The metabolism of methylcyclohexane in Fischer 344 rats

Abstract The urinary metabolites of methylcyclohexane (MCH) in male Fischer 344 rats, administered the hydrocarbon by gavage, included cyclohexylmethanol, trans-3-methylcyclohexanol, trans-4-methylcyclohexanol, 2 c -hydroxy-4 c -methylcyclohexanol, 2 c -hydroxy-4 t -methylcyclohexanol and 2 t -hydroxy-4 c -methylcyclohexanol. Analyses were performed by gas-liquid partition chromatography (GC) and gas-liquid partition chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Metabolism of the ring is strongly favored. Histopathologic examination revealed only very slight renal tissue damage as a result of the MCH dosing.