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Sait STL, Survilienė V, Jüssi M, Gonzalez SV, Ciesielski TM, Jenssen BM, Asimakopoulos AG. Determination of steroid hormones in grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) blood plasma using convergence chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Talanta 2023; 254:124109. [PMID: 36535212 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2022.124109] [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: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A hybrid solid phase extraction (HybridSPE) protocol tailored to ultra-performance convergence chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPC2-MS/MS) was developed for the determination of 19 steroid hormones in grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) blood plasma. In this study, the protocol demonstrated acceptable absolute recoveries ranging from 33 to 90%. The chromatographic separation was carried out using a gradient elution program with a total run time of 5 min. For most target analytes, the method repeatability ranged from 1.9 to 24% and the method limits of quantification (mLOQs) ranged from 0.03 to 1.67 ng/mL. A total of 9 plasma samples were analysed to demonstrate the applicability of the developed method, and 13 steroid hormones were quantified in grey seal pup plasma. The most prevalent steroids: cortisol, cortisone, corticosterone, 11-deoxycortisol, progesterone and 17α-hydroxyprogesterone were detected at concentrations in the range of 12.6-40.1, 7.10-24.2, 0.74-10.7, 1.06-5.72, 0.38-4.38 and <mLOQ - 1.01 ng/mL, respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first study to determine steroid hormones in the plasma of pinnipeds using convergence chromatography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannen Thora Lea Sait
- Department of Chemistry, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), 7491, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Vaida Survilienė
- Institute of Biosciences, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Sauletekio Av. 7, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Mart Jüssi
- Pro Mare MTÜ, Saula, Kose, Harjumaa, 75101, Estonia
| | - Susana V Gonzalez
- Department of Chemistry, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), 7491, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Tomasz Maciej Ciesielski
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), 7491, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Bjørn Munro Jenssen
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), 7491, Trondheim, Norway; Department of Arctic Technology, The University Centre in Svalbard (UNIS), P.O. Box 156, 9171, Longyearbyen, Norway; Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, P.O. Box 358, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Alexandros G Asimakopoulos
- Department of Chemistry, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), 7491, Trondheim, Norway.
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2
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Björvang RD, Damdimopoulou P. Persistent environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals in ovarian follicular fluid and in vitro fertilization treatment outcome in women. Ups J Med Sci 2020; 125:85-94. [PMID: 32093529 PMCID: PMC7721012 DOI: 10.1080/03009734.2020.1727073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Several international organizations have recently highlighted endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) as factors of concern in human reproduction. Since successful reproduction is dependent on timely and appropriate action of hormones, disruption of the endocrine system could lead to difficulties in conceiving or carrying a pregnancy to term. EDCs are chemicals that disrupt the endocrine system by activating or inhibiting receptors of the endocrine system, and/or altering hormone receptor expression; signal transduction; epigenetic marks; hormone synthesis, transport, distribution, and metabolism; and the fate of hormone-producing cells. Due to the increasing production of industrial chemicals over the past century and their lenient control, EDCs are now common contaminants in the environment. Consequently, everyone faces a life-long exposure to mixtures of chemicals, some of which have been identified as EDCs. As birth rates in humans are declining and the use of assisted reproductive technologies increasing, it is timely to consider possible effects of EDCs on human reproduction and fertility. In this review, we focus on persistent EDCs, their occurrence in ovarian follicular fluid, and associations to treatment outcomes in assisted reproduction. Our summary shows that despite being banned decades ago, mixtures of persistent EDCs are still detected in the ovarian follicular fluid, demonstrating direct exposure of oocytes to these chemicals. In addition, there are several reported associations between exposure and worse outcome in in vitro fertilization. Further research is therefore warranted to prove causality, which will lead towards better regulation and exposure reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richelle D. Björvang
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pauliina Damdimopoulou
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Skottene E, Tarrant AM, Olsen AJ, Altin D, Hansen BH, Choquet M, Olsen RE, Jenssen BM. A Crude Awakening: Effects of Crude Oil on Lipid Metabolism in Calanoid Copepods Terminating Diapause. THE BIOLOGICAL BULLETIN 2019; 237:90-110. [PMID: 31714858 DOI: 10.1086/705234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Calanus finmarchicus and Calanus glacialis are keystone zooplankton species in North Atlantic and Arctic marine ecosystems because they form a link in the trophic transfer of nutritious lipids from phytoplankton to predators on higher trophic levels. These calanoid copepods spend several months of the year in deep waters in a dormant state called diapause, after which they emerge in surface waters to feed and reproduce during the spring phytoplankton bloom. Disruption of diapause timing could have dramatic consequences for marine ecosystems. In the present study, Calanus C5 copepodites were collected in a Norwegian fjord during diapause and were subsequently experimentally exposed to the water-soluble fraction of a naphthenic North Sea crude oil during diapause termination. The copepods were sampled repeatedly while progressing toward adulthood and were analyzed for utilization of lipid stores and for differential expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism. Our results indicate that water-soluble fraction exposure led to a temporary pause in lipid catabolism, suggested by (i) slower utilization of lipid stores in water-soluble fraction-exposed C5 copepodites and (ii) more genes in the β-oxidation pathway being downregulated in water-soluble fraction-exposed C5 copepodites than in the control C5 copepodites. Because lipid content and/or composition may be an important trigger for termination of diapause, our results imply that the timing of diapause termination and subsequent migration to the surface may be delayed if copepods are exposed to oil pollution during diapause or diapause termination. This delay could have detrimental effects on ecosystem dynamics.
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Lamb JS, Fiorello CV, Satgé YG, Mills K, Ziccardi M, Jodice PGR. Movement patterns of California brown pelicans (Pelecanus occidentalis californicus) following oiling and rehabilitation. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 131:22-31. [PMID: 29886941 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.03.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Revised: 03/23/2018] [Accepted: 03/25/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Direct mortality of wildlife is generally used to quantify the damage caused by pollution events. However, free-ranging wildlife that survive initial exposure to pollutants may also experience long-term consequences. Individuals that are rehabilitated following oil exposure have a known history of oiling and provide a useful study population for understanding behavior following pollution events. We GPS-tracked 12 rehabilitated brown pelicans and compared their movements to those of eight non-oiled, non-rehabilitated controls over 87-707 (mean = 271) days. Rehabilitated pelicans traveled farther, spent more time in long-distance movements, and occupied more productive waters than controls. These differences were more apparent among females than males. Rehabilitated pelicans also visited breeding colonies and nest sites at lower rates than controls. Our results indicate that, although rehabilitated pelicans undertake long-distance movements, they may display increased dispersion and reduced breeding investment, particularly among females. Such behavioral changes could have long-term effects on populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- J S Lamb
- Department of Forestry and Environmental Conservation, South Carolina Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Lehotsky Hall, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA.
| | - C V Fiorello
- Oiled Wildlife Care Network, Karen C. Drayer Wildlife Health Center, 1089 Veterinary Drive VM3B, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Y G Satgé
- Department of Forestry and Environmental Conservation, South Carolina Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Lehotsky Hall, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
| | - K Mills
- Oiled Wildlife Care Network, Karen C. Drayer Wildlife Health Center, 1089 Veterinary Drive VM3B, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - M Ziccardi
- Oiled Wildlife Care Network, Karen C. Drayer Wildlife Health Center, 1089 Veterinary Drive VM3B, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - P G R Jodice
- U.S. Geological Survey South Carolina Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Forestry and Environmental Conservation, Lehotsky Hall, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
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5
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Yan HK, Wang N, Wu N, Lin WN. Abundance, Habitat Conditions, and Conservation of the Largha Seal (Phoca largha) During the Past Half Century in the Bohai Sea, China. MAMMAL STUDY 2018. [DOI: 10.3106/ms2017-0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hua-Kun Yan
- Department of Transportation Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian, China, 116026
| | - Nuo Wang
- Department of Transportation Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian, China, 116026
| | - Nuan Wu
- Department of Transportation Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian, China, 116026
| | - Wan-ni Lin
- Department of Transportation Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian, China, 116026
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Stienen EWM, Courtens W, Van de Walle M, Vanermen N, Verstraete H. Long-term monitoring study of beached seabirds shows that chronic oil pollution in the southern North Sea has almost halted. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 115:194-200. [PMID: 27986298 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Revised: 11/28/2016] [Accepted: 12/07/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Trends in oil rates of beached seabirds reflect temporal and spatial patterns in chronic oil pollution at sea. We analysed a long-term dataset of systematic beached bird surveys along the Belgian North Sea coast during 1962-2015, where extreme high oil contamination rates and consequently high mortality rates of seabirds during the 1960s used to coincide with intensive ship traffic. In the 1960s, >90% of all swimming seabirds that washed ashore were contaminated with oil and estimated oil-induced mortality of seabirds was probably several times higher than natural mortality. More than 50years later oil rates of seabirds have dropped to historically low levels while shipping is still very intense, indicating that chronic oil pollution has significantly declined. The declining trend is discussed in the light of a series of legislative measures that were enacted in the North Sea region to reduce oil pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric W M Stienen
- Research Institute for Nature and Forest, Kliniekstraat 25, 1070 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Wouter Courtens
- Research Institute for Nature and Forest, Kliniekstraat 25, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marc Van de Walle
- Research Institute for Nature and Forest, Kliniekstraat 25, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Vanermen
- Research Institute for Nature and Forest, Kliniekstraat 25, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hilbran Verstraete
- Research Institute for Nature and Forest, Kliniekstraat 25, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
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7
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Lindén O, Pålsson J. Oil contamination in Ogoniland, Niger Delta. AMBIO 2013; 42:685-701. [PMID: 23749556 PMCID: PMC3758819 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-013-0412-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2012] [Revised: 11/19/2012] [Accepted: 04/29/2013] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
The study shows extensive oil contamination of rivers, creeks, and ground waters in Ogoniland, Nigeria. The levels found in the more contaminated sites are high enough to cause severe impacts on the ecosystem and human health: extractable petroleum hydrocarbons (EPHs) (>10-C40) in surface waters up to 7420 μg L(-1), drinking water wells show up to 42 200 μg L(-1), and benzene up to 9000 μg L(-1), more than 900 times the WHO guidelines. EPH concentrations in sediments were up to 17 900 mg kg(-1). Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons concentrations reached 8.0 mg kg(-1), in the most contaminated sites. The contamination has killed large areas of mangroves. Although the natural conditions for degradation of petroleum hydrocarbons are favorable with high temperatures and relatively high rainfall, the recovery of contaminated areas is prevented due to the chronic character of the contamination. Oil spills of varying magnitude originates from facilities and pipelines; leaks from aging, dilapidated, and abandoned infrastructure; and from spills during transport and artisanal refining of stolen oil under very primitive conditions.
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8
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Barron MG. Ecological Impacts of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill: Implications for Immunotoxicity. Toxicol Pathol 2011; 40:315-20. [DOI: 10.1177/0192623311428474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mace G. Barron
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, ORD/NHEERL/GED, Gulf Breeze, Florida, USA
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9
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Sugni M, Tremolada P, Porte C, Barbaglio A, Bonasoro F, Carnevali MDC. Chemical fate and biological effects of several endocrine disrupters compounds in two echinoderm species. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2010; 19:538-554. [PMID: 19937112 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-009-0439-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/03/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Two echinoderm species, the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus and the feather star Antedon mediterranea, were exposed for 28 days to several EDCs: three putative androgenic compounds, triphenyltin (TPT), fenarimol (FEN), methyltestosterone (MET), and two putative antiandrogenic compounds, p,p'-DDE (DDE) and cyproterone acetate (CPA). The exposure nominal concentrations were from 10 to 3000 ng L(-1), depending on the compound. This paper is an attempt to join three different aspects coming from our ecotoxicological tests: (1) the chemical behaviour inside the experimental system; (2) the measured toxicological endpoints; (3) the biochemical responses, to which the measured endpoints may depend. The chemical fate of the different compounds was enquired by a modelling approach throughout the application of the 'Aquarium model'. An estimation of the day-to-day concentration levels in water and biota were obtained together with the amount assumed each day by each animal (uptake in microg animal(-1) d(-1) or ng g-wet weight(-1) d(-1)). The toxicological endpoints investigated deal with the reproductive potential (gonad maturation stage, gonad index and oocyte diameter) and with the regenerative potential (growth and histology). Almost all the compounds exerted some kind of effect at the tested concentrations, however TPT was the most effective in altering both reproductive and regenerative parameters (also at the concentration of few ng L(-1)). The biochemical analyses of testosterone (T) and 17beta-estradiol (E(2)) also showed the ability of the selected compounds to significantly alter endogenous steroid concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Sugni
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
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10
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Szlinder-Richert J, Barska I, Mazerski J, Usydus Z. Organochlorine pesticides in fish from the southern Baltic Sea: levels, bioaccumulation features and temporal trends during the 1995-2006 period. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2008; 56:927-940. [PMID: 18407298 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2008.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2007] [Revised: 01/03/2008] [Accepted: 01/18/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The levels of HCH isomers, HCB and summation DDTs were determined in five species of Baltic fish collected during 1995-2006. Some downward time trends of HCH isomer, pp'-DDE and pp'-DDD concentrations in Baltic fish were observed; in contrast, HCB and DDT concentrations did not exhibit any obvious trend. Concentrations of summation HCHs expressed on a lipid weight basis were very similar in all species studied. In contrast, concentrations of summation DDTs varied in tested species. The most abundant HCH isomer was beta-HCH and among DDT-related compounds, pp'-DDE prevailed. In our investigations the sampling sites were not a crucial factor for organochlorine pesticide concentrations and patterns observed in fish, but the occurrence of several inter-species differences in the bioaccumulation features of OC pesticides were observed. For cod there was a positive correlation between fish size (length) and summation DDT concentration. In herring, sprat and salmon samples, summation DDT concentrations were negatively correlated with fat content.
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11
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Echinoderm regenerative response as a sensitive ecotoxicological test for the exposure to endocrine disrupters: effects of p,p′DDE and CPA on crinoid arm regeneration. Cell Biol Toxicol 2008; 24:573-86. [DOI: 10.1007/s10565-008-9057-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2007] [Accepted: 01/03/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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12
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Van Meter RJ, Spotila JR, Avery HW. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons affect survival and development of common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) embryos and hatchlings. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2006; 142:466-75. [PMID: 16360251 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2005.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2005] [Accepted: 10/07/2005] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are toxic compounds found in the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. We assessed the impact of PAHs and crude oil on snapping turtle development and behavior by exposing snapping turtle eggs from the Refuge and from three clean reference sites to individual PAHs or a crude oil mixture at stage 9 of embryonic development. Exposure to PAHs had a significant effect on survival rates in embryos from one clean reference site, but not in embryos from the other sites. There was a positive linear relationship between level of exposure to PAHs and severity of deformities in embryos collected from two of the clean reference sites. Neither righting response nor upper temperature tolerance (critical thermal maximum, CTM) of snapping turtle hatchlings with no or minor deformities was significantly affected by exposure to PAHs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin J Van Meter
- School of Environmental Science, Engineering, and Policy and Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Drexel University, 3141 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Kalantzi OI, Hall AJ, Thomas GO, Jones KC. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers and selected organochlorine chemicals in grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) in the North Sea. CHEMOSPHERE 2005; 58:345-354. [PMID: 15581937 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2004.07.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2003] [Revised: 06/14/2004] [Accepted: 07/13/2004] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Blubber samples from grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) pups were collected in 1998 through to 2000. Twenty four newly weaned pups were sampled in November 1998, 13 of which were re-sampled during their first year of life, between March and December 1999, and an additional 48 and 25 samples (new cohorts) were obtained in 1999 (November-December) and 2000 (May-September) respectively. SimgaPBDE concentrations (sum of Di-HxBDEs) ranged from 45 to 1500 ng/g lipid, with a geometric mean of 290 ng/g lipid. BDE 47 dominated the congener profile, followed by BDEs 100, 99, 153 and 154. SimgaPCB concentrations (sum of 41 congeners) ranged from 100 to 93000 ng/g lipid, with a geometric mean of 4600 ng/g lipid, with CB congeners 153, 138 and 180 making up 84% of the total PCB concentrations. The predominant OC pesticides were p,p'-DDE (geometric mean=860 ng/g lipid, range=160-3800 ng/g lipid) and p,p'-DDT (geometric mean=120 ng/g lipid, range=30-670 ng/g lipid). No significant differences were found between males and females, probably due to the young age of the animals. Significant decreases (P<0.01 for PBDEs and P<0.05 for PCBs/OCs) were observed between newly weaned seals in 1998 and 1999, but not for the majority of juveniles in 1999 and 2000. Significant differences (P<0.01) were also found between the different seasons in 1999 newly weaned and juvenile seals, reflecting changes in blubber mass.
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Affiliation(s)
- O I Kalantzi
- Department of Environmental Science, IENS, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YQ, UK.
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Shahidul Islam M, Tanaka M. Impacts of pollution on coastal and marine ecosystems including coastal and marine fisheries and approach for management: a review and synthesis. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2004; 48:624-49. [PMID: 15041420 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2003.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 438] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The history of aquatic environmental pollution goes back to the very beginning of the history of human civilization. However, aquatic pollution did not receive much attention until a threshold level was reached with adverse consequences on the ecosystems and organisms. Aquatic pollution has become a global concern, but even so, most developing nations are still producing huge pollution loads and the trends are expected to increase. Knowledge of the pollution sources and impacts on ecosystems is important not only for a better understanding on the ecosystem responses to pollutants but also to formulate prevention measures. Many of the sources of aquatic pollutions are generally well known and huge effort has been devoted to the issue. However, new concepts and ideas on environmental pollution are emerging (e.g., biological pollution) with a corresponding need for an update of the knowledge. The present paper attempts to provide an easy-to-follow depiction on the various forms of aquatic pollutions and their impacts on the ecosystem and organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Shahidul Islam
- Division of Applied Biosciences, Faculty of Fisheries, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
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15
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Jenssen BM, Haugen O, Sørmo EG, Skaare JU. Negative relationship between PCBs and plasma retinol in low-contaminated free-ranging gray seal pups (Halichoerus grypus). ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2003; 93:79-87. [PMID: 12865050 DOI: 10.1016/s0013-9351(03)00061-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) have been shown to affect retinol (vitamin A) homeostasis in adult as well as neonatal seals. The aim of the present study was to examine the relationships between plasma (PL)-retinol status and PCB concentrations in different blood compartments (blood cells (BCs), PL, and whole blood (WB)) of free-ranging neonatal gray seals (Halichoerus grypus) and to identify which PCB congeners may be responsible for the PL-retinol-depressing effects of PCBs. PL-retinol concentrations correlated positively with body mass and negatively with sigmaPCB (lipid-weight basis, lw) in WB and sigmaPCBlw in BCs. SigmaPCBlw in WB was the parameter that best described the variation in PL-retinol concentration (r2=0.455, n=20, P=0.0007). Furthermore, PL-retinol concentrations correlated with nine of the 15 detected PCB congeners. It is possible that there is an equilibration between the concentrations of metabolizable congeners and their metabolites and that the retinol-depressing effect of PCBs in neonatal gray seals is caused by PCB-OH metabolites that interfere with the formation of PL transport complexes that transport retinol in PL and increase renal excretion of retinol. This suggestion is in accordance with previous mechanistic explanations of the retinol-depressing effect of PCB in rodents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bjørn M Jenssen
- Department of Zoology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NO-7491, Trondheim, Norway.
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Salazar S. Impacts of the Jessica oil spill on sea lion (Zalophus wollebaeki) populations. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2003; 47:313-318. [PMID: 12810095 DOI: 10.1016/s0025-326x(03)00160-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Following the Jessica oil spill, a total of 79 oiled Galápagos sea lions (Zalophus wollebaeki) were recorded around the islands of San Cristóbal, Santa Fé, Isabela and Floreana. Almost half of these animals required washing and other treatment. One sea lion death and a high incidence of conjunctivitis and burns were detected during the period of the oil spill. Sea lion populations exhibited a tendency for decline in the first months following the spill at all three colonies monitored close to the grounding site on San Cristóbal. By comparison, declines of similar magnitude occurred at only one of six sea lion colonies monitored on islands more distant from the spill. However, no significant decreases in population numbers were detected for any colony in the year following the spill. Galápagos sea lion populations were partially recovering from the much more catastrophic impact of the 1997/98 El Niño.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandie Salazar
- Charles Darwin Foundation, Puerto Ayora, Galápagos, Ecuador.
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17
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Oberg M, Stern N, Jensen S, Wesén C, Haglund P, Casabona H, Johansson N, Blomgren K, Håkansson H. Subchronic toxicity of Baltic herring oil and its fractions in the rat I: Fractionation and levels of organohalogen pollutants. PHARMACOLOGY & TOXICOLOGY 2002; 91:220-31. [PMID: 12570029 DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0773.2002.910503.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Baltic herring (Clupea harengus) oil was extracted and fractionated. To examine the contribution to toxicity and biological effects of different halogenated organic pollutants, the herring oil and the fractions were mixed into pelleted food and given to Sprague-Dawley female rats at three levels, corresponding to a human intake of 1.6, 8.2 and 34.4 kg fish per week. Herring oil, its fractions, as well as liver tissues from exposed rats, were analyzed for: eight chlorinated biphenyls, all 2,3,7,8-substituted chlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans, hexachlorocyclohexanes, hexachlorobenzene, 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethane (DDT), DDT-metabolites, three brominated diphenylethers as well as extractable organically bound chlorine and halogenated fatty acids. A bioassay (EROD) was used for measuring the dioxin-like enzyme induction activity. Nordic Sea lodda (Mallotus villosus) oil was used as a nutritionally equivalent control, with much lower levels of halogenated organic pollutants. A full toxicological subchronic examination is reported in the following paper (Stern et al. 2002). In this study, we report that the fractionation procedure resulted in a substantial reduction of most of the pollutants in the triacylglycerol fraction, and a pronounced enrichment of most of the pollutants into the two other fractions. However, all contaminants were present at some levels in all of the fractions. The concentrations of organohalogens found in this study were representative for Baltic herring during the mid-1990s. Rat liver tissue showed similar residue patterns as the diet, with the exception of chlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin and dibenzofuran congeners that had a higher liver retention than pesticides, chlorinated biphenyls and brominated diphenylethers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattias Oberg
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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18
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Holdway DA. The acute and chronic effects of wastes associated with offshore oil and gas production on temperate and tropical marine ecological processes. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2002; 44:185-203. [PMID: 11954735 DOI: 10.1016/s0025-326x(01)00197-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
A review of the acute and chronic effects of produced formation water (PFW), drilling fluids (muds) including oil-based cutting muds, water-based cutting muds, ester-based cutting muds and chemical additives, and crude oils associated with offshore oil and gas production was undertaken in relation to both temperate and tropical marine ecological processes. The main environmental effects are summarized, often in tabular form. Generally, the temporal and spatial scales of these studies, along with the large levels of inherent variation in natural environments, have precluded our ability to predict the potential long-term environmental impacts of the offshore oil and gas production industry. A series of critical questions regarding the environmental effects of the offshore oil and gas production industry that still remain unanswered are provided for future consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas A Holdway
- Department of Biotechnology and Environmental Biology, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, Vic, Australia.
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19
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12 The North Sea Large Marine Ecosystem. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2002. [DOI: 10.1016/s1570-0461(02)80064-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
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20
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Marsili L, Caruso A, Fossi MC, Zanardelli M, Politi E, Focardi S. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PaHs) in subcutaneous biopsies of Mediterranean cetaceans. CHEMOSPHERE 2001; 44:147-154. [PMID: 11444295 DOI: 10.1016/s0045-6535(00)00206-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to measure polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) levels in free-ranging Mediterranean cetaceans as they are likely to cause chemical stress in the organisms of this basin. Blubber samples were collected from live specimens of fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) and striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba) by means of biopsies, a non-destructive biological method. Fin whales were sampled in the Ligurian Sea, whereas striped dolphins were collected in the Ligurian and the Ionian Seas. A fingerprint of 14 PAHs was obtained for both species. In whales, the median value of total PAHs was 1970 ppb fresh weight (f.w.) while median carcinogenic PAH values were 89.80 ppb f.w.; in dolphins, the median values of total and carcinogenic PAHs were 29,500 and 676.00 ppb f.w., respectively. The different PAH values between the two species can be attributed to the different positions they take in the Mediterranean food web. The sampling period significantly influenced PAH concentrations of fin whales.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Marsili
- Dip Scienze Ambientali, Università di Siena, Italy.
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21
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Bang K, Jenssen BM, Lydersen C, Skaare JU. Organochlorine burdens in blood of ringed and bearded seals from north-western Svalbard. CHEMOSPHERE 2001; 44:193-203. [PMID: 11444300 DOI: 10.1016/s0045-6535(00)00197-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Ringed seal (Phoca hispida) and bearded seal (Erignathus barbatus) are the main prey of polar bears (Ursus maritimus), and information on organochlorines (OCs) in these pinniped species is important to understand the transport, fate and effects of persistent organic pollutants in the Arctic ecosystem. Thus, OCs were analysed in blood samples of bearded and ringed seals from the coastal ecosystem of the north-western Svalbard archipelago (Kongsfjorden, 78.55degrees N). The relative contribution of OCs could be ranked as follows: Ringed seal females: sigmaPCB > sigma DDT > sigma CHL > sigma HCH > HCB > Mirex. Ringed seal males: sigma PCB > or = sigma DDT > sigma CHL > sigma HCH > or = HCB > Mirex. Bearded seal females: sigma PCB > sigma HCH > or = sigma CHL > sigma DDT > Mirex > HCB. Bearded seal males: sigma PCB > sigma DDT > or = sigma CHL > sigma HCH > Mirex > or = HCB. The concentrations of sigmaPCB and sigma DDT were higher in ringed seals than in bearded seals, whereas sigma HCH was higher in bearded than in ringed seals. In ringed seal females and males sigma PCB was 337 +/- 95 ng/g (n= 6) and 625 +/- 443 ng/g (n=6), whereas sigma DDT was 165 +/- 47 ng/g (n=6) and 621 +/- 559 ng/g (n = 6), respectively. In bearded seal females and males, sigmaPCB was 159 +/- 132 ng/g (n = 6) and 248 +/- 93 ng/g (n = 5), whereas sigmaDDT was 46 +/- 41 ng/g (n = 6) and 161 +/- 71 ng/g (n = 5), respectively. The inter-species differences are caused by a higher trophic position of ringed seals in the Svalbard ecosystem compared to bearded seals. OC levels in ringed seals at Svalbard are similar to those reported from the North-American Arctic and in the lower range compared to previously reported data from Svalbard.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Bang
- Department of Zoology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim
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22
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Au DW, Lee CY, Chan KL, Wu RS. Reproductive impairment of sea urchins upon chronic exposure to cadmium. Part I: Effects on gamete quality. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2001; 111:1-9. [PMID: 11202702 DOI: 10.1016/s0269-7491(00)00035-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Successful reproduction is a determining factor for species survival. Pollution may impair reproductive success of adults through effects on gamete quality. Reproductive impairment of the sea urchin Anthocidaris crassispina upon chronic (4 weeks) exposure to 0.01 and 0.1 mg l-1 Cd2+ was investigated. Criteria used for assessing gamete quality included sperm motility, egg morphology, fertilization rate and dynamics of first cleavage. A dose-response relationship was found between Cd2+ levels and changes in sperm motility, and percentage fertilization. Sperm motility, measured by computer-assisted sperm analysis, indicated that percent motile sperm, velocities, and percent sperm with normal trajectory were significantly affected by chronic exposure to > or = 0.1 mg l-1 Cd2+. A decline in sperm motility was also accompanied by a decrease in fertilization success of sea urchin sperm. Width/height ratio of sea urchin eggs was not affected by cadmium, but larger egg sizes were found when sea urchins were exposed to 0.1 mg l-1 Cd2+. Male sea urchins exposed to Cd2+ produced poorer quality sperm, as indicated by a lower percent fertilization and lower cleavage rate, implying that male sea urchins were more sensitive than females to chronic Cd2+ exposure. Results of the present study provide an explanation of reproductive impairment in marine invertebrates upon chronic exposure to Cd2+.
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Affiliation(s)
- D W Au
- Center for Coastal Pollution and Conservation, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
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Seagars DJ, Garlich-Miller J. Organochlorine compounds and aliphatic hydrocarbons in Pacific walrus blubber. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2001; 43:122-131. [PMID: 11601530 DOI: 10.1016/s0025-326x(00)00233-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Blubber samples were collected from 8 male and 19 female Pacific walrus (Odobenus rosmarus divergens) taken during a 1991 joint USA/USSR cruise traveling widely through the Bering Sea. Dieldrin was found at a level similar to that reported 10 years earlier; oxychlordane was found at a slightly higher concentration than reported previously (Taylor et aL, 1989). Heptachlor epoxide was detected for the first time and found at a low concentration. An initial testing for alpha-, beta- and gamma-HCH detected concentrations similar to those in other Bering Sea pinnipeds. Mean summation of PCB was 0.45 microg g(-1) wet weight in males and 0.16 microg g(-1) in females; only one sample was > 1 microg g(-1). Traces of aliphatic hydrocarbons were detected in all sampled animals, only pristane (x = 0.48 microg g(-1)) was found in concentrations > 1 microg g(-1). Small sample sizes, a lack of samples from immature animals, and uniformly low concentrations of contaminants precluded meaningful analysis of age-related effects and regional differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- D J Seagars
- Marine Mammals Management, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Anchorage, AK 99503, USA.
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Woldstad S, Jenssen BM. Thyroid hormones in grey seal pups (Halichoerus grypus). Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 1999; 122:157-62. [PMID: 10327615 DOI: 10.1016/s1095-6433(98)10160-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to describe the changes in thyroid hormone status in grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) pups from birth to weaning and moulting. Plasma concentrations of total thyroxine (tT4) were highest the first two days after birth, thereafter dropping to a lower, but stable level. This pattern may reflect a high transfer rate of maternal thyroxine prepartum, prior to parturition, or postpartum via colostrum, or it may be caused by active secretory thyrocytes in late foetal stage. Total triiodothyronine (tT3) concentrations were lowest in neonatal pups, and increased as a function of age, indicating that deiodination of T4 to T3 increases as a function of age. Plasma concentrations of free thyroxine (fT4) did not vary as a function of age. All hormone concentrations were higher than previously reported in adults, probably reflecting the important role of these hormones in regulating their high rates of metabolism and tissue synthesis and the growth of their juvenile pelage. Since polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) have been reported to affect plasma concentrations of thyroid hormones in seals, the information on thyroid hormone concentrations and dynamics reported in grey seal pups from a pristine Norwegian coastal environment provide valuable reference material for future studies on pups from more polluted areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Woldstad
- Department of Zoology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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25
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Abstract
Synthetic chemicals are released into the environment by design (pesticides) or as a result of industrial activity. It is well known that natural environmental chemicals can cause goiter or thyroid imbalance. However, the effects of synthetic chemicals on thyroid function have received little attention, and there is much controversy over their potential clinical impact, because few studies have been conducted in humans. This article reviews the literature on possible thyroid disruption in wildlife, humans, and experimental animals and focuses on the most studied chemicals: the pesticides DDT, amitrole, and the thiocarbamate family, including ethylenethiourea, and the industrial chemicals polyhalogenated hydrocarbons, phenol derivatives, and phthalates. Wildlife observations in polluted areas clearly demonstrate a significant incidence of goiter and/or thyroid imbalance in several species. Experimental evidence in rodents, fish, and primates confirms the potentiality for thyroid disruption of several chemicals and illustrates the mechanisms involved. In adult humans, however, exposure to background levels of chemicals does not seem to have a significant negative effect on thyroid function, while exposure at higher levels, occupational or accidental, may produce mild thyroid changes. The impact of transgenerational, background exposure in utero on fetal neurodevelopment and later childhood cognitive function is now under scrutiny. There are several studies linking a lack of optimal neurological function in infants and children with high background levels of exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxins, and/or co-contaminants, but it is unclear if the effects are caused by thyroid disruption in utero or direct neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Brucker-Davis
- Wildlife and Contaminants Program, World Wildlife Fund, Washington, DC 20037, USA
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26
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Brouwer A, Morse DC, Lans MC, Schuur AG, Murk AJ, Klasson-Wehler E, Bergman A, Visser TJ. Interactions of persistent environmental organohalogens with the thyroid hormone system: mechanisms and possible consequences for animal and human health. Toxicol Ind Health 1998; 14:59-84. [PMID: 9460170 DOI: 10.1177/074823379801400107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 350] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Several classes of environmental contaminants have been claimed or suggested to possess endocrine-disrupting potency, which may result in reproductive problems and developmental disorders. In this paper the focus is on the multiple and interactive mechanisms of interference of persistent polyhalogenated aromatic hydrocarbons (PHAHs) and their metabolites with the thyroid hormone system. Evidence suggests that pure congeners or mixtures of PHAHs directly interfere with the thyroid gland; with thyroid hormone metabolizing enzymes, such as uridine-diphosphate-glucuronyl transferases (UGTs), iodothyronine deiodinases (IDs), and sulfotransferases (SULTs) in liver and brain; and with the plasma transport system of thyroid hormones in experimental animals and their offspring. Changes in thyroid hormone levels in conjunction with high PHAH exposure was also observed in captive as well as free ranging wildlife species and in humans. Maternal exposure to PHAHs during pregnancy resulted in a considerable fetal transfer of hydroxylated PHAHs, which are known to compete with thyroxine (T4) for plasma transthyretin (TTR) binding sites, and thus may be transported to the fetus with those carrier proteins that normally mediate the delivery of T4 to the fetus. Concomitant changes in thyroid hormone concentrations in plasma and in brain tissue were observed in fetal and neonatal stages of development, when sufficient thyroid hormone levels are essential for normal brain development. Alterations in structural and functional neurochemical parameters, such as glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), synaptophysin, calcineurin, and serotonergic neurotransmitters, were observed in the same offspring up to postnatal day 90. In addition, some changes in locomotor and cognitive indices of behavior were observed in rat offspring, following in utero and lactational exposure to PHAHs. Alterations in thyroid hormone levels and subtle changes in neurobehavioral performance were also observed in human infants exposed in utero and through lactation to relatively high levels of PHAHs. Overall these studies indicate that persistent PHAHs can disrupt the thyroid hormone system at a multitude of interaction sites, which may have a profound impact on normal brain development in experimental animals, wildlife species, and human infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Brouwer
- Department of Toxicology, Wageningen Agricultural University, The Netherlands.
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