Comparison of the cytotoxicity and DNA-damaging properties of 2,4-D and U 46 D fluid (dimethylammonium salt of 2,4-D).

U 46 D Fluid (the dimethylammonium salt of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid in a commercial formulation) was more toxic to human fibroblasts than 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D). Moreover, U 46 D Fluid induced single-strand breaks at apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) sites of heat-acid treated PM2 DNA while 2,4-D did not. The 1H-NMR spectrum of the dimethylammonium (DMA) salt of 2,4-D indicated the formation of a complex via a six-membered aggregate of the DMA ion and the acid group of 2,4-D. The role of complex formation of the DMA salt of 2,4-D as a cause of single-strand breaking activity and increased cytotoxicity is discussed.