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Harlow SD, Hood MM, Ding N, Mukherjee B, Calafat AM, Randolph JF, Gold EB, Park SK. Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Hormone Levels During the Menopausal Transition. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:e4427-e4437. [PMID: 34181018 PMCID: PMC8677593 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widespread chemicals that may affect sex hormones and accelerate reproductive aging in midlife women. OBJECTIVE To examine associations between serum PFAS concentrations at baseline (1999-2000) and longitudinal serum concentrations of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol, testosterone, and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) at baseline and through 2015-2016. DESIGN Prospective cohort. SETTING General community. PARTICIPANTS 1371 midlife women 45 to 56 years of age at baseline in the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) FSH, estradiol, testosterone, SHBG. RESULTS In linear mixed models fitted with log-transformed hormones and log-transformed PFAS adjusting for age, site, race/ethnicity, smoking status, menopausal status, parity, and body mass index, FSH was positively associated with linear perfluorooctanoate [n-PFOA; 3.12% (95% CI 0.37%, 5.95%) increase for a doubling in serum concentration), linear perfluorooctane sulfonate [PFOS; 2.88% (0.21%, 5.63%)], branched perfluorooctane sulfonate [2.25% (0.02%, 4.54%)], total PFOS (3.03% (0.37%, 5.76%)), and 2-(N-ethyl-perfluorooctane sulfonamido) acetate [EtFOSAA; 1.70% (0.01%, 3.42%)]. Estradiol was inversely associated with perfluorononanoate [PFNA; -2.47% (-4.82%, -0.05%)) and n-PFOA (-2.43% (-4.97%, 0.18%)]. Significant linear trends were observed in the associations between PFOS and EtFOSAA with SHBG across parity (Ps trend ≤ 0.01), with generally inverse associations among nulliparous women but positive associations among women with 3+ births. No significant associations were observed between PFAS and testosterone. CONCLUSIONS This study observed positive associations of PFOA and PFOS with FSH and inverse associations of PFNA and PFOA with estradiol in midlife women during the menopausal transition, consistent with findings that PFAS affect reproductive aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siobán D Harlow
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Michelle M Hood
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ning Ding
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Bhramar Mukherjee
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Antonia M Calafat
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - John F Randolph
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ellen B Gold
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Sung Kyun Park
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Correspondence: Sung Kyun Park, ScD, MPH, Departments of Epidemiology and Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029.
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Du Y, Cai Z, Zhang H, Liang W, Wang H, Man Q, Wang W. Nitric oxide mediates disruption of human placental trophoblast invasion induced by perfluorobutane sulfonate. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 283:117137. [PMID: 33866218 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.117137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorobutane sulfonate (PFBS), an emerging pollutant, is associated with disruption of placental functions and adverse birth outcomes. However, the precise mechanism of this disruption remains unclear. Extravillous trophoblasts make up the majority of cells in the placenta, and have invasive abilities, which plays a critical role in a successful pregnancy. It has been reported that inducible nitric oxide (iNOS) and nitric oxide (NO) signaling is associated with trophoblast migration and invasion. In this study, PFBS exposure was found to enhance trophoblast invasion and increase matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) levels. Additionally, PFBS upregulated iNOS levels and stimulated NO generation. iNOS inhibitor treatment attenuated the increased invasion of trophoblasts and MMP-9 expression induced by PFBS. Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation was also enhanced by PFBS exposure. In the presence of an ERK pathway inhibitor, however, the increases in trophoblast invasion, the induction of NO production, iNOS expression and MMP-9 expression induced by PFBS were attenuated. Taken together, these results suggest that iNOS/NO signaling is triggered by activation of the ERK signaling pathway, and that iNOS/NO signaling mediates PFBS-induced stimulation of trophoblast invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yatao Du
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200292, China
| | - Zhenzhen Cai
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200292, China
| | - Huihui Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China; Faculty of Basic Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Wei Liang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200292, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200292, China
| | - Qiuhong Man
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, 200434, China
| | - Weiye Wang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200292, China.
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Luo K, Liu X, Nian M, Wang Y, Qiu J, Yu H, Chen X, Zhang J. Environmental exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances mixture and male reproductive hormones. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 152:106496. [PMID: 33744484 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous epidemiological studies on the relationship between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure and male reproductive hormones were mainly limited to a few legacy PFAS and ignored the possible mixture effects. OBJECTIVES To assess the associations of PFAS mixture, branched isomers and emerging alternatives of PFAS with male reproductive hormones. METHODS A total of 902 men (mean age: 31.3 years) were recruited in this cross-sectional study. We quantified 24 targeted PFAS, including 7 branched PFOS isomers, 2 branched PFOA isomers and 2 components of F-53B, in blood plasma. Five reproductive hormones, including total testosterone (TT), estradiol (E2), follicular stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and insulin like factor 3 (INSL3), and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) were measured in serum. Associations were first assessed by confounder-adjusted multiple linear regression while correcting for multiple comparisons. Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) and adaptive elastic net (AENET) were further used to assess mixture effects and the adjusted exposure response (ER) relationship of individual PFAS. RESULTS After adjusting for confounders, we found that PFAS mixture was significantly and inversely associated with E2 and E2/TT, with perfluoro-n-undecanoic acid (PFuDA) being the major contributor. Although the associations between PFAS mixture and other hormones were non-significant, certain individual PFAS presented significant associations. Notably, perfluoro-n-tridecanoic acid (PFTrDA) and perfluoro-n-dodecanoic acid (PFDoA) were found to be significantly and inversely associated with INSL3, a unique indicator of Leydig cells function. Meanwhile, significant positive associations were found between perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS) and FSH and between PFuDA and LH. But the associations with branched isomers or F-53B were sporadic and inconsistent. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provided the evidence that PFAS mixture may reduce E2 level, and certain PFAS (i.e., PFTrDA and PFDoA) may have negative effects on Leydig cells function among young men. Additional studies are much needed to confirm our results and elucidate potential mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Luo
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xiaotu Liu
- School of Environment, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure and Health, and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Min Nian
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yuqing Wang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Jin Qiu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200135, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China; Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Hao Yu
- School of Environment, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure and Health, and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xiangfeng Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200135, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China; Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai 200135, China.
| | - Jun Zhang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China.
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Bioactivity profiling of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) identifies potential toxicity pathways related to molecular structure. Toxicology 2021; 457:152789. [PMID: 33887376 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2021.152789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a broad class of hundreds of fluorinated chemicals with environmental health concerns due to their widespread presence and persistence in the environment. Several of these chemicals have been comprehensively studied for experimental toxicity, environmental fate and exposure, and human epidemiology; however, most chemicals have limited or no data available. To inform methods for prioritizing these data-poor chemicals for detailed toxicity studies, we evaluated 142 PFAS using an in vitro screening platform consisting of two multiplexed transactivation assays encompassing 81 diverse transcription factor activities and tested in concentration-response format ranging from 137 nM to 300 μM. Results showed activity for various nuclear receptors, including three known PFAS targets--specifically estrogen receptor alpha and peroxisome proliferator receptors alpha and gamma. We also report activity against the retinoid X receptor beta, the key heterodimeric partner of type II, non-steroidal nuclear receptors. Additional activities were found against the pregnane X receptor, nuclear receptor related-1 protein, and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, a sensor of oxidative stress. Using orthogonal assay approaches, we confirmed activity of representative PFAS against several of these targets. Finally, we identified key PFAS structural features associated with nuclear receptor activity that can inform future predictive models for use in prioritizing chemicals for risk assessment and in the design of new structures devoid of biological activity.
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Li J, Li J, Ma Y, Chen B, Wang X, Jiao X, Jin Y, Shen Z, Yuan T, Yu X. Urine concentrations of perfluoroalkyl acids in children and contributions of dietary factors: a cross-sectional study from Shanghai, China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:20440-20450. [PMID: 33403637 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-12293-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The production and emission of short-chain perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) has increased over the years to replace long-chain PFAAs, leading to frequent detection in the environment and raising global concerns about the potential impacts on human health. In this study, the specific urine levels of 10 PFAAs were obtained from 189 children (age 8-12 years) from two primary schools located in urban and suburban areas of Shanghai in 2019, and the contributions of dietary factors were investigated. Perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA), and perfluorobutane sulfonate (PFBS) were detected in 100%, 99.5%, and 87.3% of the samples, with median concentrations of 20.20 ng/L, 46.50 ng/L, and 20.95 ng/L, respectively. The most abundant PFAA was perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), with a median concentration of 78.90 ng/L. The concentration of ∑PFAAs ranged from 61.10 to 4108.93 ng/L, with a median concentration of 253.12 ng/L. Children aged 8-9 years had higher median levels of PFBS, perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS), and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) than children aged 10-12 years. Obese/overweight children had lower levels of PFHpA, PFBS, and PFOS. The intake of red meats, tubers, sugared beverages, fish and seafood, and eggs contributed to higher concentrations of PFAAs, while frequent intake of poultry and soy milk was associated with lower PFAA concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Li
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Jiafan Li
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Health Impact Assessment of Emerging Contaminants, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Yuning Ma
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Health Impact Assessment of Emerging Contaminants, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Bo Chen
- School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xirui Wang
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Xianting Jiao
- MOE-Shanghai Key Lab of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Yihui Jin
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Health Impact Assessment of Emerging Contaminants, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Zhemin Shen
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Health Impact Assessment of Emerging Contaminants, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Tao Yuan
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Health Impact Assessment of Emerging Contaminants, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
| | - Xiaodan Yu
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China.
- MOE-Shanghai Key Lab of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.
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Wang Y, Aimuzi R, Nian M, Zhang Y, Luo K, Zhang J. Perfluoroalkyl substances and sex hormones in postmenopausal women: NHANES 2013-2016. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 149:106408. [PMID: 33548847 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although an alteration in sex hormones has been linked to perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in premenopausal women and girls, whether such associations exist in postmenopausal women remains uncertain. OBJECTS To examine the associations between serum PFAS concentrations and sex hormone levels in postmenopausal women. METHODS Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2013-2016 waves were used. A total of 706 postmenopausal women with information on serum PFAS [perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS), pefluorodecanoic acid (PFDA); perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA); linear perfluorooctanoate (n-PFOA); linear perfluorooctane sulfonate (n-PFOS); monomethyl branched isomers of PFOS (Sm-PFOS)], sex hormones indicators [e.g., total testosterone (TT), estradiol (E2) and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG)] as well as selected covariates were included. An indicator of circulating free testosterone (FT), and ratio of TT to E2 (TT/E2) were generated. Multiple linear regression accounting for the primary sampling unit, strata, and environmental sampling weights of PFAS was used for association analyses. Effect modification by obesity and type of menopause was explored via stratified analyses as well as the testing of interaction terms. Principal component analysis (PCA) and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) were conducted to assess these relationships in a multiple PFAS exposure setting. RESULTS After adjusting for potential confounders, total perfluorooctanoate (TPFOA: n-PFOA + Sb-PFOA) and total perfluorooctane sulfonate (TPFOS: n-PFOS + Sm-PFOS), and their linear and branched isomers were positively associated with two androgen indicators (i.e., TT and FT). PCA results revealed that the principal component (PC) composed of n-PFOA was positively associated with ln (TT) [β = 0.09, 95% confidential interval (CI): 0.02, 0.16; per ln-ng/mL increase in exposure], and ln (FT) (β = 0.12, 95% CI: 0.05, 0.2) in overweight/obese [body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2] women, but not in those with BMI < 25 kg/m2. Additionally, among overweight/obese women, PFHxS was positively associated with androgens and negatively with ln (SHBG) (β = -0.06, 95% CI: -0.12, -0.01). The PC composed of Sm-PFOS, n-PFOS, and PFHxS was positively associated with ln (TT) levels among overweight/obese women. Results from BKMR also confirmed the findings on n-PFOA and PFHxS. CONCLUSIONS Our study indicates that n-PFOA and PFHxS were positively associated with levels of several androgen indicators in postmenopausal women, particularly among overweight/obese ones. Given the higher risk of cardiometabolic diseases associated with elevated levels of androgens in postmenopausal women, future studies are needed to explore the potential underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Wang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao-Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruxianguli Aimuzi
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao-Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Nian
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao-Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao-Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kai Luo
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao-Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jun Zhang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao-Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
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Liu ZH, Dang Z, Liu Y. Legislation against endocrine-disrupting compounds in drinking water: essential but not enough to ensure water safety. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:19505-19510. [PMID: 33620688 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-12901-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Since the last several decades, there has been a growing concern on the presence of endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) in potable water due to their negative impacts on public health of mankind. As such, more and more EDCs have been regulated in many national drinking water quality standards. Given this situation, this work attempted to deliberately offer new insights into some remaining scientific challenges, i.e., (1) what should the allowable EDC concentration be in drinking water?; (2) should the main chlorinated byproducts of EDCs be regulated in potable water?; and (3) what concentration should be regulated for each chlorinated EDC? It is expected that these could help to better design the water quality regulations for EDCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze-Hua Liu
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China.
- Key Lab Pollution Control & Ecosystem Restoration in Industry Cluster, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Solid Wastes Pollution Control and Recycling, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center for Environment Risk Prevention and Emergency Disposal, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China.
| | - Zhi Dang
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Advanced Environmental Biotechnology Center, Nanyang Environment and Water Research Institute, Nanyang Technological University, CleanTech One, 637141, Singapore
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
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Fenton SE, Ducatman A, Boobis A, DeWitt JC, Lau C, Ng C, Smith JS, Roberts SM. Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance Toxicity and Human Health Review: Current State of Knowledge and Strategies for Informing Future Research. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2021; 40:606-630. [PMID: 33017053 PMCID: PMC7906952 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 681] [Impact Index Per Article: 227.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Reports of environmental and human health impacts of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have greatly increased in the peer-reviewed literature. The goals of the present review are to assess the state of the science regarding toxicological effects of PFAS and to develop strategies for advancing knowledge on the health effects of this large family of chemicals. Currently, much of the toxicity data available for PFAS are for a handful of chemicals, primarily legacy PFAS such as perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctane sulfonate. Epidemiological studies have revealed associations between exposure to specific PFAS and a variety of health effects, including altered immune and thyroid function, liver disease, lipid and insulin dysregulation, kidney disease, adverse reproductive and developmental outcomes, and cancer. Concordance with experimental animal data exists for many of these effects. However, information on modes of action and adverse outcome pathways must be expanded, and profound differences in PFAS toxicokinetic properties must be considered in understanding differences in responses between the sexes and among species and life stages. With many health effects noted for a relatively few example compounds and hundreds of other PFAS in commerce lacking toxicity data, more contemporary and high-throughput approaches such as read-across, molecular dynamics, and protein modeling are proposed to accelerate the development of toxicity information on emerging and legacy PFAS, individually and as mixtures. In addition, an appropriate degree of precaution, given what is already known from the PFAS examples noted, may be needed to protect human health. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:606-630. © 2020 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne E. Fenton
- National Toxicology Program Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Alan Ducatman
- West Virginia University School of Public Health, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Alan Boobis
- Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jamie C. DeWitt
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA
| | - Christopher Lau
- Public Health and Integrated Toxicology Division, Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, Office of Research and Development, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Carla Ng
- Departments of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - James S. Smith
- Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center, Portsmouth, Virginia, USA
| | - Stephen M. Roberts
- Center for Environmental & Human Toxicology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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Mokra K. Endocrine Disruptor Potential of Short- and Long-Chain Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs)-A Synthesis of Current Knowledge with Proposal of Molecular Mechanism. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2148. [PMID: 33670069 PMCID: PMC7926449 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22042148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Endocrine disruptors are a group of chemical compounds that, even in low concentrations, cause a hormonal imbalance in the body, contributing to the development of various harmful health disorders. Many industry compounds, due to their important commercial value and numerous applications, are produced on a global scale, while the mechanism of their endocrine action has not been fully understood. In recent years, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have gained the interest of major international health organizations, and thus more and more studies have been aimed to explain the toxicity of these compounds. PFASs were firstly synthesized in the 1950s and broadly used in the industry in the production of firefighting agents, cosmetics and herbicides. The numerous industrial applications of PFASs, combined with the exceptionally long half-life of these substances in the human body and extreme environmental persistence, result in a common and chronic exposure of the general population to their action. Available data have suggested that human exposure to PFASs can occur during different stages of development and may cause short- or/and long-term health effects. This paper synthetizes the current literature reports on the presence, bioaccumulation and, particularly, endocrine toxicity of selected long- and short-chain PFASs, with a special emphasis on the mechanisms underlying their endocrine actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Mokra
- Department of Environmental Pollution Biophysics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143 St., 90-236 Lodz, Poland
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Legacy and Emerging Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances: Analytical Techniques, Environmental Fate, and Health Effects. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22030995. [PMID: 33498193 PMCID: PMC7863963 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22030995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to their unique chemical properties, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been used extensively as industrial surfactants and processing aids. While several types of PFAS have been voluntarily phased out by their manufacturers, these chemicals continue to be of ecological and public health concern due to their persistence in the environment and their presence in living organisms. Moreover, while the compounds referred to as “legacy” PFAS remain in the environment, alternative compounds have emerged as replacements for their legacy predecessors and are now detected in numerous matrices. In this review, we discuss the historical uses of PFAS, recent advances in analytical techniques for analysis of these compounds, and the fate of PFAS in the environment. In addition, we evaluate current biomonitoring studies of human exposure to legacy and emerging PFAS and examine the associations of PFAS exposure with human health impacts, including cancer- and non-cancer-related outcomes. Special focus is given to short-chain perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) and ether-substituted, polyfluoroalkyl alternatives including hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid (HFPO-DA; tradename GenX), 4,8-dioxa-3H-perfluorononanoic acid (DONA), and 6:2 chlorinated polyfluoroethersulfonic acid (6:2 Cl-PFESA; tradename F-53B).
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Xie X, Weng X, Liu S, Chen J, Guo X, Gao X, Fei Q, Hao G, Jing C, Feng L. Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl substance exposure and association with sex hormone concentrations: Results from the NHANES 2015-2016. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES EUROPE 2021; 33:69. [PMID: 36061407 PMCID: PMC9440377 DOI: 10.1186/s12302-021-00508-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is increasing global concern regarding the health impacts of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are emerging environmental endocrine disruptors. Results from previous epidemiological studies on the associations between PFAS exposure and sex hormone levels are inconsistent. OBJECTIVE We examined the associations between serum PFAS compounds (PFDeA, PFHxS, PFNA, PFOA, PFOS) and sex hormones, including total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), estrogen (E), and serum hormone binding globulin (SHBG). RESULTS After adjusting for potential confounders, PFDeA, PFOS, and PFHxS exposures were significantly associated with increased serum testosterone concentrations in males. PFDeA, PFOA, and PFOS exposures were positively correlated with FT levels in 20-49 years old women while PFOS exposure was negatively associated with TT levels in 12-19 years old girls. PFAS exposure was negatively associated with estradiol levels including: PFDeA in all females, PFHxS, PFNA, PFOS, and PFOA in 12-19 years old girls, PFNA in women above 50 years old, and PFOA in 12-19 years old boys while PFDeA and PFOS exposures were positively associated with estradiol levels in these boys. n-PFOS exposure was positively associated with SHBG levels in men older than 20 and in all females. CONCLUSIONS Using a large cohort of males and females aged from 12-80, we found that PFAS exposure appears to disrupt sex hormones in a gender-, age-, and compound-specific manner. Future work is warranted to clarify the causality and mechanisms involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xie
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Xueqiong Weng
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Shan Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Jingmin Chen
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinrong Guo
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinyu Gao
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Qiaoyuan Fei
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Guang Hao
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Chunxia Jing
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Liping Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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Li J, Cao H, Feng H, Xue Q, Zhang A, Fu J. Evaluation of the Estrogenic/Antiestrogenic Activities of Perfluoroalkyl Substances and Their Interactions with the Human Estrogen Receptor by Combining In Vitro Assays and In Silico Modeling. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:14514-14524. [PMID: 33111528 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c03468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The potential estrogenic activities of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are controversial. Here, we investigated the estrogenic/antiestrogenic activities of PFASs and explored the corresponding interaction mode of PFASs with the estrogen receptor (ER) by combining in vitro assays and in silico modeling. We found that three PFASs (perfluorobutanoic acid, perfluorobutane sulfonate, and perfluoropentanoic acid) exerted antiestrogenic effects by inhibiting luciferase activity, whereas perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) exerted estrogenic effects by inducing luciferase activity. When coexposed to 17β-estradiol (E2), all tested PFASs attenuated the E2-stimulated luciferase activity; unexpectedly, each PFAS could further attenuate the luciferase activity generated by the cotreatment with ICI 182,780 and E2, with a minimal effective concentration comparable to that found in human serum. PFHxS and PFOS significantly induced the gene expression of TFF1; additionally, all PFASs inhibited the E2-induced gene expression of TFF1 and EGR3. Furthermore, the results of the blind docking analyses suggested that the interaction with the coactivator-binding region on the ER surface should be included as a pathway through which PFASs exert estrogenic and antiestrogenic activities. Finally, we revealed the critical molecular property of the zero-order molecular connectivity index (MCI) (0χ) that affects the antiestrogenic activity of PFASs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environment and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Huiming Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100085, China
- Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
| | - Hongru Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Qiao Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Aiqian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100085, China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Jianjie Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100085, China
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Marinello WP, Mohseni ZS, Cunningham SJ, Crute C, Huang R, Zhang JJ, Feng L. Perfluorobutane sulfonate exposure disrupted human placental cytotrophoblast cell proliferation and invasion involving in dysregulating preeclampsia related genes. FASEB J 2020; 34:14182-14199. [PMID: 32901980 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202000716rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
We reported that maternal PFBS, an emerging pollutant, exposure is positively associated with preeclampsia which can result from aberrant trophoblasts invasion and subsequent placental ischemia. In this study, we investigated the effects of PFBS on trophoblasts proliferation/invasion and signaling pathways. We exposed a human trophoblast line, HTR8/SVneo, to PFBS. Cell viability, proliferation, and cell cycle were evaluated by the MTS assay, Ki-67 staining, and flow cytometry, respectively. We assessed cell migration and invasion with live-cell imaging-based migration assay and matrigel invasion assay, respectively. Signaling pathways were examined by Western blot, RNA-seq, and qPCR. PFBS exposure interrupted cell proliferation and invasion in a dose-dependent manner. PFBS (100 μM) did not cause cell death but instead significant cell proliferation without cell cycle disruption. PFBS (10 and 100 μM) decreased cell migration and invasion, while PFBS (0.1 μM) significantly increased cell invasion but not migration. Further, RNA-seq analysis identified dysregulated HIF-1α target genes that are relevant to cell proliferation/invasion and preeclampsia, while Western Blot data showed the activation of HIF-1α, but not Notch, ERK1/2, (PI3K)AKT, and P38 pathways. PBFS exposure altered trophoblast cell proliferation/invasion which might be mediated by preeclampsia-related genes, suggesting a possible association between prenatal PFBS exposure and adverse placentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- William P Marinello
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Zahra S Mohseni
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Sarah J Cunningham
- University Program in Genetics and Genomics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Christine Crute
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.,Integrated Toxicology and Environmental Health Program, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Rong Huang
- MOE-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun J Zhang
- MOE-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Liping Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.,MOE-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Tsai MS, Chang SH, Kuo WH, Kuo CH, Li SY, Wang MY, Chang DY, Lu YS, Huang CS, Cheng AL, Lin CH, Chen PC. A case-control study of perfluoroalkyl substances and the risk of breast cancer in Taiwanese women. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 142:105850. [PMID: 32580117 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is a common cancer in women worldwide; however, the incidence of BC is increasing in younger women, possibly associated with the environment. Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are one of endocrine disruptors that accumulate in environment and impact human health. This study aimed to investigate whether the PFAS and BC are associated. We enrolled 120 BCE patients and 119 controls at National Taiwan University Hospital (NTUH) and also collected bio-specimen and questionnaire from 2013 to 2015. All subjects' plasma PFAS levels were analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method with electrospray ionization (UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS). A logistic regression model was used to estimate the association between PFAS and BC. In the ≤50 years age group, the adjusted odds ratio (OR) was 2.34 (95% CI = 1.02, 5.38) for perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) exposure per natural log unit increase. After stratifying the estrogen receptor (ER) status and age group, we obtained a positive association for PFHxS and PFOS concentrations with respect to the risk of ER positive tumors for ≤50 years age group. In conclusion, we found that PFAS were associated with the BC risk of ER positive tumors in young Taiwanese women. Further studies are needed to follow and explore whether these associations are causal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Shan Tsai
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Han Chang
- School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Hung Kuo
- Departments of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hua Kuo
- School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan; The Metabolomics Core Laboratory, Centers of Genomic Medicine and Precision Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan; Department of Pharmacy, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Szu-Yi Li
- Department of Oncology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Yang Wang
- Departments of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Dwan-Ying Chang
- Department of Oncology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Shen Lu
- Department of Oncology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan; Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Chiun-Sheng Huang
- Departments of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Ann-Lii Cheng
- Department of Oncology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan; Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Oncology and Cancer Research Centre, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hung Lin
- Department of Oncology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan; Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan.
| | - Pau-Chung Chen
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan; Department of Public Health, National Taiwan University College of Public Health, Taipei 100, Taiwan; Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei 100, Taiwan; Office of Occupational Safety and Health, National Taiwan University College of Medicine and Hospital, Taipei 100, Taiwan; Innovation and Policy Center for Population Health and Sustainable Environment, National Taiwan University College of Public Health, Taipei 100, Taiwan.
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Ding N, Harlow SD, Randolph Jr JF, Loch-Caruso R, Park SK. Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and their effects on the ovary. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:724-752. [PMID: 32476019 PMCID: PMC7456353 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are found widespread in drinking water, foods, food packaging materials and other consumer products. Several PFAS have been identified as endocrine-disrupting chemicals based on their ability to interfere with normal reproductive function and hormonal signalling. Experimental models and epidemiologic studies suggest that PFAS exposures target the ovary and represent major risks for women's health. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review summarises human population and toxicological studies on the association between PFAS exposure and ovarian function. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive review was performed by searching PubMed. Search terms included an extensive list of PFAS and health terms ranging from general keywords (e.g. ovarian, reproductive, follicle, oocyte) to specific keywords (including menarche, menstrual cycle, menopause, primary ovarian insufficiency/premature ovarian failure, steroid hormones), based on the authors' knowledge of the topic and key terms. OUTCOMES Clinical evidence demonstrates the presence of PFAS in follicular fluid and their ability to pass through the blood-follicle barrier. Although some studies found no evidence associating PFAS exposure with disruption in ovarian function, numerous epidemiologic studies, mostly with cross-sectional study designs, have identified associations of higher PFAS exposure with later menarche, irregular menstrual cycles, longer cycle length, earlier age of menopause and reduced levels of oestrogens and androgens. Adverse effects of PFAS on ovarian folliculogenesis and steroidogenesis have been confirmed in experimental models. Based on laboratory research findings, PFAS could diminish ovarian reserve and reduce endogenous hormone synthesis through activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, disrupting gap junction intercellular communication between oocyte and granulosa cells, inducing thyroid hormone deficiency, antagonising ovarian enzyme activities involved in ovarian steroidogenesis or inhibiting kisspeptin signalling in the hypothalamus. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The published literature supports associations between PFAS exposure and adverse reproductive outcomes; however, the evidence remains insufficient to infer a causal relationship between PFAS exposure and ovarian disorders. Thus, more research is warranted. PFAS are of significant concern because these chemicals are ubiquitous and persistent in the environment and in humans. Moreover, susceptible groups, such as foetuses and pregnant women, may be exposed to harmful combinations of chemicals that include PFAS. However, the role environmental exposures play in reproductive disorders has received little attention by the medical community. To better understand the potential risk of PFAS on human ovarian function, additional experimental studies using PFAS doses equivalent to the exposure levels found in the general human population and mixtures of compounds are required. Prospective investigations in human populations are also warranted to ensure the temporality of PFAS exposure and health endpoints and to minimise the possibility of reverse causality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Ding
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Siobán D Harlow
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - John F Randolph Jr
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Rita Loch-Caruso
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Sung Kyun Park
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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Louisse J, Rijkers D, Stoopen G, Janssen A, Staats M, Hoogenboom R, Kersten S, Peijnenburg A. Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), and perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) increase triglyceride levels and decrease cholesterogenic gene expression in human HepaRG liver cells. Arch Toxicol 2020; 94:3137-3155. [PMID: 32588087 PMCID: PMC7415755 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-020-02808-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are omnipresent in the environment, food chain, and humans. Epidemiological studies have shown a positive association between serum levels of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), and increased serum cholesterol and, in some cases, also triglyceride levels. However, causality has been questioned, as animal studies, as well as a human trial, showed a decrease in serum cholesterol and no effects or a decrease in plasma triglycerides. To obtain more insight into the effects of PFASs on these processes, the present study investigated the effects of PFOA, PFOS, and perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) on intracellular triglyceride and cholesterol levels in human HepaRG liver cells. DNA microarray analyses were performed to provide insight into underlying mechanisms. All PFASs induced an increase in cellular triglyceride levels, but had no effect on cholesterol levels. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) of the microarray data indicated that gene sets related to cholesterol biosynthesis were repressed by PFOA, PFOS, and PFNA. Other gene sets commonly affected by all PFAS were related to PERK/ATF4 signaling (induced), tRNA amino-acylation (induced), amino acid transport (induced), and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis (repressed). Moreover, numerous target genes of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) were found to be upregulated. Altogether, the present study shows that PFOA, PFOS, and PFNA increase triglyceride levels and inhibit cholesterogenic gene expression in HepaRG cells. In addition, the present study indicates that PFASs induce endoplasmic reticulum stress, which may be an important mechanism underlying some of the toxic effects of these chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jochem Louisse
- Wageningen Food Safety Research (WFSR), Wageningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Deborah Rijkers
- Wageningen Food Safety Research (WFSR), Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Geert Stoopen
- Wageningen Food Safety Research (WFSR), Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Aafke Janssen
- Wageningen Food Safety Research (WFSR), Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Martijn Staats
- Wageningen Food Safety Research (WFSR), Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ron Hoogenboom
- Wageningen Food Safety Research (WFSR), Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sander Kersten
- Nutrition, Metabolism and Genomics Group, Division of Human Nutrition and Health, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ad Peijnenburg
- Wageningen Food Safety Research (WFSR), Wageningen, The Netherlands
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Liu H, Pan Y, Jin S, Li Y, Zhao L, Sun X, Cui Q, Zhang B, Zheng T, Xia W, Zhou A, Campana AM, Dai J, Xu S. Associations of per-/polyfluoroalkyl substances with glucocorticoids and progestogens in newborns. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 140:105636. [PMID: 32474218 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2019] [Revised: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to per-/polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) can disrupt endocrine hormones in humans. Prior studies have focused on the harmful effects of the two traditional per-/polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). Other PFASs, used as the replacements of PFOS and PFOA, are widely and increasingly detected in humans. Whether these replacements influence glucocorticoids and progestogens in newborns remains unknown. OBJECTIVE To investigate the associations between exposures of PFOS, PFOA and their replacements and glucocorticoids and progestogens in newborns. METHODS We measured the concentrations of 13 PFASs, 3 glucocorticoids (11-deoxycortisol, cortisol and cortisone) and 2 progestogens [progesterone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP)] in the cord sera of 374 neonates in a birth cohort from Wuhan, China, between 2013 and 2014. We evaluated the associations of each PFAS with glucocorticoids and progestogens using multiple linear regression models, and multiple comparisons were additionally corrected via false discovery rates (FDR). RESULTS Out of the 13 PFASs, 9 were detected in over 95% of cord sera. The Chinese specific PFOS replacement - 6:2 chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonate (6:2 Cl-PFESA, trade name F-53B) was positively associated with 13.13% change in cortisol in girls (95% CI = 4.47%, 22.52%, for each IQR increase in 6:2 Cl-PFESA). Seven PFASs had positive associations with the precursor of cortisol, namely 11-deoxycortisol (percent change ranged from 6.41% to 11.24%, for each IQR increase in PFASs). Perfluorobutane sulfonate (PFBS) in cord sera was positively associated with progesterone in the linear model, whereas PFOS and perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS) levels were associated with progesterone in the quartile models. No PFASs were related to 17OHP or cortisone. CONCLUSIONS In this study, PFOS, PFOA and/or their replacements were positively associated with progesterone, cortisol and 11-deoxycortisol in newborns. These results suggested that not only PFOS and PFOA, but also other PFASs have potential impacts on glucocorticoids and progestogens in newborns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxiu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (HUST), Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, Hubei, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubation), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yitao Pan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
| | - Shuna Jin
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (HUST), Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, Hubei, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubation), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (HUST), Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, Hubei, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubation), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, Hubei, PR China
| | - Liuqing Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (HUST), Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, Hubei, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubation), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, Hubei, PR China
| | - Xiaojie Sun
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (HUST), Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, Hubei, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubation), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, Hubei, PR China
| | - Qianqian Cui
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Women and Children Medical and Healthcare Center of Wuhan, Wuhan 430000, Hubei, PR China
| | - Tongzhang Zheng
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, United States
| | - Wei Xia
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (HUST), Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, Hubei, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubation), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, Hubei, PR China
| | - Aifen Zhou
- Women and Children Medical and Healthcare Center of Wuhan, Wuhan 430000, Hubei, PR China
| | | | - Jiayin Dai
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China.
| | - Shunqing Xu
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health (HUST), Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, Hubei, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubation), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, Hubei, PR China.
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Prenatal perfluoroalkyl substances and newborn anogenital distance in a Canadian cohort. Reprod Toxicol 2020; 94:31-39. [PMID: 32283250 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2020.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to the man-made chemicals perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorohexanesulfonate (PFHxS) is widespread. These perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have been associated with androgenic endocrine-disrupting properties; however, the evidence is equivocal and few human studies have examined the association between prenatal exposure to PFASs and markers of androgenic endocrine disruption such as changes in anogenital distance (AGD). In the MIREC cohort, PFOA, PFOS and PFHxS were analyzed in first trimester maternal plasma. AGD was measured in 205 male and 196 female newborns. The change in estimate procedure was used to identify confounders by sex and AGD in multiple linear regression models. Geometric mean plasma concentrations (95% CI) for PFOA, PFOS and PFHxS were 1.71 (1.61, 1.81), 4.40 (4.18, 4.64) and 1.15 (1.06, 1.25) μg/L, respectively. A one-unit increase in natural log transformed PFOA was associated with a 1.36 mm (95% CI 0.30, 2.41) increase in anoscrotal distance, adjusting for household income, active smoking status during pregnancy and gestational age. However, when examined by quartiles, a non-monotonic pattern was observed with wide confidence intervals. No consistent patterns were observed between maternal PFAS concentrations and female AGDs. This study found no clear evidence that maternal plasma concentrations of PFOS, PFOA or PFHxS were associated with shorter infant anogenital distance in males or any change in AGD in females. Whether the positive association observed between longer anoscrotal distance and PFOA is real or would have any long-lasting effect on the reproductive health of males is unknown and needs to be investigated further.
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Temkin AM, Hocevar BA, Andrews DQ, Naidenko OV, Kamendulis LM. Application of the Key Characteristics of Carcinogens to Per and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E1668. [PMID: 32143379 PMCID: PMC7084585 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17051668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) constitute a large class of environmentally persistent chemicals used in industrial and consumer products. Human exposure to PFAS is extensive, and PFAS contamination has been reported in drinking water and food supplies as well as in the serum of nearly all people. The most well-studied member of the PFAS class, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), induces tumors in animal bioassays and has been associated with elevated risk of cancer in human populations. GenX, one of the PFOA replacement chemicals, induces tumors in animal bioassays as well. Using the Key Characteristics of Carcinogens framework for cancer hazard identification, we considered the existing epidemiological, toxicological and mechanistic data for 26 different PFAS. We found strong evidence that multiple PFAS induce oxidative stress, are immunosuppressive, and modulate receptor-mediated effects. We also found suggestive evidence indicating that some PFAS can induce epigenetic alterations and influence cell proliferation. Experimental data indicate that PFAS are not genotoxic and generally do not undergo metabolic activation. Data are currently insufficient to assess whether any PFAS promote chronic inflammation, cellular immortalization or alter DNA repair. While more research is needed to address data gaps, evidence exists that several PFAS exhibit one or more of the key characteristics of carcinogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis M. Temkin
- Environmental Working Group, Washington, DC 20009, USA; (D.Q.A.); (O.V.N.)
| | - Barbara A. Hocevar
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA; (B.A.H.); (L.M.K.)
| | - David Q. Andrews
- Environmental Working Group, Washington, DC 20009, USA; (D.Q.A.); (O.V.N.)
| | - Olga V. Naidenko
- Environmental Working Group, Washington, DC 20009, USA; (D.Q.A.); (O.V.N.)
| | - Lisa M. Kamendulis
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA; (B.A.H.); (L.M.K.)
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Xu B, Ahmed MB, Zhou JL, Altaee A. Visible and UV photocatalysis of aqueous perfluorooctanoic acid by TiO 2 and peroxymonosulfate: Process kinetics and mechanistic insights. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 243:125366. [PMID: 31765901 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.125366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The global occurrence and adverse environmental impacts of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) have attracted wide attention. This study focused on the PFOA photodegradation by using photocatalyst TiO2 with peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation. Aqueous PFOA (50 mg L-1) at the pH 3 was treated by TiO2/PMS under 300 W visible light (400-770 nm) or 32 W UV light (254 nm and 185 nm). The addition of PMS induced a significant degradation of PFOA under powerful visible light compared with sole TiO2. Under visible light, 0.25 g L-1 TiO2 and 0.75 g L-1 PMS in the solution with the initial pH 3 provided optimum condition which achieved 100% PFOA removal within 8 h. Under UV light irradiation at 254 nm and 185 nm wavelength, TiO2/PMS presented excellent performance of almost 100% removal of PFOA within 1.5 h, attributed to the high UV absorbance by the photocatalyst. The intermediates analysis showed that PFOA was degraded from a long carbon chain PFOA to shorter chain intermediates in a stepwise manner. Furthermore, scavenger experiments indicated that SO4•-radicals from PMS and photogenerated holes from TiO2 played an essential role in degrading PFOA. The presence of organic compounds in real wastewater reduced the degradation efficacy of PFOA by 18-35% in visible/TiO2/PMS system. In general, TiO2/PMS could be an ideal and effective photocatalysis system for the degradation of PFOA from wastewater using either visible or UV light source.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bentuo Xu
- Centre for Green Technology, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, 15 Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia; School of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Mohammad Boshir Ahmed
- Centre for Green Technology, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, 15 Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - John L Zhou
- Centre for Green Technology, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, 15 Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia.
| | - Ali Altaee
- Centre for Green Technology, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, 15 Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
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71
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Perfluoroalkyl chemicals in neurological health and disease: Human concerns and animal models. Neurotoxicology 2020; 77:155-168. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2020.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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Wikström S, Lin PI, Lindh CH, Shu H, Bornehag CG. Maternal serum levels of perfluoroalkyl substances in early pregnancy and offspring birth weight. Pediatr Res 2020; 87:1093-1099. [PMID: 31835271 PMCID: PMC7196936 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-019-0720-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are widespread, bioaccumulating, and persistent and show placental transfer. Emerging research indicates associations between prenatal exposure and low birth weight. The aim of this study was to assess the associations between first trimester exposure to PFASs and birth weight (BW) in the Swedish Environmental, Longitudinal, Mother and child, Asthma and allergy (SELMA) study and examine whether associations differ between girls and boys. METHODS Eight PFASs were analyzed in maternal serum (median: 10 weeks of pregnancy). Associations between prenatal PFAS exposure and birth outcomes with BW, BW for gestational age, and birth small for gestational age (SGA) were assessed in 1533 infants, adjusted for potential confounders and stratified by sex. RESULTS Increased maternal perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA), and perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUnDA) were associated with lower BW, lower BW for gestational age, and SGA birth. Associations were significant only in girls, where prenatal exposure in the upper quartile was associated with a 93-142-g lower BW when compared with that of the lowest quartile exposure. The associations were not mediated by effects on gestational age. CONCLUSIONS We found associations between prenatal exposure for five different PFASs and birth weight, with more pronounced associations in girls than in boys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sverre Wikström
- School of Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden. .,Department of Health Sciences, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden.
| | - Ping-I Lin
- 0000 0001 0721 1351grid.20258.3dDepartment of Health Sciences, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden
| | - Christian H. Lindh
- 0000 0001 0930 2361grid.4514.4Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Huan Shu
- 0000 0001 0721 1351grid.20258.3dDepartment of Health Sciences, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden ,0000 0004 1936 9377grid.10548.38Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carl-Gustaf Bornehag
- 0000 0001 0721 1351grid.20258.3dDepartment of Health Sciences, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden ,0000 0001 0670 2351grid.59734.3cDepartment of Preventive Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY USA
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Chen P, Wang R, Yang J, Zhong W, Liu M, Yi S, Zhu L. Stronger estrogenic and antiandrogenic effects on zebrafish larvae displayed by 6:2 polyfluoroalkyl phosphate diester than the 8:2 congener at environmentally relevant concentrations. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 695:133907. [PMID: 31425999 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.133907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Polyfluoroalkyl phosphate esters (PAPs) are one kind of emerging polyfluoroalkyl substances in the environment. However, their in vivo toxicities are largely unknown, especially at environmental relevant concentrations. To fill this gap, zebrafish embryos were exposed to 6:2 or 8:2 diPAP at environmentally relevant concentrations (0.5, 5, 50 ng/L) for 7 d. 6:2 and 8:2 diPAPs upregulated the mRNA and protein levels of aromatase in the exposed larvae, and elevated estradiol (E2) and vitellogenin (VTG) levels, but reduced testosterone (T) and 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT) levels, demonstrating estrogenic and antiandrogenic effects. Among the three ER subtypes, ERβ2 displayed the highest in vivo mRNA expression and the lowest in silico binding energies, suggesting that it was the main target ER subtype responsible for the estrogenic effect. Molecular simulation results indicated that diPAPs and E2 could bind to one common residue, arginine (Arg) 87, in the binding pocket of ERβ2, inducing similar estrogenic disruption mechanisms as E2. Both compounds could form hydrophobic interaction with glutamic acid (Glu) 12 and tryptophan (Trp) 80 and two hydrogen bonds with Arg81 of androgen receptor (AR) ligand-binding domains (LBDs) in antagonistic mode, resulting in a reduced level of AR upon exposure. The in silico binding energies of 6:2 diPAP with both ER and AR were lower than 8:2 diPAP, explaining the observed greater in vivo estrogenic and antiandrogenic activities of 6:2 diPAP. This study provided the first line of evidences that diPAPs could display adverse effects on the endocrine functions of fish species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengyu Chen
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria of Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering of Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Ruihan Wang
- College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610064, PR China
| | - Jing Yang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria of Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering of Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Wenjue Zhong
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria of Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering of Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Menglin Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria of Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering of Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Shujun Yi
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria of Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering of Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Lingyan Zhu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria of Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering of Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
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Behr AC, Plinsch C, Braeuning A, Buhrke T. Activation of human nuclear receptors by perfluoroalkylated substances (PFAS). Toxicol In Vitro 2019; 62:104700. [PMID: 31676336 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2019.104700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Perfluoralkylated substances (PFAS) such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) or perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) are used to produce, e.g., surface coatings with water- and dirt-repellent properties. These substances have been shown to be hepatotoxic in rodents, and the mechanism of action is mostly attributed to the PFAS-mediated activation of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα). In the present study, we investigated by using luciferase-based reporter gene assays whether PFOA, PFOS and six alternative PFAS can activate, in addition to PPARα, eight other human nuclear receptors. All tested PFAS except for perfluorobutanesulfonic acid (PFBS) were able to activate human PPARα. Perfluoro-2-methyl-3-oxahexanoic acid (PMOH) and 3H-perfluoro-3-[(3-methoxypropoxy) propanoic acid] (PMPP) were weak agonists of human PPARγ. The other human nuclear receptors (PPARδ, CAR, PXR, FXR, LXRα, RXRα and RARα) were not affected by any PFAS tested in this study. Although PMOH was more effective than PFOA in stimulating PPARα in the transactivation assay, it was less effective in stimulating PPARα-dependent target gene expression in human HepG2 hepatocarcinoma cells. Notably, any effect observed in this in vitro study only occurred at concentrations higher than 10 μM of the respective PFAS which is in all cases several magnitudes above the average blood concentration in the Western population. Thus, the results suggest that nuclear receptor activation may only play a minor role in potential PFAS-mediated adverse effects in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Cathrin Behr
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Department of Food Safety, Max-Dohrn-Str. 8-10, 10589 Berlin, Germany
| | - Christin Plinsch
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Department of Food Safety, Max-Dohrn-Str. 8-10, 10589 Berlin, Germany
| | - Albert Braeuning
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Department of Food Safety, Max-Dohrn-Str. 8-10, 10589 Berlin, Germany
| | - Thorsten Buhrke
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Department of Food Safety, Max-Dohrn-Str. 8-10, 10589 Berlin, Germany.
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Di Nisio A, Sabovic I, Valente U, Tescari S, Rocca MS, Guidolin D, Dall'Acqua S, Acquasaliente L, Pozzi N, Plebani M, Garolla A, Foresta C. Endocrine Disruption of Androgenic Activity by Perfluoroalkyl Substances: Clinical and Experimental Evidence. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 104:1259-1271. [PMID: 30403786 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2018-01855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Considerable attention has been paid to perfluoroalkyl compounds (PFCs) because of their worldwide presence in humans, wildlife, and environment. A wide variety of toxicological effects is well supported in animals, including testicular toxicity and male infertility. For these reasons, the understanding of epidemiological associations and of the molecular mechanisms involved in the endocrine-disrupting properties of PFCs on human reproductive health is a major concern. OBJECTIVE To investigate the relationship between PFC exposure and male reproductive health. DESIGN This study was performed within a screening protocol to evaluate male reproductive health in high schools. PATIENTS This is a cross-sectional study on 212 exposed males from the Veneto region, one of the four areas worldwide heavily polluted with PFCs, and 171 nonexposed controls. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Anthropometrics, seminal parameters, and sex hormones were measured in young males from exposed areas compared with age-matched controls. We also performed biochemical studies in established experimental models. RESULTS We found that increased levels of PFCs in plasma and seminal fluid positively correlate with circulating testosterone (T) and with a reduction of semen quality, testicular volume, penile length, and anogenital distance. Experimental evidence points toward an antagonistic action of perfluorooctanoic acid on the binding of T to androgen receptor (AR) in a gene reporter assay, a competition assay on an AR-coated surface plasmon resonance chip, and an AR nuclear translocation assay. DISCUSSION This study documents that PFCs have a substantial impact on human health as they interfere with hormonal pathways, potentially leading to male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Di Nisio
- Department of Medicine, Operative Unit of Andrology and Medicine of Human Reproduction, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Iva Sabovic
- Department of Medicine, Operative Unit of Andrology and Medicine of Human Reproduction, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Umberto Valente
- Department of Medicine, Operative Unit of Andrology and Medicine of Human Reproduction, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Simone Tescari
- Department of Medicine, Operative Unit of Andrology and Medicine of Human Reproduction, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Santa Rocca
- Department of Medicine, Operative Unit of Andrology and Medicine of Human Reproduction, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Diego Guidolin
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Stefano Dall'Acqua
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Laura Acquasaliente
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Nicola Pozzi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Mario Plebani
- Department of Medicine, Laboratory Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Garolla
- Department of Medicine, Operative Unit of Andrology and Medicine of Human Reproduction, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Carlo Foresta
- Department of Medicine, Operative Unit of Andrology and Medicine of Human Reproduction, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Jin Z, Chi M, He Q, Pan Y, Sun C. Perfluoroalkane sulfonyl fluorides non-covalently bind to human serum albumin at Sudlow’s sites. Toxicol Lett 2019; 301:17-23. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2018.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Revised: 10/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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Du G, Hu J, Huang Z, Yu M, Lu C, Wang X, Wu D. Neonatal and juvenile exposure to perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS): Advance puberty onset and kisspeptin system disturbance in female rats. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2019; 167:412-421. [PMID: 30368134 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2018.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2018] [Revised: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/06/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) are widespread and persistent chemicals in the environment, and limited data about their effects on puberty development are available. In order to explore the effects of neonatal and juvenile PFOA/PFOS exposure on puberty maturation, female rats were injected with PFOA or PFOS at 0.1, 1 and 10 mg/kg/day during postnatal day (PND) 1-5 or 26-30. The day of vaginal opening (VO) and first estrus were significantly advanced in 10 mg/kg PFOA, 1 and 10 mg/kg PFOS groups after neonatal and juvenile exposure. Besides, neonatal PFOA/PFOS exposure increased body weight and anogenital distance (AGD) in a non-dose-dependent manner. Estradiol and luteinizing hormone levels were also increased with more frequent occurrences of irregular estrous cycles in 0.1 and 1 mg/kg PFOA/PFOS exposure groups. Although no altered ovarian morphology was observed, follicles numbers were reduced in neonatal groups. Kiss1, Kiss1r and ERα mRNA expressions were downregulated after two periods' exposure in the hypothalamic anteroventral periventricular (AVPV) and arcuate (ARC) nuclei. PFOA/PFOS exposure also suppressed kisspeptin fiber intensities, especially at the high dose. In conclusion, neonatal and juvenile are critical exposure periods, during which puberty maturation may be vulnerable to environmental exposure of PFOA/PFOS, and kisspeptin system plays a key role during these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guizhen Du
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China.
| | - Jialei Hu
- Jiangsu Provincial Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zhenyao Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Mingming Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Chuncheng Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Xinru Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Di Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China.
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Perfluorohexanoic acid toxicity, part I: Development of a chronic human health toxicity value for use in risk assessment. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2019; 103:41-55. [PMID: 30639337 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2019.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Revised: 01/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) is a short-chain, six-carbon perfluoroalkyl acid (PFAA) and is a primary impurity, degradant, and metabolite associated with the short-chain fluorotelomer-based chemistry used globally today. The transition to short-chain fluorotelomer-based products as a cornerstone in replacement fluorochemistry has raised questions regarding potential human health risks associated with exposure to fluorotelomer-based substances and therefore, PFHxA. Here, we present a critical review of data relevant to such a risk assessment, including epidemiological studies and in vivo and in vitro toxicity studies that examined PFHxA acute, subchronic, and chronic toxicity. Key findings from toxicokinetic and mode-of-action studies are also evaluated. Sufficient data exist to conclude that PFHxA is not carcinogenic, is not a selective reproductive or developmental toxicant, and does not disrupt endocrine activity. Collectively, effects caused by PFHxA exposure are largely limited to potential kidney effects, are mild and/or reversible, and occur at much higher doses than observed for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). A chronic human-health-based oral reference dose (RfD) for PFHxA of 0.25 mg/kg-day was calculated using benchmark dose modeling of renal papillary necrosis from a chronic rat bioassay. This RfD is four orders of magnitude greater than the chronic oral RfD calculated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for PFOA. The PFHxA RfD can be used to inform public health decisions related to PFHxA and fluorotelomer precursors for which PFHxA is a terminal degradant. These findings clearly demonstrate that PFHxA is less hazardous to human health than PFOA. The analyses presented support site-specific risk assessments as well as product stewardship initiatives for current and future short-chain fluorotelomer-based products.
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Balise VD, Cornelius-Green JN, Kassotis CD, Rector RS, Thyfault JP, Nagel SC. Preconceptional, Gestational, and Lactational Exposure to an Unconventional Oil and Gas Chemical Mixture Alters Energy Expenditure in Adult Female Mice. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:323. [PMID: 31191452 PMCID: PMC6540741 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies conducted in our laboratory have found altered adult health outcomes in animals with prenatal exposure to environmentally relevant levels of unconventional oil and gas (UOG) chemicals with endocrine-disrupting activity. This study aimed to examine potential metabolic health outcomes following a preconception, prenatal and postnatal exposure to a mixture of 23 UOG chemicals. Prior to mating and from gestation day 1 to postnatal day 21, C57BL/6J mice were developmentally exposed to a laboratory-created mixture of 23 UOG chemicals in maternal drinking water. Body composition, spontaneous activity, energy expenditure, and glucose tolerance were evaluated in 7-month-old female offspring. Neither body weight nor body composition differed in 7-month female mice. However, females exposed to 1.5 and 150 μg/kg/day UOG mix had lower total and resting energy expenditure within the dark cycle. In the light cycle, the 1,500 μg//kg/day group had lower total energy expenditure and the 1.5 μg/kg/day group had lower resting energy expenditure. Females exposed to the 150 μg/kg/day group had lower spontaneous activity in the dark cycle, and females exposed to the 1,500 μg/kg/day group had lower activity in the light cycle. This study reports for the first time that developmental exposure to a mixture of 23 UOG chemicals alters energy expenditure and spontaneous activity in adult female mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria D. Balise
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Jennifer N. Cornelius-Green
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | | | - R. Scott Rector
- Department of Nutrition and Health Exercise Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Medicine-Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Research Service, Harry S Truman Memorial Veterans Medical Center, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - John P. Thyfault
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
- Kansas City VA Medical Center, Research Service, Kansas City, MO, United States
| | - Susan C. Nagel
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- *Correspondence: Susan C. Nagel
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80
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Tian M, Huang Q, Wang H, Martin FL, Liu L, Zhang J, Shen H. Biphasic effects of perfluorooctanoic acid on steroidogenesis in mouse Leydig tumour cells. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 83:54-62. [PMID: 30508572 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a persistent organic pollutant, which may possess endocrine disrupting properties. Herein, we investigated the possible mechanism(s) of toxicity and steroidogenesis in mouse Leydig cells. MLTC-1 (mouse Leydig tumour cells) cells were exposed to 0, 50, 100 or 200 μM PFOA for 48 h to ascertain their effects on the nuclear (membrane) receptor responses, steroidogenesis pathway and related regulated gene expression and steroid hormone secretion profiles. Our results reveal that nuclear receptors PXR, SR-B1 and LHR are sensitive to PFOA exposure. PFOA can accumulate in mitochondria and alter cholesterol precursor (fatty acid) mitochondrial transport process-related gene expression and thus inhibit steroid hormone precursor (cholesterol) production. In particular, PFOA exhibits biphasic effects on testosterone and progesterone production at differing levels of exposure. These findings indicate the potential endocrine-related effects of PFOA on steroid hormone secretion in Leydig cells and point to a novel disruption model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiping Tian
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Qingyu Huang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Heng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Health Risk Factors for Seafood of Zhejiang Province, Zhoushan Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Zhejiang Zhoushan, 316021, China
| | - Francis L Martin
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2HE, UK
| | - Liangpo Liu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Heqing Shen
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China.
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81
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Borghoff SJ, Fitch S, Rager JE, Huggett D. A hypothesis-driven weight-of-evidence analysis to evaluate potential endocrine activity of perfluorohexanoic acid. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2018; 99:168-181. [PMID: 30240830 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2018.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Revised: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) is a potential impurity and environmental degradation product of C6-based fluorotelomer products. Considering the potential endocrine activity of perfluoroalkyl acids, a hypothesis-driven weight-of-evidence (WoE) analysis was conducted to evaluate the potential endocrine disruptor activity of PFHxA, as defined by World Health Organization (WHO), across estrogen (E), androgen (A), thyroid (T), and steroidogenesis (S) pathways. A comprehensive literature search identified primary and secondary studies across species for review. The ToxCast/Tox21 database provided in vitro data. Studies identified were reviewed for reliability, and relevance, with endocrine endpoints ranked, and lines of evidence evaluated across pathways. Overall, PFHxA showed no endocrine effects in Japanese medaka, juvenile rainbow trout, chickens or reproductive parameters in northern bobwhite with no significant activity in rodent repeated-dose toxicity, lifetime cancer, or reproductive and developmental studies. In vitro, there was weak or negative activity for T transport protein or activation of E, A or T receptors. PFHxA was also negative in vitro and in vivo for disrupting steroidogenesis. Based on this WoE endocrine analysis, PFHxA exposure did not cause adverse effects associated with alterations in endocrine activity in these models, as such would not be characterized as an endocrine disruptor according to the WHO definition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - S Fitch
- ToxStrategies, Katy, TX, USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To assess the strength of evidence for associations between environmental toxicants and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, suggest potential biological mechanisms based on animal and in vitro studies, and highlight avenues for future research. RECENT FINDINGS Evidence is strongest for links between persistent chemicals, including lead, cadmium, organochlorine pesticides, and polycyclic biphenyls, and preeclampsia, although associations are sometimes not detectable at low-exposure levels. Results have been inconclusive for bisphenols, phthalates, and organophosphates. Biological pathways may include oxidative stress, epigenetic changes, endocrine disruption, and abnormal placental vascularization. Additional prospective epidemiologic studies beginning in the preconception period and extending postpartum are needed to assess the life course trajectory of environmental exposures and women's reproductive and cardiovascular health. Future studies should also consider interactions between chemicals and consider nonlinear associations. These results confirm recommendations by the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the Endocrine Society that providers counsel their pregnant patients to limit exposure to environmental toxicants.
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