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Marinaro C, Marino A, Bianchi AR, Berman B, Trifuoggi M, Marano A, Palumbo G, Chianese T, Scudiero R, Rosati L, De Maio A, Lettieri G, Piscopo M. Molecular and toxicological mechanisms behind the effects of chromium (VI) on the male reproductive system of Mytilus galloprovincialis: First evidence for poly-ADP-ribosylation of protamine-like II. Chem Biol Interact 2024; 401:111186. [PMID: 39116916 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2024.111186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Studies on the molecular mechanisms of heavy metal toxicity in invertebrate reproduction are limited. Given that PARP-catalysed ADP-ribosylation is also involved in counteracting heavy metal toxicity and maintaining genomic integrity, and that PARylation is implicated in chromatin remodelling but its role in sperm chromatin remains to be elucidated, we investigated the effects of chromium(VI) at 1, 10 and 100 nM on the reproductive health of Mytilus galloprovincialis. The damage to the gonads was assessed by morphological analyses and the damage indices PARP and ɣH2A.X were measured. Changes in the binding of protamine-like (PL) to DNA and the possibility of poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation of PL proteins were also investigated. Gonadal chromium accumulation and morphological damage were found, especially when the mussels were exposed to the highest dose of chromium(VI). In addition, the maximum expression of gonadal ɣH2A.X and PARP were obtained at 100 and 10 nM Cr(VI), respectively. Interestingly, for the first time in all exposed conditions, poly(ADP)-ribosylation was detected on PL-II, which, together with PL-III and PL-IV, are the major nuclear basic proteins of Mytilus galloprovincialis sperm chromatin. Since PL-II is involved in the final high level of sperm chromatin compaction, this post-translational modification altered the binding of the PL protein to DNA, favouring the action of micrococcal nuclease on sperm chromatin. This study provides new insights into the effects of chromium(VI) on Mytilus galloprovincialis reproductive system and proposes a molecular mechanism hypothesis describing the toxic effects of this metal on PL-DNA binding, sperm chromatin and gonads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmela Marinaro
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Alberto Marino
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Rita Bianchi
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Bruno Berman
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Trifuoggi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 21,80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandra Marano
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 21,80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Palumbo
- Commodity Science Laboratory, Department of Economics, Management and Institutions, University of Naples Federico II, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Teresa Chianese
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosaria Scudiero
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Rosati
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126, Naples, Italy; CIRAM, Centro Interdipartimentale di Ricerca "Ambiente", University Federico II, Via Mezzocannone 16, 80134, Napoli, Italy
| | - Anna De Maio
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126, Naples, Italy.
| | - Gennaro Lettieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126, Naples, Italy.
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126, Naples, Italy.
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Yee-Duarte JA, Arellano-Martínez M, Roldán-Wong NT, Kidd KA, Ceballos-Vázquez BP. Reduction in reproductive activity from degeneration of testicular follicles in Megapitaria squalida (Mollusca: Bivalvia) exposed to metal pollution in the Gulf of California. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 205:116648. [PMID: 38917499 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Over a reproductive cycle, the prevalence and intensity of degeneration of testicular follicles in Megapitaria squalida collected from the mining port of Santa Rosalia (a highly metal-polluted area), and San Lucas (a less polluted site), Gulf of California, Mexico, were evaluated. At San Lucas, most individuals had a typical testicular structure, and degeneration of testicular follicles was present in 9.5 % of spawning organisms. In contrast, at Santa Rosalia, 68 % of males, mainly in the ripe stage, had testicular degeneration (72 % severe intensity, mostly in medium and large-sized). Degeneration was characterized by intense hemocyte infiltration, identified as dense masses with numerous melanized cells in the follicle lumen. In both sites, males with testicular follicles degeneration had a lower condition index compared to males without degeneration. Degeneration of testicular follicles before spawning compromises and decreases the reproductive activity of M. squalida males at Santa Rosalia, which may ultimately affect the population sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josué Alonso Yee-Duarte
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas. Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional, s/n Col. Playa Palo de Santa Rita. C.P. 23096, La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico; Departamento Académico de Ciencias Marinas y Costeras, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California Sur, Carretera al Sur KM 5.5, C.P. 23080, La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico
| | - Marcial Arellano-Martínez
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas. Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional, s/n Col. Playa Palo de Santa Rita. C.P. 23096, La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico
| | | | - Karen Ann Kidd
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Bertha Patricia Ceballos-Vázquez
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas. Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional, s/n Col. Playa Palo de Santa Rita. C.P. 23096, La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico.
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Ben Youssef-Dridi S, Magalhães L, Soares AMVM, Pereira E, Freitas R, Gargouri L. Trace elements assessment in Cerastoderma glaucum from port areas in the Tunisian Mediterranean coast: The influence of parasites on bioaccumulation. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 198:115831. [PMID: 38056287 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, the seasonal concentration of seven trace elements was investigated in sediment and the cockle Cerastoderma glaucum tissues from two port areas in the North-East and South of Tunisia comparing cockles non-parasitized (NP) and parasitized (P) with digenean parasites. Elements concentration in sediments analyzed in both sites revealed that Zinc (Zn), Chromium (Cr), and Lead (Pb) were the most abundant ones, while Cadmium (Cd) and Mercury (Hg) were less abundant. The bioaccumulation of trace metals and Arsenic (As) in the tissues of cockles seems to be modulated by both the infection state and the parasite species. The relationship between bioaccumulation of metals and As, trematode species and abiotic parameters showed that the availability of certain metals for uptake by P cockles of both sites was influenced by the salinity and temperature of the water. Our results corroborate the possibility of using digenean infecting bivalves in biomonitoring aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumaya Ben Youssef-Dridi
- Faculty of Sciences of Tunis, Laboratory of Diversity, Management and Conservation of Biological Systems, University of Tunis El Manar, LR18ES06 Tunis, Tunisia.
| | - Luisa Magalhães
- CESAM, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitario de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Amadeu M V M Soares
- CESAM, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitario de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Eduarda Pereira
- CESAM, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitario de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Rosa Freitas
- CESAM, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitario de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Lamia Gargouri
- Faculty of Sciences of Tunis, Laboratory of Diversity, Management and Conservation of Biological Systems, University of Tunis El Manar, LR18ES06 Tunis, Tunisia
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Marinaro C, Lettieri G, Chianese T, Bianchi AR, Zarrelli A, Palatucci D, Scudiero R, Rosati L, De Maio A, Piscopo M. Exploring the molecular and toxicological mechanism associated with interactions between heavy metals and the reproductive system of Mytilus galloprovincialis. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2024; 275:109778. [PMID: 37866452 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2023.109778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
A large number of heavy metals resulted toxic to the reproductive system, but invertebrate infertility has been poorly explored, and above all, there are limited molecular, cellular and toxicological studies. In the present work, we exposed Mytilus galloprovincialis to three individual metal chlorides (CuCl2 15 μM, CdCl2 1.5 μM, NiCl2 15 μM) and their mixture for 24 h, to evaluate the effects on the protamine-like proteins (PLs), sperm DNA and on their interaction in the formation of sperm chromatin. Under all exposure conditions, but particularly after exposure to the metals mix, relevant changes in the electrophoretic pattern, by AU-PAGE and SDS-PAGE, and in fluorescence spectroscopy measurements of PLs were shown. In addition, alterations in DNA binding of these proteins were observed by Electrophoretic Mobility Shift Assay (EMSA) and through their release from sperm nuclei. Moreover, there was evidence of increased accessibility of micrococcal nuclease to sperm chromatin, which was also confirmed by toluidine blue staining. Furthermore, morphological analyses indicated severe gonadal impairments which was also corroborated by increased PARP expression, by Western blotting, and sperm DNA fragmentation, by comet assay. Finally, we investigated the expression of stress genes, gst, hsp70 and mt10, in gonadal tissue. The latter investigations also showed that exposure to this metals mix was more harmful than exposure to the individual metals tested. The present results suggest that these metals and in particular their mixture could have a negative impact on the reproductive fitness of M. galloprovincialis. Based on these evidences, we propose a molecular mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmela Marinaro
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Gennaro Lettieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Teresa Chianese
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Rita Bianchi
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Armando Zarrelli
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Domenico Palatucci
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Rosaria Scudiero
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Rosati
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Anna De Maio
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy.
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Lettieri G, Marinaro C, Brogna C, Montano L, Lombardi M, Trotta A, Troisi J, Piscopo M. A Metabolomic Analysis to Assess the Responses of the Male Gonads of Mytilus galloprovincialis after Heavy Metal Exposure. Metabolites 2023; 13:1168. [PMID: 38132850 PMCID: PMC10744773 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13121168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, metabolomics has become a valuable new resource in environmental monitoring programs based on the use of bio-indicators such as Mytilus galloprovincialis. The reproductive system is extremely susceptible to the effects of environmental pollutants, and in a previous paper, we showed metabolomic alterations in mussel spermatozoa exposed to metal chlorides of copper, nickel, and cadmium, and the mixture with these metals. In order to obtain a better overview, in the present work, we evaluated the metabolic changes in the male gonad under the same experimental conditions used in the previous work, using a metabolomic approach based on GC-MS analysis. A total of 248 endogenous metabolites were identified in the male gonads of mussels. Statistical analyses of the data, including partial least squares discriminant analysis, enabled the identification of key metabolites through the use of variable importance in projection scores. Furthermore, a metabolite enrichment analysis revealed complex and significant interactions within different metabolic pathways and between different metabolites. Particularly significant were the results on pyruvate metabolism, glycolysis, and gluconeogenesis, and glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism, which highlighted the complex and interconnected nature of these biochemical processes in mussel gonads. Overall, these results add new information to the understanding of how certain pollutants may affect specific physiological functions of mussel gonads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Lettieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Carmela Marinaro
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Brogna
- Department of Research, Craniomed Group Facility S.r.l., 20091 Bresso, Italy
| | - Luigi Montano
- Andrology Unit and Service of LifeStyle Medicine in Uro-Andrology, Local Health Authority (ASL) Salerno, 84084 Salerno, Italy
| | - Martina Lombardi
- Theoreo S.r.l.—Spin-off Company, University of Salerno, 84084 Salerno, Italy
| | - Alessio Trotta
- Theoreo S.r.l.—Spin-off Company, University of Salerno, 84084 Salerno, Italy
| | - Jacopo Troisi
- Theoreo S.r.l.—Spin-off Company, University of Salerno, 84084 Salerno, Italy
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
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Cima F, Varello R. Immunotoxic effects of exposure to the antifouling copper(I) biocide on target and nontarget bivalve species: a comparative in vitro study between Mytilus galloprovincialis and Ruditapes philippinarum. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1230943. [PMID: 37654677 PMCID: PMC10466049 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1230943] [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: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Edible bivalves constitute an important bioresource from an economic point of view, and studies on their immune responses to environmental pollutants are crucial for both the preservation of biodiversity and economic reasons. The worldwide diffusion of copper(I)-based antifouling paints has increased copper leaching into coastal environments and its potential impact on both target and nontarget organisms. In this study, immunotoxicity assays were carried out with short-term (60 min) cultures of hemocytes from the bivalves Mytilus galloprovincialis-a mussel dominant in the macrofouling community-and Ruditapes philippinarum-a clam dominant in the soft-sediment community-exposed to CuCl to compare the toxic effects on their immune responses. The LC50 values were similar, 40 μM (3.94 mg L-1) for the mussel and 44 μM (4.33 mg L-1) for the clam. In both species, apoptosis occurred after exposure to 1 µM (98.9 μg L-1) CuCl, the concentration able to significantly increase the intracellular Ca2+ content. Biomarkers of cell morphology and motility revealed microfilament disruption, a significant decrease in yeast phagocytosis and lysosome hydrolase (β-glucuronidase) inhibition beginning from 0.5 µM (49.5 μg L-1) CuCl in both the mussel and clam. The same concentration of CuCl affected biomarkers of oxidative stress, as a significant decrease in reduced glutathione content in the cytoplasm and inhibition of mitochondrial cytochrome-c oxidase (COX) were detected in both species. Comparison of the biomarkers showed that clam is more sensitive than the mussel regarding alterations to the lysosomal membrane and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, which supports the potential harmful effects of antifouling biocides on the survival of nontarget pivotal species in the coastal community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Cima
- Laboratory of Biology of Ascidians, Department of Biology (DiBio), University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Lettieri G, Marinaro C, Notariale R, Perrone P, Lombardi M, Trotta A, Troisi J, Piscopo M. Impact of Heavy Metal Exposure on Mytilus galloprovincialis Spermatozoa: A Metabolomic Investigation. Metabolites 2023; 13:943. [PMID: 37623886 PMCID: PMC10456258 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13080943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolomics is a method that provides an overview of the physiological and cellular state of a specific organism or tissue. This method is particularly useful for studying the influence the environment can have on organisms, especially those used as bio-indicators, e.g., Mytilus galloprovincialis. Nevertheless, a scarcity of data on the complete metabolic baseline of mussel tissues still exists, but more importantly, the effect of mussel exposure to certain heavy metals on spermatozoa is unknown, also considering that, in recent years, the reproductive system has proved to be very sensitive to the effects of environmental pollutants. In order to fill this knowledge gap, the similarities and differences in the metabolic profile of spermatozoa of mussels exposed to metallic chlorides of copper, nickel, and cadmium, and to the mixture to these metals, were studied using a metabolomics approach based on GC-MS analysis, and their physiological role was discussed. A total of 237 endogenous metabolites were identified in the spermatozoa of these mussel. The data underwent preprocessing steps and were analyzed using statistical methods such as PLS-DA. The results showed effective class separation and identified key metabolites through the VIP scores. Heatmaps and cluster analysis further evaluated the metabolites. The metabolite-set enrichment analysis revealed complex interactions within metabolic pathways and metabolites, especially involving glucose and central carbon metabolism and oxidative stress metabolism. Overall, the results of this study are useful to better understand how some pollutants can affect the specific physiological functions of the spermatozoa of this mussel, as well as for further GC-MS-based metabolomic health and safety studies of marine bivalves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Lettieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Carmela Marinaro
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Rosaria Notariale
- Department of Biology and Evolution of Marine Organisms, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale 1, 80121 Naples, Italy
| | - Pasquale Perrone
- Department of Precision Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Luigi de Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Martina Lombardi
- Theoreo S.R.L.—Spin-off Company of the University of Salerno, 84098 Montecorvino Pugliano (SA), Italy
| | - Alessio Trotta
- Theoreo S.R.L.—Spin-off Company of the University of Salerno, 84098 Montecorvino Pugliano (SA), Italy
| | - Jacopo Troisi
- Theoreo S.R.L.—Spin-off Company of the University of Salerno, 84098 Montecorvino Pugliano (SA), Italy
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
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Lopes RGPS, Rego AP, Gomes SMDJ, Ramos T, Antonio ÍG, Coimbra MRM. Effects of salinity on pre- and post-fertilization developmental events in the clam Anomalocardia flexuosa (Linnaeus, 1767). Anim Reprod 2023; 20:e20230005. [PMID: 37293251 PMCID: PMC10247183 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2023-0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The knowledge about the effect of salinity on the physiological mechanism of bivalve reproduction is fundamental to improve production strategies in hatcheries. The present work evaluated the influence of different salinity concentrations (15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 g⋅L-1) on pre- and post-fertilization development processes in the clam, Anomalocardia flexuosa, oocytes obtained by stripping. Salinity directly interfered with the germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) rate and in the cellular stability of unfertilized oocytes. Salinity concentrations between 30 and 35 g⋅L-1 provided better percentages of stable GVBD within 120 min, and incubation of oocytes in the salinity range of 30-35 g⋅L-1 for a time interval of 80-120 min provided > 80% GVBD. In the post-fertilization analysis, salinity affected the rate of the extrusion of the first and second polar bodies (PB1 and PB2). The release of 50% of the PBs was faster at a salinity of 35 g⋅L-1, with an estimated time of 10 min for PB1 and 30 min for PB2. Thus, chromosome manipulation methodologies aiming triploids should be applied at 35 g⋅L-1 salinity, with application of post-fertilization shock before 10 min for PB1 retention or before 30 min for PB2 retention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolf Gabriel Prazeres Silva Lopes
- Departamento de Pesca e Aquicultura, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brasil
- Departamento de Engenharia de Pesca, Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, São Luís, MA, Brasil
| | - Ana Paula Rego
- Departamento de Engenharia de Pesca, Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, São Luís, MA, Brasil
| | | | - Thayane Ramos
- Departamento de Engenharia de Pesca, Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, São Luís, MA, Brasil
| | - Ícaro Gomes Antonio
- Departamento de Engenharia de Pesca, Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, São Luís, MA, Brasil
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Boudjema K, Moulai-Mostefa N, Badis A. Baseline levels of integrated biomarker response index (IBR) in Mytilus galloprovincialis (Lamarck, 1819) of BouIsmail bay for monitoring Algerian Bays (Mediterranean Sea). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 192:115022. [PMID: 37172344 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) technique was used to determine the relationship between the integrated biomarker response index (IBR) with the most important confounding factors (Temperature, pH, Salinity and Dissolved oxygen), in order to define: (1) the baseline assessment criteria (BAC), (2) the environmental assessment criteria (EAC) and (3) the BouIsmail Bay (BIB) -Taxonomy by using Mytilus galloprovincialis sampled from two references sites in BIB (W. Tipaza, Algeria) during one season. Therefore, our results show that, the temperature appeared as a major factor for the explanation of the model. The coefficients of determination and F values for IBR validated the efficiency of model. In addition, the use MLR, BAC and EAC values in BIB-Taxonomy can deference between unpolluted and polluted areas in BouIsmail Bay in particular and Algerian Bays in general. This approach is therefore a valuable tool that could be used for monitoring the coastal sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamel Boudjema
- National Centre for Research and Development of Fisheries and Aquaculture (NCRDFA), 42004 Bousmail, W. Tipaza, Algeria.
| | - Nadji Moulai-Mostefa
- Laboratory of Materials and Environment (LME), University of Medea, Ain D'Heb, 26001, Medea, Algeria
| | - Abdelmalek Badis
- Laboratory of Natural Substances Chemistry and BioMolecules (LNSC-BioM), University of Blida 1, 09000 Blida, Algeria
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Baettig CG, Zirngibl M, Smith KF, Lear G, Tremblay LA. Comparison between droplet digital PCR and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR methods to measure ecotoxicology biomarkers. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 190:114829. [PMID: 36958116 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) is currently the gold-standard technique for detecting and quantifying messenger RNA. However, without proper validation, the method may produce artefactual and non-reproducible cycle threshold values generating poor-quality data. The newer droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) method allows for the absolute quantification of targeted nucleic acids providing more sensitive and accurate measurements without requiring external standards. This study compared these two PCR-based methods to measure the expression of well-documented genes used in ecotoxicology studies. We exposed Mediterranean mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) to copper and analyzed gene expression in gills and digestive glands using RT-qPCR and ddPCR assays. A step-by-step methodology to optimize and compare the two technologies is described. After ten-fold serial complementary DNA dilution, both RT-qPCR and ddPCR exhibited comparable linearity and efficiency and produced statistically similar results. We conclude that ddPCR is a suitable method to assess gene expression in an ecotoxicological context. However, RT-qPCR has a shorter processing time and remains more cost-effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille G Baettig
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Cawthron Institute, Nelson, New Zealand.
| | | | - Kirsty F Smith
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Cawthron Institute, Nelson, New Zealand
| | - Gavin Lear
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Louis A Tremblay
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Cawthron Institute, Nelson, New Zealand
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Lowes HM, Eliason EJ, Snihur KN, Alessi DS, Blewett TA. Copper toxicity does not affect low tide emersion tolerance of Mytilus galloprovincialis. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 189:114750. [PMID: 36857994 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Intertidal mussels are well adapted to withstand emersion from water during low tide, but they may be intermittently exposed to waterborne toxicants such as copper, which targets physiological processes including metabolism, ammonia excretion, and osmoregulation. To determine if copper exposure damages intertidal organisms' ability to tolerate tidal emersion, Mediterranean mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) were exposed to copper for 96 h followed by 6 h of emersion. Oxygen uptake increased after copper exposure which suggests that copper accumulation caused moderate stress in the mussels, but ammonia excretion and anaerobic metabolism were unaffected by mixed copper and emersion exposures. Shell composition analyses indicate that cycles of copper exposure and tidal emersion may affect bivalve shell growth, but copper deposition into shells may decrease the metal's overall toxicity. Results suggest that copper does not damage M. galloprovincialis's tolerance to tidal emersion, and insight is provided into the mussel's ability to overcome mixed stressor exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M Lowes
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton T6G 2R3, AB, Canada
| | - Erika J Eliason
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara 93106, CA, USA
| | - Katherine N Snihur
- Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton T6G 2R3, AB, Canada
| | - Daniel S Alessi
- Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton T6G 2R3, AB, Canada
| | - Tamzin A Blewett
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton T6G 2R3, AB, Canada.
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12
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A Molecular Mechanism to Explain the Nickel-Induced Changes in Protamine-like Proteins and Their DNA Binding Affecting Sperm Chromatin in Mytilus galloprovincialis: An In Vitro Study. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13030520. [PMID: 36979455 PMCID: PMC10046793 DOI: 10.3390/biom13030520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Nickel is associated with reproductive toxicity, but little is known about the molecular mechanisms of nickel-induced effects on sperm chromatin and protamine-like proteins (PLs). In the present work, we analyzed PLs from Mytilus galloprovincialis by urea-acetic acid polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (AU-PAGE) and SDS-PAGE and assessed their binding to DNA by Electrophoretic Mobility Shift Assay (EMSA) after exposing mussels to 5, 15, and 35 µM NiCl2 for 24 h. In addition, a time course of digestion with MNase and release of PLs from sperm nuclei by the NaCl gradient was performed. For all exposure doses, in AU-PAGE, there was an additional migrating band between PL-III and PL-IV, corresponding to a fraction of PLs in the form of peptides detected by SDS-PAGE. Alterations in DNA binding of PLs were observed by EMSA after exposure to 5 and 15 µM NiCl2, while, at all NiCl2 doses, increased accessibility of MNase to sperm chromatin was found. The latter was particularly relevant at 15 µM NiCl2, a dose at which increased release of PLII and PLIII from sperm nuclei and the highest value of nickel accumulated in the gonads were also found. Finally, at all exposure doses, there was also an increase in PARP expression, but especially at 5 µM NiCl2. A possible molecular mechanism for the toxic reproductive effects of nickel in Mytilus galloprovincialis is discussed.
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13
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Copper and Nickel Induce Changes in the Lipid and Fatty Acid Composition of Anodonta cygnea. J Xenobiot 2023; 13:132-147. [PMID: 36976160 PMCID: PMC10058111 DOI: 10.3390/jox13010011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The effect of copper and nickel ions on the lipid composition of freshwater mussels Anodonta cygnea was investigated using an aquarium experiment. The contents of the main lipid classes were determined using thin layer chromatography and spectrophotometry, and the fatty acid composition was analysed using gas–liquid chromatography. The results indicated that copper and nickel had different effects on the mussels’ lipid composition, with copper producing less effect on the composition of lipids and fatty acids than nickel. On the first experiment day, excessive copper content in the organism caused oxidative stress and modifications in membrane lipids, which returned to their initial level by the end of the experiment. Nickel accumulated predominantly in gills; however, significant modifications in lipids and fatty acids were seen also in the digestive gland from the first day of the experiment. This indicated the activation of nickel-induced lipid peroxidation processes. Moreover, this study revealed a dose-dependent effect of nickel on lipid composition, which was likely related to the development of compensatory biochemical mechanisms in response to nickel-induced oxidative stress. A comparative study of the lipid composition alteration in mussels in response to copper and nickel action revealed the consequences of the toxic impact of metal ions and the defensive mechanisms that organisms employ to detoxify and remove xenobiotics.
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14
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Perrone P, Lettieri G, Marinaro C, Longo V, Capone S, Forleo A, Pappalardo S, Montano L, Piscopo M. Molecular Alterations and Severe Abnormalities in Spermatozoa of Young Men Living in the "Valley of Sacco River" (Latium, Italy): A Preliminary Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191711023. [PMID: 36078739 PMCID: PMC9518305 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191711023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The Valley of Sacco River (VSR) (Latium, Italy) is an area with large-scale industrial chemical production that has led over time to significant contamination of soil and groundwater with various industrial pollutants, such as organic pesticides, dioxins, organic solvents, heavy metals, and particularly, volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In the present study, we investigated the potential impact of VOCs on the spermatozoa of healthy young males living in the VSR, given the prevalent presence of several VOCs in the semen of these individuals. To accomplish this, spermiograms were conducted followed by molecular analyses to assess the content of sperm nuclear basic proteins (SNBPs) in addition to the protamine-histone ratio and DNA binding of these proteins. We found drastic alterations in the spermatozoa of these young males living in the VSR. Alterations were seen in sperm morphology, sperm motility, sperm count, and protamine/histone ratios, and included significant reductions in SNBP-DNA binding capacity. Our results provide preliminary indications of a possible correlation between the observed alterations and the presence of specific VOCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasquale Perrone
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
- Department of Precision Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Gennaro Lettieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Carmela Marinaro
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Valentina Longo
- Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems (IMM), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - Simonetta Capone
- Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems (IMM), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - Angiola Forleo
- Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems (IMM), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | | | - Luigi Montano
- Andrology Unit and Service of Lifestyle Medicine in UroAndrology, Local Health Authority (ASL) Salerno, Coordination Unit of the Network for Environmental and Reproductive Health (EcoFoodFertility Project),
Oliveto Citra Hospital, 84020 Oliveto Citra, Italy
- PhD Program in Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
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15
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Moriello C, Costabile M, Spinelli M, Amoresano A, Palumbo G, Febbraio F, Piscopo M. Altered Expression of Protamine-like and Their DNA Binding Induced by Cr(VI): A Possible Risk to Spermatogenesis? Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12050700. [PMID: 35625627 PMCID: PMC9138527 DOI: 10.3390/biom12050700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Chromium (VI) is the most dangerous oxidation state among the stable forms of chromium. In this work, we evaluated the effect of exposing Mytilus galloprovincialis for 24 h to 1, 10, and 100 nM chromium (VI) on the properties of Protamine-like (PLs) and their gene levels in the gonads. Specifically, we analyzed, by AU-PAGE and SDS-PAGE, PLs extracted from unexposed and exposed mussels. In addition, via EMSA, we evaluated the ability of PLs to bind DNA and also verified their potential to protect DNA from oxidative damage. Finally, we assessed possible alterations in gonadal expression of mt10, hsp70, and genes encoding for PLs-II/PL-IV and PL-III. We found that for all experimental approaches the most relevant alterations occurred after exposure to 1 nM Cr(VI). In particular, a comigration of PL-II with PL-III was observed by SDS-PAGE; and a reduced ability of PLs to bind and protect DNA from oxidative damage was recorded. This dose of chromium (VI) exposure was also the one that produced the greatest alterations in the expression of both mt10 and PL-II/PL-IV encoding genes. All of these changes suggest that this dose of chromium (VI) exposure could affect the reproductive health of Mytilus galloprovincialis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Moriello
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (C.M.); (M.C.)
| | - Martina Costabile
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (C.M.); (M.C.)
| | - Michele Spinelli
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.S.); (A.A.)
| | - Angela Amoresano
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.S.); (A.A.)
| | - Giancarlo Palumbo
- Commodity Science Laboratory, Department of Economics, Management and Institutions, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy;
| | - Ferdinando Febbraio
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, National Research Council (CNR), Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy; (C.M.); (M.C.)
- Correspondence:
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16
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Hobbs WO, McCall M, Lanksbury J, Seiders K, Sandvik P, Jones M, Chuhran H, Momohara D, Norton D. A baseline of copper associated with antifouling paint in marinas within a large fjord estuary. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 178:113547. [PMID: 35339866 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Marinas have been shown to contribute elevated concentrations of copper (Cu) to marine waters. The Cu can come primarily from antifouling paints which are designed to discourage biofouling of boat hulls. Legislation in Washington State, USA is being developed to limit or regulate the amount and rate of diffusion of Cu from antifouling paints. This study provides baseline data for Cu in five marinas of different configuration and size within Puget Sound, a large fjord estuary. Samples were collected over a year from multiple environmental media. We find strong evidence that Cu accumulates inside marinas to higher concentrations than outside marinas. Marinas that are more enclosed accumulated higher concentrations of Cu than more open marinas. Using a power analysis, we assessed the adequacy of the baseline dataset to measure progress as a result of future legislation towards the reduction of Cu to Puget Sound from marinas.
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Affiliation(s)
- William O Hobbs
- Washington State Department of Ecology, PO Box 47600, Olympia, WA 98502, United States.
| | - Melissa McCall
- Washington State Department of Ecology, PO Box 47600, Olympia, WA 98502, United States
| | - Jennifer Lanksbury
- Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, 600 Capital Way N, Olympia, WA 98501, United States
| | - Keith Seiders
- Washington State Department of Ecology, PO Box 47600, Olympia, WA 98502, United States
| | - Patti Sandvik
- Washington State Department of Ecology, PO Box 47600, Olympia, WA 98502, United States
| | - Meredith Jones
- Manchester Environmental Laboratory, Washington State Department of Ecology, 7411 Beach Drive East, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States
| | - Heidi Chuhran
- Manchester Environmental Laboratory, Washington State Department of Ecology, 7411 Beach Drive East, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States
| | - Dean Momohara
- Manchester Environmental Laboratory, Washington State Department of Ecology, 7411 Beach Drive East, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States
| | - Dale Norton
- Washington State Department of Ecology, PO Box 47600, Olympia, WA 98502, United States
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17
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Di Fabrizio C, Giorgione V, Khalil A, Murdoch CE. Antioxidants in Pregnancy: Do We Really Need More Trials? Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:812. [PMID: 35624676 PMCID: PMC9137466 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11050812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Human pregnancy can be affected by numerous pathologies, from those which are mild and reversible to others which are life-threatening. Among these, gestational diabetes mellitus and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy with subsequent consequences stand out. Health problems experienced by women during pregnancy and postpartum are associated with significant costs to health systems worldwide and contribute largely to maternal mortality and morbidity. Major risk factors for mothers include obesity, advanced maternal age, cardiovascular dysfunction, and endothelial damage; in these scenarios, oxidative stress plays a major role. Markers of oxidative stress can be measured in patients with preeclampsia, foetal growth restriction, and gestational diabetes mellitus, even before their clinical onset. In consequence, antioxidant supplements have been proposed as a possible therapy; however, results derived from large scale randomised clinical trials have been disappointing as no positive effects were demonstrated. This review focuses on the latest evidence on oxidative stress in pregnancy complications, their early diagnosis, and possible therapies to prevent or treat these pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Di Fabrizio
- Vascular Biology Research Center, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George’s University of London, London SW17 0QT, UK; (C.D.F.); (V.G.); (A.K.)
- Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK
| | - Veronica Giorgione
- Vascular Biology Research Center, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George’s University of London, London SW17 0QT, UK; (C.D.F.); (V.G.); (A.K.)
| | - Asma Khalil
- Vascular Biology Research Center, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George’s University of London, London SW17 0QT, UK; (C.D.F.); (V.G.); (A.K.)
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London SW17 0QT, UK
| | - Colin E. Murdoch
- Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK
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18
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Montano L, Maugeri A, Volpe MG, Micali S, Mirone V, Mantovani A, Navarra M, Piscopo M. Mediterranean Diet as a Shield against Male Infertility and Cancer Risk Induced by Environmental Pollutants: A Focus on Flavonoids. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031568. [PMID: 35163492 PMCID: PMC8836239 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of environmental factors in influencing health status is well documented. Heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls, dioxins, pesticides, ultrafine particles, produced by human activities put a strain on the body’s entire defense system. Therefore, together with public health measures, evidence-based individual resilience measures are necessary to mitigate cancer risk under environmental stress and to prevent reproductive dysfunction and non-communicable diseases; this is especially relevant for workers occupationally exposed to pollutants and/or populations residing in highly polluted areas. The Mediterranean diet is characterized by a high intake of fruits and vegetables rich in flavonoids, that can promote the elimination of pollutants in tissues and fluids and/or mitigate their effects through different mechanisms. In this review, we collected evidence from pre-clinical and clinical studies showing that the impairment of male fertility and gonadal development, as well as cancers of reproductive system, due to the exposure of organic and inorganic pollutants, may be counteracted by flavonoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Montano
- Andrology Unit and Service of Lifestyle Medicine in UroAndrology, Local Health Authority (ASL), 84124 Salerno, Italy;
- PhD Program in Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Maugeri
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy;
| | - Maria Grazia Volpe
- Institute of Food Sciences, National Research Council, CNR, 83100 Avellino, Italy;
| | - Salvatore Micali
- Urology Department, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy;
| | - Vincenzo Mirone
- Department of Neurosciences, Science of Reproduction and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy;
| | - Alberto Mantovani
- Department of Food, Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary public health, Italian National Health Institute, 00161 Roma, Italy;
| | - Michele Navarra
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Napoli, Italy;
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19
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Lettieri G, Carusone N, Notariale R, Prisco M, Ambrosino A, Perrella S, Manna C, Piscopo M. Morphological, Gene, and Hormonal Changes in Gonads and In-Creased Micrococcal Nuclease Accessibility of Sperm Chromatin Induced by Mercury. Biomolecules 2022; 12:87. [PMID: 35053235 PMCID: PMC8773939 DOI: 10.3390/biom12010087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Mercury is one of the most dangerous environmental pollutants. In this work, we analysed the effects of exposure of Mytilus galloprovincialis to 1, 10 and 100 pM HgCl2 for 24 h on the gonadal morphology and on the expression level of three stress genes: mt10, hsp70 and πgst. In this tissue we also evaluated the level of steroidogenic enzymes 3β-HSD and 17β-HSD and the expression of PL protein genes. Finally, we determined difference in sperm chromatin accessibility to micrococcal nuclease. We found alterations in gonadal morphology especially after exposure to 10 and 100 pM HgCl2 and hypo-expression of the three stress genes, particularly for hsp70. Furthermore, decreased labelling with both 3β-HSD and 17β-HSD antibodies was observed following exposure to 1 and 10 pM HgCl2 and complete absence at 100 pM HgCl2 exposure. Gonads of mussels exposed to all HgCl2 doses showed decreased expression of PL protein genes especially for PLIII. Finally, micrococcal nuclease digestions showed that all doses of HgCl2 exposure resulted in increased sperm chromatin accessibility to this enzyme, indicative of improper sperm chromatin structure. All of these changes provide preliminary data of the potential toxicity of mercury on the reproductive health of this mussel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Lettieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (N.C.); (M.P.); (A.A.); (S.P.)
| | - Nadia Carusone
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (N.C.); (M.P.); (A.A.); (S.P.)
| | - Rosaria Notariale
- Department of Precision Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Luigi de Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy; (R.N.); (C.M.)
| | - Marina Prisco
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (N.C.); (M.P.); (A.A.); (S.P.)
| | - Alessia Ambrosino
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (N.C.); (M.P.); (A.A.); (S.P.)
| | - Shana Perrella
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (N.C.); (M.P.); (A.A.); (S.P.)
| | - Caterina Manna
- Department of Precision Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Luigi de Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy; (R.N.); (C.M.)
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (N.C.); (M.P.); (A.A.); (S.P.)
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20
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Could Kallikrein-Related Serine Peptidase 3 Be an Early Biomarker of Environmental Exposure in Young Women? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18168833. [PMID: 34444582 PMCID: PMC8392638 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18168833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Bisphenols and phthalates affect androgen receptor-mediated signaling that directly regulates Kallikrein-Related serine Peptidase 3 (KLK3) secretion, indicating that environmental factors may play a role in KLK3 secretion. With the aim of obtaining preliminary data on whether KLK3 could serve as an early marker of environmental pollution effects, in 61 and 58 healthy women living in a high environmental impact (HEI) and low environmental impact (LEI) area, respectively, serum KLK3 levels at different phases of menstrual cycle were measured. KLK3 values resulted in always being higher in the HEI group with respect to the LEI group. These differences were particularly relevant in the ovulatory phase (cycle day 12°–13°) of the menstrual cycle. The differences in KLK3 values during the three phases of the menstrual cycle were significant in the LEI group differently from the HEI group. In addition, higher progesterone levels were observed in the LEI group with respect to the HEI group in the luteal phase, indicating an opposite trend of KLK3 and progesterone in this phase of the menstrual cycle. Although changes in KLK3 could also depend on other factors, these preliminary data could be an early indication of an expanding study of the role of biomarkers in assessing early environmental effects for female reproductive health.
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21
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Sang Y, Liu J, Li X, Zhou G, Zhang Y, Gao L, Zhao Y, Zhou X. The effect of SiNPs on DNA methylation of genome in mouse spermatocytes. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:43684-43697. [PMID: 33840017 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-13459-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs), which are the main inorganic components of atmospheric particulate matter, have been proved to have certain male reproductive toxicity in previous studies. Spermatogenesis involves complex epigenetic regulation, but it is still unclear if SiNPs exposure will interfere with the DNA methylation patterns in mouse spermatocytes. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of SiNPs on DNA methylation in the mouse spermatocyte GC-2spd(ts). GC-2 cells were treated with 0 and 20 μg/mL SiNPs for 24 h. MeDIP-seq assay was then performed to analyze the differentially methylated genes related to spermatogenesis. The results showed that SiNPs induced extensive methylation changes in the genome of GC-2 cells, and 24a total of 428 hyper-methylated genes and 398 hypo-methylated genes were identified. Gene Ontology and pathway analysis showed that differential DNA methylation induced by SiNPs was probably involved with abnormal transcription and translation, mitochondrial damage, and cell apoptosis. Results from qRT-PCR verification showed that the expression of spermatogenesis-related genes Akap1, Crem, Spz1, and Tex11 were dysregulated by SiNPs exposure, which was consistent with the MeDIP-seq assay. In general, this study suggested that SiNPs caused genome-wide DNA methylation changes in GC-2 cells, providing valuable reference for the future epigenetic studies in SiNPs-induced male reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujian Sang
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Jianhui Liu
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Xiangyang Li
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Guiqing Zhou
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Leqiang Gao
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Yanzhi Zhao
- Yanjing Medical College, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China.
| | - Xianqing Zhou
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China.
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China.
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22
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Montano L, Donato F, Bianco PM, Lettieri G, Guglielmino A, Motta O, Bonapace IM, Piscopo M. Semen quality as a potential susceptibility indicator to SARS-CoV-2 insults in polluted areas. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:37031-37040. [PMID: 34053043 PMCID: PMC8164491 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-14579-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The epidemic of the new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has impacted worldwide with its infectious spread and mortality rate. Thousands of articles have been published to tackle this crisis and many of these have indicated that high air pollution levels may be a contributing factor to high outbreak rates of COVID-19. Atmospheric pollutants, indeed, producing oxidative stress, inflammation, immuno-unbalance, and systemic coagulation, may be a possible significant co-factor of further damage, rendering the body prone to infections by a variety of pathogens, including viruses. Spermatozoa are extremely responsive to prooxidative effects produced by environmental pollutants and may serve as a powerful alert that signals the extent that environmental pressure, in a specific area, is doing damage to humans. In order to improve our current knowledge on this topic, this review article summarizes the relevant current observations emphasizing the weight that environmental pollution has on the sensitivity of a given population to several diseases and how semen quality, may be a potential indicator of sensitivity for virus insults (including SARS-CoV-2) in high polluted areas, and help to predict the risk for harmful effects of the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic. In addition, this review focused on the potential routes of virus transmission that may represent a population health risk and also identified the areas of critical importance that require urgent research to assess and manage the COVID-19 outbreak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Montano
- Andrology Unit, EcoFoodFertility Project, Coordination Unit, Local Health Authority (ASL) Salerno, Oliveto Citra, Via M. Clemente, 84020 Oliveto Citra, SA Italy
| | - Francesco Donato
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties Radiological Sciences and Public Health, Unit of Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Pietro Massimiliano Bianco
- ISPRA, Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via Vitaliano Brancati 60, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Gennaro Lettieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 21, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | | | - Oriana Motta
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Ian Marc Bonapace
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria (VA), Varese, Italy
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 21, 80126 Napoli, Italy
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Montano L, Donato F, Bianco PM, Lettieri G, Guglielmino A, Motta O, Bonapace IM, Piscopo M. Air Pollution and COVID-19: A Possible Dangerous Synergy for Male Fertility. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18136846. [PMID: 34202243 PMCID: PMC8297116 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18136846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Several studies indicate that semen quality has strongly declined in the last decades worldwide. Air pollution represents a significant co-factor with the COVID-19 impact and has negative effects on the male reproductive system, through pro-oxidant, inflammatory and immune-dysregulating mechanisms. It has recently been reported that chronic exposure to PM2.5 causes overexpression of the alveolar ACE2 receptor, the entry route of SARS-CoV-2 into the organism shared by the lungs and testis where expression is highest in the body. In the testis, the ACE2/Ang-(1-7)/MasR pathway plays an important role in the regulation of spermatogenesis and an indirect mechanism of testicular damage could be due to the blockade of the ACE2 receptor by SARS-CoV-2. This prevents the conversion of specific angiotensins, and their excess causes inflammation with the overproduction of cytokines. PM2.5-induced overexpression of the alveolar ACE2 receptor, in turn, could increase local viral load in patients exposed to pollutants, producing ACE2 receptor depletion and compromising host defenses. By presenting an overall view of epidemiological data and molecular mechanisms, this manuscript aims to interpret the possible synergistic effects of both air pollution and COVID-19 on male reproductive function, warning that the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in the fertile years may represent a significant threat to global reproductive health. All of this should be of great concern, especially for men of the age of maximum reproductive capacity, and an important topic of debate for policy makers. Altered environmental conditions, together with the direct and indirect short- and long-term effects of viral infection could cause a worsening of semen quality with important consequences for male fertility, especially in those areas with higher environmental impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Montano
- Andrology Unit and Service of Lifestyle Medicine in UroAndrology, Local Health Authority (ASL) Salerno, Coordination Unit of the Network for Environmental and Reproductive Health (EcoFoodFertility Project), “Oliveto Citra Hospital”, 84020 Oliveto Citra, Italy
- PhD Program in Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (L.M.); (I.M.B.); (M.P.); Tel.: +39-0331-339452 (I.M.B.); +39-0816-79081 (M.P.)
| | - Francesco Donato
- Unit of Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Public Health, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, 21100 Brescia, Italy;
| | - Pietro Massimiliano Bianco
- ISPRA, Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via Vitaliano Brancati 60, 00144 Roma, Italy;
| | - Gennaro Lettieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Napoli, Italy;
| | | | - Oriana Motta
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, 84081 Salerno, Italy;
| | - Ian Marc Bonapace
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
- Correspondence: (L.M.); (I.M.B.); (M.P.); Tel.: +39-0331-339452 (I.M.B.); +39-0816-79081 (M.P.)
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Napoli, Italy;
- Correspondence: (L.M.); (I.M.B.); (M.P.); Tel.: +39-0331-339452 (I.M.B.); +39-0816-79081 (M.P.)
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Notariale R, Infantino R, Palazzo E, Manna C. Erythrocytes as a Model for Heavy Metal-Related Vascular Dysfunction: The Protective Effect of Dietary Components. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6604. [PMID: 34203038 PMCID: PMC8235350 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Heavy metals are toxic environmental pollutants associated with severe ecological and human health risks. Among them is mercury (Hg), widespread in air, soil, and water, due to its peculiar geo-biochemical cycle. The clinical consequences of Hg exposure include neurotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Furthermore, increased risk for cardiovascular diseases is also reported due to a direct effect on cardiovascular tissues, including endothelial cells, recently identified as important targets for the harmful action of heavy metals. In this review, we will discuss the rationale for the potential use of erythrocytes as a surrogate model to study Hg-related toxicity on the cardiovascular system. The toxic effects of Hg on erythrocytes have been amply investigated in the last few years. Among the observed alterations, phosphatidylserine exposure has been proposed as an underlying mechanism responsible for Hg-induced increased proatherogenic and prothrombotic activity of these cells. Furthermore, following Hg-exposure, a decrease in NOS activity has also been reported, with consequent lowering of NO bioavailability, thus impairing endothelial function. An additional mechanism that may induce a decrease in NO availability is the generation of an oxidative microenvironment. Finally, considering that chronic Hg exposure mainly occurs through contaminated foods, the protective effect of dietary components is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Notariale
- Department of Precision Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy;
| | - Rosmara Infantino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (R.I.); (E.P.)
| | - Enza Palazzo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (R.I.); (E.P.)
| | - Caterina Manna
- Department of Precision Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy;
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Lettieri G, Notariale R, Carusone N, Giarra A, Trifuoggi M, Manna C, Piscopo M. New Insights into Alterations in PL Proteins Affecting Their Binding to DNA after Exposure of Mytilus galloprovincialis to Mercury-A Possible Risk to Sperm Chromatin Structure? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:5893. [PMID: 34072703 PMCID: PMC8198333 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a highly toxic and widespread pollutant. We previously reported that the exposure of Mytilus galloprovincialis for 24 h to doses of HgCl2 similar to those found in seawater (range 1-100 pM) produced alterations in the properties of protamine-like (PL) proteins that rendered them unable to bind and protect DNA from oxidative damage. In the present work, to deepen our studies, we analyzed PL proteins by turbidimetry and fluorescence spectroscopy and performed salt-induced release analyses of these proteins from sperm nuclei after the exposure of mussels to HgCl2 at the same doses. Turbidity assays indicated that mercury, at these doses, induced PL protein aggregates, whereas fluorescence spectroscopy measurements showed mercury-induced conformational changes. Indeed, the mobility of the PLII band changed in sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, particularly after exposure to 10-pM HgCl2, confirming the mercury-induced structural rearrangement. Finally, exposure to HgCl2 at all doses produced alterations in PL-DNA binding, detectable by DNA absorption spectra after the PL protein addition and by a decreased release of PLII and PLIII from the sperm nuclei. In conclusion, in this paper, we reported Hg-induced PL protein alterations that could adversely affect mussel reproductive activity, providing an insight into the molecular mechanism of Hg-related infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Lettieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (N.C.)
| | - Rosaria Notariale
- Department of Precision Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via Luigi de Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy; (R.N.); (C.M.)
| | - Nadia Carusone
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (N.C.)
| | - Antonella Giarra
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.G.); (M.T.)
| | - Marco Trifuoggi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.G.); (M.T.)
| | - Caterina Manna
- Department of Precision Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via Luigi de Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy; (R.N.); (C.M.)
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (N.C.)
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Kapranov SV, Karavantseva NV, Bobko NI, Ryabushko VI, Kapranova LL. Sex- and sexual maturation-related aspects of the element accumulation in soft tissues of the bivalve Mytilus galloprovincialis Lam. collected off coasts of Sevastopol (southwestern Crimea, Black Sea). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:21553-21576. [PMID: 33411300 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-12024-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Mussels are widely used to monitor trace element pollution, but the role of their sex and sexual maturation in the element accumulation was not comprehensively studied and the number of elements under consideration never exceeded three dozen. In this work, concentrations of 67 elements in different tissues of females and males of the Mediterranean mussel are determined. Statistically significant differences are obtained in the element composition of analogous tissues of mussel males and females and in gonads of the same sex at different sexual maturation stages. The significantly higher concentrations of some elements found in gonads of females (Mn, Zn, As) and males (P) at most of the sexual maturation stages suggest essentiality of these elements in the reproduction. Elements exhibit several accumulation patterns in gonads during the ripening, with the most general one being the accumulation after spawning. Indications of a new phenomenon of circulation of most elements in gonads over the reproductive cycle are obtained, with the element concentrations decreasing at the first two stages and increasing at the posterior stages. Principal component analysis shows that the differences in the element accumulation are mainly due to the element uptake pathways and sexual differentiation. The most important identified factors determining the decrease in concentrations of tissue elements are their redistribution over mussel's body, biomass dilution, sequestration, and release with gametes. Five detected non-overlapping clusters of the non-normalized element concentrations in the pooled mussel tissues are associated with macroelements, two groups of trace elements, and two groups of ultratrace elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergey V Kapranov
- A.O. Kovalevsky Institute of Biology of the Southern Seas, Russian Academy of Sciences, Nakhimov ave. 2, Sevastopol, 299011, Russian Federation.
| | - Nadezhda V Karavantseva
- A.O. Kovalevsky Institute of Biology of the Southern Seas, Russian Academy of Sciences, Nakhimov ave. 2, Sevastopol, 299011, Russian Federation
| | - Nikolay I Bobko
- A.O. Kovalevsky Institute of Biology of the Southern Seas, Russian Academy of Sciences, Nakhimov ave. 2, Sevastopol, 299011, Russian Federation
| | - Vitaliy I Ryabushko
- A.O. Kovalevsky Institute of Biology of the Southern Seas, Russian Academy of Sciences, Nakhimov ave. 2, Sevastopol, 299011, Russian Federation
| | - Larisa L Kapranova
- A.O. Kovalevsky Institute of Biology of the Southern Seas, Russian Academy of Sciences, Nakhimov ave. 2, Sevastopol, 299011, Russian Federation
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Lettieri G, Notariale R, Ambrosino A, Di Bonito A, Giarra A, Trifuoggi M, Manna C, Piscopo M. Spermatozoa Transcriptional Response and Alterations in PL Proteins Properties after Exposure of Mytilus galloprovincialis to Mercury. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041618. [PMID: 33562685 PMCID: PMC7915165 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is an environmental pollutant that impacts human and ecosystem health. In our previous works, we reported alterations in the properties of Mytilus galloprovincialis protamine-like (PL) proteins after 24 h of exposure to subtoxic doses of toxic metals such as copper and cadmium. The present work aims to assess the effects of 24 h of exposure to 1, 10, and 100 pM HgCl2 on spermatozoa and PL proteins of Mytilus galloprovincialis. Inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry indicated accumulation of this metal in the gonads of exposed mussels. Further, RT-qPCR analyses showed altered expression levels of spermatozoa mt10 and hsp70 genes. In Mytilus galloprovincialis, PL proteins represent the major basic component of sperm chromatin. These proteins, following exposure of mussels to HgCl2, appeared, by SDS-PAGE, partly as aggregates and showed a decreased DNA-binding capacity that rendered them unable to prevent DNA damage, in the presence of CuCl2 and H2O2. These results demonstrate that even these doses of HgCl2 exposure could affect the properties of PL proteins and result in adverse effects on the reproductive system of this organism. These analyses could be useful in developing rapid and efficient chromatin-based genotoxicity assays for pollution biomonitoring programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Lettieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (A.A.); (A.D.B.)
| | - Rosaria Notariale
- Department of Precision Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Luigi de Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy; (R.N.); (C.M.)
| | - Alessia Ambrosino
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (A.A.); (A.D.B.)
| | - Alfredo Di Bonito
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (A.A.); (A.D.B.)
| | - Antonella Giarra
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.G.); (M.T.)
| | - Marco Trifuoggi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.G.); (M.T.)
| | - Caterina Manna
- Department of Precision Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Luigi de Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy; (R.N.); (C.M.)
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (A.A.); (A.D.B.)
- Correspondence:
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Yee-Duarte JA, Racotta IS, Camacho-Mondragón MA, Roldán-Wong NT, Carreño-León DP, Shumilin E, Kidd KA, Arellano-Martínez M. Contrasting reproductive health of female clams Megapitaria squalida from two nearby metal-polluted sites in the Gulf of California: Potential effects of copper, lead, and cobalt. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 160:111583. [PMID: 32861942 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
We studied the effects of chronic exposure to metals on energy reserves and reproduction in the clam Megapitaria squalida in two nearby populations exposed to different levels of pollution from mining operations in the Gulf of California, Mexico. Female M. squalida from San Lucas beach had good reproductive health status, whereas Santa Rosalia specimens consistently showed low energy reserves, massive oocyte resorption throughout the year, high frequencies of undifferentiated individuals, low proportions of ripe and spawning organisms, smaller and fewer oocytes per follicle, and significantly lower follicular areas. Ovarian levels of Co, Cu, Pb, Mn, and Zn were consistently higher in clams from Santa Rosalia. The poor reproductive health of clams inhabiting this site may be attributed to their long-term exposure to high Co, Cu, and Pb concentrations, as these have been shown to cause toxicity and reproductive impairments in other marine organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josué Alonso Yee-Duarte
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional s/n Col. Playa Palo de Santa Rita, C.P. 23096 La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico; Instituto Nacional de Pesca y Acuacultura, Centro Regional de Investigación Acuícola y Pesquera La Paz, Carretera a Pichilingue Km 1, Col. Esterito, C.P. 23020 La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico.
| | - Ilie S Racotta
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, Mar Bermejo 195, Playa Palo de Santa Rita, C.P. 23000 La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico.
| | - Marian Alejandra Camacho-Mondragón
- Instituto Nacional de Pesca y Acuacultura, Centro Regional de Investigación Acuícola y Pesquera La Paz, Carretera a Pichilingue Km 1, Col. Esterito, C.P. 23020 La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico.
| | - Nefertiti Taydé Roldán-Wong
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional s/n Col. Playa Palo de Santa Rita, C.P. 23096 La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico.
| | - Diana Patricia Carreño-León
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, Mar Bermejo 195, Playa Palo de Santa Rita, C.P. 23000 La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico.
| | - Evgueni Shumilin
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional s/n Col. Playa Palo de Santa Rita, C.P. 23096 La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico.
| | - Karen A Kidd
- Department of Biological Sciences and Canadian Rivers Institute, University of New Brunswick, Saint John, NB E2L 4L5, Canada.
| | - Marcial Arellano-Martínez
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional s/n Col. Playa Palo de Santa Rita, C.P. 23096 La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico.
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Liu T, Liu Y, Fang K, Zhang X, Wang X. Transcriptome, bioaccumulation and toxicity analyses of earthworms (Eisenia fetida) affected by trifloxystrobin and trifloxystrobin acid. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 265:115100. [PMID: 32806466 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
As a promising fungicide, the potential environmental risk of trifloxystrobin (TFS) and its main metabolism trifloxystrobin acid (TFSA) in soil environment should be given special attention. The present study investigated the potential risks of TFS and TFSA in soil environment to earthworms (Eisenia fetida) through measuring several biomarkers. Residual analysis showed that TFSA was more stable than TFS in artificial soil with half-lives ranging from 138.6 to 231.0 d and 20.4-24.7 d, respectively. Additionally, the accumulation of TFS in earthworms increased in the beginning and then decreased from day 14, while that of TFSA continuously increased. At concentrations of 4.0 mg/kg and 10.0 mg/kg, the weight and lysosomal membrane stability of earthworms were reduced; however, the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) content in earthworms were enhanced by TFS and TFSA. Moreover, the growth inhibition effect and the oxidative damage level induced by TFSA to earthworms were higher than those induced by TFS. The transcriptome analysis date indicated that the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in both TFS and TFSA treatments were mainly enriched in ribosome pathway and lysosome pathway, finally affecting the protein synthesis and proteolysis in earthworms. The findings of the present study indicated that TFSA may pose a higher risk in the soil environment than TFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Liu
- Tobacco Research Institute of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Qingdao, 266101, PR China
| | - Yalei Liu
- Tobacco Research Institute of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Qingdao, 266101, PR China
| | - Kuan Fang
- Tobacco Research Institute of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Qingdao, 266101, PR China
| | - Xiaolian Zhang
- Tobacco Research Institute of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Qingdao, 266101, PR China
| | - Xiuguo Wang
- Tobacco Research Institute of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Qingdao, 266101, PR China.
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30
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Lettieri G, Marra F, Moriello C, Prisco M, Notari T, Trifuoggi M, Giarra A, Bosco L, Montano L, Piscopo M. Molecular Alterations in Spermatozoa of a Family Case Living in the Land of Fires. A First Look at Possible Transgenerational Effects of Pollutants. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186710. [PMID: 32933216 PMCID: PMC7555199 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In our previous work, we reported alterations in protamines/histones ratio, in DNA binding of these proteins and their involvement in DNA oxidative damage in 84% of the young men living in the Land of Fires. In the present work, we extended our findings, evaluating any alterations in spermatozoa of a family case, a father and son, living in this area, to also give a first look at the possibility of transgenerational inherited effects of environmental contaminants on the molecular alterations of sperm nuclear basic proteins (SNBP), DNA and semen parameters. In the father and son, we found a diverse excess of copper and chromium in the semen, different alterations in SNBP content and low DNA binding affinity of these proteins. In addition, DNA damage, in the presence of CuCl2 and H2O2, increased by adding both the father and son SNBP. Interestingly, son SNBP, unlike his father, showed an unstable DNA binding and were able to produce DNA damage even without external addition of CuCl2, in line with a lower seminal antioxidant activity than the father. The peculiarity of some characteristics of son semen could be a basis for possible future studies on transgenerational effects of pollutants on fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Lettieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.L.); (F.M.); (C.M.); (M.P.)
| | - Federica Marra
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.L.); (F.M.); (C.M.); (M.P.)
| | - Claudia Moriello
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.L.); (F.M.); (C.M.); (M.P.)
| | - Marina Prisco
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.L.); (F.M.); (C.M.); (M.P.)
| | - Tiziana Notari
- Check Up—Day Surgery, Polydiagnostic and Research Centre, Reproductive Medicine Unit, 84131 Salerno, Italy;
| | - Marco Trifuoggi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.T.); (A.G.)
| | - Antonella Giarra
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.T.); (A.G.)
| | - Liana Bosco
- Department of Biological, Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze Ed.16, 90128 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Luigi Montano
- Andrology Unit of the “S. Francesco d’Assisi” Hospital, Local Health Authority (ASL) Salerno, EcoFoodFertility Project Coordination Unit, 84020 Oliveto Citra, Italy
- Correspondence: (L.M.); (M.P.); Tel.: +39-082-879-7111 (ext. 271) (L.M.); +39-081-679-081 (M.P.)
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.L.); (F.M.); (C.M.); (M.P.)
- Correspondence: (L.M.); (M.P.); Tel.: +39-082-879-7111 (ext. 271) (L.M.); +39-081-679-081 (M.P.)
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Maresca V, Lettieri G, Sorbo S, Piscopo M, Basile A. Biological Responses to Cadmium Stress in Liverwort Conocephalum conicum (Marchantiales). Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186485. [PMID: 32899890 PMCID: PMC7555243 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative damage (production and localization of reactive oxygen species) and related response mechanisms (activity of antioxidant enzymes), and induction of Heat Shock Protein 70 expression, have been studied in the toxi-tolerant liverwort Conocephalum conicum (Marchantiales) in response to cadmium stress using two concentrations (36 and 360 µM CdCl2). Cadmium dose-dependent production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and related activity of antioxidant enzymes was observed. The expression level of heat shock protein (Hsp)70, instead, was higher at 36 µM CdCl2 in comparison with the value obtained after exposure to 360 µM CdCl2, suggesting a possible inhibition of the expression of this stress gene at higher cadmium exposure doses. Biological responses were related to cadmium bioaccumulation. Since C. conicum was able to respond to cadmium stress by modifying biological parameters, we discuss the data considering the possibility of using these biological changes as biomarkers of cadmium pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviana Maresca
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (V.M.); (G.L.)
| | - Gennaro Lettieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (V.M.); (G.L.)
| | - Sergio Sorbo
- Centro di Servizi Metrologici Avanzati (CeSMA), Microscopy Section, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80126 Naples, Italy;
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (V.M.); (G.L.)
- Correspondence: (M.P.); (A.B.); Tel.: +39-081-679-081 (M.P.); +39-081-253-8508 (A.B.)
| | - Adriana Basile
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (V.M.); (G.L.)
- Correspondence: (M.P.); (A.B.); Tel.: +39-081-679-081 (M.P.); +39-081-253-8508 (A.B.)
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Piscopo M, Notariale R, Tortora F, Lettieri G, Palumbo G, Manna C. Novel Insights into Mercury Effects on Hemoglobin and Membrane Proteins in Human Erythrocytes. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25143278. [PMID: 32707650 PMCID: PMC7397049 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25143278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a global environmental pollutant that affects human and ecosystem health. With the aim of exploring the Hg-induced protein modifications, intact human erythrocytes were exposed to HgCl2 (1-60 µM) and cytosolic and membrane proteins were analyzed by SDS-PAGE and AU-PAGE. A spectrofluorimetric assay for quantification of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) generation was also performed. Hg2+ exposure induces alterations in the electrophoretic profile of cytosolic proteins with a significant decrease in the intensity of the hemoglobin monomer, associated with the appearance of a 64 kDa band, identified as a mercurized tetrameric form. This protein decreases with increasing HgCl2 concentrations and Hg-induced ROS formation. Moreover, it appears resistant to urea denaturation and it is only partially dissociated by exposure to dithiothreitol, likely due to additional protein-Hg interactions involved in aggregate formation. In addition, specific membrane proteins, including band 3 and cytoskeletal proteins 4.1 and 4.2, are affected by Hg2+-treatment. The findings reported provide new insights into the Hg-induced possible detrimental effects on erythrocyte physiology, mainly related to alterations in the oxygen binding capacity of hemoglobin as well as decreases in band 3-mediated anion exchange. Finally, modifications of cytoskeletal proteins 4.1 and 4.2 could contribute to the previously reported alteration in cell morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy;
- Correspondence: (M.P.); (C.M.)
| | - Rosaria Notariale
- Department of Precision Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via Luigi de Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy; (R.N.); (F.T.)
| | - Fabiana Tortora
- Department of Precision Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via Luigi de Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy; (R.N.); (F.T.)
| | - Gennaro Lettieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy;
| | - Giancarlo Palumbo
- Department of Economics, Management, Institutions, University of Naples Federico II, via Cupa Nuova Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy;
| | - Caterina Manna
- Department of Precision Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via Luigi de Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy; (R.N.); (F.T.)
- Correspondence: (M.P.); (C.M.)
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Lettieri G, D’Agostino G, Mele E, Cardito C, Esposito R, Cimmino A, Giarra A, Trifuoggi M, Raimondo S, Notari T, Febbraio F, Montano L, Piscopo M. Discovery of the Involvement in DNA Oxidative Damage of Human Sperm Nuclear Basic Proteins of Healthy Young Men Living in Polluted Areas. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21124198. [PMID: 32545547 PMCID: PMC7349829 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA oxidative damage is one of the main concerns being implicated in severe cell alterations, promoting different types of human disorders and diseases. For their characteristics, male gametes are the most sensitive cells to the accumulation of damaged DNA. We have recently reported the relevance of arginine residues in the Cu(II)-induced DNA breakage of sperm H1 histones. In this work, we have extended our previous findings investigating the involvement of human sperm nuclear basic proteins on DNA oxidative damage in healthy males presenting copper and chromium excess in their semen. We found in 84% of those males an altered protamines/histones ratio and a different DNA binding mode even for those presenting a canonical protamines/histones ratio. Furthermore, all the sperm nuclear basic proteins from these samples that resulted were involved in DNA oxidative damage, supporting the idea that these proteins could promote the Fenton reaction in DNA proximity by increasing the availability of these metals near the binding surface of DNA. In conclusion, our study reveals a new and unexpected behavior of human sperm nuclear basic proteins in oxidative DNA damage, providing new insights for understanding the mechanisms related to processes in which oxidative DNA damage is implicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Lettieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.L.); (G.D.); (E.M.); (C.C.); (R.E.)
| | - Giovanni D’Agostino
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.L.); (G.D.); (E.M.); (C.C.); (R.E.)
| | - Elena Mele
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.L.); (G.D.); (E.M.); (C.C.); (R.E.)
| | - Carolina Cardito
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.L.); (G.D.); (E.M.); (C.C.); (R.E.)
| | - Rosa Esposito
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.L.); (G.D.); (E.M.); (C.C.); (R.E.)
| | - Annalinda Cimmino
- CNR, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, via Pietro Castellino, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Antonella Giarra
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.G.); (M.T.)
| | - Marco Trifuoggi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.G.); (M.T.)
| | | | - Tiziana Notari
- GEA—Gynecology Embryology Andrology—Reproductive Medicine Unit of Check Up Polydiagnostic Center, 84131 Salerno, Italy;
| | - Ferdinando Febbraio
- CNR, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, via Pietro Castellino, 80131 Naples, Italy;
- Correspondence: (F.F.); (L.M.); (M.P.); Tel.: +39-081-613-2611 (F.F.); +39-082-879-7111 (ext. 271) (L.M.); +39-081-679-081 (M.P.)
| | - Luigi Montano
- Andrology Unit of the “S. Francesco d’Assisi” Hospital, Local Health Authority (ASL) Salerno, EcoFoodFertility Project Coordination Unit, 84020 Oliveto Citra, Italy
- Correspondence: (F.F.); (L.M.); (M.P.); Tel.: +39-081-613-2611 (F.F.); +39-082-879-7111 (ext. 271) (L.M.); +39-081-679-081 (M.P.)
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.L.); (G.D.); (E.M.); (C.C.); (R.E.)
- Correspondence: (F.F.); (L.M.); (M.P.); Tel.: +39-081-613-2611 (F.F.); +39-082-879-7111 (ext. 271) (L.M.); +39-081-679-081 (M.P.)
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Gallo A, Boni R, Tosti E. Gamete quality in a multistressor environment. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 138:105627. [PMID: 32151884 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/29/2020] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Over the past few decades, accumulated evidence confirms that the global environment conditions are changing rapidly. Urban industrialization, agriculture and globalization have generated water, air and soil pollution, giving rise to an environment with a growing number of stress factors, which has a serious impact on the fitness, reproduction and survival of living organisms. The issue raises considerable concern on biodiversity conservation, which is now at risk: it is estimated that a number of species will be extinct in the near future. Sexual reproduction is the process that allows the formation of a new individual and is underpinned by gamete quality defined as the ability of spermatozoa and oocytes to interact during fertilization leading to the creation and development of a normal embryo. This review aimed to provide the current state of knowledge regarding the impact of a broad spectrum of environmental stressors on diverse parameters used to estimate and evaluate gamete quality in humans and in canonical animal models used for experimental research. Effects of metals, biocides, herbicides, nanoparticles, plastics, temperature rise, ocean acidification, air pollution and lifestyle on the physiological parameters that underlie gamete fertilization competence are described supporting the concept that environmental stressors represent a serious hazard to gamete quality with reproductive disorders and living organism failure. Although clear evidence is still limited, gamete capacity to maintain and/or recover physiological conditions is recently demonstrated providing further clues about the plasticity of organisms and their tolerance to the pressures of pollution that may facilitate the reproduction and the persistence of species within the scenario of global change. Changes in the global environment must be urgently placed at the forefront of public attention, with a massive effort invested in further studies aimed towards implementing current knowledge and identifying new methodologies and markers to predict impairment of gamete quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Gallo
- Department of Biology and Evolution of Marine Organisms, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale 1, 80121 Napoli, Italy
| | - Raffaele Boni
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Tosti
- Department of Biology and Evolution of Marine Organisms, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale 1, 80121 Napoli, Italy.
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Peacey L, Elphick MR, Jones CE. Roles of copper in neurokinin B and gonadotropin-releasing hormone structure and function and the endocrinology of reproduction. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2020; 287:113342. [PMID: 31783025 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2019.113342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 11/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Copper is a metal ion present in all organisms, where it has well-known roles in association with proteins and enzymes essential for cellular processes. In the early decades of the twentieth century copper was shown to influence mammalian reproductive biology, and it was subsequently shown to exert effects primarily at the level of the pituitary gland and/or hypothalamic regions of the brain. Furthermore, it has been reported that copper can interact with key neuropeptides in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, notably gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and neurokinin B. Interestingly, recent phylogenetic analysis of the sequences of GnRH-related peptides indicates that copper binding is an evolutionarily ancient property of this neuropeptide family, which has been variously retained, modified or lost in the different taxa. In this mini-review the metal-binding properties of neuropeptides in the vertebrate reproductive pathway are reviewed and the evolutionary and functional significance of copper binding by GnRH-related neuropeptides in vertebrates and invertebrates are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorraine Peacey
- School of Science and Health, The University of Western Sydney, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Maurice R Elphick
- Queen Mary University of London, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Mile End Road, London E14NS, UK
| | - Christopher E Jones
- School of Science and Health, The University of Western Sydney, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, New South Wales, Australia.
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Lettieri G, Maione M, Ranauda MA, Mele E, Piscopo M. Molecular effects on spermatozoa of Mytilus galloprovincialis exposed to hyposaline conditions. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:650-660. [PMID: 30938011 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Salinity represents a critical environmental and an ecological factor in the reproduction of marine species. As global climate changes and anthropogenic factors affect salinity, in this study, we have analyzed the responses of Mytilus galloprovincialis spermatozoa to hyposaline stress. We exposed mussels, in laboratory tanks, for 24 hr at 18°C to control (35.9 psu) and three hyposaline (17.1, 22.6, and 26.2 psu) conditions, and evaluated the expression of sperm hsp70 and protamine-like proteins genes. Further we analyzed the electrophoretic pattern, the DNA binding and the release from sperm nuclei of protamine-like proteins. For all experimental approaches used, the results obtained at 17.1 psu condition were very similar to those obtained in the control condition, while alterations were always recorded at 22.6 and 26.2 psu conditions. Particularly, at 22.6 and 26.2 psu, was observed: 42.5- and 17.1-fold increase in hsp70 expression, respectively, and hypoexpression of PL-II/PLIV protamine-like proteins genes. Further, electrophoretic mobility shift assays and salt-induced release of nuclear proteins from sperm nuclei, revealed alterations in the PL proteins/DNA binding, in these two hyposaline conditions. The similarity between the results obtained in control and in the more severe hyposaline condition (17.1 psu) could indicate a phenomenon of fertility preservation strategy due to gamete plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Lettieri
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studki di Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Martina Maione
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studki di Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | | | - Elena Mele
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studki di Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studki di Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy
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Binder ARD, Pfaffl MW, Hiltwein F, Geist J, Beggel S. Does environmental stress affect cortisol biodistribution in freshwater mussels? CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2019; 7:coz101. [PMID: 31832197 PMCID: PMC6899224 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coz101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
As of today, regulation and physiological purpose of steroid hormones in invertebrates such as mussels are not completely understood. Many studies were able to show their presence, but their origin and genesis are not clear. Nevertheless, knowledge about changes in steroid hormone biodistribution in reaction to treatments could improve our understanding of their physiological functions in these species. Cortisol is a corticosteroid, which is frequently used as a stress biomarker in vertebrates, like fish or higher organisms. The aim of the study was to optimize cortisol extraction from various tissues of mussels, to develop a quantitative ELISA test system, and to study changes in biodistribution of cortisol in reaction to negative and positive stimulation treatments. As model organism, we used Anodonta anatina, a widespread freshwater mussel species native to Europe. We quantified cortisol concentrations in hepatopancreas, mantle, gills, gonads and the foot muscle. Tissue-specific reactions to environmental influences, simulated with the chemical stressors copper (II) chloride and sodium chloride, were assessed. During the 24-hours treatment, we additionally observed changes in cortisol regulation in response to feeding activity of the mussels. Besides, we found highly significant variations in the biodistribution of cortisol in different tissues, with a peak in the hepatopancreas. Whole body cortisol did not increase in the treated groups. However, balancing of all measured tissues showed redistribution of more than 10% of total body cortisol from the hepatopancreas to all other tissues during copper (II) chloride stressor treatment, but also when mussels ingested feed, compared to the non-fed control group. No redistribution was observed during sodium chloride treatment. We conclude that there can be a redistribution of cortisol in mussels, depending on external influences.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ronja D Binder
- Animal Physiology and Immunology, School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University of Munich, Weihenstephaner Berg 3, Freising-Weihenstephan, D-85354, Germany
| | - Michael W Pfaffl
- Animal Physiology and Immunology, School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University of Munich, Weihenstephaner Berg 3, Freising-Weihenstephan, D-85354, Germany
| | | | - Juergen Geist
- Aquatic Systems Biology Unit, School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University of Munich, Mühlenweg 22, Freising-Weihenstephan, D-85354, Germany
| | - Sebastian Beggel
- Aquatic Systems Biology Unit, School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University of Munich, Mühlenweg 22, Freising-Weihenstephan, D-85354, Germany
- Corresponding author: Aquatic Systems Biology Unit, Mühlenweg 22, Freising-Weihenstephan, D-85354, Germany
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