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Chau K, Neier K, Valenzuela AE, Schmidt RJ, Durbin-Johnson B, Lein PJ, Korf I, LaSalle JM. Placental-brain axis in females detected within broadly impacted metabolic gene networks protects against prenatal PCB exposure. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.14.603326. [PMID: 39071357 PMCID: PMC11275969 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.14.603326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Background Neurodevelopmental disorders have a strong male bias that is poorly understood. Placenta is a rich source of molecular information about environmental interactions with genetics (including biological sex), that affect the developing brain. We investigated placental-brain transcriptional responses in an established mouse model of prenatal exposure to a human-relevant mixture of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Results To understand sex, tissue, and dosage effects in embryonic (E18) brain and placenta by RNAseq, we used weighted gene correlation network analysis (WGCNA) to create correlated gene networks that could be compared across sex or tissue. WGCNA revealed that expression within most correlated gene networks was significantly and strongly associated with PCB exposures, but frequently in opposite directions between male-female and placenta-brain comparisons. In both WGCNA and differentially expressed gene analyses, male brain showed more PCB-induced transcriptional changes than male placenta, but the reverse pattern was seen in females. Furthermore, non-monotonic dose responses to PCBs were observed in most gene networks but were most prominent in male brain. The transcriptomic effects of low dose PCB exposure were significantly reversed by dietary folic acid supplementation across both sexes, but these effects were strongest in female placenta. PCB-dysregulated and folic acid-reversed gene networks were commonly enriched in functions in metabolic pathways involved in energy usage and translation, with female-specific protective effects enriched in PPAR, thermogenesis, glycerolipids, and O-glycan biosynthesis, as opposed to toxicant responses in male brain. Conclusions The female protective effect in prenatal PCB exposures appears to be mediated by dose-dependent sex differences in transcriptional modulation of metabolism in placenta.
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2
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Balalian AA, Stingone JA, Kahn LG, Herbstman JB, Graeve RI, Stellman SD, Factor-Litvak P. Perinatal exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and child neurodevelopment: A comprehensive systematic review of outcomes and methodological approaches. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 252:118912. [PMID: 38615789 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118912] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), extensively used in various products, prompt ongoing concern despite reduced exposure since the 1970s. This systematic review explores prenatal PCB and hydroxylated metabolites (OH-PCBs) exposure's association with child neurodevelopment. Encompassing cognitive, motor development, behavior, attention, ADHD, and ASD risks, it also evaluates diverse methodological approaches in studies. METHODS PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, and Web of Science databases were searched through August 23, 2023, by predefined search strings. Peer-reviewed studies published in English were included. The inclusion criteria were: (i) PCBs/OH-PCBs measured directly in maternal and cord blood, placenta or breast milk collected in the perinatal period; (ii) outcomes of cognitive development, motor development, attention, behavior, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among children≤18 years old. Quality assessment followed the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's tool. RESULTS Overall, 87 studies were included in this review. We found evidence for the association between perinatal PCB exposure and adverse cognitive development and attention issues in middle childhood. There appeared to be no or negligible link between perinatal PCB exposure and early childhood motor development or the risk of ADHD/ASD. There was an indication of a sex-specific association with worse cognition and attention scores among boys. Some individual studies suggested a possible association between prenatal exposure to OH-PCBs and neurodevelopmental outcomes. There was significant heterogeneity between the studies in exposure markers, exposure assessment timing, outcome assessment, and statistical analysis. CONCLUSIONS Significant methodological, clinical and statistical heterogeneity existed in the included studies. Adverse effects on cognitive development and attention were observed in middle childhood. Little or no apparent link on both motor development and risk of ADHD/ASD was observed in early childhood. Inconclusive evidence prevailed regarding other neurodevelopmental aspects due to limited studies. Future research could further explore sex-specific associations and evaluate associations at lower exposure levels post-PCB ban in the US. It should also consider OH-PCB metabolites, co-pollutants, mixtures, and their potential interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arin A Balalian
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Question Driven Design and Analysis Group (QD-DAG), New York, NY, USA.
| | - Jeanette A Stingone
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Linda G Kahn
- Departments of Pediatrics and Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Julie B Herbstman
- Columbia Center for Children's Environmental Health, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Richard I Graeve
- Institute for Medical Sociology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle Saale, Germany
| | - Steven D Stellman
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Pam Factor-Litvak
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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3
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Yesildemir O, Celik MN. Association between pre- and postnatal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals and birth and neurodevelopmental outcomes: an extensive review. Clin Exp Pediatr 2024; 67:328-346. [PMID: 37986566 PMCID: PMC11222910 DOI: 10.3345/cep.2023.00941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are natural or synthetic chemicals that mimic, block, or interfere with the hormones in the body. The most common and well- studied EDCs are bisphenol A, phthalates, and persistent organic pollutants including polychlorinated biphenyls, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, other brominated flame retardants, organochlorine pesticides, dioxins, and furans. Starting in embryonic life, humans are constantly exposed to EDCs through air, diet, skin, and water. Fetuses and newborns undergo crucial developmental processes that allow adaptation to the environment throughout life. As developing organisms, they are extremely sensitive to low doses of EDCs. Many EDCs can cross the placental barrier and reach the developing fetal organs. In addition, newborns can be exposed to EDCs through breastfeeding or formula feeding. Pre- and postnatal exposure to EDCs may increase the risk of childhood diseases by disrupting the hormone-mediated processes critical for growth and development during gestation and infancy. This review discusses evidence of the relationship between pre- and postnatal exposure to several EDCs, childbirth, and neurodevelopmental outcomes. Available evidence suggests that pre- and postnatal exposure to certain EDCs causes fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, low birth weight, and neurodevelopmental problems through various mechanisms of action. Given the adverse effects of EDCs on child development, further studies are required to clarify the overall associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozge Yesildemir
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Mensure Nur Celik
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey
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4
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Wilson RJ, Suh YP, Dursun I, Li X, da Costa Souza F, Grodzki AC, Cui JY, Lehmler HJ, Lein PJ. Developmental exposure to the Fox River PCB mixture modulates behavior in juvenile mice. Neurotoxicology 2024; 103:146-161. [PMID: 38885884 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2024.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Developmental exposures to PCBs are implicated in the etiology of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). This observation is concerning given the continued presence of PCBs in the human environment and the increasing incidence of NDDs. Previous studies reported that developmental exposure to legacy commercial PCB mixtures (Aroclors) or single PCB congeners found in Aroclors caused NDD-relevant behavioral phenotypes in animal models. However, the PCB congener profile in contemporary human samples is dissimilar to that of the legacy Aroclors, raising the question of whether human-relevant PCB mixtures similarly interfere with normal brain development. To address this question, we assessed the developmental neurotoxicity of the Fox River Mixture (FRM), which was designed to mimic the congener profile identified in fish from the PCB-contaminated Fox River that constitute a primary protein source in the diet of surrounding communities. Adult female C57BL/6 J mouse dams (8-10 weeks old) were exposed to vehicle (peanut oil) or FRM at 0.1, 1.0, or 6.0 mg/kg/d in their diet throughout gestation and lactation, and neurodevelopmental outcomes were assessed in their pups. Ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) and measures of general development were quantified at postnatal day (P) 7, while performance in the spontaneous alternation task and the 3-chambered social approach/social novelty task was assessed on P35. Triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) were quantified in serum collected from the dams when pups were weaned and from pups on P28 and P35. Developmental exposure to FRM did not alter pup weight or body temperature on P7, but USVs were significantly decreased in litters exposed to FRM at 0.1 or 6.0 mg/kg/d in the maternal diet. FRM also impaired male and female pups' performance in the social novelty task. Compared to sex-matched vehicles, significantly decreased social novelty was observed in male and female pups in the 0.1 and 6.0 mg/kg/d dose groups. FRM did not alter performance in the spontaneous alternation or social approach tasks. FRM increased serum T3 levels but decreased serum T4 levels in P28 male pups in the 1.0 and 6.0 mg/kg/d dose groups. In P35 female pups and dams, serum T3 levels decreased in the 6.0 mg/kg/d dose group while T4 levels were not altered. Collectively, these findings suggest that FRM interferes with the development of social communication and social novelty, but not memory, supporting the hypothesis that contemporary PCB exposures pose a risk to the developing brain. FRM had sex, age, and dose-dependent effects on serum thyroid hormone levels that overlapped but did not perfectly align with the FRM effects on behavioral outcomes. These observations suggest that changes in thyroid hormone levels are not likely the major factor underlying the behavioral deficits observed in FRM-exposed animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Wilson
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Youjun P Suh
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ilknur Dursun
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA; Istinye University, School of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Istanbul 34396, Turkey
| | - Xueshu Li
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | | | - Ana Cristina Grodzki
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Julia Y Cui
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Hans-Joachim Lehmler
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Pamela J Lein
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA.
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5
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Di Gesù CM, Buffington SA. The early life exposome and autism risk: a role for the maternal microbiome? Gut Microbes 2024; 16:2385117. [PMID: 39120056 PMCID: PMC11318715 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2024.2385117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are highly heritable, heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by clinical presentation of atypical social, communicative, and repetitive behaviors. Over the past 25 years, hundreds of ASD risk genes have been identified. Many converge on key molecular pathways, from translational control to those regulating synaptic structure and function. Despite these advances, therapeutic approaches remain elusive. Emerging data unearthing the relationship between genetics, microbes, and immunity in ASD suggest an integrative physiology approach could be paramount to delivering therapeutic breakthroughs. Indeed, the advent of large-scale multi-OMIC data acquisition, analysis, and interpretation is yielding an increasingly mechanistic understanding of ASD and underlying risk factors, revealing how genetic susceptibility interacts with microbial genetics, metabolism, epigenetic (re)programming, and immunity to influence neurodevelopment and behavioral outcomes. It is now possible to foresee exciting advancements in the treatment of some forms of ASD that could markedly improve quality of life and productivity for autistic individuals. Here, we highlight recent work revealing how gene X maternal exposome interactions influence risk for ASD, with emphasis on the intrauterine environment and fetal neurodevelopment, host-microbe interactions, and the evolving therapeutic landscape for ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia M. Di Gesù
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Shelly A. Buffington
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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6
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Xu K, Li Z, Qiao J, Wang S, Xie P, Zong Z, Hu C. Persistent organic pollutants exposure and risk of autism spectrum disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 336:122439. [PMID: 37619697 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Accumulating number of epidemiological studies has recently proposed that improvement in the risk of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is associated with persistent organic pollutants (POPs) exposure. However, evidence from current researches is limited and inconsistent. Thus, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the potential associations comprehensively. We systematically and extensively searched two electronic databases (PubMed and EMBASE) from inception to July 3, 2022 and an updated search was performed before submission. Summary odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were derived from stratified random-effects meta-analyses by type of exposure and outcome. We also tested the potential heterogeneity across studies, conducted sensitivity analysis and evaluated publication bias. A total of 20 studies were finally included in our study. Meta-analytical effect estimates indicated a positive association between prenatal exposure to PCB-138, PCB-153 and PCB-170 and an increased risk of ASD, with OR of 1.89 (95% CI = 1.21-2.95, I2 = 0%), 1.61 (95% CI = 1.05-2.47, I2 = 0%) and 1.46 (95% CI = 1.03-2.06, I2 = 0%) respectively. In contrast, PFDA was found inversely associated with the risk of ASD (OR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.52-0.94, I2 = 0%). The level of evidence supporting a link between ASD risk and exposure to PCB-138, PCB-153, PCB-170, and PFDA was respectively categorized as low, low, moderate, and low. In summary, this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that exposure to PCB-138, PCB-153, and PCB-170 correlates with a heightened risk of ASD, with evidence levels rated as "low", "low", and "moderate", respectively. In contrast, PFDA exposure appears to be inversely associated with ASD risk, with a "low" level of supporting evidence. However, due to the limited number of studies available for each exposure and outcome pairing, these results should be interpreted with caution. Sufficiently powered studies are needed to validate our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Xu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Zhuoyan Li
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Jianchao Qiao
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Senzheng Wang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Pinpeng Xie
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Zhiqiang Zong
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Chengyang Hu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, China; Department of Humanistic Medicine, School of Humanistic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, China.
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7
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Westmark CJ. Toward an understanding of the role of the exposome on fragile X phenotypes. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 173:141-170. [PMID: 37993176 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2023.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the leading known monogenetic cause of autism with an estimated 21-50% of FXS individuals meeting autism diagnostic criteria. A critical gap in medical care for persons with autism is an understanding of how environmental exposures and gene-environment interactions affect disease outcomes. Our research indicates more severe neurological and metabolic outcomes (seizures, autism, increased body weight) in mouse and human models of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) as a function of diet. Thus, early-life exposure to chemicals in the diet could cause or exacerbate disease outcomes. Herein, we review the effects of potential dietary toxins, i.e., soy phytoestrogens, glyphosate, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) in FXS and other autism models. The rationale is that potentially toxic chemicals in the diet, particularly infant formula, could contribute to the development and/or severity of ASD and that further study in this area has potential to improve ASD outcomes through dietary modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara J Westmark
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Medical Sciences Center, Room 3619, 1300 University Avenue, Madison, WI, United States; Molecular Environmental Toxicology Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Medical Sciences Center, Room 3619, 1300 University Avenue, Madison, WI, United States.
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8
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Song AY, Kauffman EM, Hamra GB, Dickerson AS, Croen LA, Hertz-Picciotto I, Schmidt RJ, Newschaffer CJ, Fallin MD, Lyall K, Volk HE. Associations of prenatal exposure to a mixture of persistent organic pollutants with social traits and cognitive and adaptive function in early childhood: Findings from the EARLI study. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 229:115978. [PMID: 37116678 PMCID: PMC10314748 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Literature suggests that maternal exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) may influence child neurodevelopment. Evidence linking prenatal POPs and autism spectrum disorder has been inconclusive and few studies have examined the mixture effect of the POPs on autism-related traits. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the associations between prenatal exposure to a mixture of POPs and autism-related traits in children from the Early Autism Risk Longitudinal Investigation study. METHODS Maternal serum concentrations of 17 POPs (11 polychlorinated biphenyls [PCBs], 4 polybrominated diphenyls [PBDEs], and 2 persistent pesticides) in 154 samples collected during pregnancy were included in this analysis. We examined the independent associations of the natural log-transformed POPs with social, cognitive, and behavioral traits at 36 months of age, including Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), Mullen Scales of Early Learning-Early Learning Composite (MSEL-ELC), and Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (VABS) scores, using linear regression models. We applied Bayesian kernel machine regression and quantile g-computation to examine the joint effect and interactions of the POPs. RESULTS Higher ln-PBDE47 was associated with greater deficits in social reciprocity (higher SRS score) (β = 6.39, 95% CI: 1.12, 11.65) whereas higher ln-p,p'-DDE was associated with lower social deficits (β = -8.34, 95% CI: -15.32, -1.37). Positive associations were observed between PCB180 and PCB187 and cognitive (MSEL-ELC) scores (β = 5.68, 95% CI: 0.18, 11.17; β = 4.65, 95% CI: 0.14, 9.17, respectively). Adaptive functioning (VABS) scores were positively associated with PCB170, PCB180, PCB187, PCB196/203, and p,p'-DDE. In the mixture analyses, we did not observe an overall mixture effect of POPs on the quantitative traits. Potential interactions between PBDE99 and other PBDEs were identified in association with MSEL-ELC scores. CONCLUSIONS We observed independent effects of PCB180, PCB187, PBDE47, and p,p' DDE with ASD-related quantitative traits and potential interactions between PBDEs. Our findings highlight the importance of assessing the effect of POPs as a mixture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Y Song
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Wendy Klag Center for Autism & Developmental Disabilities, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | | | - Ghassan B Hamra
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Aisha S Dickerson
- Wendy Klag Center for Autism & Developmental Disabilities, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lisa A Croen
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Irva Hertz-Picciotto
- Department of Public Health Sciences, UC Davis, Davis CA and the UC Davis MIND Institute, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Rebecca J Schmidt
- Department of Public Health Sciences, UC Davis, Davis CA and the UC Davis MIND Institute, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Craig J Newschaffer
- College of Health and Human Development, Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA, USA
| | - M Daniele Fallin
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kristen Lyall
- AJ Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Heather E Volk
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Wendy Klag Center for Autism & Developmental Disabilities, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Spiegelhoff A, Wang K, Ridlon M, Lavery T, Kennedy CL, George S, Stietz KPK. Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) Impact Prostatic Collagen Density and Bladder Volume in Young Adult Mice Exposed during in Utero and Lactational Development. TOXICS 2023; 11:609. [PMID: 37505574 PMCID: PMC10384510 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11070609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are persistent organic pollutants linked to deleterious health outcomes, including voiding dysfunction in developmentally exposed mice. Changes in prostate volume and/or extracellular matrix composition are associated with voiding dysfunction in men and animal models. Whether PCB-induced changes in voiding function in male mice occur in part via alterations to the prostate or an alternate mechanism is unclear. Therefore, we tested whether developmental exposure to the MARBLES PCB mixture altered prostate morphology in young adult offspring. C57Bl/6J female mice were dosed daily with the MARBLES PCB mixture at 0, 0.1, 1 or 6 mg/kg/d for two weeks prior to mating and through gestation and lactation, offspring were collected at 6 weeks of age. Ventral prostate mass was decreased in the 1 mg/kg/d PCB group compared to other PCB groups. There were no PCB-induced changes in prostate smooth muscle thickness, apoptosis, proliferation, or testes mass. PCBs impacted the prostate extracellular matrix; anterior prostate collagen density was decreased in the 1 mg/kg/d PCB group compared to all other groups. Normalized bladder volume was increased in male and female offspring in the 6 mg/kg/d PCB group compared to control. No change in water consumption, bladder mass or bladder smooth muscle thickness accompanied changes in bladder volume. Urine and serum creatinine concentrations were elevated but only in male mice. Together, these results suggest that developmental exposure to PCBs can influence prostate wet weight and prostate/bladder morphology, but PCBs do not promote prostate enlargement. Whether these changes persist throughout adult life and how they contribute to voiding function in animal models and humans is of future interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Spiegelhoff
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Kathy Wang
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Monica Ridlon
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Thomas Lavery
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Conner L Kennedy
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Serena George
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Kimberly P Keil Stietz
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
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10
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Paranjape N, Dean LE, Martinez A, Tjalkens RB, Lehmler HJ, Doorn JA. Structure-Activity Relationship of Lower Chlorinated Biphenyls and Their Human-Relevant Metabolites for Astrocyte Toxicity. Chem Res Toxicol 2023; 36:971-981. [PMID: 37279407 PMCID: PMC10283044 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.3c00095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) is associated with developmental neurotoxicity and neurodegenerative disorders; however, the underlying mechanisms of pathogenesis are unknown. Existing literature has focused mainly on using neurons as a model system to study mechanisms of PCB-mediated neurotoxicity, overlooking the role of glial cells, such as astrocytes. As normal brain function is largely astrocyte-dependent, we hypothesize that astrocytes play an important role in PCB-mediated injury to neurons. We assessed the toxicity of two commercial PCB mixtures, Aroclor 1016 and Aroclor 1254, and a non-Aroclor PCB mixture found in residential air called the Cabinet mixture, all of which contain lower chlorinated PCBs (LC-PCBs) found in indoor and outdoor air. We further assessed the toxicity of five abundant airborne LC-PCBs and their corresponding human-relevant metabolites in vitro models of astrocytes, namely, the C6 cell line and primary astrocytes isolated from Sprague-Dawley rats and C57BL/6 mice. PCB52 and its human-relevant hydroxylated and sulfated metabolites were found to be the most toxic compounds. No significant sex-dependent cell viability differences were observed in rat primary astrocytes. Based on the equilibrium partitioning model, it was predicted that the partitioning of LC-PCBs and their corresponding metabolites in biotic and abiotic compartments of the cell culture system is structure-dependent and that the observed toxicity is consistent with this prediction. This study, for the first time, shows that astrocytes are sensitive targets of LC-PCBs and their human-relevant metabolites and that further research to identify mechanistic targets of PCB exposure in glial cells is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Paranjape
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Experimental Therapeutics, College
of Pharmacy, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, United States
- Department
of Occupational and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, United States
| | - Laura E. Dean
- Department
of Occupational and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, United States
| | - Andres Martinez
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, IIHR-Hydroscience & Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, United States
| | - Ronald B. Tjalkens
- Department
of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, College of Veterinary
Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado
State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80521, United States
| | - Hans-Joachim Lehmler
- Department
of Occupational and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, United States
| | - Jonathan A. Doorn
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Experimental Therapeutics, College
of Pharmacy, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, United States
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11
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Mouat JS, Li X, Neier K, Zhu Y, Mordaunt CE, La Merrill MA, Lehmler HJ, Jones MP, Lein PJ, Schmidt RJ, LaSalle JM. Networks of placental DNA methylation correlate with maternal serum PCB concentrations and child neurodevelopment. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 220:115227. [PMID: 36608759 PMCID: PMC10518186 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gestational exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) has been associated with elevated risk for neurodevelopmental disorders. Placental epigenetics may serve as a potential mechanism of risk or marker of altered placental function. Prior studies have associated differential placental DNA methylation with maternal PCB exposure or with increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, sequencing-based placental methylomes have not previously been tested for simultaneous associations with maternal PCB levels and child neurodevelopmental outcomes. OBJECTIVES We aimed to identify placental DNA methylation patterns associated with maternal PCB levels and child neurodevelopmental outcomes in the high-risk ASD MARBLES cohort. METHODS We measured 209 PCB congeners in 104 maternal serum samples collected at delivery. We identified networks of DNA methylation from 147 placenta samples using the Comethyl R package, which performs weighted gene correlation network analysis for whole genome bisulfite sequencing data. We tested placental DNA methylation modules for association with maternal serum PCB levels, child neurodevelopment, and other participant traits. RESULTS PCBs 153 + 168, 170, 180 + 193, and 187 were detected in over 50% of maternal serum samples and were highly correlated with one another. Consistent with previous findings, maternal age was the strongest predictor of serum PCB levels, alongside year of sample collection, pre-pregnancy BMI, and polyunsaturated fatty acid levels. Twenty seven modules of placental DNA methylation were identified, including five which significantly correlated with one or more PCBs, and four which correlated with child neurodevelopment. Two modules associated with maternal PCB levels as well as child neurodevelopment, and mapped to CSMD1 and AUTS2, genes previously implicated in ASD and identified as differentially methylated regions in mouse brain and placenta following gestational PCB exposure. CONCLUSIONS Placental DNA co-methylation modules were associated with maternal PCBs and child neurodevelopment. Methylation of CSMD1 and AUTS2 could be markers of altered placental function and/or ASD risk following maternal PCB exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia S Mouat
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Perinatal Origins of Disparities Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Genome Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Xueshu Li
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Kari Neier
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Perinatal Origins of Disparities Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Genome Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Yihui Zhu
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Perinatal Origins of Disparities Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Genome Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Charles E Mordaunt
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Perinatal Origins of Disparities Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Genome Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Michele A La Merrill
- Perinatal Origins of Disparities Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Hans-Joachim Lehmler
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Michael P Jones
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Pamela J Lein
- Perinatal Origins of Disparities Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Rebecca J Schmidt
- Perinatal Origins of Disparities Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Janine M LaSalle
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Perinatal Origins of Disparities Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Genome Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
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12
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Keil-Stietz K, Lein PJ. Gene×environment interactions in autism spectrum disorders. Curr Top Dev Biol 2022; 152:221-284. [PMID: 36707213 PMCID: PMC10496028 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2022.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
There is credible evidence that environmental factors influence individual risk and/or severity of autism spectrum disorders (hereafter referred to as autism). While it is likely that environmental chemicals contribute to the etiology of autism via multiple mechanisms, identifying specific environmental factors that confer risk for autism and understanding how they contribute to the etiology of autism has been challenging, in part because the influence of environmental chemicals likely varies depending on the genetic substrate of the exposed individual. Current research efforts are focused on elucidating the mechanisms by which environmental chemicals interact with autism genetic susceptibilities to adversely impact neurodevelopment. The goal is to not only generate insights regarding the pathophysiology of autism, but also inform the development of screening platforms to identify specific environmental factors and gene×environment (G×E) interactions that modify autism risk. Data from such studies are needed to support development of intervention strategies for mitigating the burden of this neurodevelopmental condition on individuals, their families and society. In this review, we discuss environmental chemicals identified as putative autism risk factors and proposed mechanisms by which G×E interactions influence autism risk and/or severity using polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) as an example.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Keil-Stietz
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Veterinary Medicine, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Pamela J Lein
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, CA, United States.
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13
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Kennedy CL, Spiegelhoff A, Lavery T, Wang K, Manuel RSJ, Wang Z, Wildermuth H, Keil Stietz KP. Developmental polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) exposure alters voiding physiology in young adult male and female mice. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL UROLOGY 2022; 10:82-97. [PMID: 35528463 PMCID: PMC9077147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The impact of developmental exposure to environmental chemicals on lower urinary tract function is not well understood, despite the fact that these chemicals could contribute to etiologically complex lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are environmental toxicants known to be detrimental to the central nervous system, but their impact on voiding function in mouse models is not known. Therefore, we test whether developmental exposure to PCBs is capable of altering voiding physiology in young adult mice. C57Bl/6J female mice received a daily oral dose of the MARBLES PCB mixture for two weeks prior to mating and through gestation and lactation. The mixture mimics the profile of PCBs found in a contemporary population of pregnant women. Voiding function was then tested in young adult offspring using void spot assay, uroflowmetry and anesthetized cystometry. PCB effects were sex and dose dependent. Overall, PCBs led to increases in small size urine spots in both sexes with males producing more drop-like voids and greater peak pressure during a voiding cycle while females displayed decreases in void duration and intervoid interval. Together, these results indicate that developmental exposure to PCBs are capable of altering voiding physiology in young adult mice. Further work to identify the underlying mechanisms driving these changes may help develop more effective preventative or therapeutic strategies for LUTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conner L Kennedy
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-MadisonMadison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Audrey Spiegelhoff
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-MadisonMadison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Thomas Lavery
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-MadisonMadison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Kathy Wang
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-MadisonMadison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Robbie SJ Manuel
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-MadisonMadison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Zunyi Wang
- Department of Surgical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-MadisonMadison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Hannah Wildermuth
- Department of Surgical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-MadisonMadison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Kimberly P Keil Stietz
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-MadisonMadison, WI 53706, USA
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14
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Association of prenatal exposure to dioxin-like compounds, polychlorinated biphenyl, and methylmercury with event-related brain potentials in school-aged children: the Hokkaido study. Neurotoxicology 2022; 91:11-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2022.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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15
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Mouat JS, LaSalle JM. The Promise of DNA Methylation in Understanding Multigenerational Factors in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Front Genet 2022; 13:831221. [PMID: 35242170 PMCID: PMC8886225 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.831221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impairments in social reciprocity and communication, restrictive interests, and repetitive behaviors. Most cases of ASD arise from a confluence of genetic susceptibility and environmental risk factors, whose interactions can be studied through epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation. While various parental factors are known to increase risk for ASD, several studies have indicated that grandparental and great-grandparental factors may also contribute. In animal studies, gestational exposure to certain environmental factors, such as insecticides, medications, and social stress, increases risk for altered behavioral phenotypes in multiple subsequent generations. Changes in DNA methylation, gene expression, and chromatin accessibility often accompany these altered behavioral phenotypes, with changes often appearing in genes that are important for neurodevelopment or have been previously implicated in ASD. One hypothesized mechanism for these phenotypic and methylation changes includes the transmission of DNA methylation marks at individual chromosomal loci from parent to offspring and beyond, called multigenerational epigenetic inheritance. Alternatively, intermediate metabolic phenotypes in the parental generation may confer risk from the original grandparental exposure to risk for ASD in grandchildren, mediated by DNA methylation. While hypothesized mechanisms require further research, the potential for multigenerational epigenetics assessments of ASD risk has implications for precision medicine as the field attempts to address the variable etiology and clinical signs of ASD by incorporating genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. In this review, we discuss the promise of multigenerational DNA methylation investigations in understanding the complex etiology of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia S Mouat
- LaSalle Laboratory, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Perinatal Origins of Disparities Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- MIND Institute, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Genome Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Janine M LaSalle
- LaSalle Laboratory, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Perinatal Origins of Disparities Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- MIND Institute, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Genome Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
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16
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Keil Stietz KP, Sethi S, Klocke CR, de Ruyter TE, Wilson MD, Pessah IN, Lein PJ. Sex and Genotype Modulate the Dendritic Effects of Developmental Exposure to a Human-Relevant Polychlorinated Biphenyls Mixture in the Juvenile Mouse. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:766802. [PMID: 34924936 PMCID: PMC8678536 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.766802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
While many neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are thought to result from interactions between environmental and genetic risk factors, the identification of specific gene-environment interactions that influence NDD risk remains a critical data gap. We tested the hypothesis that polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) interact with human mutations that alter the fidelity of neuronal Ca2+ signaling to confer NDD risk. To test this, we used three transgenic mouse lines that expressed human mutations known to alter Ca2+ signals in neurons: (1) gain-of-function mutation in ryanodine receptor-1 (T4826I-RYR1); (2) CGG-repeat expansion in the 5′ non-coding portion of the fragile X mental retardation gene 1 (FMR1); and (3) a double mutant (DM) that expressed both mutations. Transgenic and wildtype (WT) mice were exposed throughout gestation and lactation to the MARBLES PCB mix at 0.1, 1, or 6 mg/kg in the maternal diet. The MARBLES mix simulates the relative proportions of the twelve most abundant PCB congeners found in serum from pregnant women at increased risk for having a child with an NDD. Using Golgi staining, the effect of developmental PCB exposure on dendritic arborization of pyramidal neurons in the CA1 hippocampus and somatosensory cortex of male and female WT mice was compared to pyramidal neurons from transgenic mice. A multilevel linear mixed-effects model identified a main effect of dose driven by increased dendritic arborization of cortical neurons in the 1 mg/kg PCB dose group. Subsequent analyses with genotypes indicated that the MARBLES PCB mixture had no effect on the dendritic arborization of hippocampal neurons in WT mice of either sex, but significantly increased dendritic arborization of cortical neurons of WT males in the 6 mg/kg PCB dose group. Transgene expression increased sensitivity to the impact of developmental PCB exposure on dendritic arborization in a sex-, and brain region-dependent manner. In conclusion, developmental exposure to PCBs present in the gestational environment of at-risk humans interfered with normal dendritic morphogenesis in the developing mouse brain in a sex-, genotype- and brain region-dependent manner. Overall, these observations provide proof-of-principle evidence that PCBs interact with heritable mutations to modulate a neurodevelopmental outcome of relevance to NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly P Keil Stietz
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Sunjay Sethi
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Carolyn R Klocke
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Tryssa E de Ruyter
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Machelle D Wilson
- Clinical and Translational Science Center, Division of Biostatistics, Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Isaac N Pessah
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Pamela J Lein
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
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17
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Sethi S, Keil Stietz KP, Valenzuela AE, Klocke CR, Silverman JL, Puschner B, Pessah IN, Lein PJ. Developmental Exposure to a Human-Relevant Polychlorinated Biphenyl Mixture Causes Behavioral Phenotypes That Vary by Sex and Genotype in Juvenile Mice Expressing Human Mutations That Modulate Neuronal Calcium. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:766826. [PMID: 34938155 PMCID: PMC8685320 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.766826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are putative environmental risks for neurodevelopmental disorders. Here, we tested two hypotheses: (1) developmental exposure to a human-relevant PCB mixture causes behavioral phenotypes relevant to neurodevelopmental disorders; and (2) expression of human mutations that dysregulate neuronal Ca2+ homeostasis influence sensitivity to behavioral effects of developmental PCB exposures. To test these hypotheses, we used mice that expressed a gain-of-function mutation (T4826I) in ryanodine receptor 1 (RYR1), the X-linked fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) CGG repeat expansion or both mutations (double mutant; DM). Transgenic mice and wildtype (WT) mice were exposed to the MARBLES PCB mix at 0, 0.1, 1, and 6 mg/kg/day in the maternal diet throughout gestation and lactation. The MARBLES PCB mix simulates the relative proportions of the 12 most abundant PCB congeners found in the serum of pregnant women at increased risk for having a child with a neurodevelopmental disorder. We assessed ultrasonic vocalizations at postnatal day 7 (P7), spontaneous repetitive behaviors at P25-P30, and sociability at P27-P32. Developmental PCB exposure reduced ultrasonic vocalizations in WT litters in all dose groups, but had no effect on ultrasonic vocalizations in transgenic litters. Developmental PCB exposure significantly increased self-grooming and decreased sociability in WT males in the 0.1 mg/kg dose group, but had no effect on WT females in any dose group. Genotype alone influenced ultrasonic vocalizations, self-grooming and to a lesser extent sociability. Genotype alone also influenced effects of PCBs on sociability. PCB levels in the brain tissue of pups increased in a dose-dependent manner, but within any dose group did not differ between genotypes. In summary, developmental PCB exposure phenocopied social behavior phenotypes observed in mice expressing human mutations that modify intracellular Ca2+ dynamics, and expression of these mutations alleviated PCB effects on ultrasonic vocalizations and repetitive behavior, and modified the dose-response relationships and sex-dependent effects of PCB effects on social behavior. These findings suggest that: (1) developmental PCB exposure causes behavioral phenotypes that vary by sex and genotype; and (2) sex-specific responses to environmental factors may contribute to sex biases in the prevalence and/or severity of neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunjay Sethi
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Kimberly P. Keil Stietz
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Anthony E. Valenzuela
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Carolyn R. Klocke
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Jill L. Silverman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- The MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Birgit Puschner
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Isaac N. Pessah
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- The MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Pamela J. Lein
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- The MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
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18
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Kennedy CL, Spiegelhoff A, Wang K, Lavery T, Nunez A, Manuel R, Hillers-Ziemer L, Arendt LM, Stietz KPK. The Bladder Is a Novel Target of Developmental Polychlorinated Biphenyl Exposure Linked to Increased Inflammatory Cells in the Bladder of Young Mice. TOXICS 2021; 9:toxics9090214. [PMID: 34564365 PMCID: PMC8473463 DOI: 10.3390/toxics9090214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Bladder inflammation is associated with several lower urinary tract symptoms that greatly reduce quality of life, yet contributing factors are not completely understood. Environmental chemicals are plausible mediators of inflammatory reactions within the bladder. Here, we examine whether developmental exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) leads to changes in immune cells within the bladder of young mice. Female mice were exposed to an environmentally relevant mixture of PCBs through gestation and lactation, and bladders were collected from offspring at postnatal day (P) 28-31. We identify several dose- and sex-dependent PCB effects in the bladder. The lowest concentration of PCB (0.1 mg/kg/d) increased CD45+ hematolymphoid immune cells in both sexes. While PCBs had no effect on CD79b+ B cells or CD3+ T cells, PCBs (0.1 mg/kg/d) did increase F4/80+ macrophages particularly in female bladder. Collagen density was also examined to determine whether inflammatory events coincide with changes in the stromal extracellular matrix. PCBs (0.1 mg/kg/d) decreased collagen density in female bladder compared to control. PCBs also increased the number of cells undergoing cell division predominantly in male bladder. These results implicate perturbations to the immune system in relation to PCB effects on the bladder. Future study to define the underlying mechanisms could help understand how environmental factors can be risk factors for lower urinary tract symptoms.
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Influence of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Activating Environmental Pollutants on Autism Spectrum Disorder. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179258. [PMID: 34502168 PMCID: PMC8431328 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an umbrella term that includes many different disorders that affect the development, communication, and behavior of an individual. Prevalence of ASD has risen exponentially in the past couple of decades. ASD has a complex etiology and traditionally recognized risk factors only account for a small percentage of incidence of the disorder. Recent studies have examined factors beyond the conventional risk factors (e.g., environmental pollution). There has been an increase in air pollution since the beginning of industrialization. Most environmental pollutants cause toxicities through activation of several cellular receptors, such as the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR)/cytochrome P450 (CYPs) pathway. There is little research on the involvement of AhR in contributing to ASD. Although a few reviews have discussed and addressed the link between increased prevalence of ASD and exposure to environmental pollutants, the mechanism governing this effect, specifically the role of AhR in ASD development and the molecular mechanisms involved, have not been discussed or reviewed before. This article reviews the state of knowledge regarding the impact of the AhR/CYP pathway modulation upon exposure to environmental pollutants on ASD risk, incidence, and development. It also explores the molecular mechanisms involved, such as epigenesis and polymorphism. In addition, the review explores possible new AhR-mediated mechanisms of several drugs used for treatment of ASD, such as sulforaphane, resveratrol, haloperidol, and metformin.
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20
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Wang Y, Hu C, Fang T, Jin Y, Wu R. Perspective on prenatal polychlorinated biphenyl exposure and the development of the progeny nervous system (Review). Int J Mol Med 2021; 48:150. [PMID: 34132363 PMCID: PMC8219518 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2021.4983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The developmental origins of health and disease concept illustrates that exposure in early life to various factors may affect the offspring's long-term susceptibility to disease. During development, the nervous system is sensitive and vulnerable to the environmental insults. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which are divided into dioxin-like (DL-PCBs) and non-dioxin-like PCBs (NDL-PCBs), are synthetic persistent environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals. The toxicological mechanisms of DL-PCBs have been associated with the activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor and NDL-PCBs have been associated with ryanodine receptor-mediated calcium ion channels, which affect neuronal migration, promote dendritic growth and alter neuronal connectivity. In addition, PCB accumulation in the placenta destroys the fetal placental unit and affects endocrine function, particularly thyroid hormones and the dopaminergic system, leading to neuroendocrine disorders. However, epidemiological investigations have not achieved a consistent result in different study cohorts. The present review summarizes the epidemiological differences and possible mechanisms of the effects of intrauterine PCB exposure on neurological development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinfeng Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, P.R. China
| | - Changchang Hu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, P.R. China
| | - Tao Fang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, P.R. China
| | - Yang Jin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, P.R. China
| | - Ruijin Wu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, P.R. China
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21
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Mehri F, Bashirian S, Khazaei S, Jenabi E. Association between pesticide and polychlorinated biphenyl exposure during pregnancy and autism spectrum disorder among children: a meta-analysis. Clin Exp Pediatr 2021; 64:286-292. [PMID: 33902270 PMCID: PMC8181020 DOI: 10.3345/cep.2020.00864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effect of exposure to environmental factors on autism spectrum disorders (ASD), especially during pregnancy, is unclear. PURPOSE This meta-analysis investigated the association between exposure to pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) during pregnancy and ASD risk among children. METHODS We searched Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and ProQuest for articles published through September 2019. Random-effects models were used to examine the association among studies using pooled odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI). I2 tests were used to measure interstudy heterogeneity. RESULTS The pooled OR indicated a significant association between PCB and pesticide exposure during pregnancy and ASD risk among children (OR, 1.80; 95% CI, 1.26-2.34; and OR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.02-1.39), respectively. CONCLUSION Findings of the present study indicate that exposure to pesticides and PCBs during pregnancy may affect the risk of ASD among children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Mehri
- Nutrition Health Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Saeid Bashirian
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Salman Khazaei
- Department of Epidemiology, Hamadan University of medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Ensiyeh Jenabi
- Autism Spectrum disorders Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
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22
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Latchney SE, Majewska AK. Persistent organic pollutants at the synapse: Shared phenotypes and converging mechanisms of developmental neurotoxicity. Dev Neurobiol 2021; 81:623-652. [PMID: 33851516 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The developing nervous system is sensitive to environmental and physiological perturbations in part due to its protracted period of prenatal and postnatal development. Epidemiological and experimental studies link developmental exposures to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) including polychlorinated biphenyls, polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, and benzo(a)pyrene to increased risk for neurodevelopmental disorders in children. Mechanistic studies reveal that many of the complex cellular processes that occur during sensitive periods of rapid brain development are cellular targets for developmental neurotoxicants. One area of research interest has focused on synapse formation and plasticity, processes that involve the growth and retraction of dendrites and dendritic spines. For each chemical discussed in this review, we summarize the morphological and electrophysiological data that provide evidence that developmental POP exposure produces long-lasting effects on dendritic morphology, spine formation, glutamatergic and GABAergic signaling systems, and synaptic transmission. We also discuss shared intracellular mechanisms, with a focus on calcium and thyroid hormone homeostasis, by which these chemicals act to modify synapses. We conclude our review highlighting research gaps that merit consideration when characterizing synaptic pathology elicited by chemical exposure. These gaps include low-dose and nonmonotonic dose-response effects, the temporal relationship between dendritic growth, spine formation, and synaptic activity, excitation-inhibition balance, hormonal effects, and the need for more studies in females to identify sex differences. By identifying converging pathological mechanisms elicited by POP exposure at the synapse, we can define future research directions that will advance our understanding of these chemicals on synapse structure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Latchney
- Department of Biology, St. Mary's College of Maryland, St. Mary's City, MD, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Ania K Majewska
- Department of Neuroscience, Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.,Center for Visual Science, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
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23
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Gileadi TE, Swamy AK, Hore Z, Horswell S, Ellegood J, Mohan C, Mizuno K, Lundebye AK, Giese KP, Stockinger B, Hogstrand C, Lerch JP, Fernandes C, Basson MA. Effects of Low-Dose Gestational TCDD Exposure on Behavior and on Hippocampal Neuron Morphology and Gene Expression in Mice. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2021; 129:57002. [PMID: 33956508 PMCID: PMC8101924 DOI: 10.1289/ehp7352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is a persistent and toxic environmental pollutant. Gestational exposure to TCDD has been linked to cognitive and motor deficits, and increased incidence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) traits in children. Most animal studies of these neurodevelopmental effects involve acute TCDD exposure, which does not model typical exposure in humans. OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to establish a dietary low-dose gestational TCDD exposure protocol and performed an initial characterization of the effects on offspring behavior, neurodevelopmental phenotypes, and gene expression. METHODS Throughout gestation, pregnant C57BL/6J mice were fed a diet containing a low dose of TCDD (9 ng TCDD/kg body weight per day) or a control diet. The offspring were tested in a battery of behavioral tests, and structural brain alterations were investigated by magnetic resonance imaging. The dendritic morphology of pyramidal neurons in the hippocampal Cornu Ammonis (CA)1 area was analyzed. RNA sequencing was performed on hippocampi of postnatal day 14 TCDD-exposed and control offspring. RESULTS TCDD-exposed females displayed subtle deficits in motor coordination and reversal learning. Volumetric difference between diet groups were observed in regions of the hippocampal formation, mammillary bodies, and cerebellum, alongside higher dendritic arborization of pyramidal neurons in the hippocampal CA1 region of TCDD-exposed females. RNA-seq analysis identified 405 differentially expressed genes in the hippocampus, enriched for genes with functions in regulation of microtubules, axon guidance, extracellular matrix, and genes regulated by SMAD3. DISCUSSION Exposure to 9 ng TCDD/kg body weight per day throughout gestation was sufficient to cause specific behavioral and structural brain phenotypes in offspring. Our data suggest that alterations in SMAD3-regulated microtubule polymerization in the developing postnatal hippocampus may lead to an abnormal morphology of neuronal dendrites that persists into adulthood. These findings show that environmental low-dose gestational exposure to TCDD can have significant, long-term impacts on brain development and function. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP7352.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talia E. Gileadi
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Abhyuday K. Swamy
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Zoe Hore
- Social, Genetic & Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Stuart Horswell
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Jacob Ellegood
- Mouse Imaging Centre (MICe), Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Conor Mohan
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Keiko Mizuno
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | | | - K. Peter Giese
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | | | | | - Jason P. Lerch
- Mouse Imaging Centre (MICe), Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Cathy Fernandes
- Social, Genetic & Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - M. Albert Basson
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, King’s College London, London, UK
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King’s College London, London, UK
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24
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Keil Stietz KP, Kennedy CL, Sethi S, Valenzuela A, Nunez A, Wang K, Wang Z, Wang P, Spiegelhoff A, Puschner B, Bjorling DE, Lein PJ. In utero and lactational PCB exposure drives anatomic changes in the juvenile mouse bladder. Curr Res Toxicol 2021; 2:1-18. [PMID: 34337439 PMCID: PMC8317607 DOI: 10.1016/j.crtox.2021.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Bladder dysfunction, including incontinence, difficulty emptying the bladder, or urgency to urinate is a pervasive health and quality of life concern. However, risk factors for developing these symptoms are not completely understood, and the influence of exposure to environmental chemicals, especially during development, on the formation and function of the bladder is understudied. Environmental contaminants such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are known to pose a risk to the developing brain; however, their influence on the development of peripheral target organs, such as bladder, are unknown. To address this data gap, C57Bl/6J mouse dams were exposed to an environmentally-relevant PCB mixture at 0, 0.1, 1 or 6 mg/kg daily beginning two weeks prior to mating and continuing through gestation and lactation. Bladders were collected from offspring at postnatal days (P) 28-31. PCB concentrations were detected in bladders in a dose-dependent manner. PCB effects on the bladder were sex- and dose-dependent. Overall, PCB effects were observed in male, but not female, bladders. PCBs increased bladder volume and suburothelial βIII-tubulin-positive nerve density compared to vehicle control. A subset of these nerves were sensory peptidergic axons indicated by increased calcitonin gene-related protein (CGRP) positive nerve fibers in mice exposed to the highest PCB dose compared to the lowest PCB dose. PCB-induced increased nerve density was also positively correlated with the number of mast cells in the bladder, suggesting inflammation may be involved. There were no detectable changes in epithelial composition or apoptosis as indicated by expression of cleaved caspase 3, suggesting PCBs do not cause overt toxicity. Bladder volume changes were not accompanied by changes in bladder mass or epithelial thickness, indicating that obstruction was not likely involved. Together, these results are the first to suggest that following developmental exposure, PCBs can distribute to the bladder and alter neuroanatomic development and bladder volume in male mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly P. Keil Stietz
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California-Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, CA, USA,Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Veterinary Medicine, Madison, WI, USA,Corresponding author at: Department of Comparative Biosciences University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 Linden Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
| | - Conner L. Kennedy
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Veterinary Medicine, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Sunjay Sethi
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California-Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Anthony Valenzuela
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California-Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Alexandra Nunez
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Veterinary Medicine, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kathy Wang
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Veterinary Medicine, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Zunyi Wang
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Veterinary Medicine, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Peiqing Wang
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Veterinary Medicine, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Audrey Spiegelhoff
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Veterinary Medicine, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Birgit Puschner
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California-Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Dale E. Bjorling
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Veterinary Medicine, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Pamela J. Lein
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California-Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
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Goodman M, Li J, Flanders WD, Mahood D, Anthony LG, Zhang Q, LaKind JS. Epidemiology of PCBs and neurodevelopment: Systematic assessment of multiplicity and completeness of reporting. GLOBAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gloepi.2020.100040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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26
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Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs): Risk Factors for Autism Spectrum Disorder? TOXICS 2020; 8:toxics8030070. [PMID: 32957475 PMCID: PMC7560399 DOI: 10.3390/toxics8030070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) includes a group of multifactorial neurodevelopmental disorders defined clinically by core deficits in social reciprocity and communication, restrictive interests and repetitive behaviors. ASD affects one in 54 children in the United States, one in 89 children in Europe, and one in 277 children in Asia, with an estimated worldwide prevalence of 1-2%. While there is increasing consensus that ASD results from complex gene x environment interactions, the identity of specific environmental risk factors and the mechanisms by which environmental and genetic factors interact to determine individual risk remain critical gaps in our understanding of ASD etiology. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are ubiquitous environmental contaminants that have been linked to altered neurodevelopment in humans. Preclinical studies demonstrate that PCBs modulate signaling pathways implicated in ASD and phenocopy the effects of ASD risk genes on critical morphometric determinants of neuronal connectivity, such as dendritic arborization. Here, we review human and experimental evidence identifying PCBs as potential risk factors for ASD and discuss the potential for PCBs to influence not only core symptoms of ASD, but also comorbidities commonly associated with ASD, via effects on the central and peripheral nervous systems, and/or peripheral target tissues, using bladder dysfunction as an example. We also discuss critical data gaps in the literature implicating PCBs as ASD risk factors. Unlike genetic factors, which are currently irreversible, environmental factors are modifiable risks. Therefore, data confirming PCBs as risk factors for ASD may suggest rational approaches for the primary prevention of ASD in genetically susceptible individuals.
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27
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Cheroni C, Caporale N, Testa G. Autism spectrum disorder at the crossroad between genes and environment: contributions, convergences, and interactions in ASD developmental pathophysiology. Mol Autism 2020; 11:69. [PMID: 32912338 PMCID: PMC7488083 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-020-00370-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The complex pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorder encompasses interactions between genetic and environmental factors. On the one hand, hundreds of genes, converging at the functional level on selective biological domains such as epigenetic regulation and synaptic function, have been identified to be either causative or risk factors of autism. On the other hand, exposure to chemicals that are widespread in the environment, such as endocrine disruptors, has been associated with adverse effects on human health, including neurodevelopmental disorders. Interestingly, experimental results suggest an overlap in the regulatory pathways perturbed by genetic mutations and environmental factors, depicting convergences and complex interplays between genetic susceptibility and toxic insults. The pervasive nature of chemical exposure poses pivotal challenges for neurotoxicological studies, regulatory agencies, and policy makers. This highlights an emerging need of developing new integrative models, including biomonitoring, epidemiology, experimental, and computational tools, able to capture real-life scenarios encompassing the interaction between chronic exposure to mixture of substances and individuals' genetic backgrounds. In this review, we address the intertwined roles of genetic lesions and environmental insults. Specifically, we outline the transformative potential of stem cell models, coupled with omics analytical approaches at increasingly single cell resolution, as converging tools to experimentally dissect the pathogenic mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental disorders, as well as to improve developmental neurotoxicology risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Cheroni
- High Definition Disease Modelling Lab, Stem Cell and Organoid Epigenetics, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy.
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | - Nicolò Caporale
- High Definition Disease Modelling Lab, Stem Cell and Organoid Epigenetics, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy.
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
- Human Technopole, Via Cristina Belgioioso 171, Milan, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Testa
- High Definition Disease Modelling Lab, Stem Cell and Organoid Epigenetics, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy.
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
- Human Technopole, Via Cristina Belgioioso 171, Milan, Italy.
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28
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Bach MA, Samms-Vaughan M, Hessabi M, Bressler J, Lee M, Zhang J, Shakespeare-Pellington S, Grove ML, Loveland KA, Rahbar MH. Association of Polychlorinated Biphenyls and Organochlorine Pesticides with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Jamaican Children. RESEARCH IN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS 2020; 76:101587. [PMID: 32661462 PMCID: PMC7357892 DOI: 10.1016/j.rasd.2020.101587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine (OC) pesticides are suspected to play a role in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). OBJECTIVES To investigate associations of PCBs and OC pesticides with ASD in Jamaican children and explore possible interaction between PCBs or OC pesticides with glutathione S-transferase (GST) genes (GSTT1, GSTM1, GSTP1) in relation to ASD. METHODS Participants included n=169 age- and sex-matched case-control pairs of Jamaican children 2-8 years old. Socioeconomic status and food frequency data were self-reported by the parents/guardians. Blood from each participant was analyzed for 100 PCB congeners and 17 OC pesticides and genotyped for three GST genes. PCBs and OC pesticides concentrations below the limit of detection (LoD) were replaced with (LoD/√2). We used conditional logistic regression (CLR) models to assess associations of PCBs and OC pesticides with ASD, individually or interactively with GST genes (GSTT1, GSTM1, GSTP1). RESULTS We found inverse associations of PCB-153 [adjusted MOR (95% CI) = 0.44 (0.23-0.86)] and PCB-180 [adjusted MOR (95% CI) = 0.52 (0.28-0.95)] with ASD. When adjusted for covariates in a CLR the interaction between GSTM1 and PCB-153 became significant (P < 0.01). DISCUSSION Differences in diet between ASD and typically developing control groups may play a role in the observed findings of lower concentrations of PCB-153 and PCB-180 in individuals with ASD than in controls. Considering the limited sample size and high proportion of concentrations below the LoD, these results should be interpreted with caution but warrant further investigation into associations of PCBs and OC pesticides with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- MacKinsey A. Bach
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Biostatistics/Epidemiology/Research Design (BERD) core, Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences (CCTS), The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Maureen Samms-Vaughan
- Department of Child & Adolescent Health, The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona Campus, Kingston, Jamaica
| | - Manouchehr Hessabi
- Biostatistics/Epidemiology/Research Design (BERD) core, Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences (CCTS), The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Jan Bressler
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Human Genetics Center, Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - MinJae Lee
- Division of Biostatistics, Department of Population & Data Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA
| | - Jing Zhang
- Biostatistics/Epidemiology/Research Design (BERD) core, Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences (CCTS), The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Biostatistics & Data Science, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | - Megan L. Grove
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Human Genetics Center, Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Katherine A. Loveland
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77054, USA
| | - Mohammad H. Rahbar
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Biostatistics/Epidemiology/Research Design (BERD) core, Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences (CCTS), The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Division of Clinical and Translational Sciences, Department of Internal Medicine, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Corresponding Author: Mohammad H. Rahbar, PhD, 6410 Fannin Street, Suite 1100.05, UT Professional Building, Houston, TX 77030, USA. Phone: (713)500-7901. Fax: (713)500-0766.
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29
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Klocke C, Sethi S, Lein PJ. The developmental neurotoxicity of legacy vs. contemporary polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs): similarities and differences. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:8885-8896. [PMID: 31713823 PMCID: PMC7220795 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-06723-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Although banned from production for decades, PCBs remain a significant risk to human health. A primary target of concern is the developing brain. Epidemiological studies link PCB exposures in utero or during infancy to increased risk of neuropsychiatric deficits in children. Nonclinical studies of legacy congeners found in PCB mixtures synthesized prior to the ban on PCB production suggest that non-dioxin-like (NDL) congeners are predominantly responsible for the developmental neurotoxicity associated with PCB exposures. Mechanistic studies suggest that NDL PCBs alter neurodevelopment via ryanodine receptor-dependent effects on dendritic arborization. Lightly chlorinated congeners, which were not present in the industrial mixtures synthesized prior to the ban on PCB production, have emerged as contemporary environmental contaminants, but there is a paucity of data regarding their potential developmental neurotoxicity. PCB 11, a prevalent contemporary congener, is found in the serum of children and their mothers, as well as in the serum of pregnant women at increased risk for having a child diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD). Recent data demonstrates that PCB 11 modulates neuronal morphogenesis via mechanisms that are convergent with and divergent from those implicated in the developmental neurotoxicity of legacy NDL PCBs. This review summarizes these data and discusses their relevance to adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Klocke
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, 1089 Veterinary Medicine Drive, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Sunjay Sethi
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, 1089 Veterinary Medicine Drive, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Pamela J Lein
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, 1089 Veterinary Medicine Drive, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
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30
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Klocke C, Lein PJ. Evidence Implicating Non-Dioxin-Like Congeners as the Key Mediators of Polychlorinated Biphenyl (PCB) Developmental Neurotoxicity. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E1013. [PMID: 32033061 PMCID: PMC7037228 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21031013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite being banned from production for decades, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) continue to pose a significant risk to human health. This is due to not only the continued release of legacy PCBs from PCB-containing equipment and materials manufactured prior to the ban on PCB production, but also the inadvertent production of PCBs as byproducts of contemporary pigment and dye production. Evidence from human and animal studies clearly identifies developmental neurotoxicity as a primary endpoint of concern associated with PCB exposures. However, the relative role(s) of specific PCB congeners in mediating the adverse effects of PCBs on the developing nervous system, and the mechanism(s) by which PCBs disrupt typical neurodevelopment remain outstanding questions. New questions are also emerging regarding the potential developmental neurotoxicity of lower chlorinated PCBs that were not present in the legacy commercial PCB mixtures, but constitute a significant proportion of contemporary human PCB exposures. Here, we review behavioral and mechanistic data obtained from experimental models as well as recent epidemiological studies that suggest the non-dioxin-like (NDL) PCBs are primarily responsible for the developmental neurotoxicity associated with PCBs. We also discuss emerging data demonstrating the potential for non-legacy, lower chlorinated PCBs to cause adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. Molecular targets, the relevance of PCB interactions with these targets to neurodevelopmental disorders, and critical data gaps are addressed as well.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pamela J. Lein
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
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31
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Pessah IN, Lein PJ, Seegal RF, Sagiv SK. Neurotoxicity of polychlorinated biphenyls and related organohalogens. Acta Neuropathol 2019; 138:363-387. [PMID: 30976975 PMCID: PMC6708608 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-019-01978-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Halogenated organic compounds are pervasive in natural and built environments. Despite restrictions on the production of many of these compounds in most parts of the world through the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), many "legacy" compounds, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), are routinely detected in human tissues where they continue to pose significant health risks to highly exposed and susceptible populations. A major concern is developmental neurotoxicity, although impacts on neurodegenerative outcomes have also been noted. Here, we review human studies of prenatal and adult exposures to PCBs and describe the state of knowledge regarding outcomes across domains related to cognition (e.g., IQ, language, memory, learning), attention, behavioral regulation and executive function, and social behavior, including traits related to attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). We also review current understanding of molecular mechanisms underpinning these associations, with a focus on dopaminergic neurotransmission, thyroid hormone disruption, calcium dyshomeostasis, and oxidative stress. Finally, we briefly consider contemporary sources of organohalogens that may pose human health risks via mechanisms of neurotoxicity common to those ascribed to PCBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac N Pessah
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, 1089 VM3B, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
| | - Pamela J Lein
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, 1089 VM3B, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Richard F Seegal
- Professor Emeritus, School of Public Health, University at Albany, Rensselaer, NY, USA
| | - Sharon K Sagiv
- Center for Environmental Research and Children's Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
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