International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) - Summaries & Evaluations
GYROMITRIN
(ACETALDEHYDE FORMYLMETHYLHYDRAZONE)
VOL.: 31 (1983) (p. 163)
5. Summary of Data Reported and Evaluation
5.1 Experimental data
Gyromitrin was tested for carcinogenicity in one experiment in
mice by gavage, producing increased incidences of lung, forestomach
and clitoral gland tumours in females and of preputial tumours in
males. N-Methyl-N-formylhydrazine, a metabolite, was tested in mice
by administration in the drinking-water, increasing the incidence of
tumours of the liver, lung, gall bladder and bile duct.
N-Methylhydrazine, another metabolite, was tested in mice and hamsters
by administration in the drinking-water; it produced increased
incidences of histiocytomas and caecal tumours in hamsters.
Gyromitrin was not mutagenic in bacteria, but the metabolite
N-methylhydrazine gave positive results. The data were inadequate to
evaluate the activity of gyromitrin in short-term tests.
No data were available to evaluate the teratogenicity of this
compound to experimental animals.
5.2 Human data
Gyromitrin is a natural substance found in the false morel.
Although most of the compound is destroyed by proper preparation
before eating, there is still a possibility for human exposure.
No data were available to assess the teratogenicity or
chromosomal effects of this compound in humans.
No case report or epidemiological study of the carcinogenicity of
gyromitrin was available to the Working Group.
5.3 Evaluation
Results of studies on gyromitrin itself, supported by studies on
two of its metabolites, provide sufficient evidence for the
carcinogenicity of gyromitrin in experimental animals. No data on
humans were available.
For definition of the italicized terms, see Preamble Evaluation.
Subsequent evaluation: Suppl. 7 (1987)
Last updated: 16 April 1998