Summary answer:
Sex-specific toxic effects are well documented in the scientific literature, including in a study on Roundup toxicity in rats and in animal studies on GM foods. Such effects are to be expected when the hormonal system is involved.
Detailed answer:
Sex-specific toxic effects are well documented in the scientific literature.1 2 They have been found in a study on Roundup in rats3 and in animal studies on GM foods.4
However, the sex-specificity of certain toxic effects found in animal feeding trials on GM foods has been used by industry and EFSA as an excuse to dismiss them.5 4 This is scientifically unjustifiable. Sex-specific effects are to be expected when the hormonal system is involved, since males have different hormonal systems than females.
References:
1. Goedkoop W, Spann N, Akerblom N. Sublethal and sex-specific cypermethrin effects in toxicity tests with the midge Chironomus riparius Meigen. Ecotoxicology. Oct 2010; 19(7): 1201-1208.
2. Isong EU, Essien EU, Eka OU, Umoh IB. Sex- and organ-specific toxicity in normal and malnourished rats fed thermoxidized palm oil. Food Chem Toxicol. Nov 2000; 38(11): 997-1004.
3. Dallegrave E, Mantese FD, Oliveira RT, Andrade AJ, Dalsenter PR, Langeloh A. Pre- and postnatal toxicity of the commercial glyphosate formulation in Wistar rats. Arch Toxicol. Sep 2007; 81: 665–673.
4. Séralini GE, Mesnage R, Clair E, Gress S, de Vendômois JS, Cellier D. Genetically modified crops safety assessments: Present limits and possible improvements. Environmental Sciences Europe. 2011; 23(10).
5. Doull J, Gaylor D, Greim HA, Lovell DP, Lynch B, Munro IC. Report of an Expert Panel on the reanalysis by of a 90-day study conducted by Monsanto in support of the safety of a genetically modified corn variety (MON 863). Food Chem Toxicol. Nov 2007; 45(11): 2073-2085.
Source of criticism:
Elizabeth Finkel, science writer, Cosmos
