The organotellurane RF07 (RF07) is an organic compound containing tellurium, a rare semi-metal, and its leishmanicidal and antimalarial activity has already been reported in previous studies. This study evaluated the toxic effects of RF07 at 0.42, 21.37, and 42.75 mg/kg using comet assay, micronucleus test, and hematological/biochemical tests in Mus musculus. Female Swiss mice received intraperitoneal RF07. Blood was collected at 24, 48, and 72 h, followed by euthanasia for bone marrow analysis. Results showed RF07 increased DNA damage, clastogenic/aneugenic effects via micronuclei formation, and cytotoxicity through apoptosis in bone marrow erythroid precursors and altering the ratio of polychromatic to normochromatic erythrocytes. RF07 also caused myelosuppression and hepatotoxicity. To our knowledge, this is the first study explore these toxic effects. However, the mechanism remains unclear, requiring further investigation.
Jesus et al. (Sun,) studied this question.