The effect of lead on insecticide metabolism.

The possibility that lead could affect the metabolism of the insecticide 1,1-dichloro-2, 2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane, DDD, was examined by studies of the effects of chronic oral Pb treatment on DDD conversion to 2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)acetic acid, DDA. Rats were given either distilled deionized water or 0.05, 0.58, 17 or 352 ppm Pb solutions as drinking water. Systolic blood pressure and body weight were measured weekly. Rats drinking 352 ppm lead chloride manifested a statistically significant increase in blood pressure. Rats drinking 352 ppm and 17 ppm lead chloride showed a significant decrease in the rate of weight gain compared to controls. All groups showed an increase in the excretion of total DDA compared to controls.