Genotoxic and mutagenic effects of diflubenzuron, an insect growth regulator, on mice.

This study assessed the genotoxic and mutagenic potential of diflubenzuron (DFB) insecticide in mice. Mice were divided into five groups: group I: negative control; group II: positive control; group III: 0.3 mg/kg of DFB; group IV: 1 mg/kg of DFB; group V: 3 mg/kg DFB. Peripheral blood was collected for the comet assay and the micronucleus (MN) test. DFB increased incidence of comet formation at all doses tested. A rise in the frequency of MN in mouse peripheral blood was observed 24, 48, and 72 h postexposure at all doses tested. Data demonstrate that DFB exerts genotoxic and mutagenic effects in a dose-dependent manner.