Phenanthrene exposure produces cardiac defects during embryo development of zebrafish (Danio rerio) through activation of MMP-9

Exposure to tris (1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate affects the embryonic cardiac development of Oryzias melastigma

Tris (1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TDCPP) is a growing concern and may be a potential risk to marine environmental health due to its widespread usage and distribution. However, the toxic effects of TDCPP on cardiac development in marine fish have not been reported. In this study, Oryzias melastigma embryos were exposed to TDCPP at doses of 0, 0.04, 0.4, 4 and 40 μg/L from early embryogenesis to 10 days postfertilization (dpf). Then, the heart rate and sinus venosus-bulbus arteriosus (SV-BA) distance of the exposed embryos were measured at 5, 6, 8 and 10 dpf. Furthermore, alterations in the mRNA levels of the genes encoding cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4), fibroblast growth factor 8 (FGF8), and GATA-binding protein 4 (GATA4) were evaluated at 5, 6, 8 and 10 dpf. We found that the heart rate significantly increased in all TDCPP exposure groups at 10 dpf. The SV-BA distance significantly decreased in all TDCPP exposure groups at all developmental stages (except for the 0.4 μg/L group at 5 dpf and the 4 μg/L group at 10 dpf). The mRNA expression of COX-2 was downregulated at 5 dpf, BMP4 was downregulated at 5 and 6 dpf, FGF8 was downregulated at 5, 6 and 8 dpf, GATA4 was downregulated at 8 dpf, and GATA4 was upregulated at 10 dpf. These results indicate that the changes in heart rate and SV-BA distance might be accompanied by disturbances in the four genes involved in cardiac development. Our findings will help to illustrate the possible cardiac toxic effects of marine fish exposed to TDCPP.

The role of matrix metalloproteinase 9 in fibrosis diseases and its molecular mechanisms

Fibrosis is a process of tissue repair that results in the slow creation of scar tissue to replace healthy tissue and can affect any tissue or organ. Its primary feature is the massive deposition of extracellular matrix (mainly collagen), eventually leading to tissue dysfunction and organ failure. The progression of fibrotic diseases has put a significant strain on global health and the economy, and as a result, there is an urgent need to find some new therapies. Previous studies have identified that inflammation, oxidative stress, some cytokines, and remodeling play a crucial role in fibrotic diseases and are essential avenues for treating fibrotic diseases. Among them, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are considered the main targets for the treatment of fibrotic diseases since they are the primary driver involved in ECM degradation, and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are natural endogenous inhibitors of MMPs. Through previous studies, we found that MMP-9 is an essential target for treating fibrotic diseases. However, it is worth noting that MMP-9 plays a bidirectional regulatory role in different fibrotic diseases or different stages of the same fibrotic disease. Previously identified MMP-9 inhibitors, such as pirfenidone and nintedanib, suffer from some rather pronounced side effects, and therefore, there is an urgent need to investigate new drugs. In this review, we explore the mechanism of action and signaling pathways of MMP-9 in different tissues and organs, hoping to provide some ideas for developing safer and more effective biologics.

To be or not to be plastics? Protein modulation and biochemical effects in zebrafish embryos exposed to three water-soluble polymers

Water-soluble polymers (WSPs) are a particular category of polymers that, due to their capability to be soluble in water, come out of the classic definition of plastic and therefore also from its regulation and control, representing a possible new environmental problem considering the number of consumer products in which they are contained. For this reason, the aim of this study was to evaluate the possible adverse effects of three of the most used WSPs (polyacrylic acid - PAA, polyethylene glycol - PEG, polyvinylpyrrolidone - PVP), administered at relevant environmental concentrations (0.001, 0.5 and 1 mg/L) to Danio rerio (zebrafish) embryos up to 120 h post fertilization. To assess the WSP toxicity at the molecular, cellular and organism level we used an integrated ecotoxicological approach of both biomarkers and high-throughput technology based on gel-free proteomics. The main results showed how all the three WSPs up-regulated many proteins (up to 74 in specimens exposed to 1 mg/L PVP) with a wide range of molecular functions and involved in numerous cellular pathways of exposed specimens. On the other hand, the measurement of biomarkers showed how PAA and PVP were able to activate the antioxidant machinery following an over-production of reactive oxygen species, while PEG produced no significant changes in the biomarkers measured. Based on the obtained results, the use and application of WSPs should be revised and regulated.

EZH2 controls epicardial cell migration during heart development

Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is an important transcriptional regulator in development that catalyzes H3K27me3. The role of EZH2 in epicardial development is still unknown. In this study, we show that EZH2 is expressed in epicardial cells during both human and mouse heart development. Ezh2 epicardial deletion resulted in impaired epicardial cell migration, myocardial hypoplasia, and defective coronary plexus development, leading to embryonic lethality. By using RNA sequencing, we identified that EZH2 controls the transcription of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 3 (TIMP3) in epicardial cells during heart development. Loss-of-function studies revealed that EZH2 promotes epicardial cell migration by suppressing TIMP3 expression. We also found that epicardial Ezh2 deficiency-induced TIMP3 up-regulation leads to extracellular matrix reconstruction in the embryonic myocardium by mass spectrometry. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that EZH2 is required for epicardial cell migration because it blocks Timp3 transcription, which is vital for heart development. Our study provides new insight into the function of EZH2 in cell migration and epicardial development.

Exposure of embryos to phenanthrene impacts the cardiac development in F1 zebrafish larvae and potential reasons

To explore the impact of embryonic exposure to phenanthrene (Phe), a typical tricyclic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, on cardiac development in next generation, fertilized zebrafish embryos were exposed to 0.05, 0.5, 5 and 50 nM Phe for 96 h, and then transferred to clear water and raised to adulthood. The cardiac development in F1 larvae generated by adult females or males mated with unexposed zebrafish was assessed. Malformation and dysfunction of the heart, such as increased heart rate, arrhythmia, enlarged heart and abnormal contraction, were shown in both paternal and maternal F1 larvae. A greater impact on the distance between the sinus venosus and bulbus arteriosus was exhibited in maternal F1 larvae, while paternal F1 larvae displayed a more severe impact on heart rate and arrhythmia. The transcription of genes related to cardiac development was disturbed in F1 larvae. DNA methylation levels in the promoter of some genes were associated with their transcription. The expression of acetylated histone H3K9Ac and H3K14Ac in maternal F1 larvae was no significantly changed, but was significantly downregulated in paternal F1 larvae, which might be associated with the downregulated transcription of tbx5. These results indicate that exposure to Phe during embryogenesis adversely affects cardiac development in F1 generation, and the effects and toxic mechanisms showed sex-linked hereditary differences, highlighting the risk of Phe exposure in early life to heart health in next generation.

Sex-specific thyroid disruption caused by phenanthrene in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio)

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are well-known contaminants with widespread distribution in environment and food. Phenanthrene is one of the most abundant PAHs in food and aquatic environment and generates reproductive and developmental toxicity in zebrafish. Nonetheless, whether phenanthrene caused sex-specific thyroid disruption in adult zebrafish is unclear. To determine this, adult zebrafish (male and female) were treated with phenanthrene (0, 0.85, 8.5, and 85 μg/L) for 60 days. After the treatment period, we assessed the concentrations of thyroid hormones (THs) and expression levels of genes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis. The results showed that phenanthrene exposure can lead to thyroid disruption in both male and female zebrafish. Exposure to phenanthrene dramatically reduced the levels of L-thyroxine (T4) and L-triiodothyronine (T3) in both male and female zebrafish, with a similar trend in both. However, the genes expression profiles of hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis were sex-specific. In all, the present study demonstrated that phenanthrene exposure could result in sex-specific thyroid disruption in adult zebrafish.

Evaluation of developmental toxicity in zebrafish embryos and antiproliferative potential against human tumor cell lines of new derivatives containing 4-nitrophenyl group

The aim of the studies was to evaluate the antiproliferative potential against human tumor cell lines of newly synthetized derivatives containing 4-nitrophenyl group, as well as its impact on developmental toxicity in zebrafish model. We selected 1-(4-nitrobenzoyl)-4-ethylsemicarbazide (APS-1) and 1-[(4-nitrophenyl)acetyl]-4-hexyl-thiosemicarbazide (APS-18) for research. The antiproliferative properties of semicarbazide derivatives were assessed against human cancer cell lines derived from hepatocellular adenocarcinoma (HepG2), renal cell carcinoma (769-P), non-small cell lung cancer (NCI-H1563) and glioblastoma multiforme (LN229) in comparison to the physiological human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) cell line. The influence of the tested substances on the cell cycle and apoptosis was also evaluated. Fish embryo acute toxicity test (FET) was performed based on OECD Guidelines (Test No. 236), and was carried out for the first 5 days post fertilization. The following concentrations of APS-1 and APS-18 were tested: 125-2000 μM and 0.125-1000 μM, respectively. The presented studies on the antiproliferative properties of the new semicarbazide derivatives showed that the compounds APS-1 and APS-18 reduce the viability of human tumor lines. Particularly noteworthy is the strong and selective antiproliferative activity of APS-18 against all neoplastic cell lines, in particular against glioblastoma. Against this tumor line, the compound APS-1 showed an effective inhibitory effect. In the FET we noted that the direct exposure of zebrafish embryos to APS-1 and APS-18 in used range of concentration did not cause morphological abnormalities, including cardiotoxicity. On basis of obtained outcomes it could be concluded that APS-1 and APS-18 may constitute models for further research, design and synthesis of new, safer drugs with more favorable anticancer properties.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon and its effects on human health: An overeview

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a class of chemicals of considerable environmental significance. PAHs are chemical contaminants of fused carbon and hydrogen aromatic rings, basically white, light-yellow, or solid compounds without color. Natural sources of pollution are marginal or less significant, such as volcanic eruptions, natural forest fires, and moorland fires that trigger lightning bursts. The significant determinants of PAH pollution are anthropogenic pollution sources, classified into four groups, i.e., industrial, mobile, domestic, and agricultural pollution sources. Humans can consume PAHs via different routes, such as inhalation, dermal touch, and ingestion. The Effect of PAHs on human health is primarily based on the duration and route of exposure, the volume or concentration of PAHs to which one is exposed, and the relative toxicity of PAHs. Many PAHs are widely referred to as carcinogens, mutagens, and teratogens and thus pose a significant danger to human health and the well-being of humans. Skin, lung, pancreas, esophagus, bladder, colon, and female breast are numerous organs prone to tumor development due to long-term PAH exposure. PAH exposure may increase the risk of lung cancer as well as cardiovascular disease (CVD), including atherosclerosis, thrombosis, hypertension, and myocardial infarction (MI). Preclinical studies have found a relationship between PAH exposure, oxidative stress, and atherosclerosis. In addition, investigations have discovered a relationship between PAH exposure at work and CVD illness and mortality development. This review aims to explain PAH briefly, its transportation, its effects on human health, and a relationship between environmental exposures to PAHs and CVD risk in humans.

The developing zebrafish kidney is impaired by Deepwater Horizon crude oil early-life stage exposure: A molecular to whole-organism perspective

Crude oil is known to induce developmental defects in teleost fish exposed during early life stages (ELSs). While most studies in recent years have focused on cardiac endpoints, evidence from whole-animal transcriptomic analyses and studies with individual polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) indicate that the developing kidney (i.e., pronephros) is also at risk. Considering the role of the pronephros in osmoregulation, and the common observance of edema in oil-exposed ELS fish, surprisingly little is known regarding the effects of oil exposure on pronephros development and function. Using zebrafish (Danio rerio) ELSs, we assessed the transcriptional and morphological responses to two dilutions of high-energy water accommodated fractions (HEWAF) of oil from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill using a combination of qPCR and whole-mount in situ hybridization (WM-ISH) of candidate genes involved in pronephros development and function, and immunohistochemistry (WM-IHC). To assess potential functional impacts on the pronephros, three 24 h osmotic challenges (2 hypo-osmotic, 1 near iso-osmotic) were implemented at two developmental time points (48 and 96 h post fertilization; hpf) following exposure to HEWAF. Changes in transcript expression level and location specific to different regions of the pronephros were observed by qPCR and WM-ISH. Further, pronephros morphology was altered in crude oil exposed larvae, characterized by failed glomerulus and neck segment formation, and straightening of the pronephric tubules. The osmotic challenges at 96 hpf greatly exacerbated edema in both HEWAF-exposed groups regardless of osmolarity. By contrast, larvae at 48 hpf exhibited no edema prior to the osmotic challenge, but previous HEWAF exposure elicited a concentration-response increase in edema at hypo-osmotic conditions that appeared to have been largely alleviated under near iso-osmotic conditions. In summary, ELS HEWAF exposure impaired proper pronephros development in zebrafish, which coupled with cardiotoxic effects, most likely reduced or inhibited pronephros fluid clearance capacity and increased edema formation.

Embryonic exposure to phenanthrene caused developmental defects of craniofacial cartilage in F1 larvae

As a representative polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon with low ring numbers, phenanthrene (Phe) is ubiquitously present in the environment. In this study, zebrafish embryos were exposed to Phe at 0.05, 0.5, 5 and 50 nmol/L for 96 h, and then cultured to adulthood in clean water, the developmental defects of craniofacial cartilage were observed in F1 larvae produced by adult males and females mated with untreated fish. Delayed development of craniofacial cartilage, including a shorter and wider Meckel's cartilage and mandibular arch were observed in F1 larvae from adult fish of both sexes. Maternal F1 larvae showed a greater impact on the lower jaw than paternal F1 larvae, this may be connected with greater downregulation of the transcription of genes related to the development of craniofacial cartilage such as runt-related transcription factor 2 (runx2), fibroblast growth factor 8 (fgf8), sonic hedgehog (shh), Indian hedgehog (ihh). Further results indicated that the modification DNA methylation levels in the promotors of gene runx2 and shh in maternal and paternal F1 larvae were inherited from embryonic F0 larvae, and might be linked with the toxicity of craniofacial cartilage in F1 larvae. This study illustrated that embryonic exposure to Phe could induce adverse effects on craniofacial development in F1 offspring, emphasizing the importance of transgenerational toxicology studies in risk assessment.

Thyroid disruption and growth inhibition of zebrafish embryos/larvae by phenanthrene treatment at environmentally relevant concentrations

Phenanthrene induces reproductive and developmental toxicity in fish, but whether it can disrupt the thyroid hormone balance and inhibit growth had not been determined to date. In this study, zebrafish embryos were exposed to phenanthrene (0, 0.1, 1, 10 and 100 μg/L) for 7 days. The results of this experiment demonstrated that phenanthrene induced thyroid disruption and growth inhibition in zebrafish larvae. Phenanthrene significantly decreased the concentration of l-thyroxine (T4) but increased that of 3,5,3'-l-triiodothyronine (T3). The expression of genes related to the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis was altered in zebrafish larvae exposed to phenanthrene. Moreover, phenanthrene exposure significantly increased the malformation rate and significantly reduced the survival rate and the body length of zebrafish larvae. Furthermore, phenanthrene significantly decreased the concentrations of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). Changes observed in gene expression patterns further support the hypothesis that these effects may be related to alterations along the GH/IGF-1 axis. In conclusion, our study indicated that exposure to phenanthrene at concentrations as low as 0.1 μg/L resulted in thyroid disruption and growth inhibition in zebrafish larvae. Therefore, the estimation of phenanthrene levels in the aquatic environment needs to be revisited.

Haemodynamic dependence of mechano-genetic evolution of the cardiovascular system in Japanese medaka

The progression of cardiac gene expression-wall shear stress (WSS) interplay is critical to identifying developmental defects during cardiovascular morphogenesis. However, mechano-genetics from the embryonic to larval stages are poorly understood in vertebrates. We quantified peak WSS in the heart and tail vessels of Japanese medaka from 3 days post fertilization (dpf) to 14 dpf using in vivo micro-particle image velocimetry flow measurements, and in parallel analysed the expression of five cardiac genes (fgf8, hoxb6b, bmp4, nkx2.5, smyd1). Here, we report that WSS in the atrioventricular canal (AVC), ventricular outflow tract (OFT), and the caudal vessels in medaka peak with inflection points at 6 dpf and 10-11 dpf instead of a monotonic trend. Retrograde flows are captured at the AVC and OFT of the medaka heart for the first time. In addition, all genes were upregulated at 3 dpf and 7 dpf, indicating a possible correlation between the two, with the cardiac gene upregulation preceding WSS increase in order to facilitate cardiac wall remodelling.

Comparative studies on regional variations in PM2.5 in the induction of myocardial hypertrophy in mice

Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) has been indicated to be related to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in sensitive people. However, the underlying mechanisms of PM_2.5-induced CVDs are poorly understood. In the present study, PM_2.5 samples were collected during winter from four cities (Taiyuan, Beijing, Hangzhou, and Guangzhou) in China. Ten-month-old C57BL/6 female mice were exposed to PM_2.5 suspension at a dosage of 3 mg·kg^-1 (b. w.) every other day for 4 weeks by oropharyngeal aspiration. PM_2.5 from Taiyuan increased the blood pressure and the thicknesses of the left ventricular anterior and posterior walls, decreased the ratio of nucleus to cytoplasm in cardiomyocytes and reduced the systolic function of the heart in mice. Further investigation revealed that PM_2.5 from Taiyuan induced lung inflammatory cytokines with up-regulated expressions of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). The mRNA expression levels of myocardial hypertrophy markers atrial natriuretic peptide and the β isoform of myosin heavy chain (ANP and β-MHC), matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2), MMP9, and inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 in the myocardium were significantly increased after exposure to PM_2.5 of Taiyuan. Furthermore, PM_2.5 from Taiyuan activated the IL-6/JAK2/STAT3/β-MHC signaling pathway in the myocardium. The correlation between the PM_2.5 components and myocardial hypertrophy markers suggested that Zinc (Zn) and acenaphthene (AC) are related to the changes in ANP and β-MHC at the transcriptional level, respectively. The above results indicated that PM_2.5 exposure induced myocardial hypertrophy in older mice, which might be related to the critical contributions of Zn and AC in PM_2.5. The present study provides new insights into the mechanism of myocardial hypertrophy after PM_2.5 exposure.

Phenanthrene alters the electrical activity of atrial and ventricular myocytes of a polar fish, the Navaga cod

Oil and gas exploration in the Arctic can result in the release of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) into relatively pristine environments. Following the recent spill of approximately 17 500 tonnes of diesel fuel in Norilsk, Russia, May 2020, our study focussed on the effects of phenanthrene, a low molecular weight PAH found in diesel and crude oil, on the isolated atrial and ventricular myocytes from the heart of the polar teleost, the Navaga cod (Eleginus nawaga). Acute exposure to phenanthrene in navaga cardiomyocytes caused significant action potential (AP) prolongation, confirming the proarrhythmic effects of this pollutant. We show AP prolongation was due to potent inhibition of the main repolarising current, I_Kr, with an IC₅₀ value of ~2 µM. We also show a potent inhibitory effect (~55%) of 1 µM phenanthrene on the transient I_Kr currents that protects the heart from early-after-depolarizations and arrhythmias. These data, along with more minor effects on inward sodium (I_Na) (~17% inhibition at 10 µM) and calcium (I_Ca) (~17% inhibition at 30 µM) currents, and no effects on inward rectifier (I_K1 and I_KAch) currents, demonstrate the cardiotoxic effects exerted by phenanthrene on the atrium and ventricle of navaga cod. Moreover, we report the first data that we are aware of on the impact of phenanthrene on atrial myocyte function in any fish species.

Prolonged phenanthrene exposure reduces cardiac function but fails to mount a significant oxidative stress response in the signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus)

Crustaceans are important ecosystem bio-indicators but their response to pollutants such as polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) remains understudied, particularly in freshwater habitats. Here we investigated the effect of phenanthrene (at 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 mg L^-1), a 3-ringed PAH associated with petroleum-based aquatic pollution on survival, in vivo and in situ cardiac performance, the oxidative stress response and the tissue burden in the signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus). Non-invasive sensors were used to monitor heart rate during exposure. Phenanthrene reduced maximum attainable heart rate in the latter half (days 8-15) of the exposure period but had no impact on routine heart rate. At the end of the 15-day exposure period, the electrical activity of the semi-isolated in situ crayfish heart was assessed and significant prolongation of the QT interval of the electrocardiogram was observed. Enzyme pathways associated with oxidative stress (superoxide dismutase and total oxyradical scavenging capacity) were also assessed after 15 days of phenanthrene exposure in gill, hepatopancreas and skeletal muscle; the results suggest limited induction of protective antioxidant pathways. Lastly, we report that 15 days exposure caused a dose-dependent increase in phenanthrene in hepatopancreas and heart tissues which was associated with reduced survivability. To our knowledge, this study is the first to provide such a thorough understanding of the impact of phenanthrene on a crustacean.

The immune response of a warm water fish orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides) infected with a typical cold water bacterial pathogen Aeromonas salmonicida is AhR dependent

The present study reported the first pathogenic Aeromonas salmonicida (SRW-OG1) isolated from the warm water fish orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides), and investigated the function of Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a ligand-dependent transcriptional factor which has been recently found to be closely associated with immune response in mammals and E. coioides. Our results showed that AhR was activated by an unknown ligand in the spleen, intestine and macrophages. Meanwhile, ahr1a and ahr1b were significantly increased in the spleen, intestine and macrophages, whereas ahr2 was only increased in the intestine, which indicated that the contribution of AhR2 to the immune response may be less than that of AhR1a and AhR1b. Some key genes involved in the macrophage inflammatory response, bacterial recognition, and intestinal immunity were significantly up-regulated in the SRW-OG1 infected E. coioides. Nevertheless, declining macrophage ROS production and down-regulation of related genes were also observed, suggesting that SRW-OG1 utilized its virulence mechanisms to prevent macrophage ROS production. Furthermore, AhR inhibitor 3', 4'-DMF and the silence of ahr1a or ahr1b significantly rescued the increased IL-1β and IL-8 induced by SRW-OG1 infection, which proved that the induction of IL-1β and IL-8 in E. coioides macrophages was mediated by AhR. However, BPI/LBP, ROS production and related genes were not affected by AhR. The survival rate and immune escape rate of SRW-OG1 in the ahr1a/ahr1b knocked-down and 3', 4'-DMF treated macrophages were significantly increased compared with those in wild type macrophages. Taken together, it was preliminarily confirmed that ahr1a and ahr1b played an important role in the immune response against A. salmonicida SRW-OG1.

Retene, pyrene and phenanthrene cause distinct molecular-level changes in the cardiac tissue of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) larvae, part 2 - Proteomics and metabolomics

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are global contaminants of concern. Despite several decades of research, their mechanisms of toxicity are not very well understood. Early life stages of fish are particularly sensitive with the developing cardiac tissue being a main target of PAHs toxicity. The mechanisms of cardiotoxicity of the three widespread model polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) retene, pyrene and phenanthrene were explored in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) early life stages. Newly hatched larvae were exposed to sublethal doses of each individual PAH causing no detectable morphometric alterations. Changes in the cardiac proteome and metabolome were assessed after 7 or 14 days of exposure to each PAH. Phase I and II enzymes regulated by the aryl hydrocarbon receptor were significantly induced by all PAHs, with retene being the most potent compound. Retene significantly altered the level of several proteins involved in key cardiac functions such as muscle contraction, cellular tight junctions or calcium homeostasis. Those findings were quite consistent with previous reports regarding the effects of retene on the cardiac transcriptome. Significant changes in proteins linked to iron and heme metabolism were observed following exposure to pyrene. While phenanthrene also altered the levels of several proteins in the cardiac tissue, no clear mechanisms or pathways could be highlighted. Due to high variability between samples, very few significant changes were detected in the cardiac metabolome overall. Slight but significant changes were still observed for pyrene and phenanthrene, suggesting possible effects on several energetic or signaling pathways. This study shows that early exposure to different PAHs can alter the expression of key proteins involved in the cardiac function, which could potentially affect negatively the fitness of the larvae and later of the juvenile fish.

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) as an excellent vertebrate model for the development, reproductive, cardiovascular, and neural and ocular development toxicity study of hazardous chemicals

In the past decades, the type of chemicals has gradually increased all over the world, and many of these chemicals may have a potentially toxic effect on human health. The zebrafish, as an excellent vertebrate model, is increasingly used for assessing chemical toxicity and safety. This review summarizes the efficacy of zebrafish as a model for the study of developmental toxicity, reproductive toxicity, cardiovascular toxicity, neurodevelopmental toxicity, and ocular developmental toxicity of hazardous chemicals, and the transgenic zebrafish as biosensors are used to detect the environmental pollutants.

Retene, pyrene and phenanthrene cause distinct molecular-level changes in the cardiac tissue of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) larvae, part 1 - Transcriptomics

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are contaminants of concern that impact every sphere of the environment. Despite several decades of research, their mechanisms of toxicity are still poorly understood. This study explores the mechanisms of cardiotoxicity of the three widespread model PAHs retene, pyrene and phenanthrene in the rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) early life stages. Newly hatched larvae were exposed to each individual compound at sublethal doses causing no significant increase in the prevalence of deformities. Changes in the cardiac transcriptome were assessed after 1, 3, 7 and 14 days of exposure using custom Salmo salar microarrays. The highest number of differentially expressed genes was observed after 1 or 3 days of exposure, and retene was the most potent compound in that regard. Over-representation analyses suggested that genes related to cardiac ion channels, calcium homeostasis and muscle contraction (actin binding, troponin and myosin complexes) were especially targeted by retene. Pyrene was also able to alter similar myosin-related genes, but at a different timing and in an opposite direction, suggesting compound-specific mechanisms of toxicity. Pyrene and to a lesser extent phenanthrene were altering key genes linked to the respiratory electron transport chain and to oxygen and iron metabolism. Overall, phenanthrene was not very potent in inducing changes in the cardiac transcriptome despite being apparently metabolized at a slower rate than retene and pyrene. The present study shows that exposure to different PAHs during the first few days of the swim-up stage can alter the expression of key genes involved into the cardiac development and function, which could potentially affect negatively the fitness of the larvae in the long term.

Using Zebrafish to Analyze the Genetic and Environmental Etiologies of Congenital Heart Defects

Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are among the most common human birth defects. However, the etiology of a large proportion of CHDs remains undefined. Studies identifying the molecular and cellular mechanisms that underlie cardiac development have been critical to elucidating the origin of CHDs. Building upon this knowledge to understand the pathogenesis of CHDs requires examining how genetic or environmental stress changes normal cardiac development. Due to strong molecular conservation to humans and unique technical advantages, studies using zebrafish have elucidated both fundamental principles of cardiac development and have been used to create cardiac disease models. In this chapter we examine the unique toolset available to zebrafish researchers and how those tools are used to interrogate the genetic and environmental contributions to CHDs.

Aryl hydrocarbon receptor is required for immune response in Epinephelus coioides and Danio rerio infected by Pseudomonas plecoglossicida

Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a ligand-dependent transcriptional factor that responds to environmental chemicals, has been recently found to be closely associated with immune response in mammals. Pseudomonas plecoglossicida (P. plecoglossicida) is a temperature-dependent bacterial pathogen of visceral white spot disease in fish. Using dual RNA-seq, we previously evaluated the expression levels of ahr1a, ahr1b, ahr2 and cyp1a in the spleen of Epinephelus coioides at different time points after infection with P. plecoglossicida. In the present study, the expression levels of ahr1a, ahr1b, ahr2 and cyp1a in different organs of E. coioides and Danio rerio showed similar trends after being infected by P. plecoglossicida. It also was noted that liver, intestine, spleen, and heart were the most obviously affected organs, and ahr2 particularly showed a dramatically increase in the spleen. Subsequently, macrophages of E. coioides were isolated, and then infected by P. plecoglossicida, followed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assay, which revealed that the expression level of ahr1a in macrophages was significantly down-regulated, while expression levels of ahr1b, ahr2 and cyp1a were noticeably up-regulated. Eventually, it was noted that ahr1b and ahr2 were knocked-down in macrophages, and intracellular survival rate and immune escape rate of P. plecoglossicida were markedly improved. Taken together, ahr1a, ahr1b, ahr2 and cyp1a participate in the immune response to P. plecoglossicida in different organs of fish, while ahr1b and ahr2 may play pivotal roles in the immune response of spleen and macrophages.

Understanding the cardiac toxicity of the anthropogenic pollutant phenanthrene on the freshwater indicator species, the brown trout (Salmo trutta): From whole heart to cardiomyocytes

Freshwater systems are faced with a myriad of stressors including geomorphological alterations, nutrient overloading and pollution. Previous studies in marine fish showed polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) to be cardiotoxic. However, the cardiotoxicity of anthropogenic pollutants in freshwater fishes is unclear and has not been examined across multiple levels of cardiac organization. Here we investigated the effect of phenanthrene (Phe), a pervasive anthropogenic pollutant on a sentinel freshwater species, the brown trout (Salmo trutta). We first examined the electrical activity of the whole heart and found prolongation (∼8.6%) of the QT interval (time between ventricular depolarization and repolarization) of the electrocardiogram (ECG) and prolongation (∼13.2%) of the monophasic action potential duration (MAPD) following ascending doses of Phe. At the tissue level, Phe significantly reduced trabecular force generation by ∼24% at concentration 15 μM and above, suggesting Phe reduces cellular calcium cycling. This finding was supported by florescent microscopy showing a reduction (∼39%) in the intracellular calcium transient amplitude following Phe exposure in isolated brown trout ventricular myocytes. Single-cell electrophysiology was used to reveal the mechanism underlying contractile and electrical dysfunction following Phe exposure. A Phe-dependent reduction (∼38%) in the L-type Ca²⁺ current accounts, at least in part, for the lowered Ca²⁺ transient and force production. Prolongation of the MAPD and QT interval was explained by a reduction (∼70%) in the repolarising delayed rectifier K⁺ current following Phe exposure. Taken together, our study shows a direct impact of Phe across multiple levels of cardiac organization in a key freshwater salmonid.

Exposure to water-accommodated fractions of two different crude oils alters morphology, cardiac function and swim bladder development in early-life stages of zebrafish

The present study investigated the developmental toxicity of water-accommodated fractions (WAFs) of Oman crude oil (OCO) and Merey crude oil (MCO) on zebrafish (Danio rerio) in early-life stages (ELS). Based on total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH), LC₅₀ values manifested that OCO WAF was 1.2-fold more lethal to zebrafish embryos than MCO WAF. As for hatching rate, EC₅₀ value for OCO WAF was 5.7-fold lower than that for MCO WAF. To evaluate the sublethal morphological effects, semi-quantitative extended general morphological score (GMS) and general teratogenic score (GTS) systems were adopted. The GMS and GTS scores indicated that the WAFs caused remarkable developmental delay and high frequencies of malformation in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, OCO and MCO WAFs exposure exhibited severe bradycardia (reduced heart rate) and overt reduction of stroke volume, with a concomitant decrease in the cardiac output. Meanwhile, the WAFs also induced dose-dependent down-regulated expressions of several key functional genes of excitation-contraction coupling in cardiomyocytes, including ryr2, atp2a2a, atp2a2b, ncx1h, and kcnh2. For key gene markers of swim bladder development, results showed that high dose of TPH induced significant down-regulation of hb9 and anxa5 with no obvious change of acta2, suggesting that the WAFs could affect the specification and development of epithelium and outer mesothelium of swim bladder in zebrafish ELS. A strong negative relationship between the failure of swim bladder inflation and cardiac dysfunction via cardiac output was found. All these findings provide novel insights into the complicated mechanisms of the developmental toxicity of crude oil on fish in ELS.

Histological, biochemical and transcriptomic analyses reveal liver damage in zebrafish (Danio rerio) exposed to phenanthrene

Phenanthrene (PHE) is a common polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) in aquatic environments, and this contaminant can cause adverse effects on teleostean performance. In this study, we exposed the model freshwater fish (zebrafish; Danio rerio) to 300 μg/L PHE for 15 days. Histological analysis demonstrated that liver morphology deteriorated in PHE-exposed zebrafish, and cellular damage in the liver increased. Biological analysis revealed that exposure to PHE elicited significant changes in glutathione S-transferases (GST) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities. 476 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in liver between control and PHE treated groups through the transcriptomic analysis. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis (GO) suggested that PHE exposure induced changes in the expression of genes associated with "lipid transporter activity", "catalytic activity", "metal ion binding", "lipid transport" and "transmembrane transport". Furthermore, the "vitamin digestion and absorption" and "fat digestion and absorption" pathways enriched in Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis (KEGG). Additionally, five candidate biomarkers associated with the PHE response in zebrafish were identified. In conclusion, our results elucidate the physiological and molecular responses to PHE exposure in the liver of zebrafish, and provide a framework for further studies of the mechanisms underlying the toxic effects of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) on aquatic organisms.

Tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl)phosphate (TDCIPP) disrupts zebrafish tail fin development

The flame retardant, tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TDCIPP), is one of the most developmentally toxic organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs). However, few mechanistic studies on phenotypic malformation caused by TDCIPP have been conducted. This study investigates the molecular mechanism underlying abnormal tail fin development consistently observed in zebrafish embryos exposed to TDCIPP. The results show that the defects in the tail fin (e.g., bent spine, defective caudal fin, and damaged tip) were associated with altered expression of transcription factors. The significant up-regulation of mmp9 and, among insulin-growth factor (IGF) families, igfbp-1a and igfbp1b was observed, whereas alterations in the expression of cdx4, igf1a, ifg1b, igf2b, and vegaa regulating tail development were dependent on time points. In accordance with changes in mRNA gene expression, TDCIPP impaired vessel formation and disorganized muscle in transgenic Tg(fli-GFP) zebrafish larvae. Furthermore, we found that the overexpression of mmp9 caused by TDCIPP was not linked to igfbp-1. Overall, these findings demonstrate that TDCIPP disrupts the progression of tail fin development, accompanied by defects in vessel and muscle formation in developing zebrafish embryos.

Parental exposure to Deepwater Horizon oil in different environmental scenarios alters development of sheepshead minnow (Cyprinodon variegatus) offspring

The explosion of the Deepwater Horizon (DWH) oil exploration platform on April 20, 2010 began a catastrophic leak of approximately 640 million liters crude oil into the northern Gulf of Mexico (GOM), affecting more than 2100 km of coastline, including wetlands and estuaries that provide habitat and nursery for many aquatic species. Estuaries of the GOM are dynamic environments, with constant fluctuations in salinity and dissolved oxygen, including large hypoxic zones during summer months. Spawning fish in northern GOM estuaries following the DWH incident were at significant risk of oil exposure, and adverse environmental conditions at the time of exposure, such as hypoxia and low salinity, could have exacerbated developmental effects in the offspring. The present study investigated the effects of F₀ parental oil exposure in different environmental scenarios on development of F₁ sheepshead minnow (SHM) offspring. Adult SHM were exposed to the high-energy water accommodated fraction (HEWAF) of crude oil in three environmental scenarios: normoxic (NORM), hypoxic (HYP), and hypoxic with low salinity (HYP-LS). Parental HEWAF exposure in the NORM scenario resulted in developmental effects in F₁ offspring, including altered heart rate, decreased length at hatch, and impaired prey capture. Co-exposure of F₀ SHM to HEWAF and adverse environmental conditions altered HEWAF effects on F₁ heart rate, hatch rate, prey capture, and survival. Time to hatch was not significantly impacted by parental HEWAF in any environmental scenario. The present study demonstrates that parental exposure to HEWAF results in developmental changes in F₁ embryos, and co-exposure to adverse environmental conditions altered the effects for several developmental endpoints. These data suggest that SHM exposed to oil in estuaries experiencing hypoxia or low salinity may produce offspring with worsened outcomes. These developmental effects, in addition to previously reported reproductive effects in adult fish, could lead to long-term population level impacts for SHM.

Potential role of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons as mediators of cardiovascular effects from combustion particles

Air pollution is the most important environmental risk factor for disease and premature death, and exposure to combustion particles from vehicles is a major contributor. Human epidemiological studies combined with experimental studies strongly suggest that exposure to combustion particles may enhance the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), including atherosclerosis, hypertension, thrombosis and myocardial infarction.In this review we hypothesize that adhered organic chemicals like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), contribute to development or exacerbation of CVD from combustion particles exposure. We summarize present knowledge from existing human epidemiological and clinical studies as well as experimental studies in animals and relevant in vitro studies. The available evidence suggests that organic compounds attached to these particles are significant triggers of CVD. Furthermore, their effects seem to be mediated at least in part by the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). The mechanisms include AhR-induced changes in gene expression as well as formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and/or reactive electrophilic metabolites. This is in accordance with a role of PAHs, as they seem to be the major chemical group on combustion particles, which bind AhR and/or is metabolically activated by CYP-enzymes. In some experimental models however, it seems as PAHs may induce an inflammatory atherosclerotic plaque phenotype irrespective of DNA- and/or AhR-ligand binding properties. Thus, various components and several signalling mechanisms/pathways are likely involved in CVD induced by combustion particles.We still need to expand our knowledge about the role of PAHs in CVD and in particular the relative importance of the different PAH species. This warrants further studies as enhanced knowledge on this issue may amend risk assessment of CVD caused by combustion particles and selection of efficient measures to reduce the health effects of particular matters (PM).

Disruption of Nuclear Receptor Signaling Alters Triphenyl Phosphate-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Zebrafish Embryos

Triphenyl phosphate (TPHP) is an unsubstituted aryl phosphate ester used as a flame retardant and plasticizer within the United States. Using zebrafish as a model, the objectives of this study were to rely on (1) mRNA-sequencing to uncover pathways disrupted following embryonic TPHP exposure and (2) high-content screening to identify nuclear receptor ligands that enhance or mitigate TPHP-induced cardiotoxicity. Based on mRNA-sequencing, TPHP exposure from 24 to 72-h postfertilization (hpf) resulted in a concentration-dependent increase in the number of transcripts significantly affected at 72 hpf, and pathway analysis revealed that 5 out of 9 nuclear receptor pathways were associated with the retinoid X receptor (RXR). Based on a screen of 74 unique nuclear receptor ligands as well as follow-up experiments, 2 compounds-ciglitazone (a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, or PPARγ, agonist) and fenretinide (a pan-retinoic acid receptor, or RAR, agonist)-reliably mitigated TPHP-induced cardiotoxicity in the absence of effects on TPHP uptake or metabolism. As these data suggested that TPHP may be activating RXR (a heterodimer for both RARs and PPARγ), we coexposed embryos to HX 531-a pan-RXR antagonist-from 24 to 72 hpf and, contrary to our hypothesis, found that coexposure to HX 531 significantly enhanced TPHP-induced cardiotoxicity. Using a luciferase reporter assay, we also found that TPHP did not activate nor inhibit chimeric human RXRα, RXRβ, or RXRγ, suggesting that TPHP does not directly bind nor interact with RXRs. Overall, our data suggest that TPHP may interfere with RXR-dependent pathways involved in cardiac development.

Heart developmental toxicity by carbon black waste generated from oil refinery on zebrafish embryos (Danio rerio): Combined toxicity on heart function by nickel and vanadium

This study assessed the developmental toxicities of water-soluble carbon black wastes (CBW) extract (1:5, w/v) in zebrafish embryos (Danio rerio). Acute embryonic toxicity was performed following OECD guideline 236. Analysis using ICP-OES revealed that nickel (Ni) and vanadium (V) were predominant in CBW. Embryos exposed to CBW exhibited developmental delay, along with pericardial and yolk sac edemas. Malformed heart chambers were found in the CBW-exposed embryos and heart rates were significantly reduced since 48 h post fertilization (hpf). After RT-qPCR analysis, two cardiac forming-related genes, amhc and nppa responsible for atrial cardiac myofibril assembly and cardiac muscle cell proliferation, were up-regulated after 96 hpf. The increased mortality and delayed yolk-sac development appeared related to CBW-induced decrease in pH to about 5.5. Individual treatments of Ni and V did not cause identical toxic effects as CBW showed. At 100 ppm, V had a pH of approximately 5.5, causing developmental delay and pericardial edema in zebrafish embryos. At the same pH, combined Ni and V induced morphological anomalies and reduced heart rates similar to CBW-exposed embryos. Conclusively, this study demonstrates that environmental runoff is a serious concern, and thus, CBW incineration bottom ash should be treated carefully before disposal in landfills.

Exposure to environmental level phenanthrene induces a NASH-like phenotype in new born rat

More and more evidence indicates that persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are a risk factor for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Phenanthrene (Phe) is a kind of POP which existed extensively in the environment, but whose toxicity on mammals has so far received less focus. Subcutaneously injection of Phe (0.5, 5, 50 μg/kg) for 21 days induced significant NAFLD/NASH symptoms in new born rats. Exposure to environmental levels of Phe decreased body weight and liver-somatic index; impaired histology of liver; influenced the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) signaling and lipid metabolism in liver; stimulated oxidative stress in the rats' liver; induced the variation of NFκB pathway and liver inflammatory response; and caused liver fibrosis via transforming growth factor β1 (tgfβ1). We speculated that the subcutaneously injected Phe was transferred to the liver through blood circulation, which may have induced the elevation of PPARγ directly or indirectly, leading to liver steatosis. Excess lipid, acting as the first hit, stimulated the second hit factors - oxidative stress, inflammatory response and lipid peroxidation, and finally resulted in steatohepatitis and liver fibrosis.

Toxic effects and foundation of proton radiation on the early-life stage of zebrafish development

Proton is a major particle of space radiation environment and a prospective radiotherapy beam. However, its risk needs to be fully evaluated for the understanding and to establish the better protective strategy for astronaut and patient. Zebrafish is an ideal model for the toxicity studies on medicines and environmental genetic toxicants. In the current study, embryos of zebrafish at 24 h post-fertilization (hpf) were exposed to proton beam. Some toxic parameters of embryo-larval development were investigated. Microarray combining with qRT-PCR were used to detect the gene expression situation. Generally, fractions of a variety of abnormal phenotypes of embryos and larvae increased in a dose-dependent manner after irradiation. The copy number of mitochondria, the basal respiration rate and the maximum respiration rate of embryos significantly decreased after irradiation. Microarray data demonstrated that MAPK signaling pathway, cell communication, glycolysis and TGF-β signaling pathway were significantly affected in the irradiated group. The expressions of matrix metallopeptidase 9 (mmp9) and TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 2b (timp2b) genes, and enzymatic activity of MMP9 were significantly upregulated in irradiated group. Overall, these results suggest that acute radiation of proton severely affects the development of organism and results in aberration occurrence in the early stage of zebrafish development, which may relates to mitochondrial and glycolytic dysfunction.

Systematic developmental neurotoxicity assessment of a representative PAH Superfund mixture using zebrafish

Superfund sites often consist of complex mixtures of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). It is widely recognized that PAHs pose risks to human and environmental health, but the risks posed by exposure to PAH mixtures are unclear. We constructed an environmentally relevant PAH mixture with the top 10 most prevalent PAHs (SM10) from a Superfund site derived from environmental passive sampling data. Using the zebrafish model, we measured body burden at 48 hours post fertilization (hpf) and evaluated the developmental and neurotoxicity of SM10 and the 10 individual constituents at 24 hours post fertilization (hpf) and 5 days post fertilization (dpf). Zebrafish embryos were exposed from 6 to 120 hpf to (1) the SM10 mixture, (2) a variety of individual PAHs: pyrene, fluoranthene, retene, benzo[a]anthracene, chrysene, naphthalene, acenaphthene, phenanthrene, fluorene, and 2-methylnaphthalene. We demonstrated that SM10 and only 3 of the individual PAHs were developmentally toxic. Subsequently, we constructed and exposed developing zebrafish to two sub-mixtures: SM3 (comprised of 3 of the developmentally toxicity PAHs) and SM7 (7 non-developmentally toxic PAHs). We found that the SM3 toxicity profile was similar to SM10, and SM7 unexpectedly elicited developmental toxicity unlike that seen with its individual components. The results demonstrated that the overall developmental toxicity in the mixtures could be explained using the general concentration addition model. To determine if exposures activated the AHR pathway, spatial expression of CYP1A was evaluated in the 10 individual PAHs and the 3 mixtures at 5 dpf. Results showed activation of AHR in the liver and vasculature for the mixtures and some individual PAHs. Embryos exposed to SM10 during development and raised in chemical-free water into adulthood exhibited decreased learning and responses to startle stimulus indicating that developmental SM10 exposures affect neurobehavior. Collectively, these results exemplify the utility of zebrafish to investigate the developmental and neurotoxicity of complex mixtures.

The cardiovascular toxicity of triadimefon in early life stage of zebrafish and potential implications to human health

The health risk of triadimefon (TF) to cardiovascular system of human is still unclear, especially to pesticide suicides population, occupational population (farmers, retailers and pharmaceutical workers), and special population (young children and infants, pregnant women, older people, and those with compromised immune systems) who are at a greater risk. Therefore, firstly we explored the toxic effects and possible mechanism of cardiovascular toxicity induced by TF using zebrafish model. Zebrafish at stage of 48 h post fertilization (hpf) exposed to TF for 24 h exhibited morphological malformations which were further confirmed by histopathologic examination, including pericardial edema, circulation abnormalities, serious venous thrombosis and increased distance between the sinus venosus (SV) and bulbus arteriosus (BA) regions of the heart. In addition to morphological changes, TF induced functional deficits in the heart of zebrafish, including bradycardia and a significant reduced cardiac output that became more serious at higher concentrations. To better understand the possible molecular mechanisms underlying cardiovascular toxicity in zebrafish, we investigated the transcriptional level of genes related to calcium signaling pathway and cardiac muscle contraction. Q-PCR (quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction) results demonstrated that the expression level of genes related to ATPase (atp2a1l, atp1b2b, atp1a3b), calcium channel (cacna1ab, cacna1da) and cardiac troponin C (tnnc1a) were significantly decreased after TF exposure. For the first time, the present study revealed that TF exposure had observable morphological and functional negative impacts on cardiovascular system of zebrafish. Mechanistically, this toxicity might result from the pressure of down-regulation of genes associated with calcium signaling pathway and cardiac muscle contraction following TF exposure. These findings generated here can provide information for better pesticide poisoning treatments, occupational disease prevention, and providing theoretical foundation for risk management measures.

Hypoxia exacerbates the cardiotoxic effect of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, phenanthrene in Danio rerio

The Deepwater Horizon oil spill of 2010 released a mixture of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) into the Gulf of Mexico presenting a complex exposure regime for native species. Concurrently, the Gulf has experienced an increase in hypoxic events due to agricultural runoff from the Mississippi River outflow. This combination presents a unique physiological challenge to native species and a challenge for researchers. The purpose of this study was to determine how the cardiotoxic PAH, phenanthrene interacts with hypoxia to affect the cardiovascular system of larval zebrafish (Danio rerio). We exposed zebrafish larvae to 0, 1, 100, and 1000 μg/L of phenanthrene in combination with normoxia and hypoxia. At late hatching, video of hearts and vessels were used to measure heart rate (ƒH), stroke volume (S_V), cardiac output (Q), red blood cell velocity, and caudal vessel diameter. We found that the highest concentration of phenanthrene caused a 58, 80, and 84% decrease in ƒH, Q, and arterial red blood cell velocity in normoxia and an 88, 98, and 99% decrease in hypoxia, respectively. Co-exposed larvae also experienced higher rates of edema and lordosis in addition to a 33% increase in mortality rate with co-exposure to hypoxia at the 1000 μg/L concentration of phenanthrene. At 12 dpf, baseline swimming behavior was similar between treatments indicating partial recovery from embryonic exposure. This study shows that phenanthrene decreases cardiac parameters, most significantly heart rate and that this effect is exacerbated by simultaneous exposure to hypoxia.

Miconazole protects blood vessels from MMP9-dependent rupture and hemorrhage

Hemorrhagic stroke accounts for 10-15% of all strokes and is strongly associated with mortality and morbidity worldwide, but its prevention and therapeutic interventions remain a major challenge. Here, we report the identification of miconazole as a hemorrhagic suppressor by a small-molecule screen in zebrafish. We found that a hypomorphic mutant fn40a, one of several known β-pix mutant alleles in zebrafish, had the major symptoms of brain hemorrhage, vessel rupture and inflammation as those in hemorrhagic stroke patients. A small-molecule screen with mutant embryos identified the anti-fungal drug miconazole as a potent hemorrhagic suppressor. Miconazole inhibited both brain hemorrhages in zebrafish and mesenteric hemorrhages in rats by decreasing matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9)-dependent vessel rupture. Mechanistically, miconazole downregulated the levels of pErk and Mmp9 to protect vascular integrity in fn40a mutants. Therefore, our findings demonstrate that miconazole protects blood vessels from hemorrhages by downregulating the pERK-MMP9 axis from zebrafish to mammals and shed light on the potential of phenotype-based screens in zebrafish for the discovery of new drug candidates and chemical probes for hemorrhagic stroke.

Summary: A phenotype-based chemical screen in zebrafish identifies miconazole as a novel hemorrhagic suppressor. Miconazole inhibits vessel rupture and hemorrhages by decreasing pErk and MMP9 in zebrafish and rats.

Zebrafish as a Vertebrate Model System to Evaluate Effects of Environmental Toxicants on Cardiac Development and Function

Environmental pollution is a serious problem of the modern world that possesses a major threat to public health. Exposure to environmental pollutants during embryonic development is particularly risky. Although many pollutants have been verified as potential toxicants, there are new chemicals in the environment that need assessment. Heart development is an extremely sensitive process, which can be affected by environmentally toxic molecule exposure during embryonic development. Congenital heart defects are the most common life-threatening global health problems, and the etiology is mostly unknown. The zebrafish has emerged as an invaluable model to examine substance toxicity on vertebrate development, particularly on cardiac development. The zebrafish offers numerous advantages for toxicology research not found in other model systems. Many laboratories have used the zebrafish to study the effects of widespread chemicals in the environment on heart development, including pesticides, nanoparticles, and various organic pollutants. Here, we review the uses of the zebrafish in examining effects of exposure to external molecules during embryonic development in causing cardiac defects, including chemicals ubiquitous in the environment and illicit drugs. Known or potential mechanisms of toxicity and how zebrafish research can be used to provide mechanistic understanding of cardiac defects are discussed.

Matrix metalloproteinase-9 plays a role in protecting zebrafish from lethal infection with Listeria monocytogenes by enhancing macrophage migration

Zebrafish could serve as an alternative animal model for pathogenic bacteria in multiple infectious routes. Our previous study showed that immersion infection in zebrafish with Listeria monocytogenes did not cause lethality but induced transient expression of several immune response genes. We used an Affymetrix gene chip to examine the expression profiles of genes of zebrafish immersion-infected with L. monocytogenes. A total of 239 genes were up-regulated and 56 genes down-regulated compared with uninfected fish. Highest expression (>20-fold) was seen with the mmp-9 gene encoding the matrix metalloproteinase-9 (Mmp-9) known to degrade the extracellular matrix proteins. By morpholino knockdown of mmp-9, we found that the morphants showed rapid death with much higher bacterial load after intravenous or intraventricular (brain ventricle) infection with L. monocytogenes. Macrophages in mmp-9-knockdown morphants had significant defect in migrating to the brain cavity upon intraventricular infection. Decreased migration of murine macrophages with knockdown of mmp-9 and cd44 was also seen in transwell inserts with 8-μm pore polycarbonate membrane, as compared with the scrambled RNA. These findings suggest that Mmp-9 is a protective molecule against infection by L. monocytogenes by engaging in migration of zebrafish macrophages to the site of infection via a non-proteolytic role. Further work is required on the molecular mechanisms governing Mmp-9-driven macrophage migration in zebrafish.

Reproductive and transgenerational toxicities of phenanthrene on female marine medaka (Oryzias melastigma)

Phenanthrene (PHE) is one of the most abundant polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the aquatic environment and often results from oil spills. To assess the effects of PHE on fish, marine medaka (Oryzias melastigma) was exposed to PHE at 0.06, 0.6, 6 and 60 μg/L. The reproductive functions and transgenerational effects were investigated. After 80 days exposure, the percentage of previtellogenic and vitellogenic oocytes in the ovary showed a significant decrease in the 0.06 and 60 μg/L groups. The mRNA levels of salmon-type gonadotropin releasing hormone, the follicle-stimulating hormone FSHβ, and the luteinizing hormone LHβ in the brain; the cytochrome P450 aromatase gene CYP19A and the estrogen receptor α (ERα) in the ovary; and ERα and vitellogenin VTG1 and 2 in the liver all exhibited significant down-regulation in the 0.06 and 60 μg/L groups, but did not significantly change in the 6 μg/L group compared to the control, which was quite consistent with development of the oocytes. A significant elevation of PHE accumulation in the brain in the 0.06 and 60 μg/L groups gave a reasonable explanation for the nonmonotonic dose-response and also elucidated the action pathway via the brain-pituitary-gonadal axis. The reduction of the time to hatch and the increased cardiac rhythm of embryos were in accord with the PHE accumulative levels in the eggs. The results demonstrated that exposure to PHE at both low and high concentrations can inhibit ovary development. In addition, PHE can be maternally transferred to embryos and influence the health and sustainability of the next generation.

Matrix metalloproteinases in fish biology and matrix turnover

Matrix metalloproteinases have important functions for tissue turnover in fish, with relevance both for the fish industry and molecular and cellular research on embryology, inflammation and tissue repair. These metalloproteinases have been studied in different fish types, subjected to both aquaculture and experimental conditions. This review highlights studies on these metalloproteinases in relation to both fish quality and health and further, the future importance of fish for basic research studies.

Aryl hydrocarbon receptor protein and Cyp1A1 gene induction by LPS and phenanthrene in Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) head kidney cells

The objective of this study was to evaluate interactions between environmental toxicants and cod immune cells during inflammation. Phenanthrene is abundant in plant oils (rapeseed, palm, and soya oil) as compared to fish oils, and consequently constitute an undesirable element in plant replacement diets in aquaculture. Phenanthrene was added to head kidney cell cultures, alone or together with LPS (lipopolysaccharide) or poly I: C (polyinosinic acid: polycytidylic acid), and the responses were evaluated in terms of protein and gene expression. The results showed that LPS, poly I: C or phenanthrene, added to the cultures separately, induced aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) protein expression. Phenanthrene treatment in combination with LPS induced AhR protein expression and Cyp1A1 gene transcription, which not was observed combining poly I: C and phenanthrene. Phenanthrene exposure up regulated the transcription of common stress and detoxification enzymes like catalase, caspase 3 and glutathione S-transferase alfa 3 subunit B (GSTAB3), while LPS exposure alone or combined with phenanthrene down regulated GSTAB3 and catalase in cod leukocytes. It seems clear that immune regulation and phenanthrene induced signaling pathways interact; transcriptional down regulation of detoxification and antioxidant enzymes by LPS could indicate that combating bacterial infections is the number one priority in these cells, and that AhR and Cyp1A1 is somehow involved in this signaling cascade. LPS seems to affect the mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs) pathways (P-p38 and ERK1/2) thus modulating the AhR protein and Cyp1A1 gene transcription, while phenanthrene possibly activates AhR by ligand binding.

Phenanthrene exposure causes cardiac arrhythmia in embryonic zebrafish via perturbing calcium handling

Phenanthrene (Phe) is one of the most abundant and ubiquitous polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the aquatic environment. It is known that Phe has cardiotoxic effects, but knowledge concerning the mechanism of cardiac dysfunction caused by Phe is still limited. In this study, zebrafish embryos were exposed to environmentally relevant concentrations of Phe, and an increase of an irregular rhythm was observed in Phe treated embryos. Disordered calcium (Ca(2+)) handling characterized by impaired sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) uptake, and obvious Ca(2+) accumulation in the cytoplasm was observed in rat embryonic cardiac myoblasts (H9C2) exposed to Phe. The mRNA level as well as protein expression of the SERCA2a Ca(2+) pump in zebrafish hearts or H9C2 cells was significantly decreased by Phe exposure. The activity of Ca(2+)-ATPase in H9C2 cells was inhibited by Phe. Both the mRNA and protein levels of TBX5, a direct regulator of SERCA2a, were significantly decreased by Phe exposure. These results suggested that exposure to Phe could lead to arrhythmia in zebrafish embryos via perturbing the calcium handling pathway.