Sex differential of methylmercury toxicity in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR)

Sex differences in methylmercury (MeHg) toxicity have been reported in man and several laboratory animal species. During a study of the effect of MeHg on blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), the authors observed extensive differences between males and females in mercury toxicity. Since the sex differences were so profound and since apparently knowledge of such differences in MeHg intoxication have never been reported in SHR, it was thought the findings worthy of publication. Herein, the findings on sex differences in morbidity, mortality and blood pressure of SHR treated orally with MMC (2 mg/kg/day) for 26 consecutive days are presented.