title: Evaluation of pesticide immunotoxicity.
abstract: Immunotoxicologic effects have been reported for a number of pesticides. Since pesticides represent a large range of chemical classes, different types of chemicals may affect the complex immune system by a variety of mechanisms. A preliminary evaluation of pesticides for immunotoxicologic potential can best be incorporated in general subacute and chronic toxicity testing, with additional groups assigned for initial host-sensitivity assays. For chemicals that are possible candidates for immunotoxicity in preliminary assays, a comprehensive immunotoxicity screening has been suggested. Finally, emphasis should be given to mechanistic investigations to objectively assess the immunotoxicity of a new chemical and possible extrapolation to man. Animal models need to be developed for detecting the autoimmunologic potential of pesticides. This paper provides a brief listing of various approaches currently employed in the evaluation of immunotoxicity.
authors.affiliation: Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan 84322-5600.
authors.forename: R P
authors.initials: RP
authors.lastname: Sharma
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001323:Autoantibodies / Q000096:biosynthesis; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced; D004342:Drug Hypersensitivity / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D007107:Immune System / Q000187:drug effects*; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D008214:Lymphocytes / Q000187:drug effects; D010575:Pesticides / Q000633:toxicity*
chemical_list: D001323:Autoantibodies; D010575:Pesticides