Congenital malformations induced by dimethyl sulphoxide in the golden hamster

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Abstract
Dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) is a relatively simple organic compound with a molecular weight of 78. It has been reported to be exceptionally non-toxic and has been used extensively in biological systems as a cell preservative, including freeze storage (Porterfield & Ashwood-Smith, 1962; Dougherty, 1962), and as a radioprotective agent against X-irradiation in mice (Ashwood-Smith, 1961). Recent clinical investigations in man have suggested that DMSO has a remarkable array of effects, including anti-inflammatory activity, bacteriostatic effects, and analgesic activity (Jacob, Bischel & Herschler, 1964). It has been used extensively as a vehicle for the topical application of various drugs because of its dramatic effect on enhancement of penetration of various drugs through the skin (Kligman, 1965).