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Cheng W, Chen H, Zhou Y, You Y, Lei D, Li Y, Feng Y, Wang Y. Aged fragmented-polypropylene microplastics induced ageing statues-dependent bioenergetic imbalance and reductive stress: In vivo and liver organoids-based in vitro study. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 191:108949. [PMID: 39213921 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Ageing is a nature process of microplastics that occurrs daily, and human beings are inevitably exposed to aged microplastics. However, a systematic understanding of ageing status and its toxic effect is currently still lacking. In this study, plastic cup lids-originated polypropylene (PP) microplastics were UV-photoaged until the carbonyl index (CI), a canonical indicator for plastic ageing, achieved 0.08, 0.17, 0.22 and 0.28. The adverse hepatic effect of these aged PPs (aPPs) was evaluated in Balb/c mice (75 ng/mL water, about 200 particles/day) and human-originated liver organoids (LOs, 50 particles/mL, ranged from 5.94 to 13.15 ng/mL) at low-dose equivalent to human exposure level. Low-dose of aged PP could induce hepatic reductive stress both in vitro and in vivo, by elevating the NADH/NAD+ratio in a CI-dependent manner, together with hepatoxicity (indicated by increased AST secretion and cytotoxicity), and disrupted the genes encoding the nutrients transporters and NADH subunits accompanied by the restricted ATP supply, declined mitochondrial membrane potential and mitochondrial complexI/IV activities, without significant increase in MDA levels in the liver. These changes in the liver disrupted systematic metabolism, representing a circulatory panel of increases in the lactate, triglyceride, Fgf21 levels, and decreases in the pyruvate level, linked the reductive stress to the declined body weight gain but elevated hepatic NADH contents following aPPs exposure. Additionally, assessing by the LOs, it was found that digestion drastically accelerated the ageing of aPPs and worsen the energy supply upon mitochondria, representing a "scattergun effect" induced by the formation of micro- and nano-plastics mixture toward NADH/NAD+imbalance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Cheng
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Hange Chen
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yue Zhou
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yifei You
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Dong Lei
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Key Lab of Tissue Engineering, Ninth People's Hospital of Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yan Li
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yan Feng
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yan Wang
- Ninth People's Hospital of Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Public Health, Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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Chen Y, Jin H, Ali W, Zhuang T, Sun J, Wang T, Song J, Ma Y, Yuan Y, Bian J, Liu Z, Zou H. Co-exposure of polyvinyl chloride microplastics with cadmium promotes nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in female ducks through oxidative stress and glycolipid accumulation. Poult Sci 2024; 103:104152. [PMID: 39182342 PMCID: PMC11387379 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.104152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 07/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024] Open
Abstract
A recently discovered environmental contaminant, microplastics (MP) are capable of amassing within the body and pose a grave threat to the health of both humans and animals. It is widely acknowledged that the combination of cadmium (Cd), a hazardous heavy metal, and microplastics produces synergistic deleterious effects. Nevertheless, the mechanism by which co-exposure to polyvinyl chloride microplastics (PVC-MP) and Cd damages the liver of avian females is unknown. Globally prevalent and the subject of extensive research in mammals, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver condition. However, the mechanisms underlying injury to the avian digestive system caused by NAFLD remain unknown. Two months of co-exposure to Cd and PVC-MPs, pure water, solitary Cd exposure, single microplastics exposure, and pure water were administered to female Muscovy ducks in this study. The objective of this research was to examine whether the co-exposure of duck liver to PVC-MPs and Cd-induced oxidative stress resulted in NAFLD and subsequent apoptosis of hepatic cells. The study's findings showed that hepatocyte shape and functional activity were negatively impacted by PVC-MP and Cd buildup in liver tissues. Reduced liver organ coefficients, increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) content, and ultrastructural damage to hepatocyte nuclei and mitochondria are indicators of this. These results point to a possible impairment in liver function. phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 1 (PCK1) deficiency activates the protein kinase B/phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K/AKT) pathway in the livers of female reproductive ducks that have been damaged by oxidative stress. This stimulation induces lipid deposition, fibrosis, and glycogen accumulation, which ultimately results in hepatocyte apoptosis. In summary, our research provides evidence that PVC-MPs cause oxidative harm to the liver, which subsequently results in fibrosis of liver tissue, hepatic glucolipid metabolism, and ultimately apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Hengqi Jin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Waseem Ali
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Tinglong Zhuang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Jian Sun
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Tao Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Jie Song
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Yonggang Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Yan Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Jianchun Bian
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Zongping Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China.
| | - Hui Zou
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China.
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Wang M, Wu Y, Li G, Xiong Y, Zhang Y, Zhang M. The hidden threat: Unraveling the impact of microplastics on reproductive health. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 935:173177. [PMID: 38750730 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics, with intricate physical and chemical characteristics, infiltrate the food chain and extensively impact ecosystems. Despite acknowledging the link between environmental pollution and declining fertility, the specific mechanisms affecting reproductive health remain to be elucidated. This review emphasizes the global correlation between microplastics and subfertility, focusing on entry pathways and impacts on ecosystems. Research suggests that microplastics disrupt the neuroendocrine system, influencing sex hormone synthesis through the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. In the reproductive system, microplastics interfere with the blood-testis barrier, impairing spermatogenesis in males, and causing placental dysfunction, ovarian atrophy, endometrial hyperplasia, and fibrosis in females. Moreover, microplastics potentially affect offspring's lipid metabolism and reproductive functions. However, complex microplastic compositions and detection method limitations impede research progress. Mitigation strategies for reproductive effects, combined with addressing microplastic pollution through sustainable practices, are imperative. This review underscores the urgency of global initiatives and collaborative research to safeguard reproductive health amid escalating microplastic contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Hubei Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health and Optimal Birth, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China
| | - Ying Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Hubei Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health and Optimal Birth, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China
| | - Guigui Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Hubei Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health and Optimal Birth, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yao Xiong
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Hubei Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health and Optimal Birth, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yuanzhen Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Hubei Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health and Optimal Birth, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Hubei Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health and Optimal Birth, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China.
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Peng Y, He Q. Reproductive toxicity and related mechanisms of micro(nano)plastics in terrestrial mammals: Review of current evidence. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 279:116505. [PMID: 38810287 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) have been detected in various ecological environments and are widely used due to their stable properties, raising widespread concern about their potential human reproductive toxicity. Currently, infertility affects approximately 10-30% of couples of reproductive age globally. MNPs, as environmental pollutants, have been shown to exhibit reproductive toxicity through intrinsic mechanisms or as carriers of other hazardous substances. Numerous studies have established that MNPs of varying sizes and types can penetrate biological barriers, and enter tissues and even organelles of organisms through four main routes: dietary ingestion, inhalation, dermal contact, and medical interventions. However, historical research on the toxic effects of MNPs on reproduction mainly focused on lower and aquatic species. We conducted an inclusive review of studies involving terrestrial mammals, revealing that MNPs can induce reproductive toxicity via various mechanisms such as oxidative stress, inflammation, fibrosis, apoptosis, autophagy, disruption of intestinal flora, endocrine disruption, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and DNA damage. In terrestrial mammals, reproductive toxicity predominantly manifests as disruption in the blood-testis barrier (BTB), impaired spermatogenesis, sperm malformation, sperm DNA damage, reduced sperm fertilizing capacity, compromised oocyte maturation, impaired follicular growth, granulosa cell apoptosis, diminished ovarian reserve function, uterine and ovarian fibrosis, and endocrine disruption, among other effects. Furthermore, MNPs can traverse the maternal-fetal interface, potentially impacting offspring reproductive health. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the potential reproductive toxicity and underlying mechanisms of MNPs with different sizes, polymer types, shapes, and carried toxins, as well as to explore effective protective interventions for mitigating reproductive damage, further in-depth animal studies, clinical trials, and large-scale epidemiological studies are urgently required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Peng
- Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha 410008, China.
| | - Qi He
- Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha 410008, China
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Del Piano F, Almroth BC, Lama A, Piccolo G, Addeo NF, Paciello O, Martino G, Esposito S, Mercogliano R, Pirozzi C, Meli R, Ferrante MC. Subchronic oral exposure to polystyrene microplastics affects hepatic lipid metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative balance in gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata). ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 279:116455. [PMID: 38772140 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pose a clear threat to aquatic organisms affecting their health. Their impact on liver homeostasis, as well as on the potential onset of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is still poorly investigated and remains almost unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of subchronic exposure to polystyrene MPs (PS-MPs; 1-20 μm; 0, 25, or 250 mg/kg b.w./day) on lipid metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative balance in the liver of gilthead seabreams (Sparus aurata Linnaeus, 1758) exposed for 21 days via contaminated food. PS-MPs induced an up-regulation of mRNA levels of crucial genes associated with lipid synthesis and storage (i.e., PPARy, Srebp1, Fasn) without modifications of genes involved in lipid catabolism (i.e., PPARα, HL, Pla2) or transport and metabolism (Fabp1) in the liver. The increase of CSF1R and pro-inflammatory cytokines gene expression (i.e., TNF-α and IL-1β) was also observed in exposed fish in a dose-dependent manner. These findings were confirmed by hepatic histological evaluations reporting evidence of lipid accumulation, inflammation, and necrosis. Moreover, PS-MPs caused the impairment of the hepatic antioxidant defense system through the alteration of its enzymatic (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione reductase) and non-enzymatic (glutathione) components, resulting in the increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), as biomarkers of oxidative damage. The alteration of detoxifying enzymes was inferred by the decreased Ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activity and the increased activity of glutathione-S-transferase (GST) at the highest PS-MP dose. The study suggests that PS-MPs affect the liver health of gilthead seabream. The liver dysfunction and damage caused by exposure to PS-MPs result from a detrimental interplay of inflammation, oxidative damage, and antioxidant and detoxifying enzymatic systems modifications, altering the gut-liver axis homeostasis. This scenario is suggestive of the involvement of MP-induced effects in the onset and progression of hepatic lipid dysfunction in gilthead seabream.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filomena Del Piano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80137, Italy; Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg 405 30, Sweden
| | - Bethanie Carney Almroth
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg 405 30, Sweden
| | - Adriano Lama
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy; Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Povo, Trento 38123, Italy
| | - Giovanni Piccolo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80137, Italy
| | - Nicola Francesco Addeo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80137, Italy
| | - Orlando Paciello
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80137, Italy
| | - Giovanni Martino
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80137, Italy
| | - Sergio Esposito
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80137, Italy
| | - Raffaelina Mercogliano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80137, Italy
| | - Claudio Pirozzi
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Rosaria Meli
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Maria Carmela Ferrante
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80137, Italy.
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Yan L, Yao X, Wang P, Zhao C, Zhang B, Qiu L. Effect of polypropylene microplastics on virus resistance in spotted sea bass (Lateolabrax maculatus). ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 342:123054. [PMID: 38043770 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution is a hot issue of global concern. Polypropylene microplastics (PP-MPs) age quickly in the marine environment and break down into smaller particles because of their relatively low temperature resistance, poor ultraviolet resistance, and poor antioxidant capacity, making them one of the major pollutants in the ocean. We assessed whether long-term exposure to micron-sized PP-MPs influences fish susceptibility to viral diseases. We found that exposure to PP-MPs (1-6 μm and 10-30 μm) at concentrations of 500 and 5000 μg/L resulted in uptake into spleen and kidney tissues of Lateolabrax maculatus. Increased activation of melanomacrophage centers was visible in histopathological sections of spleen from fish exposed to PP-MPs, and greater deterioration was observed in the spleen of fish infected by largemouth bass ulcerative syndrome virus after PP-MPs exposure. Additionally, exposure to PP-MPs led to significant cytotoxicity and a negative impact on the antiviral ability of cells. PP-MPs exposure had inhibitory or toxic effects on the immune system in spotted sea bass, which accelerated virus replication in vivo and decreased the expression of the innate immune- and acquired immune related genes in spleen and kidney tissues, thus increasing fish susceptibility to viral diseases. These results indicate that the long-term presence of micron-sized PP-MPs might impact fish resistance to disease, thereby posing a far-reaching problem for marine organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Yan
- Key Laboratory of South China Sea Fishery Resources Exploitation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China; Sanya Tropical Fisheries Research Institute, Sanya, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Yao
- Key Laboratory of South China Sea Fishery Resources Exploitation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pengfei Wang
- Key Laboratory of South China Sea Fishery Resources Exploitation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China; Sanya Tropical Fisheries Research Institute, Sanya, China
| | - Chao Zhao
- Key Laboratory of South China Sea Fishery Resources Exploitation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China; Sanya Tropical Fisheries Research Institute, Sanya, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Key Laboratory of South China Sea Fishery Resources Exploitation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China; Sanya Tropical Fisheries Research Institute, Sanya, China
| | - Lihua Qiu
- Key Laboratory of South China Sea Fishery Resources Exploitation and Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, China; Sanya Tropical Fisheries Research Institute, Sanya, China; Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genomics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Chinese Academy of Fishery Science, Beijing, China.
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Hong Y, Wu S, Wei G. Adverse effects of microplastics and nanoplastics on the reproductive system: A comprehensive review of fertility and potential harmful interactions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 903:166258. [PMID: 37579804 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) have caused ubiquitous environmental pollution and raised widespread concern about their potential toxicity to human health, especially in the reproductive system. Moreover, infertility affects >15 % of couples worldwide, and the birth rate is decreasing. Environmental factors are some of the most important causes of infertility. However, little is known about the effects of MPs and NPs on the testes and ovaries. These particles can enter the body primarily via ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact, target the reproductive system in a size-dependent manner and disturb germ cell and other somatic cell development. Our study systematically reviewed the adverse effects of plastic particles on reproductive function and offers valuable insights into the different stages of germ cells and the potential mechanisms. Moreover, the synergistic reproductive toxicity of these particles and carried contaminants was summarized. Given the limited research scale, a shift toward innovative technologies and the adoption of multiple omics are recommended for advancing related studies. Further study is needed to explore the reproductive toxicity of MPs and NPs based on their size, polymer type, shape, and carried toxins, establish effective protective measures, and develop precision medicine for targeted reproductive damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Hong
- Department of Urology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China
| | - Shengde Wu
- Department of Urology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China.
| | - Guanghui Wei
- Department of Urology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China
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Liu Z, You XY. Recent progress of microplastic toxicity on human exposure base on in vitro and in vivo studies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 903:166766. [PMID: 37666331 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are widely distributed in the environment, including the atmosphere, soil and water bodies. They have been found to have toxic effects on organisms. The impact on human health is also receiving considerable attention. Microplastics can be found in drinking water, food, air and plastic products, and they can enter human body through the pathways such as ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact. After exposure to microplastics, they can induce cellular toxicity and produce toxic effects on multiple organs and systems, including the digestive, respiratory, nervous, reproductive and cardiovascular systems. This paper presents a comprehensive review and analysis on the recent progress of human exposure studies, in vitro experiments, rodent experiments, and other model experiments in microplastic human toxicity research. It comprehensively analyzes the potential human toxic effects of microplastics, providing a theoretical basis for further research on microplastic human toxicity and its mechanisms. Furthermore, this paper highlights the knowledge gaps and provides the recommendations for future research on human toxicity of microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengguo Liu
- Tianjin Engineering Center of Urban River Eco-purification Technology, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Xue-Yi You
- Tianjin Engineering Center of Urban River Eco-purification Technology, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China.
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9
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Ge Y, Yang S, Zhang T, Wan X, Zhu Y, Yang F, Yin L, Pu Y, Liang G. The hepatotoxicity assessment of micro/nanoplastics: A preliminary study to apply the adverse outcome pathways. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 902:165659. [PMID: 37517720 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution has become a significant global problem over the years, leading to the continuous decomposition and accumulation of micro/nanoplastics (MNPLs) in the environment. As a result, human exposure to these MNPLs is inevitable. The liver, in particular, is highly susceptible to potential MNPL toxicity. In this study, we systematically reviewed the current literature on MNPLs-induced hepatotoxicity and collected data on toxic events occurring at different biological levels. Then, to better understand the cause-mechanism causality, we developed an Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) framework for MNPLs-induced hepatotoxicity. The AOP framework provided insights into the mechanism of MNPL-induced hepatotoxicity and highlighted potential health risks such as liver dysfunction and inflammation, metabolism disorders and liver fibrosis. Moreover, we discussed the potential application of emerging toxicological models in the hepatotoxicity study. Liver organoids and liver-on-chips, which can simulate the structure and function of the liver in vitro, offer a promising alternative platform for toxicity testing and risk assessment. We proposed combining the AOP framework with these emerging toxicological models to improve our understanding of the hepatotoxic effects of MNPLs. Overall, this study performed a preliminary exploration of novel toxicological methodologies to assess the hepatotoxicity of MNPLs, providing a deeper understanding of environmental toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiling Ge
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Sheng Yang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Tianyi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Xin Wan
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Yuxin Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Fei Yang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, The Key Laboratory of Typical Environmental Pollution and Health Hazards of Hunan Province, School of Basic Medicine, School of Public Health, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, PR China.
| | - Lihong Yin
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China.
| | - Yuepu Pu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China.
| | - Geyu Liang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China.
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10
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Djouina M, Waxin C, Dubuquoy L, Launay D, Vignal C, Body-Malapel M. Oral exposure to polyethylene microplastics induces inflammatory and metabolic changes and promotes fibrosis in mouse liver. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 264:115417. [PMID: 37651791 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence shows widespread contamination of water sources and food with microplastics. Although the liver is one of the main sites of bioaccumulation within the human body, it is still unclear whether microplastics produce damaging effects. In particular, the hepatic consequences of ingesting polyethylene (PE) microplastics in mammals are unknown. In this study, female mice were fed with food contaminated with 36 and 116 µm diameter PE microbeads at a dosage of 100 µg/g of food for 6 and 9 weeks. Mice were exposed to each type of microbead, or co-exposed to the 2 types of microbeads. Mouse liver showed altered levels of genes involved in uptake, synthesis, and β-oxidation of fatty acids. Ingestion of PE microbeads disturbed the detoxification response, promoted oxidative imbalance, increased inflammatory foci and cytokine expression, and enhanced proliferation in liver. Since relative expression of the hepatic stellate cell marker Pdgfa and collagen deposition were increased following PE exposure, we assessed the effect of PE ingestion in a mouse model of CCl4-induced fibrosis and showed that PE dietary exposure exacerbated liver fibrogenesis. These findings provide the first demonstration of the adverse hepatic effects of PE ingestion in mammals and highlight the need for further health risk assessment in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madjid Djouina
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1286- INFINITE - Institute for Translational Research in Inflammation, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Christophe Waxin
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1286- INFINITE - Institute for Translational Research in Inflammation, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Laurent Dubuquoy
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1286- INFINITE - Institute for Translational Research in Inflammation, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - David Launay
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1286- INFINITE - Institute for Translational Research in Inflammation, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Cécile Vignal
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1286- INFINITE - Institute for Translational Research in Inflammation, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Mathilde Body-Malapel
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1286- INFINITE - Institute for Translational Research in Inflammation, F-59000 Lille, France.
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11
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Geng Y, Liu Z, Hu R, Huang Y, Li F, Ma W, Wu X, Dong H, Song K, Xu X, Zhang Z, Song Y. Toxicity of microplastics and nanoplastics: invisible killers of female fertility and offspring health. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1254886. [PMID: 37700763 PMCID: PMC10493312 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1254886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are emergent pollutants, which have sparked widespread concern. They can infiltrate the body via ingestion, inhalation, and cutaneous contact. As such, there is a general worry that MPs/NPs may have an impact on human health in addition to the environmental issues they engender. The threat of MPs/NPs to the liver, gastrointestinal system, and inflammatory levels have been thoroughly documented in the previous research. With the detection of MPs/NPs in fetal compartment and the prevalence of infertility, an increasing number of studies have put an emphasis on their reproductive toxicity in female. Moreover, MPs/NPs have the potential to interact with other contaminants, thus enhancing or diminishing the combined toxicity. This review summarizes the deleterious effects of MPs/NPs and co-exposure with other pollutants on female throughout the reproduction period of various species, spanning from reproductive failure to cross-generational developmental disorders in progenies. Although these impacts may not be directly extrapolated to humans, they do provide a framework for evaluating the potential mechanisms underlying the reproductive toxicity of MPs/NPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuli Geng
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhuo Liu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Runan Hu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanjing Huang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fan Li
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenwen Ma
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao Wu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Haoxu Dong
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kunkun Song
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaohu Xu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhuo Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yufan Song
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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12
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Han Q, Gao X, Wang S, Wei Z, Wang Y, Xu K, Chen M. Co-exposure to polystyrene microplastics and di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate aggravates allergic asthma through the TRPA1-p38 MAPK pathway. Toxicol Lett 2023; 384:73-85. [PMID: 37500026 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2023.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Increasing attention has been paid to the potential impact of microplastics (MPs) pollution on human health. MPs and phthalates coexist in the environment, however, the effects of exposure to MPs alone or to a combination of di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and MPs on allergic asthma are unclear. This study investigates the effects of exposure to polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) or co-exposure with DEHP, on allergic asthma, and the underlying molecular mechanisms. We established an allergic asthma model using ovalbumin, and mice were exposed to PS-MPs (5 mg/kg bw/day) alone, or combined with DEHP (0.5, 5 mg/kg bw/day), for 28 days. The results showed that in the presence of ovalbumin (OVA) sensitization, exposure to PS-MPs alone slightly affected airway inflammation, and airway hyperresponsiveness, while co-exposure to PS-MPs and DEHP caused more significant damage. Co-exposure also induced more oxidative stress and Th2 immune responses, and activation of the TRPA1 and p38 MAPK pathways. The aggravation of asthmatic symptoms induced by co-exposure to PS-MPs and DEHP were inhibited by blocking TRPA1 ion channel or p38 MAPK pathway. The results demonstrated that co-exposure to PS-MPs and DEHP exacerbates allergic asthma, by exacerbating oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, and activating the TRPA1-p38 MAPK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Han
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Xiao Gao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Shuwei Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Zhaolan Wei
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Yunyi Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Ke Xu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China
| | - Mingqing Chen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, Hubei, China.
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13
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Mills CL, Savanagouder J, de Almeida Monteiro Melo Ferraz M, Noonan MJ. The need for environmentally realistic studies on the health effects of terrestrial microplastics. MICROPLASTICS AND NANOPLASTICS 2023; 3:11. [PMID: 37228296 PMCID: PMC10202987 DOI: 10.1186/s43591-023-00059-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is now so widespread that microplastics are regularly detected in biological samples surveyed for their presence. Despite their pervasiveness, very little is known about the effects of microplastics on the health of terrestrial vertebrates. While emerging studies are showing that microplastics represent a potentially serious threat to animal health, data have been limited to in vivo studies on laboratory rodents that were force fed plastics. The extent to which these studies are representative of the conditions that animals and humans might actually experience in the real world is largely unknown. Here, we review 114 papers from the peer-reviewed literature in order to understand how the concentrations and types of microplastics being administered to rodents in lab studies compare to those found in terrestrial soils. From 73 in vivo lab studies, and 41 soil studies, we found that lab studies have heretofore fed rodents microplastics at concentrations that were hundreds of thousands of times greater than they would be exposed to in nature. Furthermore, health effects have been studied for only 20% of the microplastic polymers that are known to occur in soils. Plastic pollution is arguably one of the most pressing ecological and public health issues of our time, yet existing lab-based research on the health effects of terrestrial microplastics does not reflect the conditions that free-ranging vertebrates are actually experiencing. Going forward, performing more true-to-life research will be of the utmost importance to fully understand the impacts of microplastics and maintain the public's faith in the scientific process. Graphical Abstract Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s43591-023-00059-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. Lauren Mills
- Department of Biology, The Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science, The University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, BC Canada
| | - Joy Savanagouder
- Department of Biology, The Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science, The University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, BC Canada
| | | | - Michael J. Noonan
- Department of Biology, The Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science, The University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, BC Canada
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14
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Dolce A, Della Torre S. Sex, Nutrition, and NAFLD: Relevance of Environmental Pollution. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15102335. [PMID: 37242221 DOI: 10.3390/nu15102335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common form of chronic liver disease and represents an increasing public health issue given the limited treatment options and its association with several other metabolic and inflammatory disorders. The epidemic, still growing prevalence of NAFLD worldwide cannot be merely explained by changes in diet and lifestyle that occurred in the last few decades, nor from their association with genetic and epigenetic risk factors. It is conceivable that environmental pollutants, which act as endocrine and metabolic disruptors, may contribute to the spreading of this pathology due to their ability to enter the food chain and be ingested through contaminated food and water. Given the strict interplay between nutrients and the regulation of hepatic metabolism and reproductive functions in females, pollutant-induced metabolic dysfunctions may be of particular relevance for the female liver, dampening sex differences in NAFLD prevalence. Dietary intake of environmental pollutants can be particularly detrimental during gestation, when endocrine-disrupting chemicals may interfere with the programming of liver metabolism, accounting for the developmental origin of NAFLD in offspring. This review summarizes cause-effect evidence between environmental pollutants and increased incidence of NAFLD and emphasizes the need for further studies in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Dolce
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Della Torre
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
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