Comparative erythropoietic effects of three vanadium compounds

The biotoxic effects of vanadium are variable depending upon a number of factors including the oxidation state of the test compound. This study reports the effects of three vanadium compounds on peripheral erythrocytes. On day 0 female ICR mice received a single injection of vanadium chloride V-III., vanadyl sulfate V-IV., or sodium orthovandate V-V.. At scheduled intervals post-injection, the number of circulating erythrocytes wred blood cells per millimeter cubed RBCrmm3.x, reticulocyte percentages, and radioiron uptake percentages were determined and compared to mice receiving saline only. Data show that all three test substances promoted a significant lowering of RBCrmm3 beginning on day 1 for V-IV and V-V and on day 2 for V-III through day 4. The reticulocyte percentages increase followed the same time course as that of the peripheral RBC decrease. Peak reticulocytosis was noted on days 2 and 4 for all three vanadium-treated groups; for V-IV and V-V the increase continued to day 6. Radioiron data showed an erythropoietic stimulation by a significant increase in uptake percentages on days 4]6 after vanadium injections compared to saline-treated controls.