Trans-chlordane, also known as gamma-chlordane, is one of two isomers of chlordane. Chlordane is a manufactured chemical that was used as a pesticide in the United States from 1948 to 1988. (6)
belongs to the class of organic compounds known as vinyl chlorides. These are vinyl halides in which a chlorine atom is bonded to an sp2-hybridised carbon atom.
Chlordane is believed to bind irreversibly to DNA, leading to cell death or altered cellular function. It also affects transcription by antagonizing estrogen-related receptors. Chlordane induces hepatic cytochrome P-450, causing a large increase in the volume of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum, which results in hepatocellular enlargement and hypertrophy. Chlordane has also been shown to bind and activate retinoic acid receptor, causing various developmental defects, and inhibit alkaline phosphatases in hepatic and renal tissues. (7, 1, 2, 3, 4)
Metabolism
Chlordane is highly lipophilic and is thus easily absorbed by ingestion, inhalation, and dermal exposure, then stored mainly in the fat. Chlordane is metabolized mainly in the liver and kidney. Metabolism is slow, and is believed to occur by multiple pathways involving cytochrome P-450 enzymes, glutathione-S-transferase type enzymes, and microsomal mixed-function oxidase systems. The metabolites are generally less toxic and include chlordene chlorohydrin, monohydroxylated dihydrochlordene, and oxychlordane. They are excreted in the urine and faeces. (7)
Chlordane is a central nervous system stimulant, and can also damage the digestive system and the liver. Large doses have been shown to cause convulsions, respiratory failure, and death. Chlordane is also known to have adverse reproductive and developmental effects. (7)
Symptoms
Ingestion and inhalation of chlordane cause headaches, irritability, confusion, weakness, vision problems, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and jaundice. (7)
Treatment
Treatment is symptomatic. It is aimed at controlling convulsions, coma, and respiratory depression. Gastric lavage, followed by the administration of activated charcoal, may be performed following ingestion. (10)
