Biochemical and structural alterations in rat erythrocytes due to hexachlorocyclohexane exposure.

The changes in biochemical constituents of rat erythrocyte membranes were observed after a single ip exposure to 300 mg commercial HCH/kg body weight (one-third of the LD50). The phospholipid:cholesterol ratio was altered, and there were changes in the activities of the membrane-bound enzymes ATPase and acetylcholinesterase. The phospholipid content was increased while cholesterol and ATPase and acetylcholinesterase activities were significantly decreased. The erythrocytes also showed morphological changes (cell deformity and echinocyte formation).