of the analyses were within the acceptability limits stated in ERBC SOPs for suspensions (85-115% for concentration and CV <10% for homogeneity). The validated software used for this activity was Empower® 2 Build No. 2154.

Details on mating procedure:

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 sperm in 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.

Duration of treatment / exposure:

All animals were dosed once a day from Day 3 through Day 19 post coitum

Frequency of treatment:

Once a day

Remarks:

0, 18.75, 37.5, 75 mg/kg bw/day
The required amount of test substance was suspended in the vehicle. The preparations were made at up to 8- day intervals (concentrations of 1.875, 3.75 and 7.5 mg/mL). Concentrations were calculated and expressed in terms of test substance corrected for purity.

No. of animals per sex per dose:

Each group comprised 25 mated female rats

Control animals:

yes

Maternal examinations:

Throughout the study, all animals were checked for mortality early in the morning 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. All clinical signs were recorded for individual animals. Each animal was observed daily and any clinical signs recorded starting from allocation until sacrifice. All animals were weighed on Days 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18 and 20 post coitum. Food consumption was measured on Days 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18 and 20 post coitum starting from Day 0 post coitum. On Day 20 post coitum, blood samples for thyroid hormones determination (T3, T4 and TSH) (approximately 0.5 mL), were collected, randomizing (equalised) between treatment groups, from the sublingual vein of all females, under slight isoflurane anaesthesia. Samples were assayed to determine the serum levels of Total triiodothyronine (total T3), Total thyroxine (total T4) and Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) by RadioImmunoAssay (RIA). As a part of the terminal sacrifice procedure, blood samples for haematological investigations were withdrawn from the abdominal vena cava, of all females, under isoflurane anaesthesia, and collected in tubes with EDTA anticoagulant.

All animals were killed by exanguination under isoflurane anaesthesia on Day 20 post coitum. All animals were subjected to necropsy, supervised by a pathologist. From all animals completing the scheduled test period, the thyroid was dissected free of fat, fixed and preserved in 10% neutral buffered formalin. The thyroid weight was determined after fixation. The ratio of thyroid weight to body weight was calculated for each animal. After dehydration and embedding in paraffin wax, sections of the thyroid tissue were cut at 5 micrometre thickness and stained with haematoxylin and eosin. Sections were examined for evaluation of pathological changes in all groups.

Ovaries and uterine content:

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 term without 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.

Fetal examinations:

All live foetuses were examined externally. In addition, the anogenital distance (AGD) was recorded in all male and females foetuses. Approximately one-half of the foetuses (i.e., routinely, every second live foetus) in each litter were preserved in Bouin’s solution for subsequent fixed-visceral examination. The remaining foetuses were eviscerated after which the carcasses were fixed in 95% (v/v) ethanol for subsequent skeletal (single staining) examination. Skeletal and fixed-visceral examinations were performed in all groups. In both cases, sex was confirmed by internal inspection of the gonads.

Structural deviations were classified as follows:

Malformations
Major abnormalities that are rare and/or affect the survival or health of the species under investigation.

Anomalies
Minor abnormalities that are detected relatively frequently.

Variants
A change that occurs within the normal population under investigation and is unlikely to adversely affect survival or health. This might include a delay in growth or morphogenesis that would have otherwise followed a normal pattern of development.

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 the Williams test.

Indices:

Group mean values for body weight and food consumption of pregnant females, gravid uterus weight, organ weight, absolute weight gain (terminal body weight minus body weight at Day 0 post coitum minus gravid uterus), litter size, intra-uterine deaths, corpora lutea count, number of implantations, total implantation loss, pre- and post-implantation loss, sex ratio, anogenital distance, haematology and thyroid hormone determination were calculated. Data from non-pregnant animals were not included in group mean calculations of maternal body weight.

Sex ratios of the foetuses were calculated as the percentage of males. The anogenital distance (AGD) was calculated as normalized to the cube root of body weight measured on Day 20 post coitum. All derived values (e.g., means, percentages, ratios) first were calculated within the litter and the group values derived as a mean of individual litter values. Foetal structural deviations were expressed as the percentage of affected foetuses relative to all foetuses examined per group, as well as in terms of the mean litter percentage of affected litters.

Historical control data:

The AGD values range of laboratory historical control data were 1.70 - 3.74 mm/g1/3 for males and 0.96 - 3.00 mm/g1/3 for females.

Clinical signs:

effects observed, treatment-related

Description (incidence and severity):

Piloerection was the treatment-related clinical sign observed in all treated groups with a dose related incidence: 6 out 25 in Group 2 (18.75 mg/kg bw/day), 17 out of 25 in Group 3 (37.5 mg/kg bw/day) and 23 out of 25 in Group 4 (75 mg/kg bw/day). In Group 4 (75 mg/kg bw/day) this sign was accompanied by hunched posture in a few females. The onset of these signs was on Day 5 post coitum in Group 4 and on Day 7 post coitum in Groups 2 and 3. Minor signs, such as hairloss and damaged ear were sporadically recorded during the study and were considered as incidental.

Mortality:

no mortality observed

Description (incidence):

No animals died during the study.

Body weight and weight changes:

effects observed, treatment-related

Description (incidence and severity):

A statistically significant decrease (up to -6%) in body weight was observed in females receiving 75 mg/kg bw/day (Group 4) on Days 9, 12 and 20 post coitum. Body weight gain was statistically significantly reduced in Group 4 relative to the control group on two occasions, Days 6 and 20 post coitum. However, values between Days 9 and 18 were comparable to control. Body weight and body weight gain in females receiving 18.75 mg/kg bw/day (Group 2) and 37.5 mg/kg bw/day (Group 3) were comparable to the controls.

Food consumption and compound intake (if feeding study):

effects observed, treatment-related

Description (incidence and severity):

Statistically significant reduction in food consumption was observed in females receiving 75 mg/kg/day (Group 4) starting from Day 6 post coitum (approximately -29%) through Day 15 post coitum (approximately -8%). No differences were recorded on Day 18 post coitum and again a slight decrease was recorded on Day 20 post coitum (approximately -20%). No differences in food consumption were noted in females of Group 3, compared to controls. The statistically significant decrease (approximately -7%) in food consumption noted in females of Group 2 on one occasion was not considered of toxicological relevance.

Haematological findings:

effects observed, treatment-related

Description (incidence and severity):

An increase of polychromatophil erythrocytes was observed in the peripheral blood smears of a number of animals of all treated groups. This finding was dose-related in the incidence. Due to the dose-relation observed between groups, the relation with the test item cannot be definitively excluded, even if there were no indications of an effect of the test item on the bone marrow or other tissues/organs. Considering that: (a) no haematological findings were observed (e.g. anaemia) (b) no changes were recorded during the in-vivo phase or at post-mortem examination (c) no treatment-related effects were observed in previous studies (https://echa.europa.eu/it/registration-dossier/-/registered-dossier/14219/7/6/2), the increase of polychromatophil erythrocytes alone was considered to be not adverse.

In addition, monocytes group mean data were statistically significantly higher than controls in females dosed at 75 mg/kg/day (30%). Since the increase of monocytes is usually associated with chronic inflammation/necrosis and no related findings were recorded (e.g. lymphocytosis), and similar monocytes values were found in two control females, the above increase of monocytes was considered to be incidental.

No differences in haematology parameters were noted in females receiving 18.75 mg/kg/day (Group 2) and 37.5 mg/kg/day (Group 3), compared to controls.

Clinical biochemistry findings:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

No differences between control and treated females were recorded in thyroid hormone.

Organ weight findings including organ / body weight ratios:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

There was no effect on the thyroid weight at any dose levels, compared to the control group.

Gross pathological findings:

no effects observed

Histopathological findings: non-neoplastic:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

No treatment-related changes were noted in thyroid gland of females receiving Cetrimonium chloride at low, medium and high dose.

Details on results:

Statistically significant reductions in terminal body weight (approximately -6%) and gravid uterus weight (-11%), associated with reduction (-29%) in absolute weight gain (terminal body weight minus body weight at Day 0 post coitum minus gravid uterus), were seen in females receiving 75 mg/kg/day (Group 4), compared to controls. No differences in these parameters were noted in females receiving 18.75 mg/kg/day (Group 2) and 37.5 mg/kg/day (Group 3), compared to controls.

Number of abortions:

no effects observed

Pre- and post-implantation loss:

no effects observed

Total litter losses by resorption:

no effects observed

Early or late resorptions:

no effects observed

Dead fetuses:

no effects observed

Changes in pregnancy duration:

no effects observed

Changes in number of pregnant:

no effects observed

Other effects:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

No differences in the uterine deaths (early, late and total) were observed.

Details on maternal toxic effects:

No mortality occurred during the study. During the in-life phase, maternal toxicity was noted in females receiving 75 mg/kg bw/day, as indicated by the clinical signs and the reduction in the absolute weight gain. The slight and occasionally decrease of body weight, body weight gain,food consumption, terminal body weight, gravid uterus weight and mean foetal weight were not considered of toxicological relevance since all these findings were of low magnitude and did not affect the pregnancy and developmental outcomes thus, they were considered not adverse. At macroscopic observations, no relevant changes that could be considered treatment- related were recorded. Polychromasia detected at haematology investigation was considered to be not adverse, even though the relation with the test item cannot be excluded. No differences between control and treated females were recorded in thyroid hormones determination, thyroid weight and thyroid histopathology. No difference considered treatment related was noted in the mean values of the anogenital distance of foetuses of both sexes maternally exposed at all dose levels compared to the control group. On the basis of the above results, it can be concluded that the dosage of 75 mg/kg bw/day induced slight maternal toxicity with no adverse effect on pregnancy. The dosages of 37.5 mg/kg bw/day and 18.75 mg/kg bw/day were well tolerated. The NOAEL for maternal toxicity was considered to be 75 mg/kg bw/day.

Key result

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

Effect level:

ca. 75 mg/kg bw/day (actual dose received)

Based on:

act. ingr.

Basis for effect level:

other: all parameters

Remarks on result:

other: only slight maternal toxicity with no adverse effect on pregnancy

Remarks:

the effects were either toxicologically not relevant (e.g., decrease of body weight, body weight gain, food consumption, terminal body weight, gravid uterus weight and mean foetal weight) due to their low magnitude of change

Key result

Abnormalities:

no effects observed

Fetal body weight changes:

effects observed, treatment-related

Description (incidence and severity):

A statistically significant decrease was noted in the mean foetal weight, for each sex (approximately -4 and -5% for females and males respectively), as well as for both sexes combined (approximately-4%). However, considering that the value were within the range of our historical control data and considering dering the limited magnitude of the difference, the finding was not considered to be toxicologically relevant.

Reduction in number of live offspring:

no effects observed

Changes in sex ratio:

no effects observed

Changes in litter size and weights:

not specified

Changes in postnatal survival:

not specified

External malformations:

effects observed, non-treatment-related

Description (incidence and severity):

A total of 14 small foetuses (< 2.7 g) were detected, 9 out of 356 in the control group, 1 out of 322 in the low dose group, 1 out of 354 in the mid-group and 3 out of 346 in the high dose group. One foetus in the mid-dose group had alterations classified as malformations: imperforate anus and absence of tail (acaudia).

Skeletal malformations:

effects observed, non-treatment-related

Description (incidence and severity):

Malformations were detected in control and in treated groups without dose relationship, in terms of foetuses and litters affected, as reported in attached results tables in attached background material section of the IUCLID. The other alterations (anomalies and variations) were seen in treated and control foetuses with similar incidence and/or without dose relationship. The type and distribution of mentioned findings, both for major and minor alterations, were considered incidental and not treatment-related.

Visceral malformations:

effects observed, non-treatment-related

Description (incidence and severity):

Malformations were detected in mid- and high dose groups as reported in attached results tables in attached background material section of the IUCLID. A total of two foetuses showed malformations: heart ventricle enlarged extreme was observed in one foetus maternally exposed at 37.5 mg/kg bw/day (Group 3) and extremely enlarged ureter in association with kidney pelvic dilatation extreme in one foetus maternally exposed at 75 mg/kg bw/day (Group 4). These findings were considered incidental since they were seen in single foetuses from different litters and their incidence was lower when compared with laboratory historical control data. The other alterations (anomalies and variations) recorded were noted both in control and treated groups, with a quite similar incidence.

Other effects:

effects observed, non-treatment-related

Description (incidence and severity):

Statistically significant differences in AGDwere noted in male foetuses of mid- and high dose groups (approximately + 0.8% and + 3%, respectively) and in female foetuses of low and mid- dose groups (approximately -4% and -2.7%, respectively), compared to the control. Considering that the AGD reflects the prenatal androgenic exposure, with values physiologically higher in males than in females, the decrease observed in female foetuses represents a trend towards feminisation (reduction in AGD of females) and is not considered an adverse effect (i.e. an increase in AGD of females, suggesting masculinisation). The same applies to the increase observed in males, that also represents a trend towards masculinisation (increase in AGD of males) and is not considered an adverse effect (i.e. decrease in AGD of males, suggesting feminisation). Thus, these differences were considered incidental and non-adverse effects.

Details on embryotoxic / teratogenic effects:

The slight decrease noted in the mean foetal weight, for each sex as well as for both sexes combined, was not considered toxicologically relevant, considering the limited entity of the differences compared to control. The alterations noted at external, skeletal and visceral examinations of foetuses were con- sidered incidental and not treatment-related since they were quantitatively similar between control and treated groups with an absence of doses-related response. Based on these results, the NOAEL for developmental toxicity was considered to be 75 mg/kg bw/day.

Key result

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

Effect level:

ca. 75 mg/kg bw/day (actual dose received)

Based on:

act. ingr.

Sex:

male/female

Basis for effect level:

other: all parameters

Remarks on result:

other: effects were either toxicologically not relevant (decrease in foetal weight) or incidental and not treatment related (skeletal and visceral examinations)

Key result

Abnormalities:

effects observed, non-treatment-related

Key result

Developmental effects observed:

no

Table 15: Skeletal examination of foetuses

Organ	Malformation	Groups (mg/kg/day)
		1 (0)	2 (18.75)	3 (37.5)	4 (75)
Pelvic girdle	Pubis not ossified	4(2)	3(2)	-	-
	Ischium not ossified	-	1(1)	-	-
Skull	Presphenoid not ossified	2(2)	3(2)	1(1)	4(2)
	Squamosal abnormal shape	-	-	-	1(1)
	Cleft palate	-	1(1)	-	-
Forelimbs	Radius, ulna and humerus misshaped	-	-	1(1)	-
Ribs	Fused	-	-	2(1)	-
Thoracic vertebrae	Haemivertebra	-	-	1(1)
	Absence of thoracic arch	-	-	1(1)
		Foetus (litter)

Table 16: Visceralexaminationoffoetuses

Organ	Malformation	Groups (mg/kg/day)
		1 (0)	2 (18.75)	3 (37.5)	4 (75)
Heart	Ventricle enlarged extreme	-	-	1(1)	-
Kidney/Ureter	Pelvic dilatation extreme/Enlarged extreme	-	-	-	1(1)
Foetus (Litter)

For other result tables, kindly refer to the attached background material section of the IUCLID.

Conclusions:

Based on the results of the read across study, the NOAEL for maternal and developmental toxicity was determined to be 75 mg/kg bw/day.

Executive summary:

A study was conducted to determine the developmental toxicity potential of read across substance C16 TMAC (purity: 98.5%), using prenatal developmental toxicity oral gavage study in female Sprague Dawley rats, according to the OECD Guideline 414, in compliance with GLP. All animals were administered the read across substance during the gestation period, starting from Day 3 through Day 19 post coitum at the doses of 0, 18.75, 37.5, 75 mg/kg bw/day (25 animals in each group). Body weight, daily clinical signs and food consumption were recorded during the in vivo phase. All females were caesarean-sectioned on Day 20 post coitum and subjected to post-mortem examination. Blood collection for haematology and hormone determination, in association with determination of the thyroid weight from all females was performed on Day 20 post coitum. The number of corpora lutea, implantations, early and late intrauterine deaths, live and dead foetuses, uterus weight, foetal weight and sex were recorded. All foetuses were examined for external abnormalities. The anogenital distance (AGD) in all live foetuses was recorded. Approximately one half of the foetuses in each litter was examined for fixed-visceral and skeletal abnormalities. No animals died during the study. A total of three females were found not pregnant at necropsy: one in the control group, one in the low dose group (18.75 mg/kg bw/day) and one in the mid-dose group (37.5 mg/kg bw/day). One low dose female had unilateral implantation in the left horn and was not pregnant in the right one. The number of females with live foetuses on Day 20 post-coitum was: 24 in the control, low and mid-dose groups and 25 in the high dose group (75 mg/kg bw/day). Piloerection was the treatment-related clinical sign observed in all treated groups with a dose-related incidence. In Group 4 this sign was accompanied by hunched posture in few females. Minor signs, such as hair-loss and damaged ear were sporadically recorded during the study and were considered incidental. The slight statistically significant decreases in body weight observed in females of Group 4 was not considered of toxicological relevance due to the limited magnitude of the change. These changes were considered related to treatment, but not adverse. Statistically significant reduction in food consumption was observed in females of Group 4 starting from Day 6 post coitum through Day 15 post coitum. No differences were recorded on Day 18 post coitum and again a slight decrease was recorded on Day 20 post coitum. This change was considered not relevant because there was a recovery between the start and the end of treatment. The polychromasia observed in all treated groups was considered to be not adverse, even though the relation with the read across substance cannot be excluded. Monocytosis observed in females dosed at 75 mg/kg bw/day was considered to be incidental. The increase of polychromatic cells in the peripheral blood smear even when the reticulocyte count is normal could suggests the premature release of erythroid cells from a marrow that is not hyperactive. Considering that: (a) no haematological findings were observed (e.g. anaemia) (b) no changes were recorded during the in-vivo phase or at post-mortem examination (c) no treatment-related effects were observed in previous studies (https://echa.europa.eu/it/registration-dossier/-/registered-dossier/14219/7/6/2). There were no indications of an effect of the read across substance on the bone marrow or other tissues/organs which could led to an increase of the polychromatic cells, therefore this finding was considered to be not adverse. Due to the dose-relation observed between groups, the relation with the read across substance cannot be definitively excluded. In thyroid hormone determination, no differences between control and treated females were recorded. There was no effect on the thyroid weight at any dose levels, compared to the control group. Statistically significant reductions in terminal body weight, gravid uterus weight and absolute weight gain (terminal body weight minus body weight at Day 0 post coitum minus gravid uterus), seen in females of Group 4, compared to controls were considered not adverse due to the limited magnitude of the change. No differences of toxicological relevance were noted in litter data and sex ratio. Statistically significant differences were noted in AGD of male foetuses of mid and high dose groups and in female foetuses of low and mid-dose groups, compared to the control. Considering that the AGD reflects the prenatal androgenic exposure, with values physiologically higher in males than in females, the increase observed in male foetuses represents a trend towards masculinisation (increase in AGD of males) and is not considered an adverse effect (i.e. decrease in AGD of males, suggesting feminisation). The same applies to the decrease observed in females, that also represents a trend towards feminisation (reduction in AGD of females) and is not considered an adverse effect (i.e. an increase in AGD of females, suggesting masculinisation). Thus, these differences were considered incidental and non-adverse effects. Furthermore, the AGD values were within the range of laboratory historical control data. At post-mortem, no treatment-related macroscopic changes were noted at low, medium and high dose. In microscopic examination, no treatment-related changes were noted in thyroid gland of females at low, medium and high dose. In external examination, small foetuses (<2.7 g) were present both in control and treated groups without a dose-relationship. One foetus in the mid-dose group had alterations classified as malformations: imperforate anus and absence of tail. These findings was considered unrelated to the read across substance. In skeletal examination, malformations were detected in control and in treated groups without dose-relationship, in terms of foetuses and litters affected. The major and minor alterations detected at skeletal examination were considered incidental since they were quantitatively similar between groups or occurred in small foetuses (<2.7 g). In visceral examination, malformations were observed in one foetus of Group 3 and in one foetus of Group 4 (extremely enlarged ureter in association with kidney pelvic dilatation extreme). These findings were considered incidental since they were seen in single foetuses from different litters without a dose relationship, therefore a treatment-related effect is unlikely. The other alterations (anomalies and variations) recorded were noted both in control and treated groups, with a similar incidence. Overall, the study investigator concluded that the dosage of 75 mg/kg bw/day read across substance induced slight maternal toxicity without adverse effects on pregnancy and developmental outcome. The dosages of 37.5 mg/kg bw/day and 18.75 mg/kg bw/day were well tolerated. The NOAEL for maternal toxicity could be considered at 75 mg/kg bw/day. No differences of toxicological relevance were observed between control and treated groups in the foetal development. The major and minor alterations noted at external, skeletal and visceral examinations of foetuses were considered incidental and not treatment-related since they were quantitatively similar between control and treated groups with an absence of dose-related response. Under the study conditions, the NOAEL for maternal and developmental toxicity was determined to be 75 mg/kg bw/day (Liberati, 2020). Based on the results of the read across study, similar NOAELs can be considered for the test substance.

Reference 3

Endpoint:

developmental toxicity

Type of information:

read-across based on grouping of substances (category approach)

Adequacy of study:

weight of evidence

Study period:

1985

Reliability:

2 (reliable with restrictions)

Rationale for reliability incl. deficiencies:

study well documented, meets generally accepted scientific principles, acceptable for assessment

Justification for type of information:

Refer to the Quaternary ammonium salts (QAS) category or section 13 of IUCLID for details on the category justification.

Reason / purpose for cross-reference:

read-across source

Qualifier:

equivalent or similar to guideline

Guideline:

OECD Guideline 414 (Prenatal Developmental Toxicity Study)

Deviations:

yes

Remarks:

short exposure time i.e., on gestation Days 7-18 only

Principles of method if other than guideline:

Pre-natal development toxicity of the test substance was evaluated in rabbits following 2-h daily topical exposure at concentrations of 0.5-2% during GD 7-18.

GLP compliance:

yes

Limit test:

no

Species:

rabbit

Strain:

New Zealand White

Route of administration:

dermal

Vehicle:

water

Details on exposure:

TEST SITE:
Shaved dorsal area.

REMOVAL OF TEST SUBSTANCE
- Washing (if done): Rinsed with water and dried.
- Time after start of exposure: 2 h.

TEST MATERIAL
- Amount(s) applied (volume or weight with unit): 2 mL/kg
- Concentration (if solution): 0, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0%

Analytical verification of doses or concentrations:

not specified

Duration of treatment / exposure:

Days 7 - 18 of gestation.

Frequency of treatment:

Once daily (2 hours).

Duration of test:

Days 0 - 29 of gestation.

Remarks:

Concentrations: 0, 0.5, 1.0, or 2.0% (i.e., equivalent to 0, 10, 20 and 40 mg/kg bw/day, respectively)

No. of animals per sex per dose:

20 pregnant females per dose.

Control animals:

yes, concurrent vehicle

Maternal examinations:

Dams were observed twice daily for signs of toxicity, including skin irritation from Days 7 through 29. Body weights were taken on gestation Days 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27 and 29. Individual food consumption was measured daily. A gross necropsy was conducted on dams that died in an attempt to determine the cause of death. All surviving dams were sacrificed at study termination on gestation Day 29. An examination of the uterus (including the number and location of live and dead foetuses, early and late resorptions, and implantation sites) and ovaries (including the number of corpora lutea) was conducted. Following removal of the foetuses the abdominal and thoracic cavities and organs of the dams were examined. Uteri from females that appeared non-gravid were placed in 10% ammonium sulphide solution for confirmation of pregnancy.

Ovaries and uterine content:

The ovaries and uterine content was examined after termination: Yes
Examinations included:
- Number of corpora lutea: Yes
- Number of implantations: Yes
- Number of early resorptions: Yes
- Number of late resorptions: Yes

Fetal examinations:

- External examinations: Yes
- Soft tissue examinations: Yes
- Skeletal examinations: Yes

Statistics:

Body weight changes and food consumption and number of early and late resorptions, dead foetuses, total implantations, corpora lutea, skeletal abnormalities, and mean fetal body weight were compared by analysis of variance (Bartlette's). If variance was not significant, then treatment-control comparisons were made using the least significant difference (LSD) criterion. If variance was significant, then comparison was made using the t-test for unequal variances and the Wilcoxon, Mann-Whitney rank sum test. Additionally, a regression and lack of fit were performed on each of these parameters. The number of pregnancies per group, the percentage of skeletal abnormalities and soft tissue malformations were analysed by Fisher's exact test.

Clinical signs:

no effects observed

Dermal irritation (if dermal study):

effects observed, treatment-related

Description (incidence and severity):

Skin irritation was observed at all doses with the severity and duration of erythema, oedema, desquamation, atonia and coriaceousness increased in a dose-dependent manner.

Mortality:

mortality observed, non-treatment-related

Description (incidence):

Two control, one intermediate and one high dose doe died during the study. The cause of death could not be determined. Two of the does that died aborted prior to death (one control and one intermediate dose group animal).

Body weight and weight changes:

no effects observed

Food consumption and compound intake (if feeding study):

no effects observed

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

Behaviour (functional findings):

not examined

Immunological findings:

not examined

Organ weight findings including organ / body weight ratios:

no effects observed

Gross pathological findings:

effects observed, treatment-related

Description (incidence and severity):

A slight increase in congested lungs was observed for the high dose group at necropsy.

Neuropathological findings:

not examined

Histopathological findings: non-neoplastic:

no effects observed

Histopathological findings: neoplastic:

not examined

Number of abortions:

effects observed, non-treatment-related

Description (incidence and severity):

Two additional abortions occurred, one each in the intermediate and high dose groups. None of these deaths or abortions were considered related to test substance toxicity.

Pre- and post-implantation loss:

no effects observed

Total litter losses by resorption:

no effects observed

Early or late resorptions:

no effects observed

Dead fetuses:

no effects observed

Changes in pregnancy duration:

not examined

Changes in number of pregnant:

not examined

Details on maternal toxic effects:

Maternal toxic effects: no test substance related significant effects.

Key result

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

Remarks:

systemic toxicity

Effect level:

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

Based on:

act. ingr.

Basis for effect level:

other: no significant treatment-related maternal toxic effects were observed up to the highest tested dose.

Key result

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

Remarks:

developmental toxicity

Effect level:

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

Based on:

act. ingr.

Basis for effect level:

other: no significant treatment-related foetal development effects were observed up to the highest tested dose.

Key result

Abnormalities:

no effects observed

Fetal body weight changes:

not examined

Reduction in number of live offspring:

no effects observed

Changes in sex ratio:

not examined

Changes in litter size and weights:

no effects observed

Changes in postnatal survival:

not examined

External malformations:

no effects observed

Skeletal malformations:

no effects observed

Visceral malformations:

no effects observed

Details on embryotoxic / teratogenic effects:

Embryotoxic / teratogenic effects: no effects
Details on embryotoxic / teratogenic effects: The incidence of foetal malformations, as well as genetic and developmental variations in the treated groups were comparable to that of the control group.

Key result

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

Remarks:

general toxicity

Effect level:

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

Based on:

act. ingr.

Sex:

male/female

Basis for effect level:

other: no effects observed up to the highest dose tested

Key result

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

Remarks:

developmental toxicity

Effect level:

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

Based on:

act. ingr.

Sex:

male/female

Basis for effect level:

other: no developmental effects observed up to the highest dose tested

Key result

Abnormalities:

no effects observed

Key result

Developmental effects observed:

no

Conclusions:

Under the study conditions, the NOAEL of the read across substance for maternal as well as developmental toxicity was established at 40 mg a.i./kg bw/day in rabbits.

Executive summary:

A study was conducted to determine the developmental toxicity / teratogenicity of the read across substance, C16 TMAC (25% active in water), according to a method similar to OECD Guideline 414, in compliance with GLP. This experiment was performed in New Zealand White rabbits. Twenty mated female rabbits per group were exposed topically (daily for 2 h) from Days 7 to 18 of gestation at concentrations of 0, 0.5, 1.0, or 2.0% (equivalent to 0, 10, 20 and 40 mg a.i./kg bw/day, respectively). The control group was treated with deionised water only. Clinical condition and reactions to treatment were recorded at least once daily. Body weights were recorded on Days 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27 and 29 of gestation. All surviving females were sacrificed on Day 29 of gestation and the foetuses were removed by caesarean section. At necropsy the females were examined macroscopically. Live foetuses were weighed, sexed and were examined for visceral and skeletal abnormalities. Two control animals, one intermediate and one high dose died during the study. Two of the rabbits that died, aborted prior to death (one control and one intermediate dose). Two additional abortions occurred, one each in the intermediate and high dose groups. Deaths or abortions were not considered to be related to the read across substance. No treatment-related maternal body weight or food intake effects were noted. The incidence of foetal malformations, as well as genetic and developmental variations in the treated groups was comparable to that of the control group. No other treatment-related effects were noted. Under the study conditions, the NOAEL of the read across substance for maternal as well as developmental toxicity was established at 40 mg a.i./kg bw/day in rabbits (TRS (HPV), 2001). Based on the results of the read across study, similar absence of development effects can be expected for the test substance.

Reference 4

Endpoint:

developmental toxicity

Type of information:

read-across based on grouping of substances (category approach)

Adequacy of study:

supporting study

Study period:

1983

Reliability:

2 (reliable with restrictions)

Rationale for reliability incl. deficiencies:

comparable to guideline study with acceptable restrictions

Justification for type of information:

Refer to the Quaternary ammonium salts (QAS) category or section 13 of IUCLID for details on the category justification.

Reason / purpose for cross-reference:

read-across source

Qualifier:

equivalent or similar to guideline

Guideline:

OECD Guideline 414 (Prenatal Developmental Toxicity Study)

GLP compliance:

no

Limit test:

no

Species:

rat

Strain:

other: Strain: CFY

Details on test animals or test system and environmental conditions:

- Four groups (caged individually)
- Temperature: 20°C +/- 2°C, Relative humidity: 55 +/- 10%
- 12/12 hours dark/light
-Free access to food (Spratts Laboratory Animals Diet No 1) and tp water

Route of administration:

dermal

Vehicle:

other: distilled water

Details on exposure:

On Days 4 or 5 of pregnancy, an area (4x4 cm) of fur in the scapular region was removed by electric clippers. (Shaving was repeated when necessary but no depilatory agents were used). Dosing started on Day 6 and continued up to and including Day 15 of gestation. On each day, the test substance was applied to the shaved area at the rate of 0.5 mL/rat, and at a speed minimising 'run off' into surrounding fur. The exposed area was neither washed nor occluded at any time.

Analytical verification of doses or concentrations:

yes

Remarks:

no further details

Duration of treatment / exposure:

From Gestation Day 6 to 15

Frequency of treatment:

each day

Dose / conc.:

0 other: %

Remarks:

corresponding to 0 mg/kg bw/day

Dose / conc.:

0.9 other: %

Remarks:

corresponding to 18 mg/kg bw/day

Dose / conc.:

1.5 other: %

Remarks:

corresponding to 30 mg/kg bw/day

Dose / conc.:

2.5 other: %

Remarks:

corresponding to 50 mg/kg bw/day

No. of animals per sex per dose:

20

Control animals:

yes, concurrent vehicle

Details on study design:

Concentrations: 0.0, 0.9, 1.5, and 2.5% in distilled water administered per 0.5 mL/rat/day (2 mL/kg bw/day for a weight of ca. 250g).

Maternal examinations:

Signs of systemic reaction and local reaction of the exposed area of skin (scores: 1-4): daily.
Body weights: on Days 1, 3, 6, 10, 17, and 20 of pregnancy.
Food and water consumption: at regular intervals throughout the study.

Ovaries and uterine content:

On Day 20 of pregnancy:
- congenital abnormalities and macroscopic pathological changes in maternal organs
- ovaries and uteri: number of corpora lutea, number/distribution of live young and embryo/foetal deaths (early and late, stages of implantation) and post implantation loss ((No. of implantations - No. of live young) x 100 / No. of implantations)

Fetal examinations:

On Day 20 of pregnancy:
- litter weight from which the mean pup weight was calculated, foetal abnormalities (external and internal + classification) and post implantation loss ((No. of implantations - No. of live young) x 100 / No. of implantations)
- sex determination

Statistics:

- Group mean values were calculated from individual litter values and, where expressed as a percentage, were calculated as the mean of the percentages within individual litters (and not from group totals for foetuses)
- Non-parametric methods (analysis of litter and abnormalities), analysis of variance (body weight, food or water consumption), and Kruskal-Wallis test (where significant heterogenicity was recorded)

Clinical signs:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

No systemic signs of reaction

Dermal irritation (if dermal study):

effects observed, treatment-related

Description (incidence and severity):

- In terms of incidence of animals affected, and degree of reaction.
- In all cases, initial reaction was evident within a day of the first administration. It reached a peak of severity around the mid point of the dosing period, and stabilized or showed a decline thereafter. This phenomenon was frequently associated with scab formation.
- Local reactions (erythema and oedema).

Mortality:

no mortality observed

Body weight and weight changes:

no effects observed

Food consumption and compound intake (if feeding study):

no effects observed

Food efficiency:

not examined

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

no effects observed

Ophthalmological findings:

not examined

Haematological findings:

not examined

Clinical biochemistry findings:

not examined

Urinalysis findings:

not examined

Behaviour (functional findings):

not examined

Immunological findings:

not examined

Organ weight findings including organ / body weight ratios:

not examined

Gross pathological findings:

not examined

Neuropathological findings:

not examined

Histopathological findings: non-neoplastic:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

no macroscopic pathological changes in internal organs

Histopathological findings: neoplastic:

not examined

Number of abortions:

no effects observed

Pre- and post-implantation loss:

no effects observed

Total litter losses by resorption:

no effects observed

Early or late resorptions:

no effects observed

Dead fetuses:

no effects observed

Changes in pregnancy duration:

not examined

Changes in number of pregnant:

not examined

Other effects:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

No differences in the number of corpora lutea were recorded.

Details on maternal toxic effects:

Only dermal irritation was observed

Key result

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

Remarks:

systemic effect

Effect level:

50 mg/kg bw/day (nominal)

Based on:

test mat.

Basis for effect level:

other: overall no systemic toxicity except "dermal irritation"

Key result

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

Remarks:

local effect

Effect level:

18 mg/kg bw/day (nominal)

Based on:

test mat.

Basis for effect level:

dermal irritation

Key result

Abnormalities:

effects observed, treatment-related

Localisation:

other: dermal

Description (incidence and severity):

- In terms of incidence of animals affected, and degree of reaction.
- In all cases, initial reaction was evident within a day of the first administration. It reached a peak of severity around the mid point of the dosing period, and stabilized or showed a decline thereafter. This phenomenon was frequently associated with scab formation.
- Local reactions (erythema and oedema).

Fetal body weight changes:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

The mean foetal weight was not modified by the treatment

Reduction in number of live offspring:

no effects observed

Changes in sex ratio:

not examined

Changes in litter size and weights:

no effects observed

Description (incidence and severity):

The litter weight was not modified by the treatment

Changes in postnatal survival:

not examined

External malformations:

no effects observed

Skeletal malformations:

no effects observed

Visceral malformations:

no effects observed

Details on embryotoxic / teratogenic effects:

In all groups, the incidence of affected litters and foetuses was within the limits of historical control values. The types of malformations or anomaly observed were compatible with the types of abnormality recorded among concurrent or historical control vlaues and there was no unusual clustering of a particular type of abnormality in any one test group.

Key result

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

Effect level:

50 mg/kg bw/day (nominal)

Based on:

test mat.

Basis for effect level:

other: no effects

Key result

Abnormalities:

no effects observed

Key result

Developmental effects observed:

no

Conclusions:

Under the study conditions, a dermal application of the read across substance did not induce toxic effects on dams or foetuses, except for a local irritation (erythema and oedema) on the skin of pregnant animals. The maternal NOAELs (systemic and local) were therefore established at 50 and 18 mg/kg bw/day, respectively. The developmental NOAEL was determined at 50 mg/kg bw/day.

Executive summary:

A study was conducted to determine the developmental toxicity of the test substance, C18 TMAC (98.8% purity), according to a method similar to OECD Guideline 414. Pregnants rats were exposed dermally to the test substance from Day 6 to Day 15 of gestation. Volumes of 0.5 mL were applied on shaved skin. The concentrations of the test substance ranged from 0.0 to 2.5% (i.e., corresponding to 0, 18, 30 and 50 mg/kg bw/day). Signs of systemic reaction and local reaction of the exposed area of skin were assessed on a daily basis. Body weights were recorded on Days 1, 3, 6, 10, 17, and 20 of pregnancy. Food and water consumption were measured at regular intervals throughout the study. On Day 20 of pregnancy, congenital abnormalities and macroscopic pathological changes in maternal organs as well as in ovaries and uteri (number of corpora lutea, number/distribution of live young and embryo/foetal deaths (early and late, stages of implantation)) and post implantation loss were evaluated. Litter weights (from which the mean pup weight was calculated), foetal abnormalities (external and internal), and sex determination were also recorded on Gestation Day 20. Under the study conditions, a dermal application of the test substance did not induce toxic effects on dams or foetuses, except for a local irritation (erythema and oedema) on the skin of pregnant animals. The maternal NOAELs (systemic and local) were therefore established at 50 and 18 mg/kg bw/day, respectively. The developmental NOAEL was determined at 50 mg/kg bw/day (Palmer, 1983). Based on the results of the read across study, similar absence of development effects can be expected for the test substance.

Effect on developmental toxicity: via oral route

Endpoint conclusion:

no adverse effect observed

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

75 mg/kg bw/day

Study duration:

subacute

Experimental exposure time per week (hours/week):

168

Species:

rat

Quality of whole database:

Recent guideline compliant study

Effect on developmental toxicity: via inhalation route

Endpoint conclusion:

no study available

Effect on developmental toxicity: via dermal route

Endpoint conclusion:

no adverse effect observed

Dose descriptor:

NOAEL

40 mg/kg bw/day

Study duration:

subacute

Species:

rabbit

Quality of whole database:

Similar to guideline compliant studies available with the read across substances

Additional information

Oral:  

Study 1:  A study was conducted to determine the developmental toxicity potential of C16 TMAC (purity: 98.5%), using prenatal developmental toxicity oral gavage study in femaleSprague Dawley rats, according to the OECD Guideline 414, in compliance with GLP. All animals were administered the test substance during the gestation period, starting from Day 3 through Day 19 post coitum at the doses of 0, 18.75, 37.5, 75 mg/kg bw/day (25 animals in each group). Body weight, daily clinical signs and food consumption were recorded during the in vivo phase. All females were caesarean-sectioned on Day 20 post coitum and subjected to post-mortem examination. Blood collection for haematology and hormone determination, in association with determination of the thyroid weight from all females was performed on Day 20 post coitum. The number of corpora lutea, implantations, early and late intrauterine deaths, live and dead foetuses, uterus weight, foetal weight and sex were recorded. All foetuses were examined for external abnormalities. The anogenital distance (AGD) in all live foetuses was recorded. Approximately one half of the foetuses in each litter was examined for fixed-visceral and skeletal abnormalities.

No animals died during the study. A total of three females were found not pregnant at necropsy: one in the control group, one in the low dose group (18.75 mg/kg bw/day) and one in the mid-dose group (37.5 mg/kg bw/day). One low dose female had unilateral implantation in the left horn and was not pregnant in the right one. The number of females with live foetuses on Day 20 post-coitum was: 24 in the control, low and mid-dose groups and 25 in the high dose group (75 mg/kg bw/day). Piloerection was the treatment-related clinical sign observed in all treated groups with a dose-related incidence. In Group 4 this sign was accompanied by hunched posture in few females. Minor signs, such as hair-loss and damaged ear were sporadically recorded during the study and were considered incidental. The slight statistically significant decreases in body weight observed in females of Group 4 was not considered of toxicological relevance due to the limited magnitude of the change. These changes were considered related to treatment, but not adverse. Statistically significant reduction in food consumption was observed in females of Group 4 starting from Day 6 post coitum through Day 15 post coitum. No differences were recorded on Day 18 post coitum and again a slight decrease was recorded on Day 20 post coitum. This change was considered not relevant because there was a recovery between the start and the end of treatment. The polychromasia observed in all treated groups was considered to be not adverse, considering that (a) no haematological findings were observed (e.g. anaemia) (b) no changes were recorded during the in-vivo phase or at post-mortem examination (c) no treatment-related effects were observed in existing repeated dose studies (see section 5.6 of the CSR) or other development toxicity studies (see below summaries). However, a relation with the test substance could not be excluded. Monocytosis observed in females dosed at 75 mg/kg/day was considered to be incidental. In thyroid hormone determination, no differences between control and treated females were recorded. There was no effect on the thyroid weight at any dose levels, compared to the control group. Statistically significant reductions in terminal body weight, gravid uterus weight and absolute weight gain (terminal body weight minus body weight at Day 0 post coitum minus gravid uterus), seen in females of Group 4, compared to controls were considered not adverse due to the limited magnitude of the change. No differences of toxicological relevance were noted in litter data and sex ratio. Statistically significant differences were noted in male foetuses of mid and high-dose groups (approximately + 0.8% and + 3%, respectively) and in female foetuses of low and mid-dose groups (approximately -4% and -2.7%, respectively), compared to the control. Considering that the anogenital distance (AGD) reflects the prenatal androgenic exposure, with values physiologically higher in males than in females, the increase observed in male foetuses represents a trend towards masculinisation (increase in AGD of males) and is not considered an adverse effect (i.e. decrease in AGD of males, suggesting feminisation). The same applies to the decrease observed in females, that also represents a trend towards feminisation (reduction in AGD of females) and is not considered an adverse effect (i.e. an increase in AGD of females, suggesting masculinisation). Thus, these differences were considered incidental and non-adverse effects. Furthermore, the AGD values are within the range of the CRO’s historical control data (1.70 - 3.74mm/g1/3 for males and 0.96 - 3.00mm/g1/3 for females).

At post-mortem, no treatment-related macroscopic changes were noted at low, medium and high dose. In microscopic examination, no treatment-related changes were noted in thyroid gland of females at low, medium and high dose. In external examination, small foetuses (<2.7 g) were present both in control and treated groups without a dose-relationship. One foetus in the mid-dose group had alterations classified as malformations: imperforate anus and absence of tail. These findings was considered unrelated to the test substance. In skeletal examination, malformations were detected in control and in treated groups without dose-relationship, in terms of foetuses and litters affected. The major and minor alterations detected at skeletal examination were considered incidental since they were quantitatively similar between groups or occurred in small foetuses (<2.7 g). In visceral examination, malformations were observed in one foetus of Group 3 and in one foetus of Group 4 (extremely enlarged ureter in association with kidney pelvic dilatation extreme). These findings were considered incidental since they were seen in single foetuses from different litters without a dose relationship, therefore a treatment-related effect is unlikely. The other alterations (anomalies and variations) recorded were noted both in control and treated groups, with a similar incidence.

Overall, the study investigator concluded that the dosage of 75 mg/kg bw/day test substance induced slight maternal toxicity without adverse effects on pregnancy and developmental outcome. The dosages of 37.5 mg/kg bw/day and 18.75 mg/kg bw/day were well tolerated. The NOAEL for maternal toxicity could be considered at 75 mg/kg bw/day. No differences of toxicological relevance were observed between control and treated groups in the foetal development. The major and minor alterations noted at external, skeletal and visceral examinations of foetuses were considered incidental and not treatment-related since they were quantitatively similar between control and treated groups with an absence of dose-related response. Under the study conditions, the NOAEL for maternal and developmental toxicity was determined to be 75 mg/kg bw/day (Liberati, 2020).

Study 2:A study was conducted to determine the teratogenicity of read across substance, C12-14 TMAC (35% active in dobanol 45E7), according to the method comparable to OECD 414. Based on the results of a range-finding study, thirteen or 14 mated femaleNew Zealand Whiterabbitsper group were exposed to the read across substance orally at doses of 0, 2, 8 and 24 mg/kg bw/day (i.e., 0.35, 1.4 and 8.4 mg a.i./kg bw/day) during gestation period 6 to 18. The control group was treated with deionized water only. Animals were observed daily for signs of toxicity. Body weights were taken every three days during pregnancy. Food consumption was measured daily. All surviving dams were sacrificed at study termination on gestation Day 29 using sodium pentobarbital. An examination of the uterus, including the number corpora lutea, implantations, and resorptions was conducted. Uteri from females that appeared non-gravid were placed in 10% ammonium sulfide solution for confirmation of pregnancy. At sacrifice fetuses were weighed and examined externally for defects. Sex determination also was conducted on each fetus. Two thirds of the fetuses were examined for skeletal and 1/3 were examined for visceral abnormalities. No significant maternal or fetal effects related to treatment were observed at the tested doses. Under study conditions, the NOAEL of read across substance for maternal and embryotoxic effects/teratogenicity was determined to be 24 mg/kg bw/day (i.e., equivalent to 8.4 mg a.i./kg bw/day) (TRS (HPV), 2001). Based on the results of the read across study, similar absence of development effects can be expected for the test substance. 

Further, another pre-natal study with laurtrimonium chloride (C12 TMAC) was reported in Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) report on trimoniums (Becker, 2012). This study was conducted to evaluate the development toxicity potential of the read across substance, C12 TMAC, in New Zealand White rabbits. In a range finding study, three pregnant rabbits per group were orally administered at dose levels of 0, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg bw/day during gestation period 6-18. At 25 and 50 mg/kg bw/day, 1 in 3 rabbits died; at 100 mg/kg bw/day, 2 rabbits died; and at 400 mg/kg bw/day, all 3 rabbits died. There were embryonic effects (not defined) observed at 50 mg/kg bw/day. In the main study, 13-14 pregnant New Zealand White rabbits per group were orally administered 0, 2, 8, 24 mg/kg bw/day doses of C12 TMAC during gestation period 6-18. The dams were killed on Day 19 and necropsied. There were no adverse effects reported for the dams and no developmental or teratogenic effects observed (Becker, 2012).

The biocide assessment report available from RMS Italy on the test substance, TMAC C, assessed the endpoint based on the above study with C12-14 TMAC (Fave 1980), TMAC C and DDAC and C12-16 ADBAC submitted by Lonza Cologne GmbH and Akzo Nobel Surface Chemistry AB (now Nouryon). It was concluded that the available studies with the read across quaternary ammonium compounds, show no specific potential for reproductive or developmental toxicity in rats or rabbits. Based on the Lonza studies, the maternal NOAELs in rats (based on TMAC C) and rabbits (based on DDAC) were both reported to be at 1 mg/kg bw/day and the developmental NOAELs were at 20 mg/kg bw/day and 3 mg/kg bw/day respectively. Based on the studies submitted by Akzo Nobel (now Nouryon), the maternal NOAELs were determined at 8.4 mg/kg bw/day (based on C12-14 TMAC), 4 mg/kg bw/day (based on DDAC) and 3 mg/kg bw/day (based on C12-16 ADBAC) and the developmental NOAELs were at 8.4, 12 and 30 mg/kg bw/day respectively. It was concluded that overall, the available studies show no specific potential for reproductive or developmental toxicity and the overall NOAEL (1 mg/kg bw/day for maternal toxicity in rats and rabbits) reflects lo local effects on the gut mucosa due to gavage bolus administration and is not relevant to the determination of a systemic AOEL (ECHA biocides assessment report, 2016). Nevertheless, due to the absence of specific reproductive toxicity and the fact that the observed effects in parents relate to general toxicity which are secondary to local effects, the maternal or developmental NOAELs were not considered to be relevant to the determination of a systemic DNELs.

 

Dermal: 

Study 1:A study was conducted to determine the developmental toxicity / teratogenicity of the read across substance, C16 TMAC (25% active in water), according to a method similar to OECD Guideline 414, in compliance with GLP. This experiment was performed inNew Zealand White rabbits. Twenty mated female rabbits per group were exposed topically (daily for 2 h) from Days 7 to 18 of gestation at concentrations of 0, 0.5, 1.0, or 2.0% (equivalent to 0, 10, 20 and 40 mg a.i./kg bw/day, respectively). The control group was treated with deionised water only. Clinical condition and reactions to treatment were recorded at least once daily. Body weights were recorded on Days 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27 and 29 of gestation. All surviving females were sacrificed on Day 29 of gestation and the foetuses were removed by caesarean section. At necropsy the females were examined macroscopically. Live foetuses were weighed, sexed and were examined for visceral and skeletal abnormalities. Two control animals, one intermediate and one high dose died during the study. Two of the rabbits that died, aborted prior to death (one control and one intermediate dose). Two additional abortions occurred, one each in the intermediate and high dose groups. Deaths or abortions were not considered to be related to the read across substance. No treatment-related maternal body weight or food intake effects were noted. The incidence of foetal malformations, as well as genetic and developmental variations in the treated groups was comparable to that of the control group. No other treatment-related effects were noted. Under the study conditions, the NOAEL of the read across substance for maternal as well as developmental toxicity was established at 40 mg a.i./kg bw/day in rabbits (TRS (HPV), 2001). Based on the results of the read across study, similar absence of development effects can be expected for the test substance. 

Study 2:A study was conducted to determine the developmental toxicity of the read across substance, C18 TMAC (98.8% purity), according to a method similar to OECD Guideline 414. This experiment was performed inCFY rats.Twenty mated female rats per group were exposed dermally to the read across substance from Day 6 to Day 15 of gestation. Volumes of 0.5 mL were applied on shaved skin. The concentrations of the read across substance ranged from 0.0 to 2.5% (i.e., corresponding to 0, 18, 30 and 50 mg/kg bw/day). Signs of systemic reaction and local reaction of the exposed area of skin were assessed on a daily basis. Body weights were recorded on Days 1, 3, 6, 10, 17, and 20 of pregnancy. Food and water consumption were measured at regular intervals throughout the study. On Day 20 of pregnancy, congenital abnormalities and macroscopic pathological changes in maternal organs as well as in ovaries and uteri (number of corpora lutea, number/distribution of live young and embryo/foetal deaths (early and late, stages of implantation)) and post implantation loss were evaluated. Litter weights (from which the mean pup weight was calculated), foetal abnormalities (external and internal), and sex determination were also recorded on Gestation Day 20. Under the study conditions, a dermal application of the read across substance did not induce toxic effects on dams or foetuses, except for a local irritation (erythema and oedema) on the skin of pregnant animals. The maternal NOAELs (systemic and local) were therefore established at 50 and 18 mg/kg bw/day, respectively. The developmental NOAEL was determined at 50 mg/kg bw/day (Palmer, 1983). Based on the results of the read across study, similar absence of development effects can be expected for the test substance. 

Overall, based on the available oral and dermal pre-natal development toxicity studies with the test and/or read across substances in rats and rabbits, indicate no concern for development toxicity. Furthermore, in line with the biocides assessment report on Coco TMAC or C12 -16 ADBAC, the maternal NOAELs from the pre-natal studies have not been considered further for risk assessment.

Justification for classification or non-classification

Based on the results of the pre-natal development toxicity studies in rats and rabbits conducted with the read across substances via the oral and dermal routes, the test substance does not warrant a classification according to the EU CLP criteria (Regulation 1272/2008/EC).​