Toxicology and carcinogenesis studies of β-picoline in F344/N rats and B6C3F1/N mice (drinking water studies).

β-Picoline is used as a solvent in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, resins, dyes, rubber accelerators, and insecticides. β-Picoline was nominated by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences for toxicological evaluation and carcinogenicity studies based on its high production volume and potential for human exposure. Male and female F344/N rats and B6C3F1/N mice were exposed to β-picoline (greater than 96% pure) in drinking water for 3 months or 2 years. Genetic toxicology studies were conducted in Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli, and mouse peripheral blood erythrocytes. (Abstract Abridged).