1
|
Rafi’i MR, Ja’afar MH, Abd Wahil MS, Md Hanif SA. Urine manganese, cadmium, lead, arsenic, and selenium among autism spectrum disorder children in Kuala Lumpur. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17660. [PMID: 38974411 PMCID: PMC11227810 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The development of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may stem from exposure to environmental pollutants such as heavy metals. The primary objective of this study is to determine the role of heavy metals of concern such as manganese (Mn), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), arsenic (As), and essential trace element selenium (Se) among ASD children in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Method A total of 155 preschoolers in Kuala Lumpur between the ages 3 to 6 participated in an unmatched case-control study, comprising ASD children (n = 81) recruited from an early intervention program for autism, and 74 children without autism who were recruited from public preschools. Urine samples were collected at home, delivered to the study site, and transported to the environmental lab within 24 hours. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was applied to measure the concentration of heavy metals in the samples. Data were analysed using bivariate statistical tests (Chi-square and T-test) and logistic regression models. Result This study demonstrated that Cd, Pb, and As urine levels were significantly greater in children without autism relative to those affected with ASD (p < 0.05). No significant difference was in the levels of Se (p = 0.659) and Mn (p = 0.875) between children with ASD and the control group. The majority of children in both groups have urine As, Pb, and Cd values lower than 15.1 µg/dL, 1.0 µg/dL, and 1.0 µg/dL, respectively which are the minimal risk values for noncarcinogenic detrimental human health effect due to the heavy metal's exposure . Factors associated with having an ASD child included being a firstborn, male, and higher parental education levels (adjusted odds ratios (aOR) > 1, p < 0.05). Conclusion Preschoolers in this study demonstrated low levels of heavy metals in their urine samples, which was relatively lower in ASD children compared to the healthy matched controls. These findings may arise from the diminished capacity to excrete heavy metals, especially among ASD children, thereby causing further accumulation of heavy metals in the body. These findings, including the factors associated with having an ASD child, may be considered by healthcare professionals involved in child development care, for early ASD detection. Further assessment of heavy metals among ASD children in the country and interventional studies to develop effective methods of addressing exposure to heavy metals will be beneficial for future reference.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Ridzwan Rafi’i
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Hasni Ja’afar
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Shahrol Abd Wahil
- Disease Control Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Wilayah Persekutuan Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Shahrul Azhar Md Hanif
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Jia Z, Zhang H, Lv Y, Yu L, Cui Y, Zhang L, Yang C, Liu H, Zheng T, Xia W, Xu S, Li Y. Intrauterine chromium exposure and cognitive developmental delay: The modifying effect of genetic predisposition. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:174350. [PMID: 38960203 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
There is limited evidence on the effects of intrauterine chromium (Cr) exposure on children's cognitive developmental delay (CDD). Further, little is known about the genetic factors in modifying the association between intrauterine Cr exposure and CDD. The present study involved 2361 mother-child pairs, in which maternal plasma Cr concentrations were assessed, a polygenic risk score for the child was constructed, and the child's cognitive development was evaluated using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development. The risks of CDD conferred by intrauterine Cr exposure in children with different genetic backgrounds were evaluated by logistic regression. The additive interaction between intrauterine Cr exposure and genetic factors was evaluated by calculating the relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI), attributable proportion due to interaction (AP), and synergy index (SI). According to present study, higher intrauterine Cr exposure was significantly associated with increased CDD risk [each unit increase in ln-transformed maternal plasma Cr concentration (ln-Cr): adjusted OR (95 % CI), 1.18 (1.04-1.35); highest vs lowest quartile: adjusted OR (95 % CI), 1.57 (1.10-2.23)]. The dose-response relationship of intrauterine Cr exposure and CDD for children with high genetic risk was more prominent [each unit increased ln-Cr: adjusted OR (95 % CI), 1.36 (1.09-1.70)]. Joint effects between intrauterine Cr exposure and genetic factors were found. Specifically, for high genetic risk carriers, the association between intrauterine Cr exposure and CDD was more evident [highest vs lowest quartile: adjusted OR (95 % CI), 2.33 (1.43-3.80)]. For those children with high intrauterine Cr exposure and high genetic risk, the adjusted AP was 0.39 (95 % CI, 0.07-0.72). Conclusively, intrauterine Cr exposure was a high-risk factor for CDD in children, particularly for those with high genetic risk. Intrauterine Cr exposure and one's adverse genetic background jointly contribute to an increased risk of CDD in children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenxian Jia
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongling Zhang
- Wuchang University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiqing Lv
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Yu
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Cui
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Liping Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenhui Yang
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongxiu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Tongzhang Zheng
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, United States
| | - Wei Xia
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Shunqing Xu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Schrenk D, Bignami M, Bodin L, Chipman JK, del Mazo J, Grasl‐Kraupp B, Hogstrand C, Hoogenboom L(R, Leblanc J, Nebbia CS, Nielsen E, Ntzani E, Petersen A, Sand S, Vleminckx C, Wallace H, Barregård L, Benford D, Broberg K, Dogliotti E, Fletcher T, Rylander L, Abrahantes JC, Gómez Ruiz JÁ, Steinkellner H, Tauriainen T, Schwerdtle T. Update of the risk assessment of inorganic arsenic in food. EFSA J 2024; 22:e8488. [PMID: 38239496 PMCID: PMC10794945 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2024.8488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The European Commission asked EFSA to update its 2009 risk assessment on arsenic in food carrying out a hazard assessment of inorganic arsenic (iAs) and using the revised exposure assessment issued by EFSA in 2021. Epidemiological studies show that the chronic intake of iAs via diet and/or drinking water is associated with increased risk of several adverse outcomes including cancers of the skin, bladder and lung. The CONTAM Panel used the benchmark dose lower confidence limit based on a benchmark response (BMR) of 5% (relative increase of the background incidence after adjustment for confounders, BMDL05) of 0.06 μg iAs/kg bw per day obtained from a study on skin cancer as a Reference Point (RP). Inorganic As is a genotoxic carcinogen with additional epigenetic effects and the CONTAM Panel applied a margin of exposure (MOE) approach for the risk characterisation. In adults, the MOEs are low (range between 2 and 0.4 for mean consumers and between 0.9 and 0.2 at the 95th percentile exposure, respectively) and as such raise a health concern despite the uncertainties.
Collapse
|
4
|
Stojsavljević A, Lakićević N, Pavlović S. Mercury and Autism Spectrum Disorder: Exploring the Link through Comprehensive Review and Meta-Analysis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3344. [PMID: 38137565 PMCID: PMC10741416 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123344] [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: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a non-essential trace metal with unique neurochemical properties and harmful effects on the central nervous system. In this study, we present a comprehensive review and meta-analysis of peer-reviewed research encompassing five crucial clinical matrices: hair, whole blood, plasma, red blood cells (RBCs), and urine. We assess the disparities in Hg levels between gender- and age-matched neurotypical children (controls) and children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (cases). After applying rigorous selection criteria, we incorporated a total of 60 case-control studies into our meta-analysis. These studies comprised 25 investigations of Hg levels in hair (controls/cases: 1134/1361), 15 in whole blood (controls/cases: 1019/1345), 6 in plasma (controls/cases: 224/263), 5 in RBCs (controls/cases: 215/293), and 9 in urine (controls/cases: 399/623). This meta-analysis did not include the data of ASD children who received chelation therapy. Our meta-analysis revealed no statistically significant differences in Hg levels in hair and urine between ASD cases and controls. In whole blood, plasma, and RBCs, Hg levels were significantly higher in ASD cases compared to their neurotypical counterparts. This indicates that ASD children could exhibit reduced detoxification capacity for Hg and impaired mechanisms for Hg excretion from their bodies. This underscores the detrimental role of Hg in ASD and underscores the critical importance of monitoring Hg levels in ASD children, particularly in early childhood. These findings emphasize the pressing need for global initiatives aimed at minimizing Hg exposure, thus highlighting the critical intersection of human-environment interaction and neurodevelopment health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandar Stojsavljević
- Innovative Centre, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Studentski Trg 12–16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Novak Lakićević
- Clinical Centre of Montenegro, Clinic for Neurosurgery, Ljubljanska bb, 81000 Podgorica, Montenegro;
| | - Slađan Pavlović
- Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”—National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia;
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Stojsavljević A, Lakićević N, Pavlović S. Does Lead Have a Connection to Autism? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. TOXICS 2023; 11:753. [PMID: 37755763 PMCID: PMC10536388 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11090753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Environmental pollutants, particularly toxic trace metals with neurotoxic potential, have been related to the genesis of autism. One of these metals that stands out, in particular, is lead (Pb). We conducted an in-depth systematic review and meta-analysis of peer-reviewed studies on Pb levels in biological materials retrieved from autistic children (cases) and neurotypical children (controls) in this work. A systematic review was conducted after the careful selection of published studies according to established criteria to gain a broad insight into the higher or lower levels of Pb in the biological materials of cases and controls, and the findings were then strengthened by a meta-analysis. The meta-analysis included 17 studies (hair), 13 studies (whole blood), and 8 studies (urine). The overall number of controls/cases was 869/915 (hair), 670/755 (whole blood), and 344/373 (urine). This meta-analysis showed significantly higher Pb levels in all three types of biological material in cases than in controls, suggesting a higher body Pb burden in autistic children. Thus, environmental Pb exposure could be related to the genesis of autism. Since no level of Pb can be considered safe, the data from this study undoubtedly point to the importance of regularly monitoring Pb levels in autistic children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandar Stojsavljević
- Innovative Centre, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Studentski Trg 12–16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Novak Lakićević
- Clinical Centre of Montenegro, Clinic for Neurosurgery, Ljubljanska bb, 81000 Podgorica, Montenegro;
| | - Slađan Pavlović
- Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”—National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia;
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ding M, Shi S, Qie S, Li J, Xi X. Association between heavy metals exposure (cadmium, lead, arsenic, mercury) and child autistic disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1169733. [PMID: 37469682 PMCID: PMC10353844 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1169733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Studies have found that toxic heavy metals exposure could induce the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and is of epigenetic effect, which might be associated with the occurrence of Autistic Disorder (ASD). This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to elucidate the association between exposure to 4 heavy metals, cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), arsenic(As), and mercury (Hg), and the occurrence of ASD in children. Methods We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library, from their inception to October 2022, for epidemiological investigations that explore the association between exposure to Cd, Pb, As, or Hg and the occurrence of child ASD. Results A total of 53 studies were included, involving 5,054 individuals aged less than 18 (2,533 ASD patients and 2,521 healthy controls). Compared with the healthy controls, in hair and blood tests, concentrations of the 4 heavy metals were significantly higher in the ASD group than in the healthy control group, and the differences in Pb, arsenic and Hg were statistically significant (P < 0.05). In the urine test, concentrations of arsenic and Hg were significantly higher in the ASD group than in the healthy control group (P < 0.05), while the results of Cd and Pb were opposite to those of arsenic and Hg (P > 0.05). Subgroup analysis for geographic regions showed that ASD patients in Asia and Europe had higher concentrations of the 4 heavy metals, compared with the healthy controls, in which the differences in Pb, arsenic, and Hg were statistically significant (P < 0.05), while in North America, the healthy controls had higher Cd, arsenic, and Hg concentrations (P > 0.05). Conclusion Compared with the healthy control group, the ASD group had higher concentrations of Cd, Pb, arsenic, and Hg. These 4 heavy metals play different roles in the occurrence and progression of ASD. Moreover, there is significant heterogeneity among the included studies due to controversies about the study results among different countries and regions and different sources of detection materials. The results of this study firmly support the policies to limit heavy metals exposure, especially among pregnant women and young children, so as to help reduce the incidence of ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Ding
- Correspondence: Mengmeng Ding Shanshan Shi Shuyan Qie
| | - Shanshan Shi
- Correspondence: Mengmeng Ding Shanshan Shi Shuyan Qie
| | - Shuyan Qie
- Correspondence: Mengmeng Ding Shanshan Shi Shuyan Qie
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ouisselsat M, Maidoumi S, Elmaouaki A, Lekouch N, Pineau A, Sedki A. Hair Trace Elements and Mineral Content in Moroccan Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: a Case-Control Study. Biol Trace Elem Res 2023; 201:2701-2710. [PMID: 35896886 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-022-03365-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) around the world continues to increase while the pathophysiology remains insufficiently elucidated. Genetics, environment, and epigenetic changes are often implicated. Abnormal level in trace elements and minerals is among environmental factors assumed to be involved. The purpose of this article is to assess hair concentrations of toxic and essential elements in children with ASD and children with neurotypical development in the city of Marrakech. Two hundred and twenty-seven children (107 with ASD and 120 controls) aged 3 to 14 years old were recruited. The results of analysis by ICP-MS showed a significant decrease in hair levels of copper, zinc, iron, and selenium (25%, 13%, 17%, 11%) of children with ASD. The most significantly reduced concentrations in children with ASD are that of manganese by 34%. Hair aluminum level was significantly elevated by 29% in ASD compared to controls. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that copper, selenium, and iron content in hair were significantly inversely associated with ASD, similarly, hair aluminum content was significantly associated with ASD. Adjusted model for demographic parameters increased the predictive ability of the model, father's age was a significant predictor. In addition, ASD and gender were significant predictors of hair levels of aluminum, selenium, and manganese.These results support the hypothesis of the disparity of trace elements and minerals levels in children with ASD and highlight the potential interest of micronutrient supplementation in the eventual improvement of ASD symptoms. Future research should explore the pathophysiology of these micronutrient deficiencies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Ouisselsat
- Laboratory of Water, Biodiversity and Climate Change, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences - Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Bd Moulay Abdellah BP, 2390-40001, Marrakech, Morocco.
| | - Sana Maidoumi
- Laboratory of Water, Biodiversity and Climate Change, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences - Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Bd Moulay Abdellah BP, 2390-40001, Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Amal Elmaouaki
- Laboratory of Water, Biodiversity and Climate Change, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences - Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Bd Moulay Abdellah BP, 2390-40001, Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Nadra Lekouch
- Laboratory of Water, Biodiversity and Climate Change, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences - Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Bd Moulay Abdellah BP, 2390-40001, Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Alain Pineau
- Mineral Element Dosing Centre, UFR of Pharmaceutical and Biological Sciences, University of Nantes, 9, rue Bias, 44035 - 44000, Nantes Cedex 1, France
| | - Azeddine Sedki
- Laboratory of Water, Biodiversity and Climate Change, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences - Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Bd Moulay Abdellah BP, 2390-40001, Marrakech, Morocco
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ling W, Zhao G, Wang W, Wang C, Zhang L, Zhang H, Lu D, Ruan S, Zhang A, Liu Q, Jiang J, Jiang G. Metallomic profiling and natural copper isotopic signatures of childhood autism in serum and red blood cells. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 330:138700. [PMID: 37076087 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Excessive exposure to metals directly threatens human health, including neurodeve lopment. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder, leaving great harms to children themselves, their families, and even society. In view of this, it is critical to develop reliable biomarkers for ASD in early childhood. Here we used inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to identify the abnormalities in ASD-associated metal elements in children blood. Multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (MC-ICP-MS) was applied to detect isotopic differences in copper (Cu) for further assessment on account of its core role in the brain. We also developed a machine learning classification method for unknown samples based on a support vector machine (SVM) algorithm. The results indicated significant differences in the blood metallome (chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), cobalt (Co), magnesium (Mg), and arsenic (As)) between cases and controls, and a significantly lower Zn/Cu ratio was observed in the ASD cases. Interestingly, we found a strong association of serum copper isotopic composition (δ65Cu) with autistic serum. SVM was successfully applied to discriminate cases and controls based on the two-dimensional Cu signatures (Cu concentration and δ65Cu) with a high accuracy (94.4%). Overall, our findings revealed a new biomarker for potential early diagnosis and screening of ASD, and the significant alterations in the blood metallome also helped to understand the potential pathogenesis of ASD in terms of metallomics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weibo Ling
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Gang Zhao
- Department of Child Health Care, Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital of Nanshan District, 1 Wanxia Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, 518067, China
| | - Weichao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Chao Wang
- Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Luyao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Huazhou Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Dawei Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China
| | - Shasha Ruan
- Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Aiqian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Qian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; Taishan Institute for Ecology and Environment (TIEE), Jinan, 250100, China.
| | - Jie Jiang
- Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, 518000, China.
| | - Guibin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Nakhaee S, Amirabadizadeh A, Farnia V, Ali Azadi N, Mansouri B, Radmehr F. Association Between Biological Lead Concentrations and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Children: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Biol Trace Elem Res 2023; 201:1567-1581. [PMID: 35499802 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-022-03265-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Studies have been conducted in different countries of the world to illustrate a link between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and lead (Pb) in different specimens such as hair, blood, and urine. Therefore, we carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the association between Pb concentration in biological samples (blood, urine, and hair) and ASD in children through case-control and cross-sectional studies. In this systematic review, PubMed, Web of Sciences, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched for relevant studies from January 2000 to February 2022. A random-effects model was used to pool the results. The effect sizes were standardized mean differences (proxied by Hedges' g) followed by a 95% confidence interval. Pooling data under the random effect model from blood and hair studies showed a significant difference between the children in the ASD group and the control group in blood lead level (Hedges' g: 1.21, 95% CI: 0.33-2.09, P = 0.01) and hair level (Hedges' g: 2.20, 95% CI: 0.56-3.85, P = 0.01). For urine studies, pooling data under the random effect model from eight studies indicated no significant difference between the children in the ASD group and control group in urinary lead level (Hedges' g: - 0.34, 95% CI: - 1.14,0.45, P = 0.40). Moreover, the funnel plot and the results of the Egger test for the blood and urine samples showed no publication bias, while, for the hair samples, the funnel plot illustrated the existence of publication bias.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samaneh Nakhaee
- Medical Toxicology and Drug Abuse Research Center (MTDRC), Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Alireza Amirabadizadeh
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 9717113163, Iran
| | - Vahid Farnia
- Substance Abuse Prevention Research Center, Research Institute for Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Nemam Ali Azadi
- Biostatistics Department, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Borhan Mansouri
- Substance Abuse Prevention Research Center, Research Institute for Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
| | - Farnaz Radmehr
- Substance Abuse Prevention Research Center, Research Institute for Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Liu H, Huang M, Yu X. Blood and hair copper levels in childhood autism spectrum disorder: a meta-analysis based on case-control studies. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2023; 0:reveh-2022-0256. [PMID: 36933002 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2022-0256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The association between copper levels and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been a controversial topic. This study investigated relationship between copper levels and ASD. CONTENT The following databases are searched until April 2022: PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science. Combined effect size standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated with Stata 12.0. In this meta-analysis, 29 case-control studies were included, which included 2,504 children with ASD and 2,419 healthy controls. The copper levels in hair (SMD: -1.16, 95% CI: -1.73 to -0.58) was significantly lower in ASD children than healthy controls. The copper levels in blood (SMD: 0.10, 95% CI: -0.12 to 0.32) not significantly compare ASD with controls. SUMMARY AND OUTLOOK Copper may be associated with the development of ASD in children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hezuo Liu
- Ninghai Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Ning Bo, China
| | - Minhui Huang
- Ninghai Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Ning Bo, China
| | - Xiaomin Yu
- Ninghai Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Ning Bo, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Hegde R, Hegde S, Kulkarni S, Kulkarni SS, Pandurangi A, Kariduraganavar MY, Das KK, Gai PB. Total Reflection X-ray Fluorescence Analysis of Plasma Elements in Autistic Children from India. Biol Trace Elem Res 2023; 201:644-654. [PMID: 35338449 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-022-03199-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Trace elements are essential for the human body's various physiological processes but if they are present in higher concentration, these elements turn to be toxic and cause adverse effect on physiological processes. Similarly, deficiency of these essential elements also affects physiological processes and leads to abnormal metabolic activities. There is a lot of interest in recent years to know the mystery behind the involvement of trace elements in the metabolic activities of autistic children suspecting that it may be a risk factor in the aetiology of autism. The present study aims to analyse the plasma trace elements in autistic children using the total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) technique. Plasma samples from 70 autistic children (mean age: 11.5 ± 3.1) were analysed with 70 age- and sex-matched healthy children as controls (mean age: 12 ± 2.5). TXRF analysis revealed the higher concentration of copper (1227.8 ± 17.8), chromium (7.1 ± 2.5), bromine (2695.1 ± 24) and arsenic (126.3 ± 10) and lower concentration of potassium (440.1 ± 25), iron (1039.6 ± 28), zinc (635.7 ± 21), selenium (52.3 ± 8.5), rubidium (1528.9 ± 28) and molybdenum (162,800.8 ± 14) elements in the plasma of autistic children in comparison to healthy controls. Findings of the first study from India suggest these altered concentrations in elements in autistic children over normal healthy children affect the physiological processes and metabolism. Further studies are needed to clarify the association between the altered element concentration and physiology of autism in the North Karnataka population in India.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rajat Hegde
- Laboratory of Vascular Physiology and Medicine, Department of Physiology, Shri B.M Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, BLDE (Deemed To Be University), Vijayapura, 586101, India
- Karnataka Institute for DNA Research (KIDNAR), Dharwad, 580003, India
| | - Smita Hegde
- Karnataka Institute for DNA Research (KIDNAR), Dharwad, 580003, India
- Human Genetics Laboratory, Department of Anatomy, Shri B.M Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, BLDE (Deemed To Be University), Vijayapura, 586101, India
| | - Sujayendra Kulkarni
- Human Genetics Laboratory, Department of Anatomy, Shri B.M Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, BLDE (Deemed To Be University), Vijayapura, 586101, India
- Division of Human Genetics (Central Research Lab), S. Nijaliangappa Medical College, HSK Hospital and Research Center, Bagalkot, 587102, India
| | | | - Aditya Pandurangi
- Department of Psychiatry, Dharwad Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Dharwad, 580008, India
| | | | - Kusal K Das
- Laboratory of Vascular Physiology and Medicine, Department of Physiology, Shri B.M Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, BLDE (Deemed To Be University), Vijayapura, 586101, India
| | - Pramod B Gai
- Karnataka Institute for DNA Research (KIDNAR), Dharwad, 580003, India.
- Karnatak University Dharwad, Dharwad, 580003, India.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhao G, Liu SJ, Gan XY, Li JR, Wu XX, Liu SY, Jin YS, Zhang KR, Wu HM. Analysis of Whole Blood and Urine Trace Elements in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Autistic Behaviors. Biol Trace Elem Res 2023; 201:627-635. [PMID: 35305538 PMCID: PMC9849157 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-022-03197-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The relationship between trace elements and neurological development is an emerging research focus. We performed a case-control study to explore (1) the differences of 13 trace elements chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), cobalt (Co), zinc (Zn), arsenic (As), selenium (Se), molybdenum (Mo), cadmium (Cd), stannum (Sn), stibium (Sb), mercury (Hg), titanium (TI), and plumbum (Pb) concentration in whole blood and urine between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) children and their typical development peers, and (2) the association between the 13 trace elements and core behaviors of ASD. Thirty ASD subjects (cases) and 30 age-sex-matched healthy subjects from Baise City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, were recruited. Element analysis was carried out by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry. Autistic behaviors were assessed using Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC), Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), and Children Neuropsychological and Behavior Scale (CNBS). The whole blood concentrations of Mo (p = 0.004), Cd (0.007), Sn (p = 0.003), and Pb (p = 0.037) were significantly higher in the ASD cases than in the controls. Moreover, Se (0.393), Hg (0.408), and Mn (- 0.373) concentrations were significantly correlated between whole blood and urine levels in ASD case subjects. There were significant correlations between whole blood Sb (0.406), Tl (0.365), Mo (- 0.4237), Mn (- 0.389), Zn (0.476), and Se (0.375) levels and core behaviors of ASD. Although the mechanism of trace element imbalance in ASD is unclear, these data demonstrate that core behaviors of ASD may be affected by certain trace elements. Further studies are recommended for exploring the mechanism of element imbalance and providing corresponding clinical treatment measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gang Zhao
- Department of Psychiatry, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001 China
- Department of Child Health Care, Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital of Nanshan District, 1 Wanxia Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, 518067 China
| | - Si-jin Liu
- Department of Nursing, Harbin Medical University in Daqing, Daqing, 163319 China
| | - Xin-yu Gan
- Department of Rehabilitation of the Heilongjiang Province Land Reclamation Headquarters General Hospital, Harbin, 150081 China
- Harbin Medical University in Daqing, Daqing, 163319 Heilongjiang China
| | - Jun-ru Li
- Department of Nursing, Harbin Medical University in Daqing, Daqing, 163319 China
| | - Xiao-xue Wu
- Department of Nursing, Harbin Medical University in Daqing, Daqing, 163319 China
| | - Si-yan Liu
- Department of Nursing, Harbin Medical University in Daqing, Daqing, 163319 China
| | - Yi-si Jin
- Department of Rehabilitation, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Daqing, 163000 China
| | - Ke-rang Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001 China
| | - Hong-mei Wu
- Department of Nursing, Harbin Medical University in Daqing, Daqing, 163319 China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Shiani A, Sharafi K, Omer AK, Kiani A, Karamimatin B, Massahi T, Ebrahimzadeh G. A systematic literature review on the association between exposures to toxic elements and an autism spectrum disorder. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 857:159246. [PMID: 36220469 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental illness characterized by difficulties in social communication and repetitive behaviors. There have been many previous studies of toxic metals in ASD. Therefore, the priority of this study is to review the relationships between exposure to toxic metals and ASD. MATERIALS & METHODS This study was based on a comprehensive search of international databases, such as Web of Science, Science Direct, Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar, for all works related to the subject under discussion from 1982 to 2022. We further summarize published data linked to this topic and discuss with clarifying evidence that agrees and conflicts with the association between exposure to toxic metals, including mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), and aluminum (Al) and ASD. RESULTS 40 out of 63 papers met the requirements for meta-analysis. Blood Pb levels (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.81; 95 % confidence interval (CI): 0.36-1.25), blood Hg (SMD = 0.90; CI: 0.30-1.49), hair Pb (SMD = 1.47; CI: 0.03-2.92), urine As (SMD = 0.65; CI: 0.22-1.09), and urine Al levels (SMD = 0.85; CI: 0.40-1.29) in autistic individuals were significantly higher than those of healthy control (HC). Whereas, blood As levels (SMD = 1.33; CI: -1.32-3.97), hair As (SMD = 0.55; CI: -0.14-1.24), hair Cd (SMD = 0.60; CI: -0.31-1.51), hair Hg (SMD = 0.41; CI: -0.30-1.12), hair Al (SMD = 0.87; CI: -0.02-1.77), urine Pb (SMD = -0.68; CI: -2.55-1.20), urine Cd (SMD = -0.26; CI: -0.94-0.41), and urine Hg levels (SMD = 0.47; CI: -0.09-1.04) in autistic individuals were significantly lower than those of HC. CONCLUSION Toxic metal content significantly differed between individuals with ASD and HC in the current meta-analysis. The results assist in clarifying the significance of toxic metals as environmental factors in the development of ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Shiani
- Department of Speech Therapy, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran; Clinical Research Development Center, Taleghani and Imam Ali Hospital, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Kiomars Sharafi
- Research Center for Environmental Determinants of Health (RCEDH), Research Institute for Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
| | - Abdullah Khalid Omer
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran; Razga Company, Kurdistan Region, Iraq.
| | - Amir Kiani
- Regenerative Medicine Research Center (RMRC), Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran; Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Behzad Karamimatin
- Research Center for Environmental Determinants of Health (RCEDH), Research Institute for Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Tooraj Massahi
- Students Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Ebrahimzadeh
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhang J, Lin J, Zhao X, Yao F, Feng C, He Z, Cao X, Gao Y, Khan NU, Chen M, Luo P, Shen L. Trace Element Changes in the Plasma of Autism Spectrum Disorder Children and the Positive Correlation Between Chromium and Vanadium. Biol Trace Elem Res 2022; 200:4924-4935. [PMID: 35006555 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-021-03082-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Existing data demonstrate a significant correlation between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and the status of biologically essential and toxic trace elements. However, there is still a lack of data on the steady state of trace elements in ASD. We performed a case-control study to explore the association between the risk of ASD and 23 trace elements in plasma. The results showed that children with ASD had considerably decreased lithium (Li), manganese (Mn), selenium (Se), barium (Ba), mercury (Hg), and tin (Sn) levels when compared to their age- and sex-matched controls. Meanwhile, children with ASD had considerably increased plasma chromium (Cr) and vanadium (V) concentrations. We also divided each group into subgroups based on age and gender and created element-related networks for each subgroup. We detected significant element correlations within or between subgroups, as well as changes in correlations that included all elements examined. Finally, more element correlations were observed among males, which may open a new avenue for understanding the complicated process behind the sex ratio of children with ASD. Overall, our data revealed a novel relationship between elements and ASD, which may extend current understanding about ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhang
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China
- School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring Control Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Lin
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, 518055, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiying Zhao
- Shenzhen Academy of Metrology and Quality Inspection, Shenzhen, 518055, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Yao
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China
- Brain Disease and Big Data Research Institute, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengyun Feng
- Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Baoan, Shenzhen, 518100, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhijun He
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology and Ecology, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueshan Cao
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Gao
- Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Baoan, Shenzhen, 518100, People's Republic of China
| | - Naseer Ullah Khan
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China
| | - Margy Chen
- Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Peng Luo
- School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring Control Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, People's Republic of China
| | - Liming Shen
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Detoxification Role of Metabolic Glutathione S-Transferase (GST) Genes in Blood Lead Concentrations of Jamaican Children with and without Autism Spectrum Disorder. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13060975. [PMID: 35741737 PMCID: PMC9222697 DOI: 10.3390/genes13060975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Glutathione S-transferases (GST) are involved in the detoxification of exogenous chemicals including lead (Pb). Using data from 344 pairs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) cases and age- and sex-matched typically developing (TD) controls (2−8 years old) from Jamaica, we investigated the interaction between three GST genes and ASD status as determinants of blood Pb concentrations (BPbCs). We found that ASD cases had lower geometric mean BPbCs than TD children (1.74 vs. 2.27 µg/dL, p < 0.01). Using a co-dominant genetic model, ASD cases with the Ile/Val genotype for the GSTP1 Ile105Val polymorphism had lower GM BPbCs than TD controls, after adjusting for a known interaction between GSTP1 and GSTT1, child’s parish, socioeconomic status, consumption of lettuce, fried plantains, and canned fish (Ile/Val: 1.78 vs. 2.13 µg/dL, p = 0.03). Similarly, among carriers of the I/I or I/D (I*) genotype for GSTT1 and GSTM1, ASD cases had lower adjusted GM BPbCs than TD controls (GSTT1 I*: 1.61 vs. 1.91 µg/dL, p = 0.01; GSTM1 I*: 1.71 vs. 2.04 µg/dL, p = 0.01). Our findings suggest that genetic polymorphisms in GST genes may influence detoxification of Pb by the enzymes they encode in Jamaican children with and without ASD.
Collapse
|
16
|
Islam GMR, Rahman MM, Hasan MI, Tadesse AW, Hamadani JD, Hamer DH. Hair, serum and urine chromium levels in children with cognitive defects: A systematic review and meta-analysis of case control studies. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 291:133017. [PMID: 34813844 PMCID: PMC8792285 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.133017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Environmental chromium exposure may cause impaired development of children. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis. Electronic databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and CINAHL were searched to identify case-control studies that reported childhood Cr exposure and cognitive development. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to ensure the quality of the included studies. Cr levels were compared in cases and controls, and a random effect meta-analysis was performed using Stata version 16. Twelve of 61 studies identified in the literature search were eligible for this analysis. Hair, serum and urine Cr measurements were reported by seven, two and one studies, respectively. In addition, one study reported both serum and hair Cr exposure and another reported urine and hair Cr exposure. The pooled standard mean differences (SMD) showed that hair Cr levels were non-significantly lower among children with cognitive defects (-0.01 μg/g, 95% CI: -0.04, 00, p = 0.27). In serum and urine, the pooled SMD was higher in children with cognitive deficits compared with healthy control children (0.32 μg/g, 95% CI: -0.78, 1.42, p = 0.56 and 0.64 μg/g, CI: -0.07,1.36, p = 0.08; respectively). In summary, this systematic review found no significant differences in hair, serum and urine Cr levels between children with cognitive deficits and healthy control children when all study data were pooled in the meta-analysis. Larger studies using standardized criteria and longitudinal assessment of cognitive development are needed to determine whether there is a dose response effect of childhood Cr exposure on cognitive development of children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G M Rabiul Islam
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, USA; Department of Food Engineering and Tea Technology, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh.
| | | | - Mohammed Imrul Hasan
- Maternal and Child Health Division, International Center for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Amare Worku Tadesse
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, SOAS University of London, UK
| | - Jena Derakhshani Hamadani
- Maternal and Child Health Division, International Center for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Davidson H Hamer
- Department of Global Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Błażewicz A, Grywalska E, Macek P, Mertowska P, Mertowski S, Wojnicka J, Durante N, Makarewicz A. Research into the Association of Cadmium and Manganese Excretion with Thyroid Function and Behavioral Areas in Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11030579. [PMID: 35160030 PMCID: PMC8837100 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11030579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Thyroid dysfunction and toxic metal exposure have been linked to the increased risk of autism spectrum disorders (ASD); however, the relationship between those factors remains unclear. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between the serum level of hormones, namely thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (fT3), free thyroxine (fT4), and urinary cadmium (U-Cd) and urinary manganese (U-Mn), in patients with ASD. The study group consisted of 129 adolescents with ASD, and the control group consisted of 86 healthy persons. Ion chromatography with spectrophotometric detection (IC-UV/ViS) was used to quantitatively determine Cd and Mn in all 24-h urine samples. These results indicate that severity of certain symptoms in autism is associated with thyroid function. Correlation analysis between Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) results and the content of both U-Mn and U-Cd as well as fT3, fT4 and TSH values in ASD patients showed significantly positive correlation of CARS7 (visual reaction) with fT3 and fT4 and a negative correlation with TSH for the whole study group. In the group of adolescents over 14 years of age, it was also observed that CARS10 (anxiety reaction) negatively correlates with serum TSH levels, and among younger individuals, CARS9 (near receptor responsiveness, taste, smell) positively correlates with TSH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Błażewicz
- Department of Pathobiochemistry and Interdisciplinary Applications of Ion Chromatography, Medical University of Lublin, 1 Chodźki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.W.); (N.D.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-81448-7300
| | - Ewelina Grywalska
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Medical University of Lublin, 4a Chodźki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (E.G.); (P.M.); (S.M.)
| | - Paweł Macek
- Department of Oncology, Institute of Health Sciences, Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, 25-713 Kielce, Poland;
- Department of Epidemiology and Cancer Control, Holycross Cancer Centre, 25-734 Kielce, Poland
| | - Paulina Mertowska
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Medical University of Lublin, 4a Chodźki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (E.G.); (P.M.); (S.M.)
| | - Sebastian Mertowski
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Medical University of Lublin, 4a Chodźki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (E.G.); (P.M.); (S.M.)
| | - Julia Wojnicka
- Department of Pathobiochemistry and Interdisciplinary Applications of Ion Chromatography, Medical University of Lublin, 1 Chodźki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.W.); (N.D.)
| | - Nicolo Durante
- Department of Pathobiochemistry and Interdisciplinary Applications of Ion Chromatography, Medical University of Lublin, 1 Chodźki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (J.W.); (N.D.)
| | - Agata Makarewicz
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Early Intervention, Medical University of Lublin, 20-439 Lublin, Poland;
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Abd Wahil MS, Ja’afar MH, Md Isa Z. Assessment of Urinary Lead (Pb) and Essential Trace Elements in Autism Spectrum Disorder: a Case-Control Study Among Preschool Children in Malaysia. Biol Trace Elem Res 2022; 200:97-121. [PMID: 33661472 PMCID: PMC7930527 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-021-02654-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) is a heavy metal which is abundant in the environment and known to cause neurotoxicity in children even at minute concentration. However, the trace elements calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) are essential to children due to its protective effect on neurodevelopment. The primary objective of this study was to assess the role of Pb and trace elements in the development of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among preschool children. A total of 81 ASD children and 74 typically developed (TD) children aged between 3 and 6 years participated in the study. Self-administered online questionnaires were completed by the parents. A first-morning urine sample was collected in a sterile polyethene urine container and assayed for Pb, Ca, Mg, Zn and Fe using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Comparisons between groups revealed that the urinary Pb, Mg, Zn and Fe levels in ASD children were significantly lower than TD children. The odds of ASD reduced significantly by 5.0% and 23.0% with an increment of every 1.0 μg/dL urinary Zn and Fe, respectively. Post interaction analysis showed that the odds of ASD reduced significantly by 11.0% and 0.1% with an increment of every 1.0 μg/dL urinary Zn and Pb, respectively. A significantly lower urinary Pb level in ASD children than TD children may be due to their poor detoxifying mechanism. Also, the significantly lower urinary Zn and Fe levels in ASD children may augment the neurotoxic effect of Pb.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Shahrol Abd Wahil
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Hasni Ja’afar
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Zaleha Md Isa
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Wise JP, Young JL, Cai J, Cai L. Current understanding of hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] neurotoxicity and new perspectives. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 158:106877. [PMID: 34547640 PMCID: PMC8694118 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] is a global environmental pollutant that increases risk for several types of cancers and is increasingly being recognized as a neurotoxicant. Traditionally, the brain has been viewed as a largely post-mitotic organ due to its specialized composition of neurons, and consequently, clastogenic effects were not considered in neurotoxicology. Today, we understand the brain is composed of at least eight distinct cell types - most of which continue mitotic activity throughout lifespan. We have learned these dividing cells play essential roles in brain and body health. This review focuses on Cr(VI), a potent clastogen and known human carcinogen, as a potentially neurotoxic agent targeting mitotic cells of the brain. Despite its well-established role as a human carcinogen, Cr(VI) neurotoxicity studies have failed to find a significant link to brain cancers. In the few studies that did find a link, Cr(VI) was identified as a risk for gliomas. Instead, in the human brain, Cr(VI) appears to have more subtle deleterious effects that can impair childhood learning and attention development, olfactory function, social memory, and may contribute to motor neuron diseases. Studies of Cr(VI) neurotoxicity with animal and cell culture models have demonstrated elevated markers of oxidative damage and redox stress, with widespread neurodegeneration. One study showed mice exposed to Cr(VI)-laden tannery effluent exhibited longer periods of aggressive behavior toward an "intruder" mouse and took longer to recognize mice previously encountered, recapitulating the social memory deficits observed in humans. Here we conducted a critical review of the available literature on Cr(VI) neurotoxicity and synthesize the collective observations to thoroughly evaluate Cr(VI) neurotoxicity - much remains to be understood and recognized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John P Wise
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40292, USA; Pediatric Research Institute, The Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40292, USA.
| | - Jamie L Young
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40292, USA; Pediatric Research Institute, The Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
| | - Jun Cai
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40292, USA; Pediatric Research Institute, The Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
| | - Lu Cai
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40292, USA; Pediatric Research Institute, The Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Omotosho IO, Akinade AO, Lagunju IA, Yakubu MA. Oxidative stress indices in ASD children in Sub-Sahara Africa. J Neurodev Disord 2021; 13:50. [PMID: 34666671 PMCID: PMC8524989 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-021-09379-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remains a medical challenge even in the developed world. Although genetics and epigenetic factors have been variously indicted as major causes of the disorder, development of oxidative stress especially in the formative years of children has equally gained prominence as an etiological basis of the disorder. Oxidative stress is characterized by the production of excessive amounts of free radicals, decreased levels of antioxidants with the attendant imbalance in oxidant/antioxidant ratio. This study was designed to determine the levels of essential metals [magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu)] and toxic metal, lead (Pb), and generation of oxidative stress by their abnormal interaction. Method Twenty-five children clinically diagnosed for ASD according to DSM-IV-TR and 25 neuro-typical (NT) children (controls), (aged 5.96 ± 1.40 years and 6.18 ± 2.59 years respectively) were recruited for this study. Essential and toxic metals were analyzed using induction-coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS); oxidative stress markers [malondialdehyde (MDA), total plasma peroxidase (TPP), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC)] were determined using appropriate biochemical methods. Oxidative stress index (OSI) was calculated. Results The levels of TPP and TAC were significantly reduced while MDA was higher in ASD compared to NT. Although OSI was higher in ASD, the difference was not significant. Pb (lead) concentration was significantly increased while Mg, Zn, and Cu levels were reduced significantly in ASD compared to NT. A significant negative correlation between Mg and OSI (r = − 0.438; p = 0.029) was observed in NT. Conclusion Reduction in Zn and Mg levels with a concurrent increase in Pb in children with ASD in this study may be the basis of inadequate TAC manifesting as increased MDA and reduced TPP levels. The attendant imbalance in oxidant/antioxidant ratio may result in abnormality in neuronal transduction leading to the abnormal cognitive and speech functions characteristic of ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Momoh A Yakubu
- Department of Environmental & Interdisciplinary Sciences, Texas Southern University, New Science Building Suite, Houston, TX, 303, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Anashkina AA, Erlykina EI. Molecular Mechanisms of Aberrant Neuroplasticity in Autism Spectrum Disorders (Review). Sovrem Tekhnologii Med 2021; 13:78-91. [PMID: 34513070 PMCID: PMC8353687 DOI: 10.17691/stm2021.13.1.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
This review presents the analysis and systematization of modern data on the molecular mechanisms of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) development. Polyetiology and the multifactorial nature of ASD have been proved. The attempt has been made to jointly review and systematize current hypotheses of ASD pathogenesis at the molecular level from the standpoint of aberrant brain plasticity. The mechanism of glutamate excitotoxicity formation, the effect of imbalance of neuroactive amino acids and their derivatives, neurotransmitters, and hormones on the ASD formation have been considered in detail. The strengths and weaknesses of the proposed hypotheses have been analyzed from the standpoint of evidence-based medicine. The conclusion has been drawn on the leading role of glutamate excitotoxicity as a biochemical mechanism of aberrant neuroplasticity accompanied by oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. The mechanism of aberrant neuroplasticity has also been traced at the critical moments of the nervous system development taking into account the influence of various factors of the internal and external environment. New approaches to searching for ASD molecular markers have been considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A A Anashkina
- Senior Teacher, Department of Biochemistry named after G.Y. Gorodisskaya; Senior Researcher, Central Scientific Research Laboratory, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Square, Nizhny Novgorod, 603005, Russia
| | - E I Erlykina
- Professor, Head of the Department of Biochemistry named after G.Y. Gorodisskaya, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Square, Nizhny Novgorod, 603005, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Zhang J, Li X, Shen L, Khan NU, Zhang X, Chen L, Zhao H, Luo P. Trace elements in children with autism spectrum disorder: A meta-analysis based on case-control studies. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2021; 67:126782. [PMID: 34049201 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2021.126782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common childhood neurodevelopmental disorder that may be related to trace elements. However, reports on the relationship between them are still inconsistent. In this article, we conducted a meta-analysis on this issue. We searched the PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases as of November 15, 2019. A random-effects model was used, and subgroups of studies were analyzed using samples of different measurements. Twenty-two original articles were identified (18 trace elements, including a total of 1014 children with ASD and 999 healthy controls). In autistic children, the overall levels of barium (Ba), mercury (Hg), lithium (Li), and lead (Pb) were higher. There were significant differences in the levels of copper (Cu) in the hair and serum between autistic children and the control group. The levels of Hg, Li, Pb and selenium (Se) in the hair of autistic children were higher than those of healthy children, while the levels of zinc (Zn) in the blood were lower. Excessive exposure to toxic heavy metals and inadequate intake of essential metal elements may be associated with ASD. Preventing excessive exposure to toxic metals and correcting poor dietary behaviors may be beneficial for the prevention and treatment of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhang
- School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring Control Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, 550025, PR China
| | - Xi Li
- School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring Control Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, 550025, PR China
| | - Liming Shen
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, PR China; Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, 518055, PR China.
| | - Naseer Ullah Khan
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, PR China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring Control Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, 550025, PR China
| | - Lulu Chen
- School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring Control Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, 550025, PR China
| | - Huan Zhao
- School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring Control Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, 550025, PR China
| | - Peng Luo
- School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring Control Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, 550025, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550014, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Rashaid AHB, Nusair SD, Alqhazo MT, Adams JB, Abu-Dalo MA, Bashtawi MA. Heavy metals and trace elements in scalp hair samples of children with severe autism spectrum disorder: A case-control study on Jordanian children. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2021; 67:126790. [PMID: 34022568 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2021.126790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elemental analysis has been increasingly used for biomonitoring heavy metals and trace elements. METHODS This study monitored the levels of two heavy metals (Al and Pb), and seven trace elements (Macroelements Mg, K, P and Ca; Microelements Zn, Cu, Fe) in scalp hair of 57 children with severe autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and 50 age-matched controls, using Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrophotometry (ICP-AES). RESULTS Compared to controls, significantly higher levels of Al (p = 0.001), Pb (p = 0.001) and K (p = 0.021), with lower levels of Mg and Zn (p = 0.038) were observed for the ASD group. ASD boys had higher levels of Al (p = 0.001), Pb (p = 0.001) and K (p = 0.017) than control boys, while ASD girls had higher Pb levels (p = 0.005) than control girls. The ASD subgroup exposed to passive smokers had higher levels of Al (p = 0.033) and Pb (p = 0.001, and the ASD subgroup not exposed to passive smoke had higher levels of Al (p = 0.011), Pb (p = 0.001), K (p = 0.003); and lower levels of Mg (p = 0.011) than their controls. Other confounding factors and the correlation between these elements were also investigated. CONCLUSION This data suggests that exposure to Al and Pb, increase intake of K, and decreased intake of magnesium and zinc, may contribute to ASD etiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayat Hussein B Rashaid
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Arts, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan.
| | - Shreen Deeb Nusair
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Mazin Taha Alqhazo
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Applied Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | | | - Muna Ahmed Abu-Dalo
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Arts, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Mahmoud Ahmad Bashtawi
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Baj J, Flieger W, Flieger M, Forma A, Sitarz E, Skórzyńska-Dziduszko K, Grochowski C, Maciejewski R, Karakuła-Juchnowicz H. Autism spectrum disorder: Trace elements imbalances and the pathogenesis and severity of autistic symptoms. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 129:117-132. [PMID: 34339708 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The identification of biomarkers as diagnostic tools and predictors of response to treatment of neurological developmental disorders (NDD) such as schizophrenia (SZ), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), still remains an important challenge for clinical medicine. Metallomic profiles of ASD patients cover, besides essential elements such as cobalt, chromium, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, zinc, selenium, also toxic metals burden of: aluminum, arsenic, mercury, lead, beryllium, nickel, cadmium. Performed studies indicate that children with ASD present a reduced ability of eliminating toxic metals, which leads to these metals' accumulation and aggravation of autistic symptoms. Extensive metallomic studies allow a better understanding of the importance of trace elements as environmental factors in the pathogenesis of ASD. Even though a mineral imbalance is a fact in ASD, we are still expecting relevant tests and the elaboration of reference levels of trace elements as potential biomarkers useful in diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacek Baj
- Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego Street 8b, 20-400, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Wojciech Flieger
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Aleje Racławickie 1, 20-059, Lublin, Poland
| | - Michał Flieger
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Aleje Racławickie 1, 20-059, Lublin, Poland
| | - Alicja Forma
- Chair and Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego Street 8b, 20-090, Lublin, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Sitarz
- Chair and 1st Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Early Intervention, Medical University of Lublin, Gluska Street 1, 20-439, Lublin, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Skórzyńska-Dziduszko
- Chair and Department of Human Physiology, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwillowska Street 11, Lublin, 20-080, Poland
| | - Cezary Grochowski
- Laboratory of Virtual Man, Chair of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego Street 8b, 20-400, Lublin, Poland
| | - Ryszard Maciejewski
- Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego Street 8b, 20-400, Lublin, Poland
| | - Hanna Karakuła-Juchnowicz
- Chair and 1st Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Early Intervention, Medical University of Lublin, Gluska Street 1, 20-439, Lublin, Poland; Department of Clinical Neuropsychiatry, Medical University of Lublin, Gluska Street 1, 20-439, Lublin, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Kilonzo VW, Sasuclark AR, Torres DJ, Coyle C, Pilat JM, Williams CS, Pitts MW. Juvenile Selenium Deficiency Impairs Cognition, Sensorimotor Gating, and Energy Homeostasis in Mice. Front Nutr 2021; 8:667587. [PMID: 34026810 PMCID: PMC8138326 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2021.667587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient of critical importance to mammalian life. Its biological effects are primarily mediated via co-translational incorporation into selenoproteins, as the unique amino acid, selenocysteine. These proteins play fundamental roles in redox signaling and includes the glutathione peroxidases and thioredoxin reductases. Environmental distribution of Se varies considerably worldwide, with concomitant effects on Se status in humans and animals. Dietary Se intake within a narrow range optimizes the activity of Se-dependent antioxidant enzymes, whereas both Se-deficiency and Se-excess can adversely impact health. Se-deficiency affects a significant proportion of the world's population, with hypothyroidism, cardiomyopathy, reduced immunity, and impaired cognition being common symptoms. Although relatively less prevalent, Se-excess can also have detrimental consequences and has been implicated in promoting both metabolic and neurodegenerative disease in humans. Herein, we sought to comprehensively assess the developmental effects of both Se-deficiency and Se-excess on a battery of neurobehavioral and metabolic tests in mice. Se-deficiency elicited deficits in cognition, altered sensorimotor gating, and increased adiposity, while Se-excess was surprisingly beneficial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor W. Kilonzo
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Alexandru R. Sasuclark
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Daniel J. Torres
- Pacific Biosciences Research Center, University of Hawaii at Manoa, School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Celine Coyle
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Jennifer M. Pilat
- Department of Medicine and Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Christopher S. Williams
- Department of Medicine and Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Matthew W. Pitts
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, United States
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Naderi M, Puar P, Zonouzi-Marand M, Chivers DP, Niyogi S, Kwong RWM. A comprehensive review on the neuropathophysiology of selenium. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 767:144329. [PMID: 33445002 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.144329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
As an essential micronutrient, selenium (Se) exerts its biological function as a catalytic entity in a variety of enzymes. From a toxicological perspective, however, Se can become extremely toxic at concentrations slightly above its nutritional levels. Over the last few decades, there has been a growing level of concern worldwide regarding the adverse effects of both inorganic and organic Se compounds on a broad spectrum of neurological functions. A wealth of evidence has shown that exposure to excess Se may compromise the normal functioning of various key proteins, neurotransmitter systems (the glutamatergic, dopaminergic, serotonergic, and cholinergic systems), and signaling molecules involved in the control and regulation of cognitive, behavioral, and neuroendocrine functions. Elevated Se exposure has also been suspected to be a risk factor for the development of several neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases. Nonetheless, despite the various deleterious effects of excess Se on the central nervous system (CNS), Se neurotoxicity and negative behavioral outcomes are still disregarded at the expense of its beneficial health effects. This review focuses on the current state of knowledge regarding the neurobehavioral effects of Se and discusses its potential mode of action on different aspects of the central and peripheral nervous systems. This review also provides a brief history of Se discovery and uses, its physicochemical properties, biological roles in the CNS, environmental occurrence, and toxicity. We also review potential links between exposure to different forms of Se compounds and aberrant neurobehavioral functions in humans and animals, and identify key knowledge gaps and hypotheses for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Naderi
- Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada.
| | - Pankaj Puar
- Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
| | | | - Douglas P Chivers
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, 112 Science Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E2, Canada
| | - Som Niyogi
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, 112 Science Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E2, Canada; Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B3, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Kaur I, Behl T, Aleya L, Rahman MH, Kumar A, Arora S, Akter R. Role of metallic pollutants in neurodegeneration: effects of aluminum, lead, mercury, and arsenic in mediating brain impairment events and autism spectrum disorder. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:8989-9001. [PMID: 33447979 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-12255-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder of the brain characterized by shortfall in the social portfolio of an individual and abbreviated interactive and communication aspects rendering stereotypical behavior and pitfalls in a child's memory, thinking, and learning capabilities. The incidence of ASD has accelerated since the past decade, portraying environment as one of the primary assets, comprising of metallic components aiming to curb the neurodevelopmental pathways in an individual. Many regulations like Clean Air Act and critical steps taken by countries all over the globe, like Sweden and the USA, have rendered the necessity to study the effects of environmental metallic components on ASD progression. The review focuses on the primary metallic components present in the environment (aluminum, lead, mercury, and arsenic), responsible for accelerating ASD symptoms by a set of general mechanisms like oxidative stress reduction, glycolysis suppression, microglial activation, and metalloprotein disruption, resulting in apoptotic signaling, neurotoxic effects, and neuroinflammatory responses. The effect of these metals can be retarded by certain protective strategies like chelation, dietary correction, certain agents (curcumin, mangiferin, selenium), and detoxification enhancement, which can necessarily halt the neurodegenerative effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ishnoor Kaur
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, India
| | - Tapan Behl
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, India.
| | - Lotfi Aleya
- Chrono-Environnement Laboratory, UMR CNRS 6249, Bourgogne Franche-Comté University, Paris, France
| | - Md Habibur Rahman
- Department of Global Medical Science, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Pharmacy, Southeast University, Banani, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Arun Kumar
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, India
| | - Sandeep Arora
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, India
| | - Rokeya Akter
- Department of Global Medical Science, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Behl S, Mehta S, Pandey MK. Abnormal Levels of Metal Micronutrients and Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Perspective Review. Front Mol Neurosci 2020; 13:586209. [PMID: 33362464 PMCID: PMC7759187 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.586209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present review is to summarize the prevalence of abnormal levels of various metal micronutrients including copper (Cu), iron (Fe), magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn), and selenium (Se) in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) using hair, nail and serum samples. A correlation of selected abnormal metal ions with known neurodevelopmental processes using Gene Ontology (GO) term was also conducted. Data included in this review are derived from ASD clinical studies performed globally. Metal ion disparity data is also analyzed and discussed based on gender (Male/Female) to establish any gender dependent correlation. Finally, a rational perspective and possible path to better understand the role of metal micronutrients in ASD is suggested.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Supriya Behl
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Sunil Mehta
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Mukesh K Pandey
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Chehbani F, Gallello G, Brahim T, Ouanes S, Douki W, Gaddour N, Cervera Sanz ML. The status of chemical elements in the blood plasma of children with autism spectrum disorder in Tunisia: a case-control study. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:35738-35749. [PMID: 32601867 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-09819-5] [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: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of neurodevelopmental disorders defined by a deficit in social interactions and the presence of restricted and stereotypical behaviors or interests. The etiologies of autism remain mostly unknown. Many genetic and environmental factors have been suspected. Among these environmental factors, exposure to several chemical elements has been previously studied. The purpose of this study was to compare the levels of trace elements in the blood plasma of children with ASD with typically developed children (TDC). The participants in this study consisted of 89 children with ASD (14 girls and 74 boys) and 70 TD children (29 girls and 41 boys). The levels of 33 chemical elements have been analyzed by inductively coupled plasma spectrometry (ICP-MS). We detected significant differences in the levels of eight elements between the two groups, among which there were three rare earth elements (REEs): Eu, Pr, and Sc (p = 0.000, p = 0.023, and p < 0.001 respectively); four heavy metals: Bi, Tl, Ti, and V (p = 0.004, p < 0.001, p = 0.001, and p = 0.001 respectively); and one essential element: Cu (p = 0.043). Children with ASD had higher levels of Er, Pr, Sc, Bi, Tl, Ti, and V, and lower levels of Cu in comparison with the TD group. The children exposed to passive smoking had lower levels of lead (Pb) compared with children without exposure (p = 0.018). Four elements (Cr, Er, Dy, and Pr) were negatively correlated to the severity of ASD. The level of Cu was significantly associated with autistic children's behavior (p = 0.014). These results suggest that children with ASD might have abnormal plasma levels of certain chemical elements (including Er, Pr, Sc, Bi, Tl, Ti, and V, and Cu), and some of these elements might be associated with certain clinical features.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fethia Chehbani
- Department of Psychiatry, Research Laboratory "Vulnerability to Psychotic Disorders LR 05 ES 10", Monastir University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia.
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia.
| | - Gianni Gallello
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Prehistory, Archaeology and Ancient History, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Takoua Brahim
- Unite of Child psychiatry, Monastir University Hospital, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Sami Ouanes
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Wahiba Douki
- Department of Psychiatry, Research Laboratory "Vulnerability to Psychotic Disorders LR 05 ES 10", Monastir University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
- Biochemistry-Toxicology Laboratory, University Hospital of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Naoufel Gaddour
- Unite of Child psychiatry, Monastir University Hospital, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Sulaiman R, Wang M, Ren X. Exposure to Aluminum, Cadmium, and Mercury and Autism Spectrum Disorder in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Chem Res Toxicol 2020; 33:2699-2718. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.0c00167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rosalind Sulaiman
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Health Professions, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York 14214, United States
| | - Meng Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Health Professions, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York 14214, United States
- Research and Education in Energy, Environment and Water Institute, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York 14260, United States
| | - Xuefeng Ren
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Health Professions, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York 14214, United States
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Biomedical Sciences, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York 14214, United States
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Tinkov AA, Mazaletskaya AL, Ajsuvakova OP, Bjørklund G, Huang PT, Chernova LN, Skalny AA, Skalny AV. ICP-MS Assessment of Hair Essential Trace Elements and Minerals in Russian Preschool and Primary School Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Biol Trace Elem Res 2020; 196:400-409. [PMID: 31691190 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-019-01947-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to investigate the relationship between hair essential trace element and mineral content and ADHD in preschool (4-6 years old) and primary school children (6-10 years old) in relation to age and gender. Hair essential trace element and mineral content in 90 Russian children with ADHD and 90 age- and gender-matched neurotypical controls were assessed using inductively coupled plasma mass-spectrometry after microwave digestion. The obtained data demonstrate that hair Co, Cu, Mn, Si, and Zn contents in ADHD children was significantly reduced by 18%, 10%, 27%, 16%, and 19% as compared to the control values, respectively. The most significant decrease in children with ADHD was observed for hair Mg levels, being 29% lower than those in neurotypical children. After adjustment for age and gender, the observed difference in hair element content was more characteristic for preschool children and girls, respectively. Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated that in a crude model (hair element levels as predictors), only hair Zn content was significantly inversely associated with ADHD (β = - 0.169; p = 0.025). Adjustment for anthropometric parameters (model 2) did not increase the predictive ability of the model, although it improved the association between hair Zn and ADHD in children (β = - 0.194; p = 0.014). Hypothetically, the observed alterations may at least partially contribute to neurobehavioral disturbances in children with ADHD. Moreover, the results of the present study raise the question about the potential benefits of Zn and Mg supplementation in children with ADHD. However, further detailed studies are required to investigate micronutrient deficiencies in ADHD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexey A Tinkov
- Yaroslavl State University, Yaroslavl, Russia, 150003.
- IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia, 119146.
- RUDN University, Moscow, Russia.
| | | | - Olga P Ajsuvakova
- Yaroslavl State University, Yaroslavl, Russia, 150003
- IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia, 119146
- RUDN University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine, Mo i Rana, Norway
| | | | | | - Andrey A Skalny
- Yaroslavl State University, Yaroslavl, Russia, 150003
- RUDN University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Anatoly V Skalny
- IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia, 119146
- RUDN University, Moscow, Russia
- Federal Scientific Center of Biological Systems and Agrotechnologies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Orenburg, Russia, 460000
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Skalny AV, Mazaletskaya AL, Ajsuvakova OP, Bjørklund G, Skalnaya MG, Notova SV, Chernova LN, Skalny AA, Burtseva TI, Tinkov AA. Hair trace element concentrations in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). J Trace Elem Med Biol 2020; 61:126539. [PMID: 32438295 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2020.126539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The existing data demonstrate that alteration of trace element and mineral status in children with neurodevelopmental disorders including ASD and ADHD. However, comparative analysis of the specific patterns of trace element and mineral metabolism in children with ASD and ADHD was not performed. Therefore, the primary objective of the present study was to assess hair trace element and mineral levels in boys with ADHD, ASD, as well as ADHD with ASD. METHODS Boys with ADHD (n = 52), ASD (n = 53), both ADHD and ASD (n = 52), as well as neurotypical controls (n = 52) were examined. Hair analysis was performed using inductively-coupled plasma mass-spectrometry. RESULTS The obtained data demonstrate that hair Co, Mg, Mn, and V levels were significantly reduced in children with ADHD and ASD, and especially in boys with ADHD + ASD. Hair Zn was found to be reduced by 20% (p = 0.009) only in children with ADHD + ASD as compared to healthy controls. Factor analysis demonstrated that ASD was associated with significant alteration of hair Co, Fe, Mg, Mn, and V levels, whereas impaired hair Mg, Mn, and Zn content was also significantly associated with ADHD. In regression models hair Zn and Mg were negatively associated with severity of neurodevelopmental disorders. The revealed similarity of trace element and mineral disturbances in ASD and ADHD may be indicative of certain similar pathogenetic features. CONCLUSION The obtained data support the hypothesis that trace elements and minerals, namely Mg, Mn, and Zn, may play a significant role in development of both ADHD and ASD. Improvement of Mg, Mn, and Zn status in children with ASD and ADHD may be considered as a nutritional strategy for improvement of neurodevelopmental disturbances, although clinical trials and experimental studies are highly required to support this hypothesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anatoly V Skalny
- Yaroslavl State University, Sovetskaya St., 14, 150003, Yaroslavl, Russia; IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Bolshaya Pirogovskaya St., 9, 119146, Moscow, Russia; RUDN University, Miklukho-Maklaya St., 6, 117198, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Olga P Ajsuvakova
- Yaroslavl State University, Sovetskaya St., 14, 150003, Yaroslavl, Russia; IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Bolshaya Pirogovskaya St., 9, 119146, Moscow, Russia; RUDN University, Miklukho-Maklaya St., 6, 117198, Moscow, Russia
| | - Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine, 8602, Mo i Rana, Norway
| | - Margarita G Skalnaya
- IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Bolshaya Pirogovskaya St., 9, 119146, Moscow, Russia; RUDN University, Miklukho-Maklaya St., 6, 117198, Moscow, Russia
| | - Svetlana V Notova
- IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Bolshaya Pirogovskaya St., 9, 119146, Moscow, Russia; Federal Research Centre of Biological Systems and Agro-technologies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 9 Yanvarya St., 29, 460000, Orenburg, Russia
| | | | - Andrey A Skalny
- Yaroslavl State University, Sovetskaya St., 14, 150003, Yaroslavl, Russia; RUDN University, Miklukho-Maklaya St., 6, 117198, Moscow, Russia
| | - Tatiana I Burtseva
- IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Bolshaya Pirogovskaya St., 9, 119146, Moscow, Russia; Orenburg State University, Pobedy Ave., 46, 460000, Orenburg, Russia
| | - Alexey A Tinkov
- Yaroslavl State University, Sovetskaya St., 14, 150003, Yaroslavl, Russia; IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Bolshaya Pirogovskaya St., 9, 119146, Moscow, Russia; RUDN University, Miklukho-Maklaya St., 6, 117198, Moscow, Russia.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Fiłon J, Ustymowicz-Farbiszewska J, Krajewska-Kułak E. Analysis of lead, arsenic and calcium content in the hair of children with autism spectrum disorder. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:383. [PMID: 32204706 PMCID: PMC7092413 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-08496-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Explanation of the pathogenesis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is one of the most significant challenges for scientists today. It is believed that a major pathogenetic factor of this condition is epigenetic changes caused by environmental factors, including toxic metals (cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), aluminium (Al), and arsenic (As)). The nervous system may also be affected by deficiencies of both micro- and macroelements (e.g. calcium (Ca), zinc (Zn)). The aim of the study was to analyze the concentrations of Pb, As, and Ca in the hair of children with ASD and a control group. METHODS The materials for the study comprised hair samples collected from 30 children diagnosed with ASD (case group) and 30 children randomly selected from the general population of Bialystok and surrounding region (control group). Concentrations of Pb, As, and Ca were tested with electron microscopy scanning method. Next, the content of the analyzed elements in the hair was assessed as well as their impact on autism development in the children and the mutual interactions between them. The obtained results were statistically analyzed with Statistica PL 12.5., using the Mann-Whitney U test, and Spearman correlation coefficient. RESULTS Mean Ca level in the hair of the case group was lower than the mean level of this element in the control group. Mean As and Pb concentration in the hair of children with ASD was statistically significantly higher than the mean concentration of this element in the hair of children without neurological disorders. Statistically insignificant weak positive correlations between Ca and As content and negative between Ca and Pb in the hair of children from the case group were noted. Also, statistically significant mean positive correlations between Pb and As were observed. CONCLUSIONS In this small study, according to the observations, children diagnosed with ASD suffer from Ca deficiency and toxic metal overload (As and Pb). These abnormalities may play the main role, as an environmental factor, in the pathogenesis of the analyzed disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Fiłon
- Department of Integrated Medical Care, Medical University of Bialystok, Marii Sklodowskiej-Curie 7A, 15-096 Bialystok, Poland
| | | | - Elżbieta Krajewska-Kułak
- Department of Integrated Medical Care, Medical University of Bialystok, Marii Sklodowskiej-Curie 7A, 15-096 Bialystok, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Skalny AV, Mazaletskaya AL, Ajsuvakova OP, Bjørklund G, Skalnaya MG, Chao JCJ, Chernova LN, Shakieva RA, Kopylov PY, Skalny AA, Tinkov AA. Serum zinc, copper, zinc-to-copper ratio, and other essential elements and minerals in children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). J Trace Elem Med Biol 2020; 58:126445. [PMID: 31869738 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2019.126445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Essential trace elements and minerals play a significant role in neurodevelopment. Although certain studies demonstrated impaired essential trace element and mineral status in children with ADHD, the existing data are insufficient. The objective of the present study was to assess serum trace element and mineral levels in children with ADHD. METHODS Serum trace element and mineral levels in 68 children with ADHD and 68 neurotypical controls were assessed using ICP-MS at NexION 300D (PerkinElmer Inc., USA) equipped with ESI SC-2 DX4 autosampler (Elemental Scientific Inc., USA). RESULTS Serum Cr, Mg, and Zn levels in children with ADHD were 21 % (p = 0.010), 4 % (p = 0.005), and 7 % (p = 0. 001) lower as compared to the healthy controls, respectively. In turn, serum Cu/Zn values were 11 % higher than those in the control group. Age and gender had a significant impact on serum element levels in ADHD. Particularly, preschool children were characterized by significantly increased Cu (+8 %; p = 0.034), and Cu/Zn (+19 %; p < 0.001) values, whereas serum Zn (-9 %; p = 0.004) level was decreased. In primary school-aged children only 6 % (p = 0.007) lower Mg levels were observed. Both boys and girls with ADHD were characterized by 8 % (p = 0.016) lower serum Zn levels and 10 % (p = 0.049) higher Cu/Zn values when compared to neurotypical girls. Boys with ADHD also had significantly higher Cu/Zn, exceeding the respective control values by 12 % (p = 0.021), predominantly due to a 7 % (p = 0.035) decrease in serum Zn. Serum Mg levels were also found to be significantly lower than those in neurotypical children by 5 % (p = 0.007). In adjusted regression models serum Cr (β=-0.234; p = 0.009) and Cu/Zn (β = 0.245; p = 0.029) values were significantly associated with ADHD, respectively. Two-way ANOVA revealed a significant impact of ADHD on Cr, Mg, Zn, and Cu/Zn, whereas age was associated with Cu, I, Mg, Mo, and Cu/Zn, whereas gender accounted only for variability in serum Mn levels. Principal component analysis (PCA) also revealed significant contributions of Mg, Zn, and Cu/Zn values to ADHD variability. CONCLUSIONS Hypothetically, the observed decrease of essential trace elements, namely Mg and Zn, and elevation of Cu/Zn may significantly contribute to the risk of ADHD or its severity and/or comorbidity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anatoly V Skalny
- Yaroslavl State University, 150003, Yaroslavl, Russia; IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119146, Moscow, Russia; RUDN University, Moscow, Russia; Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Olga P Ajsuvakova
- Yaroslavl State University, 150003, Yaroslavl, Russia; IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119146, Moscow, Russia
| | - Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine, Mo I Rana, Norway
| | - Margarita G Skalnaya
- IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119146, Moscow, Russia; RUDN University, Moscow, Russia
| | | | | | | | - Philippe Yu Kopylov
- IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119146, Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrey A Skalny
- Yaroslavl State University, 150003, Yaroslavl, Russia; RUDN University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexey A Tinkov
- Yaroslavl State University, 150003, Yaroslavl, Russia; IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119146, Moscow, Russia.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Arsenic Toxicity: Molecular Targets and Therapeutic Agents. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10020235. [PMID: 32033229 PMCID: PMC7072575 DOI: 10.3390/biom10020235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
High arsenic (As) levels in food and drinking water, or under some occupational conditions, can precipitate chronic toxicity and in some cases cancer. Millions of people are exposed to unacceptable amounts of As through drinking water and food. Highly exposed individuals may develop acute, subacute, or chronic signs of poisoning, characterized by skin lesions, cardiovascular symptoms, and in some cases, multi-organ failure. Inorganic arsenite(III) and organic arsenicals with the general formula R-As2+ are bound tightly to thiol groups, particularly to vicinal dithiols such as dihydrolipoic acid (DHLA), which together with some seleno-enzymes constitute vulnerable targets for the toxic action of As. In addition, R-As2+-compounds have even higher affinity to selenol groups, e.g., in thioredoxin reductase that also possesses a thiol group vicinal to the selenol. Inhibition of this and other ROS scavenging seleno-enzymes explain the oxidative stress associated with arsenic poisoning. The development of chelating agents, such as the dithiols BAL (dimercaptopropanol), DMPS (dimercapto-propanesulfonate) and DMSA (dimercaptosuccinic acid), took advantage of the fact that As had high affinity towards vicinal dithiols. Primary prevention by reducing exposure of the millions of people exposed to unacceptable As levels should be the prioritized strategy. However, in acute and subacute and even some cases with chronic As poisonings chelation treatment with therapeutic dithiols, in particular DMPS appears promising as regards alleviation of symptoms. In acute cases, initial treatment with BAL combined with DMPS should be considered.
Collapse
|
36
|
Tsai MS, Chen MH, Lin CC, Liu CY, Chen PC. Children's environmental health based on birth cohort studies of Asia (2) - air pollution, pesticides, and heavy metals. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 179:108754. [PMID: 31563033 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.108754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Revised: 06/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The life style and child raising environment in Asia are quite different compared with Western countries. Besides, the children's environmental threats and difficulties in conducting studies could be different. To address children's environmental health in Asia area, the Birth Cohort Consortium of Asia (BiCCA) was co-established in 2011. We reviewed the mercury, polychlorinated biphenyls, perfluoroalkyl substances, phthalates, and environmental tobacco smoke in pervious based on birth cohort studies in Asia. The aim of this study was to summarize the traditional environmental pollution and the target subjects were also based on the birth cohort in Asia area. Environmental pollutants included air pollutants, pesticides focusing on organochlorine pesticides, diakylphosphates, and pyrethroid, and heavy metals including lead, arsenic, cadmium, manganese, vanadium, and thallium. Fetal growth and pregnancy outcomes, childhood growth and obesity, neurodevelopment and behavioral problems, and allergic disease and immune function were classified to elucidate the children's health effects. In total, 106 studies were selected in this study. The evidences showed air pollution or pesticides may affect growth during infancy or childhood, and associated with neurodevelopmental or behavioral problems. Prenatal exposure to lead or manganese was associated with neurodevelopmental or behavioral problems, while exposure to arsenic or cadmium may influence fetal growth. In addition to the harmonization and international collaboration of birth cohorts in Asia; however, understand the whole picture of exposure scenario and consider more discipline in the research are necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Shan Tsai
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, National Taiwan University College of Public Health, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Huei Chen
- Institute of Population Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan; Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Chun Lin
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, National Taiwan University College of Public Health, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Yu Liu
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, National Taiwan University College of Public Health, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Pau-Chung Chen
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, National Taiwan University College of Public Health, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Public Health, National Taiwan University, College of Public Health, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University, College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Office of Occupational Safety and Health, National Taiwan University College of Medicine and Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Innovation and Policy Center for Population Health and Sustainable Environment, National Taiwan University, College of Public Health, Taipei, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Wang M, Hossain F, Sulaiman R, Ren X. Exposure to Inorganic Arsenic and Lead and Autism Spectrum Disorder in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Chem Res Toxicol 2019; 32:1904-1919. [PMID: 31549506 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.9b00134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Inorganic arsenic (iAs) and lead (Pb) rank first and second on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's priority list of hazardous substances. Both are known neurotoxic metals that cause detrimental effects on brain development and lead to deficits in cognitive function and behavioral performance in children. Studies have indicated a potential link between iAs and Pb exposure and a higher risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). To provide further insight into whether developmental exposure to iAs or Pb is associated with ASD, we conducted a systematic review and combined data into a meta-analysis to evaluate the available human evidence on the relationships. We systematically reviewed relevant studies published through December 30, 2018 and identified 14 studies on iAs and 37 studies on Pb exposure and their respective associations with ASD. Among them, 8 (53.3%) and 19 (51.3%) studies reported a positive association for iAs and Pb, respectively, and none reported a sole inverse association. In the following meta-analysis, we found statistically significant higher iAs concentrations, in hair and in blood, for children diagnosed with ASD compared with controls across studies. However, the findings on Pb exposure were inconsistent, with a significant association for hair Pb, no association for urinary Pb, and an inverse association for blood Pb. After considering strengths and limitations of the body of research, we concluded that there is consistent evidence supporting a positive association between early life iAs exposure and diagnosis of ASD and inconsistent evidence for Pb exposure and ASD risk. We believe it is in the best interest of policy makers and the public to reduce exposures to iAs and Pb among pregnant women and children. Further, our research supports the need for large perspective human studies with accurate measurement and determination of the long-term body burden of iAs and Pb exposures to assess the impact of iAs and Pb exposures on ASD risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- Research and Education in Energy, Environment and Water Institute , University at Buffalo , Buffalo , New York 14260 , United States
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Guo BQ, Li HB, Liu YY. Association between hair lead levels and autism spectrum disorder in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychiatry Res 2019; 276:239-249. [PMID: 31121530 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2019.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
A number of studies measured lead levels in hair from children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to detect the relationship between cumulated lead exposure and the development of ASD, but results are inconsistent. We aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis using the published studies to explore the actual association of hair lead levels with ASD in children. We searched PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Library databases (up to December 11, 2018). The random-effects model was applied to summarize effect sizes. Subgroup and meta-regression analyses were performed simultaneously. Twenty eligible studies involving 1787 participants (941 autistic children and 846 healthy subjects) were included. Our results of primary analysis showed that there were no statistically significant differences in the levels of hair lead between children with ASD and healthy individuals (Hedges's g = 0.251; 95% confidence interval: -0.121, 0.623; P = 0.187). We identified 2 sources of between-study heterogeneity: analytical technology and the sample size of patients. Additionally, no publication bias was observed in this meta-analysis. In conclusion, this study does not support the association of hair lead levels with ASD in children, and the involvement of cumulated lead exposure in the occurrence of ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bao-Qiang Guo
- Department of Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Xinxiang Medical University, 601 Jinsui Road, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, China.
| | - Hong-Bin Li
- Department of Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Xinxiang Medical University, 601 Jinsui Road, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, China
| | - Ying-Ying Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollutants and Health Effects Assessment, School of Public Health, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Concentration of Zinc, Copper, Selenium, Manganese, and Cu/Zn Ratio in Hair of Children and Adolescents with Myopia. J Ophthalmol 2019; 2019:5643848. [PMID: 31143472 PMCID: PMC6481019 DOI: 10.1155/2019/5643848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Revised: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this work was to determine the concentration of trace elements, zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, and Cu/Zn ratio, in scalp hair samples of children and adolescents with myopia. The study included 92 children (mean age 14.5 ± 2.5 years) with myopia and 43 healthy persons (mean age 11.8 ± 4.7 years). Each patient had a complete eye examination. Trace element concentrations in hair were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry. Cu/Zn ratio was also calculated. The zinc level in the hair of myopic patients was significantly higher (260 µg/g) in comparison to the control group (130 µg/g). There was a significantly lower Cu/Zn ratio in myopic patients (0.045) compared with controls (0.07). An insignificant difference was observed in the hair level of copper, selenium, and manganese between patients and controls. The results show that trace elements may play a significant role in the pathogenesis of myopia. Further studies should pay more attention to determine the effect of trace element on children myopia.
Collapse
|
40
|
Association between catatonia and levels of hair and serum trace elements and minerals in autism spectrum disorder. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 109:174-180. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.10.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
|
41
|
Skalny AV, Simashkova NV, Skalnaya AA, Klyushnik TP, Zhegalova IV, Grabeklis AR, Skalnaya MG, Tinkov AA. Trace element levels are associated with neuroinflammatory markers in children with autistic spectrum disorder. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2018; 50:622-628. [PMID: 29731309 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2018.04.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Revised: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to estimate the association between brain inflammatory markers and serum trace element levels as assessed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry at NexION 300D. Leukocyte elastase (LE), α1-proteinase inhibitor (α1-PI) activity, anti-nerve growth factor-antibodies (anti-NGF-Ab), and anti-myelin basic protein-antibodies (anti-MBP-Ab) levels were assessed as inflammatory markers. The obtained data demonstrate that the increase in LE and α1-PI activity is associated with higher serum Cr and Cu levels, respectively. The increase in Anti-NGF-Ab levels was associated with a nearly significant 16% increase in serum Mn levels. Autistic children with high MBP-Ab levels were characterized by 28% higher serum Mn and lower Mg concentration. The results of correlation analysis were generally in agreement with the outcome of group comparisons. Regression analysis demonstrated that serum Mg was significantly negatively associated with LE activity, whereas both serum Fe and V concentrations were characterized by a positive influence on the parameter. In turn, serum Cu was a significant predictor of α1-PI, as well as Cr levels. At the same time, the serum concentrations of Cd and Fe were found to be inversely associated with α1-PI levels. Serum Cd and Mn levels were significant positive predictors of anti-MBP-Ab levels, whereas Mg levels had a negative impact on anti-MBP-Ab values. Generally, the obtained data demonstrate the interrelationship between trace element homeostasis and neuroinflammation in autism. Hypothetically, modulation of trace element status may be used for reduction of neuroinflammatory response, although further studies are required to reveal the underlying mechanisms of the observed associations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anatoly V Skalny
- Yaroslavl State University, Sovetskaya St., 14, Yaroslavl, 150000, Russia; Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Miklukho-Maklaya St., 6, Moscow, 105064, Russia; Orenburg State University, Pobedy Ave., 13, Orenburg, 460352, Russia
| | - Natalia V Simashkova
- Scientific Center for Mental Health, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Tatiana P Klyushnik
- Scientific Center for Mental Health, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Irina V Zhegalova
- Yaroslavl State University, Sovetskaya St., 14, Yaroslavl, 150000, Russia; I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Malaya Trubetskaya St., 8, Moscow, 119992, Russia
| | - Andrei R Grabeklis
- Yaroslavl State University, Sovetskaya St., 14, Yaroslavl, 150000, Russia; Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Miklukho-Maklaya St., 6, Moscow, 105064, Russia
| | | | - Alexey A Tinkov
- Yaroslavl State University, Sovetskaya St., 14, Yaroslavl, 150000, Russia; Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Miklukho-Maklaya St., 6, Moscow, 105064, Russia.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Diagnostic and Severity-Tracking Biomarkers for Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Mol Neurosci 2018; 66:492-511. [DOI: 10.1007/s12031-018-1192-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
|
43
|
Bjørklund G, Skalny AV, Rahman MM, Dadar M, Yassa HA, Aaseth J, Chirumbolo S, Skalnaya MG, Tinkov AA. Toxic metal(loid)-based pollutants and their possible role in autism spectrum disorder. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2018; 166:234-250. [PMID: 29902778 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2018.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social interaction, verbal and non-verbal communication, and stereotypic behaviors. Many studies support a significant relationship between many different environmental factors in ASD etiology. These factors include increased daily exposure to various toxic metal-based environmental pollutants, which represent a cause for concern in public health. This article reviews the most relevant toxic metals, commonly found, environmental pollutants, i.e., lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), aluminum (Al), and the metalloid arsenic (As). Additionally, it discusses how pollutants can be a possible pathogenetic cause of ASD through various mechanisms including neuroinflammation in different regions of the brain, fundamentally occurring through elevation of the proinflammatory profile of cytokines and aberrant expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). Due to the worldwide increase in toxic environmental pollution, studies on the role of pollutants in neurodevelopmental disorders, including direct effects on the developing brain and the subjects' genetic susceptibility and polymorphism, are of utmost importance to achieve the best therapeutic approach and preventive strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine, Mo i Rana, Norway.
| | - Anatoly V Skalny
- Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia; Yaroslavl State University, Yaroslavl, Russia; All-Russian Research Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Moscow, Russia
| | - Md Mostafizur Rahman
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka, Bangladesh; Graduate School of Environmental Science, Hokkaido University, Japan
| | - Maryam Dadar
- Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | - Heba A Yassa
- Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Jan Aaseth
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway; Department of Research, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Brumunddal, Norway
| | - Salvatore Chirumbolo
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Alexey A Tinkov
- Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia; Yaroslavl State University, Yaroslavl, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Zhou H, Zhao W, Ye L, Chen Z, Cui Y. Postnatal low-concentration arsenic exposure induces autism-like behavior and affects frontal cortex neurogenesis in rats. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2018; 62:188-198. [PMID: 30064059 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2018.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the effects of postnatal low-concentration arsenic exposure on learning, social skills and frontal cortex neurogenesis in rats. Water-based arsenic exposure rat models were established on postnatal days 4-10 (P4-P10). The experimental animals were divided into four groups: the control group, a 15 μg/L As2O3 water group, a 30 μg/L As2O3 water group, and a 45 μg/L As2O3 water group. Cognitive function was examined with the Morris water maze, anxiety-like behavior with the open field test and light-dark box test, and social skills with a social interaction test. The frontal cortices of pups from each experimental group were sectioned at various time points after arsenic exposure. The morphologies and neurogenesis of the neurons in the frontal cortices were observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining, Nissl staining, and doublecortin (DCX) immunostaining. Significant positive correlations between arsenic concentration and deficits in learning and social skills were found, and the arsenic exposure groups showed significant increases in anxiety-like behavior compared with the control group (all Ps<0.05). Abnormal morphologic changes in the external granular layer and external pyramidal layer were positively correlated with the water arsenic concentration in the acute phase of arsenic exposure. However, at five weeks after arsenic exposure, the frontal cortex morphology was restored. Moreover, immunohistochemistry revealed that compared to the control group, the groups that were exposed to arsenic exhibited significantly higher levels of DCX expression in the external granular and external pyramidal layers (all Ps<0.001). Furthermore, the 30 μg/L and 45 μg/L arsenic exposure groups still showed some DCX expression at five weeks after exposure. In conclusion, postnatal low-concentration arsenic exposure impaired learning and social skills and increased anxiety-like behaviors, and abnormal frontal cortex neurogenesis may be the mechanism underlying these effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhou
- Department of Pediatrics, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Medical College of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550002, China.
| | | | - Liu Ye
- Otolaryngological Department, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Medical College of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550002, China
| | - Zhihe Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Medical College of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550002, China
| | - Yuxia Cui
- Department of Pediatrics, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Medical College of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550002, China; Guizhou Medical University, 550004, China.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Dickerson AS, Rotem RS, Christian MA, Nguyen VT, Specht AJ. Potential Sex Differences Relative to Autism Spectrum Disorder and Metals. Curr Environ Health Rep 2018; 4:405-414. [PMID: 28988324 DOI: 10.1007/s40572-017-0164-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This study aims to summarize the current body of literature on the relationship between various toxic metals exposures (i.e., aluminum, antimony, arsenic, beryllium, cadmium, chromium, lead, manganese, and nickel) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), with a focus on potential sex differences in these associations. RECENT FINDINGS Sex differences in ASD diagnosis and mutagenic effects of toxic exposures indicate that sex differences may play a major part in the causal relationship of any potential associations seen; however, we were only able to find three studies that reported on sex differences in observed associations with toxic metals exposure and ASD. We also found several studies investigating associations between ASD and metals exposures, including 11 on aluminum, 6 on antimony, 15 on arsenic, 5 on beryllium, 17 on cadmium, 11 on chromium, 25 on lead, 14 on manganese, and 13 on nickel with markers of exposure in hair, urine, blood, teeth, fingernails, and air pollution. Results for each metal were conflicting, but studies on cadmium and lead yielded the highest proportion of studies with positive results (72% and 36%, respectively). Based on our examination of existing literature, the current evidence warrants a considerable need for evaluations of sex differences in future studies assessing the association between metals exposures and ASD. Additionally, failure to account for potential sex differences could result in bias and misinterpretation of exposure-disease relationships.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aisha S Dickerson
- Departments of Epidemiology and Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02215, USA. .,Environmental and Occupation Medicine and Epidemiology Division of the Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 401 Park Street, Landmark Center L3-125, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Ran S Rotem
- Department Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - MacKinsey A Christian
- Division of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, and Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences (CCTS), University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Vy T Nguyen
- Department Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Aaron J Specht
- Department Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Tseng PT, Cheng YS, Chen YW, Stubbs B, Whiteley P, Carvalho AF, Li DJ, Chen TY, Yang WC, Tang CH, Chu CS, Yang WC, Liang HY, Wu CK, Yen CF, Lin PY. Peripheral iron levels in children with autism spectrum disorders vs controls: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutr Res 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2017.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
|
47
|
Skalny AV, Simashkova NV, Skalnaya MG, Klyushnik TP, Chernova LN, Tinkov AA. Mercury and autism spectrum disorders. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2018; 118:75-79. [DOI: 10.17116/jnevro20181185275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
48
|
Jafari T, Rostampour N, Fallah AA, Hesami A. The association between mercury levels and autism spectrum disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2017; 44:289-297. [PMID: 28965590 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2017.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2017] [Revised: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The relationship between mercury and autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has always been a topic of controversy among researchers. This study aimed to assess the relationship between ASD and mercury levels in hair, urine, blood, red blood cells (RBC), and brain through a meta-analysis. METHODS A systematic search was performed in several databases including PubMed, ISI Web of Science, Cochrane register of controlled trials, Google Scholar, Scopus, and MagIran until June 2017. Case-control studies evaluating concentration of total mercury in different tissues of ASD patients and comparing them to the healthy subjects (control group) were identified. Necessary data were extracted and random effects model was used to calculate overall effect and its 95% corresponding confidence interval (CI) from the effect sizes. RESULTS A total of 44 studies were identified that met the necessary criteria for meta-analysis. The mercury level in whole blood (Hedges=0.43, 95% CI: 0.12, 0.74, P=0.007), RBC (Hedges=1.61, 95% CI: 0.83, 2.38, P<0.001), and brain (0.61ng/g, 95% CI, 0.02, 1.19, P=0.043) was significantly higher in ASD patients than healthy subjects, whereas mercury level in hair (-0.14mg/g, 95% CI: -0.28, -0.01, P=0.039) was significantly lower in ASD patients than healthy subjects. The mercury level in urine was not significantly different between ASD patients and healthy subjects (0.51mg/g creatinine, 95% CI: -0.14, 1.16, P=0.121). CONCLUSIONS Results of the current meta-analysis revealed that mercury is an important causal factor in the etiology of ASD. It seems that the detoxification and excretory mechanisms are impaired in ASD patients which lead to accumulation of mercury in the body. Future additional studies on mercury levels in different tissues of ASD patients should be undertaken.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tina Jafari
- Clinical Biochemistry Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Sharhekord, Iran; Department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran.
| | - Noushin Rostampour
- Department of Pediatrics, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Aziz A Fallah
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord 34141, Iran
| | - Afshin Hesami
- Clinical Biochemistry Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Sharhekord, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Bjørklund G, Dadar M, Mutter J, Aaseth J. The toxicology of mercury: Current research and emerging trends. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2017; 159:545-554. [PMID: 28889024 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2017.08.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 240] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Revised: 08/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a persistent bio-accumulative toxic metal with unique physicochemical properties of public health concern since their natural and anthropogenic diffusions still induce high risk to human and environmental health. The goal of this review was to analyze scientific literature evaluating the role of global concerns over Hg exposure due to human exposure to ingestion of contaminated seafood (methyl-Hg) as well as elemental Hg levels of dental amalgam fillings (metallic Hg), vaccines (ethyl-Hg) and contaminated water and air (Hg chloride). Mercury has been recognized as a neurotoxicant as well as immunotoxic and designated by the World Health Organization as one of the ten most dangerous chemicals to public health. It has been shown that the half-life of inorganic Hg in human brains is several years to several decades. Mercury occurs in the environment under different chemical forms as elemental Hg (metallic), inorganic and organic Hg. Despite the raising understanding of the Hg toxicokinetics, there is still fully justified to further explore the emerging theories about its bioavailability and adverse effects in humans. In this review, we describe current research and emerging trends in Hg toxicity with the purpose of providing up-to-date information for a better understanding of the kinetics of this metal, presenting comprehensive knowledge on published data analyzing its metabolism, interaction with other metals, distribution, internal doses and targets, and reservoir organs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine, Toften 24, 8610 Mo i Rana, Norway.
| | - Maryam Dadar
- Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | | | - Jan Aaseth
- Innlandet Hospital Trust and Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Skalny AV, Simashkova NV, Skalnaya AA, Klyushnik TP, Bjørklund G, Skalnaya MG, Tinkov AA. Assessment of gender and age effects on serum and hair trace element levels in children with autism spectrum disorder. Metab Brain Dis 2017; 32:1675-1684. [PMID: 28664504 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-017-0056-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The primary objective of the present study was to investigate the levels of essential trace elements in hair and serum in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and investigate the age and gender effects. Children with ASD were characterized by significantly higher levels of copper (Cu) (+8%), iron (Fe) (+5%), and selenium (Se) (+13%) levels in hair and only 8% higher serum Cu levels. After stratification for gender, ASD boys were characterized by significantly increased hair Cu (+ 25%), Fe (+ 25%), and Se (+ 9%) levels, whereas in girls only Se content was elevated (+ 15%). Boys and girls suffering from ASD were characterized by significantly higher serum manganese (Mn) (+20%) and Cu (+18%) as compared to the control values, respectively. In the group of younger children (2-5 years), no significant group difference in hair trace element levels was detected, whereas serum Cu levels were significantly higher (+7%). In turn, the serum concentration of Se in ASD children was 11% lower than that in neurotypical children. In the group of older children with ASD (6-10 years), hair Fe and Se levels were 21% and 16% higher, whereas in serum only Cu levels were increased (+12%) as compared to the controls. Correlation analysis also revealed a different relationship between serum and hair trace element levels with respect to gender and age. Therefore, it is highly recommended to assess several bioindicative matrices for critical evaluation of trace element status in patients with ASD in order to develop adequate personalized nutritional correction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anatoly V Skalny
- RUDN University, Moscow, Russia
- Orenburg State University, Orenburg, Russia
- Yaroslavl State University, Sovetskaya St., 15, 150000, Yaroslavl, Russia
- Trace Element Institute for UNESCO, Lyon, France
| | - Natalia V Simashkova
- Scientific Center for Mental Health, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Tatiana P Klyushnik
- Scientific Center for Mental Health, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine, Mo i Rana, Norway
| | | | - Alexey A Tinkov
- RUDN University, Moscow, Russia.
- Yaroslavl State University, Sovetskaya St., 15, 150000, Yaroslavl, Russia.
- Orenburg State Medical University, Orenburg, Russia.
| |
Collapse
|