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Kaushik A, Singh A, Kumar Gupta V, Mishra YK. Nano/micro-plastic, an invisible threat getting into the brain. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 361:142380. [PMID: 38763401 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Due to weather and working/operational conditions, plastic degradation produces toxic and non-biodegradable nano and microplastics (N/M-Ps, ranging from 10 nm to 5 mm), and over time these N/M-Ps have integrated with the human cycle through ingestion and inhalation. These N/M-Ps, as serious emerging pollutants, are causing considerable adverse health issues due to up-taken by the cells, tissue, and organs, including the brain. It has been proven that N/M-Ps can cross the blood-brain barrier (via olfactory and blood vessels) and affect the secretion of neuroinflammatory (cytokine and chemokine), transporters, and receptor markers. Neurotoxicity, neuroinflammation, and brain injury, which may result in such scenarios are a serious concern and may cause brain disorders. However, the related pathways and pathogenesis are not well-explored but are the focus of upcoming emerging research. Therefore, as a focus of this editorial, well-organized multidisciplinary research is required to explore associated pathways and pathogenesis, leading to brain mapping and nano-enabled therapeutics in acute and chronic N/M - Ps exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajeet Kaushik
- NanoBioTech Laboratory, Department of Environmental Engineering, Florida Polytechnic University, Lakeland, FL, USA.
| | - Avtar Singh
- Research and Development, Molekule Inc., 3802 Spectrum Blvd., Tampa, FL, 33612, USA.
| | - V Kumar Gupta
- School of Biotechnology, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Yogendra Kumar Mishra
- Mads Clausen Institute, NanoSYD, University of Southern Denmark, Alsion 2, 6400, Sønderborg, Denmark.
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von der Osten-Sacken C, Staufer T, Rothkamm K, Kuhrwahl R, Grüner F. Numerical Study towards In Vivo Tracking of Micro-/Nanoplastic Based on X-ray Fluorescence Imaging. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1500. [PMID: 39062073 PMCID: PMC11274933 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12071500] [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: 06/07/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
There is a rising awareness of the toxicity of micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs); however, fundamental precise information on MNP-biodistribution in organisms is currently not available. X-ray fluorescence imaging (XFI) is introduced as a promising imaging modality to elucidate the effective MNP bioavailability and is expected to enable exact measurements on the uptake over the physical barriers of the organism and bioaccumulation in different organs. This is possible because of the ability of XFI to perform quantitative studies with a high spatial resolution and the possibility to conduct longitudinal studies. The focus of this work is a numerical study on the detection limits for a selected XFI-marker, here, palladium, to facilitate the design of future preclinical in vivo studies. Based on Monte Carlo simulations using a 3D voxel mouse model, the palladium detection thresholds in different organs under in vivo conditions in a mouse are estimated. The minimal Pd-mass in the scanning position at a reasonable significance level is determined to be <20 ng/mm2 for abdominal organs and <16 μg/mm2 for the brain. MNPs labelled with Pd and homogeneously distributed in the organ would be detectable down to a concentration of <1 μg/mL to <2.5 mg/mL in vivo. Long-term studies with a chronic MNP exposure in low concentrations are therefore possible such that XFI measurements could, in the future, contribute to MNP health risk assessment in small animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin von der Osten-Sacken
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical Faculty, University of Hamburg, Martinistraße 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (C.v.d.O.-S.); (K.R.)
- Institute for Experimental Physics, Universität Hamburg, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany; (T.S.); (R.K.)
| | - Theresa Staufer
- Institute for Experimental Physics, Universität Hamburg, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany; (T.S.); (R.K.)
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science (CFEL), Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kai Rothkamm
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical Faculty, University of Hamburg, Martinistraße 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (C.v.d.O.-S.); (K.R.)
| | - Robert Kuhrwahl
- Institute for Experimental Physics, Universität Hamburg, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany; (T.S.); (R.K.)
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science (CFEL), Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Florian Grüner
- Institute for Experimental Physics, Universität Hamburg, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany; (T.S.); (R.K.)
- Center for Free-Electron Laser Science (CFEL), Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
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Kotta-Loizou I, Pritsa A, Antasouras G, Vasilopoulos SN, Voulgaridou G, Papadopoulou SK, Coutts RHA, Lechouritis E, Giaginis C. Fetus Exposure to Drugs and Chemicals: A Holistic Overview on the Assessment of Their Transport and Metabolism across the Human Placental Barrier. Diseases 2024; 12:114. [PMID: 38920546 PMCID: PMC11202568 DOI: 10.3390/diseases12060114] [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: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The placenta exerts a crucial role in fetus growth and development during gestation, protecting the fetus from maternal drugs and chemical exposure. However, diverse drugs and chemicals (xenobiotics) can penetrate the maternal placental barrier, leading to deleterious, adverse effects concerning fetus health. Moreover, placental enzymes can metabolize drugs and chemicals into more toxic compounds for the fetus. Thus, evaluating the molecular mechanisms through which drugs and chemicals transfer and undergo metabolism across the placental barrier is of vital importance. In this aspect, this comprehensive literature review aims to provide a holistic approach by critically summarizing and scrutinizing the potential molecular processes and mechanisms governing drugs and chemical transfer and metabolism across the placental barrier, which may lead to fetotoxicity effects, as well as analyzing the currently available experimental methodologies used to assess xenobiotics placental transfer and metabolism. METHODS A comprehensive and in-depth literature review was conducted in the most accurate scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science by using relevant and effective keywords related to xenobiotic placental transfer and metabolism, retrieving 8830 published articles until 5 February 2024. After applying several strict exclusion and inclusion criteria, a final number of 148 relevant published articles were included. RESULTS During pregnancy, several drugs and chemicals can be transferred from the mother to the fetus across the placental barrier by either passive diffusion or through placental transporters, resulting in fetus exposure and potential fetotoxicity effects. Some drugs and chemicals also appear to be metabolized across the placental barrier, leading to more toxic products for both the mother and the fetus. At present, there is increasing research development of diverse experimental methodologies to determine the potential molecular processes and mechanisms of drug and chemical placental transfer and metabolism. All the currently available methodologies have specific strengths and limitations, highlighting the strong demand to utilize an efficient combination of them to obtain reliable evidence concerning drug and chemical transfer and metabolism across the placental barrier. To derive the most consistent and safe evidence, in vitro studies, ex vivo perfusion methods, and in vivo animal and human studies can be applied together with the final aim to minimize potential fetotoxicity effects. CONCLUSIONS Research is being increasingly carried out to obtain an accurate and safe evaluation of drug and chemical transport and metabolism across the placental barrier, applying a combination of advanced techniques to avoid potential fetotoxic effects. The improvement of the currently available techniques and the development of novel experimental protocols and methodologies are of major importance to protect both the mother and the fetus from xenobiotic exposure, as well as to minimize potential fetotoxicity effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioly Kotta-Loizou
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK;
| | - Agathi Pritsa
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, School of Health Sciences, International Hellenic University, 57400 Thessaloniki, Greece; (G.V.); (S.K.P.)
| | - Georgios Antasouras
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, School of the Environment, University of the Aegean, 81400 Lemnos, Greece; (G.A.); (E.L.); (C.G.)
| | - Spyridon N. Vasilopoulos
- DNA Damage Laboratory, Physics Department, School of Applied Mathematical and Physical Sciences, National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), Zografou Campus, 15780 Athens, Greece;
| | - Gavriela Voulgaridou
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, School of Health Sciences, International Hellenic University, 57400 Thessaloniki, Greece; (G.V.); (S.K.P.)
| | - Sousana K. Papadopoulou
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, School of Health Sciences, International Hellenic University, 57400 Thessaloniki, Greece; (G.V.); (S.K.P.)
| | - Robert H. A. Coutts
- Department of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Sciences, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK;
| | - Eleftherios Lechouritis
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, School of the Environment, University of the Aegean, 81400 Lemnos, Greece; (G.A.); (E.L.); (C.G.)
| | - Constantinos Giaginis
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, School of the Environment, University of the Aegean, 81400 Lemnos, Greece; (G.A.); (E.L.); (C.G.)
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Sharma RK, Kumari U, Kumar S. Impact of Microplastics on Pregnancy and Fetal Development: A Systematic Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e60712. [PMID: 38903343 PMCID: PMC11186737 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.60712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution is a growing global concern because of its potential to impair human health, particularly with regard to fetal development. However, the origins of prenatal MP exposure and its effects on fetal development have not been well studied. This study aimed to provide a systematic review of the literature regarding the impact of microplastics on pregnancy and fetal development. PubMed, Embase, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched from 2010 until March 2024. Original publications exploring the impact of microplastics on pregnancy and fetal development were included in the study. After selecting papers, two independent reviewers extracted data regarding study characteristics, microplastics identified, and reproductive impacts. The quality of studies was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Checklists for Studies created by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). Twelve studies, including 234 subjects, were selected from a total of 2,809 citations for the final qualitative analysis. Articles were published between 2021 and 2024, and most were conducted in China. The results of the included studies confirmed the existence of microplastics with varying sizes (2.1 to 100 micrometers) in the placenta and the fetal body. Studies revealed correlations between lifestyle choices and the presence of microplastics in the placenta. They also reported correlations between the level of microplastics and diminished microbiome diversity, reduced birthweights, affected gestational age, and fetal growth and development. Microplastics may be detrimental to a developing fetus during pregnancy. Nonetheless, more thorough research is required to comprehend the impact of microplastic exposure on pregnancy and fetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Usha Kumari
- Biochemistry, Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, IND
| | - Sudhir Kumar
- Electrical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Patna, Patna, IND
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Xue J, Xu Z, Hu X, Lu Y, Zhao Y, Zhang H. Microplastics in maternal amniotic fluid and their associations with gestational age. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 920:171044. [PMID: 38382607 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution is a growing global concern due to its potential threat to human health, particularly concerning fetal health. Nevertheless, few studies have examined the sources of fetal MPs exposure and its impact on fetal development. In this study, MPs levels in maternal amniotic fluid (AF) and their associations with measures of fetal growth were investigated. Specifically, 40 human AF samples were collected to determine the presence and characteristics of MPs using laser direct infrared (LD-IR) spectroscopy. MPs were found in 32 out of 40 AF samples, with an average abundance of 2.01 ± 4.19 particles/g. Polyethylene (PE, 38.80 %) and chlorinated polyethylene (CPE, 26.98 %) were the most prevalent polymers. The majority of MPs (87.56 %) were 20-100 μm in size, and fragments (71.23 %) evidently prevailed in morphology. Additionally, a questionnaire was designed to explore the associations between MPs levels in the AF and maternal dietary habits, aiming at unveiling the potential sources of MPs in AF. The MPs levels in the AF were positively associated with the frequency of seafood consumption (r = 0.781, P < 0.001) and bottled water intake (r = 0.386, P = 0.014). Moreover, the associations between MPs levels in maternal AF and measures of fetal growth were evaluated. The abundance of total MPs in maternal AF were significantly negatively associated with gestational age (β = -0.44, 95 % CI, -0.83, -0.05). This study confirms the presence of MPs in human AF and provides compelling evidence linking them to gestational age, while highlighting the potential risks associated with dietary habits. These findings underscore the need for further investigation into the mechanisms of MPs transmission from mother to fetus and the potential health implications during fetal development, offering valuable insights for future policies aimed at safeguarding maternal and fetal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyang Xue
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Zhendong Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology and critical care, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xiaobing Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology and critical care, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yan Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology and critical care, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China.
| | - Hai Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
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Aplin JD, Jones CJP, Jauniaux E. Environmental nanoparticles and placental research. BJOG 2024; 131:551-554. [PMID: 37880085 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- John D Aplin
- Division of Developmental Biology & Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | - Carolyn J P Jones
- Division of Developmental Biology & Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | - Eric Jauniaux
- Faculty of Population Health Sciences, EGA Institute for Women's Health, University College London (UCL), London, UK
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Zhang M, Shi J, Pan H, Zhu J, Wang X, Song L, Deng H. A novel tiRNA-Glu-CTC induces nanoplastics accelerated vascular smooth muscle cell phenotypic switching and vascular injury through mitochondrial damage. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169515. [PMID: 38154651 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics pose several health hazards, especially vascular toxicity. Transfer RNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) are novel noncoding RNAs associated with different pathological processes. However, their biological roles and mechanisms in aberrant vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) plasticity and vascular injury are unclear. This study investigated the potent effects of tsRNAs on vascular injury induced by short- and long-term exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs). Mice were exposed to PS-NPs (100 nm) at different doses (10-100 μg/mL) for 30 or 180 days. High-throughput sequencing was used to analyze tsRNA expression patterns in arterial tissues obtained from an in vivo model. Additionally, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, fluorescent in situ hybridization assays, and dual-luciferase reporter assays were performed to measure the expression and impact of tiRNA-Glu-CTC on VSMCs exposed to PS-NPs. Short-term (≥50 μg/mL, moderate concentration) and long-term (≥10 μg/mL, low concentration) PS-NP exposure induced vascular injury in vivo. Cellular experiments showed that the moderate concentration of PS-NPs induced VSMC phenotypic switching, whereas a high concentration of PS-NPs (100 μg/mL) promoted VSMC apoptosis. PS-NP induced severe mitochondrial damage in VSMCs, including overexpression of reactive oxygen species, accumulation of mutated mtDNA, and dysregulation of genes related to mitochondrial synthesis and division. Compared with the control group, 13 upregulated and 12 downregulated tRNA-derived stress-induced RNAs (tiRNAs) were observed in the long-term PS-NP (50 μg/mL) exposure group. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that differentially expressed tiRNAs targeted genes that were involved in vascular smooth muscle contraction and calcium signaling pathways. Interestingly, tiRNA-Glu-CTC was overexpressed in vivo and in vitro following PS-NP exposure. Functionally, the tiRNA-Glu-CTC inhibitor mitigated VSMC phenotypic switching and mitochondrial damage induced by PS-NP exposure, whereas tiRNA-Glu-CTC mimics had the opposite effect. Mechanistically, tiRNA-Glu-CTC mimics induced VSMC phenotypic switching by downregulating Cacna1f expression. PS-NP exposure promoted VSMC phenotypic switching and vascular injury by targeting the tiRNA-Glu-CTC/Cacna1f axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhang
- Division of Cardiology, Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200336 Shanghai, China.
| | - Jun Shi
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huichao Pan
- Division of Cardiology, Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200336 Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Zhu
- Center for Translational Neurodegeneration and Regenerative Therapy, Tenth People's Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueting Wang
- Division of Cardiology, Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200336 Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Song
- Division of Cardiology, Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200336 Shanghai, China
| | - Huiping Deng
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
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Farlie F, Palmer GA, Cohen J, Calcagni C, Gorbunova A, Lawford Davies J, Loscher C, O'Raghallaigh R, Sharp T, Smale D, Sörme P, Thiel CL, Alteri A, Campbell A, Crompton K, Mortimer S, Pisaturo V, Tolpe A, Alikani M. Sustainability in the IVF laboratory: recommendations of an expert panel. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103600. [PMID: 38039562 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
The healthcare industry is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Assisted reproductive technology is part of the larger healthcare sector, with its own heavy carbon footprint. The social, economic and environmental costs of this collective carbon footprint are becoming clearer, as is the impact on human reproductive health. Alpha Scientists in Reproductive Medicine and the International IVF Initiative collaborated to seek and formulate practical recommendations for sustainability in IVF laboratories. An international panel of experts, enthusiasts and professionals in reproductive medicine, environmental science, architecture, biorepository and law convened to discuss the topics of importance to sustainability. Recommendations were issued on how to build a culture of sustainability in the workplace, implement green design and building, use life cycle analysis to determine the environmental impact, manage cryostorage more sustainably, and understand and manage laboratory waste with prevention as a primary goal. The panel explored whether the industry supporting IVF is sustainable. An example is provided to illustrate the application of green principles to an IVF laboratory through a certification programme. The UK legislative landscape surrounding sustainability is also discussed and a few recommendations on 'Green Conferencing' are offered.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giles A Palmer
- International IVF Initiative (I3), New York, New York, USA; IVF2.0, London, UK
| | - Jacques Cohen
- International IVF Initiative (I3), New York, New York, USA; Conceivable Life Sciences, New York, New York, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Cassandra L Thiel
- Departments of Population Health and Ophthalmology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA; NYU Tandon School of Engineering, New York, New York, USA
| | - Alessandra Alteri
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alison Campbell
- Care Fertility, UK; Mina Alikani, Alpha Scientists in Reproductive Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Sharon Mortimer
- Oozoa Biomedical, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Mina Alikani, Alpha Scientists in Reproductive Medicine, London, UK
| | - Valerio Pisaturo
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Annelies Tolpe
- Annelies Tolpe, BS; Department of Reproductive Medicine - Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mina Alikani
- Mina Alikani, Alpha Scientists in Reproductive Medicine, London, UK.
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Hong Y, Wu S, Wei G. Adverse effects of microplastics and nanoplastics on the reproductive system: A comprehensive review of fertility and potential harmful interactions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 903:166258. [PMID: 37579804 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) have caused ubiquitous environmental pollution and raised widespread concern about their potential toxicity to human health, especially in the reproductive system. Moreover, infertility affects >15 % of couples worldwide, and the birth rate is decreasing. Environmental factors are some of the most important causes of infertility. However, little is known about the effects of MPs and NPs on the testes and ovaries. These particles can enter the body primarily via ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact, target the reproductive system in a size-dependent manner and disturb germ cell and other somatic cell development. Our study systematically reviewed the adverse effects of plastic particles on reproductive function and offers valuable insights into the different stages of germ cells and the potential mechanisms. Moreover, the synergistic reproductive toxicity of these particles and carried contaminants was summarized. Given the limited research scale, a shift toward innovative technologies and the adoption of multiple omics are recommended for advancing related studies. Further study is needed to explore the reproductive toxicity of MPs and NPs based on their size, polymer type, shape, and carried toxins, establish effective protective measures, and develop precision medicine for targeted reproductive damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Hong
- Department of Urology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China
| | - Shengde Wu
- Department of Urology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China.
| | - Guanghui Wei
- Department of Urology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China
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Pumarega J, Buscà O, Gasull M, Porta M. Supporting legislative action: Urinary levels of phthalates and phenols among influencers in the 'Plastics in the spotlight' advocacy initiative. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 231:116205. [PMID: 37217124 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Society-wide initiatives to prevent human exposure to plastic residues include laws and policies. Such measures require citizens' support, which can be increased by honest advocacy and pedagogic projects. These efforts must have a scientific basis. OBJECTIVE To assist the 'Plastics in the spotlight' advocacy initiative raise awareness among the general public of the presence of plastic residues in the human body, and to increase citizens' support for legislation on plastic control in the European Union. METHODS Spot urine samples of 69 volunteers with cultural and political influence from Spain, Portugal, Latvia, Slovenia, Belgium, and Bulgaria were collected. Concentrations of 30 phthalate metabolites and phenols were determined through a high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry, respectively. RESULTS At least 18 compounds were detected in all urine samples. The maximum number of compounds detected per participant was 23, and the mean, 20.5. Phthalates were detected more frequently than phenols. Median concentrations were highest for monoethyl phthalate (41.6 ng/mL, adjusted for specific gravity), and maximum concentrations were highest for mono-iso-butyl phthalate (1345.1 ng/mL), oxybenzone (1915.1 ng/mL), and triclosan (949.6 ng/mL). Most reference values were not exceeded. Women had higher concentrations of the 14 phthalate metabolites and oxybenzone than men. Urinary concentrations were not correlated with age. DISCUSSION The study had three main limitations: method of subject selection (volunteers), small sample size, and limited data on determinants of exposure. Studies on volunteers do not pretend to be representative of the general population and are no substitute for biomonitoring studies in representative samples of the populations of interest. Studies as ours can only illustrate the existence and some aspects of the problem, and can raise awareness among citizens concerned by the evidence that the studies provide in a group of subjects who are humanly appealing. CONCLUSIONS The results illustrate that human exposure to phthalates and phenols is widespread. All countries appeared to be similarly exposed to these contaminants, with higher levels in females. Most concentrations did not exceed reference values. The effects of this study on the objectives of the 'Plastics in the spotlight' advocacy initiative deserve a specific analysis from policy science.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Pumarega
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Hospital Del Mar Institute of Medical Research (IMIM), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Oriol Buscà
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Hospital Del Mar Institute of Medical Research (IMIM), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Magda Gasull
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Hospital Del Mar Institute of Medical Research (IMIM), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Miquel Porta
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Hospital Del Mar Institute of Medical Research (IMIM), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
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Forest V, Pourchez J. Can the impact of micro- and nanoplastics on human health really be assessed using in vitro models? A review of methodological issues. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 178:108115. [PMID: 37542783 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.108115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Because of the many advantages they offer (strength, low cost, durability, lightweight, resistance, etc.), plastics are integral part of our daily life with a production constantly rising. However, their waste management is still inadequate, resulting in their release and accumulation in the environment, representing a main source of pollution. Their degradation results in debris of variable size including microplastics (0.1 μm-5 mm) and even nanoplastics (<0.1 μm), whose potential impact on ecosystems and human health have raised concerns. The potential adverse effects they may cause have been evaluated using both in vitro and in vivo models. However, due to some specific characteristics of micro- and nanoplastics, there are challenging questions about whether conventional in vitro tests are appropriate for evaluating their toxicity. For example, low-density plastics float on the surface of the culture medium and cannot come into contact with cells adhering to the bottom of the culture plates, which prevents proper evaluation of potential adverse effects and leads to misinterpretation of toxicological assays. In this review, we discuss the main issues related to the evaluation of micro- and nanoplastics toxicity using conventional in vitro assays. A literature survey has allowed to propose some solutions to circumvent these issues including the use of mathematical models to accurately determine the dose of particles delivered to cells, advanced 3D models (organoids), inverted cell culture models, cell cultures at the air-liquid interface or under dynamic conditions. Finally, we propose some perspectives and recommendations for further research on the in vitro evaluation of micro- and nanoplastics toxicity, underlining the importance of using standardized protocols for comparison purposes and samples and experimental conditions more representative of real-life exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Forest
- Mines Saint-Etienne, Univ Jean Monnet, INSERM, U1059 Sainbiose, Centre CIS, F-42023 Saint-Etienne, France.
| | - Jérémie Pourchez
- Mines Saint-Etienne, Univ Jean Monnet, INSERM, U1059 Sainbiose, Centre CIS, F-42023 Saint-Etienne, France
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