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Li Y, Chen L, Zhou N, Chen Y, Ling Z, Xiang P. Microplastics in the human body: A comprehensive review of exposure, distribution, migration mechanisms, and toxicity. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:174215. [PMID: 38914339 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174215] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are pervasive across ecosystems, presenting substantial risks to human health. Developing a comprehensive review of MPs is crucial due to the growing evidence of their widespread presence and potential harmful effects. Despite the growth in research, considerable uncertainties persist regarding their transport dynamics, prevalence, toxicological impacts, and the potential long-term health effects they may cause. This review thoroughly evaluates recent advancements in research on MPs and their implications for human health, including estimations of human exposure through ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact. It also quantifies the distribution and accumulation of MPs in various organs and tissues. The review discusses the mechanisms enabling MPs to cross biological barriers and the role of particle size in their translocation. To ensure methodological rigor, this review adheres to the PRISMA guidelines, explicitly detailing the literature search strategy, inclusion criteria, and the quality assessment of selected studies. The review concludes that MPs pose significant toxicological risks, identifies critical gaps in current knowledge, and recommends future research directions to elucidate the prolonged effects of MPs on human health. This work aims to offer a scientific framework for mitigating MP-related hazards and establishes a foundation for ongoing investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Li
- Institute of College of Art and Design, Rural Vitalization Research Center in the Wuling Mountain Area, Huaihua University, Huaihua 418000, China.
| | - Liping Chen
- Institute of College of Art and Design, Rural Vitalization Research Center in the Wuling Mountain Area, Huaihua University, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Nonglin Zhou
- College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Huaihua University, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Yuyuan Chen
- Institute of College of Art and Design, Rural Vitalization Research Center in the Wuling Mountain Area, Huaihua University, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Zhichen Ling
- Institute of College of Art and Design, Rural Vitalization Research Center in the Wuling Mountain Area, Huaihua University, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Ping Xiang
- Institute of Environmental Remediation and Human Health, School of Ecology and Environment, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming 650224, 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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Su QL, Wu J, Tan SW, Guo XY, Zou DZ, Kang K. The impact of microplastics polystyrene on the microscopic structure of mouse intestine, tight junction genes and gut microbiota. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304686. [PMID: 38837998 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Microplastics, which are tiny plastic particles less than 5 mm in diameter, are widely present in the environment, have become a serious threat to aquatic life and human health, potentially causing ecosystem disorders and health problems. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of microplastics, specifically microplastics-polystyrene (MPs-PS), on the structural integrity, gene expression related to tight junctions, and gut microbiota in mice. A total of 24 Kunming mice aged 30 days were randomly assigned into four groups: control male (CM), control female (CF), PS-exposed male (PSM), and PS-exposed female (PSF)(n = 6). There were significant differences in villus height, width, intestinal surface area, and villus height to crypt depth ratio (V/C) between the PS group and the control group(C) (p <0.05). Gene expression analysis demonstrated the downregulation of Claudin-1, Claudin-2, Claudin-15, and Occludin, in both duodenum and jejunum of the PS group (p < 0.05). Analysis of microbial species using 16S rRNA sequencing indicated decreased diversity in the PSF group, as well as reduced diversity in the PSM group at various taxonomic levels. Beta diversity analysis showed a significant difference in gut microbiota distribution between the PS-exposed and C groups (R2 = 0.113, p<0.01), with this difference being more pronounced among females exposed to MPs-PS. KEGG analysis revealed enrichment of differential microbiota mainly involved in seven signaling pathways, such as nucleotide metabolism(p<0.05). The relative abundance ratio of transcriptional pathways was significantly increased for the PSF group (p<0.01), while excretory system pathways were for PSM group(p<0.05). Overall findings suggest that MPs-PS exhibit a notable sex-dependent impact on mouse gut microbiota, with a stronger effect observed among females; reduced expression of tight junction genes may be associated with dysbiosis, particularly elevated levels of Prevotellaceae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi-Ling Su
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Jiang Wu
- Department of Animal Science, College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Shao-Wen Tan
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Xiao-Yun Guo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Ding-Zhe Zou
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Kai Kang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
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Zhang X, Zheng W, Shao W, Yu W, Yang Y, Qin F, Zhou W, Gong C, Hu X. Environmental concentrations of microplastic-induced gut microbiota and metabolite disruption in silkworm, Bombyx mori. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 358:142126. [PMID: 38677612 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142126] [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: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) existing extensively in various ecosystems can be ingested by marine organisms and enter the food chain, resulting the health risks from the presence of MPs in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. In the present study, an ideal model for Lepidoptera, the silkworm, Bombyx mori, was exposed to environmental concentrations (0.125 μg, 0.25 μg or 0.5 μg/diet) of MPs for 5 days, and the global changes in gut microbes and metabolites were subsequently examined via 16S rDNA sequencing and GC‒MS-based metabolomics. The results showed that MPs exposure did not seriously threaten survival but may regulate signaling pathways involved in development and cocoon production. MPs exposure induced gut microbiota perturbation according to the indices of α-diversity and β-diversity, and the functional prediction of the altered microbiome and associated metabolites demonstrated the potential roles of the altered microbiome following MPs exposure in the metabolic and physiological states of silkworm. The metabolites markedly altered following MPs exposure may play vital biological roles in energy metabolism, lipid metabolism, xenobiotic detoxification and the immune system by directly or indirectly affecting the physiological state of silkworms. These findings contribute to assessing the health risks of MPs exposure in model insects and provide novel insight into the toxicity mechanism of MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Life Science, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China
| | - Wenwen Zheng
- School of Chemistry and Life Science, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China
| | - Wenjing Shao
- School of Chemistry and Life Science, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China
| | - Wenbin Yu
- School of Chemistry and Life Science, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China
| | - Yu Yang
- School of Chemistry and Life Science, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China
| | - Fenju Qin
- School of Chemistry and Life Science, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China
| | - Wenlin Zhou
- Institute of Sericulture and Tea, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, 310021, China
| | - Chengliang Gong
- School of Biology & Basic Medical Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Xiaolong Hu
- School of Biology & Basic Medical Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
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Garcia MM, Romero AS, Merkley SD, Meyer-Hagen JL, Forbes C, Hayek EE, Sciezka DP, Templeton R, Gonzalez-Estrella J, Jin Y, Gu H, Benavidez A, Hunter RP, Lucas S, Herbert G, Kim KJ, Cui JY, Gullapalli RR, In JG, Campen MJ, Castillo EF. In Vivo Tissue Distribution of Polystyrene or Mixed Polymer Microspheres and Metabolomic Analysis after Oral Exposure in Mice. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2024; 132:47005. [PMID: 38598326 PMCID: PMC11005960 DOI: 10.1289/ehp13435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global plastic use has consistently increased over the past century with several different types of plastics now being produced. Much of these plastics end up in oceans or landfills leading to a substantial accumulation of plastics in the environment. Plastic debris slowly degrades into microplastics (MPs) that can ultimately be inhaled or ingested by both animals and humans. A growing body of evidence indicates that MPs can cross the gut barrier and enter into the lymphatic and systemic circulation leading to accumulation in tissues such as the lungs, liver, kidney, and brain. The impacts of mixed MPs exposure on tissue function through metabolism remains largely unexplored. OBJECTIVES This study aims to investigate the impacts of polymer microspheres on tissue metabolism in mice by assessing the microspheres ability to translocate across the gut barrier and enter into systemic circulation. Specifically, we wanted to examine microsphere accumulation in different organ systems, identify concentration-dependent metabolic changes, and evaluate the effects of mixed microsphere exposures on health outcomes. METHODS To investigate the impact of ingested microspheres on target metabolic pathways, mice were exposed to either polystyrene (5 μ m ) microspheres or a mixture of polymer microspheres consisting of polystyrene (5 μ m ), polyethylene (1 - 4 μ m ), and the biodegradability and biocompatible plastic, poly-(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (5 μ m ). Exposures were performed twice a week for 4 weeks at a concentration of either 0, 2, or 4 mg / week via oral gastric gavage. Tissues were collected to examine microsphere ingress and changes in metabolites. RESULTS In mice that ingested microspheres, we detected polystyrene microspheres in distant tissues including the brain, liver, and kidney. Additionally, we report on the metabolic differences that occurred in the colon, liver, and brain, which showed differential responses that were dependent on concentration and type of microsphere exposure. DISCUSSION This study uses a mouse model to provide critical insight into the potential health implications of the pervasive issue of plastic pollution. These findings demonstrate that orally consumed polystyrene or mixed polymer microspheres can accumulate in tissues such as the brain, liver, and kidney. Furthermore, this study highlights concentration-dependent and polymer type-specific metabolic changes in the colon, liver, and brain after plastic microsphere exposure. These results underline the mobility within and between biological tissues of MPs after exposure and emphasize the importance of understanding their metabolic impact. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP13435.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus M. Garcia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Aaron S. Romero
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Seth D. Merkley
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Jewel L. Meyer-Hagen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Charles Forbes
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Eliane El Hayek
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - David P. Sciezka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Rachel Templeton
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
- University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jorge Gonzalez-Estrella
- School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Yan Jin
- Center for Translational Science, Florida International University, Port St. Lucie, Florida, USA
| | - Haiwei Gu
- Center for Translational Science, Florida International University, Port St. Lucie, Florida, USA
| | - Angelica Benavidez
- Center for Micro-Engineered Materials, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Russell P. Hunter
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Selita Lucas
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Guy Herbert
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Kyle Joohyung Kim
- Department of Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Julia Yue Cui
- Department of Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Rama R. Gullapalli
- Department of Pathology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Julie G. In
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Matthew J. Campen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| | - Eliseo F. Castillo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
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Fontes BLM, de Souza E Souza LC, da Silva de Oliveira APS, da Fonseca RN, Neto MPC, Pinheiro CR. The possible impacts of nano and microplastics on human health: lessons from experimental models across multiple organs. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2024:1-35. [PMID: 38517360 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2024.2330962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
The widespread production and use of plastics have resulted in accumulation of plastic debris in the environment, gradually breaking down into smaller particles over time. Nano-plastics (NPs) and microplastics (MPs), defined as particles smaller than 100 nanometers and 5 millimeters, respectively, raise concerns due to their ability to enter the human body through various pathways including ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact. Various investigators demonstrated that these particles may produce physical and chemical damage to human cells, tissues, and organs, disrupting cellular processes, triggering inflammation and oxidative stress, and impacting hormone and neurotransmitter balance. In addition, micro- and nano-plastics (MNPLs) may carry toxic chemicals and pathogens, exacerbating adverse effects on human health. The magnitude and nature of these effects are not yet fully understood, requiring further research for a comprehensive risk assessment. Nevertheless, evidence available suggests that accumulation of these particles in the environment and potential human uptake are causes for concern. Urgent measures to reduce plastic pollution and limit human exposure to MNPLs are necessary to safeguard human health and the environment. In this review, current knowledge regarding the influence of MNPLs on human health is summarized, including toxicity mechanisms, exposure pathways, and health outcomes across multiple organs. The critical need for additional research is also emphasized to comprehensively assess potential risks posed by degradation of MNPLs on human health and inform strategies for addressing this emerging environmental health challenge. Finally, new research directions are proposed including evaluation of gene regulation associated with MNPLs exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernardo Lannes Monteiro Fontes
- Laboratório Integrado de Ciências Morfofuncionais (LICM), Instituto de Sustentabilidade e Biodiversidade (NUPEM), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lorena Cristina de Souza E Souza
- Laboratório Integrado de Ciências Morfofuncionais (LICM), Instituto de Sustentabilidade e Biodiversidade (NUPEM), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula Santos da Silva de Oliveira
- Núcleo Multidisciplinar de Pesquisas em Biologia - NUMPEX-BIO, Campus Duque de Caxias Geraldo Cidade, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Duque de Caxias, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Nunes da Fonseca
- Laboratório Integrado de Ciências Morfofuncionais (LICM), Instituto de Sustentabilidade e Biodiversidade (NUPEM), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marinaldo Pacifico Cavalcanti Neto
- Laboratório Integrado de Ciências Morfofuncionais (LICM), Instituto de Sustentabilidade e Biodiversidade (NUPEM), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Cintia Rodrigues Pinheiro
- Laboratório Integrado de Ciências Morfofuncionais (LICM), Instituto de Sustentabilidade e Biodiversidade (NUPEM), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Zhang X, He X, Pan D, Shi L, Wu Y, Yang Y, Zhu Y, Wang Y, Wang H, Pu L, He S, Meng L, Li J. Effects of thermal exposure to disposable plastic tableware on human gut microbiota and metabolites: A quasi-experimental study. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 462:132800. [PMID: 37866144 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132800] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this quasi-experimental study was to determine the alterations in gut microbiota and metabolism in humans who consume hot food served in disposable plastic tableware (DPT). Participants in the exposure and control groups were provided three hot meals in DPT (n = 30) or non-DPT (n = 30), respectively. After a month of observation, individuals in the exposure group discontinued the three meals provided in DPT (n = 27) for 1 month as the post-exposure group. Fecal samples were collected and tested for microplastics (MPs) detection using LDIR and gut microbiota identification based on the 16 S rRNA. Urine samples were used for metabolite analysis using LC-MS/MS. Results showed that the level of MPs in feces was lower in the post-exposure group compared with the exposure group. Furthermore, the abundance of the phyla Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidota in the exposure and post-exposure groups were significantly different compared with the control group. Changes in microbiota abundance and metabolite levels were mainly associated with central nervous system effects, energy metabolism, and inflammation, suggesting that thermal exposure to DPT for 1 month has considerable health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Xiaoxue He
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Degong Pan
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Liping Shi
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Yueping Wu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Yue Yang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Yongbin Zhu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Yanrong Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Huihui Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Lining Pu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Shulan He
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China.
| | - Lingchen Meng
- Department of Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China.
| | - Jiangping Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Disease Control, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China.
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Zhong J, Zhou D, Hu P, Cheng Y, Huang Y. Identification of the chemical composition of distiller's grain polyphenols and their effects on the fecal microbial community structure. Food Chem X 2023; 20:101001. [PMID: 38144726 PMCID: PMC10740074 DOI: 10.1016/j.fochx.2023.101001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Distiller grains are the main by-products of Baijiu production and are usually discarded, ignoring their abundant functional phytochemicals. The free and bound polyphenols from distiller grains were extracted and their potential effect on modulating fecal microbiota was investigated using in vitro fecal fermentation. The results showed that 34 polyphenols were quantified from distiller grains. The antioxidant activity was positively correlated with quercetin, myricetin, epicatechin, and naringenin. The abundance of Bifidobacterium, Ruminobacterium, Lactobacillus, Akkermansia, and butyrate-producing bacteria was enhanced by distiller's grain polyphenols by approximately 10.66-, 6.39-, 7.83-, 2.59-, and 7.74-fold, respectively. Moreover, the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), especially acetic, butyric, and propionic acid, was promoted (increased 1.99-, 1.71-, and 1.34-fold, respectively). Correlated analysis revealed quercetin, daidzein, and kaempferol as the key polyphenols by analyzing the effects on gut microbiota and SCFAs. This study could provide a reference for converting distiller grains into high-nutrient functional food ingredients and feeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang Zhong
- College of Liquor and Food Engineering, Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering and Biological Pharmacy of Guizhou Province, Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550025, China
- Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering and Biological Pharmacy of Guizhou Province, China
| | - Die Zhou
- College of Liquor and Food Engineering, Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering and Biological Pharmacy of Guizhou Province, Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550025, China
- Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering and Biological Pharmacy of Guizhou Province, China
| | - Penggang Hu
- College of Liquor and Food Engineering, Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering and Biological Pharmacy of Guizhou Province, Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550025, China
| | - Yuxin Cheng
- College of Liquor and Food Engineering, Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering and Biological Pharmacy of Guizhou Province, Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550025, China
- Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering and Biological Pharmacy of Guizhou Province, China
| | - Yongguang Huang
- College of Liquor and Food Engineering, Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering and Biological Pharmacy of Guizhou Province, Guizhou University, Guiyang, Guizhou 550025, China
- Key Laboratory of Fermentation Engineering and Biological Pharmacy of Guizhou Province, China
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Zhao N, Kong Y, Yuan Q, Wei Z, Gu J, Ji C, Jin H, Zhao M. The toxic mechanism of 6:2 Cl-PFESA in adolescent male rats: Endocrine disorders and liver inflammation regulated by the gut microbiota-gut-testis/liver axis. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 459:132155. [PMID: 37517236 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132155] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
In previous studies, 6:2 chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonic acid (6:2 Cl-PFESA), a perfluorooctanesulfonate alternative, has been demonstrated to be toxic to mammals. However, the toxic mechanism of 6:2 Cl-PFESA in mammals is unknown. Herein, adolescent male rats were administered 50 μg/kg/Day 6:2 Cl-PFESA for 28 days (oral gavage) to estimate the toxicity of 6:2 Cl-PFESA and investigate its toxic mechanism. Significant changes in some hematological indicators (e.g., aspartate transaminase and neutrophils) and liver sections (inflammatory cell infiltration) indicated that 6:2 Cl-PFESA exposure caused rat hepatotoxicity. Six steroid hormones (e.g., testosterone, progesterone, and cortisol) in serum and thirteen genes in testicles (related to the pathway of steroid hormone biosynthesis) were significantly regulated in 6:2 Cl-PFESA-treated rats. This suggested that 6:2 Cl-PFESA induced rat endocrine disorders. Compared to the controls, the mean relative abundance of Ruminococcaceae, Pasteurellaceae, Micrococcaceae, and Desulfovibrionaceae was significantly regulated by 1.3-, 0.40-, 0.32-, and 3.2-fold in the 6:2 Cl-PFESA rats, respectively. The 6:2 Cl-PFESA treatment also significantly disturbed 47 gut metabolites (29 upregulated and 18 downregulated), mainly bile acids, short-chain fatty acids, and amino acids. In summary, 6:2 Cl-PFESA induced endocrine disorders and liver inflammation in rats by altering the gut microbiota-gut-testis/liver axis. This study first reveals the toxic mechanism of 6:2 Cl-PFESA in mammals through a multiomics approach and provides comprehensive insight into the toxic mechanism of 6:2 Cl-PFESA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, PR China
| | - Yuan Kong
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, PR China
| | - Qixian Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, PR China
| | - Zihao Wei
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, PR China
| | - Jinping Gu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, PR China
| | - Chenyang Ji
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, PR China.
| | - Hangbiao Jin
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, PR China.
| | - Meirong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, PR China
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Zhang Y, Hou B, Liu T, Wu Y, Wang Z. Probiotics improve polystyrene microplastics-induced male reproductive toxicity in mice by alleviating inflammatory response. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 263:115248. [PMID: 37441951 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
As a new type of environmental pollutant, microplastics have been garnered increasing attention, especially in regard to their effects on the reproductive system. However, researchers have yet to report whether prevention and treatment measures exist for reproductive injury caused by microplastics. The aim of this study was therefore to explore the mechanism of spermatogenic injury induced by polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) and the intervention effect of probiotics based on the gut microbiota-testis axis. Mice were orally exposed for 35 days to 5 µm of PS-MPs with a gavage dose was 0.1 mg/day, and the intervention group was given probiotics (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium longum, and Enterococcus) orally. Fecal samples were then subjected to 16 S rRNA sequencing analysis, and sperm motion was analyzed by a Hamilton-Thorne Sperm analyzer. The results showed that PS-MPs exposed mice had significant spermatogenic dysfunction and testicular inflammation. In addition, the intestinal microbial structure of exposed mice changed significantly; the abundance of Lactobacillus decreased, and the abundance of Prevotella increased. Furthermore, with fecal microbiota transplantation, the recipient mice showed a significant decrease in sperm quality. However, probiotics supplementation helped inhibit the activation of IL-17A signaling driven by gut microbes, thereby alleviating the inflammatory response and improving sperm quality decline caused by PS-MPs. These results may provide a scientific basis for further understanding of the mechanism of male reproductive damage caused by environmental pollutants such as microplastics and for novel reproductive damage intervention measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yecui Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Baolian Hou
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Yanling Wu
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Zhiping Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China.
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11
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Zhang M, Shi J, Zhou J, Song L, Ding J, Deng HP, Weng L, Zhu Y, Xu Z. N6-methyladenosine methylation mediates non-coding RNAs modification in microplastic-induced cardiac injury. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 262:115174. [PMID: 37354568 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Owing to their potential adverse health effects, global contamination by microplastics (MPs) has attracted increased scientific and societal concerns. However, in vivo studies on MP toxicity, along with its effects and underlying mechanisms, remain limited. We recently found that non-coding RNA (ncRNAs) contribute to MP-mediated vascular toxicity. Moreover, previous studies have identified N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications in ncRNAs as influencing factors in cardiovascular disease. However, whether and how m6A modifications in ncRNAs are affected by MP-induced cardiotoxicity remain unknown. Herein, we profiled differentially expressed ncRNAs and their related m6A modification profiles in MP-exposed myocardial tissue using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq). First, we observed that MPs accumulated in different organs and upregulated apoptosis in the heart, liver, spleen, and kidney cells. Furthermore, total m6A and METTL3 levels increased in the myocardium after exposure to MPs. RNA-seq results revealed that 392 lncRNAs and 302 circRNAs were differentially expressed in MP-treated mouse myocardium compared to the control group. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses showed that these altered lncRNAs and circRNAs were closely associated with endocytosis, cellular senescence, and cell cycle signaling pathways, which may cause cardiotoxicity. Furthermore, MeRIP-seq data showed different distributions and abundances of m6A modifications in lncRNAs and circRNAs. Additionally, we identified differentially m6A methylated lncRNAs and circRNAs through conjoint analysis of the two high-throughput sequencing datasets and found that both m6A modifications and the expression of circ-Arfgef2 and lncG3bp2 were upregulated after exposure to MPs. This suggests that MP-induced m6A modifications in ncRNAs are involved in cardiotoxicity. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of MP-induced cardiotoxicity and new molecular targets for treating cardiac injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhang
- Division of Cardiology, Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200336 Shanghai, China.
| | - Jun Shi
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Zhou
- Division of Cardiology, Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200336 Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Song
- Division of Cardiology, Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200336 Shanghai, China
| | - Jingjing Ding
- Department of General Practice, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Ping Deng
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Weng
- Department of Intervention, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yiqian Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zhongqing Xu
- Department of General Practice, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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12
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Garcia MM, Romero AS, Merkley SD, Meyer-Hagen JL, Forbes C, Hayek EE, Sciezka DP, Templeton R, Gonzalez-Estrella J, Jin Y, Gu H, Benavidez A, Hunter RP, Lucas S, Herbert G, Kim KJ, Cui JY, Gullapalli R, In JG, Campen MJ, Castillo EF. In Vivo Tissue Distribution of Microplastics and Systemic Metabolomic Alterations After Gastrointestinal Exposure. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.02.542598. [PMID: 37398080 PMCID: PMC10312509 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.02.542598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Global plastic use has consistently increased over the past century with several different types of plastics now being produced. Much of these plastics end up in oceans or landfills leading to a substantial accumulation of plastics in the environment. Plastic debris slowly degrades into microplastics (MPs) that can ultimately be inhaled or ingested by both animals and humans. A growing body of evidence indicates that MPs can cross the gut barrier and enter into the lymphatic and systemic circulation leading to accumulation in tissues such as the lungs, liver, kidney, and brain. The impacts of mixed MPs exposure on tissue function through metabolism remains largely unexplored. To investigate the impact of ingested MPs on target metabolomic pathways, mice were subjected to either polystyrene microspheres or a mixed plastics (5 µm) exposure consisting of polystyrene, polyethylene and the biodegradability and biocompatible plastic, poly-(lactic-co-glycolic acid). Exposures were performed twice a week for four weeks at a dose of either 0, 2, or 4 mg/week via oral gastric gavage. Our findings demonstrate that, in mice, ingested MPs can pass through the gut barrier, be translocated through the systemic circulation, and accumulate in distant tissues including the brain, liver, and kidney. Additionally, we report on the metabolomic changes that occur in the colon, liver and brain which show differential responses that are dependent on dose and type of MPs exposure. Lastly, our study provides proof of concept for identifying metabolomic alterations associated with MPs exposure and adds insight into the potential health risks that mixed MPs contamination may pose to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus M. Garcia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Aaron S. Romero
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Seth D. Merkley
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Jewel L. Meyer-Hagen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Charles Forbes
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Eliane El Hayek
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - David P. Sciezka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Rachel Templeton
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, NM, USA
- University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Yan Jin
- Center for Translational Science, Florida International University, Port St. Lucie, FL, USA
| | - Haiwei Gu
- Center for Translational Science, Florida International University, Port St. Lucie, FL, USA
| | - Angelica Benavidez
- Center for Micro-Engineered Materials, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Russell P. Hunter
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Selita Lucas
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Guy Herbert
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Kyle Joohyung Kim
- Department of Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle WA, USA
| | - Julia Yue Cui
- Department of Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle WA, USA
| | - Rama Gullapalli
- Department of Pathology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Julie G. In
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Matthew J. Campen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Eliseo F. Castillo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, USA
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