Persistent organic pollutants are related to the change in circulating lipid levels during a 5 year follow-up

Polychlorinated biphenyls and incident coronary heart disease-related outcomes in Great Lakes fish consumers

BACKGROUND

Exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) has been linked to risk factors for cardiovascular disease such as increased inflammation, accelerated atherosclerosis, diabetes, and sex hormone dysregulation. Furthermore, there is increasing evidence suggesting associations between internal dose of PCBs and cardiovascular outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study is to investigate longitudinal associations of PCBs with coronary heart disease (CHD)-related outcomes in a cohort of Great Lakes sport fish consumers.

METHODS

The Great Lakes Sport Fish Consumer cohort was established in the early 1990's. Eight hundred nineteen participants were followed from 1993 to 2017. Serum PCBs were measured in 1994/1995 (baseline), in 2001, and in 2004, while health history questionnaires were administered in 1996, 2003, 2010, and 2017. Cox models were used to prospectively investigate associations of total PCBs and PCB groupings, based on aryl hydrocarbon receptor activity, with incident self-reported physician diagnosis of coronary heart disease (CHD), myocardial infarction (MI), and angina pectoris.

RESULTS

A 2-fold increase in phenobarbital-type PCBs was associated with a 72% increase in likelihood of self-reported incident diagnosis of CHD (HR=1.72, 95% CI: 1.06-2.81; p=0.0294). Similar results were observed for total PCBs (HR=1.68, 95% CI: 1.05-2.69; p=0.0306) and mixed methacholine/phenobarbital type (mixed-type) PCBs (HR=1.60, 95% CI: 1.02-2.52; p=0.0427), but not methacholine-type PCBs. PCBs were not strongly associated with risk of MI or angina.

CONCLUSIONS

This study presents evidence that exposure to PCBs increases the risk of developing coronary heart disease. Given the large number of risk factors and causal pathways for CHD, future research is required to better understand biological mechanisms of action for PCBs on CHD.

Associations of polychlorinated biphenyls exposure, lifestyle, and genetic susceptibility with dyslipidemias: Evidence from a general Chinese population

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are endocrine-disrupting chemicals that have been associated with various adverse health conditions. Herein we explored the associations of PCBs with dyslipidemia and further assessed the modification effect of genetic susceptibility and lifestyle factors. Six serum PCBs (PCB-28, 101, 118, 138, 153, 180) were determined in 3845 participants from the Wuhan-Zhuhai cohort. Dyslipidemia, including hyper-total cholesterol (HyperTC), hyper-triglyceride (HyperTG), hyper-low density lipoprotein cholesterol (HyperLDL-C), and hypo-high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HypoHDL-C) were determined, and lipid-specific polygenic risk scores (PRS) and healthy lifestyle score were constructed. We found that all six PCB congeners were positively associated with the prevalence of dyslipidemias, and ΣPCB level was associated with HyperTC, HyperTG, and HyperLDL-C in dose-response manners. Compared with the lowest tertiles of ΣPCB, the odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) in the highest tertiles were 1.490 (1.258, 1.765) for HyperTC, 1.957 (1.623, 2.365) for HyperTG, and 1.569 (1.316, 1.873) for HyperLDL-C, respectively. Compared with those with low ΣPCB, healthy lifestyle, and low genetic risk, participants with high ΣPCB, unfavorable lifestyle, and high genetic risk had the highest odds of HyperTC, HyperTG, and HyperLDL-C. Our study provided evidence that high PCB exposure exacerbated the association of genetic risk and unhealthy lifestyle with dyslipidemia.

A Review on Nanomaterial as Photocatalysts for Degradation of Organic Pollutants

Eliminating hazardous organic contaminants from water is a major concern today. Nanomaterials with their textural features, large surface area, electrical conductivity, and magnetic properties make them efficient for the removal and photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants. The reaction mechanisms of the photocatalytic oxidation of common organic pollutants were critically examined. A detailed review of articles published on photocatalytic degradation of hydrocarbons, pesticides, and dyes was presented therein. This review seeks to bridge information gaps on the reported nanomaterial as photocatalysts for the degradation of organic pollutants under sub-headings, nanomaterials, organic pollutants, degradation of organic pollutants, and mechanisms of photocatalytic activities.

OMICs Signatures Linking Persistent Organic Pollutants to Cardiovascular Disease in the Swedish Mammography Cohort

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) development may be linked to persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including organochlorine compounds (OCs) and perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). To explore underlying mechanisms, we investigated metabolites, proteins, and genes linking POPs with CVD risk. We used data from a nested case-control study on myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke from the Swedish Mammography Cohort - Clinical (n = 657 subjects). OCs, PFAS, and multiomics (9511 liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) metabolite features; 248 proteins; 8110 gene variants) were measured in baseline plasma. POP-related omics features were selected using random forest followed by Spearman correlation adjusted for confounders. From these, CVD-related omics features were selected using conditional logistic regression. Finally, 29 (for OCs) and 12 (for PFAS) unique features associated with POPs and CVD. One omics subpattern, driven by lipids and inflammatory proteins, associated with MI (OR = 2.03; 95% CI = 1.47; 2.79), OCs, age, and BMI, and correlated negatively with PFAS. Another subpattern, driven by carnitines, associated with stroke (OR = 1.55; 95% CI = 1.16; 2.09), OCs, and age, but not with PFAS. This may imply that OCs and PFAS associate with different omics patterns with opposite effects on CVD risk, but more research is needed to disentangle potential modifications by other factors.

Association of hair polychlorinated biphenyls and multiclass pesticides with obesity, diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidemia in NESCAV study

Obesity, diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidemia are well-established risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), and have been associated with exposure to persistent organic pollutants. However, studies have been lacking as regards effects of non-persistent pesticides on CVD risk factors. Here, we investigated whether background chronic exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and multiclass pesticides were associated with the prevalence of these CVD risk factors in 502 Belgian and 487 Luxembourgish adults aged 18-69 years from the Nutrition, environment and cardiovascular health (NESCAV) study 2007-2013. We used hair analysis to evaluate the chronic internal exposure to three PCBs, seven organochlorine pesticides (OCs) and 18 non-persistent pesticides. We found positive associations of obesity with hexachlorobenzene (HCB), β-hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH) and chlorpyrifos, diabetes with pentachlorophenol (PCP), fipronil and fipronil sulfone, hypertension with PCB180 and chlorpyrifos, and dyslipidemia with diflufenican and oxadiazon, among others. However, we also found some inverse associations, such as obesity with PCP, diabetes with γ-HCH, hypertension with diflufenican, and dyslipidemia with chlorpyrifos. These results add to the existing evidence that OC exposure may contribute to the development of CVDs. Additionally, the present study revealed associations between CVD risk factors and chronic environmental exposure to currently used pesticides such as organophosphorus and pyrethroid pesticides.

Update of the risk assessment of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in food

The European Commission asked EFSA to update its 2011 risk assessment on polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in food, focusing on 10 congeners: BDE-28, -47, -49, -99, -100, -138, -153, -154, -183 and ‑209. The CONTAM Panel concluded that the neurodevelopmental effects on behaviour and reproductive/developmental effects are the critical effects in rodent studies. For four congeners (BDE-47, -99, -153, -209) the Panel derived Reference Points, i.e. benchmark doses and corresponding lower 95% confidence limits (BMDLs), for endpoint-specific benchmark responses. Since repeated exposure to PBDEs results in accumulation of these chemicals in the body, the Panel estimated the body burden at the BMDL in rodents, and the chronic intake that would lead to the same body burden in humans. For the remaining six congeners no studies were available to identify Reference Points. The Panel concluded that there is scientific basis for inclusion of all 10 congeners in a common assessment group and performed a combined risk assessment. The Panel concluded that the combined margin of exposure (MOET) approach was the most appropriate risk metric and applied a tiered approach to the risk characterisation. Over 84,000 analytical results for the 10 congeners in food were used to estimate the exposure across dietary surveys and age groups of the European population. The most important contributors to the chronic dietary Lower Bound exposure to PBDEs were meat and meat products and fish and seafood. Taking into account the uncertainties affecting the assessment, the Panel concluded that it is likely that current dietary exposure to PBDEs in the European population raises a health concern.

Insights into mechanism of DNA damage and repair-apoptosis in digestive gland of female scallop Chlamys farreri under benzo[a]pyrene exposure during reproductive stage

As one of the most carcinogenic persistent organic pollutants (POPs), benzo[a]pyrene (B [a]P) brings high toxicity to marine bivalves. Digestive gland is the most important metabolism-related organ of aquatic animals. This study conducted the digestive gland transcriptome of Chlamys farreri under B[a]P treatment at reproductive stages. And the reproductive-stage dependence metabolism-DNA repair-apoptosis process of scallops under 0, 0.04, 0.4 and 4 μg/L B[a]P was studied by qRT-PCR. The results demonstrated that the detoxification metabolism was disturbed after ovulation except for CYP3A4. In antioxidant system, antioxidant enzyme CAT and GPX, and GGT1 (one of the non-enzymatic antioxidants synthesis gene) continuously served the function of antioxidant defense. Three types of DNA repair were activated under B[a]P stress, however, DNA strand breaks were still serious. B[a]P exposure weakened death receptor pathway as well as enhanced mitochondrial pathway, surprisingly suppressing apoptosis in scallops. In addition, ten indicators were screened by Spearman correlation analysis. This study will provide sound theoretical basis for bivalve toxicology and contribute to the biomonitoring of marine POPs pollution.

Blood Levels of Organochlorine Contaminants Mixtures and Cardiovascular Disease

Importance

Cardiovascular toxic effects derived from high exposures to individual organochlorine compounds are well documented. However, there is no evidence on low but continuous exposure to combined organochlorine compounds in the general population.

Objective

To evaluate the association of combined exposure to several organochlorine compounds, including organochlorine pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls, with incident cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the general population.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective nested case-control study included data from 2 cohorts: the Swedish Mammography Cohort-Clinical (SMC-C) and the Cohort of 60-Year-Olds (60YO), with matched case-control pairs based on age, sex, and sample date. Baseline blood sampling occurred from November 2003 to September 2009 (SMC-C) and from August 1997 to March 1999 (60YO), with follow-up through December 2017 (SMC-C) and December 2014 (60YO). Participants with myocardial infarction or ischemic stroke were matched with controls for composite CVD evaluation. Data were analyzed from September 2020 to May 2023.

Exposures

A total of 25 organochlorine compounds were measured in blood at baseline by gas chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. For 7 compounds, more than 75% of the samples were lower than the limit of detection and not included.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Incident cases of primary myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke were ascertained via linkage to the National Patient Register (International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision codes I21 and I63). The quantile-based g-computation method was used to estimate the association between the combined exposure to several organochlorine compounds and composite CVD.

Results

Of 1528 included participants, 1024 (67.0%) were female, and the mean (SD) age was 72 (7.0) years in the SMC-C and 61 (0.1) years in the 60YO. The odds ratio of composite CVD was 1.71 (95% CI, 1.11-2.64) per 1-quartile increment of total organochlorine compounds mixture. Organochlorinated pesticides were the largest contributors, and β-hexachlorocyclohexane and transnonachlor had the highest impact. Most of the outcome was not explained by disturbances in the main cardiometabolic risk factors, ie, high body mass index, hypertension, lipid alteration, or diabetes.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this prospective nested case-control study, participants with higher exposures to organochlorines had an increased probability of experiencing a cardiovascular event, the major cause of death worldwide. Measures may be required to reduce these exposures.

Cross-sectional associations of persistent organic pollutants measured in adipose tissue and metabolic syndrome in clinically diagnosed middle-aged adults

INTRODUCTION

Although often overlooked in clinical settings, accumulation of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) is thought to be a relevant risk factor for metabolic syndrome (MetS).

METHODS

One hundred and seventeen patients undergoing non-oncological surgery were randomly recruited and classified as MetS + if presented 3 out of the 5 MetS components: waist circumference (WC), systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP, respectively), serum glucose, insulin, triglycerides (TG) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels, according International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria. Seventeen organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were measured in adipose tissue samples. Linear, logistic and weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression models, adjusted for age and sex, were performed.

RESULTS

One third of the participants were males (36.8%) with a median age of 44 years, showing clinical evidences of MetS (35.0%). Adjusted linear regression models showed that WC correlated positively with all OCP concentrations. Higher fasting serum glucose levels were related to higher HCB and γ-HCH concentrations. The remaining OCPs and PCBs were not associated with this MetS component. HCB was inversely associated with HDL cholesterol levels, while PCB-180 was positively associated. HCB and γ-HCH concentrations were also positively correlated with DBP and SBP levels. PCB-138 was also positively associated with SBP. Adjusted logistic models revealed that exposure to HCB and γ-HCH were associated with increased odds of MetS [ORs (95%CI) 1.53 (1.22-1.92) and 1.39 (1.10-1.76) respectively; p < 0.01]. No associations were observed for the remaining POPs. WQS models showed a positive and significant mixture effect of POPs on the odds of MetS (exp [beta] = 2.34; p < 0.001), with γ-HCH (52.9%), o,p'-DDT (26.9%) and HCB (19.7%) driving the association.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings support that POPs accumulated in VAT, specifically HCB and (gamma)-HCH, are associated with both isolated components and clinically diagnosed SMT.

Associations between exposure to brominated flame retardants and metabolic syndrome and its components in U.S. adults

BACKGROUND

Humans are simultaneously exposed to numerous of environmental brominated flame retardants (BFRs). We aim to explore the overall associations of BFRs mixture on metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components and further identify significant chemicals.

METHODS

This study included 4641 adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) in 2007-2016. The weighted logistic regression was conducted to estimate the association of a single BFR exposure with MetS and its components. Meanwhile, the weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) were adopted to evaluate the overall associations of BFRs mixture on MetS and its components, and to identify significant chemicals. We also evaluated potential associations modified by sex.

RESULTS

In the weighted logistic regression model, PBB153 were positively associated with MetS in a dose-dependent manner (P_trend < 0.05). For its components, increasing quartiles of most BFRs were positively associated with abdominal obesity, hypertriglyceridemia, and low HDL. However, we found no statistically significant associations between BFRs and hypertension and hyperglycemia. WQS analyses found that BFRs mixture was positively associated with MetS (OR: 1.30; 95%CI:1.14, 1.46), abdominal obesity (OR: 1.15; 95%CI:1.03, 1.27), hypertriglyceridemia (OR:1.43; 95%CI:1.19, 1.67), and low HDL (OR: 1.15; 95%CI:1.01, 1.29). BKMR showed associations in a similar direction as WQS for BFRs mixture. For MetS, hypertriglyceridemia and Low HDL, PBB153, PBDE28 and PBDE209 were the most heavily weighting chemicals and had the highest the posterior inclusion probabilities in the WQS and BKMR, respectively. BFRs showed stronger associations of MetS and its components in males than in females.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study suggested exposure to BFRs mixture was positively associated with MetS and its components in adults, and PBB153, PBDE28 and PBDE209 were the significant chemicals. However, prospective cohort studies are still needed to confirm the causal effect between BFRs mixture and MetS.

Persistent Organic Pollutants in Human Milk: Exposure Levels and Determinants among Lactating Mothers in Lebanon

ABSTRACT

Exposure of newborns to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) is a public health concern. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of POPs in human milk collected from lactating mothers in Lebanon and to investigate the sociodemographic, nutritional, and other lifestyle determinants. Fifty-four breast milk samples were collected as per World Health Organization guidelines. A survey was used to assess the anthropometric and demographic characteristics of participants. Dietary habits were evaluated based on a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. Organochlorine pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls were measured in milk samples with liquid-liquid extraction and gas chromatography. Among the screened POPs, dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE) was the only POP detected in breast milk samples and was found in only 17.9% of the samples, with a mean (SD) of 11.6 (5.0) μg/L and a range of 5.7 to 21.4 μg/L. Prepregnancy body mass index and age were positively associated with DDE contamination in breast milk. Women who consumed cereals at least two times per week had detectable DDE contamination in their breast milk. Consumption of potatoes and beans at least once per week was also associated with DDE contamination. Our study is the first to assess the presence of POPs in breast milk in Lebanon. The benefits of breastfeeding compensate for the low prevalence of DDE in the breast milk. Our findings highlight the high need to implement monitoring policies, good agricultural practices, and education programs for breastfeeding mothers.

HIGHLIGHTS

Biomonitoring of exposure to Great Lakes contaminants among licensed anglers and Burmese refugees in Western New York: Toxic metals and persistent organic pollutants, 2010-2015

Between 2010 and 2015, the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) conducted a biomonitoring program to gather exposure data on Great Lakes contaminants among licensed anglers and Burmese refugees living in western New York who ate locally caught fish. Four hundred and nine adult licensed anglers and 206 adult Burmese refugees participated in this program. Participants provided blood and urine samples and completed a detailed questionnaire. Herein, we present blood metal levels (cadmium, lead, and total mercury) and serum persistent organic pollutant concentrations [polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), and trans-nonachlor]. Multiple linear regression was applied to investigate the associations between analyte concentrations and indicators of fish consumption (locally caught fish meals, store-bought fish meals, and consuming fish/shellfish in the past week). Licensed anglers consumed a median of 16 locally caught fish meals and 22 store-bought fish meals while Burmese refugees consumed a median of 106 locally caught fish meals and 104 store-bought fish/shellfish meals in the past year. Compared to the general U.S. adult population, licensed anglers had higher blood lead and mercury levels; and Burmese refuges had higher blood cadmium, lead, and mercury, and higher serum DDE levels. Eating more locally caught fish was associated with higher blood lead, blood mercury, and serum ∑PCBs concentrations among licensed anglers. Licensed anglers and Burmese refugees who reported fish/shellfish consumption in the past week had elevated blood mercury levels compared with those who reported no consumption. Among licensed anglers, eating more store-bought fish meals was also associated with higher blood mercury levels. As part of the program, NYSDOH staff provided fish advisory outreach and education to all participants on ways to reduce their exposures, make healthier choices of fish to eat, and waters to fish from. Overall, our findings on exposure levels and fish consumption provide information to support the development and implementation of exposure reduction public health actions.

Key Characteristics of Cardiovascular Toxicants

BACKGROUND

The concept of chemical agents having properties that confer potential hazard called key characteristics (KCs) was first developed to identify carcinogenic hazards. Identification of KCs of cardiovascular (CV) toxicants could facilitate the systematic assessment of CV hazards and understanding of assay and data gaps associated with current approaches.

OBJECTIVES

We sought to develop a consensus-based synthesis of scientific evidence on the KCs of chemical and nonchemical agents known to cause CV toxicity along with methods to measure them.

METHODS

An expert working group was convened to discuss mechanisms associated with CV toxicity.

RESULTS

The group identified 12 KCs of CV toxicants, defined as exogenous agents that adversely interfere with function of the CV system. The KCs were organized into those primarily affecting cardiac tissue (numbers 1-4 below), the vascular system (5-7), or both (8-12), as follows: 1) impairs regulation of cardiac excitability, 2) impairs cardiac contractility and relaxation, 3) induces cardiomyocyte injury and death, 4) induces proliferation of valve stroma, 5) impacts endothelial and vascular function, 6) alters hemostasis, 7) causes dyslipidemia, 8) impairs mitochondrial function, 9) modifies autonomic nervous system activity, 10) induces oxidative stress, 11) causes inflammation, and 12) alters hormone signaling.

DISCUSSION

These 12 KCs can be used to help identify pharmaceuticals and environmental pollutants as CV toxicants, as well as to better understand the mechanistic underpinnings of their toxicity. For example, evidence exists that fine particulate matter [PM ≤2.5μm in aerodynamic diameter (PM2.5)] air pollution, arsenic, anthracycline drugs, and other exogenous chemicals possess one or more of the described KCs. In conclusion, the KCs could be used to identify potential CV toxicants and to define a set of test methods to evaluate CV toxicity in a more comprehensive and standardized manner than current approaches. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP9321.

Serum concentrations of persistent organic pollutants and colorectal cancer risk: A case-cohort study within Korean National Cancer Center Community (KNCCC) cohort

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Recent prospective cohort studies have suggested that circulating persistent organic pollutants (POPs) may be associated with the development of cancers. We investigated the association between pre-diagnostic serum concentrations of POPs and colorectal cancer (CRC) risk.

METHODS

A case-cohort study within a community-based prospective cohort was performed, including 104 CRC cases and 235 subcohort participants. Serum concentrations of POPs were measured by high resolution gas chromatography/high-resolution mass spectrometry. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were used.

RESULTS

The association between serum concentrations of organochlorine pesticides (OCs) and CRC risk was significant (cis-heptachlor epoxide: 3rd tercile [HR (95% CI): 2.76 (1.25-6.07); trans-nonachlor: 2nd tercile [HR (95% CI): 3.90 (1.56-9.75)], 3rd tercile [HR (95% CI): 4.86 (1.95-12.16)]); p,p'-DDD: 2nd tercile [HR (95% CI): 6.02 (2.05-17.70)], 3rd tercile [HR (95% CI): 7.43 (2.42-22.84)]). Certain polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) congeners were significantly associated with CRC risk (PCB-105: 3rd tercile HR [95% CI]: 3.15 [1.38-7.19], PCB-118: 3rd tercile HR [95% CI]: 2.68 [1.22-5.92]; PCB-138: 2nd tercile [HR (95% CI): 2.51 (1.19-5.28)], 3rd tercile [HR (95% CI): 3.27 (1.50-7.12)]; PCB-153: 2nd tercile [HR (95% CI): 3.93 (1.81-8.54)], 3rd tercile [HR (95% CI): 5.02 (2.09-12.07)]; PCB-156: 2nd tercile [HR (95% CI): 2.61 (1.21-5.59)], 3rd tercile [HR (95% CI): 4.07 (1.73-9.61)]; PCB-180: 2nd tercile [HR (95% CI): 2.58 (1.15-5.78)], 3rd tercile [HR (95% CI): 4.01 (1.68-9.59)]).results CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that serum concentrations of POPs could increase the CRC risk in the general population.

Serum levels of novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs) in residents of a major BFR-producing region: Occurrence, impact factors and the relationship to thyroid and liver function

Five currently used novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs) were determined in 172 serum samples collected from nonoccupational residents of a major BFR-producing region. All the 5 NBFRs presented high detection frequencies (DFs, >90%), and decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE), a substitute of decabrominated diphenyl ethers (deca-BDE), was the most abundant NBFR. The levels of DBDPE were from <LOD to 1590 ng/g lw, with a median level of 32.5 ng/g lw. The median levels of other NBFRs were from 0.134 to 2.87 ng/g lw, which were at least 10 times lower than that of DBDPE. Moreover, a comparison to other studies showed that our results were significantly higher than studies conducted in background population. The levels of some NBFRs adjusted by serum lipid showed negative and significant correlation with BMI, whereas the difference disappeared when NBFRs levels were calculated based on serum volume. Certain NBFRs in female showed significantly higher concentrations than those in male. No significant effect of age, smoking habit, education level and children birth (in female) on serum NBFR levels was observed. The relationship between the serum levels of NBFRs and a series of thyroid/liver injury biomarkers was further analyzed to evaluate the health effects of these NBFRs to human being. Results showed that a 10-fold increment in the serum DBDPE level was associated with decreased total triiodothyronine (TT3) level (-0.037 nmol/L) [95% CI: -0.070, -0.003]， whereas serum pentabromoethylbenzene (PBEB) level was associated with increased total triiodothyronine (TT3) level (0.031 nmol/L) [95% CI: 0.001, 0.060]. For liver indicators, a 10-fold increment in the serum level of PBT was associated with decreased Ln aspartate aminotransferase/alanine aminotransferase (AST/ALT) level (-0.068) [95% CI: -0.129, -0.007]. A 10-fold increment in the serum level of BTBPE was associated with increased TBIL level (0.869 μmol/L) [95% CI: 0.175, 1.564], direct bilirubin (DBIL) level (0.231 μmol/L) [95% CI: 0.075, 0.388] and IDBIL level (0.638 μmol/L) [95% CI: 0.091, 1.185]. Our findings indicate that BFR production is posing heavy BFR contamination to surrounding environment and human being, and which might relate to thyroid disruption and liver injury.

Are Persistent Organic Pollutants Linked to Lipid Abnormalities, Atherosclerosis and Cardiovascular Disease? A Review

The term persistent organic pollutants (POPs) denotes chemicals with known or suspected adverse health effects in animals or humans and with chemical properties that make them accumulate in the environment, including animals or humans. Lipid-soluble POPs, like dioxins, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides are transported by lipoproteins and accumulate in adipose tissue. High levels of these compounds in the circulation have been associated with elevated cholesterol and triglycerides in cross-sectional studies and with an increase in mainly low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in a longitudinal study. Also, non-lipid-soluble POPs, such as perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) compounds have been associated with increased total cholesterol levels. Carotid artery atherosclerosis has been related to elevated levels of mainly highly chlorinated PCBs and to highly fluorinated PFASs, but in this case only in women. Both cross-sectional and prospective studies have shown dioxins, PCBs, as well as PFASs to be linked to cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality. In conclusion, as highlighted in this review, several lines of evidence support the view that POPs of different chemical classes could be linked to lipid abnormalities, carotid atherosclerosis and overt CVD like myocardial infarction and stroke.

Levels of Octachlorostyrene in Mothers' Milk and Potential Exposure Among Infants in Sendai City, Japan 2012

Persistent organic pollutants can accumulate inside the human body, including in mothers' milk, which may affect infant development. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine selected persistent organic pollutants in the milk of 100 mothers in Sendai city, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. We used gas-chromatography-electron capture negative chemical ionization-mass spectrometry to check for octachlorostyrene, dechlorane (Dec) plus, Dec 602, Dec 603, and Dec 604. Octachlorostyrene was detected in 86 samples at more than the method detection limit (84 pg g-lipid^-1) but no dechloranes were above the method detection limit (1 ng mL^-1 for dechlorane plus, Dec 602, and Dec 603; 20 ng mL^-1 for Dec 604). The mean octachlorostyrene concentration was 461&nbsp;pg&nbsp;g-lipid^-1, the median was 337 pg g-lipid^-1, and the standard deviation 450 pg g-lipid^-1. No baseline characteristics were associated with octachlorostyrene level except for mother's occupation (stay-at-home mother, 353 ± 327 pg g-lipid^-1; others, 531 ± 509 pg g-lipid^-1). Octachlorostyrene was also significantly negatively correlated with lipid content (r = -0.35, p = 0.0004). However, the maximum intake of octachlorostyrene among infants in this study (3.5 ng/kg/day) was under the acceptable daily intake (30 ng/kg/day, derived from 12-month study in rats), and is therefore unlikely to pose a health risk.

Chlorinated persistent organic pollutants and type 2 diabetes - A population-based study with pre- and post- diagnostic plasma samples

BACKGROUND

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) have been associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D), but causality is uncertain.

OBJECTIVE

Within longitudinal population-based data from northern Sweden, we assessed how POPs associated with T2D prospectively and cross-sectionally, and further investigated factors related to individual changes in POP concentrations.

METHODS

For 129 case-controls pairs matched by age, sex and date of sampling, plasma concentrations of hexachlorobenzene (HCB), dichlorodiphenyl-dichloroethylene (p,p'-DDE), dioxin-like (DL) polychlorinated biphenyl congeners (PCB-118 and PCB-156), and non-dioxin like (NDL-PCB: PCB-74, -99, -138 -153, -170, -180, -183 and PCB-187) were analyzed twice (baseline and follow-up, 9-20 years apart). The cases received their T2D diagnose between baseline and follow-up. Prospective (using baseline data) and cross-sectional (using follow-up data) odds ratios (ORs) for T2D on lipid standardized POPs (HCB, p,p'-DDE, ∑DL-PCBs, ∑NDL-PCBs) were estimated using conditional logistic regression, adjusting for body mass index (BMI) and plasma lipids. The influence of BMI, weight-change, and plasma lipids on longitudinal changes in POP concentrations were evaluated among non-diabetic individuals (n = 306).

RESULTS

POPs were associated with T2D in both the prospective and cross-sectional assessments. Of a standard deviation increase in POPs, prospective ORs ranged 1.42 (95% CI: 0.99, 2.06) for ∑NDL-PCBs to 1.55 (95% CI: 1.01, 2.38) for HCB (p < 0.05 only for HCB), and cross-sectional ORs ranged 1.62 (95% CI: 1.13; 2.32) for p,p'-DDE to 2.06 (95% CI: 1.29, 3.28) for ∑DL-PCBs (p < 0.05 for all POPs). In analyses of non-diabetic individuals, higher baseline BMI, decreased weight and decreased plasma lipid concentrations were associated with a slower decrease of POPs. Cases had, besides a higher BMI, reduced cholesterol and weight gain at follow-up compared to controls, which can explain the higher ORs in the cross-sectional assessments.

DISCUSSION

The association between POPs and T2D was confirmed, but an indication that individuals body fat history might influence POP-T2D associations weakens the epidemiological support for a causal association. It also warrants studies based on other exposure metrics than biomonitoring. In addition, we note that a cross-sectional design overestimates the ORs if T2D cases have successfully intervened on weight and/or blood lipids, as changes in these factors cause changes in POPs.

Association of Exposure to Persistent Organic Pollutants With Mortality Risk: An Analysis of Data From the Prospective Investigation of Vasculature in Uppsala Seniors (PIVUS) Study

IMPORTANCE

It has been suggested that persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are harmful to human health.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate if POP levels in plasma are associated with future mortality.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Cohort study using data from the population-based Prospective Investigation of the Vasculature in Uppsala Seniors (PIVUS) study, collected between May 2001 and June 2004 when participants reached age 70 years. Participants were followed up for 5 years after the first examination. Mortality was tracked from age 70 to 80 years. Data analysis was conducted in January and February 2018.

EXPOSURES

Eighteen POPs identified by the Stockholm Convention, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides, and a brominated flame retardant, were measured in plasma levels by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

All-cause mortality.

RESULTS

The study sample initially included 992 individuals (497 [50.1%] men) aged 70 years, who were examined between 2001 and 2004. At the second examination 5 years later, 814 individuals (82.1%; 412 [50.7%] women) completed follow-up. During a follow-up period of 10.0 years, 158 deaths occurred. When updated information on POP levels at ages 70 and 75 years was associated with all-cause mortality using Cox proportional hazard analyses, a significant association was found between hexa-chloro- through octa-chloro-substituted (highly chlorinated) PCBs and all-cause mortality (except PCB 194). The most significant association was observed for PCB 206 (hazard ratio [HR] for 1-SD higher natural log-transformed circulating PCB 206 levels, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.26-1.91; P < .001). Following adjustment for hypertension, diabetes, smoking, body mass index, and cardiovascular disease at baseline, most associations were no longer statistically significant, but PCBs 206, 189, 170, and 209 were still significantly associated with all-cause mortality (PCB 206: adjusted HR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.19-1.81; PCB 189: adjusted HR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.08-1.55; PCB 170: adjusted HR, 1.24; 95% CI, 1.02-1.52; PCB 209: adjusted HR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.04-1.60). In a secondary analysis, these associations were mainly because of death from cardiovascular diseases rather than noncardiovascular diseases. Three organochlorine pesticides, including dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene, and the brominated flame retardant diphenyl ether 47 were also evaluated but did not show any significant associations with all-cause mortality.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Higher levels of highly chlorinated PCBs were associated with an increased mortality risk, especially from cardiovascular diseases. These results suggest that public health actions should be undertaken to minimize exposure to highly chlorinated PCBs.

Organochlorine pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in early adulthood and blood lipids over a 23-year follow-up

BACKGROUND

Some evidence in humans suggests that persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), may alter the blood lipid composition. This study analyzed associations between serum POPs concentrations in young adulthood with blood lipid levels up to 23 years later.

METHODS

Serum POPs were measured in year 2 of follow-up (n = 180 men and women, ages: 20-32y), and plasma lipids in follow-up years 2, 7, 10, 15, 20 and 25. 32 POPs were detectable in ≥75% of participants (23 PCBs, 8 OCPs and PBB-153). We created summary scores for PCBs and OCPs for both wet-weight, and lipid standardized (LP) concentrations. We used repeated measures regression adjusting for demographic factors, BMI, smoking, diabetes status, among others.

RESULTS

We observed positive associations of the 23 LP-PCB score with total cholesterol (β_{per SD increase} [95%CI]: 5.0 mg/dL [0.7, 9.2]), triglycerides (7.8 mg/dL [-0.9, 16.5]), LDL (4.2 mg/dL [0.2, 8.2]), oxidized LDL 3.4 U/L (-0.05, 6.8), and cholesterol/HDL ratio (0.2 [0.02, 0.3]). The associations for triglycerides (14.7 mg/dL [0.4, 20.1]), cholesterol/HDL (0.33 [0.09, 0.56]) and, to some extent, LDL (4.7 md/dL [-1.6, 10.9]) were only observed among participants in the upper 50th percentile of BMI. Non-dioxin-like PCBs had stronger associations that dioxin-like PCBs. OCPs and PBB-s had positive associations with most outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

PCBs and PBB-153 measured in young adulthood were positively associated with prospective alterations in most blood lipid components, with evidence of effect modification by BMI. Further longitudinal studies with multiple measures of POPs overtime are needed.

Decarbromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209) promotes monocyte-endothelial adhesion in cultured human aortic endothelial cells through upregulating intercellular adhesion molecule-1

There is growing evidence that exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) is statistically associated with incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) or its risk factors. Decarbromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209) is a new POP which exists extensively in human tissues, but its potential effects on CVD have so far received less focus. The adhesion of circulating monocytes to endothelial cells is one of the critical underlying steps in the initiation and development of CVD. In the present study, we investigated the effect of BDE-209 on the adhesion of THP-1 monocytes to human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) and identified the molecular mechanisms involved. Our results showed that 6.25, 12.5 and 25 µM of BDE-209 exposures caused significant increases in monocyte-endothelial cell adhesion, in a dose-dependent manner. Mechanistically, BDE-209 exposure increased the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). Moreover, the up-regulation of ICAM-1 was accompanied by a decrease in the expression of microRNA-141 (miR-141). Furthermore, the up-regulation of ICAM-1 and the increased adhesion induced by BDE-209 could be reversed by miR-141 supplement. Taken together, our results show that BDE-209 potentiates monocyte-endothelial cell interaction via miR-141/ICAM-1 pathway in HAECs.

Decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209) enhances foam cell formation in human macrophages via augmenting Toll-like receptor 4-dependent lipid uptake

Growing epidemiological evidence is substantiating an association between exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and incidence of atherosclerosis. Decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209) is a new POP which presents extensively in human populations; whether this contaminant is potentially arteriosclerotic remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of BDE-209 on macrophage-derived foam cell formation, a hallmark of early atherosclerosis, using THP-1-derived macrophages incubated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) as a foam cell model. The results showed that 6.25, 12.5 and 25.0 μM of BDE-209 significantly enhanced lipid accumulation inside the foam cells, in a dose-dependent manner. Further mechanism assays suggested that BDE-209 significantly increased the expression of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), a signal transducing integral membrane protein mediating lipid uptake in macrophages, at both the mRNA and protein levels. In contrast, there was no significant changes for several key regulators involving in lipid efflux, lipogenesis, and lipid oxidation in macrophages. Furthermore, the augmented lipid accumulation was almost completely abrogated by treatment with an anti-TLR4 antibody. Together, these data illustrate that BDE-209 enhances oxLDL-induced macrophage foam cell formation via augmenting TLR4-dependent lipid uptake in the cells.

Longitudinal changes in persistent organic pollutants (POPs) from 2001 to 2009 in a sample of elderly Swedish men and women

BACKGROUND

Prospective cohort studies evaluating the temporal trends of background-level persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and their potential negative health effects in humans are needed.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this study are to examine the five year longitudinal trend in chlorinated and brominated (Cl/Br) POP concentrations in a sample of elderly individuals and to investigate the relationship between gender, changes in body weight, plasma lipid levels and POP concentrations.

METHODS

In the population-based Prospective Investigation of the Vasculature in Uppsala Seniors (PIVUS) study, plasma samples were collected from the same individuals over a 5 year period. Originally 992 subjects (all aged 70) were sampled between 2001 and 2004 and 814 returning subjects (all aged 75) were sampled again from 2006 to 2009. Plasma concentrations of 16 polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), 5 organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), octachlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin (OCDD), and one polybrominated diphenylether (BDE 47) were determined using high-throughput 96-well plate solid phase extraction and gas chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (GC-HRMS).

RESULTS

During the 5-year follow-up, plasma concentrations of all POPs significantly decreased (p < 0.00001). Median reductions ranged from 4% (PCB105) to 45% (PCB 99), with most reductions being in the 30-40% range. For most POPs, a larger decline was seen in men than in women. The relationship between the weight change and change in POP concentrations was generally negative, but a positive relationship between lipid levels and POP concentrations when expressed as wet-weight was observed. In general, similar changes in POP concentrations and their relationships to body weight were observed regardless of using either wet-weight (pg/mL) or lipid-normalized (ng/g lipid) concentrations.

CONCLUSION

In this longitudinal cohort study, gender and minor, but varying changes in body weight and lipid levels greatly influenced the individual-based changes in POP concentrations. In general, our findings suggest that men and women with larger decreases in body weight and greater increases in lipid levels have the slowest decline in body burden of POPs. Based on the results from this study, either wet-weight or lipid normalized concentrations can be used to determine the percent change in POP concentrations and their relationships to physiological changes and differences.

Association of blood polychlorinated biphenyls and cholesterol levels among Canadian Inuit

BACKGROUND

It has generally been thought that Inuit populations have low risk of cardiovascular disease due to high consumption of omega-3 fatty acids found in traditional marine-based diets. However, results of recent surveys showed that Inuit populations are experiencing increasing rates of cardiovascular disease and related risk factors.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate if blood polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are associated with high cholesterol and related parameters in Canadian Inuit, known risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

METHODS

The Adult Inuit Health Survey (IHS, 2007-2008) included 2595 Inuit participants from three regions of the Canadian Arctic, of which 2191 could be classified as with or without high cholesterol. The high cholesterol outcome was defined by LDL-C > 3.36mmol/L or taking medication(s) that reduce cholesterol, and was examined in adjusted logistic regression models with individual blood levels of PCB congeners, sum of dioxin-like PCBs (∑DL-PCBs), or sum of non-dioxin-like PCBs (∑NDL-PCBs). Statistically significant covariates for high cholesterol were ranked in importance according to the proportion of the model log likelihood explained. Continuous clinical parameters of total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-C, and HDL-C were examined in multiple linear regression models with ∑DL-PCBs or ∑NDL-PCBs.

RESULTS

A total of 719 participants had high cholesterol (32.8%). PCBs were associated with increased risk of high cholesterol, and higher levels of serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL-C. No association was observed between PCBs and serum HDL-C. With respect to other statistically significant covariates for high cholesterol, the log likelihood ranking of PCBs generally fell between body mass index (BMI) and age.

CONCLUSION

Further work is needed to corroborate the associations observed with PCBs and lipids in Canadian Inuit and to examine if they are causal in the direction anticipated.

Adipose tissue dysfunction as a central mechanism leading to dysmetabolic obesity triggered by chronic exposure to p,p'-DDE

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as p,p’-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p’-DDE), are bioaccumulated in the adipose tissue (AT) and have been implicated in the obesity and diabetes epidemic. Thus, it is hypothesized that p,p’-DDE exposure could aggravate the harm of an obesogenic context. We explored the effects of 12 weeks exposure in male Wistar rats’ metabolism and AT biology, assessing a range of metabolic, biochemical and histological parameters. p,p’-DDE -treatment exacerbated several of the metabolic syndrome-accompanying features induced by high-fat diet (HF), such as dyslipidaemia, glucose intolerance and hypertension. A transcriptome analysis comparing mesenteric visceral AT (vAT) of HF and HF/DDE groups revealed a decrease in expression of nervous system and tissue development-related genes, with special relevance for the neuropeptide galanin that also revealed DNA methylation changes at its promoter region. Additionally, we observed an increase in transcription of dipeptidylpeptidase 4, as well as a plasmatic increase of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β. Our results suggest that p,p’-DDE impairs vAT normal function and effectively decreases the dynamic response to energy surplus. We conclude that p,p’-DDE does not merely accumulate in fat, but may contribute significantly to the development of metabolic dysfunction and inflammation. Our findings reinforce their recognition as metabolism disrupting chemicals, even in non-obesogenic contexts.

Organochlorine pesticides, their toxic effects on living organisms and their fate in the environment

Organochlorine (OC) pesticides are synthetic pesticides widely used all over the world. They belong to the group of chlorinated hydrocarbon derivatives, which have vast application in the chemical industry and in agriculture. These compounds are known for their high toxicity, slow degradation and bioaccumulation. Even though many of the compounds which belong to OC were banned in developed countries, the use of these agents has been rising. This concerns particularly abuse of these chemicals which is in practice across the continents. Though pesticides have been developed with the concept of target organism toxicity, often non-target species are affected badly by their application. The purpose of this review is to list the major classes of pesticides, to understand organochlorine pesticides based on their activity and persistence, and also to understand their biochemical toxicity.

Metabolism disrupting chemicals and metabolic disorders

The recent epidemics of metabolic diseases, obesity, type 2 diabetes(T2D), liver lipid disorders and metabolic syndrome have largely been attributed to genetic background and changes in diet, exercise and aging. However, there is now considerable evidence that other environmental factors may contribute to the rapid increase in the incidence of these metabolic diseases. This review will examine changes to the incidence of obesity, T2D and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the contribution of genetics to these disorders and describe the role of the endocrine system in these metabolic disorders. It will then specifically focus on the role of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in the etiology of obesity, T2D and NAFLD while finally integrating the information on EDCs on multiple metabolic disorders that could lead to metabolic syndrome. We will specifically examine evidence linking EDC exposures during critical periods of development with metabolic diseases that manifest later in life and across generations.

Endosulfan inhibits proliferation through the Notch signaling pathway in human umbilical vein endothelial cells

Our previous research showed that endosulfan triggers the extrinsic coagulation pathway by damaging endothelial cells and causes hypercoagulation of blood. To identify the mechanism of endosulfan-impaired endothelial cells, we treated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) with different concentrations of endosulfan, with and without an inhibitor for Notch, N-[N-(3, 5-difluorophenacetyl)-1-alanyl]S-Phenylglycinet-butylester (DAPT, 20 μM), or a reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger, N-Acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC, 3 mM), for 24 h. The results showed that endosulfan could inhibit cell viability/proliferation by increasing the release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), arresting the cell cycle in both S and G2/M phases, and inducing apoptosis in HUVECs. We also found that endosulfan can damage microfilaments, microtubules, and nuclei; arrest mitosis; remarkably increase the expressions of Dll4, Notch1, Cleaved-Notch1, Jagged1, Notch4, Hes1, and p21; and significantly induce ROS and malondialdehyde production in HUVECs. The presence of DAPT antagonized the above changes of cycle arrest, proliferation inhibition, and expressions of Dll4, Notch1, Cleaved-Notch1, Hes1, and p21 caused by endosulfan; however, NAC could attenuate LDH release; ROS and malondialdehyde production; apoptosis; and the expression levels of Dll4, Notch1, Cleaved-Notch1, Notch4, and Hes1 induced by endosulfan. These results demonstrated that endosulfan inhibited proliferation through the Notch signaling pathway as a result of oxidative stress. In addition, endosulfan can damage the cytoskeleton and block mitosis, which may add another layer of toxic effects on endothelial cells.

Alterations in high-density lipoprotein proteome and function associated with persistent organic pollutants

There is a growing body of evidence that persistent organic pollutants (POPs) may increase the risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD), but the mechanisms remain unclear. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) acts protective against CVD by different processes, and we have earlier found that HDL from subjects with CVD contains higher levels of POPs than healthy controls. In the present study, we have expanded analyses on the same individuals living in a contaminated community and investigated the relationship between the HDL POP levels and protein composition/function. HDL from 17 subjects was isolated by ultracentrifugation. HDL protein composition, using nanoliquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry, and antioxidant activity were analyzed. The associations of 16 POPs, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides, with HDL proteins/functions were investigated by partial least square and multiple linear regression analysis. Proteomic analyses identified 118 HDL proteins, of which ten were significantly (p<0.05) and positively associated with the combined level of POPs or with highly chlorinated PCB congeners. Among these, cholesteryl ester transfer protein and phospholipid transfer protein, as well as the inflammatory marker serum amyloid A, were found. The serum paraoxonase/arylesterase 1 activity was inversely associated with POPs. Pathway analysis demonstrated that up-regulated proteins were associated with biological processes involving lipoprotein metabolism, while down-regulated proteins were associated with processes such as negative regulation of proteinases, acute phase response, platelet degranulation, and complement activation. These results indicate an association between POP levels, especially highly chlorinated PCBs, and HDL protein alterations that may result in a less functional particle. Further studies are needed to determine causality and the importance of other environmental factors. Nevertheless, this study provides a first insight into a possible link between exposure to POPs and risk of CVD.

The Effect of Exposure to Persistent Organic Pollutants on Metabolic Health among KOREAN Children during a 1-Year Follow-Up

Previous evidence suggests the potential for adverse effects of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) on metabolic health even at low-dose exposure levels common among the general population, but there is less evidence of these associations among children. Therefore, as part of a prospective cohort study, 214 children were measured for POPs exposure. After the 1-year follow-up, we assessed the effect of circulating POPs exposure among 158 children aged 7-9 years (at baseline) on the change of metabolic components of metabolic syndrome using multiple regression analysis. In addition, we calculated the continuous metabolic syndrome (cMetS) score and assessed the variation among individuals by POPs exposure. The concentrations of marker polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were significantly associated with increased change in diastolic blood pressure (BP) and triglyceride levels during a 1-year follow-up, after controlling for sex, age, household income, and change in body mass index. Total PCBs also showed a marginal association with increasing cMetS score from the baseline. Of the metabolic components, change in diastolic BP over time showed a notable association with specific PCBs, but no association with organochlorine pesticides. Here, we found that low-dose exposures to PCBs among children in the general population could negatively influence metabolic health, particularly diastolic BP. Increased disease sensitivity during childhood can continue to adulthood, thus, these results support the need for continuous assessment of the health impact of POPs.

Polychlorinated biphenyls and links to cardiovascular disease

The pathology of cardiovascular disease is multi-faceted, with links to many modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. Epidemiological evidence now implicates exposure to persistent organic pollutants, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), with an increased risk of developing diabetes, hypertension, and obesity; all of which are clinically relevant to the onset and progression of cardiovascular disease. PCBs exert their cardiovascular toxicity either directly or indirectly via multiple mechanisms, which are highly dependent on the type and concentration of PCBs present. However, many PCBs may modulate cellular signaling pathways leading to common detrimental outcomes including induction of chronic oxidative stress, inflammation, and endocrine disruption. With the abundance of potential toxic pollutants increasing globally, it is critical to identify sensible means of decreasing associated disease risks. Emerging evidence now implicates a protective role of lifestyle modifications such as increased exercise and/or nutritional modulation via anti-inflammatory foods, which may help to decrease the vascular toxicity of PCBs. This review will outline the current state of knowledge linking coplanar and non-coplanar PCBs to cardiovascular disease and describe the possible molecular mechanism of this association.