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Filice M, Caferro A, Amelio D, Impellitteri F, Iovine MA, Porretti M, Faggio C, Gattuso A, Cerra MC, Imbrogno S. The effects of ACE inhibitor Enalapril on Mytilus galloprovincialis: Insights into morphological and functional responses. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2024; 273:107014. [PMID: 38954870 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2024.107014] [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: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
In the last decades, pharmaceuticals have emerged as a new class of environmental contaminants. Antihypertensives, including angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, are of special concern due to their increased consumption over the past years. However, the available data on their putative effects on the health of aquatic animals, as well as the possible interaction with biological systems are still poorly understood. This study analysed whether and to which extent the exposure to Enalapril, an ACE inhibitor commonly used for treating hypertension and heart failure, may induce morpho-functional alterations in the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis, a sentinel organism of water pollution. By mainly focusing on the digestive gland (DG), a target tissue used for analysing the effects of xenobiotics in mussels, the effects of 10-days exposure to 0.6 ng/L (E1) and 600 ng/L (E2) of Enalapril were investigated in terms of cell viability and volume regulation, morphology, oxidative stress, and stress protein expression and localization. Results indicated that exposure to Enalapril compromised the capacity of DG cells from the E2 group to regulate volume by limiting the ability to return to the original volume after hypoosmotic stress. This occurred without significant effects on DG cell viability. Enalapril unaffected also haemocytes viability, although an increased infiltration of haemocytes was histologically observed in DG from both groups, suggestive of an immune response. No changes were observed in the two experimental groups on expression and tissue localization of heat shock proteins 70 (HSPs70) and HSP90, and on the levels of oxidative biomarkers. Our results showed that, in M. galloprovincialis the exposure to Enalapril did not influence the oxidative status, as well as the expression and localization of stress-related proteins, while it activated an immune response and compromised the cell ability to face osmotic changes, with potential consequences on animal performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariacristina Filice
- Dept of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Alessia Caferro
- Dept of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Daniela Amelio
- Dept of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Rende (CS), Italy
| | | | - Maria Assunta Iovine
- Dept of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Naples, Italy
| | - Miriam Porretti
- Dept of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Caterina Faggio
- Dept of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Naples, Italy; Dept of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Alfonsina Gattuso
- Dept of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Maria Carmela Cerra
- Dept of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Sandra Imbrogno
- Dept of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Rende (CS), Italy
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Margiotta-Casaluci L, Owen SF, Winter MJ. Cross-Species Extrapolation of Biological Data to Guide the Environmental Safety Assessment of Pharmaceuticals-The State of the Art and Future Priorities. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2024; 43:513-525. [PMID: 37067359 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The extrapolation of biological data across species is a key aspect of biomedical research and drug development. In this context, comparative biology considerations are applied with the goal of understanding human disease and guiding the development of effective and safe medicines. However, the widespread occurrence of pharmaceuticals in the environment and the need to assess the risk posed to wildlife have prompted a renewed interest in the extrapolation of pharmacological and toxicological data across the entire tree of life. To address this challenge, a biological "read-across" approach, based on the use of mammalian data to inform toxicity predictions in wildlife species, has been proposed as an effective way to streamline the environmental safety assessment of pharmaceuticals. Yet, how effective has this approach been, and are we any closer to being able to accurately predict environmental risk based on known human risk? We discuss the main theoretical and experimental advancements achieved in the last 10 years of research in this field. We propose that a better understanding of the functional conservation of drug targets across species and of the quantitative relationship between target modulation and adverse effects should be considered as future research priorities. This pharmacodynamic focus should be complemented with the application of higher-throughput experimental and computational approaches to accelerate the prediction of internal exposure dynamics. The translation of comparative (eco)toxicology research into real-world applications, however, relies on the (limited) availability of experts with the skill set needed to navigate the complexity of the problem; hence, we also call for synergistic multistakeholder efforts to support and strengthen comparative toxicology research and education at a global level. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:513-525. © 2023 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Margiotta-Casaluci
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stewart F Owen
- Global Sustainability, AstraZeneca, Macclesfield, Cheshire, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew J Winter
- Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, Devon, United Kingdom
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Henneberger L, Klüver N, Mühlenbrink M, Escher B. Trout and Human Plasma Protein Binding of Selected Pharmaceuticals Informs the Fish Plasma Model. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2022; 41:559-568. [PMID: 33201515 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Concerns are increasing that pharmaceuticals released into the environment pose a risk to nontarget organism such as fish. The fish plasma model is a read-across approach that uses human therapeutic blood plasma concentrations for estimating likely effects in fish. However, the fish plasma model neglects differences in plasma protein binding between fish and humans. Because binding data for fish plasma are scarce, the binding of 12 active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs; acidic, basic, and neutral) to rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and human plasma was measured using solid-phase microextraction (SPME). The plasma/water distribution ratios (D plasma/w ) of neutral and basic APIs were similar for trout and human plasma, differing by no more than a factor of 2.7 for a given API. For the acidic APIs, the D plasma/w values of trout plasma were much lower than for human plasma, by up to a factor of 71 for naproxen. The lower affinity of the acidic APIs to trout plasma compared with human plasma suggests that the bioavailability of these APIs is higher in trout. Read-across approaches like the fish plasma model should account for differences in plasma protein binding to avoid over- or underestimation of effects in fish. For the acidic APIs, the effect ratio of the fish plasma model would increase by a factor of 5 to 60 if the unbound plasma concentrations were used to calculate the effect ratio. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:559-568. © 2020 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nils Klüver
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, Leipzig, Germany
| | | | - Beate Escher
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, Leipzig, Germany
- Center for Applied Geoscience, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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Zeitler EF, Cecala KK, McGrath DA. Carryover effects minimized the positive effects of treated wastewater on anuran development. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 289:112571. [PMID: 33866133 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.112571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Constructed wetlands (CWs) are a potential solution for wastewater treatment due to their capacity to support native species and provide tertiary wastewater treatment. However, CWs can expose wildlife communities to excess nutrients and harmful contaminants, affecting their development, morphology, and behavior. To examine how wastewater CWs may affect wildlife, we raised Southern leopard frogs, Lithobates sphenocephalus, in wastewater from conventional secondary lagoon and tertiary CW treatments for comparison with pondwater along with the presence and absence of a common plant invader to these systems - common duckweed (Lemna minor) - and monitored their juvenile development for potential carryover effects into the terrestrial environment. The tertiary CW treatment did not change demographic or morphological outcomes relative to conventional wastewater treatment in our study. Individuals emerging from both wastewater treatments demonstrated lower terrestrial survival rates than those emerging from pondwater throughout the experiment though experiment-wide survival rates were equivalent among treatments. Individuals from wastewater treatments transformed at larger sizes relative to those in pondwater, but this advantage was minimized in the terrestrial environment. Individuals that developed with duckweed had consistent but marginally better performance in both environments. Our results suggest a potential trade-off between short-term benefits of development in treated effluent and long-term consequences on overall fitness. Overall, we demonstrate that CWs for the purpose of wastewater treatment may not be suitable replicates for wildlife habitat and could have consequences for local population dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma F Zeitler
- Department of Biology, University of the South, Sewanee, TN, 37383, USA
| | - Kristen K Cecala
- Department of Biology, University of the South, Sewanee, TN, 37383, USA.
| | - Deborah A McGrath
- Department of Biology, University of the South, Sewanee, TN, 37383, USA
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Chang ED, Town RM, Owen SF, Hogstrand C, Bury NR. Effect of Water pH on the Uptake of Acidic (Ibuprofen) and Basic (Propranolol) Drugs in a Fish Gill Cell Culture Model. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:6848-6856. [PMID: 33724810 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c06803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Water pH is predicted to affect the uptake of ionizable pharmaceuticals in fish. The current study used an in vitro primary fish gill cell culture system to assess the effect of pH values in the range of 4.5-8.75 on the uptake rates of the base propranolol (pKa 9.42) and the acid ibuprofen (pKa 4.59). The rate-limiting step in the uptake was the diffusive supply flux of the unionized form from the water to the apical membrane, with subsequent rapid transfer across the epithelium. Computed uptake rate based on the unionized fraction best described the uptake of propranolol and ibuprofen over the range of pH values 5-8 and 6-8.75, respectively. For ibuprofen, the computed uptake rate overestimated the uptake below pH 6 where the unionized fraction increased from 4% at pH 6 to 55% at pH 4.5. As the unionized fraction increased, the uptake rate plateaued suggesting a saturation of the transport process. For both drugs, large variations in the uptake occur with only small fluctuations in pH values. This occurs between pH values 6 and 8, which is the pH range acceptable in regulatory test guidelines and seen in most of our freshwaters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Dohmann Chang
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, King's College London, Franklin Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Raewyn M Town
- Systemic Physiological and Ecotoxicological Research (SPHERE), Department of Biology, Universiteit Antwerpen, Groenenborgerlaan 171, Antwerpen 2020, Belgium
| | - Stewart F Owen
- AstraZeneca, Global Sustainability, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK10 4TF, United Kingdom
| | - Christer Hogstrand
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, King's College London, Franklin Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Nic R Bury
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, King's College London, Franklin Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
- University of Suffolk, School of Engineering, Arts, Science and Technology, James Hehir Building, Suffolk Sustainability Institute, University Quays, Ipswich, Suffolk IP3 0AQ, United Kingdom
- Suffolk Sustainability, University of Suffolk, Waterfront Building, Neptune Quay, Ipswich IP4 1QJ, U.K
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Pereira BVR, da Silva-Zacarin ECM, Costa MJ, Dos Santos ACA, Nunes B. Immunodetection of heat shock protein 70 and cell death in liver of a neotropical fish acutely and chronically exposed to acetaminophen and propranolol. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:11233-11244. [PMID: 33113063 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-11264-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The use of pharmaceutical drugs ends frequently in their inappropriate disposal and treatment at waste water treatment plants, which is the cause of their widespread presence in the environment. Yet, there is limited understanding or knowledge of their effects to non-target aquatic organisms. The drugs acetaminophen (analgesic and antipyretic) and propranolol (β-blocker) are widely found in the aquatic environment, where they can interact with non-target exposed organisms, causing adverse effects. Heat shock proteins (namely HSP70) are molecular chaperones which help to refold misfolded cellular proteins, and the increase in their in vivo levels indicates a change in the cell to counteract the proteotoxic effects of the triggered stress, namely which is consequent to exposure to toxicants. The objective of this study was to quantify the levels of liver HSP70 proteins in individuals of the neotropical fish species Phalloceros harpagos, acutely and chronically exposed to concentrations of acetaminophen and propranolol, in the range of those already determined to occur in the wild. Fish acutely exposed to acetaminophen (concentrations of 8, 80, 800, and 8000 μg L-1) and to propranolol (levels of 1, 10, and 1000 μg L-1) evidenced increased intensity of HSP70 immunolabeling in liver cells. Similarly, animals chronically exposed to propranolol, at concentrations of 0.0625, 0.125, 0.25, and 0.5 μg L-1, showed a comparable trend. This finding suggests the triggering of a cytoprotective effect that was effective in preventing cell death in exposed groups in relation to the control group. In contrast, chronic exposure to acetaminophen caused a decrease in HSP70 labeling intensity in fish hepatocytes (animals exposed to 5, 10, 20, 40, and 80 μg L-1), with no induction of DNA fragmentation in the nuclei of hepatocytes of these fish. Some of the hepatic HSP70 responses observed in this study were obtained at levels already reported to occur in the wild. Finally, this study showed how levels of acetaminophen at microliter concentration can exert side effects on non-target organisms after chronic exposure, suggesting that environmentally exposed organisms may be subjected to adverse conditions that modify the typical response pattern of HSP70 levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Vieira Ramos Pereira
- Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia e Monitoramento Ambiental, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia João Leme dos Santos km 110, Itinga, Sorocaba, SP, 18052-780, Brazil
| | - Elaine Cristina Mathias da Silva-Zacarin
- Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia e Monitoramento Ambiental, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia João Leme dos Santos km 110, Itinga, Sorocaba, SP, 18052-780, Brazil.
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia João Leme dos Santos km 110, Itinga, Sorocaba, SP, 18052-780, Brazil.
| | - Monica Jones Costa
- Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia e Monitoramento Ambiental, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia João Leme dos Santos km 110, Itinga, Sorocaba, SP, 18052-780, Brazil
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia João Leme dos Santos km 110, Itinga, Sorocaba, SP, 18052-780, Brazil
| | - André Cordeiro Alves Dos Santos
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia João Leme dos Santos km 110, Itinga, Sorocaba, SP, 18052-780, Brazil
| | - Bruno Nunes
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
- Centro de Estudos do Ambiente e do Mar (CESAM), Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
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7
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Goncin U, Ton N, Reddy A, El Kaffas A, Brinkmann M, Machtaler S. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound imaging for assessing organ perfusion in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 750:141231. [PMID: 33182180 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) imaging has great potential as a non-lethal, inexpensive monitoring tool in aquatic toxicology. It is a well-established clinical imaging approach that combines real-time, quantitative assessment of organ blood flow, with morphological data. In humans, it has been extensively used to measure changes in blood flow that can be attributed to cancer, inflammation, and other biological abnormalities. However, it has yet to be explored as a tool for fish physiology or environmental toxicology. In this study, our goal was to determine if CEUS could be used to visualize and measure blood flow in the liver of a rainbow trout. All rainbow trout received two injections of an ultrasound contrast agent, microbubbles. A subset received a third injection after administration of propranolol, a non-specific beta1 & 2-blocker, to determine if changes in blood flow could be detected. Ultrasound contrast time-intensity curves (TIC) were obtained, fit to a lognormal model, and different perfusion parameters were calculated. Contrast enhancement was observed in all rainbow trout livers, with high percentage between repeated measurements, including blood flow (80.6 ± 27.3%), area under the curve (73.2 ± 14%), blood volume (84 ± 14.2%) and peak enhancement (86.7 ± 7.5%). After administration of propranolol, we detected a non-significant (p > 0.05) increase in area under the curve (102.6 ± 44.2%), peak enhancement (77.3 ± 106.4), blood volume (48.2 ± 74.5%), and decrease in hepatic blood flow (-17.3 ± 37.1%). These data suggest that CEUS imaging is suitable to measure organ blood flow in fish, and demonstrates tremendous potential for exploring different organs, fish species, and effects of chemical contaminants in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Una Goncin
- Department of Medical Imaging, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Ngoc Ton
- Department of Medical Imaging, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Ashwin Reddy
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ahmed El Kaffas
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Markus Brinkmann
- School of Environment and Sustainability (SENS), University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada; Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada; Global Institute for Water Security (GIWS), University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Steven Machtaler
- Department of Medical Imaging, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
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Korekar G, Kumar A, Ugale C. Occurrence, fate, persistence and remediation of caffeine: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:34715-34733. [PMID: 31811612 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-06998-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Pharmaceutical and personal care products (PPCPs) have gained attention in recent years due to their continuous discharge in natural waters. Their persistence in the environment has impacted flora, fauna and human being worldwide. One of the most common PPCPs is caffeine (1, 3, 7-trimethylxanthine) which acts as a stimulant to the central nervous system in humans and is found in nature in about 60 plant species, especially in coffee, tea and cacao plants. Here we discuss the evidence with respect to caffeine occurrence, its persistence and remediation in light of increasing knowledge and the impact of caffeine on the environment. Daily intake of caffeine around the world is found to increase due to the frequent introduction of new caffeinated beverages as well as increased consumption of coffee, tea and carbonated soft drinks, which has led to increase in its concentration in water bodies including agricultural soil. The caffeine concentration in different water system, studied by various authors is also described. Diverse effects of the use of caffeine on several organisms including humans are also briefly presented. Therefore, urgent attention for the removal of caffeine and its derivatives is the need of the hour. Various methods described in literature for caffeine degradation/removal is also presented. Another widely used technique in environmental remediation is molecular imprinting (MIP); however, only few MIPs have been demonstrated for caffeine which is also discussed. Regular monitoring can be useful to control toxic effects of caffeine. Graphical abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Girish Korekar
- Department of Chemistry, Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology (VNIT), Nagpur, Maharashtra, 440010, India
| | - Anupama Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology (VNIT), Nagpur, Maharashtra, 440010, India.
| | - Chetna Ugale
- Department of Botany, Indira Mahavidyalaya Kalamb, Dist. Yavatmal, Maharashtra, 445401, India
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Zhang K, Zhao Y, Fent K. Cardiovascular drugs and lipid regulating agents in surface waters at global scale: Occurrence, ecotoxicity and risk assessment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 729:138770. [PMID: 32361434 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.138770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Cardiovascular drugs and lipid regulating agents have emerged as major groups of environmental contaminants over the past decades. However, knowledge about their occurrence in freshwaters and their ecotoxicity is still limited. Here, we critically summarize the presence of 82 cardiovascular drugs and lipid regulating agents at a global-scale and represent their effects on aquatic organisms. Only about 71% of these pharmaceuticals in use have been analyzed for their residues in aquatic ecosystems and only about 24% for their effects. When detected in surface waters, they occurred at concentrations of dozens to hundreds of ng/L. In wastewaters, they reached up to several μg/L. Effects of cardiovascular drugs and lipid regulating agents have been extensively studied in fish and a few in invertebrates, such as Daphnia magna and mussels. These pharmaceuticals affect cardiac physiology, lipid metabolism, growth and reproduction. Besides, effects on spermatogenesis and neurobehavior are observed. Environmental risks are associated with beta-blockers propranolol, metoprolol, and lipid lowering agents bezafibrate and atorvastatin, where adverse effects (biochemical and transcriptional) occurred partially at surface water concentrations. In some cases, reproductive effects occurred at environmentally relevant concentrations. This review summarizes the state of the art on the occurrence of cardiovascular drugs and lipid regulating agents at a global-scale and highlights their risks to fish. Further research is needed to include more subtle changes on heart function and to explore non-investigated drugs. Their occurrence in freshwaters and impact on a diverse array of aquatic organisms are particularly needed to fully assess their environmental hazards and risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yanbin Zhao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China.
| | - Karl Fent
- University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, School of Life Sciences, Hofackerstrasse 30, CH-4132 Muttenz, Switzerland
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Hubená P, Horký P, Grabic R, Grabicová K, Slavík O, Randák T. Environmentally relevant levels of four psychoactive compounds vary in their effects on freshwater fish condition: a brain concentration evidence approach. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9356. [PMID: 32714655 PMCID: PMC7354837 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The aquatic environment has been contaminated with various anthropogenic pollutants, including psychoactive compounds that may alter the physiology and behavior of free-living organisms. The present study focused on the condition and related mortality of the juvenile chub (Squalius cephalus). The aim of the study was to test whether the adverse effects of the antidepressants sertraline and citalopram, the analgesic tramadol and the illicit drug methamphetamine, on fish condition exist under environmentally relevant concentrations and whether these effects persist after a depuration period. Innovative analyses of the fish brain concentrations of these compounds were performed with the aim to show relationship between compound brain tissue concentration and fish condition. Methods The laboratory experiment consisted of 42 days of exposure and a subsequent 14-day depuration period with regular monitoring of the condition and mortality of exposed and control fish. Identical methodology, including individual brain concentration analyses for the tested compounds, was applied for all substances. Additional study on feeding under sertraline exposure was also conducted. The feeding was measured from the 28th day of the exposure, three times in a week, by observation of food intake during 15 minutes in social environment. Results The effects of particular psychoactive compounds on chub condition varied. While sertraline induced a lower condition and increased mortality, the effects of methamphetamine were inverse, and tramadol and citalopram had no significant effect at all. Individual brain concentrations of the tested compounds showed that the effects of sertraline and methamphetamine on fish condition were increased with brain concentration increases. Additionally, the food intake was reduced in case of sertraline. In contrast, there was no relationship between tramadol and citalopram brain tissue concentration and fish condition, suggesting that the concentration-dependent effect is strongly compound-specific. Methamphetamine was the only compound with a persistent effect after the depuration period. Our results demonstrate the suitability of the brain concentration evidence approach and suggest that changes in fish condition and other related parameters can be expected in freshwater ecosystems polluted with specific psychoactive compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavla Hubená
- Department of Zoology and Fisheries, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Horký
- Department of Zoology and Fisheries, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Roman Grabic
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Vodňany, Czech Republic
| | - Kateřina Grabicová
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Vodňany, Czech Republic
| | - Ondřej Slavík
- Department of Zoology and Fisheries, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Randák
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, South Bohemian Research Center of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Vodňany, Czech Republic
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11
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Duarte IA, Reis-Santos P, Novais SC, Rato LD, Lemos MFL, Freitas A, Pouca ASV, Barbosa J, Cabral HN, Fonseca VF. Depressed, hypertense and sore: Long-term effects of fluoxetine, propranolol and diclofenac exposure in a top predator fish. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 712:136564. [PMID: 31945523 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.136564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2020] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Pharmaceutical compounds are continuously released into the aquatic environment, resulting in their ubiquitous presence in many estuarine and coastal systems. As pharmaceuticals are designed to produce effects at very low concentrations and target specific evolutionary conserved pathways, there are growing concerns over their potential deleterious effects to the environment and specifically to aquatic organisms, namely in early life-stages. In this context, the long-term effects of exposure of juvenile meagre Argyrosomus regius to three different pharmaceuticals were investigated. Fish were exposed to environmental concentrations of one of three major used pharmaceuticals: the antidepressant fluoxetine (0.3 and 3 μg/L for 15 days), the anti-hypertensive propranolol and the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent diclofenac (0.3 and 15 μg/L for 30 days). Pharmaceuticals bioconcentration in fish muscle was examined, along with biomarkers in different tissues related with antioxidant and biotransformation responses (catalase, superoxide dismutase, ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase and glutathione S-transferase), energetic metabolism (lactate dehydrogenase, isocitrate dehydrogenase and electron transport system activities), neurotransmission (acetylcholinesterase activity) and oxidative damage (DNA damage and lipid peroxidation levels). Overall, each pharmaceutical had different potential for bioconcentration in the muscle (FLX > PROP > DCF) and induced different biological responses: fluoxetine was the most toxic compound to juvenile meagre, affecting fish growth, triggering antioxidant defense responses, inhibiting detoxification mechanisms and increasing lipid peroxidation and DNA damage in the liver; propranolol exposure increased DNA damage and decreased aerobic metabolism in fish muscle; and diclofenac showed no potential to bioconcentrate, yet it affected fish metabolism by increasing cellular energy consumption in the muscle and consequently reducing fish net energy budget. The diverse response patterns evidence the need for future research focused on pharmaceuticals with different modes of action and their exposure effects on organismal physiological mechanisms and homeostatic status. Ultimately, the combination of sub-individual and individual responses is key for ecologically relevant assessments of pharmaceutical toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina A Duarte
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Patrick Reis-Santos
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; Southern Seas Ecology Laboratories, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Sara C Novais
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ESTM, Polytechnic of Leiria, Peniche, Portugal
| | - Lénia D Rato
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ESTM, Polytechnic of Leiria, Peniche, Portugal
| | - Marco F L Lemos
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, ESTM, Polytechnic of Leiria, Peniche, Portugal
| | - Andreia Freitas
- INIAV - Instituto Nacional de Investigação Agrária e Veterinária, Vila do Conde, Portugal; REQUIMTE/LAQV, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Sofia Vila Pouca
- INIAV - Instituto Nacional de Investigação Agrária e Veterinária, Vila do Conde, Portugal
| | - Jorge Barbosa
- INIAV - Instituto Nacional de Investigação Agrária e Veterinária, Vila do Conde, Portugal; REQUIMTE/LAQV, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Vanessa F Fonseca
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
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12
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Di Lorenzo T, Di Cicco M, Di Censo D, Galante A, Boscaro F, Messana G, Paola Galassi DM. Environmental risk assessment of propranolol in the groundwater bodies of Europe. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 255:113189. [PMID: 31542673 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.113189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
A growing concern for contamination due to pharmaceutical compounds in groundwater is expanding globally. The β-blocker propranolol is a β-adrenoceptors antagonist commonly detected in European groundwater bodies. The effect of propranolol on stygobiotic species (obligate groundwater dweller species) is compelling in the framework of environmental risk assessment (ERA) of groundwater ecosystems. In fact, in Europe, ERA procedures for pharmaceuticals in groundwater are based on data obtained with surrogate surface water species. The use of surrogates has aroused some concern in the scientific arena since the first ERA guideline for groundwater was issued. We performed an ecotoxicological and a behavioural experiment with the stygobiotic crustacean species Diacyclops belgicus (Copepopda) to estimate a realistic value of the Predicted No Effect Concentration (PNEC) of propranolol for groundwater ecosystems and we compared this value with the PNEC estimated based on EU ERA procedures. The results of this study showed that i) presently, propranolol does not pose a risk to groundwater bodies in Europe at the concentrations shown in this study and ii) the PNEC of propranolol estimated through the EU ERA procedures is very conservative and allows to adequately protect these delicate ecosystems and their dwelling fauna. The methodological approach and the results of this study represent a first contribution to the improvement of ERA of groundwater ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Di Lorenzo
- Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems (IRET-CNR), Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy.
| | - Mattia Di Cicco
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio 1, Coppito, 67100, 10 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Davide Di Censo
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio 1, Coppito, 67100, 10 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Angelo Galante
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio 1, Coppito, 67100, 10 L'Aquila, Italy; Institute for superconductors, oxides and other innovative materials and devices, National Research Council (CNR-SPIN), Via Vetoio 1, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare (INFN), Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso, Assergi, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Francesca Boscaro
- Mass Spectrometry Center, University of Florence, Via U. Schiff 6, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Messana
- Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems (IRET-CNR), Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Diana Maria Paola Galassi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio 1, Coppito, 67100, 10 L'Aquila, Italy
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13
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Weil M, Falkenhain AM, Scheurer M, Ryan JJ, Coors A. Uptake and Effects of the Beta-Adrenergic Agonist Salbutamol in Fish: Supporting Evidence for the Fish Plasma Model. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2019; 38:2509-2519. [PMID: 31343770 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/06/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The fish plasma model (FPM) predicts the fish blood plasma concentration of a pharmaceutical from the water concentration to which the fish is exposed and compares it with the human therapeutic plasma concentration (Hther PC) with the postulate that no adverse toxic effects occur below the Hther PC. The present study provides several lines of evidence supporting the FPM for the beta-adrenergic agonist salbutamol, a small cationic molecule at ambient pH. Salbutamol exhibited very low acute toxicity to early and adult life stages of fish. Biomass reduction in fish early life stages was the most sensitive apical endpoint, with no-observed-effect concentrations (NOECs) in the low mg/L range after continuous exposure for up to 120 d. Given that predicted and measured environmental concentrations are at least 1000-fold lower, the risk of salbutamol in freshwater is deemed very low. Increase in heart beat rate and decrease in total triglyceride content in fish also occurred at the low mg/L range and resembled effects known from humans. This finding supports the FPM assumption of conserved targets in fish with similar functionality. Plasma concentrations measured in adult and juvenile fish exposed to water concentrations at approximately the NOECs exceeded Hther PC and even approached plasma concentrations toxic to humans. This result confirms for salbutamol the FPM hypothesis that no adverse (i.e., population-relevant) toxic effects occur in fish below the Hther PC. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:2509-2519. © 2019 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirco Weil
- ECT Oekotoxikologie, Flörsheim/Main, Germany
| | | | | | - Jim J Ryan
- Environment, Health, Safety and Sustainability, GlaxoSmithKline, Ware, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Anja Coors
- ECT Oekotoxikologie, Flörsheim/Main, Germany
- Environment Department, University of York, Heslington, York, UK
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14
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Miller TH, Ng KT, Bury ST, Bury SE, Bury NR, Barron LP. Biomonitoring of pesticides, pharmaceuticals and illicit drugs in a freshwater invertebrate to estimate toxic or effect pressure. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2019; 129:595-606. [PMID: 31053240 PMCID: PMC6554641 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2019.04.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Multiple classes of environmental contaminants have been found in aquatic environments, globally. Understanding internalised concentrations in the organism could further improve the risk assessment process. The present study is concerned with the determination of several contaminant classes (107 compounds) in Gammarus pulex collected from 15 sites covering 5 river catchments across Suffolk, UK. Quantitative method performance was acceptable for 67 compounds including pharmaceuticals, pesticides, illicit drugs and drugs of abuse. A total of 56 compounds were detectable and ranged from
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas H Miller
- Department of Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, School of Population Health & Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, UK.
| | - Keng Tiong Ng
- Department of Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, School of Population Health & Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, UK
| | - Samuel T Bury
- St Olaves Grammer School, Goddington Lane, Orpington, BR6 9SH, UK
| | - Sophie E Bury
- Department of Pyschology, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham, Surrey TW20 0EX, UK
| | - Nicolas R Bury
- School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of Suffolk, James Hehir Building, University Avenue, Ipswich, Suffolk IP3 0FS, UK; Suffolk Sustainability Institute, University of Suffolk, Waterfront Building, Neptune Quay, Ipswich IP4 1QJ, UK
| | - Leon P Barron
- Department of Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, School of Population Health & Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, UK
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15
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Qu H, Ma R, Wang B, Yang J, Duan L, Yu G. Enantiospecific toxicity, distribution and bioaccumulation of chiral antidepressant venlafaxine and its metabolite in loach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus) co-exposed to microplastic and the drugs. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2019; 370:203-211. [PMID: 29706475 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2018.04.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2017] [Revised: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
In present study, we investigated the enantioselective behaviors of the chiral antidepressant venlafaxine and its metabolite O-desmethylvenlafaxine in loach Misgurnus anguillicaudatus (M. anguillicaudatus), as well as effects of microplastic on toxicity, distribution and metabolism through a 40-day co-exposure. The contents of SOD and MDA in loach liver elevated when the loach was exposed to venlafaxine and O-desmethylvenlafaxine. Moreover, co-exposure with microplastic might lead to more adverse effect against loach. The distribution of venlafaxine and O-desmethylvenlafaxine were both detected in loach tissues and liver subcellular. The concentrations of venlafaxine and O-desmethylvenlafaxine were lower in water in microplastic-present treatment. Whilst, more contaminants were accumulated in liver through the "vehicle" (microplastic). Enantioselective behavior of venlafaxine and O-desmethylvenlafaxine occurred with R-enantiomers being preferentially degraded. With microplastic present, the bioaccumulation factor (BAF) of venlafaxine and O-desmethylvenlafaxine in loach tissue amplified more than 10 times. In liver subcellular structure, microplastic may help to transport more compounds into subtle areas and postpone the contaminants metabolism in organisms. The present study for the first time gained an insight into the potential ecological effects and environmental behaviors of combined pollutions of chiral pharmaceuticals and microplastic, which could supply important information for environment risk assessment of concurrent organic pollutants and microplastic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Qu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Organic Contaminants Control, State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Ruixue Ma
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Health Risk Assessment, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Environmental Protection, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Organic Contaminants Control, State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
| | - Jian Yang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Organic Contaminants Control, State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Lei Duan
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Organic Contaminants Control, State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Gang Yu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Emerging Organic Contaminants Control, State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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16
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Gomes A, Correia AT, Nunes B. Worms on drugs: ecotoxicological effects of acetylsalicylic acid on the Polychaeta species Hediste diversicolor in terms of biochemical and histological alterations. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:13619-13629. [PMID: 30919192 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-04880-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Pharmaceuticals are important environmental stressors since they have a worldwide use; they are usually released in the aquatic compartment without adequate treatment, and because of their intrinsic properties, they may affect several non-target organisms. Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), the active substance of aspirin, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, being one of the most widely prescribed analgesics in human medical care. Consequently, this compound is systematically reported to occur in the wild, where it may exert toxic effects on non-target species, which are mostly uncharacterized so far. The objective of the present work was to assess the acute and chronic effects of ASA on selected oxidative stress biomarkers [catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GRed), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferase (GST)], lipid peroxidation (thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance), and histological alterations in the polychaete Hediste diversicolor (Annelida: Polychaeta). The obtained data showed that ASA is not exempt of toxicity, since it was responsible for significant, albeit transient, changes in biomarkers related to the redox status of the organisms, occurring as an increase in the activity of catalase in the individuals exposed acutely to ASA. Chronic exposure to ecologically relevant concentrations of this drug showed to be mostly ineffective in promoting any significant biochemical alteration in H. diversicolor. However, histochemical observations revealed proliferation of mucous cells in the tegument of chronically exposed individuals to ASA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Gomes
- Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental (CIIMAR/CIMAR), Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Avenida General Norton de Matos S/N, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade de Aveiro (UA), Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Alberto Teodorico Correia
- Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental (CIIMAR/CIMAR), Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Avenida General Norton de Matos S/N, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal
- Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde (FCS), Universidade Fernando Pessoa (UFP), Rua Carlos da Maia, 296, 4200-150, Porto, Portugal
| | - Bruno Nunes
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade de Aveiro (UA), Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
- Centro de Estudos do Ambiente e do Mar (CESAM), Campus de Santiago, Universidade de Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
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17
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Langan LM, Owen SF, Trznadel M, Dodd NJF, Jackson SK, Purcell WM, Jha AN. Spheroid Size Does not Impact Metabolism of the β-blocker Propranolol in 3D Intestinal Fish Model. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:947. [PMID: 30186177 PMCID: PMC6113889 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Compared to two-dimensional (2D) cell culture, cellular aggregates or spheroids (3D) offer a more appropriate alternative in vitro system where individual cell-cell communication and micro-environment more closely represent the in vivo organ; yet we understand little of the physiological conditions at this scale. The relationship between spheroid size and oxygen microenvironment, an important factor influencing the metabolic capacity of cells, was first established using the fish intestine derived RTgutGC cell line. Subsequently, pharmaceutical metabolism (Propranolol), as determined by high performance liquid chromatography, in this intestinal model was examined as a function of spheroid size. Co-efficient of variation between spheroid size was below 12% using the gyratory platform method, with the least variation observed in the highest cell seeding density. The viable, high oxygen micro-environment of the outer rim of the spheroid, as determined by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) oximetry, decreased over time, and the hypoxic zone increased as a function of spheroid size. Despite a trend of higher metabolism in smaller spheroids, the formation of micro-environments (quiescent, hypoxic or anoxic) did not significantly affect metabolism or function of an environmentally relevant pharmaceutical in this spheroid model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura M Langan
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Stewart F Owen
- Global Sustainability, AstraZeneca, Macclesfield, United Kingdom
| | - Maciej Trznadel
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas J F Dodd
- School of Biomedical and Healthcare Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Simon K Jackson
- School of Biomedical and Healthcare Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Wendy M Purcell
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Awadhesh N Jha
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
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18
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Bittner L, Teixido E, Seiwert B, Escher BI, Klüver N. Influence of pH on the uptake and toxicity of β-blockers in embryos of zebrafish, Danio rerio. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2018; 201:129-137. [PMID: 29906695 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2018.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2018] [Revised: 05/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/26/2018] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
ß-Blockers are weak bases with acidity constants related to their secondary amine group. At environmental pH they are protonated with the tendency to shift to their neutral species at more alkaline pH. Here we studied the influence of pH from 5.5 to 8.6 on the toxicity of the four ß-blockers atenolol, metoprolol, labetalol and propranolol in zebrafish embryos, relating toxicity not only in a conventional way to external aqueous concentrations but also to measured internal concentrations. Besides lethality, we evaluated changes in swimming activity and heartbeat, using the Locomotor Response (LMR) method and the Vertebrate Automated Screening Technology (VAST) for high throughput imaging. Effects of metoprolol, labetalol and propranolol were detected on phenotype, heart rate and swimming activity. External effect concentrations decreased with increasing neutral fraction for all three pharmaceuticals, attributed by an enhanced uptake of the neutral species in comparison to the corresponding charged form. The LC50 of metoprolol decreased by a factor of 35 from 1.91 mM with almost complete cationic state at pH 7.0 to 0.054 mM with 8% neutral fraction at pH 8.6. For propranolol the LC50 of 2.42 mM at pH 5.5 was even 100 fold higher than the LC50 at pH 8 with 0.023 mM where 3% were neutral fraction. No effects were detected in the zebrafish embryo exposed to atenolol. The internal concentrations for metoprolol and propranolol were quantified at non-toxic concentrations and at the LC10. Apparent bioconcentration factors (BCF) ranged from 1.96 at pH 7.0 to 32.0 at pH 8.6 for metoprolol and from 1.86 at pH 5.5 to 169 at pH 8.0 for propranolol. The BCFs served to predict the internal effect concentrations from the measured external effect concentrations. Internal effect concentrations of metoprolol and propranolol were in a similar range for all pH-values and for all endpoints. Interestingly, the internal effect concentrations were in the internal concentration range of baseline toxicity, which suggests that the effects of the ß-blockers are rather unspecific, even for sublethal effects on heart rate. In summary, our data confirm that the pH-dependent toxicity related to external concentrations can be explained by toxicokinetic effects and that the internal effect concentrations are pH-independent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Bittner
- Department Cell Toxicology, Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Elisabet Teixido
- Department Bioanalytical Toxicology, Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Bettina Seiwert
- Department Analytical Chemistry, Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Beate I Escher
- Department Cell Toxicology, Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; Environmental Toxicology, Centre for Applied Geoscience, Eberhard-Karls University, Hölderlinstr. 12, 72074 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Nils Klüver
- Department Cell Toxicology, Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany.
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19
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Franzellitti S, Kiwan A, Valbonesi P, Capolupo M, Buratti S, Moon TW, Fabbri E. Characterization of a β2 adrenergic receptor protein precursor in the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) and its tissue distribution across silvering. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2018; 137:158-168. [PMID: 29576394 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2018.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Revised: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This study provides the characterization and tissue distribution of a β2-AR in the female European eel during silvering, aiming to better understand the adrenergic system involvement in this critical maturation event. A putative β2-AR (ADRB2) mRNA was cloned and sequenced. Amino acid residues and motifs important for ligand binding are generally conserved across fish and between fish and mammals, although the occurrence of some sequence variabilities may explain the noted peculiarities of eel AR interaction with pharmacological ligands. The tissue distribution of the ADRB2 gene product was analyzed in five tissues of the eel at different silvering stages and compared with that of the ADRA1 mRNA encoding an α1-AR subtype. On the whole, data suggested that relative ADRA1/ADRB2 tissue expression across silvering is part of the preparatory (molecular) adjustments required to face changes in habitats and migration efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Franzellitti
- Animal and Environmental Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, Via S. Alberto 163, I-48123, Ravenna, Italy.
| | - Alisar Kiwan
- Animal and Environmental Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, Via S. Alberto 163, I-48123, Ravenna, Italy
| | - Paola Valbonesi
- Animal and Environmental Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, Via S. Alberto 163, I-48123, Ravenna, Italy
| | - Marco Capolupo
- Animal and Environmental Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, Via S. Alberto 163, I-48123, Ravenna, Italy
| | - Sara Buratti
- Animal and Environmental Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, Via S. Alberto 163, I-48123, Ravenna, Italy
| | - Thomas W Moon
- Department of Biology and the Centre for Advanced Research in Environmental Genomics, University of Ottawa, 30 Marie Curie, K1N 6N5, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Elena Fabbri
- Animal and Environmental Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, Via S. Alberto 163, I-48123, Ravenna, Italy
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20
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de León-Martínez LD, Rodríguez-Aguilar M, Ocampo-Pérez R, Gutiérrez-Hernández JM, Díaz-Barriga F, Batres-Esquivel L, Flores-Ramírez R. Synthesis and Evaluation of a Molecularly Imprinted Polymer for the Determination of Metronidazole in Water Samples. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2018; 100:395-401. [PMID: 29299634 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-017-2249-5] [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: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 12/09/2017] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
A molecularly imprinted polymer was developed and evaluated for selective determination of metronidazole (MNZ) in wastewater. This was achieved by using sodium methacrylate as monomer, toluene as porogen, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate as crosslinker, azobisisobutyronitrile as initiator and metronidazole as template molecule to generate the selectivity of the polymer for the compound, as well as non-imprinted polymers were synthesized. Two different polymerization approaches were used, bulk and emulsion and the polymers obtained by emulsion presented higher retention percentages the MIP 2-M presented the higher retention (83%). The performed method, was validated in fortified water, showing linearity from 10 up to 1000 ng/mL; limit of detection and quantification for compound were between 3 and 10 ng/mL, respectively. Finally, the method was applied in samples of a wastewater treatment plant in the city of San Luis Potosí, México, and the concentrations of MNZ in these samples were 84.1-114 ng/mL.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Díaz de León-Martínez
- Centro de Investigación Aplicada en Ambiente y Salud (CIAAS), Avenida Sierra Leona No. 550, CP 78210, Colonia Lomas Segunda Sección, San Luis Potosí, SLP, Mexico
| | - M Rodríguez-Aguilar
- Centro de Investigación Aplicada en Ambiente y Salud (CIAAS), Avenida Sierra Leona No. 550, CP 78210, Colonia Lomas Segunda Sección, San Luis Potosí, SLP, Mexico
| | - R Ocampo-Pérez
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Avenida Sierra Leona No. 550, CP 78210, Colonia Lomas Segunda Sección, San Luis Potosí, SLP, Mexico
| | - J M Gutiérrez-Hernández
- Departamento de Madera, Papel y Celulosa, Centro Universitario de Ciencias Exactas e Ingenierías, Universidad de Guadalajara, Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - F Díaz-Barriga
- Centro de Investigación Aplicada en Ambiente y Salud (CIAAS), Avenida Sierra Leona No. 550, CP 78210, Colonia Lomas Segunda Sección, San Luis Potosí, SLP, Mexico
| | - L Batres-Esquivel
- Centro de Investigación Aplicada en Ambiente y Salud (CIAAS), Avenida Sierra Leona No. 550, CP 78210, Colonia Lomas Segunda Sección, San Luis Potosí, SLP, Mexico
| | - R Flores-Ramírez
- CONACYT Research Fellow, Coordinación para la Innovación y Aplicación de la Ciencia y la Tecnología (CIACYT), Avenida Sierra Leona No. 550, CP 78210, Colonia Lomas Segunda Sección, San Luis Potosí, SLP, Mexico.
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Klimaszyk P, Rzymski P. Water and Aquatic Fauna on Drugs: What are the Impacts of Pharmaceutical Pollution? WATER MANAGEMENT AND THE ENVIRONMENT: CASE STUDIES 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-79014-5_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
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22
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Tanoue R, Margiotta-Casaluci L, Huerta B, Runnalls TJ, Nomiyama K, Kunisue T, Tanabe S, Sumpter JP. Uptake and Metabolism of Human Pharmaceuticals by Fish: A Case Study with the Opioid Analgesic Tramadol. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:12825-12835. [PMID: 28977743 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b03441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Recent species-extrapolation approaches to the prediction of the potential effects of pharmaceuticals present in the environment on wild fish are based on the assumption that pharmacokinetics and metabolism in humans and fish are comparable. To test this hypothesis, we exposed fathead minnows to the opiate pro-drug tramadol and examined uptake from the water into the blood and brain and the metabolism of the drug into its main metabolites. We found that plasma concentrations could be predicted reasonably accurately based on the lipophilicity of the drug once the pH of the water was taken into account. The concentrations of the drug and its main metabolites were higher in the brain than in the plasma, and the observed brain and plasma concentration ratios were within the range of values reported in mammalian species. This fish species was able to metabolize the pro-drug tramadol into the highly active metabolite O-desmethyl tramadol and the inactive metabolite N-desmethyl tramadol in a similar manner to that of mammals. However, we found that concentration ratios of O-desmethyl tramadol to tramadol were lower in the fish than values in most humans administered the drug. Our pharmacokinetic data of tramadol in fish help bridge the gap between widely available mammalian pharmacological data and potential effects on aquatic organisms and highlight the importance of understanding drug uptake and metabolism in fish to enable the full implementation of predictive toxicology approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rumi Tanoue
- Centre for Marine Environmental Studies, Ehime University , 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-8577, Japan
- Institute of Environment, Health and Societies, Brunel University , Uxbridge, Middlesex, London UB8 3PH, United Kingdom
| | - Luigi Margiotta-Casaluci
- Institute of Environment, Health and Societies, Brunel University , Uxbridge, Middlesex, London UB8 3PH, United Kingdom
| | - Belinda Huerta
- Institute of Environment, Health and Societies, Brunel University , Uxbridge, Middlesex, London UB8 3PH, United Kingdom
| | - Tamsin J Runnalls
- Institute of Environment, Health and Societies, Brunel University , Uxbridge, Middlesex, London UB8 3PH, United Kingdom
| | - Kei Nomiyama
- Centre for Marine Environmental Studies, Ehime University , 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-8577, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Kunisue
- Centre for Marine Environmental Studies, Ehime University , 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-8577, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Tanabe
- Centre for Marine Environmental Studies, Ehime University , 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-8577, Japan
| | - John P Sumpter
- Institute of Environment, Health and Societies, Brunel University , Uxbridge, Middlesex, London UB8 3PH, United Kingdom
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23
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Bean TG, Arnold KE, Lane JM, Bergström E, Thomas-Oates J, Rattner BA, Boxall ABA. Predictive framework for estimating exposure of birds to pharmaceuticals. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2017; 36:2335-2344. [PMID: 28198558 DOI: 10.1002/etc.3771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2017] [Revised: 01/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/14/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
We present and evaluate a framework for estimating concentrations of pharmaceuticals over time in wildlife feeding at wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). The framework is composed of a series of predictive steps involving the estimation of pharmaceutical concentration in wastewater, accumulation into wildlife food items, and uptake by wildlife with subsequent distribution into, and elimination from, tissues. Because many pharmacokinetic parameters for wildlife are unavailable for the majority of drugs in use, a read-across approach was employed using either rodent or human data on absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Comparison of the different steps in the framework against experimental data for the scenario where birds are feeding on a WWTP contaminated with fluoxetine showed that estimated concentrations in wastewater treatment works were lower than measured concentrations; concentrations in food could be reasonably estimated if experimental bioaccumulation data are available; and read-across from rodent data worked better than human to bird read-across. The framework provides adequate predictions of plasma concentrations and of elimination behavior in birds but yields poor predictions of distribution in tissues. The approach holds promise, but it is important that we improve our understanding of the physiological similarities and differences between wild birds and domesticated laboratory mammals used in pharmaceutical efficacy/safety trials, so that the wealth of data available can be applied more effectively in ecological risk assessments. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:2335-2344. © 2017 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas G Bean
- Environment Department, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Kathryn E Arnold
- Environment Department, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Julie M Lane
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, York, United Kingdom
| | - Ed Bergström
- Centre of Excellence in Mass Spectrometry and Department of Chemistry, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Jane Thomas-Oates
- Centre of Excellence in Mass Spectrometry and Department of Chemistry, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Barnett A Rattner
- United States Geological Survey Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Beltsville, Maryland, USA
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24
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Gröner F, Höhne C, Kleiner W, Kloas W. Chronic exposure to the ß-blocker metoprolol reduces growth and alters gene expression of gonadotropins and vitellogenin in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2017; 141:271-279. [PMID: 28359993 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2017.03.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Revised: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 03/19/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Knowledge of the occurrence and impacts of human pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment is increasing since many years. Ecotoxicological studies mainly focus on acute effects though; chronic exposure studies are still rare. ß-adrenergic receptor antagonists (ß-blockers) are widely detected in the aquatic environment and likely alter the physiology of aquatic vertebrates due to a well-conserved adrenergic system. In this study, Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) were exposed to four different concentrations (4×10-10M, 4×10-9M, 4×10-8M and 4×10-7M) of metoprolol (ß1-blocker) from fertilized egg until 80 days post-hatch. Hatching and survival were not affected but growth was reduced almost dose-dependently after 30 and 80 days post-hatch. Histopathological evaluation of the gills revealed the tendency of mild alterations with proliferation of mucous/chloride cells and infiltration by leucocytes as the main findings. The transcriptional responses of both pituitary gonadotropins (luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone) as well as the estrogenic biomarker vitellogenin indicated moderately altered endocrine processes due to metoprolol exposure at the concentrations chosen. In contrast, hepatic detoxification mechanisms displayed only little to no effects. Based on this study, the overall toxicity of metoprolol in fish at environmentally relevant concentrations seems to be rather low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederike Gröner
- Department of Ecophysiology and Aquaculture, Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Müggelseedamm 301, 12587 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Christin Höhne
- Department of Ecophysiology and Aquaculture, Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Müggelseedamm 301, 12587 Berlin, Germany
| | - Wibke Kleiner
- Department of Ecophysiology and Aquaculture, Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Müggelseedamm 301, 12587 Berlin, Germany
| | - Werner Kloas
- Department of Ecophysiology and Aquaculture, Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Müggelseedamm 301, 12587 Berlin, Germany; Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Biology, Humboldt University, Invalidenstr. 42, 10099 Berlin, Germany
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25
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Parrott JL, Balakrishnan VK. Life-cycle exposure of fathead minnows to environmentally relevant concentrations of the β-blocker drug propranolol. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2017; 36:1644-1651. [PMID: 27925269 DOI: 10.1002/etc.3703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Revised: 09/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Propranolol is a human pharmaceutical β-blocker that has been detected in municipal wastewater effluents at ng/L to low μg/L. To assess the potential of this compound to affect fish, fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) were exposed for a life cycle in a flow-through system to nominal propranolol concentrations of 0.87 ng/L, 8.7 ng/L, 87 ng/L, 870 ng/L, and 8700 ng/L. Measured propranolol concentrations were below detection for the 2 lowest exposure concentrations, and were 76 ng/L, 580 ng/L, and 7800 ng/L for the 3 highest exposure concentrations. During the 162-d to 165-d exposure, no significant changes in weights or lengths were seen in fathead minnows, although the highest concentration of propranolol did cause a 15% decrease in survival of larval and juvenile stage fish compared with controls. At maturity, there were no significant changes in condition factor, liver-somatic index, or secondary sex characteristics in propranolol-exposed male or female fish. Female gonadosomatic index was significantly decreased in fish exposed to the highest concentrations of propranolol, probably because of increased egg-laying. Fathead minnows from all propranolol exposures produced more eggs than control fish, with fish exposed to 7800 ng/L propranolol producing 70% more eggs per female (p = 0.060), and having significantly increased clutch size (p = 0.008). Egg quality, % fertilization, % hatching, and % deformities in F1 fry were unaffected by propranolol exposure of fish. Propranolol exposure caused no effects in fathead minnows, except at the highest exposure concentration (7800 ng/L), where there were slight decreases in survival of juvenile minnows, and indications of increased reproduction. The present study is important because it is the first to assess the potential for effects in fish exposed to propranolol for a life cycle. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:1644-1651. © 2016 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne L Parrott
- Water Science and Technology Directorate, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Burlington, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vimal K Balakrishnan
- Water Science and Technology Directorate, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Burlington, Ontario, Canada
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Baron MG, Mintram KS, Owen SF, Hetheridge MJ, Moody AJ, Purcell WM, Jackson SK, Jha AN. Pharmaceutical Metabolism in Fish: Using a 3-D Hepatic In Vitro Model to Assess Clearance. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0168837. [PMID: 28045944 PMCID: PMC5207725 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0168837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 11/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
At high internal doses, pharmaceuticals have the potential for inducing biological/pharmacological effects in fish. One particular concern for the environment is their potential to bioaccumulate and reach pharmacological levels; the study of these implications for environmental risk assessment has therefore gained increasing attention. To avoid unnecessary testing on animals, in vitro methods for assessment of xenobiotic metabolism could aid in the ecotoxicological evaluation. Here we report the use of a 3-D in vitro liver organoid culture system (spheroids) derived from rainbow trout to measure the metabolism of seven pharmaceuticals using a substrate depletion assay. Of the pharmaceuticals tested, propranolol, diclofenac and phenylbutazone were metabolised by trout liver spheroids; atenolol, metoprolol, diazepam and carbamazepine were not. Substrate depletion kinetics data was used to estimate intrinsic hepatic clearance by this spheroid model, which was similar for diclofenac and approximately 5 fold higher for propranolol when compared to trout liver microsomal fraction (S9) data. These results suggest that liver spheroids could be used as a relevant and metabolically competent in vitro model with which to measure the biotransformation of pharmaceuticals in fish; and propranolol acts as a reproducible positive control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew G. Baron
- School of Biological Science, Plymouth University, Devon, United Kingdom
- AstraZeneca, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire, United Kingdom
| | - Kate S. Mintram
- School of Biological Science, Plymouth University, Devon, United Kingdom
- AstraZeneca, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire, United Kingdom
| | - Stewart F. Owen
- AstraZeneca, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire, United Kingdom
| | | | - A. John Moody
- School of Biological Science, Plymouth University, Devon, United Kingdom
| | - Wendy M. Purcell
- School of Biomedical & Healthcare Science, Plymouth University, Devon, United Kingdom
| | - Simon K. Jackson
- School of Biomedical & Healthcare Science, Plymouth University, Devon, United Kingdom
| | - Awadhesh N. Jha
- School of Biological Science, Plymouth University, Devon, United Kingdom
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27
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Mitchell KM, Moon TW. Behavioral and biochemical adjustments of the zebrafish Danio rerio exposed to the β-blocker propranolol. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 199:105-114. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2015.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2015] [Revised: 10/21/2015] [Accepted: 10/24/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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28
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Jeong TY, Kim TH, Kim SD. Bioaccumulation and biotransformation of the beta-blocker propranolol in multigenerational exposure to Daphnia magna. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2016; 216:811-818. [PMID: 27373739 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2016.06.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2016] [Revised: 05/23/2016] [Accepted: 06/21/2016] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Multigenerational bioaccumulation and biotransformation activity and short-term kinetics (e.g., uptake and depuration) of propranolol in Daphnia magna were investigated at environmental concentration. The body burden and the major metabolite, desisopropyl propranolol (DIP), of propranolol were quantified using LC-MS/MS at the end of each generation after exposure for 11 generations. The accumulation of propranolol in D. magna at an environmental concentration of 0.2 μg/L was not much different between the parent (F0) and the eleventh filial (F10) generation. However, at 28 μg/L, its accumulation was 1.6 times higher-up to 18.9 μg/g-in the F10 generation relative to the F0. In contrast to propranolol, DIP intensity gradually increased from F0 to F10 at 0.2 μg/L, reflecting an increase in detoxification load and biotransformation performance; no increasing trend was observed at 28 μg/L. The bioaccumulation factor (BAF) showed higher values with a lower concentration and longer period of exposure. The average values of the BAF for 21 days of long-term exposure in successive 11 generations were 440.4 ± 119.7 and 1026.5 ± 208.6 L/kg for 28 μg/L and 0.2 μg/L, respectively. These are comparable to the BAF of 192 for the short-term 72-h exposure at 28 μg/L in the parent generation. It is also recommended that future studies for pharmaceutical ingredients be conducted on drug-drug interaction and structural characteristics on the prediction of biotransformation activity and bioaccumulation rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae-Yong Jeong
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, 1 Oryong dong, Buk-gu, Gwangju, 500-712, South Korea
| | - Tae-Hun Kim
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, 1 Oryong dong, Buk-gu, Gwangju, 500-712, South Korea; Research Division for Industry and Environment, Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, Jeongeup, Jeonbuk, 580-185, South Korea
| | - Sang Don Kim
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, 1 Oryong dong, Buk-gu, Gwangju, 500-712, South Korea.
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29
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Puckowski A, Mioduszewska K, Łukaszewicz P, Borecka M, Caban M, Maszkowska J, Stepnowski P. Bioaccumulation and analytics of pharmaceutical residues in the environment: A review. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2016; 127:232-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2016.02.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2015] [Revised: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 02/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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30
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Kumar A, Batley GE, Nidumolu B, Hutchinson TH. Derivation of water quality guidelines for priority pharmaceuticals. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2016; 35:1815-1824. [PMID: 26660719 DOI: 10.1002/etc.3336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2015] [Revised: 06/08/2015] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Pharmaceuticals can enter freshwater and affect aquatic ecosystem health. Although toxicity tests have been carried out for the commonly used pharmaceuticals, evidence-based water quality guidelines have not been derived. High-reliability water quality guideline values have been derived for 4 pharmaceuticals-carbamazepine, diclofenac, fluoxetine, and propranolol-in freshwaters using a Burr type III distribution applied to species sensitivity distributions of chronic toxicity data. Data were quality-assured and had to meet acceptability criteria for "chronic" no-observed-effect concentrations or concentrations affecting 10% of species, endpoints of population relevance (namely, effect endpoints based on development, growth, reproduction, and survival). Biomarker response data (e.g., biochemical, histological, or molecular responses) were excluded from the derivation because they are typically not directly relevant to wildlife population-related impacts. The derived guideline values for 95% species protection were 9.2 μg/L, 770 μg/L, 1.6 μg/L, and 14 μg/L for carbamazepine, diclofenac, fluoxetine, and propranolol, respectively. These values are significantly higher than the unknown reliability values derived for the European Commission, Switzerland, or Germany that are based on the application of assessment factors to the most sensitive experimental endpoint (which may include biochemical, histological, or molecular biomarker responses) of a limited data set. The guideline values derived in the present study were not exceeded in recent data for Australian rivers and streams receiving pharmaceutical-containing effluents from wastewater-treatment plants. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:1815-1824. © 2015 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anupama Kumar
- Centre for Environmental Contaminants Research, CSIRO Land and Water, Glen Osmond, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Graeme E Batley
- Centre for Environmental Contaminants Research, CSIRO Land and Water, Kirrawee, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Bhanu Nidumolu
- Centre for Environmental Contaminants Research, CSIRO Land and Water, Glen Osmond, Adelaide, Australia
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31
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Assessing Potential Vulnerability and Response of Fish to Simulated Avian Predation after Exposure to Psychotropic Pharmaceuticals. TOXICS 2016; 4:toxics4020009. [PMID: 29051414 PMCID: PMC5606628 DOI: 10.3390/toxics4020009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Revised: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Psychotropic pharmaceuticals present in the environment may impact organisms both directly and via interaction strengths with other organisms, including predators; therefore, this study examined the potential effects of pharmaceuticals on behavioral responses of fish to avian predators. Wild-caught juvenile perch (Perca fluviatilis) were assayed using a striking bird model after a seven-day exposure to psychotropic pharmaceuticals (the antidepressants fluoxetine or sertraline, or the β-blocker propranolol) under the hypotheses that exposure would increase vulnerability to avian predation via increasing the probability of predator encounter as well as degrading evasive behaviors upon encounter. None of the substances significantly affected swimming activity of the fish, nor did they increase vulnerability by affecting encounter probability or evasive endpoints compared to control treatments. Counter to our expectations, fish exposed to 100 μg/L fluoxetine (but no other concentrations or pharmaceuticals) were less likely to enter the open area of the arena, i.e., less likely to engage in risky behavior that could lead to predator encounters. Additionally, all fish exposed to environmentally relevant, low concentrations of sertraline (0.12 μg/L) and propranolol (0.1 μg/L) sought refuge after the simulated attack. Our unexpected results warrant further research as they have interesting implications on how these psychotropic pharmaceuticals may affect predator-prey interactions spanning the terrestrial-aquatic interface.
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Fabbri E, Franzellitti S. Human pharmaceuticals in the marine environment: Focus on exposure and biological effects in animal species. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2016; 35:799-812. [PMID: 26111460 DOI: 10.1002/etc.3131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2015] [Revised: 04/16/2015] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Marine waters have been poorly investigated for the occurrence of pharmaceutical contamination. Recent data confirm that pharmaceuticals occur widely in marine and coastal environments; therefore, assessment of potential risk to marine species needs further efforts. The present study represents the first extensive review of pharmaceutical contamination in marine environments addressing the effects on the marine biota analyzed at the molecular, cellular, and individual levels. Because pharmaceuticals differ from conventional pollutants, being designed to interact with specific physiological pathways at low doses, the most recent evidence on modes of action and physiological alterations on marine animal species are discussed. Data on spatial distributions of pharmaceuticals in waters and sediments, as well as bioaccumulation rates, are also presented. The present review also seeks to expand knowledge of how the quality of coastal and marine environments could be efficiently monitored to anticipate possible health and environmental risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Fabbri
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, Ravenna, Italy
- Interdepartment Centre for Environmental Sciences Research, University of Bologna, Ravenna, Italy
| | - Silvia Franzellitti
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, Ravenna, Italy
- Interdepartment Centre for Environmental Sciences Research, University of Bologna, Ravenna, Italy
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Correia B, Freitas R, Figueira E, Soares AMVM, Nunes B. Oxidative effects of the pharmaceutical drug paracetamol on the edible clam Ruditapes philippinarum under different salinities. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2016; 179:116-24. [PMID: 26409706 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2015.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Revised: 08/28/2015] [Accepted: 09/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Paracetamol, a drug with analgesic and antipyretic properties, is one of the most used substances in human therapeutics, being also frequently detected in aquatic environments. Recent studies report its toxicity towards aquatic species, but the overall amount of data concerning its effects is still scarce. Global changes, likely alterations in abiotic conditions, including salinity, can modulate the interactions of contaminants with biota, conditioning the toxicological responses elicited also by pharmaceuticals. The present article describes the oxidative toxic effects posed by paracetamol on the clam species Ruditapes philippinarum under different salinity conditions. The results demonstrated the establishment of an oxidative-based effect, with significant alteration of several parameters, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and the ratio of reduced/oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG). Water salinity influenced the response of clams exposed to different paracetamol concentrations, showing the importance of studying physiological traits under realistic test conditions, which are likely to vary in great extent as a result of climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara Correia
- Department of Biology, Centro de Estudos do Ambiente e do MAR (CESAM), University of Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Rosa Freitas
- Department of Biology, Centro de Estudos do Ambiente e do MAR (CESAM), University of Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Etelvina Figueira
- Department of Biology, Centro de Estudos do Ambiente e do MAR (CESAM), University of Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Amadeu M V M Soares
- Department of Biology, Centro de Estudos do Ambiente e do MAR (CESAM), University of Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Bruno Nunes
- Department of Biology, Centro de Estudos do Ambiente e do MAR (CESAM), University of Aveiro, Portugal.
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Hutchinson TH, Madden JC, Naidoo V, Walker CH. Comparative metabolism as a key driver of wildlife species sensitivity to human and veterinary pharmaceuticals. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2015; 369:rstb.2013.0583. [PMID: 25405970 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2013.0583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Human and veterinary drug development addresses absorption, distribution, metabolism, elimination and toxicology (ADMET) of the Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) in the target species. Metabolism is an important factor in controlling circulating plasma and target tissue API concentrations and in generating metabolites which are more easily eliminated in bile, faeces and urine. The essential purpose of xenobiotic metabolism is to convert lipid-soluble, non-polar and non-excretable chemicals into water soluble, polar molecules that are readily excreted. Xenobiotic metabolism is classified into Phase I enzymatic reactions (which add or expose reactive functional groups on xenobiotic molecules), Phase II reactions (resulting in xenobiotic conjugation with large water-soluble, polar molecules) and Phase III cellular efflux transport processes. The human-fish plasma model provides a useful approach to understanding the pharmacokinetics of APIs (e.g. diclofenac, ibuprofen and propranolol) in freshwater fish, where gill and liver metabolism of APIs have been shown to be of importance. By contrast, wildlife species with low metabolic competency may exhibit zero-order metabolic (pharmacokinetic) profiles and thus high API toxicity, as in the case of diclofenac and the dramatic decline of vulture populations across the Indian subcontinent. A similar threat looms for African Cape Griffon vultures exposed to ketoprofen and meloxicam, recent studies indicating toxicity relates to zero-order metabolism (suggesting P450 Phase I enzyme system or Phase II glucuronidation deficiencies). While all aspects of ADMET are important in toxicity evaluations, these observations demonstrate the importance of methods for predicting API comparative metabolism as a central part of environmental risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas H Hutchinson
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Judith C Madden
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
| | - Vinny Naidoo
- Departmental of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Gauteng 0110, South Africa
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Ding J, Lu G, Li S, Nie Y, Liu J. Biological fate and effects of propranolol in an experimental aquatic food chain. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2015; 532:31-39. [PMID: 26057722 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2015.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2015] [Revised: 05/08/2015] [Accepted: 06/01/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the trophic transfer of the β-blocker propranolol (PRP) in an experimental aquatic food chain involving the green algae Scenedesmus obliquus, the water flea Daphnia magna and the crucian carp Carassius auratus, as well as the metabolism and effects of PRP in the liver of crucian carp. After a 48 h PRP aqueous exposure for algae, with a subsequent 48 h dietary exposure for daphnia and an 8d dietary exposure for crucian carp, PRP was observed in each trophic level, despite significant bioaccumulation did not occur in daphnia and crucian carp. A portion of the absorbed PRP was metabolized by the crucian carp to N-desisopropylated propranolol, propranolol glucuronic acid, monohydroxylated propranolol, hydroxypropranolol glucuronide and dihydroxypropranolol glucuronide, which were similar to those in mammals. In addition, multiple biomarkers in the liver of crucian carp (7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase, EROD; 7-benzyloxyresorufin O-dealkylation, BROD; superoxide dismutase, SOD and malondialdehyde, MDA) were measured. BROD and MDA were not significantly affected by PRP, while EROD and SOD did change significantly during the 8d dietary exposure. This work indicated that the trophic transfer of PRP, resulting in biochemical perturbations of fish biological systems, should be a concern for the assessment of the environmental risks to aquatic food chains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiannan Ding
- Key Laboratory for Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Guanghua Lu
- Key Laboratory for Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China.
| | - Sheng Li
- Key Laboratory for Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Yang Nie
- Key Laboratory for Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Jianchao Liu
- Key Laboratory for Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
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Fabbri E, Moon TW. Adrenergic signaling in teleost fish liver, a challenging path. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2015; 199:74-86. [PMID: 26482086 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2015.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2015] [Revised: 09/09/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Adrenergic receptors or adrenoceptors (ARs) belong to the huge family of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) that have been well characterized in mammals primarily because of their importance as therapeutic drug targets. ARs are found across vertebrates and this review examines the path to identify and characterize these receptors in fish with emphasis on hepatic metabolism. The absence of reliable and specific pharmacological agents led investigators to define the fish hepatic AR system as relying solely on a β2-AR, cAMP-dependent signaling transduction pathway. The use of calcium-radiometric imaging, purified membranes for ligand-binding studies, and perifused rather than static cultured fish hepatocytes, unequivocally demonstrated that both α1- and β2-AR signaling systems existed in the fish liver consistent with studies in mammals. Additionally, the use of molecular tools and phylogenetic analysis clearly demonstrated the existence of multiple AR-types and -subtypes in hepatic and other tissues of a number of fish species. This review also examines the use of β-blockers as pharmaceuticals and how these drugs that are now in the aquatic environment may be impacting aquatic species including fish and some invertebrates. Clearly there is a large conservation of structure and function within the AR system of vertebrates but there remain a number of key questions that need to be addressed before a clear understanding of these systems can be resolved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Fabbri
- University of Bologna, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences Unit of Ravenna, via S. Alberto 163, 48124 Ravenna, Italy.
| | - Thomas W Moon
- University of Ottawa, Department of Biology and the Centre for Advance Research in Environmental Genomics, 30 Marie Curie, K1N 6N5 Ottawa, Canada
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37
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Kostich M, Länge R. Ecotoxicology, Environmental Risk Assessment and Potential Impact on Human Health. PHARMACEUTICALS IN THE ENVIRONMENT 2015. [DOI: 10.1039/9781782622345-00180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
This chapter examines potential risks posed by active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) present in the aquatic environment to humans and aquatic life. We begin by describing the mechanisms by which pharmaceuticals enter the vertebrate body, produce effects and leave the body. Then we describe theoretical and practical issues limiting the certainty which can be expected from risk estimates. This is followed by a description of particular considerations applicable to evaluation of human risks, along with a summary of methods and conclusions from some important studies examining those risks. A similar discussion of theoretical issues and selected data relevant for estimating risks to aquatic life is then presented. We finish by discussing potential contributions of antibiotics present in the environment to the development and spread of antibiotic resistance. We conclude that there are too few data to definitively address every concern, particularly risks to aquatic life and contributions to development of antibiotic resistance. On the other hand, available data suggest risks to humans are very low for all active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and risks to aquatic life are very low for most APIs. Although aquatic risks cannot be as confidently ruled out for a few APIs, potential risks are probably limited to particularly contaminated regions in close vicinity to concentrated pollution sources, such as wastewater treatment plant outfalls.
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38
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Sun L, Liu F, Chen H, Wang S, Lin X, Chi J, Zhu Q, Fu Z. Transcriptional Responses in Adult Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Exposed to Propranolol and Metoprolol. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2015; 24:1352-1361. [PMID: 26088506 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-015-1510-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
β-adrenergic receptor blockers (β-blockers) are widely detected in the aquatic environment; however, the effects of these pharmaceuticals on aquatic organisms remain uncertain. In this study, adult zebrafish were exposed to two different β-blockers, propranolol and metoprolol, for 96 h. After exposure, the transcriptional responses of genes encoding the β-adrenergic receptor (i.e., adrb1, adrb2a, adrb2b, adrb3a and adrb3b), genes involved in detoxification and the stress response (i.e., hsp70, tap, mt1 and mt2), and genes related to the antioxidant system (i.e., cu/zn-sod, mn-sod, cat and gpx) were examined in the brain, liver and gonad. Our results show that both propranolol and metoprolol exposure changes the mRNA level of β-adrenergic receptors, indicating clear pharmacological target engagement of the β-blockers. The transcription of genes related to antioxidant responses and detoxification process were induced, suggesting that β-blocker exposure can activate the detoxification process and result in oxidative stress in fish. Moreover, the transcriptional responses displayed substantial tissue- and gender-specific effects. Considering the environmental concentrations of propranolol and metoprolol, these results suggest that these pharmaceuticals are unlikely to pose a risk to fish. However, the impacts in prolonged exposure, along with other possible side effects due to β-adrenergic receptor blockade, should be further assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwei Sun
- College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310032, People's Republic of China
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39
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Wu JP, Li MH. Inhibitory effects of pain relief drugs on neurological enzymes: implications on their potential neurotoxicity to aquatic animals. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2015; 39:898-905. [PMID: 25801321 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2015.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2014] [Revised: 02/25/2015] [Accepted: 02/27/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Pain relief medications commonly occur in the aquatic environment at measurable levels. While the neurotoxicity of pain relievers to higher vertebrates is currently known, little is known about their effects on aquatic animals. This study investigated the neurotoxicity of pain relievers to aquatic animals. We used three neurological enzymes, cholinesterase (ChE), adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase), and monoamine oxidase (MAO), from a freshwater planarian (Dugesia japonica) and green neon shrimp (Neocaridina denticulata) as biomarkers to examine the effects of pain relievers on in vitro activity. The activity of MAO and ChE, but not ATPase, was significantly inhibited by acetaminophen, but not by other pain relievers examined. It was likely that the inhibitory effects of acetaminophen on shrimp neurological enzymes were more severe than on the planarian. These findings suggest that acetaminophen is potentially neurotoxic to aquatic animals, at least in terms of neurotransmission disturbance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jui-Pin Wu
- Environmental Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Geography, National Taiwan University, 1, Section 4, Roosevelt Road, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Hui Li
- Environmental Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Geography, National Taiwan University, 1, Section 4, Roosevelt Road, Taipei 106, Taiwan.
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40
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Stott LC, Schnell S, Hogstrand C, Owen SF, Bury NR. A primary fish gill cell culture model to assess pharmaceutical uptake and efflux: evidence for passive and facilitated transport. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2015; 159:127-37. [PMID: 25544062 PMCID: PMC4303912 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2014.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2014] [Revised: 12/02/2014] [Accepted: 12/08/2014] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The gill is the principle site of xenobiotic transfer to and from the aqueous environment. To replace, refine or reduce (3Rs) the large numbers of fish used in in vivo uptake studies an effective in vitro screen is required that mimics the function of the teleost gill. This study uses a rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) primary gill cell culture system grown on permeable inserts, which tolerates apical freshwater thus mimicking the intact organ, to assess the uptake and efflux of pharmaceuticals across the gill. Bidirectional transport studies in media of seven pharmaceuticals (propranolol, metoprolol, atenolol, formoterol, terbutaline, ranitidine and imipramine) showed they were transported transcellularly across the epithelium. However, studies conducted in water showed enhanced uptake of propranolol, ranitidine and imipramine. Concentration-equilibrated conditions without a concentration gradient suggested that a proportion of the uptake of propranolol and imipramine is via a carrier-mediated process. Further study using propranolol showed that its transport is pH-dependent and at very low environmentally relevant concentrations (ng L(-1)), transport deviated from linearity. At higher concentrations, passive uptake dominated. Known inhibitors of drug transport proteins; cimetidine, MK571, cyclosporine A and quinidine inhibited propranolol uptake, whilst amantadine and verapamil were without effect. Together this suggests the involvement of specific members of SLC and ABC drug transporter families in pharmaceutical transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy C Stott
- Division of Diabetes and Nutritional Sciences, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom; AstraZeneca, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK10 4TF, United Kingdom
| | - Sabine Schnell
- Division of Diabetes and Nutritional Sciences, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Christer Hogstrand
- Division of Diabetes and Nutritional Sciences, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Stewart F Owen
- AstraZeneca, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK10 4TF, United Kingdom
| | - Nic R Bury
- Division of Diabetes and Nutritional Sciences, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom.
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41
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Sun L, Xin L, Peng Z, Jin R, Jin Y, Qian H, Fu Z. Toxicity and enantiospecific differences of two β-blockers, propranolol and metoprolol, in the embryos and larvae of zebrafish (Danio rerio). ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2014; 29:1367-1378. [PMID: 23661550 DOI: 10.1002/tox.21867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2012] [Revised: 03/22/2013] [Accepted: 03/28/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The risk presented by β-blockers on aquatic organisms remains uncertain, particularly given the enantiospecific differences in toxicity of chiral β-blockers. In this study, the toxicity of two β-blockers, propranolol and metoprolol, was determined. The 96-h LC50 of propranolol in the zebrafish larvae was 2.48 mg/L, whereas 50 mg/L metoprolol did not result in death. Both β-blockers decreased the heart rate and hatching rate and increased the mortality of the zebrafish embryos. Among these indicators, the heart rate was the most sensitive. However, the acute larval and embryo toxicity results displayed no enantioselectivity. Additionally, the transcriptional response of the genes encoding the β-adrenergic receptors and those involved in other physiological processes, including the antioxidant response, detoxification, and apoptosis, in zebrafish larvae exposed to the β-blockers was examined. Although the changes in gene transcription were fairly minor, significant enantioselectivity was observed for β-blockers, suggesting that the transcriptional response was more sensitive for the evaluation of enantiospecific toxicity. Based on these results, the pharmaceutical drugs were not expected to pose a risk to fish; however, this conclusion should not be considered final. These results also demonstrated that the enantiospecific toxicity of chiral β-blockers should be investigated when performing an ecological risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwei Sun
- College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310032, People's Republic of China
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42
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Caldwell DJ, Mastrocco F, Margiotta-Casaluci L, Brooks BW. An integrated approach for prioritizing pharmaceuticals found in the environment for risk assessment, monitoring and advanced research. CHEMOSPHERE 2014; 115:4-12. [PMID: 24636702 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2014.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2013] [Revised: 01/16/2014] [Accepted: 01/17/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Numerous active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), approved prior to enactment of detailed environmental risk assessment (ERA) guidance in the EU in 2006, have been detected in surface waters as a result of advancements in analytical technologies. Without adequate knowledge of the potential hazards these APIs may pose, assessing their environmental risk is challenging. As it would be impractical to commence hazard characterization and ERA en masse, several approaches to prioritizing substances for further attention have been published. Here, through the combination of three presentations given at a recent conference, "Pharmaceuticals in the Environment, Is there a problem?" (Nîmes, France, June 2013) we review several of these approaches, identify salient components, and present available techniques and tools that could facilitate a pragmatic, scientifically sound approach to prioritizing APIs for advanced study or ERA and, where warranted, fill critical data gaps through targeted, intelligent testing. We further present a modest proposal to facilitate future prioritization efforts and advanced research studies that incorporates mammalian pharmacology data (e.g., adverse outcomes pathways and the fish plasma model) and modeled exposure data based on pharmaceutical use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Bryan W Brooks
- Department of Environmental Science, Center for Reservoir and Aquatic Systems Research, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
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Steinbach C, Burkina V, Fedorova G, Grabicova K, Stara A, Velisek J, Zlabek V, Schmidt-Posthaus H, Grabic R, Kocour Kroupova H. The sub-lethal effects and tissue concentration of the human pharmaceutical atenolol in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2014; 497-498:209-218. [PMID: 25129157 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2014.07.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2014] [Revised: 07/16/2014] [Accepted: 07/29/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Atenolol is a highly prescribed anti-hypertensive pharmaceutical and a member of the group of β-blockers. It has been detected at concentrations ranging from ng L(-1) to low μg L(-1) in waste and surface waters. The present study aimed to assess the sub-lethal effects of atenolol on rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and to determine its tissue-specific bioconcentration. Juvenile rainbow trout were exposed for 21 and 42 days to three concentration levels of atenolol (1 μg L(-1) - environmentally relevant concentration, 10 μg L(-1), and 1000 μg L(-1)). The fish exposed to 1 μg L(-1) atenolol exhibited a higher lactate content in the blood plasma and a reduced haemoglobin content compared with the control. The results show that exposure to atenolol at concentrations greater than or equal to 10 μg L(-1) significantly reduces both the haematocrit value and the glucose concentration in the blood plasma. The activities of the studied antioxidant enzymes (catalase and superoxide dismutase) were not significantly affected by atenolol exposure, and only the highest tested concentration of atenolol significantly reduced the activity of glutathione reductase. The activities of selected CYP450 enzymes were not affected by atenolol exposure. The histological changes indicate that atenolol has an effect on the vascular system, as evidenced by the observed liver congestion and changes in the pericardium and myocardium. Atenolol was found to have a very low bioconcentration factor (the highest value found was 0.27). The bioconcentration levels followed the order liver>kidney>muscle. The concentration of atenolol in the blood plasma was below the limit of quantification (2.0 ng g(-1)). The bioconcentration factors and the activities of selected CYP450 enzymes suggest that atenolol is not metabolised in the liver and may be excreted unchanged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Steinbach
- Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology, South Bohemian Research Centre of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, CZ-38925 Vodnany, Czech Republic.
| | - Viktoriia Burkina
- Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology, South Bohemian Research Centre of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, CZ-38925 Vodnany, Czech Republic
| | - Ganna Fedorova
- Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology, South Bohemian Research Centre of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, CZ-38925 Vodnany, Czech Republic
| | - Katerina Grabicova
- Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology, South Bohemian Research Centre of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, CZ-38925 Vodnany, Czech Republic
| | - Alzbeta Stara
- Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology, South Bohemian Research Centre of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, CZ-38925 Vodnany, Czech Republic
| | - Josef Velisek
- Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology, South Bohemian Research Centre of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, CZ-38925 Vodnany, Czech Republic
| | - Vladimir Zlabek
- Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology, South Bohemian Research Centre of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, CZ-38925 Vodnany, Czech Republic
| | - Heike Schmidt-Posthaus
- Centre for Fish and Wildlife Health, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, University of Bern, Laenggass-Strasse 122, 3001 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Roman Grabic
- Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology, South Bohemian Research Centre of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, CZ-38925 Vodnany, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Kocour Kroupova
- Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology, South Bohemian Research Centre of Aquaculture and Biodiversity of Hydrocenoses, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, CZ-38925 Vodnany, Czech Republic
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McEneff G, Barron L, Kelleher B, Paull B, Quinn B. The determination of pharmaceutical residues in cooked and uncooked marine bivalves using pressurised liquid extraction, solid-phase extraction and liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Anal Bioanal Chem 2014; 405:9509-21. [PMID: 24367803 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-013-7371-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2013] [Revised: 09/05/2013] [Accepted: 09/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
An optimised and validated method for the determination of pharmaceutical residues in blue mussels (Mytilus spp.) is presented herein, as well as an investigation of the effect of cooking (by steaming) on any potential difference in human exposure risk. Selected pharmaceuticals included two non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (diclofenac and mefenamic acid), an antibiotic (trimethoprim), an anti-epileptic (carbamazepine) and a lipid regulator (gemfibrozil). An in vivo exposure experiment was set up in the laboratory in which mussels were exposed either directly by injection (10 ng) or daily through spiked artificial seawater (ASW) over 96 h. In liquid matrices, pharmaceutical residues were either determined using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) directly, or in combination with solid-phase extraction (SPE) for analyte concentration purposes. The extraction of pharmaceuticals from mussel tissues used an additional pressurised liquid extraction step prior to SPE and LCMS/MS. Limits of quantification of between 2 and 46 ng L−1 were achieved for extracted cooking water and ASW, between 2 and 64 μg L−1 for ASW in exposure tanks, and between 4 and 29 ng g−1 for mussel tissue. Method linearities were achieved for pharmaceuticals in each matrix with correlation coefficients of R2>0.975. A selection of exposed mussels was also cooked (via steaming) and analysed using the optimised method to observe any effect on detectable concentrations of parent pharmaceuticals present. An overall increase in pharmaceutical residues in the contaminated mussel tissue and cooking water was observed after cooking.
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45
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46
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Holm G, Snape JR, Murray-Smith R, Talbot J, Taylor D, Sörme P. Implementing ecopharmacovigilance in practice: challenges and potential opportunities. Drug Saf 2014; 36:533-46. [PMID: 23620169 PMCID: PMC3691479 DOI: 10.1007/s40264-013-0049-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Ecopharmacovigilance (EPV) is a developing science and it is currently very unclear what it might mean in practice. We have performed a comparison between pharmacovigilance (PV) and EPV and have identified that there are similarities, but also some important differences that must be considered before any practical implementation of EPV. The biggest difference and greatest challenge concerns signal detection in the environment and the difficulty of identifying cause and effect. We reflect on the dramatic vulture decline in Asia, which was caused by the veterinary use of diclofenac, versus the relative difficulty in identifying the specific causes of intersex fish in European rivers. We explore what EPV might mean in practice and have identified that there are some practical measures that can be taken to assess environmental risks across product life cycle, particularly after launch of a new drug, to ensure that our risk assessments and scientific understanding of pharmaceuticals in the environment remain scientifically and ecologically relevant. These include:Tracking environmental risks after launch of the product, via literature monitoring for emerging data on exposure and effects Using Environmental Risk Management Plans (ERMPs) as a centralized resource to assess and manage the risks of a drug throughout its life cycle Further research, testing or monitoring in the environment when a risk is identified Keeping a global EPV perspective Increasing transparency and availability of environmental data for medicinal products. These measures will help to ensure that any significant environmental issues associated with pharmaceuticals in the environment (PIE) are identified in a timely way, and can be managed appropriately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisela Holm
- AstraZeneca, Safety Health and Environment, 151 85 Södertälje, Sweden.
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47
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Rand-Weaver M, Margiotta-Casaluci L, Patel A, Panter GH, Owen SF, Sumpter JP. The read-across hypothesis and environmental risk assessment of pharmaceuticals. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2013; 47:11384-95. [PMID: 24006913 PMCID: PMC3864244 DOI: 10.1021/es402065a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2013] [Revised: 09/04/2013] [Accepted: 09/05/2013] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Pharmaceuticals in the environment have received increased attention over the past decade, as they are ubiquitous in rivers and waterways. Concentrations are in sub-ng to low μg/L, well below acute toxic levels, but there are uncertainties regarding the effects of chronic exposures and there is a need to prioritise which pharmaceuticals may be of concern. The read-across hypothesis stipulates that a drug will have an effect in non-target organisms only if the molecular targets such as receptors and enzymes have been conserved, resulting in a (specific) pharmacological effect only if plasma concentrations are similar to human therapeutic concentrations. If this holds true for different classes of pharmaceuticals, it should be possible to predict the potential environmental impact from information obtained during the drug development process. This paper critically reviews the evidence for read-across, and finds that few studies include plasma concentrations and mode of action based effects. Thus, despite a large number of apparently relevant papers and a general acceptance of the hypothesis, there is an absence of documented evidence. There is a need for large-scale studies to generate robust data for testing the read-across hypothesis and developing predictive models, the only feasible approach to protecting the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariann Rand-Weaver
- Biosciences, School
of Health Sciences and Social Care, Brunel University, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB8 3PH, United Kingdom
- (M.R.-W.) Phone: +44(0)1895
266297; fax: +44(0)1895 273545; e-mail:
| | | | - Alpa Patel
- Biosciences, School
of Health Sciences and Social Care, Brunel University, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB8 3PH, United Kingdom
- Institute
for the Environment, Brunel University, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB8 3PH, United Kingdom
| | - Grace H. Panter
- AstraZeneca, Brixham Environmental Laboratory, Freshwater
Quarry, Brixham, Devon, TQ5 8BA, United Kingdom
| | - Stewart F. Owen
- AstraZeneca, Brixham Environmental Laboratory, Freshwater
Quarry, Brixham, Devon, TQ5 8BA, United Kingdom
| | - John P. Sumpter
- Institute
for the Environment, Brunel University, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB8 3PH, United Kingdom
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Franzellitti S, Buratti S, Valbonesi P, Fabbri E. The mode of action (MOA) approach reveals interactive effects of environmental pharmaceuticals on Mytilus galloprovincialis. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2013; 140-141:249-256. [PMID: 23831970 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2013.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2013] [Revised: 06/04/2013] [Accepted: 06/07/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Aquatic organisms are unintentionally exposed to a large number of pharmaceutical residues in their natural habitats. Ecotoxicological studies have agreed that these compounds are not harmful to aquatic organisms, as their environmental concentrations are typically too low. However, recent reports have shown biological effects at such low concentrations when biological endpoints related to the therapeutic effects are assessed. Therefore, conservation of molecular targets is now addressed as a key aspect for the development of more efficient test strategies for pharmaceutical environmental risk assessment, providing the rationale for the mode of action (MOA) approach. In the present study the MOA approach was used to investigate the interactive effects of fluoxetine (FX) and propranolol (PROP) on the Mediterranean mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis). Indeed, organisms in the environment are exposed to pharmaceutical mixtures throughout their lifetime, and particular combinations may be of concern. The antidepressant FX increases serotonin (5-HT) levels in the synaptic cleft by inhibiting 5-HT reuptake. PROP, a prototypical β-adrenoceptor antagonist, also blocks 5-HT1 receptors, which are negatively coupled to cAMP-mediated signaling. Cell signaling alterations potentially triggered by 5-HT1 receptor occupation were therefore assessed after a 7-day mussel exposure to FX or PROP, alone or in combination, each at 0.3 ng/L concentration. FX decreased cAMP levels and PKA activities in digestive gland and mantle/gonads, in agreement with an increased occupation of 5-HT1 receptors. PROP caused a decrease in cAMP levels and PKA activities in digestive gland and an increase in cAMP levels in mantle/gonads, consistent with a differential expression of adrenergic and 5-HT receptors in the two tissues. Co-exposure to FX and PROP provides significant indications for antagonistic effects of the pharmaceuticals, consistent with a direct (PROP) and indirect (FX) action on the same molecular target. Interestingly, FX induced over-expression of a 5-HT1 gene product, and PROP counteracted such increase when the mixture was administered, while having per se no effect. Finally, mRNA expression of the ABCB gene encoding the MXR-related transporter P-glycoprotein was reduced by both pharmaceuticals in the digestive gland, while decreased by FX, increased by PROP, and not affected by the mixture in mantle/gonads. Since transcription of this gene product is under cAMP/PKA modulation, the impairment of regulatory pathways triggered by low concentrations of pharmaceuticals have the potential to affect the ability of animals to elaborate strategies of defense or adaptation toward further stress factors. In this specific case, the pharmaceutical mixture limits the detrimental effects of the single compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Franzellitti
- University of Bologna, Interdepartment Centre for Environmental Science Research, via S. Alberto 163, 48123 Ravenna, Italy.
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49
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Pharmaceuticals in the Built and Natural Water Environment of the United States. WATER 2013. [DOI: 10.3390/w5031346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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50
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Analysis of Pharmaceutical Compounds in Biota. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-62657-8.00006-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
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