Cytochrome P4501A2 constitutively expressed from transduced DNA mediates metabolic activation and DNA-adduct formation of aromatic amine carcinogens in NIH 3T3 cells

We transduced mouse cytochrome P4501A2 DNA into NIH 3T3 cells by retrovirus-mediated gene transfer. The capacity of the transduced cytochrome P4501A2 for metabolic activation and DNA-carcinogen adduct formation of aromatic amine carcinogens was investigated. Clones of NIH 3T3 cells that constitutively express cytochrome P4501A2 and controls were exposed to a prototype food-derived carcinogenic heterocyclic amine, 2-amino-3-methylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoline (IQ), and an aromatic amine, 2-acetylaminofluorene (AAF), and their genomic DNAs were analyzed for adducts by 32P-postlabeling assays. Kinetic analysis of DNA-carcinogen adducts indicated that adduct formation was dependent on the level of the enzyme, the dose of carcinogen, and the duration of exposure. Addition of 7,8-benzoflavone, an inhibitor of P4501A2, blocked both the enzyme activity and DNA-adduct formation, indicating the specific role of P4501A2 in metabolic activation and adduct formation. Three specific IQ-DNA adducts were detected in cells expressing P4501A2. Fingerprints of the in situ DNA adducts were similar to those of the in vivo adducts in rodent hepatic DNA after the administration of IQ. A single AAF-DNA adduct was observed in cells exposed to AAF, but other minor adducts were also detected in vivo. These results show that cells expressing constitutive levels of single cytochrome P450s provide an excellent in situ model system for analyzing the catalytic specificity, metabolic activation, and genotoxicity of putative toxic, mutagenic, and carcinogenic substances.

Effects of acidification on the availability of toxic metals and calcium to wild birds and mammals

The effects of acidification on wildlife inhabiting aquatic or semi-aquatic environments are reviewed, with particular reference to the possibility for increased dietary exposure to Hg, Cd, Pb and/or Al, and decreased availability of essential dietary minerals such as Ca. It is concluded that: (1) piscivores risk increased exposure to dietary methyl-Hg in acidified habitats, and Hg concentrations in prey may reach levels known to cause reproductive impairment in birds and mammals; (2) piscivores do not risk increased exposure to dietary Cd, Pb or Al because these metals are either not increased in fish due to acidification, or increase are trivial from a toxicological perspective; (3) insectivores and omnivores may, under certain conditions, experience increased exposure to toxic metals in some acidified environments. Exposure levels are likely to be sufficiently low, however, that significant risks to health or reproduction are unlikely. More importantly, these wildlife species may experience a drastic decrease in the availability of dietary Ca due to the pH-related extinction of high-Ca aquatic invertebrate taxa (molluscs, crustaceans). Decreased availability of dietary Ca is known to adversely affect egg laying and eggshell integrity in birds, and the growth of hatchling birds and neonatal mammals. Acidification-related changes in the dietary availability of other essential elements, such as Mg, Se and P, have not been established and require further investigation; (4) herbivores may risk increased exposure to Al and Pb, and perhaps Cd, in acidified environments because certain macrophytes can accumulate high concentrations of these metals under acidic conditions. The relative importance of pH in determining the metal concentrations of major browse species, and the toxicological consequences for herbivores wildlife, is not well established and requires further study. A decreased availability of dietary Ca is also likely for herbivores inhabiting acidified environments.

Aflatoxins in food: occurrence, biosynthesis, effects on organisms, detection, and methods of control

Aflatoxins are secondary metabolites produced by species of Aspergilli, specifically Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. These molds are ubiquitous in nature and grow on a variety of substrates, thereby producing aflatoxins. Aflatoxins are of great concern due to their biochemical and biological effects on living organisms. In this article, the occurrence of aflatoxins, their biosynthesis, factors influencing their production, their effects on living organisms, and methods of detection and control in food are reviewed. Future areas of research involving mathematical modeling of factors influencing aflatoxin production and alternative methods of control, such as modified atmosphere packaging, are also discussed.

Characterization of oxygen-resistant Chinese hamster ovary cells. III. Relative resistance of succinate and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenases to hyperoxic inactivation

We have recently shown that exposure of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells to a toxic dose of normobaric hyperoxia (98% O2 for 3 days) caused a disturbance of cellular energy metabolism, that is, respiratory failure followed by stimulation of glycolytic activity and a net depletion of ATP. Respiratory failure was correlated with a selective inactivation of three mitochondrial enzymes, that is, partial inactivation of NADH dehydrogenase and virtually complete inactivation of succinate and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase activities (Schoonen et al., 1990). To elucidate the biochemical basis of resistance to hyperoxia in a previously described oxygen-resistant substrain of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, we compared the resistant cells with wildtype CHO cells with respect to several key parameters of oxidative and glycolytic energy metabolism. The two cell types were critically different in that the succinate and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenases of the oxygen-resistant cells were relatively resistant to inactivation by hyperoxia, which may at least partly explain their enhanced capacity to respire and survive under hyperoxic conditions. Although the biochemical basis for the observed enzyme resistance to hyperoxic inactivation remains to be elucidated, the present data underscore the importance of succinate and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenases as critical targets in hyperoxic killing of wildtype CHO cells.

Assessing the efficacy of an Aroclor 1254-induced exogenous metabolic activation system for FETAX

The developmental toxicity of N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) and trichloroethylene (TCE) was assessed with Frog Embryo Teratogenesis Assay: Xenopus (FETAX). Late Xenopus laevis blastulae were exposed to NDMA and TCE for 96-h in two separate static-renewal tests with and without the presence of three differently induced exogenous metabolic activation systems (MAS). The MAS consisted of Aroclor 1254-induced (Aroclor 1254 MAS), isoniazid-induced (INH MAS), and a post-isolation mixture (mixed MAS) of Aroclor 1254- and isoniazid-induced rat liver microsomes. Addition of the INH MAS and the mixed MAS increased the Teratogenic Index [TI = LC50/EC50 (malformation)] of NDMA and TCE nearly 2.0- and 2.1-fold and 2.1- and 1.7-fold, respectively. Inclusion of the Aroclor 1254 MAS did not alter the developmental toxicity of either compound. Based on TI values, embryo growth, and types and severity of induced malformations, both NDMA and TCE were developmentally toxic. Use of post-microsome isolation mixtures from differentially induced rat livers increased the efficacy of the exogenous MAS routinely used by FETAX.

Teratogenicity of cobalt chloride in Xenopus laevis, assayed by the FETAX procedure

The teratogenicity of cobalt chloride (CoCl2) was tested by the FETAX (Frog Embryo Teratogenesis Assay: Xenopus) procedure in the South African frog, Xenopus laevis. In five assays, beginning at 5 h post-fertilization, groups of Xenopus embryos were incubated for 96 h in media that contained CoCl2 at concentrations ranging from 1.8 x 10(-6) to 1.8 x 10(-2) mol/L; control groups were incubated in the same medium without added CoCl2. At 101 h post-fertilization, surviving embryos were counted, fixed in formalin, and examined by microscopy to score malformations and measure head-to-tail lengths. In control embryos, survival was greater than or equal to 95% and malformations were less than or equal to 5%. Malformations were found in greater than 99% of embryos exposed to Co2+ levels greater than or equal to 56 mumol/L. Co2+)-exposed embryos showed a concentration-related pattern of malformations, comprising gut malrotation, ocular anomalies, kinked tail, craniofacial dysplasia, cardiac deformities, and dermal blisters. Other concentration-dependent abnormalities, not categorized as malformations, included stunted growth, edema, ventral distention, and hypopigmentation. The median embryolethal concentration (LC50) of CoCl2 was 10.4 (SE +/- 0.4) mmol/L; the median teratogenic concentration (EC50) was 25 (SE +/- 2) mumol/L; the teratogenic index (TI = LC50/EC50) was 416 (SE +/- 13), indicating that CoCl2 is a potent teratogen for Xenopus laevis.

Analytical studies on tobacco-specific N-nitrosamines in tobacco and tobacco smoke

Chemical-analytical studies have led to the identification of approximately 3000 compounds in tobacco and 4000 in tobacco smoke. These include carcinogens in processed tobacco as well as tumor initiators, tumor promoters, cocarcinogens, and organ-specific carcinogens in tobacco smoke. The latter group includes N-nitrosamines, in particular those that derive from nicotine and other tobacco alkaloids, the TSNA. In vitro nitrosation of nicotine yields NNN, NNA, and NNK. Nitrosation of other tobacco alkaloids leads to the formation of NAT, and NAB. Our analytical studies using GC-TEA have led to the identification of seven TSNA in tobacco and tobacco smoke. In addition to NNN, NAT, NAB, and NNK, we also identified NNAL, iso-NNAL, and, most recently, iso-NNAC. Their levels range from 0.01 to 92 ppm in tobacco and from 6 to 530 ng/cigarette in tobacco smoke. The high levels observed in snuff are primarily due to fermentation and aging. Technological methods exist today to reduce the levels of TSNA in both tobacco and cigarette smoke.

Dose response study of N-nitrosodiethanolamine initiation of rat hepatocarcinogenesis

Initiating activity of N-nitrosodiethanolamine (NDELA) for rat liver carcinogenesis was investigated using an 8-weeks bioassay system. Male F344 rats were initially treated with a single intraperitoneal injection of NDELA at one of five dose levels: 1,600, 800, 400, 200, or 100 mg/kg. Two weeks later, the rats were placed on 0.02% 2-acetylaminofluorene (2-AAF) or 0.05% phenobarbital (PB) containing diet for 6 weeks. All animals were subjected to 2/3 partial hepatectomy 4 weeks after the NDELA treatment, and killed at the end of the eighth week. NDELA itself exerted low toxicity in terms of body weight gain. Clear dose-dependent initiating activity of NDELA was observed in terms of development of glutathione S-transferase placental form (GST-P) positive liver cell foci, this being more apparent with PB promotion than with 2-AAF where the enhancing regimen itself caused multiple lesion development. Initiating potential of NDELA, however, was much lower than that observed for diethylnitrosamine in our previous work.

Chronic toxicity/carcinogenicity studies of cocoa powder in rats

Cocoa powder (CP) was fed at levels of 0.0 (control), 1.5, 3.5 and 5.0% for 104 wk to male and female Sprague-Dawley rats derived from the F3b generation of a multigeneration study using the same CP diets. Initial methylxanthine intake was high in all treatment groups, but steadily declined until wk 26. The high dose level provided a mean methylxanthine intake of approximately 57 mg/kg body weight/day for males and 74 mg/kg body weight/day for females from wk 26 to wk 104 of the study. Compared with controls, the historical trend of methylxanthine-associated growth stimulation was evident in rats consuming diets containing 1.5% CP, while body weight was reduced in rats consuming diets containing 3.5 and 5.0% CP. Survival rates were similar in control and CP-fed rats. No evidence of treatment-related clinical disease or ocular effects was noted. An increased incidence of bilateral testicular atrophy and aspermatogenesis was present in males consuming diets containing 5.0% CP. Non-suppurative myocarditis and interstitial fibrosis of the heart were also increased in incidence in both sexes receiving diets containing 5.0% CP. The overall incidences of both pelvic dilatation and renal pelvic microcalculi were increased in most treatment groups. Although there was no difference in the incidence of benign mammary gland fibroadenomas in female rats between the control group and any CP-fed group, a marginally significant (P = 0.04) trend test was apparent. The significance of this finding is doubtful, since the incidence of this lesion in the highest dose group was well within the historical control range for this strain of rats. No evidence of carcinogenicity from dietary CP was found in either sex.

Capsicum--production, technology, chemistry, and quality. Part V. Impact on physiology, pharmacology, nutrition, and metabolism; structure, pungency, pain, and desensitization sequences

The spice Capsicum is the fruit of the cultivated species of the genus Capsicum (family, Solanaceae), C. annuum principally, and C. frutescens L. to a lesser extent. A third variety of C. annuum var. annuum fruits, the large-sized, fleshy bell capsicum is used as a fresh vegetable and valued for its aroma, color, and crisp texture, but with no pungency. This variety is not considered in this series of reviews covering primary processing, production, international trade, chemistry, and biochemistry of functional components--the red keto carotenoids, the aromatic volatiles and the pungent capsaicinoids in Parts I to III. The valid qualitative aspects correlating the specific components of capsicum and their sensory responses are critically covered in Part IV. In this the concluding part of the series of reviews, the significant preference of the spice for initially evoking an aversive response, its potent physiological and pharmacological effects, and the aspects of structure-activity relationships of the pungent stimuli of the capsaicinoids are reviewed. The beneficial effects particularly associated with long usage by some ethnic groups and its safe consumption levels, with a critical review of the studies on the gastrointestinal tract, the cardiovascular system, the sensory system, thermoregulation, nutritional impacts, and an overview of the five series is also detailed.

Contribution of the glutathione S-transferases to the mechanisms of resistance to aflatoxin B1

The harmful effects of Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) are a consequence of it being metabolized to AFB1-8,9-epoxide, a compound that serves as an alkylating agent and mutagen. The toxicity of AFB1 towards different cells varies substantially; sensitivity can change significantly during development, can be modulated by treatment with xenobiotics and is decreased markedly in preneoplastic lesions as well as in tumors. Three types of resistance, namely intrinsic, inducible and acquired, can be identified. The potential resistance mechanisms include low capacity to form AFB1-8,9-epoxide, high detoxification activity, increase in AFB1 efflux from cells and high DNA repair capacity. Circumstantial evidence exists that amongst these mechanisms the glutathione S-transferases, through their ability to detoxify AFB1-8,9-epoxide, play a major role in determining the sensitivity of cells to AFB1.

A review of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin-induced changes in immunocompetence: 1991 update

2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, more popularly called dioxin or TCDD and referred to in this review as 2,3,7,8-TCDD, is considered the prototype of the polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDD). The PCDD are true contaminants and are formed primarily as byproducts in the manufacture of materials requiring the use of chlorinated phenols and during the combustion of chlorinated chemical products. From an environmental perspective, the PCDD have been most closely associated with the use of a number of phenolic herbicides, including Agent Orange, which is a 1:1 mixture of the butyl esters of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4,5-T). 2,3,7,8-TCDD and related PCDD are not produced commercially except in small amounts for research purposes and to date, have no known human benefit. 2,3,7,8-TCDD has been demonstrated to be the most potent and the most biologically active congener among the halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons (HAH), which include polychlorinated and polybrominated biphenyls (PCB and PBB, respectively) and the polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDF), in addition to the PCDD. An updated review on the effects of 2,3,7,8-TCDD on immunocompetence is timely from a number of perspectives. First, effects on immune function have been demonstrated to be among the earliest and most sensitive indicators of 2,3,7,8-TCDD-induced toxicity. Second, recent evidence indicates that exposure to 2,3,7,8-TCDD causes changes in innate immunity in addition to the changes in acquired immunity (i.e., which include effects on both cell-mediated and humoral immunity) previously shown to be associated with this chemical. Third, effects on immune function are almost universally observed among the animal species in which it has been evaluated, including some non-human primates. Fourth, effects of 2,3,7,8-TCDD on specific indicators of immune function have been correlated with changes in host resistance capabilities, which are often considered to be more holistic indicators of immunocompetence. Fifth, there are several reports which describe possible effects of 2,3,7,8-TCDD and related compounds (i.e., primarily PBB and PCB) on immune function in humans. It is important to emphasize at the onset that these studies have triggered much controversy, both political and scientific. However, it is equally important to speculate that at least part of the controversy associated with man's sensitivity to the immunological effects of 2,3,7,8-TCDD may be that the most appropriate approaches have heretofore not been applied. This possibility is discussed further in this review.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Therapeutic potential of plant photosensitizers

Many bioactive phytochemicals have been shown in recent years to be photosensitizers, i.e. their toxic activities against viruses, micro-organisms, insects or cells are dependent on or are augmented by light of certain wavelengths. These activities are often selective, and this has led to the concept of therapeutic prospects in the control of infectious diseases, pests and cancer. Reaction mechanisms commonly involve singlet oxygen and radicals, which are thought to cause photodamage to membranes or macromolecules. The main classes of plant photosensitizers reviewed here are polyyines (acetylenes, thiophenes and related compounds); furanyl compounds; beta-carbolines and other alkaloids; and complex quinones. We propose that within each group of phytochemicals there are several representatives that merit further study for therapeutic abilities in appropriate animal models.

Expression of N-acetyl transferase in a human monocytic cell-line, U937

1. N-acetyl transferase (NAT) catalyses the acetylation of arylamine and hydrazine drugs and other xenobiotics. The activity of one isozyme (polymorphic NAT) varies amongst individuals but the other (monomorphic NAT) does not. 2. The human monocytic cell-line U937 transcribes the gene for monomorphic N-acetyl transferase. 3. Although the gene for polymorphic N-acetyl transferase is present in these cells, its expression is not detected. 4. It is concluded that U937 cells are a useful model for studying the metabolism of arylamines and hydrazines by human monomorphic N-acetyl transferase.

The effect of di(ethylhexyl)phthalate on fatty acid oxidation and carnitine palmitoyltransferase in various rat tissues

Male rats were fed a diet with or without 2% di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) for 12 days. Total and peroxisomal oxidation rates of palmitic and arachidonic acid were increased in homogenates of liver and kidney after DEHP administration. The relative peroxisomal contribution to the total oxidation was only higher in liver. The activities of acyl-CoA oxidase and carnitine palmitoyltransferase were also higher in both tissues. Immunoblots showed that the increase of fatty acid oxidation was associated with a higher concentration of enzymes of peroxisomal and mitochondrial beta-oxidation. DEHP did not change total and peroxisomal fatty acid oxidation and activity of carnitine palmitoyltransferase of homogenates of heart and skeletal muscle. The cause for the tissue-specific response is discussed.

Effects of phenobarbital and beta-naphthoflavone on the in vivo toxicity and in vitro metabolism of aflatoxin in an aflatoxin-resistant and control line of chickens

The in vivo toxicity of aflatoxin and the in vitro microsomal metabolism of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) were investigated in a population of chickens previously selected for resistance to aflatoxin (AR line) and a corresponding control population (NS line) after in vivo pretreatment with saline, sodium phenobarbital (PB), or beta-naphthoflavone (BNF) solutions. PB pretreatment increased survival and BNF pretreatment increased mortality in both the NS and AR lines when a single oral dose of aflatoxin was administered. The rate of in vitro metabolism of AFB1 was greater with microsomes from saline pretreated AR chicks than with microsomes from similarly treated NS chicks. In vivo pretreatment with PB increased AFB1 metabolism by NS and AR microsomes. After BNF pretreatment of vivo, AR microsomes metabolized more AFB1 than NS microsomes, and there was a dramatic decrease in AFB1 metabolism in NS microsomes. AFB1-dihydrodiol was the major metabolite produced by both lines, with aflatoxin M1 and aflatoxin Q1 recovered in small quantities from BNF-pretreated AR microsomal incubations only. These data indicate that increased in vivo resistance of the AR line to acute aflatoxicosis may be related to increased hepatic AFB1 metabolism and that genetic selection has resulted in altered in vitro quantitative and qualitative metabolism of AFB1 in the AR line.

Mitochondrial respiratory inhibition by N-methylated beta-carboline derivatives structurally resembling N-methyl-4-phenylpyridine

Mitochondrial accumulation and respiratory inhibition are critical steps in the actions of N-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium ion (MPP+), the toxic metabolite of the parkinsonism-inducing agent, N-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine. We examined the respiratory characteristics of 2-methylated beta-carbolines (2-Me beta Cs) and 2-methylated 3,4-dihydro-beta-carbolines (2-MeDH beta Cs), which encompass the MPP+ structure. As indoleamine derivatives, they could have endogenous roles in idiopathic parkinsonism. With rat liver mitochondria, the order for inhibition of NAD(+)-linked O2 consumption (6-min preincubations) was as follows: MPP+ = 2-methylharmine greater than 2-methylharmol = 2-methylharmaline much greater than 2-methylharmalol greater than 2-methylnorharman greater than 6-OH-2-methylharmalan much greater than 2-methylharman. Similar to MPP+, 2-MeDH beta C/2-Me beta C inhibition was potentiated by tetraphenylboron and reversed by dinitrophenol, consistent with the involvement of cationic forms. However, the participation of neutral forms was indicated by the 2-MeDH beta C/2-Me beta C inhibitory time courses, which were unlike MPP+. The neutral forms probably arise via indolic nitrogen deprotonation because the characteristics of a cationic beta-carboline that cannot N-deprotonate, 2,9-dimethylnorharman, mirrored MPP+ rather than 2-Me beta Cs. Succinate-supported respiration was also significantly blocked by 2-MeDH beta Cs/2-Me beta Cs, but results with tetraphenylboron and 2,9-dimethylnorharman indicated that cationic forms were less important than in the inhibition of NAD(+)-linked respiration. We suggest that the relatively potent inhibition by certain 2-MeDH beta Cs/2-Me beta Cs involves neutral forms for passive mitochondrial entry and cationic as well as neutral forms that act at several respiratory sites. Respiratory inhibition could reasonably underlie the reported neurotoxicity of 2-Me beta Cs.

Interactions between N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine and fluorescent calcium probes: implications for mechanistic toxicology

Intracellular free calcium ([Ca2+]i) homeostasis has been implicated as an early target in both cellular necrosis and apoptosis. In this study, we have used peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) as target cells to investigate the effects of several reactive metabolites associated with drug toxicity on [Ca2+]i in order to delineate further early events in cytotoxicity. Compounds implicated in both drug-induced necrosis (N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine; NAPQI) and drug hypersensitivity (sulfamethoxazole hydroxylamine; SMX-HA) were examined and their effects on [Ca2+]i compared with those of the T cell mitogen phytohemagglutinin (PHA; 1.5 micrograms/ml) and the calcium ionophore ionomycin (2.5 microM). PHA and ionomycin produced characteristic elevations in [Ca2+]i as monitored by an increase in the fluorescence of fluo-3-loaded cells. SMX-HA did not significantly affect [Ca2+]i at concentrations previously shown to be cytotoxic to PBMC (100 and 500 microM), suggesting that Ca2+ homeostasis is not an early target for SMX-HA toxicity. Addition of NAPQI (250 microM) to fluo-3-loaded cells produced a marked decrease in fluorescence which was not reversed by ionomycin. Conversely, addition of NAPQI to cells loaded with indo-1 resulted in a rapid increase in fluorescence. This effect, however, was found to be attributable to NAPQI addition per se rather than to an increase in [Ca2+]i. HPLC and fluorescence analysis of samples generated from the decomposition of NAPQI revealed the presence of several products which fluoresced intensely at the excitation/emission wavelength pairs of a number of fluorescent probes commonly used to monitor [Ca2+]i.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Immunohistochemical demonstration of cytochrome P-450 monooxygenase in regenerating tracheal epithelium: a recapitulation of fetal development

The cytochrome P-450 monooxygenase enzymes, NADPH-reductase and form 2, were demonstrated immunohistochemically in hamster tracheal epithelium that was regenerating after mechanical injury. Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU), a thymidine analogue, was used to map the location and extent of the wound sites between 8 and 144 h post-injury. In the control and non-wounded areas of the epithelium, the secretory cells were labelled for the monooxygenase enzymes. Label was heaviest in the apical cytoplasm of these columnar cells. At 8 h, secretory cells at the wound margins migrated to cover the wound sites, becoming progressively flattened. Reaction product for monooxygenase enzymes was strong in these flat cells but immunolabelling for BrdU was very low. At 24 h many cells at the wound sites were labelled for BrdU (indicative of a high rate of cell division). Some cells were labelled for monooxygenase but many were not stained at this time. At 48 and 72 h post-injury, none of the cells within the wound sites (regenerating epithelium) were stained. Immunochemical labelling for the monooxygenase enzymes was restored to the nascent secretory cells as they differentiated in the wound sites, beginning at 96 h post-injury. Labelling was stronger at 120 and 144 h post-injury, comparable to that in the control epithelium. The observations suggest that the monooxygenase enzymes were retained by the secretory cells in the wound sites before they divided but were lost from their progeny. Then, the temporal sequence of monooxygenase expression was similar to the pattern of differentiation of nascent secretory cells during fetal development of the tracheal epithelium.

Dithiothreitol liberates non-acid labile sulfide from brain tissue of H2S-poisoned animals

Acid-labile sulfide measured by conventional gas dialysis and ion chromatography with electrochemical detection accounts for only a proportion of the total sulfide present in brain tissue after poisoning with NaHS, an H2S precursor. Dithiothreitol (DTT) displaced additional measurable sulfide not detectable by the conventional techniques from NaHS-poisoned brain tissue. Sulfide liberation by DTT was dose-dependent and maximal at higher DTT concentration (10 and 30 mM) and was thought to represent non-acid labile sulfide. Dithiothreitol was also found to be significantly protective against H2S poisoning. Furthermore, in vitro inhibition by sulfide of monoamine oxidase (MAO) was reversed by DTT, thus suggesting a molecular mechanism consistent with known persulfide chemistry. Persulfide formation may thus underlie some aspects of hydrogen sulfide neurotoxicity. The rational development of antidotes for use in H2S poisoning may thus have to be centered on strategies concentrating on known thiol, disulfide and persulfide chemistry.

Design of toxicokinetic studies

1. Toxicokinetics is defined as pharmacokinetic studies in animals during actual toxicity studies or under conditions mimicking them (species, duration, dose level, etc.). 2. Toxicology studies require toxicokinetics to check whether systemic exposure reflects administered dose. In particular, it is important to know whether the absence of toxicity at a given dose is due to the innocuousness of the compound or to its poor bioavailability. 3. Pivotal toxicology studies may require different toxicokinetic support than that of early studies, as more is learned of the compound and its metabolites. Considerations need to be placed on such factors as the choice of biological matrix for drug assay, the relevance of metabolites, and which dose levels require the most pharmacokinetic investigation.

Effects of lipoic acid in hexacarbon-induced neuropathy

The effects of lipoic acid on hexacarbon neurotoxicity in rats were investigated. Rats were exposed by inhalation to n-hexane for 24 hours/day, 7 days/week, up to a total period of 9 weeks. Eight animals were exposed to 700 ppm n-hexane only, and eight animals were exposed to 700 ppm n-hexane and additionally received 100 mumol/kg lipoic acid PO daily. Clinical status of the animals was evaluated by examination of general condition, motor performance tests and neurophysiological measurements of caudal nerve motor conduction velocity. Results showed that animals exposed to 700 ppm n-hexane developed severe motor neuropathy leading to paralysis by the 6th week. Motor distal latencies of these animals were severely prolonged. In contrast, in animals treated with lipoic acid the onset of motor neuropathy was delayed for approximately 3 weeks as could be demonstrated by motor performance tests and measurements of motor distal latencies.

Chlorophenol degradation coupled to sulfate reduction

We studied chlorophenol degradation under sulfate-reducing conditions with an estuarine sediment inoculum. These cultures degraded 0.1 mM 2-, 3-, and 4-chlorophenol and 2,4-dichlorophenol within 120 to 220 days, but after refeeding with chlorophenols degradation took place in 40 days or less. Further refeeding greatly enhanced the rate of degradation. Sulfate consumption by the cultures corresponded to the stoichiometric values expected for complete oxidation of the chlorophenol to CO2. Formation of sulfide from sulfate was confirmed with a radiotracer technique. No methane was formed, verifying that sulfate reduction was the electron sink. Addition of molybdate, a specific inhibitor of sulfate reduction, inhibited chlorophenol degradation completely. These results indicate that the chlorophenols were mineralized under sulfidogenic conditions and that substrate oxidation was coupled to sulfate reduction. In acclimated cultures the three monochlorophenol isomers and 2,4-dichlorophenol were degraded at rates of 8 to 37 mumol liter-1 day-1. The relative rates of degradation were 4-chlorophenol greater than 3-chlorophenol greater than 2-chlorophenol, 2,4-dichlorophenol. Sulfidogenic cultures initiated with biomass from an anaerobic bioreactor used in treatment of pulp-bleaching effluents dechlorinated 2,4-dichlorophenol to 4-chlorophenol, which persisted, whereas 2,6-dichlorophenol was sequentially dechlorinated first to 2-chlorophenol and then to phenol.

Effects of prolonged treatment with phthalate ester on rat liver

Rats were fed a diet containing 2%, 0.2% or 0.02% di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) for a period of 102 weeks. Only the 2% diet caused a substantial decrease in body weight. Both peroxisomal palmitoyl-CoA dehydrogenase and mitochondrial carnitine acetyltransferase activities were greatly induced by exposure to the highest dose of phthalate ester, reaching maximal plateau values after about 20 weeks of treatment. The diet containing 0.2% DEHP increased both activities slowly, but continuously, and at the end of the two-year period these increases were almost comparable to those obtained with the highest dose. Even the lowest dose gave a slowly increase in these activities. Both microsomal NADPH-cytochrome c reductase activity and the level of cytochrome P-450 were increased initially by exposure to 2% DEHP, but returned almost or completely to the control level after about 30 weeks of exposure. Depending on the dose of DEHP in the diet, peroxisomal catalase activity was elevated above the control level during the first year of treatment but was about the same as in the control animals during the second year. A substantial decrease in peroxisomal urate oxidase activity was observed throughout the entire experimental period. When treatment was ceased after one year, all activities returned to the control values within 2-3 weeks. These results demonstrate the complex nature of the effects caused by prolonged treatment with DEHP with cumulative increases at low doses.

Fatty acid supplementation protects pulmonary artery endothelial cells from oxidant injury

Although supplemental fatty acids have been shown to alter the susceptibility of experimental animals to oxidant gases, the relationship between the degree of tissue fatty acyl unsaturation and resistance to oxidant exposure remains undefined. Because vascular endothelial cells have been demonstrated to be sensitive cellular targets in oxidant-induced lung injury, we evaluated the effects of a supplemental fatty acid on the lipid composition and oxidant susceptibility of pulmonary artery endothelial cells (PAEC) in monolayer culture. PAEC were incubated in culture medium supplemented with an ethanolic solution of 0.1 mM cis-vaccenic acid (CVA), an 18-carbon monounsaturated fatty acid, or with the ethanol vehicle alone for 3 h. Cells were then exposed to either control or oxidant (hyperoxia: 95% O2; or hydrogen peroxide: 100 microM) conditions. Oxidant-induced cell injury was assessed by phase-contrast microscopy and by measuring the release of intracellular lactate dehydrogenase. Incubation with CVA increased the CVA content of PAEC lipids and protected cells from oxidant-induced injury for up to 72 h after supplementation. CVA had no effect on nonoxidant-induced cell injury. Although the mechanism by which CVA protects cells against oxidant injury remains undefined, evidence is presented that indicates the mechanism does not involve induction of antioxidant enzyme activity, alterations in the physical state of PAEC membranes, or enhancement of PAEC nucleic acid repair mechanisms. These results define a useful model for exploring the relationship between lipid composition and oxidant susceptibility and suggest that fatty acid modifications may constitute an important strategy for protecting cells against oxidant injury.

Effects of calmodulin antagonists on radiation-induced lipid peroxidation in microsomes

Rat liver microsomes were irradiated with gamma-rays at a dose rate of 1.31 Gys-1. The extent of lipid peroxidation, measured in terms of malondialdehyde (MDA) formed, increased with radiation dose. The presence of calmodulin antagonists during irradiation decreased lipid peroxidation. The order of their protective efficiency was: chlorpromazine (CPZ) greater than promethazine (PMZ) greater than trimeprazine (TMZ). Their protective effect was diminished in the presence of ferrous (Fe2+) ions and was restored on addition of EDTA. However, calmodulin antagonists considerably inhibited radiation-induced lipid peroxidation in the presence of ferric (Fe3+) ions. Calmodulin antagonists also decreased the cytochrome P-450 content of microsomes. These results are discussed with respect to their applicability to radiotherapy. A possible mechanism for the inhibition of radiation-induced lipid peroxidation is suggested.

Brain and plasma tetrahydroisoquinolines in rats: effects of chronic ethanol intake and diet

Brain concentrations of salsolinol (SAL), a simple tetrahydroisoquinoline (sTIQ) condensation product of dopamine (DA) and acetaldehyde, are reported to increase in chow-fed rats drinking ethanol/H2O ad libitum. However, our analyses showed that rat chow contains traces of SAL and, as previously reported, appreciable 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA), a sTIQ precursor. To examine the effect of consumption of ethanol in a DOPA- and SAL-free diet on endogenous sTIQs, we analyzed two brain regions and blood plasma of rats undergoing prolonged intake (3 weeks and 23 weeks) of liquid diet containing 6.6% ethanol or isocaloric carbohydrate. SAL and three other DA-related sTIQs were quantitated using capillary gas chromatography/mass spectrometry in the selected ion mode with deuterated standards. In accord with studies on ethanol/chow-fed rats, sTIQ concentrations in hypothalamus were elevated after 3 weeks of ethanol, although after 23 weeks, hypothalamic sTIQs were either unchanged or reduced (O-methylated SAL). Furthermore, sTIQ concentrations in corpus striatum and, with one exception, plasma were not altered by ethanol ingestion for either duration. (However, 23 weeks of ethanol intake significantly reduced the striatal concentrations of DA and its acid metabolite, presumably reflecting neurotoxicity.) Reasoning that DOPA in diet might underlie the reported ethanol-dependent increases in striatal sTIQs, we found that L-DOPA supplementation (500 micrograms/rat/day) of EtOH/liquid diet-fed rats for 13 weeks tended to increase striatal SAL. Overall, the data indicate that elevations in endogenous sTIQ concentrations due to prolonged ethanol intake depend on the brain region, duration of intake, and even associated dietary constituents. In that regard, the higher striatal SAL concentrations in rats drinking ethanol ad libitum could have been facilitated by DOPA and perhaps SAL consumed in lab chow.

The in vitro effects of four isomers of dinitrotoluene on rat Sertoli and Sertoli-germ cell cocultures: germ cell detachment and lactate and pyruvate production

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the in vitro effects of four isomers of a known testicular toxicant, dinitroluene (DNT). Rat Sertoli or Sertoli-germ cell cocultures were treated, after 3 days in culture, with DNT isomers (0.01 to 100 microM) or 1,3-dinitrobenzene (1,3-DNB) for 24 hr. Cellular morphology, germ cell detachment (GCD) and lactate pyruvate production were used as sensitive effect markers of in vitro toxicity. Morphologically the Sertoli cell monolayer remained intact 24 hr after exposure to DMSO, 1,3-DNB, or DNT isomers. Some apparent cytotoxicity was observed at 100 microM 3,4-DNT: the monolayer was disrupted with extensive vacuolation of the Sertoli cells. Cocultures treated with concentrations of 50 microM DNT isomers closely resembled cells treated with 100 microM 1,3-DNB. GCD increased in a dose-dependent manner (0.01 and 10 microM DNT isomers) increasing between 2- and 10-fold over control. Both lactate and pyruvate production increased with rising concentrations of DNT isomers. The most sensitive effect was seen with 3,4-DNT (10 to 25 microM). In the case of 2,6-DNT, despite increases in GCD and lactate production, only a minimal increase in pyruvate was demonstrated. Overall, the ratio of lactate to pyruvate production declined with increasing doses of DNT. These results indicate that the four isomers of DNT directly affected Sertoli cell morphology and function, effects comparable to those seen with the Sertoli cell toxicant 1,3-DNB. Further, the data support the hypothesis that DNT may be a Sertoli cell toxicant.

Activation of a member of the steroid hormone receptor superfamily by peroxisome proliferators

We have cloned a member of the steroid hormone receptor superfamily of ligand-activated transcription factors. The receptor homologue is activated by a diverse class of rodent hepatocarcinogens that causes proliferation of peroxisomes. Identification of a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor should help elucidate the mechanism of the hypolipidaemic effect of these hepatocarcinogens and aid evaluation of their potential carcinogenic risk to man.

Lipid peroxidation and protein thiol depletion are not involved in the cytotoxicity of N-hydroxy-2-acetylaminofluorene in isolated rat hepatocytes

Freshly isolated rat hepatocytes were used to study the mechanism of cell death induced by N-hydroxy-2-acetylaminofluorene (N-OH-AAF). Exposure to 1.0 mM N-OH-AAF resulted in more than 90% cell death (as measured by LDH leakage) of hepatocytes isolated from male rats within 6 hr. Only 36% of the hepatocytes isolated from female rats died within this period. When inorganic sulfate was omitted from the incubation medium, a 6 hr exposure to 1.0 mM N-OH-AAF resulted in only 40% cell death of male hepatocytes. These findings are in accordance with the sex difference and sulfation dependence of N-OH-AAF hepatotoxicity observed in the rat in vivo. N-OH-AAF decreased glutathione (GSH) in male hepatocytes in a concentration-dependent manner. This GSH consumption was only partly dependent on the presence of inorganic sulfate. No lipid peroxidation was observed during N-OH-AAF exposure; N-OH-AAF even prevented endogenous and diethyl maleate (DEM)-induced lipid peroxidation. No reduction of free protein thiol groups was found after exposure to N-OH-AAF, even after 75% cell death had occurred. A reduction of protein thiols after N-OH-AAF exposure was observed in GSH depleted hepatocytes (obtained by DEM plus vitamin E pretreatment). Under these conditions N-OH-AAF-induced cell death occurred earlier. Therefore, GSH protects against protein thiol depletion by N-OH-AAF in control cells. N-OH-AAF-induced cell death was preceded by a loss of intracellular ATP. It is concluded, therefore, that neither lipid peroxidation nor depletion of protein thiols, but possibly loss of intracellular ATP, is involved in the sulfation-dependent cytotoxic mechanism of N-OH-AAF in isolated rat hepatocytes.

Lack of enhancing effects of fenvalerate and esfenvalerate on induction of preneoplastic glutathione S-transferase placental form positive liver cell foci in rats

The modifying effects of fenvalerate and esfenvalerate administration on liver carcinogenesis were investigated in male F344/DuCrj rats initially treated with N-nitrosodiethylamine (DEN). Two weeks after a single dose of DEN (200 mg/kg, intraperitoneally), rats were given fenvalerate at dietary levels of 1500, 500, 150, 50 and 15 parts per million (ppm), esfenvalerate at 500 ppm, or 2-acetylamino-fluorene (2-AAF) at 200 ppm and sodium phenobarbital (PB) at 500 ppm as positive controls for 6 weeks. At week 3 following DEN administration, all animals were subjected to partial hepatectomy. Prominent neurologic signs and moderate retardation of body weight were observed in the groups given 1500 ppm fenvalerate and 500 ppm esfenvalerate, although no adverse effects on survival were evident. While statistically significant increases in relative liver weights were noted in rats given fenvalerate at doses of 1500 or 500 ppm, no toxic hepatocyte lesions were found. Neither fenvalerate nor esfenvalerate significantly increased the numbers or areas of glutathione S-transferase placental form (GST-P) positive liver cell foci observed after DEN initiation, in clear contrast to the positive controls, 2-AAF and PB. The results thus demonstrated that fenvalerate and esfenvalerate are non-toxic for rat hepatocytes and lack modifying potential for liver carcinogenesis in our medium-term bioassay system.

Covalent binding of o,p'-DDD in rabbit lung and isolated rabbit lung cells

The irreversible binding of o,p'-DDD was examined in isolated lung cells, in lung microsomes and in vivo in male New Zealand White rabbits. Non-ciliated bronchiolar (Clara) cells had the highest capacity to bind o,p'-DDD, followed by alveolar type II cells. A fraction of mixed unidentified lung cells was also able to bind o,p'-DDD while no binding was observed in alveolar macrophages. The activation of o,p'-DDD was shown to be mediated by cytochrome P-450 in both lung microsomes and isolated lung cells. In vivo, the binding was preferentially localized in the lung alveolar and bronchiolar regions. The binding of o,p'-DDD observed in vivo may thus be caused by the capacity of several cell types to activate o,p'-DDD.

Interspecies comparisons in toxicology: the utility and futility of plasma concentrations of the test substance

A classical dilemma in toxicology is how the dose administered relates to the dose delivered to the target site. Plasma concentrations of the test substance may be misleading since the concentration of any given substance in the plasma may not be representative of its concentration in tissues. Furthermore, a given tissue concentration of a xenobiotic can evoke responses which are highly species-dependent. While evaluating toxicity data within one species, plasma concentrations reflect the effects of route of administration, bioavailability, dose level, multiple dosing, age, gender, etc. However, when toxicity data is compared across species, the relevance of plasma concentrations depends on the nature of the toxicity. Reversible, pharmacodynamic effects often correlate with plasma concentrations, although there may be marked interspecies differences in dose-response relationships. Irreversible effects, if pharmacodynamic in origin, often correlate better with the intensity/duration of the pharmacodynamic response, rather than with plasma concentration. On the other hand, irreversible effects, if chemically mediated, may not correlate at all with plasma concentration, the lesions being caused by reactive metabolites of fleeting existence, which rarely survive long enough to leave their site of synthesis. They cannot be measured in the plasma nor predicted from plasma concentrations of the parent xenobiotic. The limitations of plasma concentrations in interpreting the toxicology of substances which are tissue-sequestered, which are subject to pharmacogenetic factors, or which show plasma concentrations that are not proportional to dose are also discussed. Mention is made of possible alternatives to plasma concentrations in assessing exposure in toxicology studies.

Retention of lead and cadmium in prehistoric and modern human teeth

In 5000-year-old premolars from Nubia and in 500-year-old teeth from Greenland, the lead concentrations were very low; modern teeth contained 10-100 times more lead. In contrast, cadmium concentrations varied by 30-fold in the two prehistorical populations; modern-day cadmium levels were in the lower range of this interval. These data suggest that, when compared to preindustrial exposures, the impact of current environmental lead pollution is considerable, while that of cadmium pollution is much less.