Low level lead exposure and oxidative stress: Current opinions

Effects of silver and gold nanoparticles of different sizes in human pulmonary fibroblasts

Silver and gold nanoparticles (Ag-AuNPs) are currently some of the most manufactured nanomaterials. Accordingly, the hazards associated with human exposure to Ag-AuNPs should be investigated to facilitate the risk assessment process. In particular, because pulmonary exposure to Ag-AuNPs occurs during handling of these nanoparticles, it is necessary to evaluate the toxic response in pulmonary cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro mechanisms of toxicity of different sizes of silver (4.7 and 42 nm) and gold nanoparticles (30, 50 and 90 nm) in human pulmonary fibroblasts (HPF). The toxicity was evaluated by observing cell viability and oxidative stress parameters. Data showed that AgNPs-induced cytotoxicity was size-dependent, whereas the AuNPs of the three sizes showed similar cytotoxicity. Silver nanoparticles of 4.7 nm were much more toxic than the large silver nanoparticles and the AuNPs. However, the pre-treatment with the antioxidant, N-acetyl-L-cysteine, protected HPF cells against treatment with Ag-AuNPs. The oxidative stress parameters revealed significant increase in reactive oxygen species levels, depletion of glutathione level and slight, but not statistically significant inactivation of superoxide dismutase, suggesting generation of oxidative stress. Hence, care has to be taken while processing and formulating the Ag-AuNPs till their final finished product.

Associations among environmental exposure to manganese, neuropsychological performance, oxidative damage and kidney biomarkers in children

Environmental exposure to manganese (Mn) results in several toxic effects, mainly neurotoxicity. This study investigated associations among Mn exposure, neuropsychological performance, biomarkers of oxidative damage and early kidney dysfunction in children aged 6-12 years old. Sixty-three children were enrolled in this study, being 43 from a rural area and 20 from an urban area. Manganese was quantified in blood (B-Mn), hair (H-Mn) and drinking water using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The neuropsychological functions assessed were attention, perception, working memory, phonological awareness and executive functions - inhibition. The Intelligence quotient (IQ) was also evaluated. The biomarkers malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyls (PCO), δ-aminolevulinate dehydratase (ALA-D), reactivation indexes with dithiothreitol (ALA-RE/DTT) and ZnCl2 (ALA-RE/ZnCl2), non-protein thiol groups, as well as microalbuminuria (mALB) level and N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) activity were assessed. The results demonstrated that Mn levels in blood, hair and drinking water were higher in rural children than in urban children (p<0.01). Adjusted for potential confounding factors, IQ, age, gender and parents' education, significant associations were observed mainly between B-Mn and visual attention (β=0.649; p<0.001). Moreover, B-Mn was negatively associated with visual perception and phonological awareness. H-Mn was inversely associated with working memory, and Mn levels from drinking water with written language and executive functions - inhibition. Rural children showed a significant increase in oxidative damage to proteins and lipids, as well as alteration in kidney function biomarkers (p<0.05). Moreover, significant associations were found between B-Mn, H-Mn and Mn levels in drinking water and biomarkers of oxidative damage and kidney function, besides between some oxidative stress biomarkers and neuropsychological tasks (p<0.05). The findings of this study suggest an important association between environmental exposure to Mn and toxic effects on neuropsychological function, oxidative damage and kidney function in children.

Results of micronucleus assays with individuals who are occupationally and environmentally exposed to mercury, lead and cadmium

Millions of humans are exposed occupationally and environmentally to lead, mercury and cadmium compounds. Mercury compounds are less abundant but some of them belong to the most toxic chemicals which are known. We evaluated the literature to find out if these metals act in humans as genotoxic carcinogens and if their health effects can be predicted by use of micronucleus (MN) assays with lymphocytes and/or with other genotoxicity tests. Numerous studies showed that lead and mercury induce cancer in humans and also in animals, in vitro experiments with cultured cells indicate that they cause DNA damage via different molecular mechanisms including release of reactive oxygen species and interactions with DNA repair processes. Also in most human studies, positive results were obtained in MN tests with lymphocytes (all 15 occupational studies with lead yielded positive results, with mercury 6 out of 7 investigations were positive). For cadmium, there is clear evidence that it causes cancer in humans; however, induction of chromosomal damage was only seen in high dose experiments with mammalian cells while results of animal and human studies yielded conflicting results (only in 2 of 5MN trials with humans positive findings were reported). Possibly, non-genotoxic mechanisms such as inhibition of apoptosis and interaction with signaling pathways account for the carcinogenic properties of cadmium species. The findings of MN studies with lead and mercury are in excellent agreement with results which were obtained with other endpoints (e.g. chromosomal aberrations and comet formations) and it is evident that this approach can be used for occupational and environmental monitoring of exposed individuals. Important future tasks will be the realization of larger studies with a uniform standardized protocol, the additional evaluation of anomalies other than MN (nuclear buds and bridges) and the combination of such trials with investigations which allow to define the molecular mechanisms relevant for exposed humans.

Effect of Vitamin C Supplementation on Blood Lead Level, Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Status of Battery Manufacturing Workers of Western Maharashtra, India

INTRODUCTION

The high blood lead level induces oxidative stress and alters the antioxidant status of battery manufacturing workers. Supplementation of vitamin C is beneficial to reduce the oxidative stress and to improve the antioxidant status of these workers.

AIM

The main aim of this study was to observe the changes in blood lead levels, oxidative stress i.e. serum lipid peroxide and antioxidant status parameters such as erythrocyte superoxide dismutase and catalase and serum nitrite after the vitamin C supplementation in battery manufacturing workers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study included 36 battery manufacturing workers from Western Maharashtra, India, having age between 20-60 years. All study group subjects were provided vitamin C tablets (500 mg/day for one month) and a blood sample of 10 ml each was drawn by puncturing the anterior cubital vein before and after vitamin C supplementation. The biochemical parameters were estimated by using the standard methods.

RESULTS

Blood lead levels were not significantly altered, however, serum lipid peroxide (p<0.001, -15.56%) and serum nitrite (p<0.001, -21.37%) levels showed significant decrease and antioxidant status parameters such as erythrocyte superoxide dismutase (p<0.001, 38.02%) and catalase (p<0.001, 32.36%) revealed significant increase in battery manufacturing workers after the supplementation of vitamin C.

CONCLUSION

One month vitamin C supplementation in battery manufacturing workers is not beneficial to decrease the blood lead levels. However, it is helpful to reduce the lipid peroxidation and nitrite formation and enhances the erythrocytes superoxide dismutase and catalase activity.

Antioxidant protection of gallic acid against toxicity induced by Pb in blood, liver and kidney of rats

The effect of the antioxidant gallic acid (GA) on Pb toxicity in blood, liver and kidney was investigated in the present study. Rats Wistar received Pb nitrate (50 mg/Kg/day, i.p., 5 days) followed by GA (13.5 mg/Kg, p.o., 3 days) or a chelating agent (EDTA, 55 mg/Kg, i.p.). As result, Pb decreased body weight, hematocrit and blood δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALA-D) activity. In addition, high Pb levels were observed in blood and tissues, together with increased (1) lipid peroxidation in erythrocytes, plasma and tissues, (2) protein oxidation in tissues and (3) plasma aspartate transaminase (AST) levels. These changes were accompanied by decreasing in antioxidant defenses, like superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in tissues and catalase (CAT) activity and reduced glutathione (GSH) in liver. GA was able to reverse Pb-induced decrease in body weight and ALA-D activity, as well as Pb-induced oxidative damages and most antioxidant alterations, however it did not decrease Pb bioaccumulation herein as EDTA did. Furthermore, EDTA did not show antioxidant protection in Pb-treated animals as GA did. In conclusion, GA decreased Pb-induced oxidative damages not by decreasing Pb bioaccumulation, but by improving antioxidant defenses, thus GA may be promising in the treatment of Pb intoxications.

Widespread exposure to lead affects the body condition of free-living whooper swans Cygnus cygnus wintering in Britain

Lead poisoning, through the ingestion of spent lead gunshot, is an established cause of morbidity and mortality in waterbirds globally, but the thresholds at which blood levels begin to affect the physiology of birds in the wild are less well known. Here we determine the prevalence of lead exposure in whooper swans and, for the first time, identify the level of blood lead associated with initial reductions in body condition. Blood lead elevated above background levels (i.e. >20 μg dL(-1)) was found in 41.7% (125/300) of swans tested. Blood lead was significantly negatively associated with winter body condition when levels were ≥44 μg dL(-1) (27/260 = 10%). Our findings indicating that sub-lethal impacts of lead on body condition occur at the lower end of previously established clinical thresholds and that a relatively high proportion of individuals in this population may be affected, reaffirm the importance of reducing contamination of the environment with lead shot.

Lead Exposure and Oxidative Stress: A Systematic Review

Lead is an environmental toxicant that can induce oxidative stress (OS) via reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, which has been reported as an important mechanism underlying lead toxicity (Gurer and Ercal 2000; Pande and Flora 2002; Kasperczyk et al. 2004a; Farmand et al. 2005; Verstraeten et al. 2008; Wang et al. 2009; Martinez-Haro et al. 2011). OS occurs when the generation of ROS exceeds the antioxidant system's ability to defend cells against oxidized molecules. ROS is a term generally used to refer to free radicals derived from O2 (e.g., superoxide anions [O2-] and hydroxyl radicals [OH-]) or to non-radical species (e.g. hydrogen peroxide [H2O2]) (Halliwell and Cross 1994).

Daily intake of lead in Wistar rats at different ages: Biochemical, genotoxic and physiological effects

The effects of the daily intake of feed containing lead (2.0 mg Pb kg(-1)) were evaluated in 45 (Pb45) and 90 (Pb90)-day-old Wistar female rats. Compared to the respective control groups, Pb45 rats consumed more feed and showed greater weight gain, but these parameters returned to control values in Pb90 rats. Higher blood glucose levels were observed in both Pb groups, whereas plasma insulin concentrations were higher in Pb45 but lower in the Pb90 group. Liver glycogen content was lower only in the Pb90 rats. There were no changes in plasma cortisol and acetylcholinesterase activity in the brain. Hematological alterations were observed only in Pb90 rats, which showed lower hemoglobin levels. In the liver, Pb45 rats showed decreased catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities and increased glutathione reductase activity, but in the Pb90 group, glutathione levels were higher. Increased hepatic lipid peroxidation and DNA damage in the lymphocytes were observed in both Pb groups. These results indicate that the daily intake of Pb for different periods results in metabolic changes and in the establishment of oxidative and genotoxic damage in female rats.

A Temporal Association between Accumulated Petrol (Gasoline) Lead Emissions and Motor Neuron Disease in Australia

Background: The age standardised death rate from motor neuron disease (MND) has increased from 1.29 to 2.74 per 100,000, an increase of 112.4% between 1959 and 2013. It is clear that genetics could not have played a causal role in the increased rate of MND deaths over such a short time span. We postulate that environmental factors are responsible for this rate increase. We focus on lead additives in Australian petrol as a possible contributing environmental factor. Methods: The associations between historical petrol lead emissions and MND death trends in Australia between 1962 and 2013 were examined using linear regressions. Results: Regression results indicate best fit correlations between a 20 year lag of petrol lead emissions and age-standardised female death rate (R² = 0.86, p = 4.88 × 10⁻²³), male age standardised death rate (R² = 0.86, p = 9.4 × 10⁻²³) and percent all cause death attributed to MND (R² = 0.98, p = 2.6 × 10⁻⁴⁴). Conclusion: Legacy petrol lead emissions are associated with increased MND death trends in Australia. Further examination of the 20 year lag between exposure to petrol lead and the onset of MND is warranted.

Evaluation and management of lead exposure

Lead, which is widely used in industry, is a common element found in low concentrations in the Earth's crust. Implementations to reduce environmental lead concentrations have resulted in a considerable reduction of lead levels in the environment (air) and a sustained reduction in the blood lead levels of the average citizen. However, people are still being exposed to lead through a variety of routes in everyday commodities. Lead causes health problems such as toxicity of the liver, kidneys, hematopoietic system, and nervous system. Having a carcinogenic risk as well, the IARC classifies inorganic lead compounds as probably carcinogenic to humans (Group 2A). Occupational lead poisonings have decreased due to the efforts to reduce the lead concentrations in the working environment. In contrast, health hazards associated with long-term environmental exposure to low concentrations of lead have been reported steadily. In particular, chronic exposure to low concentrations of lead has been reported to induce cognitive behavioral disturbances in children. It is almost impossible to remove lead completely from the human body, and it is not easy to treat health hazards due to lead exposure. Therefore, reduction and prevention of lead exposure are very important. We reviewed the toxicity and health hazards, monitoring and evaluation, and management of lead exposure.

Heavy Metals and Human Health: Mechanistic Insight into Toxicity and Counter Defense System of Antioxidants

Heavy metals, which have widespread environmental distribution and originate from natural and anthropogenic sources, are common environmental pollutants. In recent decades, their contamination has increased dramatically because of continuous discharge in sewage and untreated industrial effluents. Because they are non-degradable, they persist in the environment; accordingly, they have received a great deal of attention owing to their potential health and environmental risks. Although the toxic effects of metals depend on the forms and routes of exposure, interruptions of intracellular homeostasis include damage to lipids, proteins, enzymes and DNA via the production of free radicals. Following exposure to heavy metals, their metabolism and subsequent excretion from the body depends on the presence of antioxidants (glutathione, α-tocopherol, ascorbate, etc.) associated with the quenching of free radicals by suspending the activity of enzymes (catalase, peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase). Therefore, this review was written to provide a deep understanding of the mechanisms involved in eliciting their toxicity in order to highlight the necessity for development of strategies to decrease exposure to these metals, as well as to identify substances that contribute significantly to overcome their hazardous effects within the body of living organisms.

Lead, Arsenic, and Manganese Metal Mixture Exposures: Focus on Biomarkers of Effect

The increasing exposure of human populations to excessive levels of metals continues to represent a matter of public health concern. Several biomarkers have been studied and proposed for the detection of adverse health effects induced by lead (Pb), arsenic (As), and manganese (Mn); however, these studies have relied on exposures to each single metal, which fails to replicate real-life exposure scenarios. These three metals are commonly detected in different environmental, occupational, and food contexts and they share common neurotoxic effects, which are progressive and once clinically apparent may be irreversible. Thus, chronic exposure to low levels of a mixture of these metals may represent an additive risk of toxicity. Building upon their shared mechanisms of toxicity, such as oxidative stress, interference with neurotransmitters, and effects on the hematopoietic system, we address putative biomarkers, which may assist in assessing the onset of neurological diseases associated with exposure to this metal mixture.

Association of blood lead levels with urinary F₂-8α isoprostane and 8-hydroxy-2-deoxy-guanosine concentrations in first-grade Uruguayan children

Oxidative stress (OS) is a potential molecular mechanism for lead-induced toxicities, yet, we have limited understanding of the relation between low-level lead (Pb) exposure and OS, especially in children. This cross-sectional study examines the association between blood lead level (BLL) and two OS markers-urinary F2-8α isoprostane or isoprostane (a marker of lipid peroxidation) and 8-hydroxy-2-deoxy-Guanosine or 8-OH-dG (a marker of DNA damage) in 211 children, aged 5-8 years, from Montevideo, Uruguay. The role of dietary intakes of vitamin C and zinc in modifying the relation between BLL and OS was also examined. The mean (SD) BLL of the study children was 4.7 (2.2) µg/dL, with 30.2% children having BLL ≥5 µg/dL, the current reference level set by the US Centre for Disease Control for identifying, monitoring and management of children with elevated BLL. In covariate-adjusted analysis, there was a weak positive association between BLL and urinary isoprostane (adjusted for specific gravity) [β=0.09, p<0.1]. No association was found between children's BLL and urinary 8-OH-dG. Interactions between dietary intakes of vitamin C or zinc and BLL on OS biomarkers were not consistent. However, when BLL and vitamin C or BLL and zinc were modeled together, BLL was independently associated with isoprostane concentration [β=0.10, p<0.05] but vitamin C or zinc intake was not. These findings suggest that there may be a potential adverse effect of BLL on OS in children with low-level Pb exposure. There is a need to study the effects of Pb on other OS measures, as well as the role of OS in mediating low-level Pb toxicity on functional outcomes.

Effects of Waterborne Lead Exposure in Mozambique Tilapia: Oxidative Stress, Osmoregulatory Responses, and Tissue Accumulation

We studied the oxidative stress and osmoregulatory damage as well as the accumulation of lead in Mozambique Tilapia Oreochromis mossambicus exposed to different sublethal concentrations-low, medium, and high (0.5, 2.5, and 5.0 mg/L)-of waterborne lead for 14 d in a semistatic condition. The accumulated levels of Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase, glutathione (GSH), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were determined from samples of gill, liver, intestine, brain, kidney, and muscle tissues. At the end of the experiment, the GSH levels of most tissues were higher in the treated group than in the control group (especially in the liver and kidney) but lower in the intestine. The levels of TBARS in the gill and brain tissues of the fish exposed to high lead doses were significantly higher than those of fish in the control group. Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase activity seemed to be significantly inhibited in the gill, intestine, and brain tissues across all treatment groups. At the end of the study, the total amount of lead that had accumulated within the various tissues ranked as follows: intestines > kidney > brain > gill > liver > muscle. Our findings suggest that sublethal concentrations of lead can disrupt the health of Mozambique Tilapia and cause oxidative stress and osmoregulatory damage.

Mitochondria defects are involved in lead-acetate-induced adult hematopoietic stem cell decline

Occupational high-grade lead exposure has been reduced in recent decades as a result of increased regulation. However, environmental lead exposure remains widespread, and is associated with severe toxicity implicated in human diseases. We performed oral intragastric administration of various dose lead acetate to adult Sprague Dawley rats to define the role of lead exposure in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) function, and to clarify its underlying mechanism. Lead acetate-exposed rats exhibited developmental abnormalities in myeloid and lymphoid lineages, and a significant decline in immune functions. It also showed HSCs functional decline associated with senescent phenotype with low grade lead acetate exposure or apoptotic phenotype with relative higher grade dose exposure. Mechanistic exploration showed a significant increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the lead acetate-exposed CD90(+)CD45(-) compartment, which correlated with functional defects in cellular mitochondria. Furthermore, in vivo treatment with the antioxidant vitamin C led to reversion of the CD90(+)CD45(-) compartment functional decline. These results indicate that lead acetate perturbs the hematopoietic balance of adult HSCs, associated with cellular mitochondria defects, increased intracellular ROS generation.

Insight into the oxidative stress induced by lead and/or cadmium in blood, liver and kidneys

Besides being important occupational hazards, lead and cadmium are nowadays metals of great environmental concern. Both metals, without any physiological functions, can induce serious adverse health effects in various organs and tissues. Although Pb and Cd are non-redox metals, one of the important mechanisms underlying their toxicity is oxidative stress induction as a result of the generation of reactive species and/or depletion of the antioxidant defense system. Considering that the co-exposure to both metals is a much more realistic scenario, the effects of these metals on oxidative status when simultaneously present in the organism have become one of the contemporary issues in toxicology. This paper reviews short and long term studies conducted on Pb or Cd-induced oxidative stress in blood, liver and kidneys as the most prominent target organs of the toxicity of these metals and proposes the possible molecular mechanisms of the observed effects. The review is also focused on the results obtained for the effects of the combined treatment with Pb and Cd on oxidative status in target organs and on the mechanisms of their possible interactions.

Effect of dietary lead on intestinal nutrient transporters mRNA expression in broiler chickens

Lead- (Pb-) induced oxidative stress is known to suppress growth performance and feed efficiency in broiler chickens. In an attempt to describe the specific underlying mechanisms of such phenomenon we carried out the current study. Ninety-six one-day-old broiler chicks were randomly assigned to 2 dietary treatment groups of 6 pen replicates, namely, (i) basal diet containing no lead supplement (control) and (ii) basal diet containing 200 mg lead acetate/kg of diet. Following 3 weeks of experimental period, jejunum samples were collected to examine the changes in gene expression of several nutrient transporters, antioxidant enzymes, and heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) using quantitative real-time PCR. The results showed that addition of lead significantly decreased feed intake, body weight gain, and feed efficiency. Moreover, with the exception of GLUT5, the expression of all sugar, peptide, and amino acid transporters was significantly downregulated in the birds under Pb induced oxidative stress. Exposure to Pb also upregulated the antioxidant enzymes gene expression together with the downregulation of glutathione S-transferase and Hsp70. In conclusion, it appears that Pb-induced oxidative stress adversely suppresses feed efficiency and growth performance in chicken and the possible underlying mechanism for such phenomenon is downregulation of major nutrient transporter genes in small intestine.

Effects of early-life lead exposure on oxidative status and phagocytosis activity in great tits (Parus major)

Lead is a highly poisonous metal with a very long half-life, distributing throughout the body in blood and accumulating primarily in bones and kidney. We studied the short and long-term effects of early-life lead exposure on antioxidant defense and phagocytosis activity in a small passerine bird, the great tit (Parus major) by manipulating dietary lead levels of the nestlings. We had three experimental groups, exposed to environmentally relevant lead concentrations; high (4 μg/g body mass), low (1 μg/g body mass) and control (0 μg/g body mass) group. As a comparison, a great tit population breeding in the vicinity of a metal smelter was included to the experimental set-up. We measured glutathione, the ratio of reduced and oxidized glutathione, and the antioxidant enzymes: glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase, catalase and superoxide dismutase together with protein carbonylation and phagocytosis activity to study the effects of lead on the oxidative status and immune function of birds. We found differences in enzyme activities between the study groups, but in most cases the smelter group differed from the other groups. Despite the differences observed in antioxidant enzymes, our results indicate only minor short-term effects of lead exposure on oxidative status, since either glutathione ratio or protein carbonylation were not affected by lead. Phagocytosis activity was not linked to higher lead concentrations either. Interestingly, protein carbonylation was positively associated with enzyme activities and glutathione level. Our results did not show major long-term effects of lead on the oxidative status of great tits.

Cognitive deficits and ALA-D-inhibition in children exposed to multiple metals

Children are especially vulnerable to adverse effects of multiple metals exposure. The aim of this study was to assess some metals concentrations such as lead (Pb), arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn) and iron (Fe) in whole blood, serum, hair and drinking water samples using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) in rural and urban children. In addition, evaluate the adverse effects of multiple metals exposure on cognitive function and δ-aminolevulinate dehydratase (ALA-D) activity. The cognitive ability assessment was performed by the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM) test. The ALA-D activity and ALA-D reactivation index (ALA-RE) activity with DTT and ZnCl2 also were determined. Forty-six rural children and 23 urban children were enrolled in this study. Rural children showed percentile IQ scores in the RCPM test significantly decreased in relation to urban children. According to multiple linear regression analysis, the Mn and Fe in hair may account for the cognitive deficits of children. Manganese and Fe in hair also were positively correlated with Mn and Fe in drinking water, respectively. These results suggest that drinking water is possibly a source of metals exposure in children. ALA-D activity was decreased and ALA-RE with DTT and ZnCl2 was increased in rural children in comparison to urban children. Moreover, ALA-D inhibition was correlated with Cr blood levels and ALA-RE/DDT and ALA-RE/ZnCl2 were correlated with levels of Cr and Hg in blood. Thus, our results indicated some adverse effects of children's exposure to multiple metals, such as cognitive deficits and ALA-D inhibition, mainly associated to Mn, Fe, Cr and Hg.

Comparing acute toxicity of gunshot particles, from firing conventional and lead-free ammunition, in pulmonary epithelial cell cultures

Numerous studies demonstrated that the use of lead (Pb)-containing ammunition is associated with mainly chronic health problems and also is a burden on the environment and wildlife. Recently, a number of reports showed evidence of undesirable acute health effects related to the use of newly developed Pb-free small-caliber ammunition. In this study, particles from leaded and Pb-free ammunition were collected in liquid collection medium, in a highly controlled chamber, while firing a pistol (9 mm) or a rifle (7.62 × 51 mm). The emitted particles were typically smaller than 4 μm, with the great majority in even smaller size ranges, as shown by gravimetrical analysis and a multistage impactor. Chemical analysis revealed significant differences in content and concentration of several metals in the particles. After administration of the liquids to alveolar and bronchial in vitro cell systems, particles were taken up by the cells; the Pb-free particles displayed higher cytotoxicity (EC50 = 2 μg/cm(2)) than particles from Pb ammunition. High correlation factors (>0.9) were found between cell death and content of copper and zinc. Particles from both Pb-containing and Pb-free ammunition were able to induce oxidative stress and the proinflammatory marker interleukin (IL)-8 in both in vitro systems. These results support previous findings that indicate an association between gunshot emissions and metal fume fever. This study demonstrates the usefulness of combining chemical data with biological in vitro responses in assessing acute toxicological effects from emissions from firing both Pb and Pb-free ammunition.

Smart gold nanosensor for easy sensing of lead and copper ions in solution and using paper strips

A smart gold nanosensor, Au–TA–DNS is designed that can rapidly detect very low concentrations of Pb²⁺ and Cu²⁺ ions.

Perinatal exposure to lead: reduction in alterations of brain mitochondrial antioxidant system with calcium supplement

Lead (Pb) is a potent neurotoxicant that causes several neurochemical and behavioral alterations. Previous studies showed that the gestational and lactational exposure to Pb reduces the cholinergic and aminergic systems, and behavior of rats. The present study was designed to examine the protective effects of calcium supplementation against Pb-induced oxidative stress in cerebellum and hippocampus of brain at postnatal day (PND) 21, PND 28, PND 35, and PND 60. Pregnant rats were exposed to 0.2 % Pb (Pb acetate in drinking water) from gestational day 6 (GD 6) and pups were exposed through maternal milk till weaning (PND 21). We found that the activity of serum ceruloplasmin oxidase (Cp), mitochondrial manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD), copper zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), and xanthine oxidase (XO) enzyme activities were decreased, whereas the malondialdehyde (MDA) levels increased in the cerebellum and hippocampus of Pb-exposed rats. These changes were more prominent at PND 35 and greater in hippocampus compared to cerebellum. Among the enzyme activities, Mn-SOD and Cu/Zn-SOD showed maximum decrease compared to GPx, CAT, XO, and Cp. Furthermore, 0.02 % calcium supplementation together with 0.2 % Pb significantly reversed the Pb-induced alterations in the enzyme activities, and MDA levels. In conclusion, these data suggest that early life exposure to Pb induce alterations in the mitochondrial antioxidant system of brain regions which remain for long even after Pb exposure has stopped. Calcium supplementation may potentially be beneficial in treating Pb toxicity in the developing rat brain.

Maternal lead exposure and risk of congenital heart defects occurrence in offspring

Maternal lead exposure may be harmful to fetal development. However, sufficient evidence was lacked about the risk on cardiac development in offspring. To explore the association between maternal lead exposure and risks of congenital heart defects (CHDs) occurrence in fetuses, a case-control study was adopted during pregnant women making antenatal examinations. The maternal hair lead levels were measured by using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and logistic regression analysis was used to calculate the odds ratio (OR). Three hundred and sixteen cases and 348 controls were eligible to the study. The median level of lead in maternal hair of case (0.670ng/mg) was significantly higher (AOR 3.07, 95% CI 2.00-4.72) than that of the control (0.461ng/mg), including the CHD cases with or without extracardiac malformations (AOR 3.55, 2.94, respectively). Maternal lead exposure is associated with the risk of some subtypes of CHDs occurrence in offspring. The potential dose-response relationship is also presented.

Ameliorative effects of ferulic Acid against lead acetate-induced oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunctions and toxicity in prepubertal rat brain

Epidemiological evidence has shown higher susceptibility of Children to the adverse effects of lead (Pb) exposure. However, experimental studies on Pb-induced neurotoxicity in prepubertal (PP) rats are limited. The present study aimed to examine the propensity of ferulic acid (FA), a commonly occurring phenolic acid in staple foods (fruits, vegetables, cereals, coffee etc.) to abrogate Pb-induced toxicity. Initially, we characterized Pb-induced adverse effects among PP rats exposed to Pb acetate (1,000-3,000 ppm in drinking water) for 5 weeks in terms of locomotor phenotype, activity of 5-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) in the blood, blood Pb levels and oxidative stress in brain regions. Further, the ameliorative effects of oral supplements of FA (25 mg/kg bw/day) were investigated in PP rats exposed to Pb (3,000 ppm). Pb intoxication increased the locomotor activity and FA supplements partially reversed the phenotype, while the reduced ALAD activity was also restored. FA significantly abrogated the enhanced oxidative stress in cerebellum (Cb) and hippocampus (Hc) as evidenced in terms of ROS generation, lipid peroxidation and protein carbonyls. Further, Pb-mediated perturbations in the glutathione levels and activity of enzymic antioxidants were also markedly restored. Furthermore, the protective effect of FA was discernible in striatum in terms of reduced oxidative stress, restored cholinergic activity and dopamine levels. Interestingly, reduced activity levels of mitochondrial complex I in Cb and enhanced levels in Hc among Pb-intoxicated rats were ameliorated by FA supplements. FA also decreased the number of damaged cells in cornu ammonis area CA1 and dentate gyrus as reflected by the histoarchitecture of Hc among Pb intoxicated rats. Collectively, our findings in the PP model allow us to hypothesize that ingestion of common phenolics such as FA may significantly alleviate the neurotoxic effects of Pb which may be largely attributed to its ability to abrogate oxidative stress.

Evaluation of toxic metals and essential elements in children with learning disabilities from a rural area of southern Brazil

Children’s exposure to metals can result in adverse effects such as cognitive function impairments. This study aimed to evaluate some toxic metals and levels of essential trace elements in blood, hair, and drinking water in children from a rural area of Southern Brazil. Cognitive ability and δ-aminolevulinate dehydratase (ALA-D) activity were evaluated. Oxidative stress was evaluated as a main mechanism of metal toxicity, through the quantification of malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. This study included 20 children from a rural area and 20 children from an urban area. Our findings demonstrated increase in blood lead (Pb) levels (BLLs). Also, increased levels of nickel (Ni) in blood and increase of aluminum (Al) levels in hair and drinking water in rural children were found. Deficiency in selenium (Se) levels was observed in rural children as well. Rural children with visual-motor immaturity presented Pb levels in hair significantly increased in relation to rural children without visual-motor immaturity (p < 0.05). Negative correlations between BLLs and ALA-D activity and positive correlations between BLLs and ALA-RE activity were observed. MDA was significantly higher in rural compared to urban children (p < 0.05). Our findings suggest that rural children were co-exposed to toxic metals, especially Al, Pb and Ni. Moreover, a slight deficiency of Se was observed. Low performance on cognitive ability tests and ALA-D inhibition can be related to metal exposure in rural children. Oxidative stress was suggested as a main toxicological mechanism involved in metal exposure.

Are delta-aminolevulinate dehydratase inhibition and metal concentrations additional factors for the age-related cognitive decline?

Aging is often accompanied by cognitive impairments and influenced by oxidative status and chemical imbalances. Thus, this study was conducted to examine whether age-related cognitive deficit is associated with oxidative damage, especially with inhibition of the enzyme delta-aminolevulinate dehydratase (ALA-D), as well as to verify the influence of some metals in the enzyme activity and cognitive performance. Blood ALA-D activity, essential (Fe, Zn, Cu, Se) and non-essential metals (Pb, Cd, Hg, As, Cr, Ni, V) were measured in 50 elderly and 20 healthy young subjects. Cognitive function was assessed by tests from Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer’s Disease (CERAD) battery and other. The elderly group presented decreased ALA-D activity compared to the young group. The index of ALA-D reactivation was similar to both study groups, but negatively associated with metals. The mean levels of essential metals were within the reference values, while the most toxic metals were above them in both groups. Cognitive function impairments were observed in elderly group and were associated with decreased ALA-D activity, with lower levels of Se and higher levels of toxic metals (Hg and V). Results suggest that the reduced ALA-D activity in elderly can be an additional factor involved in cognitive decline, since its inhibition throughout life could lead to accumulation of the neurotoxic compound ALA. Toxic metals were found to contribute to cognitive decline and also to influence ALA-D reactivation.

In vitro and in vivo effects of sublethal cadmium on the expression of MT2 and ABCC2 genes in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus)

To gain more knowledge about the physiological regulation of metal pollutant detoxification in grass carp, we examined Cd concentration and its the potential influence on the expression of metallothionein 2 (MT2) and multidrug resistance protein 2 (ABCC2) mRNA in the liver and kidney, using in vitro and in vivo experiments. First, the full-length of MT2 cDNA and partial ABCC2 cDNA was obtained, consisting 183bp and 366bp respectively. In vivo approach, grass carp received 96h exposure of Cd (1/10 LD50), and MT2 and ABCC2 mRNA expression were determined by qRT-PCR. The Cd treatment resulted in an increase of MT2 mRNA level in the liver with Cd accumulation. Nonetheless, the elevation ABCC2 mRNA in the liver was appeared at 48h after Cd exposure, as well as the expression of MT2 and ABCC2 mRNA in the kidney. The in vitro experiment was carried out using the hepatocyte (L86) and nephroblasts (CIK). The qRT-RCR results showed that MT2 and ABCC2 mRNA dramatically increased following Cd exposure (1/10 LD50); however, ABCC2 mRNA expression was suppressed in the L86 cell line at first (6h). In conclusion, this result suggested that both MT2 and ABCC2 mRNA may play important roles in the detoxification of toxic metals, and MT2 gene was more sensitive to Cd induction.

Changing blood lead levels and oxidative stress with duration of residence among Taiwan immigrants

Immigrants lack appropriate health care access and other resources needed to reduce their exposure to preventable environmental health risks. Little is known about the impact of lead exposure and oxidative stress among immigrants. Thus, this study was to examine the differences between the blood lead levels (BLLs) and oxidative stress levels of immigrants and non-immigrants, and to investigate the determinants of increased BLLs or oxidative stress levels among immigrants. We collected demographic data of 239 immigrant women and 189 non-immigrant women who resettled in the central area of Taiwan. Each study participant provided blood samples for genotyping and for measuring blood metal levels and oxidative stress. Recent immigrants were at risk for elevated BLLs. Decreased BLLs, malondialdehyde (MDA), and increased blood selenium levels were significantly associated with duration of residence in Taiwan. Elevated BLLs and MDA in recent immigrants may serve as a warning sign for the health care system. The nation's health will benefit from improved regulation of living environments, thereby improving the health of immigrants.

Low dose of arsenic trioxide triggers oxidative stress in zebrafish brain: expression of antioxidant genes

Occurrence of arsenic in the aquatic environment of West Bengal (India), Bangladesh and other countries are of immediate environmental concern. In the present study, zebrafish (Danio rerio) was used as a model to investigate oxidative stress related enzyme activities and expression of antioxidant genes in the brain to 50µg/L arsenic trioxide for 90 days. In treated fish, generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA) and conjugated diene (CD) showed a triphasic response attaining a peak at the end of the exposure. In addition, a gradual increase in GSH level was noted until 60 days and at 90 days, a sudden fall was recorded which heightened arsenic toxicity. However, GSH level does not correlate well with the glutathione reductase (GR) activity. Generation of ROS in zebrafish brain due to As2O3 exposure was further evidenced by significant alteration of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) activity, which converts H2O2 to water and helps in detoxication. Moreover, enhanced mRNA level of nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) in As2O3 exposed zebrafish indicates a protective role of Nrf2. kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), a negative regulator of Nrf2, inversely correlates with the mRNA expression of Nrf2. As2O3 induced toxicity was also validated by the alteration in NRF2 and NRF2 dependent expression of proteins such as heme oxygenase1 (HO1) and NAD(P)H dehydrogenase quinone1 (NQO1). The mRNA expression of glutathione peroxidase (Gpx1), catalase (Cat), manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn-Sod), copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn Sod) and cytochrome c oxidase1 (Cox1) were also up regulated. The expression of uncoupling protein 2 (Ucp2), an important mitochondrial enzyme was also subdued in arsenic exposed zebrafish. The oxidative stress induced by arsenic also cause reduced mRNA expression of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2) present in the inner mitochondrial membrane and thereby indicating onset of apoptosis in treated fish. It is concluded that even a low dose of arsenic trioxide is toxic enough to induce significant oxidative stress in zebrafish brain.

Role of the mitochondrial Ca²⁺ uniporter in Pb²⁺-induced oxidative stress in human neuroblastoma cells

Lead (Pb(2+)) has been shown to induce cellular oxidative stress, which is linked to changes in intracellular calcium (Ca(2+)) concentration. The mitochondrial Ca(2+) uniporter (MCU) participates in the maintenance of Ca(2+) homeostasis in neurons, but its role in Pb(2+)-induced oxidative stress is unclear. To address this question, oxidative stress was induced in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells and in newborn rats by Pb(2+) treatment. The results showed that the production of reactive oxygen species is increased in cells upon treatment with Pb(2+) in a dose-dependent manner, while glutathione and MCU expression were reduced. Moreover, neuronal nitric oxide synthase protein expression was elevated in rats exposed to Pb(2+) during gestation, while MCU expression was decreased. Application of the MCU activator spermine or MCU overexpression reversed Pb(2+)-induced oxidative stress and inhibition of mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake, while the MCU inhibitor Ru360 and MCU knockdown potentiated the effects of Pb(2+). These results indicate that the MCU mediates the Pb(2+)-induced oxidative stress response in neurons through the regulation of mitochondrial Ca(2+) influx.

Chronic effects of environmentally-relevant concentrations of lead in Pelophylax nigromaculata tadpoles: Threshold dose and adverse effects

Lead (Pb) is a common heavy metal in the natural environment, but its concentration has been increasing alongside widespread industrial and agricultural development in China. The dark-spotted frog Pelophylax (formerly Rana) nigromaculata (Anura: Ranidae) is distributed across East Asia and inhabits anthropogenic habitats such as farmland. Here, P. nigromaculata tadpoles (Gosner stage 19-46) were exposed to Pb at different concentrations (0, 40, 80, 160, 320, 640 and 1280µg/L) and Pb-induced survival, metamorphosis time, development, malformations, mobility and gonad structure were monitored. The results showed that above the threshold concentration of Pb, adverse effects were obvious. As the concentration of Pb increased, the adverse effects on different traits followed different patterns: the effects on hindlimb length, survival rate, metamorphosis rate, total malformation rate, swimming speed and jumping speed largely exhibited a linear pattern; the effects on snout-vent length, body mass and forelimb length largely exhibited a bimodal pattern. Sex ratio and gonadal histology were not affected by Pb, suggesting that Pb is not strongly estrogenic in P. nigromaculata.

Neuroprotective effects of xanthone derivative of Garcinia mangostana against lead-induced acetylcholinesterase dysfunction and cognitive impairment

Lead poisoning is a common environmental toxicity and low level of lead exposure is responsible for neurobehavioral or intelligence defects. This study was designed to investigate the protective effect of a xanthone derivative of Garcinia mangostana against lead-induced acetycholinesterase (AChE) dysfunction and cognitive impairment in mice. ICR mice were exposed to lead acetate (Pb) in drinking water (1%) with or without xanthone co-administration (100 and 200mg/kgBW/day) for 38days. Xanthone possesses a high phenolic content, which is positive correlation with its antioxidant activity (R(2)=0.98). The IC50 of xanthone on scavenging free radical activities, hydroxyl radical, superoxide radical, hydrogen peroxide and nitric oxide in cell-free system were 0.48±0.08, 1.88±0.09, 2.20±0.03 and 0.98±0.40mg/mL, respectively. We found that Pb induced AChE dysfunction and memory deficit in a dose dependent manner, indicated by in vitro and in vivo studies. However, xanthone significantly restored AChE activity in the blood and brains of mice and prevented Pb-induced neurobehavioral defect indicators with Forced Swimming and Morris water maze tests. Xanthone treatment improved all indicators compared to the Pb-treated group. In conclusion, xanthone alleviates Pb-induced neurotoxicity, in part, by suppression of oxidative damage and reversing AChE activity with a reduction in learning deficit and memory loss.

Interactions of manufactured silver nanoparticles of different sizes with normal human dermal fibroblasts

Silver compounds have been used for their medicinal properties for centuries. At present, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are reemerging as a viable topical treatment option for infections encountered in burns, open wounds and chronic ulcers. This study evaluated the in vitro mechanisms of two different sizes of AgNPs (4·7 and 42 nm) toxicity in normal human dermal fibroblasts. The toxicity was evaluated by observing cell viability and oxidative stress parameters. In all toxicity endpoints studied (MTT and lactate dehydrogenase assays), AgNPs of 4·7 nm were much more toxic than the large AgNPs (42 nm). The cytotoxicity of both AgNPs was greatly decreased by pre-treatment with the antioxidant N-acetyl-L-cysteine. The oxidative stress parameters showed significant increase in reactive oxygen species levels, depletion of glutathione level and slight, but not statistically significant inactivation of superoxide dismutase, suggesting generation of oxidative stress. Thus, AgNPs should be used with caution for the topical treatment of burns and wounds, medical devices etc, because their toxicity depends on the size, the smaller NPs being much more cytotoxic than the large.

Lead exposure and rate of change in cognitive function in older women

BACKGROUND

Higher long-term cumulative lead exposure predicts faster cognitive decline in older men, but evidence of an association in women is lacking.

OBJECTIVE

To determine if there is an association between lead exposure and cognitive decline in women.

METHODS

This study considers a sample of 584 women from the Nurses' Health Study who live in or near Boston, Massachusetts. We quantified lead exposure using biomarkers of lead exposure assessed in 1993-2004 and evaluated cognitive decline by repeated performance on a telephone battery of cognitive tests primarily assessing learning, memory, executive function, and attention completed in 1995-2008. All cognitive test scores were z-transformed for use in analyses. We used linear mixed models with random effects to quantify the association between each lead biomarker and change in cognition overall and on each individual test.

RESULTS

Consideration of individual tests showed greater cognitive decline with increased tibia lead concentrations, a measure of long-term cumulative exposure, for story memory and category fluency. The estimated excess annual decline in overall cognitive test z-score per SD increase in tibia bone lead concentration was suggestive, although the confidence intervals included the null (0.024 standard units, 95% confidence interval: -0.053, 0.004 - an additional decline in function equivalent to being 0.33 years older). We found little support for associations between cognitive decline and patella or blood lead, which provide integrated measures of exposure over shorter timeframes.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term cumulative lead exposure may be weakly associated with faster cognitive decline in community-dwelling women, at least in some cognitive domains.

Taurine mitigates cognitive impairment induced by chronic co-exposure of male Wistar rats to chlorpyrifos and lead acetate

Organophosphate pesticides and heavy metals are ubiquitous environmental pollutants and neurotoxicants. We investigated the effects of taurine (an antioxidant; TA) on oxidative stress and cognition in male Wistar rats co-treated with chlorpyrifos (an organophosphate pesticide; CPF) and lead acetate (heavy metal; LA). The Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups of 10 rats each. The first two groups were administered with distilled water and soya oil respectively. The remaining three groups were administered with taurine (TA), 50 mg/kg body weight, CPF+LA group [CPF (4.25 mg/kg, 1/20 LD₅₀] and LA (233.25 mg/kg, 1/20 LD₅₀) and TA+CPF+LA group [TA (50 mg/kg), CPF (4.25 mg/kg) and LA (233.25 mg/kg)]. The xenobiotics were administered once daily by oral gavage for 16 weeks. The results showed reductions in the activities of brain antioxidant enzymes and acetylcholinesterase, increased lipoperoxidation and histopathological alterations of the cerebral cortex in the CPF+LA group. However, TA mitigated perturbations in the activities of the antioxidant enzymes and acetylcholinesterase, counteracted oxidative stress and brain lipoperoxidation and attenuated neuronal degeneration induced by joint CPF and LA-induced neurotoxicity. The results suggested that TA is neuroprotective following chronic co-exposure of rats to CPF and LA.

Quercetin protects mouse brain against lead-induced neurotoxicity

Quercetin (QE), the major bioflavonoid in the human diet, has been reported to have many benefits and medicinal properties. However, its protective effects against lead (Pb)-induced neurotoxicity have not been clarified. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of QE on neurotoxicity in mice exposed to Pb. Mice were exposed to lead acetate (20 mg/kg body weight/day) intragastrically with or without QE (15 and 30 mg/kg body weight/day) coadministration for 3 months. The data showed that QE significantly prevented Pb-induced neurotoxicity in a dose-dependent manner. Exploration of the underlying mechanisms of QE action revealed that QE administration decreased Pb contents in blood (13.2, 19.1%) and brain (17.1, 20.0%). QE markedly increased NO production (39.1, 61.1%) and PKA activity (51.0, 57.8%) in brains of Pb-treated mice. Additionally, QE remarkably suppressed Pb-induced oxidative stress in mouse brain. Western blot analysis showed that QE increased the phosphorylations of Akt, CaMKII nNOS, eNOS, and CREB in brains of Pb-treated mice. The results suggest that QE can inhibit Pb-induced neurotoxicity and partly restore PKA, Akt, NOS, CaMKII, and CREB activities.

Protective effect of puerarin on lead-induced mouse cognitive impairment via altering activities of acetyl cholinesterase, monoamine oxidase and nitric oxide synthase

Puerarin (PU), a natural flavonoid, has been reported to have many benefits and medicinal properties. The present study aimed to investigate the protective effects of puerarin on neurotoxicity in mice exposed to lead. ICR mice were exposed to lead acetate in the drinking water (500 ppm) with or without puerarin coadministration (100 and 200 mgPU/kg intragastrically once daily) for three months. We found puerarin significantly prevented Pb-induced neurotoxicity in a dose-dependent manner, indicated by behavioral indicators. Puerarin also decreased Pb contents in blood and brain. Puerarin increased activities of acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) and monoamine oxidase (MAO) in brain of Pb-treated mice. Moreover, Pb-induced profound elevation of oxidative stress, as evidenced by increasing of lipid peroxidation level and depleting of total antioxidant capacity in brain, were suppressed by treatment with puerarin. Puerarin markedly increased NO production and PKA activity in brain of Pb-treated mice. Western blot analysis showed that puerarin dramatically increased the expression levels of nNOS, eNOS and phosphor-Akt in brains of Pb-treated mice. In conclusion, these results suggested that puerarin can inhibit Pb-induced neurotoxicity, at least in part, by suppressing oxidative stress, reversing the Pb-induced alterations in transmitters and enzymes and modulating the PKA/Akt/NOS signaling pathway.