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Snapkow I, Smith NM, Arnesdotter E, Beekmann K, Blanc EB, Braeuning A, Corsini E, Sollner Dolenc M, Duivenvoorde LPM, Sundstøl Eriksen G, Franko N, Galbiati V, Gostner JM, Grova N, Gutleb AC, Hargitai R, Janssen AWF, Krapf SA, Lindeman B, Lumniczky K, Maddalon A, Mollerup S, Parráková L, Pierzchalski A, Pieters RHH, Silva MJ, Solhaug A, Staal YCM, Straumfors A, Szatmári T, Turner JD, Vandebriel RJ, Zenclussen AC, Barouki R. New approach methodologies to enhance human health risk assessment of immunotoxic properties of chemicals - a PARC (Partnership for the Assessment of Risk from Chemicals) project. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2024; 6:1339104. [PMID: 38654939 PMCID: PMC11035811 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2024.1339104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
As a complex system governing and interconnecting numerous functions within the human body, the immune system is unsurprisingly susceptible to the impact of toxic chemicals. Toxicants can influence the immune system through a multitude of mechanisms, resulting in immunosuppression, hypersensitivity, increased risk of autoimmune diseases and cancer development. At present, the regulatory assessment of the immunotoxicity of chemicals relies heavily on rodent models and a limited number of Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) test guidelines, which only capture a fraction of potential toxic properties. Due to this limitation, various authorities, including the World Health Organization and the European Food Safety Authority have highlighted the need for the development of novel approaches without the use of animals for immunotoxicity testing of chemicals. In this paper, we present a concise overview of ongoing efforts dedicated to developing and standardizing methodologies for a comprehensive characterization of the immunotoxic effects of chemicals, which are performed under the EU-funded Partnership for the Assessment of Risk from Chemicals (PARC).
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Snapkow
- Department of Chemical Toxicology, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Nicola M. Smith
- Department of Chemical Toxicology, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Emma Arnesdotter
- Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST), Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Karsten Beekmann
- Wageningen Food Safety Research (WFSR), Part of Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | | | - Albert Braeuning
- Department of Food Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
| | - Emanuela Corsini
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences “Rodolfo Paoletti”, Université degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Loes P. M. Duivenvoorde
- Wageningen Food Safety Research (WFSR), Part of Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | | | - Nina Franko
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Valentina Galbiati
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences “Rodolfo Paoletti”, Université degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Johanna M. Gostner
- Biochemical Immunotoxicology Group, Institute of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Nathalie Grova
- Immune Endocrine Epigenetics Research Group, Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Arno C. Gutleb
- Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST), Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Rita Hargitai
- Unit of Radiation Medicine, Department of Radiobiology and Radiohygiene, National Centre for Public Health and Pharmacy, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Aafke W. F. Janssen
- Wageningen Food Safety Research (WFSR), Part of Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Solveig A. Krapf
- Section for Occupational Toxicology, National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Birgitte Lindeman
- Department of Chemical Toxicology, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Katalin Lumniczky
- Unit of Radiation Medicine, Department of Radiobiology and Radiohygiene, National Centre for Public Health and Pharmacy, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ambra Maddalon
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences “Rodolfo Paoletti”, Université degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Steen Mollerup
- Section for Occupational Toxicology, National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lucia Parráková
- Biochemical Immunotoxicology Group, Institute of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | - Raymond H. H. Pieters
- Innovative Testing in Life Sciences and Chemistry, Research Center for Healthy and Sustainable Living, University of Applied Sciences, Utrecht, Netherlands
- IRAS-Toxicology, Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Maria J. Silva
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Yvonne C. M. Staal
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Anne Straumfors
- Section for Occupational Toxicology, National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tünde Szatmári
- Unit of Radiation Medicine, Department of Radiobiology and Radiohygiene, National Centre for Public Health and Pharmacy, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Jonathan D. Turner
- Immune Endocrine Epigenetics Research Group, Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Rob J. Vandebriel
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | | | - Robert Barouki
- T3S, INSERM UMR-S 1124, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
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Pandics T, Major D, Fazekas-Pongor V, Szarvas Z, Peterfi A, Mukli P, Gulej R, Ungvari A, Fekete M, Tompa A, Tarantini S, Yabluchanskiy A, Conley S, Csiszar A, Tabak AG, Benyo Z, Adany R, Ungvari Z. Exposome and unhealthy aging: environmental drivers from air pollution to occupational exposures. GeroScience 2023; 45:3381-3408. [PMID: 37688657 PMCID: PMC10643494 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-023-00913-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The aging population worldwide is facing a significant increase in age-related non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular and brain pathologies. This comprehensive review paper delves into the impact of the exposome, which encompasses the totality of environmental exposures, on unhealthy aging. It explores how environmental factors contribute to the acceleration of aging processes, increase biological age, and facilitate the development and progression of a wide range of age-associated diseases. The impact of environmental factors on cognitive health and the development of chronic age-related diseases affecting the cardiovascular system and central nervous system is discussed, with a specific focus on Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, stroke, small vessel disease, and vascular cognitive impairment (VCI). Aging is a major risk factor for these diseases. Their pathogenesis involves cellular and molecular mechanisms of aging such as increased oxidative stress, impaired mitochondrial function, DNA damage, and inflammation and is influenced by environmental factors. Environmental toxicants, including ambient particulate matter, pesticides, heavy metals, and organic solvents, have been identified as significant contributors to cardiovascular and brain aging disorders. These toxicants can inflict both macro- and microvascular damage and many of them can also cross the blood-brain barrier, inducing neurotoxic effects, neuroinflammation, and neuronal dysfunction. In conclusion, environmental factors play a critical role in modulating cardiovascular and brain aging. A deeper understanding of how environmental toxicants exacerbate aging processes and contribute to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, VCI, and dementia is crucial for the development of preventive strategies and interventions to promote cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and brain health. By mitigating exposure to harmful environmental factors and promoting healthy aging, we can strive to reduce the burden of age-related cardiovascular and brain pathologies in the aging population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamas Pandics
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Public Health Laboratory, National Public Health Centre, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Public Health Siences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - David Major
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Vince Fazekas-Pongor
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsofia Szarvas
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment, Neurodegeneration and Healthy Brain Aging Program, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Anna Peterfi
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment, Neurodegeneration and Healthy Brain Aging Program, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Peter Mukli
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment, Neurodegeneration and Healthy Brain Aging Program, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Rafal Gulej
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment, Neurodegeneration and Healthy Brain Aging Program, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Anna Ungvari
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Monika Fekete
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Anna Tompa
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Stefano Tarantini
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment, Neurodegeneration and Healthy Brain Aging Program, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- International Training Program in Geroscience, Doctoral School of Basic and Translational Medicine/Department of Public Health, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Andriy Yabluchanskiy
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment, Neurodegeneration and Healthy Brain Aging Program, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- International Training Program in Geroscience, Doctoral School of Basic and Translational Medicine/Department of Public Health, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Shannon Conley
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Anna Csiszar
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment, Neurodegeneration and Healthy Brain Aging Program, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Adam G Tabak
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- UCL Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Internal Medicine and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltan Benyo
- Department of Translational Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Eötvös Loránd Research Network and Semmelweis University (ELKH-SE) Cerebrovascular and Neurocognitive Disorders Research Group, Budapest, H-1052, Hungary
| | - Roza Adany
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- ELKH-DE Public Health Research Group, Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032, Debrecen, Hungary
- Epidemiology and Surveillance Centre, Semmelweis University, 1085, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltan Ungvari
- Vascular Cognitive Impairment, Neurodegeneration and Healthy Brain Aging Program, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
- Oklahoma Center for Geroscience and Healthy Brain Aging, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
- International Training Program in Geroscience, Doctoral School of Basic and Translational Medicine/Department of Public Health, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
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Quan H, Jun H, Kim K, Lee SK, Heo Y, Seok SH, Na YR. Development of a transcriptome-based determination of innate immune suppressor (TDIS) assay as an in vitro test for immunotoxicity. Arch Toxicol 2023; 97:495-507. [PMID: 36416909 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-022-03406-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Immunotoxicity has been an important topic in toxicology since inadvertent exposures to xenobiotics were found to alter immune functions in humans. While rodent toxicity tests can reveal some levels of immunotoxicity, alternative methods must be developed to identify the detailed mechanisms. In this study, a method of in vitro prediction of innate immune suppression by substances was developed using a genomics approach. The primary selection of immune suppressors was based on their ability to downregulate MCP-1, CCL3, TNF, IL-8, and IL-12p40 expression levels in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated THP-1 cells. Among 11 substances classified as potent immune suppressors, six including dexamethasone, tacrolimus, tofacitinib, prednisolone, sodium lauryl sulfate, and benzoic acid were used to create a dataset by transcriptomics of chemical-treated THP-1 cells using bulk RNA sequencing. We selected genes that were significantly upregulated by suppressor treatment while filtering out genes also upregulated in LPS-treated THP-1 cells. We identified a 226-gene immunosuppressive gene set (ISG). Innate immune suppressor signature scores were calculated as the median expression of the ISG. In a validation dataset, the signature score predicted acyclovir, cyclosporine, and mercuric chloride as immune suppressors, while selecting genistein as a non-immune suppressor. Although more dataset integration is needed in the future, our results demonstrated the possibility and utility of a novel genomics-based approach, the transcriptome-based determination of innate immune suppressor (TDIS) assay, to evaluate innate immune suppression by different substances. This provides insight into the development of future alternative testing methods because it reflects a comprehensive genetic signature derived from multiple substances rather than one cytokine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailian Quan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Endemic Disease, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeji Jun
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kwangsoo Kim
- Transdisciplinary Department of Medicine and Advanced Technology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Kwang Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Hannam University, Daejeon, 34054, South Korea
| | - Yong Heo
- Deptartment of Occupational Health, College of Bio and Medical Science, Daegu Catholic University, Hayang-Ro 13-13, Gyeongsan-si, Gyeongbuk Province, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Hyeok Seok
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Endemic Disease, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Yi Rang Na
- Transdisciplinary Department of Medicine and Advanced Technology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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4
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Akuamoa F, Hoogenboom RLAP, Weide Y, van der Weg G, Rietjens IMCM, Bovee TFH. Presence and risks of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs in dietary plant supplements as elucidated by a combined DR CALUX ® bioassay and GC-HRMS based approach. Food Addit Contam Part A Chem Anal Control Expo Risk Assess 2022; 39:1576-1590. [PMID: 35904509 DOI: 10.1080/19440049.2022.2094473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Plant-based dietary supplements may contain undesirable contaminants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, dioxins and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (dl-PCBs) due to the sources of raw materials or processing methods used. The presence of these contaminants in a series of herbal supplements sold on the Ghanaian market for improving sexual performance was examined using the DR CALUX® bioassay in combination with GC-HRMS analysis. Overall, cell responses at 4 and 48 h exposure to extracts prepared without an acid-silica clean-up were relatively higher than the responses obtained from extracts prepared with an acid-silica clean-up. This indicated that the 40 supplements contained only low levels of stable aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonists like polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) and dl-PCBs, while some contained substantial amounts of less stable AhR-agonists. Ten supplements selected for confirmation with GC-HRMS analysis contained PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs at levels ranging from 0.01 to 0.19 pg toxic equivalent (TEQ)/g only, while the level of the sum of 4 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (Σ4PAHs) representing less stable AhR agonists, ranged from not detected (ND) to 25.5 ng/g. These concentrations were in line with the responses observed in the DR CALUX® bioassay. The concentration of PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs corresponded to estimated daily intakes (EDIs) ranging from 0.01 to 1.20 pg TEQ/day, or 0.001 to 0.12 pg TEQ/kg bw/week for a 70 kg bw consumer, which was below the established tolerable weekly intake (TWI) of 2 pg TEQ/kg bw/week, thus indicating low concern for consumers' health. Similarly, the EDIs based on the detected Σ4PAHs in supplements ranged from 7.2 to 111 ng/day, or 0.1 to 1.6 ng/kg bw/day, which corresponded to MOE values above 10,000, indicating a low health concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicia Akuamoa
- Wageningen Food Safety Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands.,Division of Toxicology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands.,Applied Radiation Biology Centre, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Yoran Weide
- Wageningen Food Safety Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Ivonne M C M Rietjens
- Division of Toxicology, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Toine F H Bovee
- Wageningen Food Safety Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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Arowolo O, Pobezinsky L, Suvorov A. Chemical Exposures Affect Innate Immune Response to SARS-CoV-2. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12474. [PMID: 34830356 PMCID: PMC8617908 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe outcomes of COVID-19 are associated with pathological response of the immune system to the SARS-CoV-2 infection. Emerging evidence suggests that an interaction may exist between COVID-19 pathogenesis and a broad range of xenobiotics, resulting in significant increases in death rates in highly exposed populations. Therefore, a better understanding of the molecular basis of the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 infection and chemical exposures may open opportunities for better preventive and therapeutic interventions. We attempted to gain mechanistic knowledge on the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 infection and chemical exposures using an in silico approach, where we identified genes and molecular pathways affected by both chemical exposures and SARS-CoV-2 in human immune cells (T-cells, B-cells, NK-cells, dendritic, and monocyte cells). Our findings demonstrate for the first time that overlapping molecular mechanisms affected by a broad range of chemical exposures and COVID-19 are linked to IFN type I/II signaling pathways and the process of antigen presentation. Based on our data, we also predict that exposures to various chemical compounds will predominantly impact the population of monocytes during the response against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olatunbosun Arowolo
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts, 686 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003, USA;
| | - Leonid Pobezinsky
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, University of Massachusetts, 661 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003, USA;
| | - Alexander Suvorov
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts, 686 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003, USA;
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McLoone P, Dyussupov O, Nurtlessov Z, Kenessariyev U, Kenessary D. The effect of exposure to crude oil on the immune system. Health implications for people living near oil exploration activities. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2021; 31:762-787. [PMID: 31709802 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2019.1689232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
People who reside near oil exploration activities may be exposed to toxins from gas flares or oil spills. The impact of such exposures on the human immune system has not been fully investigated. In this review, research investigating the effects of crude oil on the immune system is evaluated. The aim was to obtain a greater understanding of the possible immunological impact of living near oil exploration activities. In animals, the effect of exposure to crude oil on the immune system depends on the species, dose, exposure route, and type of oil. Important observations included; hematological changes resulting in anemia and alterations in white blood cell numbers, lymph node and splenic atrophy, genotoxicity in immune cells, modulation of cytokine gene expression and increased susceptibility to infectious diseases. In humans, there are reports that exposure to crude oil can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer and cause immunomodulation.Abbreviations: A1AT: alpha-1 antitrypsin; ACH50: hemolytic activity of the alternative pathway; AHR: aryl hydrocarbon receptor; BALF: bronchoalveolar lavage fluid; COPD: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; CYP: cytochrome P450; DNFB: 2, 4-dinitro-1-fluorobenzene; G-CSF: granulocyte-colony stimulating factor; IFN: interferon; IL: interleukin; 8-IP: 8-isoprostane; ISG15: interferon stimulated gene; LPO: lipid peroxidation; LTB4: leukotriene B4; M-CSF: macrophage-colony stimulating factor; MMC: melanomacrophage center; MPV: mean platelet volume; NK: natural killer; OSPM: oil sail particulate matter; PAH: polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon; PBMC: peripheral blood mononuclear cell; PCV: packed cell volume; RBC: red blood cell; ROS: reactive oxygen species; RR: relative risk; TH: T helper; TNF: tumour necrosis factor; UV: ultraviolet; VNNV: Viral Nervous Necrosis Virus; WBC: white blood cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline McLoone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Nazarbayev University School of Medicine, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Olzhas Dyussupov
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Nazarbayev University School of Medicine, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Zhaxybek Nurtlessov
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Nazarbayev University School of Medicine, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Ussen Kenessariyev
- Department of General Hygiene and Ecology, Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Dinara Kenessary
- Department of General Hygiene and Ecology, Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
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7
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Zafar M, H Zaidi ST, Husain SS, Bukhari NM. Risk Assessment of Ambient Air Pollutants and Health Impact around Fuel Stations in Urban Cities of KSA. Int J Prev Med 2021; 12:91. [PMID: 34584657 PMCID: PMC8428307 DOI: 10.4103/ijpvm.ijpvm_331_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In Saudi Arabia, fuel dispensing facilities commonly present around the residential places, educational institutions, and various health care facilities. Fuel pollutants such as benzene, toluene, and xylenes (BTX) and its alkyl derivatives are harmful to human health because of their toxic, mutagenic, or carcinogenic properties. The aim of this study was to determine the BTX concentration levels of common pollutants in and around fuel stations and their harmful health effects in the urban cites of KSA. Methods: Forty fuel dispensing facilities were randomly selected on the basis of three different areas: residential, traffic intersection, and petrol pump locations (refueling stations). Portable ambient analyzer was used for measuring BTX concentration. t-test was applied to determine the difference between these different areas. Results: All mean concentration values of pollutants such as BTX around residential, traffic intersection, and fuel stations are exceeding the limits of air quality standards values (P < 0.01). The mean levels of benzene are 10.3 and 11.07 ppm in Dammam and Khobar, respectively, and they exceed the reference level of 0.5 ppm. Hazard quotient was more than >1, which shows that carcinogenic probability has increased those who were living and working near fuel stations. Conclusions: The results found that the high concentration of pollutants (BTX) is in the environment around fuel stations. The environmental contamination associated with BTX in petrol fuel stations impulses the necessity of preventive programs to reduce the further air quality deterioration and reduce the harmful health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mubashir Zafar
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Hail, Hail, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Syed Tafazzul H Zaidi
- Department of Community Medicine, Sindh Medical College, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Syed Shajee Husain
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, University Malaysia Sabah, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Noreen M Bukhari
- Department of Community Medicine, Khawaja Muhammad Safdar Medical College, Sialkot, Pakistan
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8
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O'Dell CT, Boule LA, Robert J, Georas SN, Eliseeva S, Lawrence BP. Exposure to a mixture of 23 chemicals associated with unconventional oil and gas operations alters immune response to challenge in adult mice. J Immunotoxicol 2021; 18:105-117. [PMID: 34455897 DOI: 10.1080/1547691x.2021.1965677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of unconventional oil and gas (UOG) operations raises concerns regarding the potential for adverse health outcomes following exposure to water tainted by mixtures of UOG associated chemicals. The potential effects that exposure to complex chemical mixtures has on the immune system have yet to be fully evaluated. In this study, effects on the immune system of adult mice exposed to a mixture of 23 chemicals that have been associated with water near active UOG operations were investigated. Female and male mice were exposed to the mixture via their drinking water for at least 8 weeks. At the end of the exposure, cellularity of primary and secondary immune organs, as well as an immune system function, were assessed using three different models of disease, i.e. house dust mite (HDM)-induced allergic airway disease, influenza A virus infection, and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). The results indicated exposures resulted in different impacts on T-cell populations in each disease model. Furthermore, the consequences of exposure differed between female and male mice. Notably, exposure to the chemical mixture significantly increased EAE disease severity in females, but not in male, mice. These findings indicated that direct exposure to this mixture leads to multiple alterations in T-cell subsets and that these alterations differ between sexes. This suggested to us that direct exposure to UOG-associated chemicals may alter the adult immune system, leading to dysregulation in immune cellularity and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen T O'Dell
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Lisbeth A Boule
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Jacques Robert
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Steve N Georas
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Sophia Eliseeva
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - B Paige Lawrence
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
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9
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Salama KF, Omar EOM, Zafar M. Assessment of BTX Concentration around Fuel Station in Eastern Province Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Indian J Occup Environ Med 2021; 24:163-167. [PMID: 33746429 PMCID: PMC7962504 DOI: 10.4103/ijoem.ijoem_157_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: The aim of this study is to determine the benzene, toluene, and xylenes (BTX) concentration levels in and around fuel station and its expected health risks in the City of Dammam and Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia. Method: Forty fuel dispensing facilities were randomly selected on the basis of three different areas, residential, traffic intersection, and petrol pump locations (refueling stations). coconut shell charcoal cartridges were used for samples collection and portable Ambient Analyzer was used for measuring BTX (benzene, toluene, and xylenes) concentration. Results: Results show that the average concentration of benzene, toluene, and xylenes level around fuel stations was 10.30, 4.09, and 2.47 ppm, respectively. All means of concentration values of BTX around residential, traffic intersection, and fuel stations are exceeding the limits of air quality standards values (P < 0.01). The mean concentration of BTX around residential area, side street, and direct street was benzene 8, 12.2, and 11.5 ppm, toluene 2.5, 5.95, and 3.37 ppm, and xylenes 2, 2.13, and 2.7 ppm. Hazard Quotient (HQ) was more than >1 which showed that carcinogenic probability has increased those exposed to this toxic chemical. Conclusion: Ambient concentration of BTX was high compare to neighboring residential area and 100 m from the fuel station which can negatively affect on health of several residences. The Environmental contamination associated with BTX in petrol fuel stations impulses the necessity of preventive programs to reduce further air quality deterioration and reduce the expected health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled F Salama
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Public Health, Imam Abdul Rahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Eltigani O M Omar
- Department of Public Health, College of Public Health, Imam Abdul Rahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Mubashir Zafar
- Department of Public Health, College of Public Health, Imam Abdul Rahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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10
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Besson C, Moore A, Wu W, Vajdic CM, de Sanjose S, Camp NJ, Smedby KE, Shanafelt TD, Morton LM, Brewer JD, Zablotska L, Engels EA, Cerhan JR, Slager SL, Han J, Berndt SI. Common genetic polymorphisms contribute to the association between chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and non-melanoma skin cancer. Int J Epidemiol 2021; 50:1325-1334. [PMID: 33748835 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyab042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiological studies have demonstrated a positive association between chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) and non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). We hypothesized that shared genetic risk factors between CLL and NMSC could contribute to the association observed between these diseases. METHODS We examined the association between (i) established NMSC susceptibility loci and CLL risk in a meta-analysis including 3100 CLL cases and 7667 controls and (ii) established CLL loci and NMSC risk in a study of 4242 basal cell carcinoma (BCC) cases, 825 squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) cases and 12802 controls. Polygenic risk scores (PRS) for CLL, BCC and SCC were constructed using established loci. Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS Higher CLL-PRS was associated with increased BCC risk (OR4th-quartile-vs-1st-quartile = 1.13, 95% CI: 1.02-1.24, Ptrend = 0.009), even after removing the shared 6p25.3 locus. No association was observed with BCC-PRS and CLL risk (Ptrend = 0.68). These findings support a contributory role for CLL in BCC risk, but not for BCC in CLL risk. Increased CLL risk was observed with higher SCC-PRS (OR4th-quartile-vs-1st-quartile = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.08-1.38, Ptrend = 1.36 × 10-5), which was driven by shared genetic susceptibility at the 6p25.3 locus. CONCLUSION These findings highlight the role of pleiotropy regarding the pathogenesis of CLL and NMSC and shows that a single pleiotropic locus, 6p25.3, drives the observed association between genetic susceptibility to SCC and increased CLL risk. The study also provides evidence that genetic susceptibility for CLL increases BCC risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Besson
- Service d'hématologie et Oncologie, Centre Hospitalier de Versailles, Le Chesnay; Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, Équipe "Exposome et Hérédité", CESP, 94805, Villejuif, France
| | - Amy Moore
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Wenting Wu
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, USA
| | - Claire M Vajdic
- Centre for Big Data Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Nicola J Camp
- Department of Internal Medicine and Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Karin E Smedby
- Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tait D Shanafelt
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Lindsay M Morton
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jerry D Brewer
- Department of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Lydia Zablotska
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Eric A Engels
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - James R Cerhan
- Service d'hématologie et Oncologie, Centre Hospitalier de Versailles, Le Chesnay; Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, Équipe "Exposome et Hérédité", CESP, 94805, Villejuif, France
| | - Susan L Slager
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jiali Han
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sonja I Berndt
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
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11
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Schnatter AR, Rooseboom M, Kocabas NA, North CM, Dalzell A, Twisk J, Faulhammer F, Rushton E, Boogaard PJ, Ostapenkaite V, Williams SD. Derivation of an occupational exposure limit for benzene using epidemiological study quality assessment tools. Toxicol Lett 2020; 334:117-144. [PMID: 32497562 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2020.05.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
This paper derives an occupational exposure limit for benzene using quality assessed data. Seventy-seven genotoxicity and 36 haematotoxicity studies in workers were scored for study quality with an adapted tool based on that of Vlaanderen et al., 2008 (Environ Health. Perspect. 116 1700-5). These endpoints were selected as they are the most sensitive and relevant to the proposed mode of action (MOA) and protecting against these will protect against benzene carcinogenicity. Lowest and No- Adverse Effect Concentrations (LOAECs and NOAECs) were derived from the highest quality studies (i.e. those ranked in the top tertile or top half) and further assessed as being "more certain" or "less certain". Several sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess whether alternative "high quality" constructs affected conclusions. The lowest haematotoxicity LOAECs showed effects near 2 ppm (8 h TWA), and no effects at 0.59 ppm. For genotoxicity, studies also showed effects near 2 ppm and showed no effects at about 0.69 ppm. Several sensitivity analyses supported these observations. These data define a benzene LOAEC of 2 ppm (8 h TWA) and a NOAEC of 0.5 ppm (8 h TWA). Allowing for possible subclinical effects in bone marrow not apparent in studies of peripheral blood endpoints, an OEL of 0.25 ppm (8 h TWA) is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Colin M North
- ExxonMobil Biomedical Sciences, Inc, Annandale, NJ, USA
| | | | - Johannes Twisk
- Dow Chemical International Pvt. Ltd, Terneuzen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Erik Rushton
- Basell Service Company B.V., Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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12
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Schubauer-Berigan MK, Dahm MM, Toennis CA, Sammons DL, Eye T, Kodali V, Zeidler-Erdely PC, Erdely A. Association of occupational exposures with ex vivo functional immune response in workers handling carbon nanotubes and nanofibers. Nanotoxicology 2020; 14:404-419. [PMID: 32031476 PMCID: PMC7121920 DOI: 10.1080/17435390.2020.1717007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between carbon nanotube and nanofiber (CNT/F) exposure and ex vivo responses of whole blood challenged with secondary stimulants, adjusting for potential confounders, in a cross-sectional study of 102 workers. Multi-day exposure was measured by CNT/F structure count (SC) and elemental carbon (EC) air concentrations. Demographic, lifestyle and other occupational covariate data were obtained via questionnaire. Whole blood collected from each participant was incubated for 18 hours with and without two microbial stimulants (lipopolysaccharide/LPS and staphylococcal enterotoxin type B/SEB) using TruCulture technology to evaluate immune cell activity. Following incubation, supernatants were preserved and analyzed for protein concentrations. The stimulant:null response ratio for each individual protein was analyzed using multiple linear regression, followed by principal component (PC) analysis to determine whether patterns of protein response were related to CNT/F exposure. Adjusting for confounders, CNT/F metrics (most strongly, the SC-based) were significantly (p < 0.05) inversely associated with stimulant:null ratios of several individual biomarkers: GM-CSF, IFN-γ, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, IL-17, and IL-23. CNT/F metrics were significantly inversely associated with PC1 (a weighted mean of most biomarkers, explaining 25% of the variance in the protein ratios) and PC2 (a biomarker contrast, explaining 14%). Among other occupational exposures, only solvent exposure was significant (inversely related to PC2). CNT/F exposure metrics were uniquely related to stimulant responses in challenged whole blood, illustrating reduced responsiveness to a secondary stimulus. This approach, if replicated in other exposed populations, may present a relatively sensitive method to evaluate human response to CNT/F or other occupational exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary K. Schubauer-Berigan
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Division of Field Studies and Engineering, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Current address: International Agency for Research on Cancer, Evidence Synthesis and Classification Section; Lyon, France
| | - Matthew M. Dahm
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Division of Field Studies and Engineering, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | | | | | - Tracy Eye
- NIOSH Health Effects Laboratory Division, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Vamsi Kodali
- NIOSH Health Effects Laboratory Division, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | | | - Aaron Erdely
- NIOSH Health Effects Laboratory Division, Morgantown, WV, USA
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13
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Robert J, McGuire CC, Kim F, Nagel SC, Price SJ, Lawrence BP, De Jesús Andino F. Water Contaminants Associated With Unconventional Oil and Gas Extraction Cause Immunotoxicity to Amphibian Tadpoles. Toxicol Sci 2019; 166:39-50. [PMID: 30011011 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfy179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemicals associated with unconventional oil and gas (UOG) operations have been shown to contaminate surface and ground water with a variety of endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) inducing multiple developmental alteration in mice. However, little is known about the impacts of UOG-associated contaminants on amphibian health and resistance to an emerging ranavirus infectious disease caused by viruses in the genus Ranavirus, especially at the vulnerable tadpole stage. Here we used tadpoles of the amphibian Xenopus laevis and the ranavirus Frog virus 3 (FV3) as a model relevant to aquatic environment conservation research for investigating the immunotoxic effects of exposure to a mixture of 23 UOG-associated chemicals with EDC activity. Xenopus tadpoles were exposed to an equimass mixture of 23 UOG-associated chemicals (range from 0.1 to 10 µg/l) for 3 weeks prior to infection with FV3. Our data show that exposure to the UOG chemical mixture is toxic for tadpoles at ecological doses of 5 to 10 µg/l. Lower doses significantly altered homeostatic expression of myeloid lineage genes and compromised tadpole responses to FV3 through expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, and Type I IFN genes, correlating with an increase in viral load. Exposure to a subset of 6 UOG chemicals was still sufficient to perturb the antiviral gene expression response. These findings suggest that UOG-associated water pollutants at low but environmentally relevant doses have the potential to induce acute alterations of immune function and antiviral immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques Robert
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology.,Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - Connor C McGuire
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology.,Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - Fayth Kim
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology
| | - Susan C Nagel
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Missouri, Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212
| | - Stephen J Price
- UCL Genetics Institute, London WC1E 6BT, UK.,Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regents Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - B Paige Lawrence
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology.,Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
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14
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Xu H, Zhang X, Li H, Li C, Huo XJ, Hou LP, Gong Z. Immune response induced by major environmental pollutants through altering neutrophils in zebrafish larvae. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2018; 201:99-108. [PMID: 29902668 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2018.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Revised: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Environmental pollutants may cause adverse effects on the immune system of aquatic organisms. However, the cellular effects of pollutants on fish immune system are largely unknown. Here, we exploited the transgenic zebrafish Tg(lysC:DsRed2) larva as a preliminary screening system to evaluate the potential inflammatory effects of environmental pollutants. Tg(lysC:DsRED2) larvae aged 7-day-postfertilization (7 dpf) were treated with selected environmental chemicals for 24 h (24 h) and the number of neutrophils were quantified using both image analysis and fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS). We found that the numbers of neutrophils in the Tg(lysC:DsRED2) larvae were significantly increased by most of the organic chemicals tested, including E2 (17β-estradiol), BPA (Bisphenol-A), NDEA (N-nitrosodiethylamine), 4-NP (4-Nitrophenol) and Lindane (γ-hexachlorocyclohexane). Neutrophil numbers were also increased by all the metals tested (Na2HAsO4· 7H2O, Pb(NO3)2, HgCl2, CdCl2, CuSO4·5H2O, ZnSO4, and K2Cr2O7). The only exception was TCDD (2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin), which significantly reduced the number of neutrophils after exposure. Additionally, the transcription of genes (lyz, mpo, tnfα and il8) related to fish immune system were significantly modulated upon exposure to some of the selected chemicals such as E2, TCDD, Cu and Cd. This study revealed that representatives of major categories of environmental pollutants could cause an acute inflammatory response in zebrafish larvae as shown by alterations in the neutrophils, which may imply a common immunotoxicity mechanism for most environmental pollutants. This study has also demonstrated that Tg(lyz:DsRed2) transgenic zebrafish is an excellent tool for screening environmental chemicals with potential inflammatory effects through FACS-facilitated neutrophil counting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Xu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical & Subtropical Fishery Resource Application & Cultivation of Ministry of Agriculture, Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, 1 Xingyu Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou 510380, China; Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore; School of Life Science, Yunnan University, No.2 North Cuihu Road, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650091, China
| | - Hankun Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Caixia Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xiao-Jing Huo
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Li-Ping Hou
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Zhiyuan Gong
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
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15
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Boulé LA, Chapman TJ, Hillman SE, Kassotis CD, O’Dell C, Robert J, Georas SN, Nagel SC, Lawrence BP. Developmental Exposure to a Mixture of 23 Chemicals Associated With Unconventional Oil and Gas Operations Alters the Immune System of Mice. Toxicol Sci 2018; 163:639-654. [PMID: 29718478 PMCID: PMC5974794 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfy066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemicals used in unconventional oil and gas (UOG) operations have the potential to cause adverse biological effects, but this has not been thoroughly evaluated. A notable knowledge gap is their impact on development and function of the immune system. Herein, we report an investigation of whether developmental exposure to a mixture of chemicals associated with UOG operations affects the development and function of the immune system. We used a previously characterized mixture of 23 chemicals associated with UOG, and which was demonstrated to affect reproductive and developmental endpoints in mice. C57Bl/6 mice were maintained throughout pregnancy and during lactation on water containing two concentrations of this 23-chemical mixture, and the immune system of male and female adult offspring was assessed. We comprehensively examined the cellularity of primary and secondary immune organs, and used three different disease models to probe potential immune effects: house dust mite-induced allergic airway disease, influenza A virus infection, and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). In all three disease models, developmental exposure altered frequencies of certain T cell sub-populations in female, but not male, offspring. Additionally, in the EAE model disease onset occurred earlier and was more severe in females. Our findings indicate that developmental exposure to this mixture had persistent immunological effects that differed by sex, and exacerbated responses in an experimental model of autoimmune encephalitis. These observations suggest that developmental exposure to complex mixtures of water contaminants, such as those derived from UOG operations, could contribute to immune dysregulation and disease later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Timothy J Chapman
- Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14842
| | - Sara E Hillman
- Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14842
| | - Christopher D Kassotis
- Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14842
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212
| | | | - Jacques Robert
- Department of Environmental Medicine
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York
| | - Steve N Georas
- Department of Environmental Medicine
- Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14842
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York
| | - Susan C Nagel
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212
| | - B Paige Lawrence
- Department of Environmental Medicine
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York
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16
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Abstract
Immunotoxicology is the study of immune system dysfunction that can result from occupational, inadvertent, or therapeutic exposure to a variety of chemical or biologic agents that alter the immune system and affect human health. Immunotoxicology can manifest in a variety of ways, with one of the most prominent effects being immunosuppression. Immunosuppression can be defined as a reduced ability of the immune system to respond to a challenge from a level considered normal, regardless of whether clinical disease results. Although immunosuppression can lead to an increased incidence and severity of infectious and neoplastic disease, interpreting data from experimental immunotoxicology studies, or even epidemiologic studies, for quantitative risk assessment has been a persistent challenge. Decades of research has resulted in the development of specific assays and the identification of sensitive endpoints that measure effects on the immune response, from which many regulatory agencies have developed specific immunotoxicity testing guidelines. However, establishing a direct link between exposure and disease manifestations for immunosuppression in humans is an ongoing challenge due to inherent limitations of epidemiological studies to draw causal conclusions. Efforts have been made to examine the relationships between laboratory measures of immune response and disease resistance in experimental animal models and also in human studies. The identification of sensitive endpoints and the development of experimental assays to identify suspect immunotoxicants are a primary focus of the field of immunotoxicology. This chapter is organized around sections discussing the impact and scientific basis of immunotoxicity testing, predictive immunotoxicity testing strategies, examples of immunotoxicity testing, and key considerations and recent developments related to effective testing strategies for health risk reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey E Anderson
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, USA.
| | - Hillary L Shane
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
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17
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Ghosal D, Ghosh S, Dutta TK, Ahn Y. Current State of Knowledge in Microbial Degradation of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs): A Review. Front Microbiol 2016; 7:1369. [PMID: 27630626 PMCID: PMC5006600 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2016.01369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 249] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) include a group of organic priority pollutants of critical environmental and public health concern due to their toxic, genotoxic, mutagenic and/or carcinogenic properties and their ubiquitous occurrence as well as recalcitrance. The increased awareness of their various adverse effects on ecosystem and human health has led to a dramatic increase in research aimed toward removing PAHs from the environment. PAHs may undergo adsorption, volatilization, photolysis, and chemical oxidation, although transformation by microorganisms is the major neutralization process of PAH-contaminated sites in an ecologically accepted manner. Microbial degradation of PAHs depends on various environmental conditions, such as nutrients, number and kind of the microorganisms, nature as well as chemical property of the PAH being degraded. A wide variety of bacterial, fungal and algal species have the potential to degrade/transform PAHs, among which bacteria and fungi mediated degradation has been studied most extensively. In last few decades microbial community analysis, biochemical pathway for PAHs degradation, gene organization, enzyme system, genetic regulation for PAH degradation have been explored in great detail. Although, xenobiotic-degrading microorganisms have incredible potential to restore contaminated environments inexpensively yet effectively, but new advancements are required to make such microbes effective and more powerful in removing those compounds, which were once thought to be recalcitrant. Recent analytical chemistry and genetic engineering tools might help to improve the efficiency of degradation of PAHs by microorganisms, and minimize uncertainties of successful bioremediation. However, appropriate implementation of the potential of naturally occurring microorganisms for field bioremediation could be considerably enhanced by optimizing certain factors such as bioavailability, adsorption and mass transfer of PAHs. The main purpose of this review is to provide an overview of current knowledge of bacteria, halophilic archaea, fungi and algae mediated degradation/transformation of PAHs. In addition, factors affecting PAHs degradation in the environment, recent advancement in genetic, genomic, proteomic and metabolomic techniques are also highlighted with an aim to facilitate the development of a new insight into the bioremediation of PAH in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debajyoti Ghosal
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Department of Civil Engineering, Yeungnam UniversityGyeongsan, South Korea
| | - Shreya Ghosh
- Disasters Prevention Research Institute, Yeungnam UniversityGyeongsan, South Korea
| | - Tapan K. Dutta
- Department of Microbiology, Bose InstituteKolkata, India
| | - Youngho Ahn
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Department of Civil Engineering, Yeungnam UniversityGyeongsan, South Korea
- Disasters Prevention Research Institute, Yeungnam UniversityGyeongsan, South Korea
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18
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Giannakou C, Park MV, de Jong WH, van Loveren H, Vandebriel RJ, Geertsma RE. A comparison of immunotoxic effects of nanomedicinal products with regulatory immunotoxicity testing requirements. Int J Nanomedicine 2016; 11:2935-52. [PMID: 27382281 PMCID: PMC4922791 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s102385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Nanomaterials (NMs) are attractive for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications because of their unique physicochemical and biological properties. A major application area of NMs is drug delivery. Many nanomedicinal products (NMPs) currently on the market or in clinical trials are most often based on liposomal products or polymer conjugates. NMPs can be designed to target specific tissues, eg, tumors. In virtually all cases, NMPs will eventually reach the immune system. It has been shown that most NMs end up in organs of the mononuclear phagocytic system, notably liver and spleen. Adverse immune effects, including allergy, hypersensitivity, and immunosuppression, have been reported after NMP administration. Interactions of NMPs with the immune system may therefore constitute important side effects. Currently, no regulatory documents are specifically dedicated to evaluate the immunotoxicity of NMs or NMPs. Their immunotoxicity assessment is performed based on existing guidelines for conventional substances or medicinal products. Due to the unique properties of NMPs when compared with conventional medicinal products, it is uncertain whether the currently prescribed set of tests provides sufficient information for an adequate evaluation of potential immunotoxicity of NMPs. The aim of this study was therefore, to compare the current regulatory immunotoxicity testing requirements with the accumulating knowledge on immunotoxic effects of NMPs in order to identify potential gaps in the safety assessment. This comparison showed that immunotoxic effects, such as complement activation-related pseudoallergy, myelosuppression, inflammasome activation, and hypersensitivity, are not readily detected by using current testing guidelines. Immunotoxicity of NMPs would be more accurately evaluated by an expanded testing strategy that is equipped to stratify applicable testing for the various types of NMPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Giannakou
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven; Department of Toxicogenomics, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Margriet Vdz Park
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven
| | - Wim H de Jong
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven
| | - Henk van Loveren
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven; Department of Toxicogenomics, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Rob J Vandebriel
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven
| | - Robert E Geertsma
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven
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19
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Zeliger HI. Predicting disease onset in clinically healthy people. Interdiscip Toxicol 2016; 9:39-54. [PMID: 28652846 PMCID: PMC5458104 DOI: 10.1515/intox-2016-0006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2016] [Revised: 04/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Virtually all human disease is induced by oxidative stress. Oxidative stress, which is caused by toxic environmental exposure, the presence of disease, lifestyle choices, stress, chronic inflammation or combinations of these, is responsible for most disease. Oxidative stress from all sources is additive and it is the total oxidative stress from all sources that induces the onset of most disease. Oxidative stress leads to lipid peroxidation, which in turn produces Malondialdehyde. Serum malondialdehyde level is an additive parameter resulting from all sources of oxidative stress and, therefore, is a reliable indicator of total oxidative stress which can be used to predict the onset of disease in clinically asymptomatic individuals and to suggest the need for treatment that can prevent much human disease.
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Effects of low concentrations of benzene exposure on levels of platelet-associated antibodies and platelet parameters. J Occup Environ Med 2015; 56:e92-7. [PMID: 25285841 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000000288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the impact of exposure to low concentrations of benzene on the platelet-associated antibodies and platelet parameters. METHODS We carried out an analysis on 121 benzene-exposed workers and 110 healthy workers whose blood samples were collected and the levels of platelet-associated antibodies and platelet parameters were assessed. Benzene emissions were monitored over 5 years. RESULTS Large-platelet cell ratios (P-LCR), platelet distribution width (PDW), and mean platelet volume (MPV) were significantly higher in benzene-exposed participants than in control participants. In participants who smoke cigarettes or drank alcohol, P-LCR, PDW, and MPV were more significantly elevated in the benzene-exposed group than in nonsmokers and nondrinkers. Platelet-associated immunoglobulin (PAIg) levels in benzene-exposed participants were higher than those in the control group, and PAIgA and PAIgM levels correlated with cumulative benzene exposure. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to low concentrations of benzene can induce changes in PAIg levels and platelet parameters.
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Sapmaz HI, Sarsılmaz M, Gödekmerdan A, Ögetürk M, Taş U, Köse E. Effects of formaldehyde inhalation on humoral immunity and protective effect of Nigella sativa oil: An experimental study. Toxicol Ind Health 2015; 32:1564-9. [PMID: 25653037 DOI: 10.1177/0748233714566294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study was carried out to determine the effects of formaldehyde (FA) inhalation on the humoral immunity of rats and the protective effect of Nigella sativa (NS) oil. MATERIALS AND METHODS The rats (n = 33) were divided into five groups, with five animals in the control group (FA-free air) and seven in the other four groups. Group FA1 was exposed to FA (5 ppm), group FA + NS1 was treated with NS and exposed to FA (5 ppm), group FA2 was exposed to FA (10 ppm), and group FA + NS2 was treated with NS and exposed to FA (10 ppm). At the end of a 4-week study period, blood samples were collected. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to determine the levels of serum total immunoglobulin A (IgA), total immunoglobulin M (IgM), total immunoglobulin G (IgG), and complement 3 (C3). RESULTS FA inhalation significantly increased serum IgA, IgM, and C3 levels and decreased serum IgG levels compared with the control group. NS administration decreased serum IgA, IgM, and C3 levels, which were induced by FA inhalation. CONCLUSION FA inhalation significantly increased acute antibody responses and C3 levels in a dose-dependent manner compared with the control group. FA inhalation decreased the secondary immune response compared with the control group. Levels of acute antibody responses and complement following exposure to FA inhalation returned to normal following treatment with NS (immunoregulatory effect). However, NS did not affect the secondary immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilal Irmak Sapmaz
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Sarsılmaz
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Sifa University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Gödekmerdan
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Yildirim Beyazit University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Murat Ögetürk
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Firat University, Elazig, Turkey
| | - Ufuk Taş
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziosmanpaşa University, Tokat, Turkey
| | - Evren Köse
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
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D’Andrea MA, Reddy GK. Hematological and hepatic alterations in nonsmoking residents exposed to benzene following a flaring incident at the British petroleum plant in Texas City. Environ Health 2014; 13:115. [PMID: 25526767 PMCID: PMC4298119 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-13-115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2014] [Accepted: 11/05/2014] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Human exposure to benzene is associated with multiple adverse health effects with an increased risk of developing carcinogenesis. Benzene exposure is known to affect many critical organs including the hematological, hepatic, renal, lung, and cardiac functions. The purpose of this study is to examine the health effects of benzene exposure among nonsmoking subjects from a prolonged flaring incident that occurred at the British petroleum (BP) refinery in the Texas City, Texas. METHODS The study included nonsmoking subjects who had been exposed and unexposed to benzene. Using medical charts, clinical data including white blood cell (WBC) counts, platelet counts, hemoglobin, hematocrit, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate amino transferase (AST), and alanine amino transferase (ALT) in nonsmoking subjects exposed to benzene were reviewed and analyzed and compared with unexposed adults. RESULTS A total of 1422 nonsmoking subjects (benzene exposed, n=1093 and unexposed, n=329) were included. Benzene exposed subjects had significantly higher levels of WBC (×10(3) per μL) counts (7.7±2.2 versus 6.8±1.7, P=0.001) and platelet (×10(3) per μL) counts (288.8±59.0 versus 245.3±54.4, P=0.001) compared with the unexposed subjects. The mean serum creatinine (mg/dL) levels were also significantly increased in the benzene exposed group compared with the unexposed group (1.1±0.4 versus 0.8±0.2, P=0.001). Serum levels of ALP (IU/L) was significantly elevated in the benzene exposed subjects compared with the unexposed subjects (87.3±22.6 versus 69.6±16.5, P=0.001). Similarly, benzene exposed subjects had significantly higher levels of AST and ALT compared with those unexposed subjects. CONCLUSION Benzene exposure from the prolonged BP flaring incident caused significant alterations in hematological and liver markers indicating that these nonsmoking residents exposed to refinery chemicals may be at a higher risk of developing hepatic or blood related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A D’Andrea
- University Cancer and Diagnostic Centers, 12811 Beamer Road, Houston, 77089 TX USA
| | - G Kesava Reddy
- University Cancer and Diagnostic Centers, 12811 Beamer Road, Houston, 77089 TX USA
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Benchalgo N, Gagné F, Fournier M. Immunotoxic effects of an industrial waste incineration site on groundwater in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). J Environ Sci (China) 2014; 26:981-990. [PMID: 25079628 DOI: 10.1016/s1001-0742(13)60539-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2013] [Revised: 09/29/2013] [Accepted: 10/29/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The discharge of organic waste from the petrochemical industry into the Mercier lagoons caused major groundwater contamination. The objective of this study was to determine the immunotoxic potential of three groundwater wells at increasing distance from the incinerator dumping site (1.17, 2.74 and 5.40 km). Rainbow Trout were exposed to increasing concentrations of water from three groundwater wells for 14 days. Immunocompetence was characterized by phagocytosis, mitogen-stimulated proliferation of lymphocytes, cell cycle analysis and apoptosis. A significant increase in innate (phagocytosis) and specific immune response (B lymphocyte proliferation) was observed in trout exposed to water collected from the well at 2.74 km. However, phagocytosis activity was suppressed in groups at 1.17 and 5.40 km. The proportion of lymphocytes in S phase was significantly increased in groups at 2.74 and 5.40 km, while lymphocytes in G0/G1 phase were decreased in all three exposure groups. Additionally, dexamethasone (DEX)-induced apoptosis of lymphocytes was significantly reduced in the group at 2.74 km, which suggests decreased lymphocyte turnover. Furthermore, the ratio of DEX-induced apoptosis/apoptosis was lower in the groups at 2.74 and 5.40 km. In summary, our experiments have shown that exposure to the mixture of organic compounds present in Mercier groundwater modulates phagocytosis and cell proliferation, disrupts the cell cycle and reduces the ratio of DEX-induced apoptosis/apoptosis. It is concluded that groundwater collected in the vicinity of an incinerator containment field could impact immunocompetence in fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadjet Benchalgo
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, 531 des Prairies, Laval, Quebec H7V 1B7, Canada.
| | - François Gagné
- Emerging Methods, Aquatic Contaminant Research Division, Environment Canada, 105 Mc Gill St., Montréal, Quebec H2Y 2E7, Canada
| | - Michel Fournier
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, 531 des Prairies, Laval, Quebec H7V 1B7, Canada
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Laffon B, Aguilera F, Ríos-Vázquez J, García-Lestón J, Fuchs D, Valdiglesias V, Pásaro E. Endocrine and immunological parameters in individuals involved in Prestige spill cleanup tasks seven years after the exposure. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2013; 59:103-111. [PMID: 23792419 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2013.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2013] [Revised: 05/16/2013] [Accepted: 05/27/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
In November 2002 the oil tanker Prestige spilled 63,000tonnes of heavy oil off the northwest coast of Spain, impacting more than 1000km of coastline. A general concern led to a huge mobilization of human and technical resources, and more than 300,000 people participated in cleanup activities, which lasted up to 10months. Some endocrine and immunological alterations were reported in Prestige oil exposed subjects for several months. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate if these alterations are still present seven years after the exposure. Fifty-four individuals exposed for at least 2months were compared to 50 matched referents. Prolactin and cortisol plasma concentrations, percentages of lymphocyte subsets (CD3(+), CD4(+), CD8(+), CD19(+), and CD56(+)16(+)), plasma levels of circulating cytokines (interleukin (IL) 2, IL4, IL6, IL10, tumour necrosis factor α, and interferon γ), and serum concentrations of neopterin, tryptophan and kynurenine were determined in peripheral blood samples. Results showed significant differences in exposed individuals vs. referents only in cortisol (increase), kynurenine and %CD16(+)56(+) lymphocytes (both decrease). Time of exposure to the oil or using protective clothes did not influence the results, but effect of using protective mask was observed on neopterin, %CD8(+), CD4(+)/CD8(+) ratio and IL4. Surveillance of the exposed individuals for early detection of possible health problems related to the endocrine or immunological systems is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanca Laffon
- Toxicology Unit, Department of Psychobiology, University of A Coruña, Edificio de Servicios Centrales de Investigación, Campus Elviña s/n, 15071-A Coruña, Spain.
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De Coster S, van Leeuwen DM, Jennen DGJ, Koppen G, Den Hond E, Nelen V, Schoeters G, Baeyens W, van Delft JHM, Kleinjans JCS, van Larebeke N. Gender-specific transcriptomic response to environmental exposure in Flemish adults. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2013; 54:574-588. [PMID: 23653218 DOI: 10.1002/em.21774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2012] [Revised: 02/01/2013] [Accepted: 02/21/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Flanders, Belgium, is one of the most densely populated areas in Europe. The Flemish Environment and Health Survey (2002-2006) aimed at determining exposure to pollutants of neonates, adolescents, and older adults and to assess associated biological and health effects. This study investigated genome wide gene expression changes associated with a range of environmental pollutants, including cadmium, lead, PCBs, dioxin, hexachlorobenzene, p,p'-DDE, benzene, and PAHs. Gene expression levels were measured in peripheral blood cells of 20 adults with relatively high and 20 adults with relatively low combined internal exposure levels, all non-smokers aged 50-65. Pearson correlation was used to analyze associations between pollutants and gene expression levels, separately for both genders. Pollutant- and gender-specific correlation analysis results were obtained. For organochlorine pollutants, analysis within genders revealed that genes were predominantly regulated in opposite directions in males and females. Significantly modulated pathways were found to be associated with each of the exposure biomarkers measured. Pathways and/or genes related to estrogen and STAT5 signaling were correlated to organochlorine exposures in both genders. Our work demonstrates that gene expression in peripheral blood is influenced by environmental pollutants. In particular, gender-specific changes are associated with organochlorine pollutants, including gender-specific modulation of endocrine related pathways and genes. These pathways and genes have previously been linked to endocrine disruption related disorders, which in turn have been associated with organochlorine exposure. Based on our results, we recommend that males and females be considered separately when analyzing gene expression changes associated with exposures that may include chemicals with endocrine disrupting properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam De Coster
- Study Centre for Carcinogenesis and Primary Prevention of Cancer, Ghent University, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
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Shao J, Katika MR, Schmeits PCJ, Hendriksen PJM, van Loveren H, Peijnenburg AACM, Volger OL. Toxicogenomics-based identification of mechanisms for direct immunotoxicity. Toxicol Sci 2013; 135:328-46. [PMID: 23824090 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kft151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Compounds with direct immunotoxic properties, including metals, mycotoxins, agricultural pesticides, and industrial chemicals, form potential human health risks due to exposure through food, drinking water, and the environment. Insights into the mechanisms of action are currently lacking for the majority of these direct immunotoxicants. Therefore, the present work aimed to gain insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying direct immunotoxicity. To this end, we assessed in vitro the effects of 31 test compounds on the transcriptome of the human Jurkat T-cell line. These compounds included direct immunotoxicants, immunosuppressive drugs with different mode of actions, and nonimmunotoxic control chemicals. Pathway analysis of the microarray data allowed us to identify canonical pathways and Gene Ontology processes that were transcriptionally regulated in common by immunotoxicants (1) with structural similarities, such as tributyltin chloride and tributyltin oxide that activated the retinoic acid/X receptor signaling pathway and (2) without structural similarities, such as As2O3, dibutyltin chloride, diazinon, MeHg, ochratoxin A (OTA), S9-treated OTA, S9-treated cyclophosphamide, and S9-treated benzo[a]pyrene, which activated unfolded protein response, and FTY720, lindane, and propanil, which activated the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway. In addition, processes uniquely affected by individual immunotoxicants were identified, such as the induction of Notch receptor signaling and the downregulation of acute-phase response genes by OTA. These findings were validated by quantitative real-time PCR analysis of genes involved in these processes. Our study indicated that diverse modes of action are involved in direct immunotoxicity and that a set of pathways or genes, rather than one single gene, can be used to screen compounds for direct immunotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Shao
- * RIKILT-Institute of Food Safety, Wageningen University and Research Centre, 6700 AE Wageningen, The Netherlands
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27
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Spatari G, Saitta S, Giorgianni C, Cristani MT, Quattrocchi P, Abbate A, Carrieri M, Ferraro G, Saija A, Gangemi S. Interleukin-10 involvement in exposure to low dose of benzene. Toxicol Ind Health 2013; 31:351-4. [PMID: 23344822 DOI: 10.1177/0748233713475518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To establish if serum levels of interleukin-10 (IL-10) in subjects exposed to benzene are connected with age, working years, and employment age. METHODS We evaluated serum levels of IL-10 in 51 employees working in oil refinery (group A) and in 16 office workers who resided in the same area (group B). RESULTS There was no statistically significant difference between serum concentrations of IL-10 in groups A and B. There was a statistically significant dependent relationship in group A between age, working years, and serum concentration of IL-10. There was a statistically significant and positive dependent relationship in group A between serum concentration of IL-10 and employment age. CONCLUSIONS The role played by IL-10 in benzene immune suppression may be relevant and attention should be directed toward assessment of age, working years, and employment age in benzene-exposed populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Spatari
- Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Saitta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, School and Unit of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Concetto Giorgianni
- Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Cristani
- Department Farmaco-Biologico, School of Pharmacy, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Paolina Quattrocchi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, School and Unit of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Adriana Abbate
- Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Mariella Carrieri
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Giorgia Ferraro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Fellow unit of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Antonella Saija
- Department Farmaco-Biologico, School of Pharmacy, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Gangemi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, School and Unit of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy Institute of Biomedicine and Molecular Immunology, National Research Council, Palermo, Italy
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Anderson SE, Franko J, Anderson KL, Munson AE, Lukomska E, Meade BJ. Immunotoxicity and allergic potential induced by topical application of dimethyl carbonate (DMC) in a murine model. J Immunotoxicol 2013; 10:59-66. [PMID: 22953780 PMCID: PMC4652577 DOI: 10.3109/1547691x.2012.691124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Dimethyl carbonate (DMC) is an industrial chemical, used as a paint and adhesive solvent, with the potential for significant increases in production. Using select immune function assays, the purpose of these studies was to evaluate the immunotoxicity of DMC following dermal exposure using a murine model. Following a 28-day exposure, DMC produced a significant decrease in thymus weight at concentrations of 75% and greater. No effects on body weight, hematological parameters (erythrocytes, leukocytes, and their differentials), or immune cell phenotyping (B-cells, T-cells, and T-cell sub-sets) were identified. The IgM antibody response to sheep red blood cell (SRBC) was significantly reduced in the spleen but not the serum. DMC was not identified to be an irritant and evaluation of the sensitization potential, conducted using the local lymph node assay (LLNA) at concentrations ranging from 50-100%, did not identify increases in lymphocyte proliferation. These results demonstrate that dermal exposure to DMC induces immune suppression in a murine model and raise concern about potential human exposure and the need for occupational exposure regulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey E Anderson
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health-NIOSH, 1095 Willowdale Drive, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA.
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Costa S, García-Lestón J, Coelho M, Coelho P, Costa C, Silva S, Porto B, Laffon B, Teixeira JP. Cytogenetic and immunological effects associated with occupational formaldehyde exposure. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2013; 76:217-229. [PMID: 23514064 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2013.757212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Formaldehyde (FA) is a widely used industrial chemical for which exposure is associated with nasopharyngeal and sinonasal cancer. Based on sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity from human investigations, supporting studies on mechanisms underlying carcinogenesis, and experimental evidence in animals, FA status was recently revised and reclassified as a human carcinogen. The highest level of exposure to FA occurs in occupational settings. Although several studies reported FA ability to induce genotoxic responses in exposed workers, not all findings were conclusive. In addition, published studies on the immunological effects of FA indicate that this compound may be able to modulate immune responses, although data in exposed subjects are still preliminary. In this study a group of pathology anatomy workers exposed to FA was evaluated for cytogenetic and immunological parameters. A control group with similar sociodemographic characteristics and without known occupational exposure to FA was also included. Genotoxicity was evaluated by means of micronucleus (MN) test, sister chromatid exchanges (SCE), and T-cell receptor (TCR) mutation assay. Percentages of different lymphocyte subpopulations were selected as immunotoxic biomarkers. The mean level of FA environmental exposure was 0.36 ± 0.03 ppm. MN and SCE frequencies were significantly increased in the exposed group. A significant decrease of the percentage of B cells in the exposed group was also found. Data obtained in this study indicate that genotoxic and immunotoxic increased risk due to FA occupational exposure cannot be excluded. Implementation of effective control measures along with hazard prevention campaigns may be crucial to decrease the risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solange Costa
- National Institute of Health , Environmental Health Department, Porto, Portugal.
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Zhang X, Wallace AD, Du P, Kibbe WA, Jafari N, Xie H, Lin S, Baccarelli A, Soares MB, Hou L. DNA methylation alterations in response to pesticide exposure in vitro. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2012; 53:542-9. [PMID: 22847954 PMCID: PMC3753688 DOI: 10.1002/em.21718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2011] [Revised: 06/13/2012] [Accepted: 06/21/2012] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Although pesticides are subject to extensive carcinogenicity testing before regulatory approval, pesticide exposure has repeatedly been associated with various cancers. This suggests that pesticides may cause cancer via nonmutagenicity mechanisms. The present study provides evidence to support the hypothesis that pesticide-induced cancer may be mediated in part by epigenetic mechanisms. We examined whether exposure to seven commonly used pesticides (i.e., fonofos, parathion, terbufos, chlorpyrifos, diazinon, malathion, and phorate) induces DNA methylation alterations in vitro. We conducted genome-wide DNA methylation analyses on DNA samples obtained from the human hematopoietic K562 cell line exposed to ethanol (control) and several organophosphate pesticides (OPs) using the Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation27 BeadChip. Bayesian-adjusted t-tests were used to identify differentially methylated gene promoter CpG sites. In this report, we present our results on three pesticides (fonofos, parathion, and terbufos) that clustered together based on principle component analysis and hierarchical clustering. These three pesticides induced similar methylation changes in the promoter regions of 712 genes, while also exhibiting their own OP-specific methylation alterations. Functional analysis of methylation changes specific to each OP, or common to all three OPs, revealed that differential methylation was associated with numerous genes that are involved in carcinogenesis-related processes. Our results provide experimental evidence that pesticides may modify gene promoter DNA methylation levels, suggesting that epigenetic mechanisms may contribute to pesticide-induced carcinogenesis. Further studies in other cell types and human samples are required, as well as determining the impact of these methylation changes on gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Zhang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Andrew D. Wallace
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Pan Du
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Warren A. Kibbe
- Northwestern University Biomedical Informatics Center (NUBIC), Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Nadereh Jafari
- Center for Genetic Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Hehuang Xie
- Falk Brain Tumor Center, Cancer Biology and Epigenomics Program, Children’s Memorial Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Simon Lin
- Biomedical Informatics Research Center, Marshfield Clinic Research Foundation, Marshfield, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Andrea Baccarelli
- Exposure, Epidemiology and Risk Program, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Marcelo Bento Soares
- Falk Brain Tumor Center, Cancer Biology and Epigenomics Program, Children’s Memorial Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Lifang Hou
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- The Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- For reprints and all correspondence: Lifang Hou Department of Preventive Medicine Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University 680 North Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60611 Phone: (312) 503-4798; Fax: (312) 908-9588
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Shen C, Zhao CY, Liu F, Wang YD, Wang W. Acute liver failure associated with occupational exposure to tetrachloroethylene. J Korean Med Sci 2011; 26:138-42. [PMID: 21218043 PMCID: PMC3012839 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2011.26.1.138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2010] [Accepted: 09/08/2010] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Tetrachloroethylene is a chlorinated solvent that is primarily used in dry cleaning and degreasing operations. Although the hepatotoxicity caused by tetrachloroethylene has been well documented in literature, it is rarely considered as a cause of acute liver failure. We report a case of a 39-yr-old man who was admitted to our hospital for acute liver failure due to tetrachloroethylene exposure. Histological examination of the liver revealed massive hepatic necrosis, prominently, in zone 3 of the hepatic lobules. The patient underwent supportive treatment along with 3 sessions of plasmapheresis, and consequently, he presented a favorable outcome. Repeat liver biopsy performed 6 months after the patient's discharge showed architectural distortion with postnecrotic cirrhosis. Physicians should be aware of the possibility of acute liver failure induced by tetrachloroethylene. Early plasmapheresis can be effective for individuals with sufficient capacity for hepatocyte regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Shen
- Department of Infectious Disease, the Third Affiliated Hospital, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
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Mallick S, Chakraborty J, Dutta TK. Role of oxygenases in guiding diverse metabolic pathways in the bacterial degradation of low-molecular-weight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons: a review. Crit Rev Microbiol 2010; 37:64-90. [PMID: 20846026 DOI: 10.3109/1040841x.2010.512268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Widespread environmental pollution by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) poses an immense risk to the environment. Bacteria-mediated attenuation has a great potential for the restoration of PAH-contaminated environment in an ecologically accepted manner. Bacterial degradation of PAHs has been extensively studied and mining of biodiversity is ever expanding the biodegradative potentials with intelligent manipulation of catabolic genes and adaptive evolution to generate multiple catabolic pathways. The present review of bacterial degradation of low-molecular-weight (LMW) PAHs describes the current knowledge about the diverse metabolic pathways depicting novel metabolites, enzyme-substrate/metabolite relationships, the role of oxygenases and their distribution in phylogenetically diverse bacterial species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somnath Mallick
- Department of Chemistry, Saldiha College, Bankura, West Bengal, India
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Borska L, Andrys C, Krejsek J, Hamakova K, Kremlacek J, Palicka V, Ranna D, Fiala Z. Genotoxic and apoptotic effects of Goeckerman therapy for psoriasis. Int J Dermatol 2010; 49:289-94. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-4632.2009.04258.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Limón-Flores AY, Chacón-Salinas R, Ramos G, Ullrich SE. Mast cells mediate the immune suppression induced by dermal exposure to JP-8 jet fuel. Toxicol Sci 2009; 112:144-52. [PMID: 19726579 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfp181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Applying jet propulsion-8 (JP-8) jet fuel to the skin of mice induces immune suppression. Applying JP-8 to the skin of mice suppresses T-cell-mediated immune reactions including, contact hypersensitivity (CHS) delayed-type hypersensitivity and T-cell proliferation. Because dermal mast cells play an important immune regulatory role in vivo, we tested the hypothesis that mast cells mediate jet fuel-induced immune suppression. When we applied JP-8 to the skin of mast cell deficient mice CHS was not suppressed. Reconstituting mast cell deficient mice with wild-type bone marrow derived mast cells (mast cell "knock-in mice") restored JP-8-induced immune suppression. When, however, mast cells from prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2))-deficient mice were used, the ability of JP-8 to suppress CHS was not restored, indicating that mast cell-derived PGE(2) was activating immune suppression. Examining the density of mast cells in the skin and lymph nodes of JP-8-treated mice indicated that jet fuel treatment caused an initial increase in mast cell density in the skin, followed by increased numbers of mast cells in the subcutaneous space and then in draining lymph nodes. Applying JP-8 to the skin increased mast cell expression of CXCR4, and increased the expression of CXCL12 by draining lymph node cells. Because CXCL12 is a chemoattractant for CXCR4+ mast cells, we treated JP-8-treated mice with AMD3100, a CXCR4 antagonist. AMD3100 blocked the mobilization of mast cells to the draining lymph node and inhibited JP-8-induced immune suppression. Our findings demonstrate the importance of mast cells in mediating jet fuel-induced immune suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Y Limón-Flores
- Department of Immunology and The Center for Cancer Immunology Research, The University of Texas, M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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Cantiello M, Carletti M, Cannizzo FT, Nebbia C, Bellino C, Pié S, Oswald IP, Bollo E, Dacasto M. Effects of an illicit cocktail on serum immunoglobulins, lymphocyte proliferation and cytokine gene expression in the veal calf. Toxicology 2007; 242:39-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2007.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2007] [Revised: 09/03/2007] [Accepted: 09/04/2007] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Ramos G, Limon-Flores AY, Ullrich SE. Dermal exposure to jet fuel suppresses delayed-type hypersensitivity: a critical role for aromatic hydrocarbons. Toxicol Sci 2007; 100:415-22. [PMID: 17890764 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfm247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Dermal exposure to military (JP-8) and/or commercial (Jet-A) jet fuel suppresses cell-mediated immune reactions. Immune regulatory cytokines and biological modifiers, including platelet activating factor (PAF), prostaglandin E(2), and interleukin-10, have been implicated in the pathway of events leading to immune suppression. It is estimated that approximately 260 different hydrocarbons are found in jet fuel, and the exact identity of the active immunotoxic agent(s) is unknown. The recent availability of synthetic jet fuel (S-8), which is refined from natural gas, and is devoid of aromatic hydrocarbons, made it feasible to design experiments to address this problem. Here we tested the hypothesis that the aromatic hydrocarbons present in jet fuel are responsible for immune suppression. We report that applying S-8 to the skin of mice does not upregulate the expression of epidermal cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) nor does it induce immune suppression. Adding back a cocktail of seven of the most prevalent aromatic hydrocarbons found in jet fuel (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene, 1,2,4-trimethlybenzene, cyclohexylbenzene, and dimethylnaphthalene) to S-8 upregulated epidermal COX-2 expression and suppressed a delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) reaction. Injecting PAF receptor antagonists, or a selective cycloozygenase-2 inhibitor into mice treated with S-8 supplemented with the aromatic cocktail, blocked suppression of DTH, similar to data previously reported using JP-8. These findings identify the aromatic hydrocarbons found in jet fuel as the agents responsible for suppressing DTH, in part by the upregulation of COX-2, and the production of immune regulatory factors and cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerardo Ramos
- Department of Immunology and The Center for Cancer Immunology Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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