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André C, Duy SV, Sauvé S, Gagné F. Comparative toxicity of urban wastewater and rainfall overflow in caged freshwater mussel Elliptio complanata. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1233659. [PMID: 37637140 PMCID: PMC10449329 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1233659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Municipal effluents are well-recognized as disrupting sexual differentiation and reproduction in mussels. However, the contribution to this problem made by rainfall combined with sewer overflow (increased by rain due to climate change) is not well understood. The purpose of this study was to compare the neuroendocrine effects of municipal discharge and rainfall overflow on caged endemic mussel Elliptio complanata. To this end, mussels were experimentally caged and placed for 3 months at a municipal effluent dispersion plume site and at overflow sites. Data revealed that downstream surface water contained some pharmaceuticals (caffeine and carbamazepine) and accumulated significant levels of heterotrophic bacteria, but these effects were not observed at the overflow sites. The principal effects observed at the downstream site were increased soft tissue mass (and gonad index), inflammation, and Vtg proteins in male mussels as determined by a novel immunostaining methodology. The rainfall overflow sites had no effects on these markers, but were specifically associated with reduced Vtg proteins in females, dopamine (Dop), gonad lipids, and DNA strand breaks, with increased metallothioneins. In conclusion, the observed feminizing effects of municipal effluent were not additionally observed in mussels caged at rainfall overflow sites, although the latter exhibited a different pattern of toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. André
- Aquatic Contaminants Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - S. V. Duy
- Chemistry Department, Montreal University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - S. Sauvé
- Chemistry Department, Montreal University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - F. Gagné
- Aquatic Contaminants Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Montréal, QC, Canada
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2
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Gu W, Thitiphuree T, Otoki Y, Marquez EC, Kitano T, Itoh N, Nagasawa K, Osada M. Expression and functional analyses for estrogen receptor and estrogen related receptor of Yesso scallop, Patinopecten yessoensis. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2023; 231:106302. [PMID: 36990165 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2023.106302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Estrogen receptors (ERs) were known as estrogen-activated transcription factors and function as major reproduction regulators in vertebrates. The presence of er genes had been reported in Molluscan cephalopods and gastropods. However, they were considered as constitutive activators with unknown biological functions since reporter assays for these ERs did not show a specific response to estrogens. In this study, we tried characterization of ER orthologues from the Yesso scallop, Patinopecten yessoensis, in which estrogens had been proven to be produced in the gonads and involved in the spermatogenesis and vitellogenesis. Identified ER and estrogen related receptor (ERR) of Yesso scallops, designated as py-ER and py-ERR, conserved specific domain structures for a nuclear receptor. Their DNA binding domains showed high similarities to those of vertebrate ER orthologues, while ligand binding domains had low similarities with them. Both the py-er and py-err expression levels decreased in the ovary at the mature stage while py-vitellogenin expression increased in the ovary by quantitative real-time RT-PCR. Also, the py-er and py-err showed higher expressions in the testis than ovary during the developing and mature period, suggesting both genes might function in the spermatogenesis and testis development. The py-ER showed binding affinities to vertebrate estradiol-17β (E2). However, the intensity was weaker than the vertebrate ER, indicating scallops might exist endogenous estrogens with a different structure. On the other hand, the binding property of py-ERR to E2 was not confirmed in this assay, speculating that py-ERR was a constitutive activator as other vertebrate ERRs. Further, the py-er was localized in the spermatogonia in the testis and in the auxiliary cells in the ovary by in situ hybridization, indicating its potential roles in promoting spermatogenesis and vitellogenesis. Taken together, the present study demonstrated that py-ER was an authentic E2 receptor in the Yesso scallop and might have functions for the spermatogonia proliferation and vitellogenesis, while py-ERR was involved in the reproduction by undiscovered manners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbin Gu
- Laboratory of Aquaculture Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, 468-1Aoba, Aramaki, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0845, Japan
| | - Tongchai Thitiphuree
- Laboratory of Aquaculture Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, 468-1Aoba, Aramaki, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0845, Japan
| | - Yurika Otoki
- Laboratory of Aquaculture Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, 468-1Aoba, Aramaki, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0845, Japan
| | - Emily C Marquez
- Pesticide Action Network of North America, 1611 Telegraph Ave, Suite 1200, Oakland, CA 94612, USA
| | - Takeshi Kitano
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Kumamoto University, 2-39-1 Kurokami, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-8555, Japan
| | - Naoki Itoh
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Kazue Nagasawa
- Laboratory of Aquaculture Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, 468-1Aoba, Aramaki, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0845, Japan
| | - Makoto Osada
- Laboratory of Aquaculture Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, 468-1Aoba, Aramaki, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0845, Japan.
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3
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Mincarelli LF, Chapman EC, Rotchell JM, Turner AP, Wollenberg Valero KC. Sex and gametogenesis stage are strong drivers of gene expression in Mytilus edulis exposed to environmentally relevant plasticiser levels and pH 7.7. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:23437-23449. [PMID: 36322353 PMCID: PMC9938808 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-23801-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution and changes in oceanic pH are both pressing environmental issues. Little emphasis, however, has been placed on the influence of sex and gametogenesis stage when investigating the effects of such stressors. Here, we examined histology and molecular biomarkers of blue mussels Mytilus edulis exposed for 7 days to a pH 7.7 scenario (- 0.4 units) in combination with environmentally relevant concentrations (0, 0.5 and 50 µg/L) of the endocrine disrupting plasticiser di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP). Through a factorial design, we investigated the gametogenesis cycle and sex-related expression of genes involved in pH homeostasis, stress response and oestrogen receptor-like pathways after the exposure to the two environmental stressors. As expected, we found sex-related differences in the proportion of developing, mature and spawning gonads in histological sections. Male gonads also showed higher levels of the acid-base regulator CA2, but females had a higher expression of stress response-related genes (i.e. sod, cat, hsp70). We found a significant effect of DEHP on stress response-related gene expression that was dependent on the gametogenesis stage, but there was only a trend towards downregulation of CA2 in response to pH 7.7. In addition, differences in gene expression between males and females were most pronounced in experimental conditions containing DEHP and/or acidified pH but never the control, indicating that it is important to consider sex and gametogenesis stage when studying the response of mussels to diverse stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emma C Chapman
- Department of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Hull, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Jeanette M Rotchell
- Department of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Hull, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Alexander P Turner
- Department of Computer Science, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG8 1BB, UK
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4
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Marlatt VL, Bayen S, Castaneda-Cortès D, Delbès G, Grigorova P, Langlois VS, Martyniuk CJ, Metcalfe CD, Parent L, Rwigemera A, Thomson P, Van Der Kraak G. Impacts of endocrine disrupting chemicals on reproduction in wildlife and humans. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 208:112584. [PMID: 34951986 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are ubiquitous in aquatic and terrestrial environments. The main objective of this review was to summarize the current knowledge of the impacts of EDCs on reproductive success in wildlife and humans. The examples selected often include a retrospective assessment of the knowledge of reproductive impacts over time to discern how the effects of EDCs have changed over the last several decades. Collectively, the evidence summarized here within reinforce the concept that reproduction in wildlife and humans is negatively impacted by anthropogenic chemicals, with several altering endocrine system function. These observations of chemicals interfering with different aspects of the reproductive endocrine axis are particularly pronounced for aquatic species and are often corroborated by laboratory-based experiments (i.e. fish, amphibians, birds). Noteworthy, many of these same indicators are also observed in epidemiological studies in mammalian wildlife and humans. Given the vast array of reproductive strategies used by animals, it is perhaps not surprising that no single disrupted target is predictive of reproductive effects. Nevertheless, there are some general features of the endocrine control of reproduction, and in particular, the critical role that steroid hormones play in these processes that confer a high degree of susceptibility to environmental chemicals. New research is needed on the implications of chemical exposures during development and the potential for long-term reproductive effects. Future emphasis on field-based observations that can form the basis of more deliberate, extensive, and long-term population level studies to monitor contaminant effects, including adverse effects on the endocrine system, are key to addressing these knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- V L Marlatt
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada.
| | - S Bayen
- Department of Food Science and Agricultural Chemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - D Castaneda-Cortès
- Centre Eau Terre Environnement, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - G Delbès
- Centre Armand Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - P Grigorova
- Département Science et Technologie, Université TELUQ, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - V S Langlois
- Centre Eau Terre Environnement, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - C J Martyniuk
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - C D Metcalfe
- School of Environment, Trent University, Trent, Canada
| | - L Parent
- Département Science et Technologie, Université TELUQ, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - A Rwigemera
- Centre Armand Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - P Thomson
- Centre Eau Terre Environnement, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - G Van Der Kraak
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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Lopes J, Coppola F, Russo T, Maselli V, Di Cosmo A, Meucci V, M V M Soares A, Pretti C, Polese G, Freitas R. Behavioral, physiological and biochemical responses and differential gene expression in Mytilus galloprovincialis exposed to 17 alpha-ethinylestradiol and sodium lauryl sulfate. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 426:128058. [PMID: 34971986 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.128058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Mixture of contaminants often determine biological responses of marine species, making difficult the interpretation of toxicological data. The pharmaceutical 17 alpha-ethinylestradiol (EE2) and the surfactant Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) commonly co-occur in the marine environment. This study evaluated the effects of EE2 (125.0 ng/L) and SLS (4 mg/L), acting individually and combined, in the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis. Contaminated mussels closed their valves for longer periods than control ones, especially in the presence of both contaminants, with longer closure periods immediately after spiking compared to values obtained one day after spiking. Nevertheless, males and females increased their metabolism when in the presence of both contaminants (males) and SLS (females), and independently on the treatment males and females were able to activate their antioxidant and biotransformation defences. Although enhancing defences mussels still presented cellular damage and loss of redox balance, especially noticed in the presence of EE2 for males and SLS for females. Histopathological damage was found at mussel's gills in single and mixture exposure, and qPCR analysis revealed a clear estrogen receptor expression with no additive effect due to combined stressors. The results obtained highlight the harmful capacity of both contaminants but further research on this matter is needed, namely considering different climate change scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Lopes
- Departamento de Biologia & CESAM, Universidade de Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Francesca Coppola
- Departamento de Biologia & CESAM, Universidade de Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Tania Russo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126, Italy
| | - Valeria Maselli
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126, Italy
| | - Anna Di Cosmo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126, Italy
| | | | - Amadeu M V M Soares
- Departamento de Biologia & CESAM, Universidade de Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Carlo Pretti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Pisa, Italy; Consorzio per il Centro Interuniversitario di Biologia Marina ed Ecologia Applicata "G. Bacci" (CIBM), Livorno, Italy
| | - Gianluca Polese
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126, Italy
| | - Rosa Freitas
- Departamento de Biologia & CESAM, Universidade de Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
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6
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Fodor I, Schwarz T, Kiss B, Tapodi A, Schmidt J, Cousins ARO, Katsiadaki I, Scott AP, Pirger Z. Studies on a widely-recognized snail model species ( Lymnaea stagnalis) provide further evidence that vertebrate steroids do not have a hormonal role in the reproduction of mollusks. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:981564. [PMID: 36157463 PMCID: PMC9493083 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.981564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Experiments were carried out to determine whether, as with other mollusks that have been studied, the snail, Lymnaea stagnalis, can absorb, esterify and store vertebrate steroids that are present in the water. We also carried out experiments to determine whether neural tissues of the snail could be immunohistochemically stained with an antibody to human aromatase (a key enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of testosterone [T] to 17β-estradiol [E2]); and, if so, to determine the significance of such staining. Previous studies on other mollusks have reported such staining and have proposed this as decisive evidence that mollusks have the same steroid synthesis pathway as vertebrates. We found that snails absorb, esterify and retain esterified T, E2, progesterone and ethinyl-estradiol (albeit with an absorption rate about four times slower, on a weight basis, than the mussel, Mytilus edulis). We also found that not only anti-human aromatase, but also anti-human nuclear progesterone receptor (nPR) and anti-human gonadotropin-releasing hormone antibodies immunohistochemically stained snail neural cells. However, further experiments, involving gel electrophoretic separation, followed by immunostaining, of proteins extracted from the neural tissue, found at least two positively-stained bands for each antibody, none of which had masses matching the human proteins to which the antibodies had been raised. The anti-aromatase antibody even stained the 140 kDA ladder protein used as a molecular weight marker on the gels. Mass spectrometric analysis of the bands did not find any peptide sequences that corresponded to the human proteins. Our findings confirm that the presence of vertebrate-like sex steroids in molluscan tissues is not necessarily evidence of endogenous origin. The results also show that immunohistochemical studies using antibodies against human proteins are grossly non-specific and likely to have little or no value in studying steroid synthesis or activity in mollusks. Our conclusions are consistent with the fact that genes for aromatase and nPR have not been found in the genome of the snail or of any other mollusk. Our overarching conclusion, from this and our previous studies, is that the endocrinology of mollusks is not the same as that of humans or any other vertebrates and that continuing to carry out physiological and ecotoxicological studies on mollusks on the basis of this false assumption, is an unconscionable waste of resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- István Fodor
- Ecophysiological and Environmental Toxicological Research Group, Balaton Limnological Research Institute, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Tihany, Hungary
- *Correspondence: István Fodor,
| | - Tamar Schwarz
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Research, Weymouth Laboratory, Weymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Bence Kiss
- Institute of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Antal Tapodi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - János Schmidt
- Institute of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Alex R. O. Cousins
- Lowestoft Laboratory, Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Lowestoft, United Kingdom
| | - Ioanna Katsiadaki
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Research, Weymouth Laboratory, Weymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander P. Scott
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Research, Weymouth Laboratory, Weymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Zsolt Pirger
- Ecophysiological and Environmental Toxicological Research Group, Balaton Limnological Research Institute, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Tihany, Hungary
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7
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Wang F, Cai W, Shi W, Wu H, Shen Q, He Y, Cui S, An L. Single molecule real-time sequencing revealing novel insights on the response to estrogen and androgen exposure in freshwater snails. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2021; 239:105953. [PMID: 34521059 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2021.105953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The molecular mode of action underpinning the response of mollusks exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) remains unclear due to a lack of available information regarding their genome. Single molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing makes it possible to reveal molecular mechanisms by direct sequencing of full-length transcripts. In the present study, the transcriptome profile of the freshwater snail Parafossarulus striatulus after exposure to 17β-estradiol (E2) or 17α-methyltestosterone (MT) was evaluated using SMRT sequencing strategy. In total, 216,598 non-redundant and full-length gene isoforms were generated and 106,266 isoforms were predicted with a complete open reading frame (ORF). Moreover, 60.36% of the isoforms were matched to known proteins in at least one of six databases. Differential gene expression analyses showed significantly different patterns in paired samples with different treatments. The expression levels of several membrane receptor isoforms of P. striatulus including dopamine receptor (DR), FMRFamide receptor (FMRFaR), neuropeptide Y receptor (NYR) and neuropeptide FF receptor (NFFR), but not estrogen receptor (ER) or estrogen-related receptor (ERR), were significantly affected by E2 and MT. These findings suggest that activation of membrane receptors, as well as other signaling pathways, might be critical for mediating the effects of endocrine disruption in mollusks. The transcriptome information obtained from the SMRT sequencing provides a significant contribution to the investigation of the molecular mode of action of endocrine disrupting chemicals on P. striatulus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feifei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Wenqian Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Wenzhuo Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Haiwen Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Qian Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Yanan He
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Song Cui
- School of Water Conservancy and Civil Engineering, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Lihui An
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China.
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8
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Mincarelli LF, Rotchell JM, Chapman EC, Turner AP, Wollenberg Valero KC. Consequences of combined exposure to thermal stress and the plasticiser DEHP in Mytilus spp. differ by sex. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 170:112624. [PMID: 34146859 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about the combined effect of environmental factors and contaminants on commercially important marine species, and whether this effect differs by sex. In this study, blue mussels were exposed for seven days to both single and combined stressors (i.e., +3 °C elevated temperature and two environmentally relevant concentrations of the plastic softener DEHP, 0.5 and 50 μg/l) in a factorial design. Males were observed to be more sensitive to high temperature, demonstrated by the significant increase in out-of-season spawning gonads and higher gene expression of the antioxidant catalase and the estrogen receptor genes. On the other hand, while the gametogenesis cycle in females was more resilient than in males, DEHP exposure altered the estrogen-related receptor gene expression. We show that the combined stressors DEHP and increased temperature, in environmentally relevant magnitudes, have different consequences in male and female mussels, with the potential to impact the timing and breeding season success in Mytilus spp.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeanette M Rotchell
- Department of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, United Kingdom
| | - Emma C Chapman
- Department of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander P Turner
- Department of Computer Science, University of Nottingham, NG8 1BB, United Kingdom
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9
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Koagouw W, Stewart NA, Ciocan C. Long-term exposure of marine mussels to paracetamol: is time a healer or a killer? ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:48823-48836. [PMID: 33928507 PMCID: PMC8084691 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-14136-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Pharmaceuticals pose a major threat to the marine environment, and several studies have recently described their negative effects on marine organisms. Pharmaceutical compounds are constantly being released into aquatic ecosystems, and chronic exposure, even at low concentrations, may have a major impact on marine organisms. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the biological changes induced by one of the most widely used pharmaceuticals-paracetamol-in the blue mussel Mytilus edulis, after a long-term exposure at environmentally relevant concentrations. We present our data alongside and in comparison with results from a previous short-term exposure, to demonstrate the significance of exposure period on the effects of paracetamol in adult blue mussels. After 24 days of laboratory exposure, seven potential target genes were selected to examine toxicological effects in mussels' gonads and possible disruptive effects on reproductive processes. The results show the modulation of some important reproduction-related genes: estrogen receptor-2 (ER2), vitelline envelope zona pellucida domain-9 (V9), and vitellogenin (VTG). Variations in mRNA expression of four other genes involved in apoptosis (HSP70, CASP8, BCL2, and FAS) are also highlighted. Histopathological alterations caused by paracetamol, together with neutral red retention time response in mussels' hemocytes, are presented herein. Overall, this study highlights the exacerbated effects of low concentration of paracetamol after chronic exposure, similar to the damage induced by higher concentrations in a short exposure scenario, thus emphasizing the importance of length of exposure period when studying the effects of this substance. Additionally, this study also discusses the potential of paracetamol to inflict several major changes in the reproductive system of mussels and thus possibly affect the survival of populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wulan Koagouw
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Lewes Road, Brighton, UK
- Centre for Aquatic Environments, University of Brighton, Lewes Road, Brighton, UK
- Research Center for Oceanography, Indonesian Institute of Sciences, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Nicolas A. Stewart
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Lewes Road, Brighton, UK
| | - Corina Ciocan
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Lewes Road, Brighton, UK
- Centre for Aquatic Environments, University of Brighton, Lewes Road, Brighton, UK
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10
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Fernández-González LE, Sánchez-Marín P, Gestal C, Beiras R, Diz AP. Vitellogenin gene expression in marine mussels exposed to ethinylestradiol: No induction at the transcriptional level. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 168:105315. [PMID: 33853012 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2021.105315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Vitellogenin (Vtg), a large multidomain protein precursor of egg-yolk proteins, is used as an endocrine disruption biomarker in fish, and in the last decades, its use has been extended to invertebrates like mollusks. However, it remains unclear whether invertebrate endocrine system produces Vtg in response to estrogens, like it occurs in oviparous vertebrates. In a previous study, no evidence of induction of Vtg expression at protein level was found in gonads of the marine mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis after exposure to the estrogenic chemical 17α-ethinylestradiol (EE2). In the present follow-up study, it was investigated whether there is any effect of EE2 on Vtg abundance at transcriptional level in M. galloprovincialis gonads. To this aim, RT-qPCR analysis targeting three different domains of Vtg transcript was performed on gonads of mussels that were exposed either 4 or 24 days to 100 ng/L EE2. In addition, several reference genes were analysed and a selection of these for potential use in further RT-qPCR analyses on mussel male and female gonads is provided. Results showed higher expression in females than in males for the three analysed Vtg domains, and no evidence of Vtg mRNA induction due to EE2 either in females or males. The present results, together with those obtained from previous analysis at protein level, support that Vtg is not an adequate biomarker for xenoestrogenicity in marine mussels. Additionally, nucleotide sequences of Vtg transcripts of three closely-related species from Mytilus edulis complex (M. galloprovincialis, M. edulis and M. trossulus) are provided and compared with Vtg sequences from other mollusk species to assess the level of conservation and evolutionary relationships among species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Emilia Fernández-González
- Department of Ecology and Animal Biology, University of Vigo, 36310, Vigo, Spain; Marine Research Centre, University of Vigo (CIM-UVIGO), Isla de Toralla, Vigo, Spain; Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Immunology, University of Vigo, 36310, Vigo, Spain
| | - Paula Sánchez-Marín
- Department of Ecology and Animal Biology, University of Vigo, 36310, Vigo, Spain; Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo, Instituto Español de Oceanografía, 36390, Vigo, Spain
| | - Camino Gestal
- Marine Molecular Pathobiology Group, Institute of Marine Research (IIM-CSIC), Vigo, Spain
| | - Ricardo Beiras
- Department of Ecology and Animal Biology, University of Vigo, 36310, Vigo, Spain; Marine Research Centre, University of Vigo (CIM-UVIGO), Isla de Toralla, Vigo, Spain
| | - Angel P Diz
- Marine Research Centre, University of Vigo (CIM-UVIGO), Isla de Toralla, Vigo, Spain; Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Immunology, University of Vigo, 36310, Vigo, Spain.
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11
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Tan ES, Hamazato H, Ishii T, Taira K, Takeuchi Y, Takekata H, Isomura N, Takemura A. Does estrogen regulate vitellogenin synthesis in corals? Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2021; 255:110910. [PMID: 33486078 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2021.110910] [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: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Most broadcast spawner corals have a vitellogenic phase that lasts at least 6 months. It is established that estrogen regulates vitellogenin synthesis in vertebrates. Although some research have been conducted on the physiological role of sex steroids in corals, little is known about their involvement in oocyte development. This study aimed to detect steroid hormones - progesterone, testosterone, and estradiol-17β (E2) - in Acropora tenuis and study the relationships between vitellogenesis/vitellogenin synthesis and these steroids. This study also investigated the effect of E2 on vitellogenin synthesis in corals and identified steroidogenic enzymes in A. tenuis genome. Branches from tagged coral colonies were collected monthly from March to November. Histological observations showed that oocytes were vitellogenic from March to May (Stage IV and V), but not in June, and that gonads were occupied by immature oocytes in September (Stage I). Real-time qPCR revealed that vitellogenin (vg1 and vg2) transcript levels in coral branches were high in April and May, implying that corals actively underwent vitellogenesis during these months, and spawned before June. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry revealed that E2 could be detected in coral branches in March, April, and May, but not in June, whereas testosterone and progesterone did not fluctuate much in the same months. Immersing branches in E2-containing seawater failed to increase vitellogenin transcript levels. The results indicate that E2 is involved in oogenesis but does not positively regulate vitellogenin synthesis. Steroidogenic enzymes (except CYP19A) were identified in A. tenuis, suggesting that corals may endogenously synthesize progestogens and androgens from cholesterol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ee Suan Tan
- Graduate School of Engineering and Science, University of the Ryukyus, 1 Senbaru, Nishihara, Okinawa 903-0213, Japan
| | - Hirono Hamazato
- Graduate School of Engineering and Science, University of the Ryukyus, 1 Senbaru, Nishihara, Okinawa 903-0213, Japan
| | - Takahiro Ishii
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of the Ryukyus, 1 Senbaru, Nishihara, Okinawa 903-0213, Japan
| | - Kenshiro Taira
- Okinawa Prefectural Naha International Senior High School, 1-29 Ameku, Naha, Okinawa 900-0005, Japan
| | - Yuki Takeuchi
- Developmental Neurobiology Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST), Onna 904-0412, Japan
| | - Hiroki Takekata
- Organization for Research Promotion, University of the Ryukyus, 1 Senbaru, Nishihara, Okinawa 903-0213, Japan
| | - Naoko Isomura
- Department of Bioresources Engineering, Okinawa National College of Technology, 905 Henoko, Nago-City, Okinawa 905-2192, Japan
| | - Akihiro Takemura
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Marine Science, University of the Ryukyus, 1 Senbaru, Nishihara, Okinawa 903-0213, Japan.
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12
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Fodor I, Urbán P, Scott AP, Pirger Z. A critical evaluation of some of the recent so-called 'evidence' for the involvement of vertebrate-type sex steroids in the reproduction of mollusks. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 516:110949. [PMID: 32687858 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Many studies on the control of reproduction in mollusks have focused on hormones (and proteins associated with the production and signaling of those hormones) which were originally discovered in humans, in the belief that if they are also present in mollusks, they must have the same role. However, although human sex steroids can be found in mollusks, they are so readily absorbed that their presence is not necessarily evidence of endogenous synthesis. A homolog of the vertebrate nuclear estrogen receptor has been found in mollusks, but it does not bind to estrogens or indeed to any steroid at all. Antibodies against human aromatase show positive immunostaining in mollusks, yet the aromatase gene has not been found in the genome of any invertebrates (let alone mollusks). This review will deal with these and other examples of contradictory evidence for a role of human hormones in invertebrate reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- István Fodor
- NAP Adaptive Neuroethology, Department of Experimental Zoology, Balaton Limnological Institute, Centre for Ecological Research, 8237, Tihany, Hungary.
| | - Péter Urbán
- Genomics and Bioinformatics Core Facilities, Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, 7624, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Alexander P Scott
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Research (Cefas), Barrack Road, Weymouth, DT4 8UB, UK
| | - Zsolt Pirger
- NAP Adaptive Neuroethology, Department of Experimental Zoology, Balaton Limnological Institute, Centre for Ecological Research, 8237, Tihany, Hungary
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13
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Koagouw W, Ciocan C. Effects of short-term exposure of paracetamol in the gonads of blue mussels Mytilus edulis. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:30933-30944. [PMID: 31749003 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-06861-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
A growing body of literature suggests that pharmaceutical contamination poses an increasing risk to marine ecosystems. Paracetamol or acetaminophen is the most widely used medicine in the world and has recently been detected in seawater. Here, we present the results of 7 days' exposure of blue mussel adults to 40 ng/L, 250 ng/L and 100 μg/L of paracetamol. Histopathology shows that haemocytic infiltration is the most observed condition in the exposed mussels. The mRNA expression of VTG, V9, ER2, HSP70, CASP8, BCL2 and FAS in mussel gonads present different patterns of downregulation. VTG and CASP8 mRNA expression show downregulation in all exposed mussels, irrespective of sex. The V9, HSP70, BCL2 and FAS transcripts follow a concentration-dependent variation in gene expression and may therefore be considered good biomarker candidates. ER2 mRNA expression shows a downregulated trend, with a clearer dose-response relationship in males. In conclusion, this study suggests that paracetamol has the potential to alter the expression of several genes related to processes occurring in the reproductive system and may therefore impair reproduction in blue mussels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wulan Koagouw
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Lewes Road, Brighton, BN2 4AT, UK
- Bitung Marine Life Conservation Unit, Research Center for Oceanography, Indonesian Institute of Sciences, Jl. Tandurusa, Aertembaga, Bitung, North Sulawesi, Indonesia
| | - Corina Ciocan
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Lewes Road, Brighton, BN2 4AT, UK.
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14
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Fabrello J, Grapputo A, Munari M, Marin MG, Masiero L, Pacchioni B, Millino C, Matozzo V. Molecular and biochemical responses of vitellogenin in the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis exposed to the glyphosate-based herbicide Roundup® Power 2.0. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:26543-26553. [PMID: 32367242 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-08985-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Glyphosate-based herbicides (GBHs) occur in aquatic ecosystems at concentrations of hundreds of micrograms per liter. As formulation adjuvants are suspected to be endocrine-disrupting chemicals, we assessed the effects of the recent GBH formulation Roundup® Power 2.0 on vitellogenin (VTG) in Mytilus galloprovincialis. Mussels were exposed for 7, 14, and 21 days to two concentrations of the commercial formulation, corresponding to 100 and 1000 μg/L of glyphosate. The expression of the vtg gene in gonads of females and males, as well as the levels of alkali labile phosphates (ALP) in gonads and non-gonadal tissues from the two sexes were measured. No significant alterations were observed in vtg expression values during the exposure. Conversely, a significant reduction in gonadal ALP levels was observed in females exposed for 21 days and in males exposed for 7 days. In addition, ALP levels increased significantly in gonads from males exposed for 21 days to the two concentrations of Roundup®. As for non-gonadal tissues, ALP levels did not change significantly in females, whereas ALP levels decreased significantly in non-gonadal tissues from males exposed for 21 days to the lowest concentration tested. An overall statistically significant difference in ALP levels was found between females and males. Although preliminary, our study suggests that GBH can affect reproduction-related parameters in mussels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacopo Fabrello
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131, Padova, Italy
| | - Alessandro Grapputo
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131, Padova, Italy
| | - Marco Munari
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Villa Dohrn-Benthic Ecology Center Ischia, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Gabriella Marin
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131, Padova, Italy
| | - Luciano Masiero
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131, Padova, Italy
| | - Beniamina Pacchioni
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131, Padova, Italy
| | - Caterina Millino
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131, Padova, Italy
| | - Valerio Matozzo
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131, Padova, Italy.
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15
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Fernández-González LE, Diz AP, Gloria Grueiro N, Muniategui-Lorenzo S, Beiras R, Sánchez-Marín P. No evidence that vitellogenin protein expression is induced in marine mussels after exposure to an estrogenic chemical. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 721:137638. [PMID: 32169639 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.137638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
A wide variety of endocrine disrupting chemicals reach the marine environment and can cause harmful effects in different marine organisms. Vitellogenin (Vtg), the egg-yolk precursor, is a commonly used endocrine disruption biomarker in fish and more recently in marine invertebrates under the assumption of high expected similarities in the endocrine system of vertebrates and invertebrates. However, this assumption has been recently questioned. The results from previous studies focused on bivalve molluscs showed that Vtg induction could be misleading because of the use of either non-robust or indirect techniques to measure Vtg. In this study, mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) were exposed to either 10 or 100 ng/L of the synthetic hormone 17α-ethinylestradiol (EE2) at different exposure times (4 and 24 days) and under different feeding regimes (representing different energy balances), and Vtg levels in both male and female mussel gonads were quantified by label free shotgun LC-MS/MS proteomic analysis. Vtg protein was not detected in male gonads. In female gonads, Vtg levels were not significantly affected by EE2 at any exposure time or EE2 concentration tested, whereas a significant correlation was found between the degree of maturation of the gonad and Vtg levels in females. Results obtained in the present study critically question the use of Vtg as a biomarker of endocrine disruption in marine mussels, and show that the degree of maturation of the gonad can be an important confounding factor in the attempts to evaluate estrogenic effects through Vtg measurement in mussel gonads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Emilia Fernández-González
- Departamento de Ecología y Biología Animal, Universidad de Vigo, 36310 Vigo, Galicia, Spain; Centro de Investigaciones Marinas, Universidad de Vigo (CIM-UVIGO), Isla de Toralla, Vigo, Galicia, Spain; Departamento de Bioquímica, Genética e Inmunología, Universidad de Vigo, 36310 Vigo, Galicia, Spain
| | - Angel P Diz
- Centro de Investigaciones Marinas, Universidad de Vigo (CIM-UVIGO), Isla de Toralla, Vigo, Galicia, Spain; Departamento de Bioquímica, Genética e Inmunología, Universidad de Vigo, 36310 Vigo, Galicia, Spain
| | - Noche Gloria Grueiro
- Grupo Química Analítica Aplicada, Instituto Universitario de Medio Ambiente (IUMA), Centro de Investigaciones Científicas Avanzadas (CICA), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de A Coruña, 15071 A Coruña, Galicia, Spain
| | - Soledad Muniategui-Lorenzo
- Grupo Química Analítica Aplicada, Instituto Universitario de Medio Ambiente (IUMA), Centro de Investigaciones Científicas Avanzadas (CICA), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de A Coruña, 15071 A Coruña, Galicia, Spain
| | - Ricardo Beiras
- Departamento de Ecología y Biología Animal, Universidad de Vigo, 36310 Vigo, Galicia, Spain; Centro de Investigaciones Marinas, Universidad de Vigo (CIM-UVIGO), Isla de Toralla, Vigo, Galicia, Spain
| | - Paula Sánchez-Marín
- Departamento de Ecología y Biología Animal, Universidad de Vigo, 36310 Vigo, Galicia, Spain; Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo, Instituto Español de Oceanografía, 36390 Vigo, Galicia, Spain.
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16
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Fernandez MA. Populations Collapses in Marine Invertebrates Due to Endocrine Disruption: A Cause for Concern? Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:721. [PMID: 31736872 PMCID: PMC6828821 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
In the beginning of the twenty first century, the International Program on Chemical Safety published a document entitled Global Assessment of the State-Of-The-Science of Endocrine Disruptors. The work indicated only weak evidence of endocrine-related effects in human populations, and in wild animal populations. This document was revised in 2012 (State of the Science of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals-2012) (1). The new document and the extensive scientific evidence it provided showed clearly that ED effects could be a risk to human and wildlife health. These works, however, were focused in human health and related animal models, mainly vertebrates and particularly mammals. It can be argued that invertebrates and many other taxa are important parts of all ecosystems, and, in many instances, have been shown to be also vulnerable to endocrine disruption. Thus, this work is aimed to show some observations on important marine invertebrate taxa, from an ecological point of view. The most important example of endocrine disruption in marine wild populations is the imposex response of marine gastropods, known for more than 40 years, and worldwide used to evaluate marine antifouling pollution. Among the mollusks, other important natural resources are bivalve species, used as human food sources and cephalopods, free-living, highly specialized mollusks, and also human food sources. Effects derived from endocrine disruptors in these species indicate that consumption could bring these compounds to human populations in an almost direct way, sometimes without any form of cooking or preparation. While discussing these questions, this work is also aimed to stimulate research on endocrine disruption among the invertebrate taxa that inhabited our oceans, and on which these effects are poorly known today.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Antonio Fernandez
- Marine Ecotoxicology Laboratory, Chemical Oceanography Department, Faculty of Oceanography, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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17
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Balbi T, Ciacci C, Canesi L. Estrogenic compounds as exogenous modulators of physiological functions in molluscs: Signaling pathways and biological responses. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2019; 222:135-144. [PMID: 31055067 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2019.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Molluscs have been widely utilized to evaluate the effects of estrogenic compounds, one of the most widespread classes of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals-EDCs. However, knowledge on steroid signaling and metabolism in molluscs has considerably increased in the last decade: from these studies, a considerable debate emerged on the role of 'natural' steroids in physiology, in particular in reproduction, of this invertebrate group. In this work, available information on the effects and mechanisms of action of estrogens in molluscs will be reviewed, with particular emphasis on bivalves that, widespread in aquatic ecosystems, are most likely affected by exposure to estrogenic EDCs. Recent advances in steroid uptake and metabolism, and estrogen receptors-ERs in molluscs, as well as in estrogen signaling in vertebrates, will be considered. The results so far obtained with 17β-estradiol and different estrogenic compounds in the model bivalve Mytilus spp., demonstrate specific effects on immune function, development and metabolism. Transcriptomic data reveal non genomic estrogen signaling pathways in mussel tissues that are supported by new observations at the cellular level. In vitro and in vivo data show, through independent lines of evidence, that estrogens act through non-genomic signaling pathways in bivalves. In this light, regardless of whether molluscs synthesize estrogens de novo or not, and despite their ERs are not directly activated by ligand binding, estrogens can interact with multiple signaling components, leading to modulation of different physiological functions. Increasing knowledge in endocrine physiology of molluscs will provide a framework for a better evaluation and interpretation of data on the impact of estrogenic EDCs in this invertebrate group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Balbi
- Dept. of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Caterina Ciacci
- Dept. of Biomolecular Sciences (DIBS), University 'Carlo Bo' of Urbino, Urbino, Italy
| | - Laura Canesi
- Dept. of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
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18
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Hallmann A, Konieczna L, Swiezak J, Milczarek R, Smolarz K. Aromatisation of steroids in the bivalve Mytilus trossulus. PeerJ 2019; 7:e6953. [PMID: 31198629 PMCID: PMC6535040 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.6953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we demonstrated the presence of the enzymatic complex able to perform aromatization (estrogen synthesis) in both, the microsomal and mitochondrial fractions of gills and gonads from Mytilus trossulus. Based on in vitro experiments, we highlighted the importance of temperature as the limiting factor of aromatisation efficiency (AE) in mussels. After testing range of temperatures (4–23 °C), the highest AE was found during incubation at 8 °C and pH 7.6 (41.66 pmol/h/mg protein in gills and 58.37 pmol/h/mg protein in gonads). The results were confirmed during field studies where the most efficient aromatisation occurred in bivalves collected in spring while the least effective in those collected in winter. During in vitro studies, AE turned out to be more intensive in female gonads than in male gonads. The process was also more intensive in mitochondrial fraction than in microsomal one (62.97 pmol/h/mg protein in male gills and 73.94 pmol/h/mg protein in female gonads). Enzymatic complex (aromatase-like enzyme) catalysing aromatisation in mussels was found to be insensitive to inhibitory effect of selective inhibitors of mammalian aromatase such as letrozole and anastrazole, suggesting its different structure from vertebrate aromatase. Further in vivo studies using 13C-labeled steroids at 8 °C temperature window confirmed that bivalves are able to uptake testosterone and androstenedione from the ambient environment and metabolise them to estrone and 17β-estradiol thus confirming endogenous estrogen’ synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Hallmann
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Lucyna Konieczna
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Justyna Swiezak
- Department of Marine Ecosystem Functioning, University of Gdańsk, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Ryszard Milczarek
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Smolarz
- Department of Marine Ecosystem Functioning, University of Gdańsk, Gdynia, Poland
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19
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Ma F, Han X, An L, Lei K, Qi H, LeBlanc GA. Freshwater snail Parafossarulus striatulus estrogen receptor: Characteristics and expression profiles under lab and field exposure. CHEMOSPHERE 2019; 220:611-619. [PMID: 30597369 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.12.176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/23/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The modes of action by which putative endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) elicit toxicity in mollusks remains unclear due to our limited understanding of the molluscan endocrine system. We identified and partially characterised the estrogen receptor (ER) of the mollusk Parafossarulus striatulus. The full-length cDNA of the ER of P. striatulus (psER) was isolated and found to have an ORF of 1386 bp which corresponded to 461 amino acids. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that psER is an orthologue of ER of other mollusks. Moreover, the DNA-binding domain, ligand-binding domain, P-box, D-box, and AF2 domain were also identified in psER. Exposure of females and males to 17β-estradiol (E2, 100 ng/L) for 24 h and 72 h did not alter psER transcription, but exposure to 17α-methyltestosterone (MT, 100 μg/L) for 72 h significantly decreased ER transcription in females only (p < 0.05). psER transcription was surveyed in males and females seeded in different regions in Taihu Lake, China. psER transcription were elevated among females and males maintained at site ML. This elevation was statistically significant (p < 0.05) among male snails as compared to snails held at the more pristine site of SZ. This was different to the results from lab, implying that some unknown chemicals or other environmental factors in field could affect psER transcription level in snails. Furthermore, females and males held at site ML also exhibited a significant elevation in vitellogenin transcription as compared to snails held at site SZ, suggesting that vitellogenin production may be directly regulated by psER or co-regulated with psER in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fujun Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Xuemei Han
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Lihui An
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China.
| | - Kun Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China.
| | - Hongli Qi
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Aqua-Ecology and Aquaculture, College of Fisheries, Tianjin Agricultural University, Tianjin, 300384, China
| | - Gerald A LeBlanc
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
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20
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Rosati L, Agnese M, Abagnale L, Aniello F, Andreuccetti P, Prisco M. The Mussel
Mytilus galloprovincialis
in the Bay of Naples: New Insights on Oogenic Cycle and Its Hormonal Control. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2019; 302:1039-1049. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.24075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Revised: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Rosati
- Department of BiologyFederico II Naples University Naples Italy
- Dipartimento di Scienze e TecnologieUniversità degli Studi di Napoli “Parthenope” Naples Italy
| | - Marisa Agnese
- Department of BiologyFederico II Naples University Naples Italy
| | - Ludovico Abagnale
- 3th South Naples ASLVeterinary Operative Unit, Torre del Greco Naples Italy
| | | | | | - Marina Prisco
- Department of BiologyFederico II Naples University Naples Italy
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21
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Rosati L, Agnese M, Verderame M, Aniello F, Venditti M, Mita DG, Andreuccetti P, Prisco M. Morphological and molecular responses in ovaries of Mytilus galloprovincialis
collected in two different sites of the Naples Bay. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART 2018; 331:52-60. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.2231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- L. Rosati
- Department of Biology; University of Naples Federico II; Naples Italy
| | - M. Agnese
- Department of Biology; University of Naples Federico II; Naples Italy
| | - M. Verderame
- Department of Biology; University of Naples Federico II; Naples Italy
| | - F. Aniello
- Department of Biology; University of Naples Federico II; Naples Italy
| | - M. Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez, Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate; Università degli studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”; Napoli Italy
| | - D. G. Mita
- Section of Molecular Oncology, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics of CNR; Naples Italy
- Section of Molecular Oncology, National Laboratory on Endocrine Disruptors - Interuniversity Consortium INBB; Naples Italy
| | - P. Andreuccetti
- Department of Biology; University of Naples Federico II; Naples Italy
| | - M. Prisco
- Department of Biology; University of Naples Federico II; Naples Italy
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22
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Scott AP. Is there any value in measuring vertebrate steroids in invertebrates? Gen Comp Endocrinol 2018; 265:77-82. [PMID: 29625121 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [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: 11/29/2017] [Revised: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This brief review questions the belief that just because it is possible to measure vertebrate steroids (such as estradiol-17β, testosterone and progesterone) in the tissues of invertebrates, this necessarily means that they are endogenously derived or are hormones. There is a surprisingly large number of studies, mainly on mollusks, showing that they can readily absorb vertebrate steroids from the environment. They are also able to conjugate these steroids to fatty acids with great efficiency, and subsequently retain them for very long periods (with half-lives measured in weeks rather than days). This, plus the fact that key enzymes that are required for the biosynthesis of vertebrate steroids (e.g. aromatase) do not appear to be present in invertebrates, calls into doubt the claims in many studies on invertebrates that steroid concentrations are functionally linked to reproductive cycles or that invertebrates can be used as biomarker for vertebrate-type endocrine disrupters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander P Scott
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Research (Cefas), Barrack Road, Weymouth DT4 8UB, UK.
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Schwarz TI, Katsiadaki I, Maskrey BH, Scott AP. Uptake and metabolism of water-borne progesterone by the mussel, Mytilus spp. (Mollusca). J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2018; 178:13-21. [PMID: 29107179 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2017.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Revised: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that mussels can pick up 17β-estradiol [E2] and testosterone [T] from water, metabolize them and conjugate them to fatty acids (esterification), leading to their accumulation in tissue. A key requirement for the esterification process is that a steroid must have a 'reactive' hydroxyl group to conjugate to a fatty acid (which in T, and probably E2, is the β-hydroxyl group on carbon 17). Progesterone (P) lacks any hydroxyl groups and theoretically cannot be esterified and hence should not accumulate in mussels in the same way as E2 or T. However, it is already known that mussels have an enzyme that can achieve 5α-reduction of the A ring of T and P and that there is also another reductase that can transform the 3-oxo group of the 5α-reduced A ring of T into a hydroxyl group. We hypothesized that, although intact P cannot be directly esterified, it might nevertheless be transformed into metabolites that can. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the rate and capacity of uptake, metabolism and potential depuration of tritiated P by the common mussel, Mytilus spp. We found that tritiated P was taken up from water at a similar rate to E2 and T (mean clearance rate 49mL-1 animal-1h-1) and that, as found with the other steroids, the rate of uptake could not be saturated by the addition of non-radioactive steroid (even at 7.6μgL-1). We found that up to 66% of the radioactivity that was taken up was present in the ester fraction, suggesting that hydroxylation of the P must indeed have occurred. We then definitively identified two metabolites in the ester fraction: 5α-pregnane-3β,20β-diol and 3β-hydroxy-5α-pregnan-20-one. These same two steroids were also present in the free steroid fraction. Intact P was not detected in either of the fractions. When undergoing depuration (under semi-static conditions), the radioactivity in the ester fractions remained at the same concentration in the animals for at least 10 days. Our findings suggest that the lack of reactive hydroxyl groups on P does not preclude it from being taken up, metabolized and subsequently stored. Many questions remain, not least of which is why, when P seems to be so rapidly metabolized, two previous studies on mussels have reported concentrations of up to 30ngg-1 wet weight of P in their flesh.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamar I Schwarz
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB, UK
| | - Ioanna Katsiadaki
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB, UK.
| | - Benjamin H Maskrey
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB, UK
| | - Alexander P Scott
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB, UK
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Almeida Â, Freitas R, Calisto V, Esteves VI, Schneider RJ, Soares AMVM, Figueira E, Campos B, Barata C. Effects of carbamazepine and cetirizine under an ocean acidification scenario on the biochemical and transcriptome responses of the clam Ruditapes philippinarum. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 235:857-868. [PMID: 29353802 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.12.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2017] [Revised: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/31/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Several works evaluated the toxicity of pharmaceutical drugs and climate related changes in invertebrates but few explored the combined effects of both stressors, namely considering their mode of action (MoA). Carbamazepine (CBZ) and cetirizine (CTZ) are pharmaceutical drugs detected in the environment and the toxicity derived from the combined effects of these drugs with ocean acidification (OA) is poorly explored. Thus, the present study investigated the biochemical parameters related to an oxidative stress response and the transcription of genes related to the MoA of CBZ (1.0 μg/L) and CTZ (0.6 μg/L) in the clam Ruditapes philippinarum chronically exposed (28 days) to control (7.8) and low (7.5) pH conditions. The results obtained showed that despite the clams accumulated both drugs, at low pH the clams exposed to CTZ decreased drug concentration and BCF values (CTZ uptake: 2.0 ± 0.5 ng/g fresh weight; BCF: 3.8 ± 0.9) in comparison with clams exposed to control pH (CTZ uptake: 2.9 ± 0.3 ng/g fresh weight; BCF: 5.5 ± 0.6). No oxidative stress was induced by the exposure to CBZ or CTZ at each pH level, but the transcription of several genes related with the MoA (neurotransmission, immunity and biomineralization) was altered by low pH, drug exposure and the combination of both stressors. At both pH conditions, CBZ increased the transcription of GABA receptor gene (neurotransmission) and CTZ led to a decrease of Perlucin gene (biomineralization) transcription. The transcription of MyD88 gene (immunity) decreased at low pH (7.5) combined with drug exposure (CBZ or CTZ). Thus, it was highlighted that the interaction of drug exposure and low pH conditions can change bivalves' sensitivity to drugs or alter drugs toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ângela Almeida
- Biology Department & CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Rosa Freitas
- Biology Department & CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Vânia Calisto
- Chemistry Department & CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Valdemar I Esteves
- Chemistry Department & CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Rudolf J Schneider
- BAM Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing, Richard-Willstaetter -Str. 11, D-12489 Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Etelvina Figueira
- Biology Department & CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Bruno Campos
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, IDAEA-CSIC, Jordi Girona 18, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlos Barata
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, IDAEA-CSIC, Jordi Girona 18, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
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Prisco M, Agnese M, De Marino A, Andreuccetti P, Rosati L. Spermatogenic Cycle and Steroidogenic Control of Spermatogenesis in Mytilus galloprovincialis Collected in the Bay of Naples. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2017; 300:1881-1894. [PMID: 28658561 DOI: 10.1002/ar.23626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2016] [Revised: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 03/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present article was to study the spermatogenic cycle of Mytilus galloprovincialis collected in the Bay of Naples during a whole year and to acquire new insights into the mechanism of control. Knowledge of the Mytilus cycle in this geographic area is of particular interest as, to the best of our knowledge, the male gonad cycle has been hitherto unexplored. Testis organization was evaluated together with the localization of the enzymes 3β-HSD, 17β-HSD, and P450-aromatase, which are strictly connected to the synthesis of two key hormones involved in the testis activity: testosterone and 17β-estradiol. It was demonstrated that: (1) the spermatogenic cycle starts in late Summer-early Fall and continues until early Winter, when the first spawning occurs; after rapid gonad restoration, several spawning events take place until June, when the testis becomes non-active again; (2) in the testis, true Leydig and Sertoli cells are present; (3) during the reproductive period, Sertoli, Leydig, germ, and adipogranular cells (ADGs) are positive to 3β-HSD and 17β-HSD, while only germ cells are positive to P450 aromatase; by contrast, during the resting period, only ADGs are positive to 3β-HSD and 17β-HSD, and P450-aromatase is no longer recognizable. The presence of a hermaphrodite sample is also described. Anat Rec, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Anat Rec, 300:1881-1894, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Prisco
- Department of Biology, Federico II Naples University, Naples, Italy
| | - Marisa Agnese
- Department of Biology, Federico II Naples University, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Luigi Rosati
- Department of Biology, Federico II Naples University, Naples, Italy
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Schwarz TI, Katsiadaki I, Maskrey BH, Scott AP. Rapid uptake, biotransformation, esterification and lack of depuration of testosterone and its metabolites by the common mussel, Mytilus spp. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2017; 171:54-65. [PMID: 28245981 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2017.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2017] [Revised: 02/11/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The presence of the vertebrate steroids, testosterone (T) and 17β-estradiol in mollusks is often cited as evidence that they are involved in the control of their reproduction. In this paper, we show that a likely source of T in at least one species, the common mussel (Mytilus spp.), is from uptake from water. When mussels were exposed to waterborne tritiated T ([3H]-T) in a closed container, the radioactivity decreased rapidly and exponentially until, by 24h, approximately 35% remained in the water. The rate of uptake of radiolabel could not be saturated by concentrations as high as 16.5μgL-1 (mean measured) of non-radiolabeled T, showing that the animals have a very high capacity for uptake of T. At least 30% of the applied radioactivity could be extracted from the tissues of the animals with organic solvents and most of this (26% of the total applied radioactivity) was in the fatty acid ester fraction. Following alkaline hydrolysis, reverse phase HPLC and TLC, this fraction was shown to consist predominantly of 5α-dihydrotestosterone and 5α-androstane-3β,17β-diol, while T was a minor component. These steroids were definitively identified in the fatty acid ester fraction by mass spectrometry. Overall, less than 5% of the [3H]-T applied to the system remained untransformed at the end of exposure. After ten days of depuration there was no reduction in the total amount of radioactivity in the tissues, nor any changes in the ratio of the metabolites in the ester fraction. These findings show that any association between T presence and reproductive status or sex is confounded by their significant capacity for uptake, and that T undergoes extensive metabolism in mussels in vivo and therefore may not be representative of the androgenic burden of the animals. Consequently, measurements of T in mussel tissue offer little utility as an indicator of reproductive status or sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamar I Schwarz
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB, UK
| | - Ioanna Katsiadaki
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB, UK.
| | - Benjamin H Maskrey
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB, UK
| | - Alexander P Scott
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB, UK
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27
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Expression and DNA methylation pattern of reproduction-related genes in partially fertile triploid Pacific oysters Crassostrea gigas. Genes Genomics 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s13258-017-0563-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Lv L, Dong X, Lv F, Zhao W, Yu Y, Yang W. Molecular cloning and characterization of an estrogen receptor gene in the marine polychaete Perinereis aibuhitensis. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2017; 207:15-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2017.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2016] [Revised: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 02/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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29
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Ge T, Han J, Qi Y, Gu X, Ma L, Zhang C, Naeem S, Huang D. The toxic effects of chlorophenols and associated mechanisms in fish. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2017; 184:78-93. [PMID: 28119128 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2017.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2016] [Revised: 01/11/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Chlorophenols (CPs) are ubiquitous contaminants in the environment primarily released from agricultural and industrial wastewater. These compounds are not readily degraded naturally, and easily accumulate in organs, tissues and cells via food chains, further leading to acute and chronic toxic effects on aquatic organisms. Herein, we review the available literature regarding CP toxicity in fish, with special emphasis on the potential toxic mechanisms. CPs cause oxidative stress via generation of reactive oxygen species, induction of lipid peroxidation and/or oxidative DNA damage along with inhibition of antioxidant systems. CPs affect immune system by altering the number of mature B cells and macrophages, while suppressing phagocytosis and down-regulating the expression of immune factors. CPs also disrupt endocrine function by affecting hormone levels, or inducing abnormal gene expression and interference with hormone receptors. CPs at relatively higher concentrations induce apoptosis via mitochondria-mediated pathway, cell death receptor-mediated pathway, and/or DNA damage-mediated pathway. CPs at relatively lower concentrations promote cell proliferation, and foster cancers-prone environment by increasing the rate of point mutations and oxidative DNA lesions. These toxic effects in fish are induced directly by CPs per se or indirectly by their metabolic products. In addition, recent studies on the alteration of DNA methylation by CPs through high-throughput DNA sequencing analysis provide new insights into our understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms underlying CPs toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Ge
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Jiangyuan Han
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Yongmei Qi
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xueyan Gu
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Lin Ma
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Chen Zhang
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Sajid Naeem
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Dejun Huang
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
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Schwarz TI, Katsiadaki I, Maskrey BH, Scott AP. Mussels (Mytilus spp.) display an ability for rapid and high capacity uptake of the vertebrate steroid, estradiol-17β from water. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2017; 165:407-420. [PMID: 27568213 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2016.08.007] [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: 05/18/2016] [Revised: 08/11/2016] [Accepted: 08/19/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Six experiments were carried out to define the optimum conditions for investigating the dynamics of uptake and metabolism of tritiated E2 from water by adult blue mussels, Mytilus spp. Optimum uptake was achieved using 400mL aerated sea water animal-1 and an incubation period of no more than 24h. The pattern of disappearance conformed closest to an inverse hyperbolic curve with the percentage of radiolabel that could be measured in the water reaching an asymptote that was on average 50% of the original. This apparent inability of the animals to absorb all the radiolabel was investigated further. Solvent partition and chromatography revealed that, after 24h, c. 60% of the radiolabel still present in the water was composed of water soluble conjugates, c. 25% was composed of tritiated water and only 15% ran on and around the chromatographic position of E2. The major water soluble constituent was identified by chromatography and mass-spectrometry as 1,3,5(10)-estratriene-3,17β-diol 3-sulfate (estradiol 3-S). The clearance rate of radiolabel was 46.9±1.8mLanimal-1h-1. This was not significantly affected by the addition of as much as 25μgL-1 cold E2 to the water, demonstrating that mussels have a large capacity for E2 uptake. A new procedure involving solvent partition was developed for separating the free, esterified and sulfated forms of E2 present in the flesh of mussels. This involved extracting the soft tissue with organic solvents and then treating a portion of dried extract with a combination of heptane (dissolved fatty acid esters of E2) and 80% ethanol (dissolved free and sulfated E2). The latter fraction was further partitioned between water (sulfate) and diethyl ether (free steroid). This procedure was much cheaper and less time-consuming than chromatography. Approximately 80% of the radioactivity that was taken up by the animals was present in the form of ester. Moreover, E2 was the only steroid identified after saponification of these esters. Of the remaining radioactivity, c. 10% was in the form of unidentified free steroids and c. 10% was estradiol 3-S. In order to determine how rapidly mussels were able to depurate tritiated E2 and its metabolites, two experiments were carried out. Animals from the first experiment purged up to 63% of radioactivity in 20days under flow-through conditions; whereas animals from the second experiment released only 16% of radioactivity in 10days under semi-static conditions. The ratios of the different forms of E2 did not change substantially during the course of depuration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamar I Schwarz
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB, UK
| | - Ioanna Katsiadaki
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB, UK.
| | - Benjamin H Maskrey
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB, UK
| | - Alexander P Scott
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB, UK
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31
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Nagasawa K, Treen N, Kondo R, Otoki Y, Itoh N, Rotchell JM, Osada M. Molecular characterization of an estrogen receptor and estrogen-related receptor and their autoregulatory capabilities in two Mytilus species. Gene 2015; 564:153-9. [PMID: 25862924 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2015.03.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2014] [Revised: 01/27/2015] [Accepted: 03/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Vertebrate-like sex steroid hormones have been widely detected in mollusks, and numerous experiments have shown the importance of steroids in gonad development. Nevertheless, their signaling pathways in invertebrates have not been uncovered yet. Steroid receptors are an ancient class of transcription factors with multiple roles in not only vertebrates but also invertebrates. Estrogen signaling is thought to have major roles in mollusk physiology, but the full repertoire of estrogen receptors is unknown. We presented the successful cloning of two novel forms of estrogen receptor-like genes. These receptors are present in two closely related species of Mytilus: Mytilus edulis and Mytilus galloprovincialis, commonly known and widely distributed sentinel species. Our phylogenetic analysis revealed that one of these receptors is an estrogen receptor (ER) and the other one is an estrogen-related receptor (ERR). Studies of expression analysis showed that both receptor mRNAs were localized in the oocytes and follicle cells in contact with developing oocytes in the ovary and Sertoli cells in the testis, and in the ciliated cells of the gill. In addition, we have evidence that one (ER) of these may have a capacity to autoregulate its own expression in the gonadal cells by estrogen (E2) and that this gene is responsive to estrogenic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazue Nagasawa
- Laboratory of Aquacultural Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, 1-1 Tsutsumidori-amamiyamachi, Sendai 981-8555, Japan
| | - Nicholas Treen
- Shimoda Marine Research Center, University of Tsukuba, 5-10-1 Shimoda, Shizuoka 415-0025, Japan
| | - Reki Kondo
- Laboratory of Aquacultural Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, 1-1 Tsutsumidori-amamiyamachi, Sendai 981-8555, Japan
| | - Yurika Otoki
- Laboratory of Aquacultural Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, 1-1 Tsutsumidori-amamiyamachi, Sendai 981-8555, Japan
| | - Naoki Itoh
- Laboratory of Aquacultural Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, 1-1 Tsutsumidori-amamiyamachi, Sendai 981-8555, Japan
| | - Jeanette M Rotchell
- School of Biological, Biomedical and Environmental Sciences, University of Hull, Cottingham Rd, Hull HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Makoto Osada
- Laboratory of Aquacultural Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, 1-1 Tsutsumidori-amamiyamachi, Sendai 981-8555, Japan.
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32
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Kaur S, Jobling S, Jones CS, Noble LR, Routledge EJ, Lockyer AE. The nuclear receptors of Biomphalaria glabrata and Lottia gigantea: implications for developing new model organisms. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0121259. [PMID: 25849443 PMCID: PMC4388693 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0121259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2014] [Accepted: 01/29/2015] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Nuclear receptors (NRs) are transcription regulators involved in an array of diverse physiological functions including key roles in endocrine and metabolic function. The aim of this study was to identify nuclear receptors in the fully sequenced genome of the gastropod snail, Biomphalaria glabrata, intermediate host for Schistosoma mansoni and compare these to known vertebrate NRs, with a view to assessing the snail's potential as a invertebrate model organism for endocrine function, both as a prospective new test organism and to elucidate the fundamental genetic and mechanistic causes of disease. For comparative purposes, the genome of a second gastropod, the owl limpet, Lottia gigantea was also investigated for nuclear receptors. Thirty-nine and thirty-three putative NRs were identified from the B. glabrata and L. gigantea genomes respectively, based on the presence of a conserved DNA-binding domain and/or ligand-binding domain. Nuclear receptor transcript expression was confirmed and sequences were subjected to a comparative phylogenetic analysis, which demonstrated that these molluscs have representatives of all the major NR subfamilies (1-6). Many of the identified NRs are conserved between vertebrates and invertebrates, however differences exist, most notably, the absence of receptors of Group 3C, which includes some of the vertebrate endocrine hormone targets. The mollusc genomes also contain NR homologues that are present in insects and nematodes but not in vertebrates, such as Group 1J (HR48/DAF12/HR96). The identification of many shared receptors between humans and molluscs indicates the potential for molluscs as model organisms; however the absence of several steroid hormone receptors indicates snail endocrine systems are fundamentally different.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satwant Kaur
- Institute of Environment, Health and Societies, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, United Kingdom
| | - Susan Jobling
- Institute of Environment, Health and Societies, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, United Kingdom
| | - Catherine S. Jones
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Leslie R. Noble
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Edwin J. Routledge
- Institute of Environment, Health and Societies, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, United Kingdom
| | - Anne E. Lockyer
- Institute of Environment, Health and Societies, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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33
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Zheng BH, An LH, Chang H, Liu Y, Jiang ZQ. Evidence for the presence of sex steroid hormones in Zhikong scallop, Chlamys farreri. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2014; 143:199-206. [PMID: 24662324 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2014.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [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: 10/17/2013] [Revised: 03/05/2014] [Accepted: 03/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
To obtain evidence of the presence of sex steroid hormones in mollusks, hormone variation in the gonads of the Zhikong scallop Chlamys farreri was analyzed using UPLC-MS/MS. These were found, as expected, with concentrations of estrone (E1), 17beta-estradiol (E2), and testosterone (T) in the testes ranging from not detected (ND) to 0.07 ± 0.10, ND to 3.10 ± 2.00, and ND to 2.67 ± 1.55 ng/g wet weight, respectively. In the ovaries, these hormones ranged from ND to 2.45 ± 1.22, ND to 27.90 ± 4.23, and ND to 2.38 ± 1.56 ng/g ww, respectively. The levels of T in males and E2 in females followed a trend similar to the gonadal-somatic index over the course of the reproductive period. In addition, the gene expression of vitellogenin and calmodulin-2 showed similar patterns to T and E2, while the estrogen receptors and calmodulin-1 did not. These results indicate that sex steroids are present in the scallop and that they may regulate endocrine functions during the reproductive process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing-Hui Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment & State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Li-Hui An
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment & State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China.
| | - Hong Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment & State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Ying Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment & State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China; Key laboratory of Mariculture & Stock Enhancement in North China's Sea, Ministry of Agriculture, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Zhi-Qiang Jiang
- Key laboratory of Mariculture & Stock Enhancement in North China's Sea, Ministry of Agriculture, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian 116023, China
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Comparative proteomic analysis of ovary for Chinese rare minnow (Gobiocypris rarus) exposed to chlorophenol chemicals. J Proteomics 2014; 110:172-82. [PMID: 25106787 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2014.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2014] [Revised: 07/09/2014] [Accepted: 07/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Pentachlorophenol (PCP) and 2,4,6-trichlorophenol (TCP) are suspected of disrupting the endocrine system and thus affecting human and wildlife reproduction, but the potential common mechanisms and biomarkers of chlorophenols (CPs) in the ovary are not fully elucidated. In the present study, the female rare minnow (Gobiocypris rarus) was exposed to PCP (0.5, 5.0, and 50 μg/L), TCP (1.0, 10, and 100 μg/L) and 17β-estradiol (as a positive control) for 28 days, and the matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) tandem time-of-flight (TOF/TOF) mass spectrometry analysis was employed to investigate the alteration of protein expression in the ovary. After comparison of the protein profiles from treated and control groups, 22 protein spots were observed to be altered in abundance (>2-fold) from female treated groups, and 14 protein spots were identified successfully. These proteins were related to molecular response patterns, endocrine effects, metabolic pathways, and even the possible carcinogens in response to CP exposure. The seven differentially expressed mRNA encoding proteins were measured by quantitative real-time PCR (QRT-PCR) and histopathology was also measured. Our data demonstrate that alterations of multiple pathways may be associated with the toxic effects of CPs on ovaries. BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE Although numerous studies have shown the affection of the endocrine system with exposure to chlorophenols (CPs), there is little report on the alterations of protein expression in the ovaries from rare minnows following exposure to PCP or TCP. In the present study, a comparative proteomic approach using two dimensional gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/TOF MS) has been developed to identify certain proteins in the ovaries of Chinese rare minnow, whose abundance changes during exposure to CPs. After comparison of the protein profiles from treated and control groups, 22 protein spots were observed to be altered in abundance (>2-fold) from female treated groups, and 14 protein spots were identified successfully. These proteins were related to molecular response patterns, endocrine effects, metabolic pathways, and even the possible carcinogens in response to CP exposure. Because the mechanism often involves changes in the expression of multiple proteins rather than a single protein, a global analysis of the protein alterations can result in valuable information to understand the CP action mechanism. All the above results demonstrate that the Vtg, SUMO, Lec-3 and PIMT protein are potential biomarkers and involved in the toxicity pathway of CP exposure in aquatic animals, which should be the primary focus of studies on the CP ovary toxicity mechanism in the future.
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Falfushynska HI, Gnatyshyna LL, Osadchuk OY, Farkas A, Vehovszky A, Carpenter DO, Gyori J, Stoliar OB. Diversity of the molecular responses to separate wastewater effluents in freshwater mussels. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2014; 164:51-8. [PMID: 24816276 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2014.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2014] [Revised: 04/22/2014] [Accepted: 04/29/2014] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The environmental safety of pharmaceutical and personal care products (PPCPs) requires a crucial examination. The aim of this study was to evaluate the responses of biomarkers of stress and toxicity in freshwater mussels to the effect of commonly found PPCPs in wastewater. We treated male mussels Unio tumidus, from an undisturbed site with ibuprofen (IBU, 250 ng L(-1)), triclosan (TCS, 500 ng L(-1)), or estrone (E1, 100 ng L(-1)) for 14 days. Untreated mussels from this site (C) and mussels inhabiting a polluted area (P) were also examined after a similar time of being kept in the laboratory. The consequences of chronic exposure of the mussels in the P-group were reflected in elevated concentrations of oxyradicals (1.4 times), oxidized glutathione (4.3 times), lipofuscin (2.2 times), and DNA-strand breaks in the digestive gland (DG) in comparison to the C-group, higher levels of caspase-3 activity in the DG, and vitellogenin-like proteins in gonads among all studied groups. Exposed mussels demonstrated some common responses with mussels in the P-group: elevated levels of lactate/pyruvate ratio, lipofuscin (IBU and E1), DNA fragmentation (TCS and E1), and caspase-3 activity (TCS and E1). Exposed to PPCPs mussels also showed elevation of ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase and/or glutathione-S-transferase activity in the DG and a decrease in lysosomal stability in hemocytes (TCS and E1). The TCS group was distinguished by having the highest level of DNA-fragmentation and the lowest concentrations of total glutathione, oxyradicals, lipofuscin, pyruvate, and lactate, reflecting total metabolic depression. These results show that selected PPCPs at low concentrations alter a variety of physiological processes in this animal model system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halina I Falfushynska
- Research Laboratory of Comparative Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Ternopil National Pedagogical University, M. Kryvonosa Str., 2, Ternopil, 46027, Ukraine
| | - Lesya L Gnatyshyna
- Research Laboratory of Comparative Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Ternopil National Pedagogical University, M. Kryvonosa Str., 2, Ternopil, 46027, Ukraine
| | - Olesya Y Osadchuk
- Research Laboratory of Comparative Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Ternopil National Pedagogical University, M. Kryvonosa Str., 2, Ternopil, 46027, Ukraine
| | - Anna Farkas
- Balaton Limnological Institute, Centre for Ecological Research, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Klebelsberg str. 3, Tihany 8237, Hungary
| | - Agnes Vehovszky
- Balaton Limnological Institute, Centre for Ecological Research, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Klebelsberg str. 3, Tihany 8237, Hungary
| | - David O Carpenter
- Institute for Health and the Environment, University at Albany, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA
| | - Janos Gyori
- Balaton Limnological Institute, Centre for Ecological Research, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Klebelsberg str. 3, Tihany 8237, Hungary
| | - Oksana B Stoliar
- Research Laboratory of Comparative Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Ternopil National Pedagogical University, M. Kryvonosa Str., 2, Ternopil, 46027, Ukraine.
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Ni J, Zeng Z, Kong D, Hou L, Huang H, Ke C. Vitellogenin of Fujian oyster, Crassostrea angulata: Synthesized in the ovary and controlled by estradiol-17β. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2014; 202:35-43. [PMID: 24709360 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2013] [Revised: 03/09/2014] [Accepted: 03/12/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we cloned a full-length cDNA encoding vitellogenin (Vg) in the Fujian oyster Crassostrea angulata. The complete Vg cDNA consists of 5160 nucleotides with a long open reading frame encoding 1641 amino acid residues. The deduced amino acid sequence shared high similarity with the Vgs of other mollusc, fish, nematode and arthropod species, particularly in the N-terminal region. We analyzed the spatiotemporal expression of caVg transcripts by Real-time Quantitative PCR. In common with other mollusc Vgs, the caVg gene was expressed primarily in the ovary, and the levels were 348 and 177 times higher in maturation and ripeness stages (P<0.01), respectively, than in the partially spent stage. There was negligible expression in male oysters. In situ hybridization analysis further localized caVg mRNA to the follicle cells (also named auxiliary cells) surrounding the oocytes in the ovary. Moreover, in vivo waterborne exposure experiments in early gametogenesis oysters showed that estradiol-17β (E2) administration resulted in a significant increase in caVg mRNA expression. We conclude that caVg is synthesized in the follicle cell surrounding the vitellogenic oocyte in C. angulata, and directly passed to oocytes through the extracellular space without mediation through hemolymph. Also, we hypothesize that this process is mediated by E2 in a dose dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianbin Ni
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China; College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China; National Marine Hazard Mitigation Service, Beijing 100194, China
| | - Zhen Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China; College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Dezheng Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China; College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Lin Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China; College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Heqing Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Caihuan Ke
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China; College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China.
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Vogeler S, Galloway TS, Lyons BP, Bean TP. The nuclear receptor gene family in the Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas, contains a novel subfamily group. BMC Genomics 2014; 15:369. [PMID: 24885009 PMCID: PMC4070562 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-15-369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2013] [Accepted: 04/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nuclear receptors are a superfamily of transcription factors important in key biological, developmental and reproductive processes. Several of these receptors are ligand- activated and through their ability to bind endogenous and exogenous ligands, are potentially vulnerable to xenobiotics. Molluscs are key ecological species in defining aquatic and terrestrial habitats and are sensitive to xenobiotic compounds in the environment. However, the understanding of nuclear receptor presence, function and xenobiotic disruption in the phylum Mollusca is limited. RESULTS Here, forty-three nuclear receptor sequences were mined from the genome of the Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas. They include members of NR0-NR5 subfamilies, notably lacking any NR6 members. Phylogenetic analyses of the oyster nuclear receptors have been conducted showing the presence of a large novel subfamily group not previously reported, which is named NR1P. Homologues to all previous identified nuclear receptors in other mollusc species have also been determined including the putative heterodimer partner retinoid X receptor, estrogen receptor and estrogen related receptor. CONCLUSION C. gigas contains a highly diverse set of nuclear receptors including a novel NR1 group, which provides important information on presence and evolution of this transcription factor superfamily in invertebrates. The Pacific oyster possesses two members of NR3, the sex steroid hormone receptor analogues, of which there are 9 in humans. This provides increasing evidence that steroid ligand specific expansion of this family is deuterostome specific. This new knowledge on divergence and emergence of nuclear receptors in C. gigas provides essential information for studying regulation of molluscan gene expression and the potential effects of xenobiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Vogeler
- />School of Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD UK
- />Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Cefas Weymouth Laboratory, Barrack Road, Weymouth, DT4 8UB UK
| | - Tamara S Galloway
- />School of Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD UK
| | - Brett P Lyons
- />Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Cefas Weymouth Laboratory, Barrack Road, Weymouth, DT4 8UB UK
| | - Tim P Bean
- />Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Cefas Weymouth Laboratory, Barrack Road, Weymouth, DT4 8UB UK
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Liu J, Zhang Z, Zhang L, Liu X, Yang D, Ma X. Variations of estradiol-17β and testosterone levels correlated with gametogenesis in the gonad of Zhikong scallop (Chlamys farreri) during annual reproductive cycle. CAN J ZOOL 2014. [DOI: 10.1139/cjz-2013-0202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
To assess the potential roles of sex steroids in modulating reproductive processes in the Zhikong scallop (Chlamys farreri (Jones and Preston, 1904)), variations in estradiol-17β (E2) and testosterone (T) levels in gonads were examined monthly from January to December 2012 by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The mean concentrations of E2 and T in gonads ranged from 75.07 to 666.24 pg/g and from 91.09 to 506.28 pg/g, respectively. Concentrations of E2 were significantly higher in ovaries than in testes, while T concentrations were higher in testes than in ovaries during gametogenesis. Concentrations of E2 in females and T in males increased with development and maturation of gonad, attained the highest value before spawning, and decreased rapidly after spawning. A positive correlation between E2 levels and oocyte diameters (r = 0.743, P < 0.05, n = 25) was observed, suggesting that E2 may play a role in oogenesis. These findings indicate that E2 and T, which are highly correlated with the reproductive cycle, may play an important role in sex determination, sex differentiation, gametogenesis, and spawning in C. farreri.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Liu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ministry of Education, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, No. 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Z. Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ministry of Education, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, No. 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, People’s Republic of China
| | - L. Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ministry of Education, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, No. 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, People’s Republic of China
| | - X. Liu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ministry of Education, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, No. 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, People’s Republic of China
| | - D. Yang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ministry of Education, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, No. 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, People’s Republic of China
| | - X. Ma
- Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ministry of Education, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, No. 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, People’s Republic of China
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Matsumoto T, Masaoka T, Fujiwara A, Nakamura Y, Satoh N, Awaji M. Reproduction-related genes in the pearl oyster genome. Zoolog Sci 2013; 30:826-50. [PMID: 24125647 DOI: 10.2108/zsj.30.826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Molluscan reproduction has been a target of biological research because of the various reproductive strategies that have evolved in this phylum. It has also been studied for the development of fisheries technologies, particularly aquaculture. Although fundamental processes of reproduction in other phyla, such as vertebrates and arthropods, have been well studied, information on the molecular mechanisms of molluscan reproduction remains limited. The recently released draft genome of the pearl oyster Pinctada fucata provides a novel and powerful platform for obtaining structural information on the genes and proteins involved in bivalve reproduction. In the present study, we analyzed the pearl oyster draft genome to screen reproduction-related genes. Analysis was mainly conducted for genes reported from other molluscs for encoding orthologs of reproduction-related proteins in other phyla. The gene search in the P. fucata gene models (version 1.1) and genome assembly (version 1.0) were performed using Genome Browser and BLAST software. The obtained gene models were then BLASTP searched against a public database to confirm the best-hit sequences. As a result, more than 40 gene models were identified with high accuracy to encode reproduction-related genes reported for P. fucata and other molluscs. These include vasa, nanos, doublesex- and mab-3-related transcription factor, 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) receptors, vitellogenin, estrogen receptor, and others. The set of reproduction-related genes of P. fucata identified in the present study constitute a new tool for research on bivalve reproduction at the molecular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshie Matsumoto
- 1 Aquaculture Technology Division, National Research Institute of Aquaculture, Fisheries Research Agency, Minami-lse, Watarai, Mie 516-0193, Japan
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Raingeard D, Bilbao E, Cancio I, Cajaraville MP. Retinoid X receptor (RXR), estrogen receptor (ER) and other nuclear receptors in tissues of the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis: Cloning and transcription pattern. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2013; 165:178-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2013.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2013] [Revised: 02/25/2013] [Accepted: 03/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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Scott AP. Do mollusks use vertebrate sex steroids as reproductive hormones? II. Critical review of the evidence that steroids have biological effects. Steroids 2013; 78:268-81. [PMID: 23219696 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2012.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2012] [Revised: 10/22/2012] [Accepted: 11/02/2012] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
In assessing the evidence as to whether vertebrate sex steroids (e.g. testosterone, estradiol, progesterone) have hormonal actions in mollusks, ca. 85% of research papers report at least one biological effect; and 18 out of 21 review papers (published between 1970 and 2012) express a positive view. However, just under half of the research studies can be rejected on the grounds that they did not actually test steroids, but compounds or mixtures that were only presumed to behave as steroids (or modulators of steroids) on the basis of their effects in vertebrates (e.g. Bisphenol-A, nonylphenol and sewage treatment effluents). Of the remaining 55 papers, some can be criticized for having no statistical analysis; some for using only a single dose of steroid; others for having irregular dose-response curves; 40 out of the 55 for not replicating the treatments; and 50 out of 55 for having no within-study repetition. Furthermore, most studies had very low effect sizes in comparison to fish-based bioassays for steroids (i.e. they had a very weak 'signal-to-noise' ratio). When these facts are combined with the fact that none of the studies were conducted with rigorous randomization or 'blinding' procedures (implying the possibility of 'operator bias') one must conclude that there is no indisputable bioassay evidence that vertebrate sex steroids have endocrinological or reproductive roles in mollusks. The only observation that has been independently validated is the ability of estradiol to trigger rapid (1-5 min) lysosomal membrane breakdown in hemocytes of Mytilus spp. This is a typical 'inflammatory' response, however, and is not proof that estradiol is a hormone - especially when taken in conjunction with the evidence (discussed in a previous review) that mollusks have neither the enzymes necessary to synthesize vertebrate steroids nor nuclear receptors with which to respond to them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander P Scott
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Weymouth, Dorset, UK.
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Agnese M, Verderame M, De Meo E, Prisco M, Rosati L, Limatola E, del Gaudio R, Aceto S, Andreuccetti P. A network system for vitellogenin synthesis in the musselMytilus galloprovincialis(L.). J Cell Physiol 2012; 228:547-55. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.24161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2012] [Accepted: 07/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Scott AP. Do mollusks use vertebrate sex steroids as reproductive hormones? Part I: Critical appraisal of the evidence for the presence, biosynthesis and uptake of steroids. Steroids 2012; 77:1450-68. [PMID: 22960651 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2012.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2012] [Revised: 08/16/2012] [Accepted: 08/21/2012] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The consensus view is that vertebrate-type steroids are present in mollusks and perform hormonal roles which are similar to those that they play in vertebrates. Although vertebrate steroids can be measured in molluscan tissues, a key question is 'Are they formed endogenously or they are picked up from their environment?'. The present review concludes that there is no convincing evidence for biosynthesis of vertebrate steroids by mollusks. Furthermore, the 'mollusk' genome does not contain the genes for key enzymes that are necessary to transform cholesterol in progressive steps into vertebrate-type steroids; nor does the mollusk genome contain genes for functioning classical nuclear steroid receptors. On the other hand, there is very strong evidence that mollusks are able to absorb vertebrate steroids from the environment; and are able to store some of them (by conjugating them to fatty acids) for weeks to months. It is notable that the three steroids that have been proposed as functional hormones in mollusks (i.e. progesterone, testosterone and 17β-estradiol) are the same as those of humans. Since humans (and indeed all vertebrates) continuously excrete steroids not just via urine and feces, but via their body surface (and, in fish, via the gills), it is impossible to rule out contamination as the sole reason for the presence of vertebrate steroids in mollusks (even in animals kept under supposedly 'clean laboratory conditions'). Essentially, the presence of vertebrate steroids in mollusks cannot be taken as reliable evidence of either endogenous biosynthesis or of an endocrine role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander P Scott
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB, UK.
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Jubeaux G, Simon R, Salvador A, Lopes C, Lacaze E, Quéau H, Chaumot A, Geffard O. Vitellogenin-like protein measurement in caged Gammarus fossarum males as a biomarker of endocrine disruptor exposure: inconclusive experience. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2012; 122-123:9-18. [PMID: 22710022 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2012.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2012] [Revised: 05/11/2012] [Accepted: 05/22/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
A vitellogenin (Vg) mass spectrometry-based assay was recently developed to actively biomonitor and assess the exposure of the amphipod Gammarus fossarum to endocrine-disrupting chemicals in freshwater hydrosystems. This paper focuses on the appropriate use of this biomarker, which requires good knowledge of its basal level in males and its natural variability related to intrinsic biotic and environmental abiotic factors. To obtain the lowest biomarker variability, we first studied some of these confounding factors. We observed that the spermatogenesis stage did not have an impact on the Vg level, allowing flexibility in the choice of transplanted gammarids. In the second part of the study, males were transplanted in two clean stations for 21 days, with results indicating a spatial and temporal variability of Vg levels. These Vg changes could not be correlated to environmental factors (e.g., temperature, pH and hardness of waters). Vg induction was then assessed in 21 stations having various levels of contamination. Inductions were observed for only two of the impacted stations studied. Under reference and contaminated conditions, a high interindividual variability of Vg levels was observed in caged organisms, severely limiting the sensitivity of the biomarker and its ability to detect a significant endocrine-disruptor effect. This may be explained by unidentified environmental factors that should later be determined to improved the use of Vg as a biomarker in male G. fossarum. Moreover, as discussed in this paper, recent advancements regarding the pleiotropic functions of the Vg gene in some species may complicate the application of this biomarker in males of invertebrate species.
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Zhang H, Pan L, Zhang L. Molecular cloning and characterization of estrogen receptor gene in the scallop Chlamys farreri: expression profiles in response to endocrine disrupting chemicals. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2012; 156:51-7. [PMID: 22507668 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2012.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2012] [Revised: 03/28/2012] [Accepted: 03/31/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
In order to gain insights into the mechanism of sex steroid signaling in molluscs, the full-length cDNA of estrogen receptor (ER) was isolated and characterized from Chlamys farreri for the first time. The positions of cysteine residues and other residues around them that constitute the two zinc finger motifs and the P-box are conserved. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the CfER is an ortholog of the other mollusk ERs. Tissue distribution analysis of the CfER mRNA revealed that the expression of ER mRNA was observed in various tissues, and highest in the gonad of males and females. C. farreri were exposed for 10 days to endocrine disrupting chemicals including Benzo(a)pyrene (B(a)p) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (BDE-47). B(a)p exposure at 0.4 and 2 μg/L caused significant increase in mRNA expression of ER and VTG, but B(a)p at 10 μg/L down-regulated CfER and VTG mRNA expression compared to control. Varying increase of ER and VTG mRNA transcripts was resulted in by BDE-47 at 0.1, 1 and 10 μg/L. These results elucidate potential roles of CfER induced by xenobiotics in C. farreri and can be helpful for investigating the mechanism of sex steroid signaling in bivalve mollusks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, PR China
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Cubero-Leon E, Puinean AM, Labadie P, Ciocan C, Itoh N, Kishida M, Osada M, Minier C, Hill EM, Rotchell JM. Two CYP3A-like genes in the marine mussel Mytilus edulis: mRNA expression modulation following short-term exposure to endocrine disruptors. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2012; 74:32-39. [PMID: 22189070 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2011.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2011] [Revised: 10/06/2011] [Accepted: 11/21/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Members of the vertebrate CYP3A subfamily are involved in the metabolism of steroids and a wide range of xenobiotics. In this study two CYP3A-like mRNAs have been isolated from the mussel (Mytilus edulis), and their seasonal expression profile and modulation by estrogens examined. Sexual dimorphism of CYP3A-like mRNA expression was not observed in mussel gonads of individuals collected throughout a year. Nevertheless, natural variation in gonadal CYP3A-like mRNA expression was observed, with highest levels of CYP3A isoform1 and lowest levels of CYP3A isoform2 mRNA during the maturation and spawning season. Exposure to a 10% sewage treatment works extract did not result in any significant changes in mRNA expression of CYP3A-like. In contrast, exposure to E2 (200 ng/L) and TBT (100 ng/L) significantly down-regulated the expression of CYP3A-like isoform1 but not CYP3A-like isoform2 suggesting differential regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Cubero-Leon
- Department of Biology and Environmental Science, University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton BN1 9QJ, UK
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47
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Stange D, Sieratowicz A, Horres R, Oehlmann J. Freshwater mudsnail (Potamopyrgus antipodarum) estrogen receptor: identification and expression analysis under exposure to (xeno-)hormones. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2012; 75:94-101. [PMID: 21944693 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2011.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2011] [Revised: 08/16/2011] [Accepted: 09/03/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Molluscs are raising attention as ecotoxicological test organisms due to their high diversity and ecological importance. The ovoviviparous prosobranch gastropod Potamopyrgus antipodarum (freshwater mudsnail) responds very sensitively to xenobiotics and has therefore been proposed as OECD standard test organism. Endocrine disrupting chemicals influence the reproduction of P. antipodarum, which can be assessed by embryo numbers in the brood pouch. However, the knowledge about the endocrine system of P. antipodarum is rather limited. The aim of this study was to identify an estrogen receptor in the endocrine system of P. antipodarum and to investigate if this receptor is differentially expressed under exposure to (xeno-)hormones (17α-ethinylestradiol, bisphenol A and 17α-methyltestosterone). The DNA-binding domain of the identified ER-like transcript has an amino acid identity of 92 percent compared to the ER of the gastropod Nucella lapillus (84 percent to human ERα) and 83 percent in the ligand binding domain (38 percent to human ERα). Furthermore, the P. antipodarum ER is transcriptionally regulated as shown by quantitative real-time PCRs of (xeno-)hormone exposed snails. 17α-ethinylestradiol and bisphenol A exposure resulted in a transitory ER-mRNA increase while17α-methyltestosterone caused a transitory reduction of ER-mRNA. In addition the solvent dimethyl sulfoxide had also a modulating effect on the receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Stange
- Department Aquatic Ecotoxicology, Institute for Ecology, Evolution and Diversity, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.
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Identification of reproduction-specific genes associated with maturation and estrogen exposure in a marine bivalve Mytilus edulis. PLoS One 2011; 6:e22326. [PMID: 21818309 PMCID: PMC3144882 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0022326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2011] [Accepted: 06/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background While it is established that vertebrate-like steroids, particularly estrogens (estradiol, estrone) and androgens (testosterone), are present in various tissues of molluscs, it is still unclear what role these play in reproductive endocrinology in such organisms. This is despite the significant commercial shellfishery interest in several bivalve species and their decline. Methodology/Principal Findings Using suppression subtraction hybridisation of mussel gonad samples at two stages (early and mature) of gametogenesis and (in parallel) following controlled laboratory estrogen exposure, we isolate several differentially regulated genes including testis-specific kinases, vitelline lysin and envelope sequences. Conclusions The differentially expressed mRNAs isolated provide evidence that mussels may be impacted by exogenous estrogen exposure.
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Ortiz-Zarragoitia M, Garmendia L, Barbero MC, Serrano T, Marigómez I, Cajaraville MP. Effects of the fuel oil spilled by the Prestige tanker on reproduction parameters of wild mussel populations. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 13:84-94. [DOI: 10.1039/c0em00102c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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Andrew MN, O'Connor WA, Dunstan RH, Macfarlane GR. Exposure to 17α-ethynylestradiol causes dose and temporally dependent changes in intersex, females and vitellogenin production in the Sydney rock oyster. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2010; 19:1440-1451. [PMID: 20700763 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-010-0529-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/21/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Although mounting evidence suggests exposure to estrogenic contaminants increases vitellogenin production in molluscs, demonstration of dose-response relationships and knowledge of the temporal nature of the vitellogenin response with continual exposure is currently lacking for biomarker utility. To address this knowledge gap, adult Sydney rock oysters, Saccostrea glomerata, were exposed to a range of environmentally relevant concentrations of 17α-ethynylestradiol (EE2) (0, 6.25, 12.5, 25 or 50 ng/l) in seawater under laboratory conditions. Vitellogenin induction and gonadal development was assessed following 4, 21 and 49 days exposure to EE2. Vitellogenin was found to increase in a dose dependent manner with EE2 exposure for females (4 and 49 days) and males (4 and 21 days). Histological examination of gonads revealed a number of individuals exhibited intersex (ovotestis) in 50 ng/l EE2 (after 21 days) and in 6.25 and 12.5 ng/l EE2 (after 49 days). Furthermore, a significant shift towards females was observed following 49 days exposure at 50 ng/l EE2 suggesting estrogenic exposure is capable of facilitating a progression for protandric males from male-intersex-female gametal status. Increases in female vitellogenin (4 days) were predictive of later increases in female developmental stages at 21 days and increases in oocyte area following 49 days. Male vitellogenin (4 days) was predictive of decreased male percentages and lower male developmental stages at 49 days. Vitellogenin in S. glomerata is a predictive biomarker of estrogenic exposure and effect if sampled soon after exposure and at the commencement of a gonadal development cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- M N Andrew
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.
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