In utero and early-life nitrate in drinking water impacts lung function of weanling rats

Consumption of nitrate in drinking water has previously been associated with a range of adverse health effects, including methemoglobinemia and potentially cancer. In animal models, it has been shown to impact respiratory structure and function, however, there is a paucity of data of the effects of in utero exposure on the respiratory health of offspring.

Citation:
Larcombe AN, Landwehr KR, Berry LJ, Catchpole EE, Gray A, Kardol LR, Wyrwoll CS. In utero and early-life nitrate in drinking water impacts lung function of weanling rats. Sci Total Environ. 2025;971.

Keywords:
Drinking water; In utero; Lung function; Nitrate; Rat

Abstract:
Consumption of nitrate in drinking water has previously been associated with a range of adverse health effects, including methemoglobinemia and potentially cancer. In animal models, it has been shown to impact respiratory structure and function, however, there is a paucity of data of the effects of in utero exposure on the respiratory health of offspring.