Mutagenic and carcinogenic effects of pesticides.

A discussion of the mutagenic and carcinogenic effects of various classes of commonly used pesticides. Classes discussed include halogenated hydrocarbons organophosphorus insecticides, and certain herbicides and fungicides. Halogenated hydrocarbons were found generally hazardous, causing sterility and displaying marginal or definite carcinogenic activity. Several organophosphorus insecticides have been shown to be mutagens; some have been shown to be carcinogens. Both the herbicide impurity tetrachlorodibenzodioxin, TCDD, and maleic hydrazide have been shown to be carcinogenic in mice and rats. The role of DNA as a critical target for carcinogenic activity is also discussed.