Physiological effects of brominated flame retardants on NC/Nga mice.

Purpose: Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are used as an additive or reactive components in various materials. Regarding their health concerns, their immunotoxicity have not been clarified yet.

Materials And Methods: In the current study, we examined the effects of systemic exposure to two types of BFRs, DE71 and DE79, on pathophysiologic traits of murine atopic dermatitis (AD). Male NC/Nga mice were repeatedly injected intraperitoneally with DE71 and DE79 and/or mite allergen (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus: Dp) into their right ears. Thereafter, clinical scores, macroscopic findings of inflammatory foci, and Ig values in serum were examined.

Results: Both DEs significantly aggravated clinical scores induced by mite allergen including skin dryness and edema. Total IgE titer was significantly greater in the Dp + DE79 group than in the Dp group.

Conclusions: Taken together, exposure to BFRs can exacerbate AD-like skin lesions related to mite allergen in mice. The accentuating effects may be mediated, at least in part, through hyperproduction of IgE.