belongs to the class of organic compounds known as dinitroanilines. These are organic compounds containing an aniline moiety, which is substituted at 2 positions by a nitro group.
In the red blood cell, 1,3-DNB induces formation of methemoglobin, leading to cyanosis. Reduction of the nitrogroup(s) of 1,3-DNB produces reactive nitroaromatic radical anions which redox cycle to produce other reactive, toxic species such as superoxide anion. Redox cycling of these intermediates probably causes the methemoglobinemia. In the male reproductive system, 1,3-DNB causes disruption of spermatogenesis resulting in hypospermia, poor sperm quality, and infertility. Reduction of 1,3-DNB to reactive species such as nitrosonitrobenzene is believed to damage Sertoli cells. (5)
Metabolism
1,3-Dinitrobenzene is absorbed via oral, inhalation, and dermal routes and is believed to be able to penetrate the red blood cell membrane. The metabolism of 1,3-DNB includes both oxidative and reductive biotransformations, followed by conjugation. The main metabolites are 3-aminoacetanilide, 4-acetamidophenylsulfate, 1,3-diacetamidobenzene, and 3-nitroaniline-N-glucuronide. The main route of excretion of 1,3-DNB metabolites is the urine. (5)
No indication of carcinogenicity (not listed by IARC). (3)
Uses/Sources
1,3-Dinitrobenzene is used in explosives. Waste discharges from army ammunitions plants or other chemical manufacturers are the primary sources for release into the air, water, and soil. (5)
Chronic exposure to 1,3-dinitrobenzene can cause a reduction (or loss) in the number of red blood cells (anemia). It may also cause behavioral changes and male reproductive system damage. (5)
Symptoms
Exposure to high concentrations of 1,3-dinitrobenzene can reduce the ability of blood to carry oxygen and can cause your skin to become bluish in color. Other symptoms of 1,3-dinitrobenzene exposure include headache, nausea, and dizziness.(5)
Treatment
Treatment is mainly symptomatic and may include gastric lavage and/or the administration of activated charcoal. Benzodiazepine may be administered if seizures occur. If methemoglobinemia is evident, 1 to 2 mg/kg of 1% methylene blue should be administered via IV. (9)
