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Armon-Omer A, Mansor T, Edelstein M, Bukovetzky E, Groisman L, Rorman E, Nov AS, Shahien R. Association between multiple sclerosis and urinary levels of toxic metals and organophosphates: A cross-sectional study in Israel. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2024; 83:105445. [PMID: 38242049 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2024.105445] [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: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a multifactorial disease of uncertain etiology damaging myelin sheaths around axons of the central nervous system. Myelin protects the axon from potentially harmful exogenous factors. The aetiological role of environmental exposure metals and organophosphates is unclear. OBJECTIVE Identify whether urinary levels of metals and organophosphates differed in MS patients and controls. METHODS We recruited MS patients from Ziv Medical Centre and healthy controls. MS patients were evaluated according to Expanded Disability Status Scale into mild and moderate-severe conditions. Each participant provided a urine sample and completed epidemiological questionnaires. The levels of six metal (Aluminum, Cadmium, Chromium, Lead, Mercury, Nickel) and one metalloid (Arsenic) and common organophosphates pesticide metabolites (6 dialkylphosphates, DAP) were measured in urine using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry and gas-chromatography mass-spectrometry. We compared cases with controls in terms of urinary levels of these compounds using Mann-Whitney and Kruskall-Wallis tests. RESULTS Urinary cadmium and mercury levels were higher in the 49 MS patients than the 37 controls (p < 0.01). Cadmium levels were higher in moderate-severe MS patients (n = 24) than mild MS patients (n = 25) (p = 0.003). CONCLUSION Urinary cadmium and mercury levels were higher among MS patients than controls. Cadmium levels correlated with disease severity. Further studies are needed to explore potential causal pathways between these compounds and MS pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tarek Mansor
- Department of Neurology, Ziv Medical Center, Zefat, Israel
| | - Michael Edelstein
- Ziv Medical Center, Research Institute, Zefat, Israel; Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar Ilan University, Zefat, Israel
| | | | - Luda Groisman
- National Public Health Laboratories, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Efrat Rorman
- National Public Health Laboratories, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | - Radi Shahien
- Department of Neurology, Ziv Medical Center, Zefat, Israel; Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar Ilan University, Zefat, Israel.
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Bjørklund G, Đorđević AB, Hamdan H, Wallace DR, Peana M. Metal-induced autoimmunity in neurological disorders: A review of current understanding and future directions. Autoimmun Rev 2024; 23:103509. [PMID: 38159894 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2023.103509] [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: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Autoimmunity is a multifaceted disorder influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, and metal exposure has been implicated as a potential catalyst, especially in autoimmune diseases affecting the central nervous system. Notably, metals like mercury, lead, and aluminum exhibit well-established neurotoxic effects, yet the precise mechanisms by which they elicit autoimmune responses in susceptible individuals remain unclear. Recent studies propose that metal-induced autoimmunity may arise from direct toxic effects on immune cells and tissues, coupled with indirect impacts on the gut microbiome and the blood-brain barrier. These effects can activate self-reactive T cells, prompting the production of autoantibodies, inflammatory responses, and tissue damage. Diagnosing metal-induced autoimmunity proves challenging due to nonspecific symptoms and a lack of reliable biomarkers. Treatment typically involves chelation therapy to eliminate excess metals and immunomodulatory agents to suppress autoimmune responses. Prevention strategies include lifestyle adjustments to reduce metal exposure and avoiding occupational and environmental risks. Prognosis is generally favorable with proper treatment; however, untreated cases may lead to autoimmune disorder progression and irreversible organ damage, particularly in the brain. Future research aims to identify genetic and environmental risk factors, enhance diagnostic precision, and explore novel treatment approaches for improved prevention and management of this intricate and debilitating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine, Mo i Rana, Norway.
| | | | - Halla Hamdan
- Department of Pharmacology, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK, United States
| | - David R Wallace
- Department of Pharmacology, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK, United States
| | - Massimiliano Peana
- Department of Chemical, Physical, Mathematical and Natural Sciences, University of Sassari, Italy.
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Huang J, Hu YL, Liu JZ, Zhang HC, Cao QE, Li RS, Ling J. Synthesis of a water-stable CsPbBr 3 perovskite for selective detection of mercury ion in water. LUMINESCENCE 2024; 39:e4615. [PMID: 37957886 DOI: 10.1002/bio.4615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
By using the method of low-temperature crystallization, CsPbBr3 perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs) coated with trifluoroacetyl lysine (Tfa-Lys) and oleamine (Olam) were synthesized in aqueous solution. The structure of the CsPbBr3 PNCs was characterized by many methods, such as ultraviolet (UV)-visible absorption spectrophotometer, fluorescence spectrophotometer, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern. The fluorescence emission of the CsPbBr3 PNCs is stable in water for about 1 day at room temperature. It was also found that the fluorescence of the PNCs could be obviously and selectively quenched after the addition of mercury ion (Hg2+ ), allowing a visual detection of Hg2+ by the naked eye under UV light illumination. The fluorescence quenching rate (I0 /I) has a good linear relationship with the addition of Hg2+ in the concentration range 0.075 to 1.5 mg/L, with a correlation coefficient (R2 ) of 0.997, and limit of detection of 0.046 mg/L. The fluorescence quenching mechanism of the PNCs was determined by the fluorescence lifetime and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) of the PNCs. Overall, the synthesis method for CsPbBr3 PNCs is simple and rapid, and the as-prepared PNCs are stable in water that could be conveniently used for selective detection of Hg2+ in the water environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingtao Huang
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource (Yunnan University), Ministry of Education, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Education (Yunnan University), School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Yi-Lin Hu
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource (Yunnan University), Ministry of Education, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Education (Yunnan University), School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Jin-Zhou Liu
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource (Yunnan University), Ministry of Education, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Education (Yunnan University), School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Hai-Chi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource (Yunnan University), Ministry of Education, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Education (Yunnan University), School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Qiu-E Cao
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource (Yunnan University), Ministry of Education, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Education (Yunnan University), School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Rong Sheng Li
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource (Yunnan University), Ministry of Education, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Education (Yunnan University), School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Jian Ling
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry for Natural Resource (Yunnan University), Ministry of Education, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Education (Yunnan University), School of Chemical Science and Technology, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
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Pamphlett R, Bishop DP. The toxic metal hypothesis for neurological disorders. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1173779. [PMID: 37426441 PMCID: PMC10328356 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1173779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis and the major sporadic neurogenerative disorders, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson disease, and Alzheimer disease are considered to have both genetic and environmental components. Advances have been made in finding genetic predispositions to these disorders, but it has been difficult to pin down environmental agents that trigger them. Environmental toxic metals have been implicated in neurological disorders, since human exposure to toxic metals is common from anthropogenic and natural sources, and toxic metals have damaging properties that are suspected to underlie many of these disorders. Questions remain, however, as to how toxic metals enter the nervous system, if one or combinations of metals are sufficient to precipitate disease, and how toxic metal exposure results in different patterns of neuronal and white matter loss. The hypothesis presented here is that damage to selective locus ceruleus neurons from toxic metals causes dysfunction of the blood-brain barrier. This allows circulating toxicants to enter astrocytes, from where they are transferred to, and damage, oligodendrocytes, and neurons. The type of neurological disorder that arises depends on (i) which locus ceruleus neurons are damaged, (ii) genetic variants that give rise to susceptibility to toxic metal uptake, cytotoxicity, or clearance, (iii) the age, frequency, and duration of toxicant exposure, and (iv) the uptake of various mixtures of toxic metals. Evidence supporting this hypothesis is presented, concentrating on studies that have examined the distribution of toxic metals in the human nervous system. Clinicopathological features shared between neurological disorders are listed that can be linked to toxic metals. Details are provided on how the hypothesis applies to multiple sclerosis and the major neurodegenerative disorders. Further avenues to explore the toxic metal hypothesis for neurological disorders are suggested. In conclusion, environmental toxic metals may play a part in several common neurological disorders. While further evidence to support this hypothesis is needed, to protect the nervous system it would be prudent to take steps to reduce environmental toxic metal pollution from industrial, mining, and manufacturing sources, and from the burning of fossil fuels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger Pamphlett
- Department of Pathology, Brain and Mind Centre, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Department of Neuropathology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Hyphenated Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David P. Bishop
- Hyphenated Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Simultaneously speciation of mercury in water, human blood and food samples based on pyrrolic and pyridinic nitrogen doped porous graphene nanostructure. Food Chem 2023; 403:134394. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2022.134394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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6
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Potentially toxic elements in the brains of people with multiple sclerosis. Sci Rep 2023; 13:655. [PMID: 36635465 PMCID: PMC9837144 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-27169-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Potentially toxic elements such as lead and aluminium have been proposed to play a role in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS), since their neurotoxic mechanisms mimic many of the pathogenetic processes in MS. We therefore examined the distribution of several potentially toxic elements in the autopsied brains of people with and without MS, using two methods of elemental bio-imaging. Toxicants detected in the locus ceruleus were used as indicators of past exposures. Autometallography of paraffin sections from multiple brain regions of 21 MS patients and 109 controls detected inorganic mercury, silver, or bismuth in many locus ceruleus neurons of both groups, and in widespread blood vessels, oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, and neurons of four MS patients and one control. Laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry imaging of pons paraffin sections from all MS patients and 12 controls showed that combinations of iron, silver, lead, aluminium, mercury, nickel, and bismuth were present more often in the locus ceruleus of MS patients and were located predominantly in white matter tracts. Based on these results, we propose that metal toxicants in locus ceruleus neurons weaken the blood-brain barrier, enabling multiple interacting toxicants to pass through blood vessels and enter astrocytes and oligodendroglia, leading to demyelination.
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Arakelyan M, Spagnuolo G, Iaculli F, Dikopova N, Antoshin A, Timashev P, Turkina A. Minimization of Adverse Effects Associated with Dental Alloys. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 15:7476. [PMID: 36363067 PMCID: PMC9658402 DOI: 10.3390/ma15217476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Metal alloys are one of the most popular materials used in current dental practice. In the oral cavity, metal structures are exposed to various mechanical and chemical factors. Consequently, metal ions are released into the oral fluid, which may negatively affect the surrounding tissues and even internal organs. Adverse effects associated with metallic oral appliances may have various local and systemic manifestations, such as mouth burning, potentially malignant oral lesions, and local or systemic hypersensitivity. However, clear diagnostic criteria and treatment guidelines for adverse effects associated with dental alloys have not been developed yet. The present comprehensive literature review aims (1) to summarize the current information related to possible side effects of metallic oral appliances; (2) to analyze the risk factors aggravating the negative effects of dental alloys; and (3) to develop recommendations for diagnosis, management, and prevention of pathological conditions associated with metallic oral appliances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Arakelyan
- Therapeutic Dentistry Department, Institute for Dentistry, Sechenov University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Gianrico Spagnuolo
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Flavia Iaculli
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Natalya Dikopova
- Therapeutic Dentistry Department, Institute for Dentistry, Sechenov University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Artem Antoshin
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- World-Class Research Center “Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare”, Sechenov University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Peter Timashev
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- World-Class Research Center “Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare”, Sechenov University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Chemistry Department, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | - Anna Turkina
- Therapeutic Dentistry Department, Institute for Dentistry, Sechenov University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
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8
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Yadav RK, Mehan S, Sahu R, Kumar S, Khan A, Makeen HA, Al Bratty M. Protective effects of apigenin on methylmercury-induced behavioral/neurochemical abnormalities and neurotoxicity in rats. Hum Exp Toxicol 2022; 41:9603271221084276. [PMID: 35373622 DOI: 10.1177/09603271221084276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a neurotoxin that induces neurotoxicity and cell death in neurons. MeHg increases oligodendrocyte death, glial cell activation, and motor neuron demyelination in the motor cortex and spinal cord. As a result, MeHg plays an important role in developing neurocomplications similar to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Recent research has implicated c-JNK and p38MAPK overactivation in the pathogenesis of ALS. Apigenin (APG) is a flavonoid having anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and c-JNK/p38MAPK inhibitory activities. The purpose of this study is to determine whether APG possesses neuroprotective effects in MeHg-induced neurotoxicity in adult rats associated with ALS-like neuropathological alterations. In the current study, the neurotoxin MeHg causes an ALS-like phenotype in Wistar rats after 21 days of oral administration at a dose of 5 mg/kg. Prolonged administration of APG (40 and 80 mg/kg) improved neurobehavioral parameters such as learning memory, cognition, motor coordination, and grip strength. This is mainly associated with the downregulation of c-JNK and p38MAPK signaling as well as the restoration of myelin basic protein within the brain. Furthermore, APG inhibited neuronal apoptotic markers (Bax, Bcl-2, and caspase-3), restored neurotransmitter imbalance, decreased inflammatory markers (TNF- and IL-1), and alleviated oxidative damage. As a result, the current study shows that APG has neuroprotective potential as a c-JNK and p38MAPK signaling inhibitor against MeHg-induced neurotoxicity in adult rats. Based on these promising findings, we suggested that APG could be a potential new therapeutic approach over other conventional therapeutic approaches for MeHg-induced neurotoxicity in neurobehavioral, molecular, and neurochemical abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajeshwar Kumar Yadav
- Neuropharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacology, 75126ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Sidharth Mehan
- Neuropharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacology, 75126ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Rakesh Sahu
- Neuropharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacology, 75126ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Sumit Kumar
- Neuropharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacology, 75126ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Andleeb Khan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, 123285Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hafiz Antar Makeen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, 123285Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Al Bratty
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, 123285Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
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From Molecules to Behavior in Long-Term Inorganic Mercury Intoxication: Unraveling Proteomic Features in Cerebellar Neurodegeneration of Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010111. [PMID: 35008538 PMCID: PMC8745249 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mercury is a severe environmental pollutant with neurotoxic effects, especially when exposed for long periods. Although there are several evidences regarding mercury toxicity, little is known about inorganic mercury (IHg) species and cerebellum, one of the main targets of mercury associated with the neurological symptomatology of mercurial poisoning. Besides that, the global proteomic profile assessment is a valuable tool to screen possible biomarkers and elucidate molecular targets of mercury neurotoxicity; however, the literature is still scarce. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the effects of long-term exposure to IHg in adult rats’ cerebellum and explore the modulation of the cerebellar proteome associated with biochemical and functional outcomes, providing evidence, in a translational perspective, of new mercury toxicity targets and possible biomarkers. Fifty-four adult rats were exposed to 0.375 mg/kg of HgCl2 or distilled water for 45 days using intragastric gavage. Then, the motor functions were evaluated by rotarod and inclined plane. The cerebellum was collected to quantify mercury levels, to assess the antioxidant activity against peroxyl radicals (ACAPs), the lipid peroxidation (LPO), the proteomic profile, the cell death nature by cytotoxicity and apoptosis, and the Purkinje cells density. The IHg exposure increased mercury levels in the cerebellum, reducing ACAP and increasing LPO. The proteomic approach revealed a total 419 proteins with different statuses of regulation, associated with different biological processes, such as synaptic signaling, energy metabolism and nervous system development, e.g., all these molecular changes are associated with increased cytotoxicity and apoptosis, with a neurodegenerative pattern on Purkinje cells layer and poor motor coordination and balance. In conclusion, all these findings feature a neurodegenerative process triggered by IHg in the cerebellum that culminated into motor functions deficits, which are associated with several molecular features and may be related to the clinical outcomes of people exposed to the toxicant.
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Sahu R, Upadhayay S, Mehan S. Inhibition of extracellular regulated kinase (ERK)-1/2 signaling pathway in the prevention of ALS: Target inhibitors and influences on neurological dysfunctions. Eur J Cell Biol 2021; 100:151179. [PMID: 34560374 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2021.151179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell signal transduction pathways are essential modulators of several physiological and pathological processes in the brain. During overactivation, these signaling processes may lead to disease progression. Abnormal protein kinase activation is associated with several biological dysfunctions that facilitate neurodegeneration under different biological conditions. As a result, these signaling pathways are essential in understanding brain disorders' development or progression. Recent research findings indicate the crucial role of extracellular signal-regulated kinase-1/2 (ERK-1/2) signaling during the neuronal development process. ERK-1/2 is a key component of its mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) group, controlling certain neurological activities by regulating metabolic pathways, cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. ERK-1/2 also influences neuronal elastic properties, nerve growth, and neurological and cognitive processing during brain injuries. The primary goal of this review is to elucidate the activation of ERK1/2 signaling, which is involved in the development of several ALS-related neuropathological dysfunctions. ALS is a rare neurological disorder category that mainly affects the nerve cells responsible for regulating voluntary muscle activity. ALS is progressive, which means that the symptoms are getting worse over time, and there is no cure for ALS and no effective treatment to avoid or reverse. Genetic abnormalities, oligodendrocyte degradation, glial overactivation, and immune deregulation are associated with ALS progression. Furthermore, the current review also identifies ERK-1/2 signaling inhibitors that can promote neuroprotection and neurotrophic effects against the clinical-pathological presentation of ALS. As a result, in the future, the potential ERK-1/2 signaling inhibitors could be used in the treatment of ALS and related neurocomplications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Sahu
- Neuropharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Shubham Upadhayay
- Neuropharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Sidharth Mehan
- Neuropharmacology Division, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India.
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The prevalence of inorganic mercury in human cells increases during aging but decreases in the very old. Sci Rep 2021; 11:16714. [PMID: 34408264 PMCID: PMC8373952 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-96359-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful aging is likely to involve both genetic and environmental factors, but environmental toxicants that accelerate aging are not known. Human exposure to mercury is common, and mercury has genotoxic, autoimmune, and free radical effects which could contribute to age-related disorders. The presence of inorganic mercury was therefore assessed in the organs of 170 people aged 1-104 years to determine the prevalence of mercury in human tissues at different ages. Mercury was found commonly in cells of the brain, kidney, thyroid, anterior pituitary, adrenal medulla and pancreas. The prevalence of mercury in these organs increased during aging but decreased in people aged over 80 years. People with mercury in one organ usually also had mercury in several others. In conclusion, the prevalence of inorganic mercury in human organs increases with age. The relative lack of tissue mercury in the very old could account for the flattened mortality rate and reduced incidence of cancer in this advanced age group. Since mercury may accelerate aging, efforts to reduce atmospheric mercury pollution could improve the chances of future successful aging.
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12
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Ismail OI, El-Meligy MMS. Could Vitamin C Protect Against Mercuric Chloride Induced Lung Toxicity In The Offspring Rat: A Histological And Immunohistochemical Study. Ultrastruct Pathol 2021; 45:197-211. [PMID: 34315326 DOI: 10.1080/01913123.2021.1954118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is one of the most toxic heavy metals and widely utilized in various industries. Hg exposure causes serious health impacts through unfavorable pathological and biochemical effects. We aimed to assess the effect of mercuric chloride (HgCl2) prenatal exposure on the lung development and probable prophylactic effect of vitamin C. The 30 pregnant rats were used in this work and divided randomly into 3 equal groups: Group Ӏ given distilled water, Group ӀӀ given HgCl2 at dose of 4 mg/ BW/day and Group ӀӀӀ given HgCl2 and Vitamin C at dose of 200 mg/kg BW/day. The pups of each group at birth were collected, counted and weighted then lung specimens were extracted, weighted, anaesthetized and processed for the light, electron microscopic and immunohistochemical studies. Also, morphometric studies were performed. We found that prenatal HgCl2 exposure caused collapse of alveoli, thick interalveolar septa, degenerated type Ӏ and type Ӏ pneumocytes, extensive extravasation of RBCs, extensive collagen fibers deposition, positive iNOS immunoreaction and significant decrease in the body and lung weights. Vitamin C concomitant administration partially reversed HgCl2 induced lung degeneration. We concluded that prenatal HgCl2 exposure caused lung damage and vitamin C had protective effects against HgCl2 indued pulmonary toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omnia I Ismail
- Lecturer of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Manal M S El-Meligy
- Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez University, Suez, Egypt
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Pamphlett R, Doble PA, Bishop DP. The Prevalence of Inorganic Mercury in Human Kidneys Suggests a Role for Toxic Metals in Essential Hypertension. TOXICS 2021; 9:67. [PMID: 33801008 PMCID: PMC8004013 DOI: 10.3390/toxics9030067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The kidney plays a dominant role in the pathogenesis of essential hypertension, but the initial pathogenic events in the kidney leading to hypertension are not known. Exposure to mercury has been linked to many diseases including hypertension in epidemiological and experimental studies, so we studied the distribution and prevalence of mercury in the human kidney. Paraffin sections of kidneys were available from 129 people ranging in age from 1 to 104 years who had forensic/coronial autopsies. One individual had injected himself with metallic mercury, the other 128 were from varied clinicopathological backgrounds without known exposure to mercury. Sections were stained for inorganic mercury using autometallography. Laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) was used on six samples to confirm the presence of autometallography-detected mercury and to look for other toxic metals. In the 128 people without known mercury exposure, mercury was found in: (1) proximal tubules of the cortex and Henle thin loops of the medulla, in 25% of kidneys (and also in the man who injected himself with mercury), (2) proximal tubules only in 16% of kidneys, and (3) Henle thin loops only in 23% of kidneys. The age-related proportion of people who had any mercury in their kidney was 0% at 1-20 years, 66% at 21-40 years, 77% at 41-60 years, 84% at 61-80 years, and 64% at 81-104 years. LA-ICP-MS confirmed the presence of mercury in samples staining with autometallography and showed cadmium, lead, iron, nickel, and silver in some kidneys. In conclusion, mercury is found commonly in the adult human kidney, where it appears to accumulate in proximal tubules and Henle thin loops until an advanced age. Dysfunctions of both these cortical and medullary regions have been implicated in the pathogenesis of essential hypertension, so these findings suggest that further studies of the effects of mercury on blood pressure are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger Pamphlett
- Discipline of Pathology, Brain and Mind Centre, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, Australia
- Department of Neuropathology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney 2050, Australia
| | - Philip A. Doble
- Elemental Bio-Imaging Facility, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney 2007, Australia; (P.A.D.); (D.P.B.)
| | - David P. Bishop
- Elemental Bio-Imaging Facility, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney 2007, Australia; (P.A.D.); (D.P.B.)
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Novo JP, Martins B, Raposo RS, Pereira FC, Oriá RB, Malva JO, Fontes-Ribeiro C. Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms Mediating Methylmercury Neurotoxicity and Neuroinflammation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22063101. [PMID: 33803585 PMCID: PMC8003103 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) toxicity is a major environmental concern. In the aquatic reservoir, MeHg bioaccumulates along the food chain until it is consumed by riverine populations. There has been much interest in the neurotoxicity of MeHg due to recent environmental disasters. Studies have also addressed the implications of long-term MeHg exposure for humans. The central nervous system is particularly susceptible to the deleterious effects of MeHg, as evidenced by clinical symptoms and histopathological changes in poisoned humans. In vitro and in vivo studies have been crucial in deciphering the molecular mechanisms underlying MeHg-induced neurotoxicity. A collection of cellular and molecular alterations including cytokine release, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, Ca2+ and glutamate dyshomeostasis, and cell death mechanisms are important consequences of brain cells exposure to MeHg. The purpose of this review is to organize an overview of the mercury cycle and MeHg poisoning events and to summarize data from cellular, animal, and human studies focusing on MeHg effects in neurons and glial cells. This review proposes an up-to-date compendium that will serve as a starting point for further studies and a consultation reference of published studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- João P. Novo
- Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), and Institute of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (J.P.N.); (B.M.); (R.S.R.); (F.C.P.)
| | - Beatriz Martins
- Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), and Institute of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (J.P.N.); (B.M.); (R.S.R.); (F.C.P.)
| | - Ramon S. Raposo
- Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), and Institute of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (J.P.N.); (B.M.); (R.S.R.); (F.C.P.)
- Experimental Biology Core, University of Fortaleza, Health Sciences, Fortaleza 60110-001, Brazil
| | - Frederico C. Pereira
- Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), and Institute of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (J.P.N.); (B.M.); (R.S.R.); (F.C.P.)
| | - Reinaldo B. Oriá
- Laboratory of Tissue Healing, Ontogeny and Nutrition, Department of Morphology and Institute of Biomedicine, School of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60430-270, Brazil;
| | - João O. Malva
- Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), and Institute of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (J.P.N.); (B.M.); (R.S.R.); (F.C.P.)
- Correspondence: (J.O.M.); (C.F.-R.)
| | - Carlos Fontes-Ribeiro
- Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), and Institute of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (J.P.N.); (B.M.); (R.S.R.); (F.C.P.)
- Correspondence: (J.O.M.); (C.F.-R.)
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Li B, Xia M, Zorec R, Parpura V, Verkhratsky A. Astrocytes in heavy metal neurotoxicity and neurodegeneration. Brain Res 2021; 1752:147234. [PMID: 33412145 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2020.147234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
With the industrial development and progressive increase in environmental pollution, the mankind overexposure to heavy metals emerges as a pressing public health issue. Excessive intake of heavy metals, such as arsenic (As), manganese (Mn), mercury (Hg), aluminium (Al), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), bismuth (Bi), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe), is neurotoxic and it promotes neurodegeneration. Astrocytes are primary homeostatic cells in the central nervous system. They protect neurons against all types of insults, in particular by accumulating heavy metals. However, this makes astrocytes the main target for heavy metals neurotoxicity. Intake of heavy metals affects astroglial homeostatic and neuroprotective cascades including glutamate/GABA-glutamine shuttle, antioxidative machinery and energy metabolism. Deficits in these astroglial pathways facilitate or even instigate neurodegeneration. In this review, we provide a concise outlook on heavy metal-induced astrogliopathies and their association with major neurodegenerative disorders. In particular, we focus on astroglial mechanisms of iron-induced neurotoxicity. Iron deposits in the brain are detected in main neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Accumulation of iron in the brain is associated with motor and cognitive impairments and iron-induced histopathological manifestations may be considered as the potential diagnostic biomarker of neurodegenerative diseases. Effective management of heavy metal neurotoxicity can be regarded as a potential strategy to prevent or retard neurodegenerative pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoman Li
- Practical Teaching Centre, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China.
| | - Maosheng Xia
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Robert Zorec
- Celica BIOMEDICAL, Tehnološki Park 24, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology-Molecular Cell Physiology, Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Zaloška 4, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Vladimir Parpura
- Department of Neurobiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Alexei Verkhratsky
- Practical Teaching Centre, School of Forensic Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China; Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Achucarro Center for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48011 Bilbao, Spain.
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16
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Navarro-Sempere A, Segovia Y, Rodrigues AS, Garcia PV, Camarinho R, García M. First record on mercury accumulation in mice brain living in active volcanic environments: a cytochemical approach. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2021; 43:171-183. [PMID: 32794111 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-020-00690-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The health effects of mercury vapor exposure on the brain in volcanic areas have not been previously addressed in the literature. However, 10% of the worldwide population inhabits in the vicinity of an active volcano, which are natural sources of elemental mercury emission. To evaluate the presence of mercury compounds in the brain after chronic exposure to volcanogenic mercury vapor, a histochemical study, using autometallographic silver, was carried out to compare the brain of mice chronically exposed to an active volcanic environment (Furnas village, Azores, Portugal) with those not exposed (Rabo de Peixe village, Azores, Portugal). Results demonstrated several mercury deposits in blood vessels, white matter and some cells of the hippocampus in the brain of chronically exposed mice. Our results highlight that chronic exposure to an active volcanic environment results in brain mercury accumulation, raising an alert regarding potential human health risks. These findings support the hypothesis that mercury exposure can be a risk factor in causing neurodegenerative diseases in the inhabitants of volcanically active areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Navarro-Sempere
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Alicante, Apartado 99, 03080, Alicante, Spain
| | - Y Segovia
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Alicante, Apartado 99, 03080, Alicante, Spain.
| | - A S Rodrigues
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Portugal
- IVAR, Research Institute for Volcanology and Risk Assessment, University of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Portugal
| | - P V Garcia
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Portugal
- cE3c, Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes, and Azorean Biodiversity Group, University of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Portugal
| | - R Camarinho
- Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Portugal
- IVAR, Research Institute for Volcanology and Risk Assessment, University of the Azores, 9501-801, Ponta Delgada, Portugal
| | - M García
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Alicante, Apartado 99, 03080, Alicante, Spain
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Bjørklund G, Pivina L, Dadar M, Semenova Y, Chirumbolo S, Aaseth J. Mercury Exposure, Epigenetic Alterations and Brain Tumorigenesis: A Possible Relationship? Curr Med Chem 2020; 27:6596-6610. [DOI: 10.2174/0929867326666190930150159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
The risk assessment of mercury (Hg), in both wildlife and humans, represents an increasing
challenge. Increased production of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) is a known Hg-induced
toxic effect, which can be accentuated by other environmental pollutants and by complex interactions
between environmental and genetic factors. Some epidemiological and experimental studies
have investigated a possible correlation between brain tumors and heavy metals. Epigenetic modifications
in brain tumors include aberrant activation of genes, hypomethylation of specific genes,
changes in various histones, and CpG hypermethylation. Also, Hg can decrease the bioavailability
of selenium and induce the generation of reactive oxygen that plays important roles in different
pathological processes. Modification of of metals can induce excess ROS and cause lipid peroxidation,
alteration of proteins, and DNA damage. In this review, we highlight the possible relationship
between Hg exposure, epigenetic alterations, and brain tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine (CONEM), Mo i Rana, Norway
| | | | - Maryam Dadar
- Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | | | - Salvatore Chirumbolo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Jan Aaseth
- Research Department, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Brumunddal, Norway
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18
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Bjørklund G, Dadar M, Chirumbolo S, Aaseth J, Peana M. Metals, autoimmunity, and neuroendocrinology: Is there a connection? ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 187:109541. [PMID: 32445945 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
It has been demonstrated that metals can induce autoimmunity. However, few studies have attempted to assess and elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action. Recent research has tried to evaluate the possible interactions of the immune system with metal ions, particularly with heavy metals. Research indicates that metals have the potential to induce or promote the development of autoimmunity in humans. Metal-induced inflammation may dysregulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and thus contribute to fatigue and other non-specific symptoms characterizing disorders related to autoimmune diseases. The toxic effects of several metals are also mediated through free radical formation, cell membrane disturbance, or enzyme inhibition. There are worldwide increases in environmental metal pollution. It is therefore critical that studies on the role of metals in autoimmunity, and neuroendocrine disorders, including effects on the developing immune system and brain and the genetic susceptibility are performed. These studies can lead to efficient preventive strategies and improved therapeutic approaches. In this review, we have retrieved and commented on studies that evaluated the effects of metal toxicity on immune and endocrine-related pathways. This review aims to increase awareness of metals as factors in the onset and progression of autoimmune and neuroendocrine disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine, Mo i Rana, Norway.
| | - Maryam Dadar
- Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | - Salvatore Chirumbolo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy; CONEM Scientific Secretary, Verona, Italy
| | - Jan Aaseth
- Research Department, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Brumunddal, Norway; IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Massimiliano Peana
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
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19
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Werkman IL, Lentferink DH, Baron W. Macroglial diversity: white and grey areas and relevance to remyelination. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 78:143-171. [PMID: 32648004 PMCID: PMC7867526 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03586-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Macroglia, comprising astrocytes and oligodendroglial lineage cells, have long been regarded as uniform cell types of the central nervous system (CNS). Although regional morphological differences between these cell types were initially described after their identification a century ago, these differences were largely ignored. Recently, accumulating evidence suggests that macroglial cells form distinct populations throughout the CNS, based on both functional and morphological features. Moreover, with the use of refined techniques including single-cell and single-nucleus RNA sequencing, additional evidence is emerging for regional macroglial heterogeneity at the transcriptional level. In parallel, several studies revealed the existence of regional differences in remyelination capacity between CNS grey and white matter areas, both in experimental models for successful remyelination as well as in the chronic demyelinating disease multiple sclerosis (MS). In this review, we provide an overview of the diversity in oligodendroglial lineage cells and astrocytes from the grey and white matter, as well as their interplay in health and upon demyelination and successful remyelination. In addition, we discuss the implications of regional macroglial diversity for remyelination in light of its failure in MS. Since the etiology of MS remains unknown and only disease-modifying treatments altering the immune response are available for MS, the elucidation of macroglial diversity in grey and white matter and its putative contribution to the observed difference in remyelination efficiency between these regions may open therapeutic avenues aimed at enhancing endogenous remyelination in either area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inge L Werkman
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells and Systems, Section Molecular Neurobiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen, the Netherlands
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA
| | - Dennis H Lentferink
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells and Systems, Section Molecular Neurobiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Wia Baron
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells and Systems, Section Molecular Neurobiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen, the Netherlands.
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20
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Andrew AS, O’Brien KM, Jackson BP, Sandler DP, Kaye WE, Wagner L, Stommel EW, Horton DK, Mehta P, Weinberg CR. Keratinous biomarker of mercury exposure associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis risk in a nationwide U.S. study. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2020; 21:420-427. [DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2020.1753777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Katie M. O’Brien
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, NC, USA,
| | - Brian P. Jackson
- Department of Earth Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA,
| | - Dale P. Sandler
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, NC, USA,
| | | | | | | | - D. Kevin Horton
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Paul Mehta
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), Atlanta, GA, USA
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21
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Pamphlett R, Kum Jew S, Doble PA, Bishop DP. Elemental imaging shows mercury in cells of the human lateral and medial geniculate nuclei. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0231870. [PMID: 32320439 PMCID: PMC7176133 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0231870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Interference with the transmission of sensory signals along visual and auditory pathways has been implicated in the pathogenesis of hallucinations. The relay centres for vision (the lateral geniculate nucleus) and hearing (the medial geniculate nucleus) appear to be susceptible to the uptake of circulating mercury. We therefore investigated the distribution of mercury in cells of both these geniculate nuclei. MATERIALS AND METHODS Paraffin-embedded tissue sections containing the lateral geniculate nucleus were obtained from 50 adults (age range 20-104 years) who at autopsy had a variety of clinicopathological conditions, including neurological and psychiatric disorders. The medial geniculate nucleus was present in seven sections. Sections were stained for mercury using autometallography. Laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry was used to confirm the presence of mercury. RESULTS Ten people had mercury in cells of the lateral geniculate nucleus, and in the medial geniculate nucleus of three of these. Medical diagnoses in these individuals were: none (3), Parkinson disease (3), and one each of depression, bipolar disorder, multiple sclerosis, and mercury self-injection. Mercury was distributed in different groups of geniculate capillary endothelial cells, neurons, oligodendrocytes, and astrocytes. Mass spectrometry confirmed the presence of mercury. CONCLUSION Mercury is present in different combinations of cell types in the lateral and medial geniculate nuclei in a proportion of people from varied backgrounds. This raises the possibility that mercury-induced impairment of the function of the geniculate nuclei could play a part in the genesis of visual and auditory hallucinations. Although these findings do not provide a direct link between mercury in geniculate cells and hallucinations, they suggest that further investigations into the possibility of toxicant-induced hallucinations are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger Pamphlett
- Discipline of Pathology, Brain and Mind Centre, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Neuropathology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Stephen Kum Jew
- Discipline of Pathology, Brain and Mind Centre, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Philip A. Doble
- Elemental Bio-Imaging Facility, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David P. Bishop
- Elemental Bio-Imaging Facility, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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22
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Dental Amalgam Fillings and Multiple Sclerosis: A Nationwide Population-Based Case-Control Study in Taiwan. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17082637. [PMID: 32290568 PMCID: PMC7215668 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17082637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory neurological disease characterized by autoimmune-mediated demyelination of the central nervous system. Genetic and environmental factors may contribute to the development of MS. This has not been confirmed yet. Dental amalgam has long been controversial in MS due to its mercury content but the toxicological implications of mercury-containing amalgam fillings (AMF) for MS remain to be elucidated. We conducted a case–control study to investigate the association between AMF and the risk of MS from the Taiwanese National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD). Case (n = 612) and control (n = 612) groups were matched by sex, age, urbanization level, monthly income, and Charlson comorbidity index by propensity score matched with a 1:1 ratio from 2000 to 2013. Differences between cases and controls was not statistically significant (OR: 0.82, 95% CI = 0.65–1.05). In subjects stratified by gender, MS was also not associated with AMF for women (OR: 0.743, 95% CI = 0.552–1.000) and men (OR: 1.006, 95% CI = 0.670–1.509), respectively. In summary, this Taiwanese nationwide population-based case–control study did not find an association between MS and AMF.
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Del Re B, Giorgi G. Long INterspersed element-1 mobility as a sensor of environmental stresses. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2020; 61:465-493. [PMID: 32144842 DOI: 10.1002/em.22366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Long INterspersed element (LINE-1, L1) retrotransposons are the most abundant transposable elements in the human genome, constituting approximately 17%. They move by a "copy-paste" mechanism, involving reverse transcription of an RNA intermediate and insertion of its cDNA copy at a new site in the genome. L1 retrotransposition (L1-RTP) can cause insertional mutations, alter gene expression, transduce exons, and induce epigenetic dysregulation. L1-RTP is generally repressed; however, a number of observations collected over about 15 years revealed that it can occur in response to environmental stresses. Moreover, emerging evidence indicates that L1-RTP can play a role in the onset of several neurological and oncological diseases in humans. In recent years, great attention has been paid to the exposome paradigm, which proposes that health effects of an environmental factor should be evaluated considering both cumulative environmental exposures and the endogenous processes resulting from the biological response. L1-RTP could be an endogenous process considered for this application. Here, we summarize the current understanding of environmental factors that can affect the retrotransposition of human L1 elements. Evidence indicates that L1-RTP alteration is triggered by numerous and various environmental stressors, such as chemical agents (heavy metals, carcinogens, oxidants, and drugs), physical agents (ionizing and non-ionizing radiations), and experiential factors (voluntary exercise, social isolation, maternal care, and environmental light/dark cycles). These data come from in vitro studies on cell lines and in vivo studies on transgenic animals: future investigations should be focused on physiologically relevant models to gain a better understanding of this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brunella Del Re
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Giorgi
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Hasan A, Nanakali NMQ, Salihi A, Rasti B, Sharifi M, Attar F, Derakhshankhah H, Mustafa IA, Abdulqadir SZ, Falahati M. Nanozyme-based sensing platforms for detection of toxic mercury ions: An alternative approach to conventional methods. Talanta 2020; 215:120939. [PMID: 32312429 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2020.120939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is known as a poisonous heavy metal which stimulates a wide range of adverse effects on the human health. Therefore, development of some feasible, practical and highly sensitive platforms would be desirable in determination of Hg2+ level as low as nmol L-1 or pmol L-1. Different approaches such as ICP-MS, AAS/AES, and nanomaterial-based nanobiosensors have been manipulated for determination of Hg2+ level. However, these approaches suffer from expensive instruments and complicated sample preparation. Recently, nanozymes have been assembled to address some disadvantages of conventional methods in the detection of Hg2+. Along with the outstanding progress in nanotechnology and computational approaches, pronounced improvement has been attained in the field of nanozymes, recently. To accentuate these progresses, this review presents an overview on the different reports of Hg2+-induced toxicity on the different tissues followed by various conventional approaches validated for the determination of Hg2+ level. Afterwards, different types of nanozymes like AuNPs, PtNPs for quantitative detection of Hg2+ were surveyed. Finally, the current challenges and the future directions were explored to alleviate the limitation of nanozyme-based platforms with potential engineering in detection of heavy metals, namely Hg2+. The current overview can provide outstanding information to develop nano-based platforms for improvement of LOD and LOQ of analytical methods in sensitive detection of Hg2+ and other heavy metals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anwarul Hasan
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, College of Engineering, Qatar University, Doha, 2713, Qatar; Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, 2713, Qatar.
| | - Nadir Mustafa Qadir Nanakali
- Department of Biology, College of Education, Salahaddin University-Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq; Department of Biology, College of Science, Cihan University-Erbil, Iraq
| | - Abbas Salihi
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Salahaddin University-Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Behnam Rasti
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Lahijan Branch, Islamic Azad University (IAU), Lahijan, Guilan, Iran
| | - Majid Sharifi
- Department of Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Sciences and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Farnoosh Attar
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Food Industry and Agriculture, Standard Research Institute (SRI), Karaj, Iran
| | - Hossein Derakhshankhah
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Inaam Ahmad Mustafa
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Salahaddin University-Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Shang Ziyad Abdulqadir
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Salahaddin University-Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Mojtaba Falahati
- Department of Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Sciences and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
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25
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Nicoletti A, Rascunà C, Boumediene F, Vasta R, Cicero CE, Lo Fermo S, Ferrante M, Marziolo R, Maimone D, Grimaldi LM, Preux PM, Patti F, Zappia M. Incidence of multiple sclerosis in the province of Catania. A geo-epidemiological study. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 182:109022. [PMID: 31883496 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.109022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An increasing incidence of MS in the city of Catania was reported during 1975-2004, with a higher incidence along the south-eastern flank of the Mt.Etna. We evaluated the incidence of MS in the entire province of Catania during 2005-2015 and the spatial distribution of MS-cases using a cluster analysis. METHODS Patients were considered as incident MS-cases if they fulfilled the revised McDonald criteria for MS during 2005-2015 and were residents in the province of Catania at the time of disease onset. Cluster analysis was performed using both LISA and Kulldorff's spatial scan statistic. Residence address at disease onset was considered for each case. Communalities were assessed considering the centroid of their inhabited area. RESULTS A total of 973 MS-cases were identified. Mean annual incidence risk was 8.2/100,000 person-years (95%CI 7.7-8.7), significantly higher among women (10.5/100,000 versus 5.7/100,000). LISA identified a spatial aggregation of MS-cases in the eastern side of the province of Catania and Kulldorff's statistics confirmed the existence of a statistically significant spatial cluster in this area (SIR 1.23,95%CI 1.08-1.23, p-value 0.04). CONCLUSIONS Our study confirms a high incidence of MS in the province of Catania and the presence of a spatial cluster along the eastern side of the province. This area is considered the most exposed to volcanogenic ashes due to the prevailing westerly to north-westerly trade winds. Even if such distribution could be related with a greater exposure to volcanogenic metals, further studies are needed to explore possible alternative hypotheses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Nicoletti
- Section of Neurosciences, Department GF Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Cristina Rascunà
- Section of Neurosciences, Department GF Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Farid Boumediene
- INSERM, U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, University of Limoges, France.
| | - Rosario Vasta
- ALS Center, 'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | | | - Salvatore Lo Fermo
- Section of Neurosciences, Department GF Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Margherita Ferrante
- Environmental and Food Hygiene Laboratory LIAA, Department GF Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | | | | | | | - Pierre-Marie Preux
- INSERM, U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, University of Limoges, France.
| | - Francesco Patti
- Section of Neurosciences, Department GF Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Mario Zappia
- Section of Neurosciences, Department GF Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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O'Donoghue JL, Watson GE, Brewer R, Zareba G, Eto K, Takahashi H, Marumoto M, Love T, Harrington D, Myers GJ. Neuropathology associated with exposure to different concentrations and species of mercury: A review of autopsy cases and the literature. Neurotoxicology 2020; 78:88-98. [PMID: 32092311 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2020.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2019] [Revised: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human exposure to mercury (Hg) is widespread and both organic and inorganic Hg are routinely found in the human brain. Millions of people are exposed to methyl Hg (MeHg) due to the consumption of fish and to inorganic Hg from dental amalgams, small scale gold mining operations, use of Hg containing products, or their occupations. Neuropathology information associated with exposures to different species of Hg is primarily based on case reports of single individuals or collections of case studies involving a single species of Hg at toxic exposure levels such as occurred in Japan and Iraq. METHODS/RESULTS This study brings together information on the neuropathological findings and deposition of Hg in the central nervous system of people exposed to different species of Hg at varying concentrations. The low dose exposures were lifetime exposures while the high dose exposures were generally acute or short term by different exposure routes with survival lasting various lengths of time. Total and inorganic Hg deposits were identified in formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded tissues from both low and high exposure Hg cases. Low concentration exposures were studied in adult brains from Rochester, New York (n = 4) and the Republic of Seychelles (n = 17). Rochester specimens had mean total Hg concentrations of 16-18 ppb in the calcarine, rolandic, and cerebellar cortices. Inorganic Hg averaged between 5-6 ppb or 30-37% for the cerebral and cerebellar cortices of the Rochester subjects. Total Hg was approximately 10-fold higher in specimens from Seychelles, where consumption of ocean fish is high and consequently results in exposure to MeHg. The predominant Hg species was MeHg in both the Rochester and Seychelles brain specimens. Histologically, cerebral and cerebellar cortices from Rochester and Seychelles specimens were indistinguishable. High concentration exposures were studied in brains from four adults who were autopsied at variable time periods after exposure to organic Hg (methyl or dimethyl) or inorganic Hg (inhaled vapor or intravenous injection of metallic Hg). In contrast to the Seychellois adults, these individuals had acute or subacute exposures to lethal or significantly higher concentrations. The pattern of Hg deposition differed between subjects with high organic Hg exposure and high inorganic Hg exposure. In the organic Hg cases, glia (astrocytes and microglia) and endothelial cells accumulated more Hg than neurons and there were minimal Hg deposits in cerebellar granule and Purkinje cells, anterior horn motor neurons, and neocortical pyramidal neurons. In the inorganic Hg cases, Hg was seen predominantly in neurons, vascular walls, brainstem, and cerebellar and cerebral deep gray nuclei. The presence of inorganic Hg in neural and neural supporting cells in the four high exposure Hg cases was not closely correlated with cellular pathology; particularly in the inorganic Hg cases. CONCLUSIONS Different Hg species are associated with differing neuropathological patterns. No neuropathological abnormalities were present in the brains of either Rochester or Seychelles residents despite substantial differences in dietary MeHg exposure. Increasing concentrations of inorganic Hg were present in the brain of relatively low exposure subjects with increasing age.
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Affiliation(s)
- John L O'Donoghue
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Box EHSC, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY 14642, United States.
| | - Gene E Watson
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Box EHSC, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY 14642, United States; Eastman Institute for Oral Health and Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Box 683, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Rubell Brewer
- Victoria Hospital and the Ministry of Health, Seychelles
| | - Grazyna Zareba
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Box EHSC, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
| | - Komyo Eto
- Formerly Director General, National Institute for Minamata Disease, Ministry of the Environment, 4058-18, Hama, Minamata City, Kumamoto Prefecture, 867-0008, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Takahashi
- Department of Pathology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, 1-757 Asahimachi, Chuo-ku, Niigata, 951-8585, Japan
| | - Masumi Marumoto
- Toxicologic Pathology Section, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, National Institute for Minamata Disease, Ministry of the Environment, 4058-18, Hama, Minamata City, Kumamoto Prefecture, 867-0008, Japan
| | - Tanzy Love
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Box 630, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Donald Harrington
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Box 630, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Gary J Myers
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Box EHSC, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY 14642, United States; Department of Neurology, Child Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Box 631, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642, United States; Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Box 631, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
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Bjørklund G, Peana M, Dadar M, Chirumbolo S, Aaseth J, Martins N. Mercury-induced autoimmunity: Drifting from micro to macro concerns on autoimmune disorders. Clin Immunol 2020; 213:108352. [PMID: 32032765 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2020.108352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is widely recognized as a neurotoxic metal, besides it can also act as a proinflammatory agent and immunostimulant, depending on individual exposure and susceptibility. Mercury exposure may arise from internal body pathways, such as via dental amalgams, preservatives in drugs and vaccines, and seafood consumption, or even from external pathways, i.e., occupational exposure, environmental pollution, and handling of metallic items and cosmetics containing Hg. In susceptible individuals, chronic low Hg exposure may trigger local and systemic inflammation, even exacerbating the already existing autoimmune response in patients with autoimmunity. Mercury exposure can trigger dysfunction of the autoimmune responses and aggravate immunotoxic effects associated with elevated serum autoantibodies titers. The purpose of the present review is to provide a critical overview of the many issues associated with Hg exposure and autoimmunity. In addition, the paper focuses on individual susceptibility and other health effects of Hg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine, Mo i Rana, Norway.
| | - Massimiliano Peana
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Maryam Dadar
- Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | - Salvatore Chirumbolo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy; CONEM Scientific Secretary, Verona, Italy
| | - Jan Aaseth
- Research Department, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Brumunddal, Norway
| | - Natália Martins
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; Institute for Research and Innovation in Health (I3S), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Wallin C, Friedemann M, Sholts SB, Noormägi A, Svantesson T, Jarvet J, Roos PM, Palumaa P, Gräslund A, Wärmländer SKTS. Mercury and Alzheimer's Disease: Hg(II) Ions Display Specific Binding to the Amyloid-β Peptide and Hinder Its Fibrillization. Biomolecules 2019; 10:E44. [PMID: 31892131 PMCID: PMC7022868 DOI: 10.3390/biom10010044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Brains and blood of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients have shown elevated mercury concentrations, but potential involvement of mercury exposure in AD pathogenesis has not been studied at the molecular level. The pathological hallmark of AD brains is deposition of amyloid plaques, consisting mainly of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides aggregated into amyloid fibrils. Aβ peptide fibrillization is known to be modulated by metal ions such as Cu(II) and Zn(II). Here, we study in vitro the interactions between Aβ peptides and Hg(II) ions by multiple biophysical techniques. Fluorescence spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy (AFM) show that Hg(II) ions have a concentration-dependent inhibiting effect on Aβ fibrillization: at a 1:1 Aβ·Hg(II) ratio only non-fibrillar Aβ aggregates are formed. NMR spectroscopy shows that Hg(II) ions interact with the N-terminal region of Aβ(1-40) with a micromolar affinity, likely via a binding mode similar to that for Cu(II) and Zn(II) ions, i.e., mainly via the histidine residues His6, His13, and His14. Thus, together with Cu(II), Fe(II), Mn(II), Pb(IV), and Zn(II) ions, Hg(II) belongs to a family of metal ions that display residue-specific binding interactions with Aβ peptides and modulate their aggregation processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Wallin
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, 10691 Stockholm, Sweden; (C.W.); (T.S.); (J.J.); (A.G.)
| | - Merlin Friedemann
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn University of Technology, 19086 Tallinn, Estonia; (M.F.); (A.N.); (P.P.)
| | - Sabrina B. Sholts
- Department of Anthropology, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20560, USA;
| | - Andra Noormägi
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn University of Technology, 19086 Tallinn, Estonia; (M.F.); (A.N.); (P.P.)
| | - Teodor Svantesson
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, 10691 Stockholm, Sweden; (C.W.); (T.S.); (J.J.); (A.G.)
| | - Jüri Jarvet
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, 10691 Stockholm, Sweden; (C.W.); (T.S.); (J.J.); (A.G.)
- The National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics, 12618 Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Per M. Roos
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 16765 Stockholm, Sweden;
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Capio St. Göran Hospital, 11219 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peep Palumaa
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn University of Technology, 19086 Tallinn, Estonia; (M.F.); (A.N.); (P.P.)
| | - Astrid Gräslund
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, 10691 Stockholm, Sweden; (C.W.); (T.S.); (J.J.); (A.G.)
| | - Sebastian K. T. S. Wärmländer
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, 10691 Stockholm, Sweden; (C.W.); (T.S.); (J.J.); (A.G.)
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Hachim MY, Elemam NM, Maghazachi AA. The Beneficial and Debilitating Effects of Environmental and Microbial Toxins, Drugs, Organic Solvents and Heavy Metals on the Onset and Progression of Multiple Sclerosis. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:E147. [PMID: 30841532 PMCID: PMC6468554 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11030147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system is common amongst young adults, leading to major personal and socioeconomic burdens. However, it is still considered complex and challenging to understand and treat, in spite of the efforts made to explain its etiopathology. Despite the discovery of many genetic and environmental factors that might be related to its etiology, no clear answer was found about the causes of the illness and neither about the detailed mechanism of these environmental triggers that make individuals susceptible to MS. In this review, we will attempt to explore the major contributors to MS autoimmunity including genetic, epigenetic and ecological factors with a particular focus on toxins, chemicals or drugs that may trigger, modify or prevent MS disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmood Y Hachim
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, and the Immuno-Oncology group, Sharjah Institute for Medical Research (SIMR), University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Noha M Elemam
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, and the Immuno-Oncology group, Sharjah Institute for Medical Research (SIMR), University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Azzam A Maghazachi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, and the Immuno-Oncology group, Sharjah Institute for Medical Research (SIMR), University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates.
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30
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Fulgenzi A, Ferrero ME. EDTA Chelation Therapy for the Treatment of Neurotoxicity. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20051019. [PMID: 30813622 PMCID: PMC6429616 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20051019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurotoxicity can be caused by numerous direct agents, of which toxic metals, organophosphorus pesticides, air pollution, radiation and electromagnetic fields, neurotoxins, chemotherapeutic and anesthetic drugs, and pathogens are the most important. Other indirect causes of neurotoxicity are cytokine and/or reactive oxygen species production and adoptive immunotherapy. The development of neurodegenerative diseases has been associated with neurotoxicity. Which arms are useful to prevent or eliminate neurotoxicity? The chelating agent calcium disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)-previously used to treat cardiovascular diseases-is known to be useful for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. This review describes how EDTA functions as a therapeutic agent for these diseases. Some case studies are reported to confirm our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Fulgenzi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of the Study of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Maria Elena Ferrero
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of the Study of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy.
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31
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A Comparison of Mercury Exposure from Seafood Consumption and Dental Amalgam Fillings in People with and without Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): An International Online Case-Control Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15122874. [PMID: 30558238 PMCID: PMC6313312 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15122874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Exposures to toxic metals such as mercury have been suggested to be risk factors for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Human intake of mercury commonly occurs via consumption of seafood or from mercury-containing amalgam dental restorations ('mercury fillings'). We therefore compared mercury exposures from these sources in 401 ALS and 452 non-ALS respondents, using an internationally-available online questionnaire that asked respondents how often they ate seafood and what their favourite types of seafoods were. Respondents were also asked to record numbers of current or former mercury fillings. ALS and non-ALS respondents did not differ in their frequency of seafood consumption or in monthly mercury intake from favourite seafoods. Both groups had similar numbers of current, as well as former, mercury fillings. In conclusion, this study found no evidence that mercury exposure from eating seafood, or from mercury dental fillings, was associated with the risk of developing ALS. Therefore, if mercury does play a role in the pathogenesis of ALS, other sources of exposure to mercury in the environment or workplace need to be considered. Alternatively, a susceptibility to mercury toxicity in ALS, such as genetic or epigenetic variations, multiple toxic metal interactions, or selenium deficiency, may be present.
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32
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Pamphlett R, Bishop DP, Kum Jew S, Doble PA. Age-related accumulation of toxic metals in the human locus ceruleus. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0203627. [PMID: 30231068 PMCID: PMC6145836 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Damage to the locus ceruleus has been implicated in the pathogenesis of a number of neurological conditions. Locus ceruleus neurons accumulate toxic metals such as mercury selectively, however, the presence of toxic metals in locus ceruleus neurons of people of different ages, and with a variety of disorders, is not known. To demonstrate at what age toxic metals are first detectable in the locus ceruleus, and to evaluate whether their presence is more common in certain clinicopathological conditions, we looked for these metals in 228 locus ceruleus samples. Samples were taken at coronial autopsies from individuals with a wide range of ages, pre-existing conditions and causes of death. Paraffin sections of pons containing the locus ceruleus were stained with silver nitrate autometallography, which indicates inorganic mercury, silver and bismuth within cells (termed autometallography-detected toxic metals, or AMG™). No locus ceruleus AMG neurons were seen in 38 individuals aged under 20 years. 47% of the 190 adults (ie, aged 20 years and over) had AMG locus ceruleus neurons. The proportion of adults with locus ceruleus AMG neurons increased during aging, except for a decreased proportion in the 90-plus years age group. No differences were found in the proportions of locus ceruleus AMG neurons between groups with different neurological, psychiatric, or other clinicopathological conditions, or among various causes of death. Elemental analysis with laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry was used to cross-validate the metals detected by AMG, by looking for silver, gold, bismuth, cadmium, chromium, iron, mercury, nickel, and lead in the locus ceruleus of ten individuals. This confirmed the presence of mercury in locus ceruleus samples containing AMG neurons, and showed cadmium, silver, lead, iron, and nickel in the locus ceruleus of some individuals. In conclusion, toxic metals stained by AMG (most likely inorganic mercury) appear in locus ceruleus neurons in early adult life. About half of adults in this study had locus ceruleus neurons containing inorganic mercury, and elemental analysis found a range of other toxic metals in the locus ceruleus. Locus ceruleus inorganic mercury increased during aging, except for a decrease in advanced age, but was not found more often in any single clinicopathological condition or cause of death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger Pamphlett
- Discipline of Pathology, Sydney Medical School, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Neuropathology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David P. Bishop
- Elemental Bio-imaging Facility, University of Technology, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Stephen Kum Jew
- Discipline of Pathology, Sydney Medical School, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Philip A. Doble
- Elemental Bio-imaging Facility, University of Technology, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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