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Yu W, Yu F, Li M, Yang F, Wang H, Song H, Huang X. Quantitative association between lead exposure and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a Bayesian network-based predictive study. Environ Health 2024; 23:2. [PMID: 38166850 PMCID: PMC10763408 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-023-01041-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental lead (Pb) exposure have been suggested as a causative factor for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, the role of Pb content of human body in ALS outcomes has not been quantified clearly. The purpose of this study was to apply Bayesian networks to forecast the risk of Pb exposure on the disease occurrence. METHODS We retrospectively collected medical records of ALS inpatients who underwent blood Pb testing, while matched controlled inpatients on age, gender, hospital ward and admission time according to the radio of 1:9. Tree Augmented Naïve Bayes (TAN), a semi-naïve Bayes classifier, was established to predict probability of ALS or controls with risk factors. RESULTS A total of 140 inpatients were included in this study. The whole blood Pb levels of ALS patients (57.00 μg/L) were more than twice as high as the controls (27.71 μg/L). Using the blood Pb concentrations to calculate probability of ALS, TAN produced the total coincidence rate of 90.00%. The specificity, sensitivity of Pb for ALS prediction was 0.79, or 0.74, respectively. CONCLUSION Therefore, these results provided quantitative evidence that Pb exposure may contribute to the development of ALS. Bayesian networks may be used to predict the ALS early onset with blood Pb levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxiu Yu
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, 100853, China
- Neurological Department of the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Fangfang Yu
- Department of Medical Innovation Research, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Mao Li
- Neurological Department of the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Fei Yang
- Neurological Department of the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Hongfen Wang
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, 100853, China
- Neurological Department of the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Han Song
- Department of Health Service, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China.
| | - Xusheng Huang
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, 100853, China.
- Neurological Department of the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China.
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2
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Lu J, Wang W, Zhang C, Xu W, Chen W, Tao L, Li Z, Cheng J, Zhang Y. Characterization of glyphosate-induced cardiovascular toxicity and apoptosis in zebrafish. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 851:158308. [PMID: 36030873 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Glyphosate, the most widely used herbicide, presents new hazards to human health. The developmental toxicity of glyphosate, especially its cardiovascular toxicity, needs to be closely monitored. To understand how glyphosate affects development, we performed toxicity tests on zebrafish embryos that were continuously exposed to glyphosate. The results indicated that glyphosate affected the overall development of zebrafish embryos, including mortality, hatching abnormalities, and decreased body length. At the same time, zebrafish embryos exposed to glyphosate exhibited cardiac malformations, including enlarged chambers, thinned ventricular walls, and rhythm disturbances. In addition, defective intersegmental vasculature occurred after glyphosate exposure, indicating impaired angiogenesis. Mechanistically, apoptosis clustered in the heart and vascular regions and levels of ATP and apoptosis-related genes including caspase-3, caspase-9, bax, and bcl-2 were altered. In summary, the data showed that cardiovascular toxicity caused by glyphosate exposure may be related to apoptosis. Our study provides evidence for a link between glyphosate exposure and cardiovascular developmental toxicity. This raises concerns regarding the health risks of the glyphosate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Lu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Weiguo Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Department of Pathology, UT southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, United States
| | - Wenping Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Weidong Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Liming Tao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Zhong Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Jiagao Cheng
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China.
| | - Yang Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China.
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3
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Curcio V, Macirella R, Sesti S, Ahmed AIM, Talarico F, Pizzolotto R, Tagarelli A, Mezzasalma M, Brunelli E. The role of exposure window and dose in determining lead toxicity in developing Zebrafish. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 307:136095. [PMID: 35995187 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Heavy metal contamination is recognized worldwide as a serious threat to human health and wildlife, and reducing their emissions is a priority of international and EU actions. Due to its persistence, high bioaccumulation tendency, and toxicity properties, lead (Pb) is one of the heavy metals of greatest concern. Even at low concentrations, lead induces various clinical and subclinical conditions in both humans and animals, and it has been included in the priority list of hazardous substances. In the present study, we used zebrafish's early stages as a model, given their well-acknowledged predictive value in the risk assessment of chemicals. This study was designed to investigate the morphological and morphometric alterations induced by Pb during zebrafish's early development and disclose the putative effects stage- and/or dose-dependent. We examined injuries induced by two environmentally relevant and extremely low concentrations of Pb (2.5 μg/L and 5 μg/L) during two exposure windows: early (between 1 and 7 dpf) and late (between 2 and 8 dpf). We clearly demonstrated that the incidence and severity of morphological abnormalities increased with increasing Pb dose and exposure time in both early and late-exposed groups. Furthermore, we revealed that malformation severity was significantly higher in the early exposed group than in the late exposure group at all exposure times and for both tested doses, thus highlighting the high sensitivity of zebrafish during the initial stages of development. The information presented in this paper emphasizes the effectiveness of morphological biomarkers in unveiling threatening situations and supports the role of zebrafish embryos and larvae in risk assessment and environmental monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Curcio
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science (DiBEST) - University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci 4/B, 87036, Rende, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Rachele Macirella
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science (DiBEST) - University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci 4/B, 87036, Rende, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Settimio Sesti
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science (DiBEST) - University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci 4/B, 87036, Rende, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Abdalmoiz I M Ahmed
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science (DiBEST) - University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci 4/B, 87036, Rende, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Federica Talarico
- Natural History Museum and Botanical Garden, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Roberto Pizzolotto
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science (DiBEST) - University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci 4/B, 87036, Rende, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Antonio Tagarelli
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Tecnologie Chimiche, Università Della Calabria, Rende, 87036, Italy
| | - Marcello Mezzasalma
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science (DiBEST) - University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci 4/B, 87036, Rende, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Elvira Brunelli
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science (DiBEST) - University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci 4/B, 87036, Rende, Cosenza, Italy.
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Lead Exposure Causes Spinal Curvature during Embryonic Development in Zebrafish. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23179571. [PMID: 36076969 PMCID: PMC9455242 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Lead (Pb) is an important raw material for modern industrial production, they enter the aquatic environment in several ways and cause serious harm to aquatic ecosystems. Lead ions (Pb2+) are highly toxic and can accumulate continuously in organisms. In addition to causing biological deaths, it can also cause neurological damage in vertebrates. Our experiment found that Pb2+ caused decreased survival, delayed hatching, decreased frequency of voluntary movements at 24 hpf, increased heart rate at 48 hpf and increased malformation rate in zebrafish embryos. Among them, the morphology of spinal malformations varied, with 0.4 mg/L Pb2+ causing a dorsal bending of the spine of 72 hpf zebrafish and a ventral bending in 120 hpf zebrafish. It was detected that spinal malformations were mainly caused by Pb2+-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis. The genetic changes in somatic segment development which disrupted developmental polarity as well as osteogenesis, resulting in uneven myotomal development. In contrast, calcium ions can rescue the series of responses induced by lead exposure and reduce the occurrence of spinal curvature. This article proposes new findings of lead pollution toxicity in zebrafish.
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5
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Morphological and Functional Alterations Induced by Two Ecologically Relevant Concentrations of Lead on Danio rerio Gills. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169165. [PMID: 36012426 PMCID: PMC9409012 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Lead (Pb), due to its high toxicity and bioaccumulation tendency, is one of the top three pollutants of concern for both humans and wildlife and occupies second place in the Priority List of Hazardous Substances. In freshwater fish, Pb is mainly absorbed through the gills, where the greatest accumulation occurs. Despite the crucial role of gills in several physiological functions such as gas exchange, water balance, and osmoregulation, no studies evaluated the effects of environmentally relevant concentrations of Pb on this organ, and existing literature only refers to high levels of exposure. Herein we investigated for the first time the molecular and morphological effects induced by two low and environmentally relevant concentrations of Pb (2.5 and 5 μg/L) on the gills of Danio rerio, a model species with a high translational value for human toxicity. It was demonstrated that Pb administration at even low doses induces osmoregulatory dysfunctions by affecting Na+/K+-ATPase and AQP3 expression. It was also shown that Pb upregulates MTs as a protective response to prevent cell damage. Modulation of SOD confirms that the production of reactive oxygen species is an important toxicity mechanism of Pb. Histological and morphometric analysis revealed conspicuous pathological changes, both dose- and time-dependent.
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6
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Xu Y, Zhao H, Wang Z, Gao H, Liu J, Li K, Song Z, Yuan C, Lan X, Pan C, Zhang S. Developmental exposure to environmental levels of cadmium induces neurotoxicity and activates microglia in zebrafish larvae: From the perspectives of neurobehavior and neuroimaging. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 291:132802. [PMID: 34752834 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.132802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a worldwide environmental pollutant that postures serious threats to humans and ecosystems. Over the years, its adverse effects on the central nervous system (CNS) have been concerned, whereas the underlying cellular/molecular mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, taking advantages of zebrafish model in high-throughput imaging and behavioral tests, we have explored the potential developmental neurotoxicity of Cd at environmentally relevant levels, from the perspectives of neurobehavior and neuroimaging. Briefly, Cd2+ exposure resulted in a general impairment of zebrafish early development. Zebrafish neurobehavioral patterns including locomotion and reactivity to environmental signals were significantly perturbed upon Cd2+ exposure. Importantly, a combination of in vivo two-photon neuroimaging, flow cytometry and gene expression analyses revealed notable neurodevelopmental disorders as well as neuroimmune responses induced by Cd2+ exposure. Both cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis contributed jointly to a significant decrease of neuronal density in zebrafish larvae exposed to Cd2+. The dramatic morphological alterations of microglia from multi-branched to amoeboid, the microgliosis, as well as the modulation of gene expression profiles demonstrated a strong activation of microglia and neuroinflammation triggered by environmental levels of Cd2+. Together, our study points to the developmental toxicity of Cd in inducing CNS impairment and neuroinflammation thereby providing visualized etiological evidence of this heavy metal induced neurodevelopmental disorders. It's tempting to speculate that this research model might represent a promising tool not only for understanding the molecular mechanisms of Cd-induced neurotoxicity, but also for developing pharmacotherapies to mitigate the neurological damage resulting from exposure to Cd, and other neurotoxicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyi Xu
- School of Life Sciences, Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, Lanzhou University, No. 222 South Tianshui Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu Province, China
| | - Haiyu Zhao
- School of Life Sciences, Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, Lanzhou University, No. 222 South Tianshui Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu Province, China.
| | - Zuo Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, Lanzhou University, No. 222 South Tianshui Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu Province, China
| | - Hao Gao
- School of Life Sciences, Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, Lanzhou University, No. 222 South Tianshui Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu Province, China
| | - Junru Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, Lanzhou University, No. 222 South Tianshui Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu Province, China
| | - Kemin Li
- School of Life Sciences, Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, Lanzhou University, No. 222 South Tianshui Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu Province, China
| | - Zan Song
- School of Life Sciences, Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, Lanzhou University, No. 222 South Tianshui Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu Province, China
| | - Cong Yuan
- School of Life Sciences, Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, Lanzhou University, No. 222 South Tianshui Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu Province, China
| | - Xianyong Lan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No. 22 Xinong Road, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Chuanying Pan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No. 22 Xinong Road, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Shengxiang Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Gansu Key Laboratory of Biomonitoring and Bioremediation for Environmental Pollution, Lanzhou University, No. 222 South Tianshui Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu Province, China.
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Jahan Toma N, Anwar S, Kabir T, Hosen MJ. Lead and lead-arsenic combined exposure induces mortality and developmental impairments in zebrafish embryos: a study using wild-caught zebrafish from Bangladesh. Drug Chem Toxicol 2021; 45:2833-2842. [PMID: 34747291 DOI: 10.1080/01480545.2021.1996594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Heavy metal toxicity has become a global health burden, exerting various physiological effects on aquatic animals and humans. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) has emerged as a real-time model system for toxicological study. We previously reported the effects of arsenic on the embryonic development of zebrafish. The current study aimed to get deep insights into the toxic effects of another heavy metal, lead, on the early embryonic development of wild-caught zebrafish. We exposed freshly collected zebrafish embryos to different lead concentrations and studied different developmental and morphological changes using an inverted microscope. In a separate experiment, embryos were exposed to a combination of lead and arsenic to evaluate the combined effects of the elements. Lead concentration of as low as 0.25 mM resulted in developmental and morphological abnormalities in the zebrafish embryos. Exposure to different concentrations (0.25 mM, 0.5 mM, and 0.75 mM) caused a higher mortality rate of the embryos. Besides, an increased rate of arrested hatching, irregularities in size and shape of the yolk sac, deformed otic vesicle, and body curvature were observed in a dose-dependent manner. Lead exposure also resulted in reduced heart rate and severe pericardial edema. The combined effect of minimum concentrations of lead and arsenic that causes toxicity individually (0.25 mM and 1.0 mM, respectively) revealed a more severe effect than the individual treatments. This study's findings explain the association of heavy metal exposure with an increased rate of miscarriage/abortion incidences in highly polluted areas assisting in proper management and creating public awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nusrat Jahan Toma
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet, Bangladesh
| | - Saeed Anwar
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet, Bangladesh
| | - Tamanna Kabir
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Jakir Hosen
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet, Bangladesh
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8
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Shankar P, Dashner-Titus EJ, Truong L, Hayward K, Hudson LG, Tanguay RL. Developmental toxicity in zebrafish (Danio rerio) exposed to uranium: A comparison with lead, cadmium, and iron. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 269:116097. [PMID: 33246768 PMCID: PMC7785642 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.116097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Populations of plants and animals, including humans, living in close proximity to abandoned uranium mine sites are vulnerable to uranium exposure through drainage into nearby waterways, soil accumulation, and blowing dust from surface soils. Little is known about how the environmental impact of uranium exposure alters the health of human populations in proximity to mine sites, so we used developmental zebrafish (Danio rerio) to investigate uranium toxicity. Fish are a sensitive target for modeling uranium toxicity, and previous studies report altered reproductive capacity, enhanced DNA damage, and gene expression changes in fish exposed to uranium. In our study, dechorionated zebrafish embryos were exposed to a concentration range of uranyl acetate (UA) from 0 to 3000 μg/L for body burden measurements and developmental toxicity assessments. Uranium was taken up in a concentration-dependent manner by 48 and 120 h post fertilization (hpf)-zebrafish without evidence of bioaccumulation. Exposure to UA was not associated with teratogenic outcomes or 24 hpf behavioral effects, but larvae at 120 hpf exhibited a significant hypoactive photomotor response associated with exposure to 3 μg/L UA which suggested potential neurotoxicity. To our knowledge, this is the first time that uranium has been associated with behavioral effects in an aquatic organism. These results were compared to potential metal co-contaminants using the same exposure paradigm. Similar to uranium exposure, lead, cadmium, and iron significantly altered neurobehavioral outcomes in 120-hpf zebrafish without inducing significant teratogenicity. Our study informs concerns about the potential impacts of developmental exposure to uranium on childhood neurobehavioral outcomes. This work also sets the stage for future, environmentally relevant metal mixture studies. Summary Uranium exposure to developing zebrafish causes hypoactive larval swimming behavior similar to the effect of other commonly occurring metals in uranium mine sites. This is the first time that uranium exposure has been associated with altered neurobehavioral effects in any aquatic organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prarthana Shankar
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Erica J Dashner-Titus
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Lisa Truong
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Kimberly Hayward
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Laurie G Hudson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Robyn L Tanguay
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA.
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Chronic Exposure to Low Concentration Lead Chloride-Induced Anxiety and Loss of Aggression and Memory in Zebrafish. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051844. [PMID: 32156000 PMCID: PMC7084271 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Lead and lead-derived compounds have been extensively utilized in industry, and their chronic toxicity towards aquatic animals has not been thoroughly addressed at a behavioral level. In this study, we assessed the risk of exposure to lead at a waterborne environmental concentration in adult zebrafish by behavioral and biochemical analyses. Nine tests, including three-dimension (3D) locomotion, novel tank exploration, mirror biting, predator avoidance, social interaction, shoaling, circadian rhythm locomotor activity, color preference, and a short-term memory test, were performed to assess the behavior of adult zebrafish after the exposure to 50 ppb PbCl2 for one month. The brain tissues were dissected and subjected to biochemical assays to measure the relative expression of stress biomarkers and neurotransmitters to elucidate the underlying mechanisms for behavioral alterations. The results of the behavioral tests showed that chronic exposure to lead could elevate the stress and anxiety levels characterized by elevated freezing and reduced exploratory behaviors. The chronic exposure to PbCl2 at a low concentration also induced a sharp reduction of aggressiveness and short-term memory. However, no significant change was found in predator avoidance, social interaction, shoaling, or color preference. The biochemical assays showed elevated cortisol and reduced serotonin and melatonin levels in the brain, thus, altering the behavior of the PbCl2-exposed zebrafish. In general, this study determined the potential ecotoxicity of long-term lead exposure in adult zebrafish through multiple behavioral assessments. The significant findings were that even at a low concentration, long-term exposure to lead could impair the memory and cause a decrease in the aggressiveness and exploratory activities of zebrafish, which may reduce their survival fitness.
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Monear NC, Xhabija B. The effect of lead during the Flint water crisis on mouse embryonic stem cells self-renewal and differentiation markers. Toxicol In Vitro 2019; 63:104719. [PMID: 31715224 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2019.104719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Revised: 10/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
During the Flint water crisis, the residents of Flint, Michigan experienced a significant increase in blood lead levels. For some this resulted in an increase as high as 40 μg/dL from 5 μg/dL, which is considered to be safe by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Since the extent of the effect of the lead exposure in early embryonic development is not greatly investigated, the aim of this study is to explore the effect of lead exposure at concentrations present in Flint, MI during the Flint water crisis in the embryonic development. The expression of pluripotency and self-renewal markers (Oct4, Sox2, Nanog and Zfp-42) coupled with morphological and alkaline phosphatase assays revealed that mouse embryonic stem cells (mESC) pluripotency and self-renewal capabilities are perturbed following exposure in a lead acetate concentration dependent manner. Moreover, mouse embryoid bodies (mEB), which provide ideal models for testing toxicity in vitro, revealed that lead acetate exposure induces fewer but larger mEBs, whereas gene expression analysis of lineage specific transcription factors showed an increased mRNA level of endodermal (Gata 4, Gata 6, Sox 7) and mesodermal markers (Eomes, Hand 1, Slug 1) while the mRNA level of ectodermal markers (Otx 2, Noggin, Sox 1) decreased. Taken all together, these results indicate that lead acetate disturbs the pluripotency of mESC and differentiation potential of mEBs by inhibiting differentiation towards ectodermal lineages and inducing it towards endodermal and mesodermal lineages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicodemus C Monear
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Michigan- Flint, Flint, MI 48502, United States of America
| | - Besa Xhabija
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Michigan- Flint, Flint, MI 48502, United States of America.
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Abstract
Abstract
The bio-relevant metals (and derived compounds) of the Periodic Table of the Elements (PTE) are in the focus. The bulk elements sodium (Na), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), and calcium (Ca) from the s-block, which are essential for all kingdoms of life, and some of their bio-activities are discussed. The trace elements of the d-block of the PTE as far as they are essential for humans (Mn, Fe, Co, Cu, Zn, Mo) are emphasized, but V, Ni, Cd, and W, which are essential only for some forms of life, are also considered. Chromium is no longer classified as being essential. From the p-block metals only the metalloid (half-metal) selenium (Se) is essential for all forms of life. Two other metalloids, silicon and arsenic, are briefly mentioned, but they have not been proven as being essential for humans. All metals of the PTE and a plethora of their compounds are used in industry and many of them are highly toxic, like lead (Pb), which is discussed as a prime example. Several metals of the PTE, that is, their ions and complexes, are employed in medicine and we discuss the role of lithium, gallium, strontium, technetium, silver, gadolinium (the only f-block element), platinum, and gold.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helmut Sigel
- Department of Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry , University of Basel , Spitalstrasse 51 , CH-4056 Basel , Switzerland
| | - Astrid Sigel
- Department of Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry , University of Basel , Spitalstrasse 51 , CH-4056 Basel , Switzerland
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Villa-Cedillo SA, Nava-Hernández MP, Soto-Domínguez A, Hernández-Ibarra JA, Perez-Trujillo JJ, Saucedo-Cárdenas O. Neurodegeneration, demyelination, and astrogliosis in rat spinal cord by chronic lead treatment. Cell Biol Int 2019; 43:706-714. [PMID: 30977573 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Early exposure to lead (Pb) has been associated with an elevated risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases. There is evidence that neuronal damage in chronic Pb exposure can be caused by the convergence of glial damage. Apoptosis may be a possible mechanism of Pb-induced cell death in the central nervous system. We tested cellular damage and apoptosis in the spinal cord of Wistar rats treated with Pb. Twelve rats were divided into two groups (n = 6): the control group was treated with only drinking water and the other group received 500 ppm of Pb acetate. After 3 months of Pb treatment, all animals were euthanized and spinal cords were extracted. Morphology was evaluated by Nissl and Kluver-Barrera stainings. Apoptosis was detected by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay. Specific antibodies were used to evaluate Pb damage in oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, and microglia. A large number of apoptotic bodies was observed in the white matter of the Pb-treated group. The Pb-treated group also showed a reduced number of neurons and oligodendrocytes but had an increased number of astrocytes compared with the nontreated group. Our results demonstrate that chronic Pb treatment induces neurodegeneration, demyelination, and astrogliosis in the rat spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila Adela Villa-Cedillo
- Departamento de Histología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL), Madero y Dr. Aguirre Pequeño, Mitras Centro, 64460, Monterrey, Nuevo León, México
| | - Martha Patricia Nava-Hernández
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila, Calle A. García 198 Sur, 27000, Torreón, Coahuila, México
| | - Adolfo Soto-Domínguez
- Departamento de Histología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL), Madero y Dr. Aguirre Pequeño, Mitras Centro, 64460, Monterrey, Nuevo León, México
| | - José Anselmo Hernández-Ibarra
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila, Calle A. García 198 Sur, 27000, Torreón, Coahuila, México
| | - José Juan Perez-Trujillo
- Departamento de Histología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL), Madero y Dr. Aguirre Pequeño, Mitras Centro, 64460, Monterrey, Nuevo León, México
| | - Odila Saucedo-Cárdenas
- Departamento de Histología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL), Madero y Dr. Aguirre Pequeño, Mitras Centro, 64460, Monterrey, Nuevo León, México.,Departamento de Genética Molecular, Centro de Investigación Biomédica del Noreste, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), 2 de abril con San Luis Potosí, Colonia Independencia, 64460, Monterrey, Nuevo León, México
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13
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Amini Z, Mahdavi-Shahri N, Lari R, Behnam Rassouli F. The effects of lead on the development of somites in chick embryos ( Gallus gallus domesticus) under in vitro conditions: a histological study. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2019; 8:373-380. [PMID: 31160971 PMCID: PMC6505386 DOI: 10.1039/c8tx00340h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Lead (Pb) is one of the most abundant toxic metals in the environment that can cause a variety of harmful effects. During embryonic development of vertebrates, somites are temporary organs that give rise to skeletal muscle, cartilage, tendon, endothelial cells, and dermis. In this study, we investigated the effects of lead on the development of somites and their derivatives in chick embryos under in vitro conditions. For this propose, fertilized eggs of Gallus gallus domesticus were incubated until they reached the stage of 15-20 somites. The somites and notochord were isolated and treated with different concentrations of lead acetate (500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 ng ml-1) for 72 h. Our results indicated that high concentrations of lead reduced the nucleus diameter, reduced the synthesis of collagen, inhibited the formation of the cartilage matrix in somite cells, and disturbed the formation and order of myotubes. In conclusion, the results of the current study for the first time indicated the disturbing effects of lead on the development of somites in the chick embryo. Our results revealed that lead disturbed the development of somites in the chick embryo, which suggested that at high concentrations it can cause a serious mortal danger to life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Amini
- Department of Biology , Faculty of Science , Ferdowsi University of Mashhad , Mashhad , Iran . ; Tel: (+98) 51-38805511
| | - Naser Mahdavi-Shahri
- Department of Biology , Faculty of Science , Ferdowsi University of Mashhad , Mashhad , Iran . ; Tel: (+98) 51-38805511
- Ferdowsi University of Mashhad , Faculty of Sciences , Institute of Applied Zoology, Research Department of Zoological Innovations (RDZI) , Mashhad , Iran
| | - Roya Lari
- Department of Biology , Faculty of Science , Ferdowsi University of Mashhad , Mashhad , Iran . ; Tel: (+98) 51-38805511
- Ferdowsi University of Mashhad , Faculty of Sciences , Institute of Applied Zoology, Research Department of Zoological Innovations (RDZI) , Mashhad , Iran
| | - Fatemeh Behnam Rassouli
- Department of Biology , Faculty of Science , Ferdowsi University of Mashhad , Mashhad , Iran . ; Tel: (+98) 51-38805511
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14
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Awodele O, Kale O, Odewabi A, Ekor M, Salau B, Adefule-Ositelu A. Safety evaluation of Bon-santé cleanser ® polyherbal in male Wistar rats: Further investigations on androgenic and toxicological profile. J Tradit Complement Med 2018; 8:212-219. [PMID: 29322011 PMCID: PMC5756022 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcme.2017.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2017] [Revised: 05/21/2017] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The global increase in acceptance and use of herbal remedies in recent times is still accompanied with poor knowledge of their potential adverse effects and the toxicological implications of their use are underestimated. METHODS Bon-santé Cleanser® (BSC), a polyherbal containing Anogeissus leiocarpus, Terminalia ivorensis, Massularia acuminate and Macuna pruriens, is an "energizer and hormone booster". We assessed the effect of BSC on reproductive function after administration for 60 days in male Wistar rats. Rats (150-300 g) were assigned into four groups of 8/group. Control received distilled water (10 ml/kg) while other groups received BSC 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg/day p.o. respectively. Animals were euthanized by cervical dislocation and samples collected for analysis. RESULTS BSC (250 mg/kg) elevated (p < 0.05) follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone levels respectively. BSC decreased sperm motility and the live-dead ratio at 1000 mg/kg and reduced reproductive hormone at 500 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg respectively. BSC at 500 mg/kg increased (p < 0.05, F = 3.18-13.21) testicular reduced glutathione level (50.3%) and catalase (43.7%) but not activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione S-transferase, and malondialdehyde level. Further, BSC influenced Mg, Zn, Cu, P, Mn, Ni and Fe levels (p < 0.05). BSC (1000 mg/kg) decreased testis weight (p < 0.05) and induced mild inflammation characterized by atrophic tubules. CONCLUSION Overall, our data suggest BSC at low doses may increase reproductive hormones regulated by FSH and LH as observed in this study. However, BSC administration should be done with caution as it may induce reproductive toxicity in large doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- O. Awodele
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics, and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Nigeria
| | - O.E. Kale
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics, and Toxicology, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Nigeria
- Department of Pharmacology, Benjamin Carson (Snr.) School of Medicine, Babcock University, Nigeria
| | - A.O. Odewabi
- Department of Chemical Pathology, Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria
| | - M. Ekor
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - B.A. Salau
- Department of Chemical sciences, Redeemers University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
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15
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Fan X, Wang P, Wang C, Hu B, Wang X. Lead accumulation (adsorption and absorption) by the freshwater bivalve Corbicula fluminea in sediments contaminated by TiO 2 nanoparticles. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2017; 231:712-721. [PMID: 28850939 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.08.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/20/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
With the increasing production and applications of TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs), their presence in aquatic environments, especially in sediments, will inevitably increase over time. Most studies investigating the influence of TiO2 NPs on the bioaccumulation of co-existing contaminants have focused on the aqueous phase; however, few have examined the sediment phase, which contains more TiO2 NPs and contaminants. We investigated the effects of TiO2 NPs on Pb accumulation by Corbicula fluminea in sediments, and explored extracellular and intracellular Pb concentrations in the various soft tissues of the bivalve. Pb was spiked with 50 mg/kg in sediment and TiO2 NPs/sediments ratios were within the range 0.2-3.0%. The results showed that TiO2 NPs presented larger adsorption capacity and affinity to Pb ions than the sediments. In addition, the large adsorption capacity of TiO2 NPs and the strong adsorption affinity to Pb ions caused part of the Pb ions released from sediments to aqueous phase were re-adsorbed by TiO2 NPs in sediments. The concentration of TiO2 NPs in C. fluminea tissues significantly increased with increasing TiO2 NP content in sediments, following the order: gill > mantle > foot > visceral mass, which differed from the results found in the aqueous phase. In addition, the proportions of extracellular and intracellular Pb concentrations changed significantly in all the tissues as a result of TiO2 NP contamination of sediments. TiO2 NPs promote increased extracellular Pb in foot, mantle, and gill tissues, and increased intracellular Pb in the visceral mass. These results may be beneficial to more scientifically evaluate and predict the environmental risks of TiO2 NPs to benthic organisms in sediments contaminated by heavy metals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiulei Fan
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Peifang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China.
| | - Chao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Hu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China
| | - Xun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China; College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People's Republic of China
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16
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Roy NM, Zambrzycka E, Santangelo J. Butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP) induces caudal defects during embryonic development. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2017; 56:129-135. [PMID: 28934690 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2017.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Revised: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP) is commonly added during the manufacturing of plastics to increase flexibility and elasticity. However, BBP leaches off of plastic and environment presence has been detected in soil, groundwater and sediment potentially effecting organisms in the environment. Given the widespread uses of BBP in household, consumer goods and the presence of BBP in the environment, studies on developmental toxicity are needed. Here, we use a zebrafish model to investigate the early developmental toxicity of BBP. We treated gastrula staged embryos with increasing concentrations of BBP and noted concentration-dependent defects in caudal tail development, but the effect was caudal specific with no other developmental defects noted. In situ hybridization studies using muscle and notochord markers show alterations in muscle development and non-linear, kinked notochord staining. A more detailed antibody staining using a myosin specific marker shows disorganized myofibrils and a loss of chevron shaped somites. Furthermore, vascular development in the tail was also disrupted in a concentration dependent manner. We conclude that BBP is toxic to caudal development in zebrafish. The sensitivity of zebrafish during development to environmental toxins and chemicals has been useful in assessing the health of the aquatic environment. The results presented here are a useful early warning system for contamination that could affect human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Roy
- Department of Biology, Sacred Heart University, 5151 Park Ave, Fairfield, CT, 06825, United States.
| | - Ewelina Zambrzycka
- Department of Biology, Sacred Heart University, 5151 Park Ave, Fairfield, CT, 06825, United States
| | - Jenna Santangelo
- Department of Biology, Sacred Heart University, 5151 Park Ave, Fairfield, CT, 06825, United States
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17
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Tu H, Fan C, Chen X, Liu J, Wang B, Huang Z, Zhang Y, Meng X, Zou F. Effects of cadmium, manganese, and lead on locomotor activity and neurexin 2a expression in zebrafish. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2017; 36:2147-2154. [PMID: 28120348 DOI: 10.1002/etc.3748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Revised: 11/06/2016] [Accepted: 01/20/2017] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The synaptic adhesion protein Neurexin 2a (Nrxn2a) plays a key role in neuronal development and is associated with cognitive functioning and locomotor behavior. Although low-level metal exposure poses a potential risk to the human nervous system, especially during the developmental stages, little is known about the effects of metal exposures on nrxn2a expression during embryonic development. We therefore exposed wild-type zebrafish embryos/larvae to cadmium (CdCl2 ), manganese (MnCl2 ), and lead ([CH3 COO]2 Pb), to determine their effect on mortality, malformation, and hatching rate. Concentrations of these metals in zebrafish were detected by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry analysis. Locomotor activity of zebrafish larvae was analyzed using a video-track tracking system. Expression of nrxn2a was assessed by in situ hybridization and quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The results showed that mortality, malformation, and bioaccumulation increased as the exposure dosages and duration increased. Developmental exposure to these metals significantly reduced larval swim distance and velocity. The nrxn2aa and nrxn2ab genes were expressed in the central nervous system and downregulated by almost all of the 3 metals, especially Pb. These data demonstrate that exposure to metals downregulates nrxn2a in the zebrafish model system, and this is likely linked to concurrent developmental processes. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:2147-2154. © 2017 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwei Tu
- Department of Occupational Health and Occupational Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chengji Fan
- Department of Occupational Health and Occupational Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaohui Chen
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaxian Liu
- Department of Occupational Health and Occupational Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Occupational Health and Occupational Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhibin Huang
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yiyue Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaojing Meng
- Department of Occupational Health and Occupational Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Fei Zou
- Department of Occupational Health and Occupational Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Babayigit A, Duy Thanh D, Ethirajan A, Manca J, Muller M, Boyen HG, Conings B. Assessing the toxicity of Pb- and Sn-based perovskite solar cells in model organism Danio rerio. Sci Rep 2016; 6:18721. [PMID: 26759068 PMCID: PMC4725943 DOI: 10.1038/srep18721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2015] [Accepted: 11/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Intensive development of organometal halide perovskite solar cells has lead to a dramatic surge in power conversion efficiency up to 20%. Unfortunately, the most efficient perovskite solar cells all contain lead (Pb), which is an unsettling flaw that leads to severe environmental concerns and is therefore a stumbling block envisioning their large-scale application. Aiming for the retention of favorable electro-optical properties, tin (Sn) has been considered the most likely substitute. Preliminary studies have however shown that Sn-based perovskites are highly unstable and, moreover, Sn is also enlisted as a harmful chemical, with similar concerns regarding environment and health. To bring more clarity into the appropriateness of both metals in perovskite solar cells, we provide a case study with systematic comparison regarding the environmental impact of Pb- and Sn-based perovskites, using zebrafish (Danio Rerio) as model organism. Uncovering an unexpected route of intoxication in the form of acidification, it is shown that Sn based perovskite may not be the ideal Pb surrogate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aslihan Babayigit
- Hasselt University, Institute for Materials Research, Wetenschapspark 1, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Dinh Duy Thanh
- University of Liège, Laboratory for Organogenesis and Regeneration, GIGA-Research, B34, Avenue de l'Hôpital 1, 4000 Sart-Tilman, Belgium
| | - Anitha Ethirajan
- Hasselt University, Institute for Materials Research, Wetenschapspark 1, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Jean Manca
- Hasselt University, X-LaB, Agoralaan 1, Building D, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Marc Muller
- University of Liège, Laboratory for Organogenesis and Regeneration, GIGA-Research, B34, Avenue de l'Hôpital 1, 4000 Sart-Tilman, Belgium
| | - Hans-Gerd Boyen
- Hasselt University, Institute for Materials Research, Wetenschapspark 1, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Bert Conings
- Hasselt University, Institute for Materials Research, Wetenschapspark 1, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
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