The adverse health effects of bisphenol A and related toxicity mechanisms

Optimized microbial fuel cell-powered electro-Fenton processes to enhance electricity and bisphenol A removal by varying external resistance and electrolyte concentrations

This study is the first to investigate the effects of external resistance and electrolyte concentration on the performance of a bioelectro-Fenton (BEF) system, involving measurements of power density, H2O2 generation, and bisphenol A (BPA) removal efficiency. With optimized operating conditions (external resistance of 1.12 kΩ and cathodic NaCl concentration of 1,657 mg/L), the BEF system achieved a maximum power density of 38.59 mW/m2, which is about 3.5 times higher than with 1 kΩ external resistance and no NaCl. This system featured a 71.7 % reduction in total internal resistance. The optimized BEF also accelerated the oxygen reduction reaction rate, increasing H2O2 generation by 4.4 times compared to the unoptimized system. Moreover, it exhibited superior BPA degradation performance, removing over 99 % of BPA within 14 hs, representing a 1.1 to 3.3-fold improvement over the unoptimized BEF. By the fifth cycle (70 h), the optimized BEF still removed 70 % of BPA. Optimizing the operating conditions significantly increased the abundance of electrochemically active bacteria (Pseudomonadaceae) from 2.2 % to 20 %, facilitating rapid acclimation. The study demonstrates the strong potential of an optimized BEF system for removing persistent pollutants.

Associations of prenatal and concurrent exposure to phenols mixture with anthropometric measures and blood pressure during childhood: A time-varying mixture approach

BACKGROUND

Environmental phenols were recognized as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). However, their impact on childhood anthropometric measures and blood pressure (BP) is still inconclusive. Limited studies have simultaneously considered prenatal and childhood exposures in analyzing mixtures of phenols.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the relationships between combined prenatal and childhood exposures (two periodic exposures) to phenol mixtures and anthropometric measure and BP, to further identify the vulnerable periods of phenol exposure and to explore the important individual contribution of each phenol.

METHODS

We analyzed 434 mother-child dyads from the Sheyang Mini Birth Cohort Study (SMBCS). The urinary concentrations of 11 phenolic compounds were measured using gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Generalized linear regression models (GLMs) and hierarchical Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (hBKMR) were used to examine the effects of individual phenolic compounds at each period and of two periodic exposures.

RESULTS

In the single-chemical analysis, prenatal or childhood exposure to specific phenols, especially Benzopheone-3 (BP3), 4-tert-Octylphenol (4-tOP), and Benzyl paraben (BePB) were associated with BMI z-scores (BAZ), Waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and BP. In the hBKMR models, two periodic exposures to phenol mixtures had a U-shaped association with WHtR, primarily driven by childhood BePB exposure. Moreover, among the phenol mixtures analysis, childhood 4-tOP exposure was identified as the primary contributor to the positive association with diastolic BP. Concurrent exposure to phenol mixtures resulted in greater susceptibility.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that prenatal and childhood exposure to phenol mixtures might influence childhood obesity and elevate blood pressure levels. Concurrent exposure to 4-tOP may be the primary driver of the positive associations with BP.

Advances in MXene-based technologies for the remediation of toxic phenols: A comprehensive review

The pressing global issue of organic pollutants, particularly phenolic compounds derived primarily from industrial wastes, poses a significant threat to the environment. Although progress has been made in the development of low-cost materials for phenolic compound removal, their effectiveness remains limited. Thus, there is an urgent need for novel technologies to comprehensively address this issue. In this context, MXenes, known for their exceptional physicochemical properties, have emerged as highly promising candidates for the remediation of phenolic pollutants. This review aims to provide a comprehensive and critical evaluation of MXene-based technologies for the removal of phenolic pollutants, focusing on the following key aspects: (1) The classification and categorization of phenolic pollutants, highlighting their adverse environmental impacts, and emphasizing the crucial need for their removal. (2) An in-depth discussion on the synthesis methods and properties of MXene-based composites, emphasizing their suitability for environmental remediation. (3) A detailed analysis of MXene-based adsorption, catalysis, photocatalysis, and hybrid processes, showcasing current advancements in MXene modification and functionalization to enhance removal efficiency. (4) A thorough examination of the removal mechanisms and stability of MXene-based technologies, elucidating their operating conditions and stability in pollutant removal scenarios. (5) Finally, this review concludes by outlining future challenges and opportunities for MXene-based technologies in water treatment, facilitating their potential applications. This comprehensive review provides valuable insights and innovative ideas for the development of versatile MXene-based technologies tailored to combat water pollution effectively.

Ultrahigh Heat/Fire-Resistant, Mechanically Robust, and Closed-Loop Chemical Recyclable Polycarbonate Enabled by Facile Bond Dissociation Energy Modulation

Plastics serve as an essential foundation in contemporary society. Nevertheless, meeting the rigorous performance demands in advanced applications and addressing their end-of-life disposal are two critical challenges that persist. Here, an innovative and facile method is introduced for the design and scalable production of polycarbonate, a key engineering plastic, simultaneously achieving high performance and closed-loop chemical recyclability. The bisphenol framework of polycarbonate is strategically adjusted from the low-bond-dissociation-energy bisphenol A to high-bond-dissociation-energy 4,4'-dihydroxydiphenyl, in combination with the incorporation of polysiloxane segments. As expected, the enhanced bond dissociation energy endows the polycarbonate with an extremely high glow-wire flammability index surpassing 1025 °C, a 0.8 mm UL-94 V-0 rating, a high LOI value of 39.2%, and more than 50% reduction of heat and smoke release. Furthermore, the π-π stacking interactions within biphenyl structures resulted in a significant enhancement of mechanical strength by as more as 37.7%, and also played a positive role in achieving a lower dielectric constant. Significantly, the copolymer exhibited outstanding closed-loop chemical recyclability, allowing for facile depolymerization into bisphenol monomers and the repolymerized copolymer retains its high heat and fire resistance. This work provides a novel insight in the design of high-performance and closed-loop chemical recyclable polymeric materials.

Bisphenol A induces lipid metabolism disorder and impairs hepatopancreas of Sesarmops sinensis

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical that disrupts the endocrine system and may have negative implications on the lipid metabolism of organisms. To ascertain BPA implications on lipid metabolism in the hepatopancreas of Sesarmops sinensis, we exposed S. sinensis to different concentrations of BPA for 14 days. The outcomes manifested that BPA may stimulate hepatopancreas injury and lipid deposition in the hepatopancreas of S. sinensis and lead to the increase of hepatosomatic index (HSI). Transcriptome analysis showed that lipid metabolism-related pathways were significantly enriched in KEGG pathways. BPA exposure also caused disorders in lipid metabolism by altering fatty acid composition and lipid metabolites. The up-regulation of lipid synthesis genes and the alteration of lipid transport genes may be important reasons for the disorder of lipid metabolism. Furthermore, these outcomes provide a fresh point of reference for comprehending the ecotoxicological impacts of BPA on aquatic organisms.

Bisphenol A: Epigenetic effects on the male reproductive system and male offspring

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a commonly used organic compound. Over the past decades, many studies have examined the mechanisms of BPA toxicity, with BPA-induced alterations in epigenetic modifications receiving considerable attention. Particularly in the male reproductive system, abnormal alterations in epigenetic markers can adversely affect reproductive function. Furthermore, these changes in epigenetic markers can be transmitted to offspring through the father. Here, we review the effects of BPA exposure on various epigenetic markers in the male reproductive system, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and noncoding RNA, as well as associated changes in the male reproductive function. We also reviewed the effects of father's exposure to BPA on offspring epigenetic modification patterns.

Enhancing enzymatic catalysis efficiency: Immobilizing laccase on HHSS for synergistic bisphenol A adsorption and biodegradation through optimized external surface utilization

Laccase, a prominent enzyme biomacromolecule, exhibits promising catalytic efficiency in degrading phenolic compounds like bisphenol A (BPA). The laccase immobilized on conventional materials frequently demonstrates restricted loading and suboptimal catalytic performance. Hence, there is a pressing need to optimized external surface utilization to enhance catalytic performance. Herein, we synthesized amino-functionalized modified silica particles with a hierarchical hollow silica spherical (HHSS) structure for laccase immobilization via crosslinking, resulting in HHSS-LE biocatalysts. Through Box-Behnken design (BBD) and response surface methodology (RSM), we achieved a remarkably high enzyme loading of up to 213.102 mg/g. The synergistic effect of adsorption by HHSS and degradation by laccase facilitated efficient removal of BPA. The HHSS-LE demonstrated superior BPA removal capabilities, with efficiencies exceeding 100 % in the 50-200 mg/L BPA concentration range. Compared to MCM-41 and solid silica spheres (SSS), HHSS showed the highest enzyme loading capacity and catalytic activity, underscoring its superior external surface utilization rate per unit mass. Remarkably, the HHSS-LE biocatalyst exhibited remarkable recyclability even after 11 successive cycles of reuse. By preparing high immobilization rate with efficient external surface utilization, this study lays the foundation for the design of universally applicable and efficient enzyme immobilization catalysts.

Impact of Bisphenol A exposure on maternal gut microbial homeostasis, placental function, and fetal development during pregnancy

Pregnancy is extremely vulnerable to external environmental influences. Bisphenol A, an endocrine-disrupting chemical, poses a significant environmental hazard to individuals of all ages and stages, particularly during pregnancy. The placenta is a temporary organ facilitating the connection between the mother and fetus. While it can detoxify certain exogenous substances, it is also vulnerable to the impacts of endocrine disruptors. Likewise, the intestinal flora is highly sensitive to exogenous stresses and environmental pollutants. The regulation of gut microbiota plays a crucial role in ensuring the health of both the mother and the fetus. The gut-placental axis connects the gut, gut microbes, placenta, and fetus. Exploring possible effects on placental function and fetal development involves analyzing changes in gut microbiota composition. Given that bisphenol A may cross the intestine and affect intestinal function, gut microorganisms, and their metabolites, as well as its potential impact on the placenta, resulting in impaired placental function and fetal development, this study aims to establish a link between bisphenol A exposure, intestinal microorganisms, placental function, and fetal development. This paper seeks to analyze the effects of maternal exposure to bisphenol A during pregnancy on the balance of the maternal gut microbiota, placental function, and fetal development, considering the key role of the gut-placental axis. Additionally, this paper proposes potential directions for future research emphasizing the importance of mitigating the adverse outcomes of bisphenol A exposure during pregnancy in both human and animal studies.

Integrating detection and degradation of bisphenol A by photocatalytic fuel cell-driven photoelectrochemical sensor

To ensure food safety and environmental protection, it is crucial to rapidly identify and remove bisphenol A (BPA), a plasticizer commonly used in the inner lining of food containers and beverage packaging. Here, a photocatalytic fuel cell (PFC)-integrated self-powered photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensor is constructed. Unlike conventional single PEC or PFC sensors, this PFC-integrated PEC sensor relies on not only the difference in Fermi energy levels between photoanode and photocathode but also charge accumulation resulted from the oxidation of BPA by photogenerated holes. Consequently, this sensor achieved a remarkable maximum output power (Pmax) of 8.58 μW cm-2, as well as a high sensitivity, wide linear detection range (0.1-200 μM), low detection limit (0.05 μM), great stability, reproducibility, and real sample detection capability. This work integrates PFC and PEC technologies successfully for the rapid identification and efficient removal of BPA.

Effects of bisphenol A, bisphenol S, and tetramethyl bisphenol F on male fertility in Caenorhabditis elegans

Research has shown that exposure to bisphenol A (BPA), a widely used plasticizer, can lead to meiotic errors, resulting in poor reproductive cell quality and infertility. Health-related concerns have prompted the search for BPA alternatives; however, evidence suggests that currently used BPA analogs, such as bisphenol S (BPS), may pose similar risks to human health. While the effects of BPA on female fertility are well documented, the impact of BPA exposure on sperm quality is poorly understood. To better understand the effects of bisphenol analogs on spermatogenesis, we synthesized a less investigated BPA analog, tetramethyl bisphenol F (TMBPF), and compared its reprotoxic potential to that of widely used BPA and BPS using C. elegans-based assays. We evaluated germ cell count, spermatid size, morphology, and activation in males treated with 0.5 mM ethanol-dissolved bisphenol analogs for 48 h as well as their cross-progeny number and viability. Our results indicated that all of the evaluated bisphenol analogs-BPA, BPS, and TMBPF-adversely affect male fertility to varying degrees. Whereas all three bisphenols reduced spermatid size, only BPA exposure resulted in impaired spermatid activation and significantly reduced brood size. In addition, a decrease in embryonic viability, suggestive of an increased incidence of sperm chromosomal aberrations, was observed following exposure to all of the tested bisphenols. Further investigation is necessary to fully elucidate the underlying mechanisms and implications of BPA, BPS, and TMBPF on spermatogenesis.

Exploring the association between Urinary Bisphenol A, S, and F Levels and semen Quality Parameters: Findings from Led-Fertyl Cross-Sectional Study

Infertility is recognized as a multifaceted condition affecting approximately 15% of couples globally, influenced by various factors including genetic predisposition and environmental exposures. Among these environmental factors, bisphenol A (BPA) emerges as a prominent Endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDCs) widely distributed, leading to chronic human exposure in daily life. As regulations on BPA became more stringent, alternative substances such as bisphenol S (BPS) and bisphenol F (BPF) have emerged. Animal studies have demonstrated a dose-dependent decline in fertility and embryotoxicity following chronic exposure to BPA. However, literature data on human studies are limited and heterogeneous. Additionally, even less is known about the relationship between exposure to the BPA analogues (BPS and BPF) and sperm quality. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine the association between urinary concentrations of BPA, BPF, and BPS and semen quality parameters among 195 adult Spanish men from the Led-Fertyl study cohort using multiple linear regression models adjusted by potential confounding variables. Our results revealed an inverse association between log-transformed creatinine-adjusted concentration (ng/mg)) of BPA and BPF levels and the percentage of sperm vitality (β: -3.56 %; 95%CI: -6.48 to -0.63 and β: -4.14 %; 95%CI: -6.97 to -1.31; respectively). Furthermore, participants in the highest quartile of BPA and BPF urinary concentration exhibited lower sperm vitality compared to those in the lowest quartile (β: -6.90 %; 95%CI: -11.60 to -2.15 and β: -9.68 %; 95%CI: -14.43 to -4.94; respectively). These results supply epidemiological evidence establishing a relationship between bisphenols urine exposure and sperm quality, suggesting that a re-evaluation of the overall safety of BPA alternatives is warranted.

Bisphenol H exposure disrupts Leydig cell function in adult rats via oxidative stress-mediated m6A modifications: Implications for reproductive toxicity

Bisphenol H (BPH) has emerged as a potential alternative to bisphenol A (BPA), which has been curtailed for use due to concerns over its reproductive and endocrine toxicity. This study investigates whether BPH exerts antiandrogenic effects by impairing Leydig cell function, a critical component in testosterone production. We administered orally BPH to adult male rats at doses of 0, 1, 10, and 100 mg/kg/day for 7 days. Notably, BPH treatment resulted in a dose-dependent reduction in testicular testosterone levels, with significant decreases observed at ≥ 1 mg/kg/day. Additionally, BPH affected the expression of key genes involved in steroidogenesis and cholesterol metabolism, including Nr5a1, Nr3c4, Lhcgr, Scarb1, and Star, at higher doses (10 and/or 100 mg/kg/day). The study also revealed alterations in antioxidant gene expression (Sod2 and Cat) and modulation of m6A-related genes (Ythdf1-3 and Foxo3) and their proteins. Through MeRIP-qPCR analysis, we identified increased m6A modifications in Scarb1 and Star genes following BPH exposure. In vitro experiments with primary Leydig cells confirmed that BPH enhanced oxidative stress and diminished testosterone production, which were partially mitigated by antioxidant vitamin E supplementation and Ythdf3 knockdown. Meanwhile, simultaneous administration of BPH and vitamin E to primary Leydig cells partially counteracted BPH-induced alterations in the Ythdf3 expression. Our findings underscore a novel mechanism by which BPH disrupts Leydig cell function through the oxidative stress-m6A modification-autophagy pathway, raising concerns about its potential reproductive toxicity.

Recent Development of Functional Bio-Based Epoxy Resins

The development of epoxy resins is mainly dependent on non-renewable petroleum resources, commonly diglycidyl ether bisphenol A (DGEBA)-type epoxy monomers. Most raw materials of these thermoset resins are toxic to the health of human beings. To alleviate concerns about the environment and health, the design and synthesis of bio-based epoxy resins using biomass as raw materials have been widely studied in recent decades to replace petroleum-based epoxy resins. With the improvement in the requirements for the performance of bio-based epoxy resins, the design of bio-based epoxy resins with unique functions has attracted a lot of attention, and bio-based epoxy resins with flame-retardant, recyclable/degradable/reprocessable, antibacterial, and other functional bio-based epoxy resins have been developed to expand the applications of epoxy resins and improve their competitiveness. This review summarizes the research progress of functional bio-based epoxy resins in recent years. First, bio-based epoxy resins were classified according to their unique function, and synthesis strategies of functional bio-based epoxy resins were discussed, then the relationship between structure and performance was revealed to guide the synthesis of functional bio-based epoxy resins and stimulate the development of more types of functional bio-based epoxy resins. Finally, the challenges and opportunities in the development of functional bio-based epoxy resins are presented.

Emerging regulatory roles of noncoding RNAs induced by bisphenol a (BPA) and its alternatives in human diseases

Bisphenols (BPs), including BPA, BPF, BPS, and BPAF, are synthetic phenolic organic compounds and endocrine-disrupting chemicals. These organics have been broadly utilized to produce epoxy resins, polycarbonate plastics, and other products. Mounting evidence has shown that BPs, especially BPA, may enter into the human body and participate in the development of human diseases mediated by nuclear hormone receptors. Moreover, BPA may negatively affect human health at the epigenetic level through processes such as DNA methylation and histone acetylation. Recent studies have demonstrated that, as part of epigenetics, noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), circular RNAs (circRNAs), and small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs), have vital impacts on BP-related diseases, such as reproductive system diseases, nervous system diseases, digestive system diseases, endocrine system diseases, and other diseases. Moreover, based on the bioinformatic analysis, changes in ncRNAs may be relevant to normal activities and functions and BP-induced diseases. Thus, we conducted a meta-analysis to identify more promising ncRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for BP exposure and relevant human diseases. In this review, we summarize the regulatory functions of ncRNAs induced by BPs in human diseases and latent molecular mechanisms, as well as identify prospective biomarkers and therapeutic targets for BP exposure and upper diseases.

Review on personal protective equipment: Emerging concerns in micro(nano)plastic pollution and strategies for addressing environmental challenges

The COVID-19 pandemic was caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, marking one of the most catastrophic global health crises of the 21st century. Throughout this period, widespread use and improper disposal of personal protective equipment (PPE) emerged as a pressing environmental issue, significantly impacting various life forms. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a high rate of PEP disposal. An alarming 1.6 × 106 tons of plastic waste each day has been generated since the onset of the outbreak, predominantly from the inadequate disposal of PPE. The mismanagement and subsequent degradation of discarded PPE significantly contribute to increased non-biodegradable micro(nano)plastic (MNP) waste. This pollution has had profound adverse effects on terrestrial, marine, and aquatic ecosystems, which have been extensively of concern recently. Accumulated MNPs within aquatic organisms could serve as a potential route for human exposure when consuming seafood. This review presents a novel aspect concerning the pollution caused by MNPs, particularly remarking on their role during the pandemic and their detrimental effects on human health. These microplastic particles, through the process of fragmentation, transform into nanoparticles, persisting in the environment and posing potential hazards. The prevalence of MNP from PPE, notably masks, raises concerns about their plausible health risks, warranting global attention and comprehensive exploration. Conducting a comprehensive evaluation of the long-term effects of these processes and implementing effective management strategies is essential.

Odorous emissions of synthetic turf and its relationship with local communities

Synthetic turf has been a mainstay of field sports and local communities for decades, and in that time, has faced both community and government pressure to ensure its safety and fitness for purpose. Considerable research and regulations have been applied to synthetic turf with regards to its safety, construction, potential toxicity, sports impact, as well as environmental considerations. However, very little attention has been paid to reports of odorous impacts from synthetic turf fields. This is problematic as odours are both a source of most complaints by communities towards other industries, as well as the fact that synthetic turf has a unique placement within communities themselves. It is wholly possible that the concerns surrounding synthetic turf are being modulated by the odours that the fields themselves produce through previously identified psychological mechanisms. As a result, ensuring good standards for synthetic turf with regards to odorous emissions should be benchmarked for community acceptability. This review investigates prior research into synthetic turf with regards to identified volatile organic compounds emitted, as well as proposing the means by which community stakeholders engage with synthetic turf, as well as how they should be consulted. From here, this review provides trajectories for future research within this space, and how regulatory bodies should address potential issues. This research space is currently in its infancy and therefore information relating to synthetic turf odour factors must be carefully considered.

Bisphenol S Promotes the Transfer of Antibiotic Resistance Genes via Transformation

The antibiotic resistance crisis has seriously jeopardized public health and human safety. As one of the ways of horizontal transfer, transformation enables bacteria to acquire exogenous genes naturally. Bisphenol compounds are now widely used in plastics, food, and beverage packaging, and have become a new environmental pollutant. However, their potential relationship with the spread of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the environment remains largely unexplored. In this study, we aimed to assess whether the ubiquitous bisphenol S (BPS) could promote the transformation of plasmid-borne ARGs. Using plasmid pUC19 carrying the ampicillin resistance gene as an extracellular ARG and model microorganism E. coli DH5α as the recipient, we established a transformation system. Transformation assays revealed that environmentally relevant concentrations of BPS (0.1-10 μg/mL) markedly enhanced the transformation frequency of plasmid-borne ARGs into E. coli DH5α up to 2.02-fold. Fluorescent probes and transcript-level analyses suggest that BPS stimulated increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, activated the SOS response, induced membrane damage, and increased membrane fluidity, which weakened the barrier for plasmid transfer, allowing foreign DNA to be more easily absorbed. Moreover, BPS stimulates ATP supply by activating the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, which promotes flagellar motility and expands the search for foreign DNA. Overall, these findings provide important insight into the role of bisphenol compounds in facilitating the horizontal spread of ARGs and emphasize the need to monitor the residues of these environmental contaminants.

Bisphenol F and Bisphenol S in a Complex Biomembrane: Comparison with Bisphenol A

Bisphenols are a group of endocrine-disrupting chemicals used worldwide for the production of plastics and resins. Bisphenol A (BPA), the main bisphenol, exhibits many unwanted effects. BPA has, currently, been replaced with bisphenol F (BPF) and bisphenol S (BPS) in many applications in the hope that these molecules have a lesser effect on metabolism than BPA. Since bisphenols tend to partition into the lipid phase, their place of choice would be the cellular membrane. In this paper, I carried out molecular dynamics simulations to compare the localization and interactions of BPA, BPF, and BPS in a complex membrane. This study suggests that bisphenols tend to be placed at the membrane interface, they have no preferred orientation inside the membrane, they can be in the monomer or aggregated state, and they affect the biophysical properties of the membrane lipids. The properties of bisphenols can be attributed, at least in part, to their membranotropic effects and to the modulation of the biophysical membrane properties. The data support that both BPF and BPS, behaving in the same way in the membrane as BPA and with the same capacity to accumulate in the biological membrane, are not safe alternatives to BPA.

Co-occurrence of azorubine and bisphenol A in beverages increases the risk of developmental toxicity: A study in zebrafish model

The prevalent use of Azorubine (E122) and the unintentional food additive, Bisphenol A (BPA), in ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages raises significant health concerns, especially for children. The combined impact on embryonic development must be explored despite individual safety assessments. Our investigation revealed that the combined exposure of E122 and BPA at beverage concentration significantly induces mortality and morphological deformities, including reduced growth, pericardial edema, and yolk sac edema. The co-exposure triggers oxidative stress, impairing antioxidant enzyme responses and resulting in lipid and cellular damage. Notably, apoptotic cells are observed in the neural tube and notochord of the co-exposed larvae. Critical genes related to the antioxidant response elements (nrf2, ho1, and nqo1), apoptosis activation (bcl2, bax, and p53), and pro/anti-inflammatory cytokines (nfkb, tnfa, il1b, tgfb, il10, and il12) displayed substantial changes, highlighting the molecular mechanisms. Behavior studies indicated hypo-locomotion with reduced thigmotaxis and touch response in co-exposed larvae, distinguishing it from individual exposures. These findings underscore the neurodevelopmental impacts of E122 and BPA at reported beverage concentrations, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive safety assessments, particularly for child consumption.

Potential hazards of bisphenol A on the male reproductive system: Induction of programmed cell death in testicular cells

A common industrial chemical known as bisphenol A (BPA) has been linked to endocrine disruption and can interfere with hormonal signaling pathways in humans and animals. This comprehensive review aims to explore the detrimental consequences of BPA on reproductive organ performance and apoptosis induction, shedding light on the emerging body of evidence from laboratory animal studies. Historically, most studies investigating the connection between BPA and reproductive tissue function have mainly leaned on laboratory animal models. These studies have provided crucial insights into the harmful effects of BPA on several facets of reproduction. This review consolidates an increasing literature that correlates exposure to BPA in the environment with a negative impact on human health. It also integrates findings from laboratory studies conducted on diverse species, collectively bolstering the mounting evidence that environmental BPA exposure can be detrimental to both humans and animals, particularly to reproductive health. Furthermore, this article explores the fundamental processes by which BPA triggers cell death and apoptosis in testicular cells. By elucidating these mechanisms, this review aids a deeper understanding of the complex interactions between BPA and reproductive tissues.

Adverse outcomes of the newly emerging bisphenol A substitutes

BPA and its analogues are facing increasingly stringent regulations restricting their use due to the increasing knowledge of their harmful effects. It is therefore expected that novel BPA analogues and alternatives will replace them in plastic products, cans and thermal paper to circumvent restrictions imposed by legislation. This raises concerns about the safety of "BPA-free" products, as they contain BPA substitutes whose safety has not been sufficiently assessed prior to their market introduction. The regulatory agencies have recognised BPAP, BPBP, BPC2, BPE, BPFL, BPG, BPP, BPPH, BPS-MAE, BPS-MPE, BP-TMC, BPZ and the alternatives BTUM, D-90, UU and PF201 as compound with insufficient data regarding their safety. We demonstrate that the mentioned compounds are present in consumer products, food and the environment, thus exhibiting toxicological risk not only to humans, but also to other species where their toxic effects have already been described. Results of in silico, in vitro and in vivo studies examining the endocrine disruption and other effects of BPA analogues show that they disrupt the endocrine system by targeting various nuclear receptors, impairing reproductive function and causing toxic effects such as hepatotoxicity, altered behaviour and impaired reproductive function. In vitro and in vivo data on BPA alternatives are literally non-existent, although these compounds are already present in commonly used thermal papers. However, in silico studies predicted that they might cause adverse effects as well. The aim of this article is to comprehensively collate the information on selected BPA substitutes to illustrate their potential toxicity and identify safety gaps.

Bisphenols in daily clothes from conventional and recycled material: evaluation of dermal exposure to potentially toxic substances

Given the increasing concern about chemical exposure from textiles, our study examines the risks of dermal exposure to bisphenol A (BPA), bisphenol S (BPS), bisphenol B (BPB) and bisphenol F (BPF) from conventional and recycled textiles for adults, aiming to obtain new data, assess exposure, and evaluate the impact of washing on bisphenol levels. A total of 57 textile samples (33 from recycled and 24 from conventional material) were subjected to ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) followed by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry analysis (UHPLC-MS/MS). The BPA and BPS concentrations varied widely (BPA: < 0.050 to 625 ng/g, BPS: 0.277-2,474 ng/g). The median BPA content in recycled textiles (13.5 ng/g) was almost twice as high as that of 7.66 ng/g in conventional textiles. BPS showed a median of 1.85 ng/g in recycled textiles and 3.42 ng/g in conventional textiles, indicating a shift from BPA to BPS in manufacturing practices. Simulated laundry experiments showed an overall reduction in bisphenols concentrations after washing. The study also assessed potential health implications via dermal exposure to dry and sweat-wet textiles compared to a tolerable daily intake (TDI) of 0.2 ng/kg bw/day for BPA set by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Exposure from dry textiles remained below this threshold, while exposure from wet textiles often exceeded it, indicating an increased risk under conditions that simulate sweating or humidity. By finding the widespread presence of bisphenols in textiles, our study emphasises the importance of being aware of the potential risks associated with recycling materials as well as the benefits.

Efficient catalytic removal of phenolic pollutants by laccase from Coriolopsis gallica: Binding interaction and polymerization mechanism

Laccase is a green catalyst that can efficiently catalyze phenolic pollutants, and its catalytic efficiency is closely related to the interaction between enzyme and substrates. To investigate the binding effects between enzyme and phenolic pollutants, phenol, p-chlorophenol, and bisphenol A were used as substrates in this study. We focused on the removal and catalytic mechanism of these pollutants in water using yellow laccase derived from Coriolopsis gallica. The enzymatic catalytic products were characterized using Ultraviolet-Visible Absorption Spectroscopy (UV-Vis), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (HRMS), and the catalytic mechanism of laccase on phenolic pollutants was further explored by molecular docking. Based on the structural characterization and molecular docking results, the possible polymerization pathways of these phenolic compounds were speculated. Laccase catalyzed phenol to produce phenolic hydroxyl radicals, their para-radicals, and ortho-radicals, which polymerized to form oligomers linked by benzene‑oxygen-benzene and benzene-benzene. P-chlorophenol produced phenolic hydroxyl radicals and their ortho-radicals, polymerizing to form oligomers connected by benzene‑oxygen-benzene or benzene-benzene. The CC bond of the isopropyl group of bisphenol A broke to formed an intermediate product, which was further polymerized to formed a benzene‑oxygen-benzene linked oligomer.

Co-exposure to parabens, bisphenol A, and triclosan and the associations with dyslipidemia in Chinese older adults: the mediation effect of oxidative stress

Dyslipidemia is a prevalent metabolic disorder in older adults and has negative effects on cardiovascular health. However, the combined effect of paraben, bisphenol A (BPA), and triclosan (TCS) exposure on dyslipidemia and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This cross-sectional study recruited 486 individuals ≥60 years in Shenzhen, China. Morning spot urine samples were collected and analyzed for four parabens, BPA, TCS, and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), a typical biomarker for oxidative stress, using mass spectrometry. Blood samples were tested for lipid levels using an automated biochemical analyzer. Quantile-based g-computation (QGC) was used to assess the combined effects of exposures on dyslipidemia. Mediation analysis was applied to investigate the mediating role of 8-OHdG between exposure and dyslipidemia. QGC showed that co-exposure to parabens, BPA, and TCS was positively linked with hypercholesterolemia (OR: 1.17, 95%CI: 1.10-1.24, P<0.001) and hyper-LDL-cholesterolemia (OR: 1.35, 95%CI: 1.05-1.75, P=0.019). Methylparaben (MeP), n-propyl paraben (PrP), and butylparaben (BtP) were the major contributors. 8-OHdG mediated 6.5% and 13.0% of the overall effect of the examined chemicals on hypercholesterolemia and hyper-LDL-cholesterolemia, respectively (all P<0.05). Our study indicated that co-exposure to parabens, BPA, and TCS is associated with dyslipidemia and oxidative stress partially mediate the association. Future research is needed to explore additional mechanisms underlying these relationships.

Multiple-biomarker approach in the assessment of bisphenol A effect on the grooved carpet clam Ruditapes decussatus (Linnaeus, 1758)

BACKGROUND

Bisphenol A (BPA), a plastic additive monomer, is among the most highly produced chemicals worldwide, and is broadly used in many industries, such as food and beverage containers, milk bottles, and paper products. Previous studies demonstrated that BPA has potential toxicity to aquatic organisms, causing endocrine disturbance and behavioural disorders. The current work aimed to determine the toxic impacts of BPA on the edible marine clam Ruditapes decussatus considering a multi-biomarker approach (mortality, biochemical studies, DNA strand breaks using comet assay, and histopathological examinations with semi-quantitative and quantitative histopathological analyses). The clams were exposed under laboratory conditions to three concentrations of BPA (0 "control", 1, and 5 µg/L) for a period of 21 days. After the exposure period, BPA impacts were assessed in the digestive gland as a versatile and environmentally relevant organ for ecotoxicological studies.

RESULTS

In BPA-treated clams, mortality (10%) occurred only at the highest BPA concentration (5 µg/L). Biochemical impairments were detected in a concentration-dependent manner as a consequence of BPA exposure. There were significant increases in malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels, while catalase (CAT) activity was significantly reduced. Our results revealed that BPA induced neurotoxicity in R. decussatus, as evidenced by the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, DNA damage was strongly induced as BPA levels increased. Additionally, our results have been affirmed by alterations in digestive gland tissues at BPA treatments, which consequently can impair the clam's ability for food absorption; these alterations included mainly atrophic and necrotic digestive tubules, epithelial cell vacuolization, hemocyte infiltration, and intertubular fibrosis. Based on the data obtained from the semi-quantitative and quantitative histopathological analyses, the exposure of the clam's digestive gland to BPA with concentrations of 1 and 5 µg/L for 21 days showed significant histopathological alterations compared with the control clams.

CONCLUSION

The multi-biomarker approach used in the current study proved to be a useful tool for assessing the impact of diphenylmethane compounds, such as BPA. Water-borne BPA causes oxidative stress, neurotoxicity, genotoxicity, and deleterious effects on the clam digestive gland; all of these could deteriorate clam performance and health, causing tissue dysfunction.

Elucidation and active ingredient identification of aqueous extract of Ficus exasperata Vahl leaf against bisphenol A-induced toxicity through in vivo and in silico assessments

Bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine-disrupting chemical, poses significant health problems due to its induction of oxidative stress, inflammation, etc. Whereas Ficus exasperata Vahl leaf (FEVL) was reported for its ethnopharmacological properties against several ailments owing to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties, etc. Here, we aim to elucidate and identify the bioactive compounds of aqueous extract of FEVL (AEFEVL) against BPA-induced toxicity using in vivo and in silico assessments. To determine the BPA toxicity mechanism and safe doses of AEFEVL, graded doses of BPA (0-400 μM) and AEFEVL (0-2.0 mg/10 g diets) were separately fed to flies to evaluate survival rates and specific biochemical markers. The mitigating effect of AEFEVL (0.5 and 1.0 mg/10 g diet) against BPA (100 and 200 μM)-induced toxicity in the flies after 7-day exposure was also carried out. Additionally, molecular docking analysis of BPA and BPA-o-quinone (BPAQ) against selected antioxidant targets, and HPLC-MS-revealed AEFEVL compounds against Keap-1 and IKKβ targets, followed by ADMET analysis, was conducted. Emergence rate, climbing ability, acetylcholinesterase, monoamine oxidase-B, and glutathione-S-transferase activities, and levels of total thiols, non-protein thiols, nitric oxide, protein carbonyl, malondialdehyde, and cell viability were evaluated. BPA-induced altered biochemical and behavioral parameters were significantly mitigated by AEFEVL in the flies (p < 0.05). BPAQ followed by BPA exhibited higher inhibitory activity, and epigallocatechin (EGC) showed the highest inhibitory activity among the AEFEVL compounds with desirable ADMET properties. Conclusively, our findings revealed that EGC might be responsible for the mitigative effect displayed by AEFEVL in BPA-induced toxicity in D. melanogaster.

Graphical abstract

Prenatal low-dose Bisphenol A exposure impacts cortical development via cAMP-PKA-CREB pathway in offspring

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a widely used plasticizer known to cause various disorders. Despite a global reduction in the use of BPA-containing products, prenatal exposure to low-dose BPA, even those below established safety limits, has been linked to neurological and behavioral deficits in childhood. The precise mechanisms underlying these effects remain unclear. In the present study, we observed a significant increase in the number of cortical neurons in offspring born to dams exposed to low-dose BPA during pregnancy. We also found that this prenatal exposure to low-dose BPA led to increased proliferation but reduced migration of cortical neurons. Transcriptomic analysis via RNA sequencing revealed an aberrant activation of the cAMP-PKA-CREB pathway in offspring exposed to BPA. The use of H89, a selective PKA inhibitor, effectively rescued the deficits in both proliferation and migration of cortical neurons. Furthermore, offspring from dams exposed to low-dose BPA exhibited manic-like behaviors, including hyperactivity, anti-depressant-like responses, and reduced anxiety. While H89 normalized hyperactivity, it didn't affect the other behavioral changes. These results suggest that the overactivation of PKA plays a causative role in BPA-induced changes in neuronal development. Our data also indicate that manic-like behaviors induced by prenatal low-dose BPA exposure may be influenced by both altered neuronal development and abnormal PKA signaling in adulthood.

Assessing dietary bisphenol A exposure among Koreans: comprehensive database construction and analysis using the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Bisphenol A (BPA) exposure primarily occurs through dietary intake. This study aimed to estimate the extent of dietary BPA exposure among Koreans. A thorough literature search was conducted to establish a BPA content database encompassing common foods consumed in Korea, including various food raw materials and processed food products. Dietary exposure levels were estimated by integrating the constructed BPA database with comprehensive nationwide 24 h-dietary recall datasets. The finding revealed that dietary BPA exposure was low for most Koreans, with a mean of 14.5 ng/kg bw/day, but was higher for preschool-age children (over 23 ng). Canned foods accounted for 9-36% of the total dietary exposure of the highest dietary exposure groups; while across all age groups, a considerable amount was derived from canned tuna, contribution of canned fruits and canned coffee (milk-containing) was high for preschool-age children and adults, respectively. Notably, for adults, a substantial proportion also stemmed from beer packaged in cans. While diet contributed over 80% of aggregate exposure for most age groups, preschool-age children experienced 60% exposure through diet due to additional exposure from indoor dust. Even at the high exposure scenario, aggregate BPA exposure levels remained lower than the current tolerable daily intake (TDI) set by the Korean agency (20 μg/kg bw/day). Nevertheless, most Koreans were exposed to BPA levels surpassing the strictest TDI (0.2 ng/kg bw/day) set by the European Food Safety Authority.

Comparative in silico and in vitro evaluation of possible toxic effects of bisphenol derivatives in HepG2 cells

Introduction

Bisphenols are widely used in the production of polycarbonate plastics and resin coatings. Bisphenol A (BPA) is suggested to cause a wide range of unwanted effects and "low dose toxicity". With the search for alternative substances to BPA, the use of other bisphenol derivatives namely bisphenol F (BPF) and bisphenol S (BPS) has increased.

Methods

In the current study, we aimed to evaluate the in silico predicted inhibitory concentration 50s (pIC50s) of bisphenol derivatives on immune and apoptotic markers and DNA damage on HepG2 cells. Moreover, apoptotic, genotoxic and immunotoxic effects of BPA, BPF and BPS were determined comparatively. Effects of bisphenols on apoptosis were evaluated by detecting different caspase activities. The genotoxic effects of bisphenols were evaluated by measuring the levels of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and 8-oxoguanine glycosylase (OGG1). To determine the immunotoxic effect of bisphenol derivatives, the levels of interleukin 4 (IL-4) and interleukin 10 (IL-10), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), which are known to be expressed by HepG2 cells, were measured. Results: In silico data indicate that all of the bisphenols may cause alterations in immune and apoptotic markers as well as DNA damage at low doses. İn vitro data revealed that all bisphenol derivatives could affect immune markers at inhibitory concentration 30s (IC30s). In addition, BPF and BPS may also have apoptotic immunotoxic effects.

Conclusion

Both in silico and in vivo research are needed further to examine the toxic effects of alternative bisphenol derivatives.

Effects of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals on Bone Health

This comprehensive review critically examines the detrimental impacts of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) on bone health, with a specific focus on substances such as bisphenol A (BPA), per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), phthalates, and dioxins. These EDCs, by interfering with the endocrine system's normal functioning, pose a significant risk to bone metabolism, potentially leading to a heightened susceptibility to bone-related disorders and diseases. Notably, BPA has been shown to inhibit the differentiation of osteoblasts and promote the apoptosis of osteoblasts, which results in altered bone turnover status. PFASs, known for their environmental persistence and ability to bioaccumulate in the human body, have been linked to an increased osteoporosis risk. Similarly, phthalates, which are widely used in the production of plastics, have been associated with adverse bone health outcomes, showing an inverse relationship between phthalate exposure and bone mineral density. Dioxins present a more complex picture, with research findings suggesting both potential benefits and adverse effects on bone structure and density, depending on factors such as the timing and level of exposure. This review underscores the urgent need for further research to better understand the specific pathways through which EDCs affect bone health and to develop targeted strategies for mitigating their potentially harmful impacts.

Detrimental consequences of micropolymers associated plasticizers on endocrinal disruption

The prevalence of polymer usage in everyday activities has emerged as a detriment to both human life and the environment. A large number of studies describe severe impacts of micropolymers (MP) and nanopolymers (NP) on various organ systems, including the endocrine system. Additionally, plasticizers utilized as additives have been identified as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). MP/NP, along with associated plasticizers, affect principal signalling pathways of endocrine glands such as the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, and gonads, thereby disrupting hormone function and metabolic processes crucial for maintaining homeostasis, fertility, neural development, and fetal growth. This review delves into the sources, distribution, and effects of micropolymers, nanopolymers, and associated plasticizers acting as EDCs. Furthermore, it provides a detailed review of the mechanisms underlying endocrine disruption in relation to different types of MP/NP.

Effect of thyroid disruption on ovarian development following maternal exposure to Bisphenol S

Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in numerous physiological processes, including reproduction. Bisphenol S (BPS) is a structural analog of Bisphenol A known for its toxic effects. Interference of this substitute with normal thyroid function has been described. To investigate the effect of thyroid disruption on ovarian development following maternal exposure to BPS, female rats were exposed, daily, to either AT 1-850 (a thyroid hormone receptor antagonist) (10 nmol/rat) or BPS (0.2 mg/kg) during gestation and lactation. The effects on reproductive outcome, offspring development, histological structures, hormone levels, oxidative status, cytoskeleton proteins expression, and oocyte development gene expression were examined. Our results are in favor of offspring ovarian development disruption due to thyroid disturbance in adult pregnant females. During both fetal and postnatal stages, BPS considerably altered the histological structure of the thyroid tissue as well as oocyte and follicular development, which led to premature ovarian failure and stimulation of oocyte atresia, being accompanied with oxidative stress, hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis disorders, and cytoskeletal dynamic disturbance. Crucially, our study underscores that BPS may induce reproductive toxicity by blocking nuclear thyroid hormone receptors, evidenced by the parallelism and the perfect meshing between the data obtained following exposure to AT 1-850 and those after the treatment by this substitute.

Bisphenol a accelerates the glucolipotoxicity-induced dysfunction of rat insulinoma cell lines: An implication for a potential risk of environmental bisphenol a exposure for individuals susceptible to type 2 diabetes

Epidemiological studies have suggested a correlation between bisphenol A (BPA) and type 2 diabetes (T2DM). The effects of BPA on β-cell dysfunction may reveal the risks from an in vitro perspective. We used the rat insulinoma (INS-1) cell lines (a type of β-cells) to set up normal or damaged models (DM), which were exposed to various concentrations of BPA (0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 1, 10 and 100 μM). An increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis, and a decrease in cell viability were observed in INS-1 cells exposed to high doses of BPA for 48 h. Interestingly, exposure to lower doses of BPA for 24 h resulted in increased ROS levels and apoptosis rates in INS-1 in the DM group, along with decreased cell viability, suggesting that BPA exerts toxicity to INS-1 cells, particularly to the DM group. Insulin levels and Glut2 expression, glucose consumption, intracellular Ca2+ and insulin secretion were increased in INS-1 cells after 48 h exposure to high dose of BPA. Stronger effects were observed in the DM group, even those exposed to low doses of BPA for 24 h. Moreover, BPA inhibited high glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in these cells. Our research suggests that low doses of BPA exacerbate the dysfunction caused by glucolipotoxicity, implying environmental BPA exposure poses a risk for individuals with prediabetes or T2DM.

Associations of exposure to bisphenol-A or parabens with markers of liver injury/function among US adults in NHANES 2011-2016

BACKGROUND

Bisphenol-A (BPA) and parabens are common endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) that are used extensively in consumer products worldwide and are widely found in the environment.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to comprehensively explore the correlations between urinary BPA/parabens levels and liver injury/function markers.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, we used National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data from 2011 to 2016. The exposure variables were urinary BPA and four urinary parabens [methylparaben (MPB), ethylparaben (EPB), propylparaben (PPB), and butylparaben (BPB)], while the outcome variables were indicators of liver function/injury [alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), AST/ ALT, albumin (ALB), total protein (TP), total bilirubin (TBIL), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and the fibrosis-4 index (FIB-4)]. Multiple linear regression and weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression analyses were applied to explore the relationships between the individual/combined exposure variables and the liver injury/function indicators, respectively. Furthermore, stratified analysis was employed to detect the associations influenced by age and sex.

RESULTS

A total of 2,179 adults were eligible for the present analysis. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed positive associations of EPB with AST, ALT, TP, and FIB-4 scores and negative associations of BPA with TP and ALB. The effects of urinary parabens on adverse outcomes in the liver (AST and ALT) were significant in the female and middle-aged subgroups. In addition, the WQS analysis revealed that the mixture of four compounds was negatively associated with ALB. BPA had the greatest effect on the serum ALB concentration (weight = 0.688).

IMPACT

Our present study provided novel evidence of significant associations between BPA or certain parabens and numerous markers of liver injury/function indicators. We found that higher urinary BPA concentrations were associated with worse liver function. Exposure to high EPB/PPB ratios was significantly associated with biomarkers of liver injury.

Room temperature catalytic upgrading of unpurified lignin depolymerization oil into bisphenols and butene-2

Lignin is the largest source of renewable aromatics on earth. Despite numerous techniques for lignin depolymerization into mixtures of valuable monomers, methods for their upgrading into final products are scarce. The state of the art upgrading methods generally rely on catalytic funneling, requiring high temperatures, catalyst loadings and hydrogen pressure, and lead to the loss of functionality and bio-based carbon content. Here an alternative approach is presented, whereby the target monomers are selectively converted in unpurified mixtures into easily separable final products under mild conditions. We use reductive catalytic fractionation of wood to convert lignin into iso-eugenol and propenyl syringol enriched oil followed by an olefin metathesis to yield bisphenols and butene-2, thus, valorizing all bio-based carbons. To further demonstrate the synthetic utility of the obtained bisphenols we converted them into polyesters with a high glass transition temperature (Tg = 140.3 °C) and thermal stability (Td50% = 330 °C).

Thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy: the role of oxidative stress

Thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) is an autoimmune condition affecting the eyes, characterized by proptosis, extraocular muscle involvement, and in severe cases, vision impairment including diplopia, optic neuropathy, and potential blindness. The exact etiology of TAO remains elusive; however, increased oxidative stress and decreased antioxidant capacity are pivotal in its pathogenesis. Elevated oxidative stress not only directly damages orbital tissues but also influences thyroid function and autoimmune responses, exacerbating tissue destruction. This review explores the role of oxidative stress in TAO, elucidates its mechanisms, and evaluates the efficacy and limitations of antioxidant therapies in managing TAO. The findings aim to enhance understanding of oxidative stress mechanisms in TAO and propose potential antioxidant strategies for future therapeutic development.

Exposure to emissions generated by 3-dimensional printing with polycarbonate: effects on peripheral vascular function, cardiac vascular morphology and expression of markers of oxidative stress in male rat cardiac tissue

Three-dimensional (3D) printing with polycarbonate (PC) plastic occurs in manufacturing settings, homes, and schools. Emissions generated during printing with PC stock and bisphenol-A (BPA), an endocrine disrupter in PC, may induce adverse health effects. Inhalation of 3D printer emissions, and changes in endocrine function may lead to cardiovascular dysfunction. The goal of this study was to determine whether there were any changes in markers of peripheral or cardiovascular dysfunction in animals exposed to PC-emissions. Male Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to PC-emissions generated by 3D printing for 1, 4, 8, 15 or 30 d. Exposure induced a reduction in the expression of the antioxidant catalase (Cat) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNos). Endothelin and hypoxia-induced factor 1α transcripts increased after 30 d. Alterations in transcription were associated with elevations in immunostaining for estrogen and androgen receptors, nitrotyrosine, and vascular endothelial growth factor in cardiac arteries of PC-emission exposed animals. There was also a reduction eNOS immunostaining in cardiac arteries from rats exposed to PC-emissions. Histological analyses of heart sections revealed that exposure to PC-emissions resulted in vasoconstriction of cardiac arteries and thickening of the vascular smooth muscle wall, suggesting there was a prolonged vasoconstriction. These findings are consistent with studies showing that inhalation 3D-printer emissions affect cardiovascular function. Although BPA levels in animals were relatively low, exposure-induced changes in immunostaining for estrogen and androgen receptors in cardiac arteries suggest that changes in the action of steroid hormones may have contributed to the alterations in morphology and markers of cardiac function.

First evidence of plastics in coypu (Myocastor coypus)'s platforms

Platforms are structures built by coypus for various purposes, such as reproduction, resting, and thermoregulation. In a coastal wetland of central Italy, during a study aimed at investigating the characteristics of coypu's platforms, it was recorded, for the first time worldwide, the presence of plastic in these structures. Through a transect survey, we censused 83 platforms, among which three (3.61%) were found with presence of macro- and megaplastics (polystyrene, polypropylene, and low-density polyethylene in film form; polyester, polyamide, and expanded polystyrene in fragments). Through the FTIR spectra, it was possible to highlight the degradation of the polymeric materials. To stimulate possible in-depth investigations at the level of the food chain (e.g., coypu predators, including canids) in wet habitats, we discussed possible causes and implications of plastic presence in coypus' nest structures.

Covalent organic framework reinforced hollow fiber bar for extraction and detection of bisphenols from beverages

Bisphenols (BPs) can migrate from packaging materials into foods, resulting in potentially harmful residues. For example, accumulation of BPs is associated with endocrine disorders. Owing to matrix effects, development of an effective and eco-friendly sample pretreatment would be helpful for BPs detection in beverages packed in plastic containers. In this work, an extraction bar, composed of hollow fiber (HF) functionalized with covalent organic frameworks (COF@Tp-NDA) and 1-ocanol, was prepared for extraction of five BPs simultaneously. The synergistic effect of COF@Tp-NDA and 1-octanol improved the extraction efficiency of BPs from milk-based beverage, juice, and tea beverage. Under optimal conditions, limits of detection ranged from 0.10 to 2.00 ng mL-1 (R2 ≥ 0.9974) and recoveries ranged from 70.1 % to 106.8 %. This method has the potential to enrich BPs, supporting their accurate determination in complex beverages.

Bisphenol A and polycystic ovary syndrome in human: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder characterized by anovulation, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovarian morphology. Its etiology is uncertain and one of the hypotheses is that environmental factors, such as the bisphenol A (BPA) endocrine disruptor, may be involved.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between exposure to BPA and PCOS.

SEARCH STRATEGY

Research was conducted focusing on studies published in English, Portuguese, and Spanish from January 2001 to March 2023 and available in Embase, Medline/PubMed, Rima, Lilacs, Scielo, Google academic, and SCI databases.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Studies in humans that evaluated the association between exposure to BPA and a diagnosis of PCOS.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Following PRISMA guidelines, study characteristics and relevant data were extracted.

MAIN RESULTS

Selection of 15 case-control and 7 cross-sectional studies with a total of 1682 PCOS patients. The studies were carried out in China, Poland, Turkey, Japan, Greece, Italy, the USA, Iran, Iraq, Egypt, India, Czechia, and Slovakia. A positive relationship between exposure to BPA and PCOS was described in19 studies (1391 [82.70%] of the PCOS patients). The fluids used in the studies were serum, urine, plasma, and follicular fluid. BPA was measured by ELISA and by chromatography (HPLC, HPLC-MS/MS, GC-MS, and GC-MS/MS). Diagnosis of PCOS used Rotterdam criteria in 15, NIH 1999 in 3, AE&PCOS Society in 2, similar to the Rotterdam criteria in 1, and criteria not informed in 1. Androgens were measured in 16 studies; in 12, hyperandrogenism was positively associated with BPA. BPA level was related to body mass index (BMI) in studies. In 15 studies independently of BMI, women with PCOS had higher BPA levels. Carbohydrate metabolism disorders were evaluated in 12 studies and in 6 a positive correlation was found with BPA levels. Lipid profile was evaluated in seven studies and in only one the correlation between lipid profile and BPA levels was present.

CONCLUSIONS

Exposure to BPA is positively associated with PCOS, mainly with the hyperandrogenism.

Utility of a modified o-DGT passive sampler for measurement of bisphenol analogues in freshwater and coastal waters

Bisphenol analogues (BPs) are commonly found in riverine and coastal waters. However, the lack of a reliable and robust passive sampling method has hindered our ability to monitor these compounds in aquatic systems. The study developed a novel organic-diffusive gradients in thin film (o-DGT) sampler based on stainless steel mesh membrane, polyacrylamide diffusive gel, and hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) binding gel. This innovative design tackled issues of filter membrane sorption in traditional o-DGT devices and potential gel damage in membrane-less o-DGT devices, showing promising application prospects. The mass accumulation of 15 target BPs was linear over 10 days in both freshwater (r2 ≥ 0.92) and seawater (r2 ≥ 0.94), with no saturation observed. The diffusion coefficients (D) through polyacrylamide diffusive gels ranged from 4.04 × 10-6 to 5.77 × 10-6 cm2 s-1 in freshwater and from 1.74 × 10-6 to 4.69 × 10-6 cm2 s-1 in seawater for the target BPs (except for bisphenol PH) at 22 °C. The D values of the target BPs in seawater were lower than those in freshwater due to the high salinity in seawater (35 ‰). The o-DGT samplers demonstrated good integrity in field applications. The total concentrations of the eight detected BPs ranged from 9.2 to 323 ng L-1, which was consistent with the measurements obtained by grab sampling. Among all BPs, bisphenol S, bisphenol F, and bisphenol A were consistently detected at all sites using both sampling methods. The concentrations of some novel BPs in coastal water measured by grab sampling were comparable to those measured in rivers, suggesting the need to strengthen pollution control of BPs in coastal areas. These results indicate that the o-DGT passive sampling method developed in the present study can be effectively used for monitoring BPs in freshwater and coastal environments.

Enhancing the Catalytic Activity of Laccase@Copper-Metal-Organic Framework Nanofractal Microspheres: Synergistic Contribution of the Mass Transfer and Electron Transfer Pathway

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are limited by small pores and buried active sites, and their enzyme-like catalytic activity is still very low. Herein, laccase was employed as the organic component to construct laccase@Cu3(BTC)2 nanofractal microspheres. During the preparation process, laccase adsorbed Cu2+ by electrostatic attractive interaction, then combined with Cu2+ by coordination interaction, and finally induced the in situ growth of H3BTC2 in multiple directions by electrostatic repulsion. Interestingly, electrostatic repulsion was tuned efficiently by adjusting the Cu2+ concentration to obtain laccase@Cu3(BTC)2 nanofractal microspheres (nanosheet microspheres, nanorod microspheres, and nanoneedle microspheres). Laccase@Cu3(BTC)2 nanorod microspheres exhibited the highest catalytic efficiency, which was 14-fold higher than that of smooth microspheres. The mechanism of the improvement of catalytic activity in the degradation of BPA was proposed for the first time. The enhanced catalytic activity depended on the adsorption effect of the nanorod framework and dual cycle synergistic catalysis of Cu+/Cu2+ active sites, which accelerated substrate diffusion and electron transfer. The catalytic mechanism of enzyme@MOF nanofractal microspheres not only deepens our understanding of enzyme and MOF synergistic catalysis but also provides new insights into the design of catalysts.

Occurrence, efficiency of treatment processes, source apportionment and human health risk assessment of pharmaceuticals and xenoestrogen compounds in tap water from some Ghanaian communities

The occurrence of pharmaceuticals and xenoestrogen compounds (PXCs) in drinking water presents a dire human health risk challenge. The problem stems from the high anthropogenic pollution load on source water and the inefficiencies of the conventional water treatment plants in treating PXCs. This study assessed the PXCs levels and the consequential health risks of exposure to tap water from selected Ghanaian communities as well as that of raw water samples from the respective treatment plants. Thus the PXCs treatment efficiency of two drinking water treatment plants in the metropolises studied was also assessed. The study also conducted source apportionment of the PXCs in the tap water. Twenty six (26) tap and raw water samples from communities in the Cape Coast and Sekondi-Takoradi metropolises were extracted using SPE cartridges and analysed for PXCs using Ultra-fast-HPLC-UV instrument. Elevated levels of PXCs up to 24.79 and 22.02 μg/L were respectively recorded in raw and tap water samples from the metropolises. Consequently, elevated non-cancer health risk (HI > 1) to residential adults were found for tap water samples from Cape Coast metropolis and also for some samples from Sekondi-Takoradi metropolis. Again, elevated cumulative oral cancer risks >10-5 and dermal cancer risk up to 4 × 10-5 were recorded. The source apportionment revealed three significant sources of PXCs in tap water samples studied. The results revealed the inefficiency of the treatment plants in removing PXCs from the raw water during treatments. The situation thus requires urgent attention to ameliorate it, safeguarding public health. It is recommended that the conventional water treatment process employed be augmented with advanced treatment technologies to improve their efficacy in PXCs treatment.

Evaluation of the chronic toxicity of bisphenol A and bisphenol AF to sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus after long-term single and combined exposure at environmental relevant concentration

Bisphenols are emerging endocrine disrupting pollutant, and several studies have reported that they are already ubiquitous in various environmental matrices and intend to deposit in sediment. The primary sources of bisphenols are river and sewage discharge. Sea cucumber (Apostichopus japonicus), a typical deposit feeder, is one of the most important commercial marine species in Aisa. However, the effects of the bisphenol A (BPA) and its analogues bisphenol AF (BPAF) on sea cucumber was unclear. In this study, we carried out field survey in major sea cucumber farming areas in northern China, with the aim of determining which bisphenol analogue is the major bisphenol contamination in this aquaculture area. The results showed that the presence of BPAF was detected in four sampling sites (Dalian, Tangshan, Laizhou, and Longpan). The mean level of BPAF in Laizhou sediment samples was the highest which reached to 9.007 ± 4.702 μ g/kg. Among the seawater samples, the BPAF only have been detected in the samples collected at Longpan. (0.011 ± 0.003 μ g/L). Furthermore, we conducted an experiment to evaluate the single and combined toxicity of BPA and BPAF on sea cucumbers. The concentrations were informed by the findings based on the results of field research. (0.1, 1.0, and 10 μ g/L). After exposure, the body weight gain, and specific growth rate showed no significant changes (P > 0.05). We observed the histological alterations in respiratory tree of treated sea cucumbers including the fusion and detachment of lining epithelial tissue, and increase of lumen space. However, the catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH) activity was not significantly changed (P > 0.05). We evaluated the effects of BPA and BPAF through calculating the integrated biomarker response index (IBR), and the results indicated that the toxicity of combined treatment was higher than single treatment. Additionally, BPAF exposure to A. japonicus was more toxic than BPA.

Bisphenol A-What Do We Know? A Global or Local Approach at the Public Health Risk Level

BPA has demonstrated enormous multisystem and multi-organ toxicity shown mainly in animal models. Meanwhile, the effects of its exposure in humans still require years of observation, research, and answers to many questions. Even minimal and short-term exposure contributes to disorders or various types of dysfunction. It is released directly or indirectly into the environment at every stage of the product life cycle, demonstrating its ease of penetration into the body. The ubiquity and general prevalence of BPA influenced the main objective of the study, which was to assess the toxicity and health effects of BPA and its derivatives based on the available literature. In addition, the guidelines of various international institutions or regions of the world in terms of its reduction in individual products were checked. Bisphenol A is the most widely known chemical and perhaps even the most studied by virtually all international or national organizations, but nonetheless, it is still controversial. In general, the level of BPA biomonitoring is still too high and poses a potential threat to public health. It is beginning to be widely argued that future toxicity studies should focus on molecular biology and the assessment of human exposure to BPA, as well as its substitutes. The effects of its exposure still require years of observation, extensive research, and answers to many questions. It is necessary to continue to deepen the knowledge and interest of many organizations, companies, and consumers around the world in order to make rational purchases as well as future choices, not only consumer ones.

Lactiplantibacillus sp. D10-2: potential bacteria for eliminating bisphenol A and reducing BpA-induced lipid accumulation

Bisphenol A (BpA) is an endocrine-disrupting substance commonly found in plastics and resins. It is reported that BpA exposure induces lipid accumulation in humans, similar to obesogenic compounds. The main objective of this study is to investigate the removal of BpA using Lactiplantibacillus sp. D10-2, and to examine its potential for reducing BpA-induced lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 cell line model. The heat-dried cells of Lactiplantibacillus sp. D10-2 showed 69.7% removal efficiency for initial BpA concentration of 10 μg/mL, which was 30.5% higher than the live cells. The absence of metabolites or intermediates in BpA removal studies indicates that the Lactiplantibacillus sp. D10-2 strain removed BpA by adsorption process. The hydrophobic interactions of heat-dried Lactiplantibacillus sp. D10-2 cells were observed to be higher with 33.7% compared to live cells (15.0%), suggesting a stronger ability to bind with BpA. Although the BpA binding onto Lactiplantibacillus sp. D10-2 was not affected by pH, it was confirmed that as the temperature increases, the binding ability got decreased due to mass transfer and diffusion of BpA molecules. Treatment with Lactiplantibacillus sp. D10-2 (0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 1%) reduced lipid accumulation by 61.7, 58.0, 52.7 and 60.4% in 3T3-L1 cells exposed with BpA. In addition, it was confirmed that Lactiplantibacillus sp. D10-2 treatment suppressed the protein expression levels of lipogenesis-related PPARγ and C/EBPα in 3T3-L1 cells. The results of the study suggest that the Lactiplantibacillus sp. D10-2 strain can remove BpA and reduce BpA-accelerated lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 cells.

Reproductive toxic effects of chronic exposure to bisphenol A and its analogues in marine medaka (Oryzias melastigma)

As awareness of BPA's health risks has increased, many countries and regions have implemented strict controls on its use. Consequently, bisphenol analogues like BPF and BPAF are being increasingly used as substitutes. However, these compounds are also becoming increasingly prevalent in the environment due to production, use and disposal processes. The oceans act as a repository for various pollutants, and recent studies have revealed the extensive presence of bisphenols (BPs, including BPA, BPF, BPAF, etc.) in the marine environment, posing numerous health hazards to marine wildlife. Nevertheless, the reproductive toxicity of these chemicals on marine fish is not comprehensively comprehended yet. Thus, the histological features of the gonads and the gene expression profiles of HPG (Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal) axis-related genes in marine medaka (Oryzias melastigma) were studied after exposure to single and combined BPs for 70 days. The effects of each exposure group on spawning, embryo fertilization, and hatching in marine medaka were also assessed. Furthermore, the impacts of each exposure group on the genes related to methylation in the F2 and F3 generations were consistently investigated. BPs exposure was found to cause follicular atresia, irregular oocytes, and empty follicles in the ovary; but no significant lesions in the testis were observed. The expression of several HPG axis genes, including cyp19b, 17βhsd, 3βhsd, and fshr, resulted in significant changes compared to the control group. The quantity of eggs laid and fertilization rate decreased in all groups treated with BPs, with the BPAF-treated group showing a notable reduction in the number of eggs laid. Additionally, the hatching rate showed a more significant decline in the BPF-treated group. The analysis of methylated genes in the offspring of bisphenol-treated groups revealed significant changes in the expression of genes including amh, dnmt1, dnmt3ab, mbd2, and mecp2, indicating a potential transgenerational impact of bisphenols on phenotype through epigenetic modifications. Overall, the potential detrimental impact of bisphenol on the reproduction of marine medaka emphasizes the need for caution in considering the use of BPAF and BPF as substitutes.

Inhibition of reactive oxygen species generation by N-Acetyl Cysteine can mitigate male germ cell toxicity induced by bisphenol analogs

The estrogen-like effect of bisphenol A (BPA) disrupting the maintenance of functional male germ cells is associated with male sub-fertility. This study investigated toxicity of male germ cells induced by four bisphenol analogs: BPA, BPAF, BPF, and BPS. The investigation of bisphenol analogs' impact on male germ cells included assessing proliferation, apoptosis induction, and the capacity to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) in GC-1 spermatogonia (spg) cells, specifically type B spermatogonia. Additionally, the therapeutic potential and protective effects of N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) and NF-κB inhibitor parthenolide was evaluated. In comparison to BPA, BPF and BPS, BPAF exhibited the most pronounced adverse effect in GC-1 spg cell proliferation. This effect was characterized by pronounced inhibition of phosphorylation of PI3K, AKT, and mTOR, along with increased release of cytochrome c and subsequent cleavages of caspase 3, caspase 7, and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase. Both NAC and parthenolide were effective reducing cellular ROS induced by BPAF. However, only NAC demonstrated a substantial recovery in proliferation, accompanied by a significant reduction in cytochrome c release and cleaved PARP. These results suggest that NAC supplementation may play an effective therapeutic role in countering germ cell toxicity induced by environmental pollutants with robust oxidative stress-generating capacity.

Effects of salinity on behavior and reproductive toxicity of BPA in adult marine medaka

Salinity is an important environmental factor influencing the toxicity of chemicals. Bisphenol A (BPA) is an environmental endocrine disruptor with adverse effects on aquatic organisms, such as fish. However, the influence of salinity on the biotoxicity of BPA and the underlying mechanism are unclear. In this study, we exposed marine medaka (Oryzias melastigma) to BPA at different salinities (0 psμ, 15 psμ, and 30 psμ) for 70days to investigate the toxic effects. At 0 psμ salinity, BPA had an inhibitory effect on the swimming behavior of female medaka. At 15 psμ salinity, exposure to BPA resulted in necrotic cells in the ovaries but not on the spermatozoa. In addition, BPA exposure changed the transcript levels of genes related to the nervous system (gap43, elavl3, gfap, mbpa, and α-tubulin) and the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis (fshr, lhr, star, arα, cyp11a, cyp17a1, cyp19a, and erα); the expression changes differed among salinity levels. These results suggest that salinity influences the adverse effects of BPA on the nervous system and reproductive system of medaka. These results emphasize the importance of considering the impact of environmental factors when carrying out ecological risk assessment of pollutants.