Absorption, degradation and excretion of benzo(a)pyrene in the cricket (Acheta domesticus)

Abstract

1. The absorption, degradation and excretion of ³H-benzo(a)pyrene (³H-BP) was examined in the cricket (Acheta domesticus).

2. After ³H-BP injection, extractable ³H-BP declined in the internal compartment over a 48 period.

3. When ³H-BP was deposited on the surface of the insect it penetrated through the cuticle, as evidenced by decrease in ³H-BP recovered in surface rinses and accumulation of ³H-BP internally.

4. Administration of ³H-BP by topical application or injection resulted in a progressive association of radioactivity with tissue debris and low-level metabolism to highly polar compounds. Both parent compound and highly polar metabolites were detected in excreta.

5. Treatment of insects with piperonyl butoxide decreased accumulation of polar products in excreta after injection of ³H-BP.