Distribution of 14-C-PCB during fetal period. Whole-body autoradiography of pregnant mice.

14-C-PCB containing 85% 2,2'-Dichlorobiphenyl was injected intramusculary in pregnant mice. The distribution of radioactivity was studied by using whole-body autoradiography technique. After its removal from the injection site, the major part of radioactivity was accumulated in maternal excretory organs: intestine, kidney, and urinary bladder. This indicated a rapid elimination of the 2,2'-Dichlorobiphenyl. High radioactivity could also be found in the gall bladder and a large amount in the liver. Comparatively less radioactive substance was present in the fat depots, skin, lung, and blood. At the beginning of the fetal period the uptake by fetuses was very low but about one day before the parturation moderate uptake occurred. At the end of gestation in fetuses, radioactivity was present predominately in the intestine and urinary bladder; it could also be detected in the liver and kidneys.