Influence of vitamin C on bisphenol A, nonylphenol and octylphenol induced oxidative damages in liver of male rats

Exposure to environmentally relevant phthalate mixture during pregnancy alters the physical and hemato-biochemical parameters in Black Bengal goats

Several environmental pollutants, mostly chemicals and plasticizers, have an effect on the reproduction of small ruminants, causing abortion, delayed estrus, and decreased fertility. Phthalates are common in our environment and have been identified as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). The research work investigated the impact of dietary exposure to a phthalate mixture on physical and hemato-biochemical parameters in pregnant Black Bengal (BB) goats. A total of 20 clinically healthy, 1-2 months pregnant, aged 6-8 months with a body weight of 10-12 kg BB goats were collected and divided into two (n = 10) groups. The treatment group received a standard goat ration with a combination of different phthalates mixture while the control group was provided the same ration with the vehicle of aphthalatemixture until parturition. The physical parameters were measured with appropriate tools and blood samples were collected for hemato-biochemical tests. The results showed that the physiological parameters (body condition score, respiration rate and heart rate) were significantly (P < 0.05) reduced in phthalate-exposed goats without altering rectal temperature and rumen motility. The hematological parameters: RBC count, WBC count, hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit values and RBC indices were significantly (P < 0.05) lower in phthalate-exposed goats. Phthalate-exposed BB goats had significantly (P < 0.05) higher neutrophil and lower lymphocyte counts. Serum glucose, total protein, albumin and total cholesterol levels were significantly (P < 0.05) lower in phthalate-exposed BB goats but higher the values of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels in treated BB goats. It may be concluded that exposure to a phthalate mixture during pregnancy alters the physical, hematological and biochemical parameters in BB goats.

Ameliorative effect of vitamin E and selenium against bisphenol A-induced toxicity in spinal cord and submandibular salivary glands of adult male albino rats

Bisphenol A (BPA) used in plastic industry. This study evaluate ameliorative effect of vitamin E and selenium in combating BPA toxicity in spinal cord (SC) and submandibular glands (SMGs). Thirty rats divided into three groups [Group I, controls; Group II, BPA orally (25 mg/kg) three times a week, 60 days; Group III, BPA (25 mg/kg) plus vitamin E and selenium in water (1 ml/L/day)]. By histopathological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical investigations. Bisphenol A group showed degenerative alterations. SC gray matter showed pyknotic nuclei and white matter revealed neuropil degeneration. Myelinated fibers showed dispersed myelin. SMGs, exhibited vacuolated cytoplasm in acinar cells. Intense glial fibrillary acidic protein in SC and strong proliferating cell nuclear antigen in acinar and ductal cell nuclei of SMGs. Malondialdehyde elevated in SC and catalase decreased in SMG. Group III, SC and SMG revealed partial recovery. Vitamin E and selenium displayed protective effects against BPA toxicity in SC and SMGs.

Vitamin E (α-Tocopherol) Does Not Ameliorate the Toxic Effect of Bisphenol S on the Metabolic Analytes and Pancreas Histoarchitecture of Diabetic Rats

This study investigated whether the coadministration of vitamin E (VitE) diminishes the harmful effects provoked by plasticizer bisphenol S (BPS) in the serum metabolites related to hepatic and renal metabolism, as well as the endocrine pancreatic function in diabetic male Wistar rats. Rats were divided into five groups (n = 5-6); the first group was healthy rats (Ctrl group). The other four groups were diabetic rats induced with 45 mg/kg bw of streptozotocin: Ctrl-D (diabetic control); VitE-D (100 mg/kg bw/d of VitE); BPS-D (100 mg/kg bw/d of BPS); The animals from the VitE + BPS-D group were administered 100 mg/kg bw/d of VitE + 100 mg/kg bw/d of BPS. All compounds were administered orally for 30 days. Body weight, biochemical assays, urinalysis, glucose tolerance test, pancreas histopathology, proximate chemical analysis in feces, and the activity of antioxidants in rat serum were assessed. The coadministration of VitE + BPS produced weight losses, increases in 14 serum analytes, and degeneration in the pancreas. Therefore, the VitE + BPS coadministration did not have a protective effect versus the harmful impact of BPS or the diabetic metabolic state; on the contrary, it partially aggravated the damage produced by the BPS. VitE is likely to have an additive effect on the toxicity of BPS.

Zinc Deficiency Exacerbates Bisphenol A-Induced Hepatic and Renal Damage: Delineation of Molecular Mechanisms

Zinc (Zn) plays an important role in the maintenance of redox status in the biological system. Zn deficiency has been found to be associated with negative effects on the functioning of many organ systems, including hepatic and renal systems. Bisphenol A (BPA) can alter Zn homeostasis and perturb the physiological system by provoking oxidative stress, which can lead to damage of different organs such as reproductive, immune, neuroendocrine, hepatic and renal systems. The present study aims to investigate the toxicity of BPA in Zn deficient condition in the liver and kidney of rat and to correlate its synergistic actions. Zn deficiency was induced by feeding Zn-deficient diet (ZDD), and BPA was administered orally (100 mg/kg/d). Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: NPD + Vehicle (normal feed and water), NPD + BPA (100 mg/kg/d), ZDD + Vehicle (fed with Zn-deficient diet only) and ZDD + BPA (Zn-deficient diet + BPA; 100 mg/kg/d) for 8 weeks. Biochemical, histopathological, TUNEL assay and protein expression profiles were determined to decipher the oxidative damage induced by ZDD and the toxicant BPA. Expression profile of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, proliferating cell nuclear antigen, kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1, superoxide dismutase-1, metallothionein and apoptosis incidence showed that ZDD and BPA have a synergistic exacerbation effect on the liver and kidney of rat.

Reproductive toxicity of combined effects of endocrine disruptors on human reproduction

Confluence of environmental, genetic, and lifestyle variables is responsible for deterioration of human fecundity. Endocrine disruptors or endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) may be found in a variety of foods, water, air, beverages, and tobacco smoke. It has been demonstrated in experimental investigations that a wide range of endocrine disrupting chemicals have negative effects on human reproductive function. However, evidence on the reproductive consequences of human exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals is sparse and/or conflicting in the scientific literature. The combined toxicological assessment is a practical method for assessing the hazards of cocktails of chemicals, co-existing in the environment. The current review provides a comprehensive overview of studies emphasizing the combined toxicity of endocrine disrupting chemicals on human reproduction. Endocrine disrupting chemicals interact with each other to disrupt the different endocrine axes, resulting in severe gonadal dysfunctions. Transgenerational epigenetic effects have also been induced in germ cells, mostly through DNA methylation and epimutations. Similarly, after acute or chronic exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals combinations, increased oxidative stress (OS), elevated antioxidant enzymatic activity, disrupted reproductive cycle, and reduced steroidogenesis are often reported consequences. The article also discusses the concentration addition (CA) and independent action (IA) prediction models, which reveal the importance of various synergistic actions of endocrine disrupting chemicals mixtures. More crucially, this evidence-based study addresses the research limitations and information gaps, as well as particularly presents the future research views on combined endocrine disrupting chemicals toxicity on human reproduction.

Assembled Bisphenol A with cyclic oligosaccharide as the controlled release complex to reduce risky effects

Herein, in order to improve the bioavailability of a non-biodegradable pollutant, inclusion complexation procedures had been used to develop better formulations of this pollutant, Bisphenol A (BPA). In our research, an inclusion complex (IC) of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) with BPA was formed to investigate the effect of β-CD on the water solubility, anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial activity, toxicity, and thermal stability of BPA. UV-Vis and other spectrometric methods such as NMR, FTIR, and XRD indicated the molecular mechanism of interactions between β-CD and BPA, which was further hypothesized using molecular modeling to confirm preliminary results. Studies of TGA and DSC demonstrated that encapsulation boosted the thermal stability of BPA. This research also makes predictions about BPA's release behavior when CT-DNA is present. In vitro testing of the IC's antibacterial activities showed that it outperformed pure BPA. The in silico study was found to have a considerable decrease in toxicity level for IC compared to pure BPA. Therefore, β-CD-encapsulated BPA can lessen toxicity by raising antioxidant levels. Additionally, as its antibacterial activity increases, it may be employed therapeutically. Thus, this discovery of creating BPA formulations with controlled release and/or protective properties allows for a more logical application of BPA by reducing its hazardous effects through boosting its efficacy.

Alkylphenols cause cytotoxicity and genotoxicity induced by oxidative stress in RTG-2 cell line

Alkylphenols ethoxylates are industrial surfactants, and the release in the environmental matrices produces degraded products, of which nonylphenol (NP) and octylphenol (OP) were the most common. They can be classified as endocrine disruptors since the estrogenic potential is widely recognized, but some others toxic aspects are in discussion. This study aimed to evaluate the toxicity of NP, OP, and mixtures of both through cellular, biochemical and genetic biomarkers in fish gonadal cell line RTG-2 exposed to nominal concentrations of 0.05; 0.5; 5; 50, and 100 μg mL^-1 of each chemical and their mixtures of 0.05, 0.5; 5 μg mL^-1 concentrations. After 24 h, the cells were collected for cytotoxic (neutral red - NR; crystal violet - CV, resazurin assay - RA and lactate-dehydrogenase - LDH), antioxidant system (glutathione-s-transferase - GST; superoxide-dismutase - SOD; glutathione-peroxidase - GPx and malondialdehyde - MDA) and genotoxic assays (alkaline comet assay and Fpg-modified alkaline comet assay). The chemicals and their mixtures were cytotoxic at 50 and 100 μg mL^-1, in general aspect, but LDH showed cytotoxicity since 0.05 μg mL^-1. The GST and SOD showed an activity increase trend in most tested groups, while GPx decreased at 5 μg mL^-1 of the mixture. The MDA increase in all groups resulted in lipid peroxidation. The reactive oxygen species caused DNA damage for all groups. The tested chemicals and concentrations have been found in the freshwater systems. They can induce cell toxicity in several parameters that could impair the gonadal tissues considering the RTG-2 responses.

Bisphenol A enhances apoptosis, fibrosis, and biochemical fluctuations in the liver of adult male rats with possible regression after recovery

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an environmental contaminant that might be harmful. Human exposure to BPA can occur during the fetal and postnatal periods and extends throughout life. This study aimed to estimate the effects of oral administration of BPA on rat liver and assess the possibility of recovery after cessation. Adult male albino rats were orally administered with BPA (50 mg/kg body weight) for 8 weeks, and then one group was left to recover for 4 weeks. Histological, immunohistochemical, biochemical, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assessments were performed. Loss of hepatic architecture, vascular dilatation congestion, and exudation, as well as cellular vacuolation, fat accumulation, and pyknotic nuclei were detected. Furthermore, inflammatory infiltration, localized metaplasia, and excessive collagen deposition in the portal triad were observed. Expression of Bcl-2-associated X protein and transforming growth factor beta 1 was prominent, denoting apoptosis and fibrosis. After the administration of BPA, serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin, cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoproteins were enhanced. Additionally, total protein, albumin, and high-density lipoproteins decreased. After a recovery for 4 weeks, hepatic cellular and vascular pathologies returned to normal, except for some inflammatory infiltration. Regarding biochemical affection, most of the parameters were directed toward normal during recovery. However, most of them were still significantly different from controls. This explored BPA hepatotoxicity from structural and functional aspects, and the possible spontaneous reversibility was confirmed. However, the precise mechanisms underlying hepatotoxicity or recovery need more in-depth investigations.

Adverse Effects of Bisphenol A on the Liver and Its Underlying Mechanisms: Evidence from In Vivo and In Vitro Studies

BPA is a known endocrine-disrupting agent that is capable of binding to the estrogen receptor and has exhibited adverse effects in many laboratory animal and in vitro studies. Moreover, it also been shown to have estrogenic, antiandrogenic, inflammatory, and oxidative properties. The widespread presence of BPA in the environment presents a considerable threat to humans. BPA has been shown to be leached into the human ecosystem, where it is commonly found in food products consumed by humans. Although the concentration is relatively low, its prolonged consumption may cause a variety of deleterious health effects. The liver is an important organ for metabolizing and detoxifying toxic metabolites to protect organisms from potentially toxic chemical insults. BPA that is ingested will be eliminated by the liver. However, it has also induced hepatoxicity and injury via various mechanisms. To find research demonstrating the effects of BPA on kidney, a number of databases, including Google Scholar, MEDLINE, PubMed, and the Directory of Open Access Journals, were searched. Thus, this review summarizes the research on the relationship between BPA and its effects on the liver-derived from animals and cellular studies. The underlying mechanism of liver injury caused by BPA is also elucidated.

Genotoxic potential of bisphenol A: A review

Bisphenol A (BPA), as a major component of some plastic products, is abundant environmental pollutant. Due to its ability to bind to several types of estrogen receptors, it can trigger multiple cellular responses, which can contribute to various manifestations at the organism level. The most studied effect of BPA is endocrine disruption, but recently its prooxidative potential has been confirmed. BPA ability to induce oxidative stress through increased ROS production, altered activity of antioxidant enzymes, or accumulation of oxidation products of biomacromolecules is observed in a wide range of organisms - estrogen receptor-positive and -negative. Subsequently, increased intracellular oxidation can lead to DNA damage induction, represented by oxidative damage, single- and double-strand DNA breaks. Importantly, BPA shows several mechanisms of action and can trigger adverse effects on all organisms inhabiting a wide variety of ecosystem types. Therefore, the main aim of this review is to summarize the genotoxic effects of BPA on organisms across all taxa.

Histone deacetylase 2 inhibitor valproic acid attenuates bisphenol A-induced liver pathology in male mice

Accumulating evidence indicates the role of endocrine disruptor bisphenol A (BPA) in many pathological conditions. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibition has potential for the treatment of many diseases/abnormalities. Using a mouse BPA exposure model, this study investigated the hepatoprotective effects of the Food and Drug Administration–approved HDAC2 inhibitor valproic acid (VPA) against BPA-induced liver pathology. We randomly divided 30 adult male Swiss albino mice (8 weeks old; N = 6) into five groups: group 1, no treatment (sham control (SC)); group 2, only oral sterile corn oil (vehicle control (VC)); group 3, 4 mg/kg/day of oral BPA (single dose (BPA group)); group 4, 0.4% oral VPA (VPA group); and group 5, oral BPA + VPA (BPA + VPA group). At the age of 10 weeks, the mice were euthanized for biochemical and histological examinations. BPA promoted a significant decrease in the body weight (BW), an increase in the liver weight, and a significant increase in the levels of liver damage markers aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase in the BPA group compared to SC, as well as pathological changes in liver tissue. We also found an increase in the rate of apoptosis among hepatocytes. In addition, BPA significantly increased the levels of oxidative stress indices, malondialdehyde, and protein carbonylation but decreased the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) in the BPA group compared to SC. In contrast, treatment with the HDAC2 inhibitor VPA significantly attenuated liver pathology, oxidative stress, and apoptosis and also enhanced GSH levels in VPA group and BPA + VPA group. The HDAC2 inhibitor VPA protects mice against BPA-induced liver pathology, likely by inhibiting oxidative stress and enhancing the levels of antioxidant-reduced GSH.

Astaxanthin improves the development of the follicles and oocytes through alleviating oxidative stress induced by BPA in cultured follicles

This study is to investigate whether astaxanthin could alleviate the oxidative stress damages of follicles induced by BPA and improve the development of the cultured follicles and oocytes. Compared with BPA group, the survival rate, antrum formation rate, oocyte maturation rate and adherence area of the D8 and D10 follicles of the BPA+Asta group were significantly higher. The estrogen and progesterone in the culture medium of BPA+Asta group were significantly higher. PCNA in D8 and D10 granulosa cells and ERα in D10 granulosa cells of follicles in BPA+Asta group were significantly higher. The levels of malondialdehyde in the follicle culture medium, levels of ROS in the oocytes, the expression levels of caspase 3 and cathepsin B in the oocytes of the BPA+Asta group were significantly lower. However, the mitochondrial membrane potential, and the expression levels of antioxidant genes (CAT, SOD1 and SOD2) and anti-apoptotic gene Bcl-2 in the oocytes in the BPA+Asta group were significantly higher. Astaxanthin improves the development of follicles and oocytes through increasing the antioxidant capacity of follicles and oocytes, and relieving the BPA-induced oxidative stress during follicular development and oocyte maturation.

Protective Effect of Melatonin on Nonylphenol-Induced Reproductive and Behavioral Disorders in First-Generation Adult Male Rats

Methods

Pregnant Wistar rats were randomly assigned into five groups: control, NP (25 mg/kg), NP (25 mg/kg)+MLT (10 mg/kg), NP (25 mg/kg)+MLT (20 mg/kg), and MLT (20 mg/kg). The duration of treatment was 21 days from gestation time. Morris water maze was used to assess learning and memory. NP concentrations of serum and testicular tissue were measured by HPLC. Histological analysis of testicular tissues was done by H&E staining.

Results

Behavioral study showed that NP does not impair learning and memory in first-generation rats. Histomorphometric results showed that NP can significantly reduce the cross-sectional area of the seminiferous tubules and the epithelium, the diameter and number of seminiferous tubules, the thickness of the epithelium, and the number of spermatocytes and spermatogonia compared to other groups. MLT reversed the NP-induced histomorphometric. Also, it changes and increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and catalase (CAT). The level of malondialdehyde (MDA) significantly decreased in MLT-treated groups compared with the NP group.

Conclusion

Our finding showed that MLT enhanced the learning process and reduced NP-induced testicular tissue damage through its antioxidants and cytoprotective effects.

Assessing the toxic effects of bisphenol A in consumed crayfish Astacus leptodactylus using multi biochemical markers

Bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC), has strong potential for daily exposure to humans and animals due to its persistence and widespread in the environment, so its effects directly concern public health. Although invertebrates represent important components of aquatic ecosystems and are at significant risk of exposure, there is little information about the biological effects of EDCs in these organisms. Astacus leptodactylus used in this study is one of the most consumed and exported freshwater species in Europe. In this study, the 96-h effect of BPA on A. leptodactylus was examined using various biomarkers. The LC₅₀ value of BPA was determined as 96.45 mg L^-1. After 96 h of exposure to BPA, there were increases in superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferase (GST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities and levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), and total oxidant status context (TOSC), and there were decreases in the activity of glutathione reductase (GR), carboxylesterase (CaE), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), Na⁺/K⁺ ATPase, Mg²⁺ ATPase, Ca²⁺ ATPase, and total ATPase and the total antioxidant context (TAC). From the results of this study, it can be concluded that BPA has significant toxic effects on A. leptodactylus based on the selected biochemical parameters of antioxidant, cholinergic, detoxification, and metabolic systems in crayfish even at low doses. Thus, it can be said that BPA can seriously threaten the aquatic ecosystem and public health.

Thymoquinone Improved Nonylphenol-Induced Memory Deficit and Neurotoxicity Through Its Antioxidant and Neuroprotective Effects

Nonylphenol (NP), a well-known endocrine-disrupter chemical, has several harmful effects on the central nervous system including neuroendocrine disruption, cognitive impairment, and neurotoxicity. Thymoquinone (TQ) is a main bioactive compound in the black seeds of Nigella sativa that has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. Here, we investigated the neuroprotective effect of TQ against NP-induced memory deficit and neurotoxicity in rats. To induce memory impairment, NP (25 mg/kg) was used as gavage in male Wistar rats for 21 days. TQ (2.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally administered in NP-treated animals. The morris water maze test was performed to assess spatial learning and memory. The hippocampal tissues were isolated from the brain for histopathological evaluation. Biochemical, molecular, and cellular tests were performed to quantify oxidant (malondialdehyde; MDA)/antioxidant (superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and reduced glutathione (GSH) parameters) as well as markers for astrocytic activation (glial fibrillary acidic protein; GFAP) and neuronal death (alpha-synuclein; α-syn). Results showed TQ (5 mg/kg) significantly improved NP-induced memory impairment. Histological data revealed a significant increase in the number of necrotic cells in hippocampus, and TQ treatment markedly decreased this effect. The GSH and TAC levels were significantly increased in TQ-treated groups compared to NP group. The molecular analysis indicated that NP increased GFAP and decreased α-syn expression and TQ treatment did the reverse. In vitro study in astrocytes isolated from mice brain showed that TQ significantly increased cell viability in NP-induced cytotoxicity. This study strongly indicates that TQ has neuroprotective effects on NP-induced neurotoxicity through reducing oxidative damages and neuroinflammation. This study investigates the behavioral neurotoxicity induced by Nonylphenol (NP) and the protective effects of Thymoquinone (TQ) as a potent antioxidant compound using molecular, cell culture, histopathological and biochemical techniques.

Evaluate the bisphenol A-induced redox state in cells, zebrafish and in vivo with a hydrogen peroxide turn-on fluorescent probe

Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) is an important active oxygen species that plays a major role in redox balance and in physiological and pathological processes of various diseases of biological systems. As H₂O₂ is an endogenous active molecule, fluctuations in H₂O₂ content are not only affected by the state of biological system itself but also easily affected by Bisphenol A (BPA, a typical estrogenic environmental pollutant) in the external environment. Here, the near-infrared fluorescent probe Cy-NOH2 (λ_em = 750 nm) as a tool was synthesized to detect fluctuations in H₂O₂ content in cells and organisms induced by BPA. High sensitivity and excellent selectivity were found when the probe Cy-NOH2 was used to monitor endogenous H₂O₂ in vitro. In addition, the expression of H₂O₂ induced by different concentrations of BPA was able to be detected by the probe. Zebrafish and mice models were induced with different concentrations of BPA, and the H₂O₂ content showed significant increasing trends in zebrafish and livers of mice with increasing BPA concentrations. This study reveals that the probe Cy-NOH2 can be used as an effective tool to monitor the redox state in vivo under the influence of BPA, which provides a basis for clarifying the mechanisms of BPA in a variety of physiological and pathological processes.

Nonylphenol and cyproterone acetate effects in the liver and gonads of Lithobates catesbeianus (Anura) tadpoles and juveniles

Environmental pollution plays an important role in amphibian population decline. Contamination with endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is particularly worrying due to their capacity to adversely affect organisms at low doses. We hypothesized that exposure to EDCs such as 4-nonylphenol (NP) and cyproterone acetate (CPA) could trigger responses in the liver and gonads, due to toxic and endocrine disrupting effects. Growth rate may also be impaired by contamination. We investigated sublethal effects of a 28-day exposure to three different concentrations of NP and CPA on liver pigmentation, gonadal morphology, body mass, and length of tadpoles and juveniles Lithobates catesbeianus. Liver pigmentation and the gonadal morphologies of treated tadpoles did not differ from control, but growth rate was impaired by both pollutants. Juveniles treated with 10 μg/L NP and 0.025 and 0.25 ng/L CPA displayed increased liver melanin pigmentation, but gonadal morphologies, sex ratios, and body mass were not affected after treatments. The increase in liver pigmentation may be related to defensive, cytoprotective role of melanomacrophages. The decreased growth rate in tadpoles indicates toxic effects of NP and CPA. Thus, contamination with NP and CPA remains a concern and sublethal effects of different dosages of the compounds on native species should be determined.

Potential role of green tea extract and epigallocatechin gallate in preventing bisphenol A-induced metabolic disorders in rats: Biochemical and molecular evidence

BACKGROUND

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an artificial chemical widely used in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. Accumulating evidence indicates that BPA exposure is associated with metabolic disorders. The beneficial effects of green tea and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), major catechin present in green tea, on alleviating BPA-induced metabolic disorders have been shown in various studies.

PURPOSE

Protective effects of green tea extract and EGCG on BPA-induced metabolic disorders and possible underlying mechanisms were investigated.

METHODS

Rats were randomly divided into control, green tea extract (50 and 100 mg/kg, IP), EGCG (20 and 40 mg/kg, IP), BPA (10 mg/kg, gavage), BPA plus green tea extract (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, IP), BPA plus EGCG (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg, IP), and BPA plus vitamin E (200 IU/kg, IP). After two months, body weight, blood pressure, biochemical blood tests, hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH) were assessed. By enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, serum levels of insulin, leptin, adiponectin, TNFα, and IL-6, and by western blotting, hepatic insulin signaling (IRS-1, PI3K, Akt) were measured.

RESULTS

BPA increased body weight, blood pressure, and MDA, decreased GSH, elevated serum levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglyceride, glucose, insulin, leptin, TNFα, IL-6, and liver enzymes including alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase, and lowered high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and adiponectin levels. In western blot, decreased phosphorylation of IRS-1, PI3K, and Akt was obtained. Administration of green tea extract, EGCG, or vitamin E with BPA reduced the detrimental effects of BPA.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicate that green tea extract and EGCG can be effective in preventing or reducing metabolic disorders induced by BPA linked to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, regulating the metabolism of lipids, and improving insulin signaling pathways.

Lycopene attenuates bisphenol A-induced lung injury in adult albino rats: a histological and biochemical study

Bisphenol A (BPA) leads to ROS production that considered the core of different inflammatory and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. As a natural antioxidant, lycopene plays a significant role in the prevention of many chronic diseases. This study aimed to investigate the possible protective role of lycopene against BPA-induced lung alterations using morphometric, histological, immunohistochemical and biochemical methods. Forty rats aged 3 months were divided into four groups (n=10): control group, lycopene group comprising rats that received lycopene by gavage (10 mg/kg /day) for 30 days, BPA group comprising rats that received BPA by gavage (50 mg/kg/day) for 30 days and lycopene + BPA group. On the 30th day, blood and lung tissue samples were collected for biochemical, histological and immunohistochemical studies. Morphometrical and statistical analyses were performed. The BPA group revealed significantly elevated IL-1B, IL-6, MDA and NO, and it showed significantly reduced IL-10, SOD, CAT and GSH when compared to the control and lycopene + BPA groups. Upon histopathological and immunohistochemical examination, lycopene supplementation improved the BPA-induced alveolar collapse, lymphocytic infiltration, extravasated RBCs and fibrosis. The lycopene + BPA group showed significantly reduced mean percentage of 8-OHdG immunopositive and mean area percentages of Bax and caspase 3 immunopositive cells and significantly reduced mean area percentage of Bcl2 immunopositive cells as compared with the BPA group. Lycopene is a protective agent against BPA-induced lung injury because of its anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, as confirmed by biochemical and histological studies.

Hazards of Chronic Exposure to Nonylphenol: Concomitant Effect on Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Male Albino Rats

BACKGROUND: Chronic exposure to environmental endocrine disruptors like nonylphenol (NP), has been shown in previous studies to predispose to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. METHODS: In this work, forty adult male albino rats were divided into four groups, a high sucrose-high-fat diet (HSHFD) group, a group receiving 20 μg/kg/day of NP, an NP + HSHFD group, and a control group. The rats were sacrificed on day 60 after anesthetization. RESULTS: Biochemical tests indicated that serum transaminases (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase) were significantly increased in the NP + HSHFD group. Lipid metabolism was most disrupted in the NP + HSHFD with a highly significant increase (p < 0.001) of serum cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol compared to other groups. Heme oxygenase 1 showed the highest expression in the NP + HSHFD group, with a highly significant difference in comparison with the other groups (p < 0.001). Histopathological studies revealed fatty changes and dilatation in the central vein in the HSHFD group. Lymphoid cell aggregates were detected in the NP group. Massive inflammation and degeneration were revealed in the NP + HSHFD group. There was also marked expression of the apoptotic protein caspase-3 in the NP + HSHFD group. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, exposure to a 20 μg/kg/day of NP induced oxidative stress leading to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.

Protective Effect of Sodium Selenite on 4-Nonylphenol-Induced Hepatotoxicity and Nephrotoxicity in Rats

This study was aimed at evaluating the protective effect of sodium selenite (SS) on DNA integrity, antioxidant/oxidant status, and histological changes on 4-nonylphenol (4-NP)-induced toxicity in liver and kidney tissues of rats. Twenty-four adult male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into 4 groups as control, SS, 4-NP, and SS+4-NP group. Control group was untreated. The SS group was supplemented with SS (0.5 mg/kg/day) and the 4-NP group was given 4-NP (125 mg/kg/day). The rats in the SS+4-NP group received SS followed by 4-NP 1 h later at the abovementioned doses. The treatments were administered by oral gavage for 48 days. DNA damage was analyzed by comet assay in lymphocytes. Oxidative stress parameters were measured, and histological evaluation was performed in liver and kidney tissues. Results showed that SS administration significantly decreased % Tail DNA and Mean Tail Moment in SS+4-NP group as compared with 4-NP group. Catalase activity in liver was significantly lower in 4-NP group only. SS treatment significantly increased the glutathione level and decreased high malondialdehyde level in tissues of the SS+4-NP group as compared with 4-NP group. Dilation of central vein, ballooning degeneration, vacuolar degeneration, and deterioration in the structure of remark cords in 4-NP-administered were alleviated in rats that received SS supplementation before administration of 4-NP. Moreover, glycogen intensity in hepatocytes and the wall of central vein increased in the SS+4-NP group. In addition, the SS supplementation in the SS+4-NP group decreased glomerular degeneration as well as the width of cavum glomeruli and congestion intensity in the kidney. These results indicate that SS may have a protective effect against 4-NP-induced hepato-nephrotoxicity in rats.

The antagonistic effect of bisphenol A and nonylphenol on liver and kidney injury in rats

OBJECTIVE

Bisphenol A (BPA) and nonylphenol (NP) are widely distributed endocrine-disrupting compounds. We aimed to estimate the combined toxicity of BPA and NP at a clinically safe dose (100 μg/kg) in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Liver and kidney functions were evaluated by detecting the relevant indicators. Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE) staining was performed to examine the injury in the tissue. TUNEL assay and Western blot were used to detect cell apoptosis and expressions of target factors, respectively.

RESULTS

The body weight of rats in the BPA + NP group was lighter than that in the BPA or NP group. BPA or NP weakened liver function through increasing levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), cholesterol (CHOL), triglyceride TG, globulin (GLOB), treponemiapallidum (TP), and total bilirubin (TBIL). BPA and NP could induce kidney damage by elevating the levels of serum creatinine (Scr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Moreover, the malondialdehyde (MDA) content was increased, whereas the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), glutathione sulfotransferase (GSH-ST), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD) were reduced in those groups exposed to BPA or NP. HE staining exhibited injuries of the liver and kidney. Furthermore, the apoptosis of liver and kidney cells was enhanced by exposure to BPA or NP. Additionally, the expressions of CYP2D6, CYP1A1, and CYP2E1 were triggered by the treatment of BPA or NP. The combined effect of BPA and NP seemed to be antagonistic at a low dose.

CONCLUSION

BPA and NP may have potential interactions.

Vitamin D mitigates adult onset diseases in male and female mice induced by early-life exposure to endocrine disruptor BPA

Background

During early development, environmental compounds can induce adult onset diseases and disrupt the circulating vitamin D (VitD) levels.

Aim

This study aimed to examine the protective role of VitD against the adverse effects of BPA on male and female mice.

Methods

A total of 60 male and female Swiss Albino mice (3 weeks old) were randomly divided into 5 groups; each consisted of 12 mice (6 males and 6 females) and was treated as follows: Group I received no treatment (sham control); Group II, sterile corn oil only (vehicle control); Group III, BPA (400 μg/kg); Group IV, VitD (2,195 IU/kg); and Group V, BPA + VitD. At 10.5 weeks, the animals were sacrificed to conduct histological examinations.

Results

BPA-exposed mice were found to have neurobehavioral abnormalities, heart, kidney, and lung diseases with increased apoptotic indices in both sexes. On the other hand, the treatment of BPA mice with VitD altered this scenario with modulated motor activity, enhanced body and organ weights, and preserved the heart, kidney, and lung architecture, alongside a decreased percent apoptotic index.

Conclusion

Our findings illustrate that VitD protects mice against BPA-induced heart, kidney, and lung abnormalities.

Metagenomic analysis reveals nonylphenol-shaped acidification and methanogenesis during sludge anaerobic digestion

Nonylphenol (NP) is widely known for its estrogenic activity on organisms, but its influence on biochemical processes executed by complex microbiota is still unclear. The dose-specific effects of NP on sludge anaerobic digestion by shaping acidification and methanogenesis were reported. Both low (50 mg/kg) and high (1000 mg/kg) NP doses were beneficial to acidification and aceticlastic methanogenesis (AM), and high NP dose further stimulated hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis (HM). Stable isotope probing analysis indicated that the predominant methanogenic pathway was shifted from AM to a combination of AM and HM as NP dose increased. Acidogenic and methanogenic consortia were accumulated and restructured by NP in favor of acidification and substrate-based methanogenesis. Acidification-related genes for bioconversion of substrates into acetate (glycolysis, stickland reaction and pyruvate metabolism), acetate transportation and microbial robust performance were enriched with both low and high NP doses. Methanogenesis-related genes encoding acetyl-CoA dehydrogenase/synthetase (CODH/ACS) in aceticlastic pathway and transporters for coenzyme synthesis were enhanced by both NP doses. Besides, high NP dose promoted a majority of genes in CO₂-reduction pathway and key material transporters for coenzyme F420 and heterodisulfide reductase synthesis. This study shed light on complex microbial processes rather than certain organisms affected by NP with dose-specific pattern at genetic level and had implications in resource utilization of sludge containing refractory organics.

Role of dietary selenium in alleviating bisphenol A toxicity of liver albino rats: Histological, ultrastructural, and biomarker assessments

Bisphenol A (BPA) is used as a plasticizer in polycarbonate plastics. It has been used in consumer products and epoxy resins for decades as protective coatings and linings for food and beverage bottles. This can trigger human reactions to BPA which interferes with estrogen receptors. Our study explored the ameliorative effects of selenium (Se) in male rats on liver damage caused by BPA. Rats were divided into four groups at random: The first one obtained olive oil and acted as a control. Se (0.5 mg/kg diet) was given for the second group. The third one was treated with BPA (10 mg/kg body weight/day) orally. Concomitantly Se (0.5 mg/kg diet) and BPA (10 mg/kg body weight/day) were given orally in the fourth one. Liver specimens were prepared for light, electron microscopes and the serum samples were screened for biochemical markers. In the BPA received group, histological findings indicated apoptotic hepatic histological changes such as sinusoidal congestion, cytoplasmic vacuolation and leukocyte infiltration. Ultrastructurally, the same group had mitochondrial degeneration, rough endoplasmic reticulum swelling, and nuclear pyknosis, as well as fat droplet deposition and lysosome enhancement. Liver enzymes: In the BPA group, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) have been substantially increased. Moreover, histological and ultrastructural improvements were seen in the rat population treated with BPA and Se, whereas ALT and AST levels were lowered and malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), human C reactive protein (hCRP), and the serum levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) were significantly modulated. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Bisphenol A (BPA) is used in the manufacturing of polycarbonate plastic (e.g., water bottles, baby bottles) and epoxy resins (e.g., inner coating in metallic food cans). It is a non-polymer preservative for other plastics, one of the contaminants of the atmosphere and a common endocrine estrogenic disruptor. Our study explored the ameliorative effects of selenium (Se) in male rats on liver damage caused by BPA. Rats were divided into four groups at random: The first one obtained olive oil and acted as a control. Se (0.5 mg/kg diet) was given for the second group. The third one was treated with BPA (10 mg/kg body weight/day) orally. Concomitant Se (0.5 mg/kg diet) and BPA (10 mg/kg body weight/day) were given in the fourth one. Liver specimens were prepared for light, electron microscopes and the serum samples were screened for biochemical markers.

Dose- and time-effects responses of Nonylphenol on oxidative stress in rat through the Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway

Nonylphenol (NP) is a representative environmental endocrine-disrupting compound that can induce oxidative stress in organisms. The Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1)-nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway acts an important role in preventing oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of oxidative stress caused by NP on Keap1-Nrf2 pathway in rats. Rats were treated with NP (30, 90, 270 mg/kg) for different exposure time (7, 14 and 28 days). The levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in serum and glutathione S-transferase (GST), UDP-Glucuronosyl Transferase (UGT) in liver were detected by ELISA kits. Western blot was used to detect Keap1, Nrf2 protein expression in liver and cerebral cortex. The results showed that 28 days of NP exposure significantly increased ROS levels in NPH group. And 14 days exposure to NP significantly enhanced the levels of GST and UGT, while 28 days of exposure showed a suppressive effect. In liver, Keap1 levels was upregulated at 7, 14 and 28 days of NP exposure, while nuclear Nrf2 levels decreased at 7 and 28 days but increased at 14 days. In cerebral cortex, Keap1 and Nrf2 expression increased at 14 days but decreased at 28 days. Besides, with the prolongation of NP exposure time, the GST and UGT levels in NPM and NPH groups were increased firstly and then decreased, while Keap1 and Nrf2 protein levels were constantly decreased in liver and cerebral cortex. In conclusion, the lower dose and shorter exposure time of NP activated the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway that may reduce the damage of oxidative stress, but when further exposed to NP at higher dose and time, the pathway could be inhibited.

Alteration of lipid metabolism, autophagy, apoptosis and immune response in the liver of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) after long-term exposure to bisphenol A

Bisphenol A (BPA), as a phenolic compound, is harmful to human health, and its residue in the aquatic environment also threatens the health of aquatic animals. In this research, the toxicity effects of BPA on liver tissues were evaluated in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) after long-term exposure. Fish were exposed to five concentrations of BPA (0, 0.01, 0.1, 0.5 and 2 mg/L) for 30 days. The blood and liver tissues were gathered to analyze biochemical indices and genes transcription levels. The data related to lipid metabolism showed that BPA exposure increased serum total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels, upregulated the expressions of fatp1, pparγ, fas, atgl, hsl, pparα, cpt1b, acox-1, and downregulated the expression of dgat1 in liver. Antioxidative parameters displayed a reduced antioxidant ability and increased lipid peroxidation after BPA exposure. Meanwhile, the upregulations of nrf2, ho-1, cyp1a and cyp1b genes revealed an adaptive response mechanism against oxidative stress-induced adverse effects. After 30 days of exposure, BPA induced apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) via upregulating the expression levels of apoptosis and ERS-related genes and increasing Ca²⁺ concentration in liver. Moreover, the downregulation of mtor and the upregulation of atg3, atg7, tfeb, uvrag and mcoln1 indicated that BPA could influence the normal process of autophagy. Furthermore, BPA exposure activated toll like receptors (TLRs) pathway to mediate the inflammatory response. Our results demonstrated that BPA exposure disturbed lipid metabolism, and induced oxidative stress, ERS, apoptosis, autophagy and inflammatory response in the liver of common carp. These findings contributed to the understanding of hepatotoxicity mechanism induced by BPA in fish.

Polysaccharide from the seeds of Plantago asiatica L. alleviates nonylphenol induced intestinal barrier injury by regulating tight junctions in human Caco-2 cell line

The intestinal epithelium is known as an important barrier to protect the body from harmful pathogens or toxic substance that may induce intestinal barrier injury. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of polysaccharide from the seeds of Plantago asiatica L. (PLP) on nonylphenol (NP) induced intestinal barrier injury in vitro. Caco-2 cells were pretreated with PLP, or co-cultured with PLP and NP simultaneously, and cytotoxicity, LDH leakage, transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), FITC-dextran flux and tight junction (TJ) proteins were conducted to evaluate the intestinal barrier function. The results suggested that PLP pretreatment or co-culture with NP could significantly attenuated NP induced Caco-2 cytotoxicity, suppressed LDH release, restored the TEER value and paracellular permeability of Caco-2 monolayers, which were attributed to enhancing the TJ protein expressions. In addition, PLP co-cultured with NP possessed better protective effects against NP induced cytotoxicity. This study indicated that PLP assuaged NP induced intestinal barrier injury by increasing TJ, and threw light on the development of a dietary supplementation for preventing exogenous toxic substances induced intestinal barrier injury or improving intestinal TJ barrier function.

Role of Antioxidants in Alleviating Bisphenol A Toxicity

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an oestrogenic endocrine disruptor widely used in the production of certain plastics, e.g., polycarbonate, hard and clear plastics, and epoxy resins that act as protective coating for food and beverage cans. Human exposure to this chemical is thought to be ubiquitous. BPA alters endocrine function, thereby causing many diseases in human and animals. In the last few decades, studies exploring the mechanism of BPA activity revealed a direct link between BPA-induced oxidative stress and disease pathogenesis. Antioxidants, reducing agents that prevent cellular oxidation reactions, can protect BPA toxicity. Although the important role of antioxidants in minimizing BPA stress has been demonstrated in many studies, a clear consensus on the associated mechanisms is needed, as well as the directives on their efficacy and safety. Herein, considering the distinct biochemical properties of BPA and antioxidants, we provide a framework for understanding how antioxidants alleviate BPA-associated stress. We summarize the current knowledge on the biological function of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, and discuss their practical potential as BPA-detoxifying agents.

Protective potential of curcumin or taurine on nephrotoxicity caused by bisphenol A

Bisphenol A (BPA) received heightened attention in the recent years due to humans continuously being exposed to it. This study explores the effect of taurine or curcumin on subacute BPA treatment-induced nephrotoxicity in rats (Rattus norvegicus). Forty-two adult albino male rats were exposed to BPA (130 mg/kg daily) for 28 days by gastric gavage. BPA led to lipid peroxidation, inhibiting antioxidant enzyme activities like catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione S-transferase (GST). BPA exposure also induced histopathological changes like tubular and glomerular degeneration, vascular congestion, and interstitial cell infiltration in kidney tissue. Cotreatment with taurine (100 mg/kg daily) or curcumin (100 mg/kg daily) alleviated the lipid peroxidation level and antioxidant enzyme activities and histological alterations brought about by BPA. In this study, curcumin and taurine application provided protection against renal toxicity caused by BPA but did not prevent toxic effect completely.

Oxidative Stress and BPA Toxicity: An Antioxidant Approach for Male and Female Reproductive Dysfunction

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a non-persistent anthropic and environmentally ubiquitous compound widely employed and detected in many consumer products and food items; thus, human exposure is prolonged. Over the last ten years, many studies have examined the underlying molecular mechanisms of BPA toxicity and revealed links among BPA-induced oxidative stress, male and female reproductive defects, and human disease. Because of its hormone-like feature, BPA shows tissue effects on specific hormone receptors in target cells, triggering noxious cellular responses associated with oxidative stress and inflammation. As a metabolic and endocrine disruptor, BPA impairs redox homeostasis via the increase of oxidative mediators and the reduction of antioxidant enzymes, causing mitochondrial dysfunction, alteration in cell signaling pathways, and induction of apoptosis. This review aims to examine the scenery of the current BPA literature on understanding how the induction of oxidative stress can be considered the "fil rouge" of BPA's toxic mechanisms of action with pleiotropic outcomes on reproduction. Here, we focus on the protective effects of five classes of antioxidants-vitamins and co-factors, natural products (herbals and phytochemicals), melatonin, selenium, and methyl donors (used alone or in combination)-that have been found useful to counteract BPA toxicity in male and female reproductive functions.

Modification of PARP4, XRCC3, and RAD51 Gene Polymorphisms on the Relation between Bisphenol A Exposure and Liver Abnormality

Repair genes may play critical roles in the relationships between environmental exposure and health outcomes. However, no evidence is available about the effect of repair gene polymorphisms on the relationship between bisphenol A (BPA) exposure and liver abnormality. Therefore, we evaluated the effect of nine genotyped polymorphisms in three repair genes, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase family member 4 (PARP4), X-ray repair cross complementing 3 (XRCC3), and RAD51 recombinase (RAD51), on the relationship between BPA exposure and liver abnormality using repeated measures data for an elderly population. A significant association between BPA levels and liver abnormality was found only in elders with the PARP4 G-C-G haplotype, XRCC3 G-A-G haplotype, or RAD51 T-A-A haplotype (odds ratio (OR) = 2.16 and p = 0.0014 for PARP4; OR = 1.57 and p = 0.0249 for XRCC3; OR = 1.43 and p = 0.0422 for RAD51). Particularly, PARP4 and XRCC3 showed significant interactions with BPA exposure in relation to liver abnormality (p < 0.05 for both genes). These results indicate that PARP4, XRCC3, and RAD51 gene polymorphisms have modification effects on the relationship between BPA exposure and liver abnormality.

BPA disrupts 17‑estradiol‑mediated hepatic protection against ischemia/reperfusion injury in rat liver by upregulating the Ang II/AT1R signaling pathway

Bisphenol A (BPA), a xenoestrogen commonly used in plastics, may act as an endocrine disruptor, which indicates that BPA might be a public health risk. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of BPA on 17β-estradiol (E2)-mediated protection against liver ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, and to identify the underlying mechanisms using a rat model. A total of 56 male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into the following seven groups: i) Sham; ii) I/R; iii) Sham + BPA; iv) I/R + BPA; v) I/R + E2; vi) I/R + E2 + BPA; and vii) I/R + E2 + BPA + losartan [LOS; an angiotensin II (Ang II) type I receptor (ATIR) antagonist]. A rat model of hepatic I/R injury was established by inducing hepatic ischemia for 60 min followed by reperfusion for 24 h. When ischemia was induced, rats were treated with vehicle, E2, BPA or LOS. After 24 h of reperfusion, blood samples and hepatic tissues were collected for histopathological and biochemical examinations. The results suggested that 4 mg/kg BPA did not significantly alter the liver function, or Ang II and AT1R expression levels in the Sham and I/R groups. However, 4 mg/kg BPA inhibited E2-mediated hepatic protection by enhancing hepatic necrosis, and increasing the release of alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase and total bilirubin (P<0.05). Moreover, BPA increased serum and hepatic Ang II levels, as well as AT1R protein expression levels in the E2-treated rat model of liver I/R injury (P<0.05). LOS treatment reversed the negative effects of BPA on hepatic necrosis and liver serum marker levels, although it did not reverse BPA-mediated upregulation of serum and hepatic Ang II levels, or hepatic AT1R expression. Therefore, the present study suggested that BPA disrupted E2-mediated hepatic protection following I/R injury, but did not significantly affect healthy or I/R-injured livers; therefore, the mechanism underlying the effects of BPA may be associated with upregulation of the Ang II/AT1R signaling pathway.

Ginger extract ameliorates bisphenol A (BPA)-induced disruption in thyroid hormones synthesis and metabolism: Involvement of Nrf-2/HO-1 pathway

Environmental exposure to BPA is alarming because of the potential health threats for example those concerning the thyroid glands which may show signs of oxidative stress. This original study aimed to investigate the possible antioxidant protective effects of ginger extract (GE) against BPA-induced thyroid injury in male rats, focusing on its effect on Nrf-2/HO-1 signaling and thyroid hormone synthesis regulating genes. The cascade of events in thyroid injury induced by chronic exposure to BPA (200 mg/kg b.w/day for 35 days) involved a preliminary overproduction of ROS followed by significant (p ≤ 0.05) depletion of reduced glutathione (GSH) levels and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity as well as significant increases of malondialdehyde (MDA) contents, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) gene expression. These actions consequently down-regulate the Nrf-2/HO-I signaling which eventually resulting in the DNA fragmentation within the thyroid tissues. Moreover, BPA administration caused a reduction of thyroid iodide uptake evidenced by significant inhibitions (p ≤ 0.05) of sodium-iodide symporter (NIS), thyroid peroxidase (TPO) and thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR) mRNA expressions within the thyroid glands. A subsequent significant decreased serum levels of T3 and T4 accompanied by a significantly increased serum TSH level were also detected. These findings were confirmed by the severe pathological changes detected in the thyroid tissue of BPA treated rats. These biochemical and histological alterations were significantly alleviated with ginger administration (250 mg/kg b.w/day for 35 days) plus BPA. In conclusion, ginger extract is a potent antioxidant that can effectively protect against BPA-induced thyroid oxidative damage by activating the Nrf-2/HO-1 gene expressions and enhancing the thyroid hormones synthesis. This is the first study to show the contribution of Nrf-2/HO-1 pathway to the protective effect of ginger extract against BPA-induced thyroid oxidative damage and thyroid hormonal disruption.

Mung Bean Protein Hydrolysates Protect Mouse Liver Cell Line Nctc-1469 Cell from Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Cell Injury

Mung bean is nutritious and rich in protein (19.5%–33.1%). However, there are few studies on mung bean protein active peptides so the mung bean protein hydrolysates (MBPHs) were investigated for evaluating their ability to clear intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and regulating the ability of antioxidant enzymes on NCTC-1469 cells. Results showed that MBPHs, MBPHs-I (molecular weight < 3 kDa), MBPHs-II (molecular weight between 3 and 10 kDa), and MBPHs-III (molecular weight > 10 kDa) could all improve the survival rate of cells compared with the model group. MBPHs, MBPHs-I, and MBPHs-II could significantly decrease the content of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and reduce the generation of malonaldehyde (MDA) at a concentration of 0.4 mg/mL. Regarding the intracellular ROS, the result showed that MBPHs-I significantly reduced the production of ROS (from 58.3% to 26.6%) and had a dose-dependent relationship. In addition, the amino acid analysis showed that MBPHs-I had a balanced amino acid composition. MBPHs-I is rich in lysine but was deficient in cereals. Therefore, the hydrophobic and aromatic amino acids in MBPHs-I were high, which could improve its antioxidant activity. According to the results, MBPHs-I was the best and most potent natural antioxidant and it can contribute to drug development and medical application.

Bisphenol A-induced oxidative damage in the hepatic and cardiac tissues of rats: The modulatory role of sesame lignans

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an environmental pollutant that is widely produced throughout the world. It is primarily used in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastics, epoxy resins, paints and dental materials. BPA has been reported to promote hepatotoxicity and cardiotoxicity. The antioxidant activity of sesame lignans is well established. The current study assessed the protective efficiency of sesame lignans against BPA-induced hepatotoxicity and cardiotoxicity. Rats were divided into 4 groups: A control group, a BPA-treated group, a sesame lignans-treated group and a sesame lignans and BPA-treated group. Rats were orally administered their respective doses daily [30 mg/kg body weight (BW) BPA and/or 20 mg/kg BW sesame lignans] for 6 weeks. Liver function tests were performed using serum of all groups. Lipid profile and antioxidant status were also measured in liver tissue of the studied groups. The results were confirmed by histopathological examination of liver and heart tissues. The oral administration of BPA was revealed to elicit significant decreases in the activities of hepatic glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione. It also significantly increased levels of malondialdehyde. Furthermore, BPA-treatment resulted in lipid accumulation, elevated activities of alanine aminotransferase, creatine kinase MB and lactate dehydrogenase, and histological changes of liver and heart tissues. However, the co-administration of sesame lignans and BPA attenuated hepatotoxicity, cardiotoxicity and BPA-induced histological changes. The results of the current study indicated that sesame lignans may be helpful in the development of novel natural drugs to treat hepatic and cardiovascular disorders.

Bisphenol A aggravates renal ischemia-reperfusion injury by disrupting mitochondrial homeostasis and N-acetylcysteine mitigates the injurious outcomes

Exposure to bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical generally used in consumer products, becomes a global public health concern, as humans are increasingly exposed through their daily consuming activities. Renal ischemia-reperfusion (RIR) is the major cause of acute kidney injury with high prevalence and increased long-term risks for multiple comorbidities and mortality. As the kidney is susceptible to these conditions, we explored whether the outcomes following the RIR episode could be influenced by BPA exposure, and investigated the therapeutic possibility by N-acetylcysteine (NAC) including the mechanisms involved. Three groups of male Wistar rats were fed with vehicle, BPA 5, and 50 mg/kg, respectively, for five consecutive weeks then underwent the sham operation. Three other groups with identical treatment underwent bilateral renal IR induction (45-min ischemia followed by 24-hr reperfusion). An additional RIR group was treated with BPA 50 plus NAC 100 mg/kg. BPA-exposed rats that encountered RIR episode showed dose-dependent worsening of RIR injury as evidenced by augmentations of renal dysfunction and histopathological abnormalities, oxidative stress, apoptosis, mitochondrial functional impairment, mitochondrial dynamic, and mitophagy disproportion compared with the vehicle-exposed RIR group. The NAC therapy considerably attenuated the exacerbated effects of BPA, which was associated with increased AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), PGC-1α, silent information regulator 3 or sirtuin 3 (SIRT3), and mitofusin 2 (MFN2) expressions but decreased Phosphorylated dynamin-related protein 1 (p-DRP1)/Dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1), PTEN-induced putative kinase (PINK), and PARKIN expressions. These findings reveal the detrimental effect of repeated BPA exposure on the renal outcomes following the IR episode, and further demonstrate the protective efficacy of NAC by maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis, which is, partly, mediated through the AMPK-PGC-1α-SIRT3 axis.

Maternal exposure to environmentally relevant doses of bisphenol A causes reproductive dysfunction in F1 adult male rats: protective role of melatonin

This study investigated the protective effects of melatonin (MLT), a potent antioxidant, in male Wistar rats exposed to environmentally relevant doses of bisphenol A (BPA) in utero. Pregnant Wistar rats were randomly assigned into five groups. Group 1 (control) received 0.2 mL 1% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)/99% canola oil as vehicle; group 2 received BPA at 25 μg/kg/day; group 3 received BPA at 250 μg/kg/day; group 4 received BPA at 25 μg/kg/day with concurrent MLT 1 mg/kg/day while group 5 received BPA at 250 μg/kg/day with concurrent MLT 1 mg/kg/day. Treatments were by gavage from gestational day (GD) 10-21. The BPA-treated rats showed dose-dependent significant reduction in body weight, gonosomatic index, sperm motility, livability and count. Also, BPA caused significant reduction in the levels of serum testosterone and luteinizing hormone while it caused significant increases in the levels of follicle stimulating hormone as well as estradiol. Furthermore, BPA induced testicular oxidative stress including significant decreases in the activities of testicular SOD, GSH and GPx as well as GST, increasing the levels of testicular MDA and H2O2. It further induced interstitial necrosis and germinal cell degeneration in the testis with a subsequent diminution of the tubular and luminal diameter. However, co-treatment with MLT offered protection against testicular damage induced by BPA. Melatonin is likely to protect against alterations of the male reproductive system caused by BPA through a direct action on the mechanism of anti-oxidants as well as through the inhibition of necrosis.

Antigenotoxic and antimutagenic effects of Myrciaria dubia juice in mice submitted to ethanol 28-day treatment

Myrciaria dubia is a native plant from the Amazon region which produces red-purplish fruit rich in antioxidant compounds such as ascorbic acid, carotenoids, and phenolic. M. dubia fruit is used to prepare juices considered to possess high nutritional content providing health benefits. The aim of this study was to examine the ability of M. dubia juice to protect DNA against genomic instability induced by sub-acute ethanol consumption attributed to oxidative stress. Mice were treated for 28 days with juice at 25% and 50% diluted in distilled water or with the diluted combination juice plus ethanol (5 g/kg). The genotoxic/antigenotoxic and mutagenic/antimutagenic effects were assessed using comet assay in blood, liver, and kidney and micronucleus (MN) test with bone marrow. In addition, the mutagenicity was also evaluated using Salmonella/microsome assay. Phytochemical compounds were determined using HPLC/PDA/MS/MS. The juice did not induce genotoxic effects in blood, kidney, and liver cells at both doses. In combination with ethanol, the juice reduced the alcohol-mediated DNA damage in all tissues analyzed. Further, the juice did not produce mutagenic effects and decreased mutagenicity induced by ethanol in the bone marrow. The anthocyanins were major compounds detected by HPLC/PDA/MS/MS, which modulated genotoxic and mutagenic effects initiated by ethanol and at least in part appeared responsible for the observed antigenotoxic and antimutagenic effects of M. dubia juice.

Prenatal exposures to bisphenol A and di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate disrupted seminiferous tubular development in growing male rats

Endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) are found in the environment due to their use in industrial and manufacturing activities. Exposure of the population to bisphenol A (BPA) and di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is significant because they are present in many consumer products. EDCs target the reproductive tract because they express high levels of steroid hormone receptors, which act as transcriptional factors to regulate reproductive development. In the present study, timed-pregnant Long-Evans female rats (n = 8-10) were administered BPA and DEHP by oral gavage at 2.5 or 25 μg/kg body weight and 5 or 50 μg/kg body weight, respectively. Exposures to chemicals were limited to the period between gestational days 12 and 21 followed by assessment of testicular development in male offspring in the postnatal period. Leydig cells and Sertoli cells are the two major somatic cells present in the testis. The 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD) steroidogenic enzyme is a marker for Leydig cell maturation, whereas transferrin is a marker for Sertoli cell differentiation. At day 10 post-partum, testes were obtained from cohorts of control and chemical-exposed male rats and processed to measure 17β-HSD and transferrin expression levels in western blots. Compared to control, 17βHSD enzyme protein was increased in BPA-treated rats but levels were decreased in animals exposed to DEHP (P < 0.05). Transferrin protein was decreased in male rats exposed to both BPA and DEHP compared to control animals (P < 0.05). To assess qualitative cellular changes within the spermatogenic epithelium, testes were obtained from separate cohorts of male rats at 35 days of age and processed for histopathological analysis. Results showed that prenatal exposures of male rats to BPA and DEHP caused disruption of the spermatogenic epithelium evident as disorganization and atrophy of seminiferous tubules as well as desquamation of germ cells into the tubular lumen. Together, results from the present study support the view that developmental exposures to environmentally relevant levels of BPA and DEHP are associated with disruptions of testicular cell development, which have implications for endocrine and exocrine functions of testis.

Hepatoprotective Actions of Ascorbic Acid, Alpha Lipoic Acid and Silymarin or Their Combination Against Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

Background and objectives: Ascorbic acid, alpha lipoic acid (ALA) and silymarin are well-known antioxidants that have hepatoprotective effects. This study aims to investigate the effects of these three compounds combined with attenuating drug-induced oxidative stress and cellular damage, taking acetaminophen (APAP)-induced toxicity in rats as a model both in vivo and in vitro. Materials and Methods: Freshly cultured primary rat hepatocytes were treated with ascorbic acid, ALA, silymarin and their combination, both with and without the addition of APAP to evaluate their in vitro impact on cell proliferation and mitochondrial activity. In vivo study was performed on rats supplemented with the test compounds or their combination for one week followed by two toxic doses of APAP. Results: Selected liver function tests and oxidative stress markers including superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) were detected. The in vivo results showed that all three pretreatment compounds and their combination prevented elevation of SOD and GSSG serum levels indicating a diminished burden of oxidative stress. Moreover, ascorbic acid, ALA and silymarin in combination reduced serum levels of liver enzymes; however, silymarin markedly maintained levels of all parameters to normal ranges. Silymarin either alone or combined with ascorbic acid and ALA protected cultured rat hepatocytes and increased cellular metabolic activity. The subjected agents were capable of significantly inhibiting the presence of oxidative stress induced by APAP toxicity and the best result for protection was seen with the use of silymarin. Conclusions: The measured liver function tests may suggest an augmented hepatoprotection of the combination preparation than when compared individually.

The apoptotic effects of bisphenol A exposure on the rat ovary: an experimental study

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a key endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC) in the manufacturing industry. It is found in the structure of compounds such as polycarbonate and epoxy in combination with other chemicals. Our objective was to investigate the effect of BPA on rat ovaries. A total of 32 female rats were divided into four equal groups: In group 1 (control), vehicle was administered; in group 2, BPA 50 μg/day was administered intraperitoneally; in group 3, BPA 100 mg/kg/day was administered intraperitoneally; and in group 4, BPA 100 mg/kg/day and vitamin C (50 mg/kg) were administered intraperitoneally, while vitamin E (50 mg/kg) was administered intramuscularly. Thirty days after the treatment, the effects of BPA on the ovaries were evaluated by terminal deoxynucleotidyltransferase [TdT]-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. There was no difference in the number of apoptotic cells between group 2 and group 4. In addition, there was no significant difference between control group and group 2, 4. However, the number of apoptotic cells per unit area was significantly increased in group 3 compared with all groups (p < 0.01, p < 0.05). In conclusion, this study showed that high doses of BPA (100 mg/kg/day) have a toxic effect on the ovaries. The fact that the number of apoptotic cells in the group administered with high dose of BPA + 50 mg/kg/day vitamin C + 50 mg/kg/day vitamin E was lower than that of the high-dose BPA-administered group shows that these vitamins may have a protective effect.

Effects of Bauhinia forficata on glycaemia, lipid profile, hepatic glycogen content and oxidative stress in rats exposed to Bisphenol A

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an abundant raw material applied in the production of daily necessities, such as food cans, baby bottles, electronic and medical equipment. Phytotherapeutic use of plant preparations has long been known for multiple target medicinal uses. The species Bauhinia forficata is widely used as hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, diuretic and hypocholesterolemic agent. The aim of this study was to verify the effects of B. forficata extract in association with BPA exposure on serological parameters, hepatic antioxidant status and glycogen store capacity in Wistar rats. B. forficata was able to reduce BPA-induced glucose levels; it also prevented the early glucose elevation in control and BPA-exposed animals after the glucose provocative test. This effect was related to the hepatic glycogen content; while BPA reduced the hepatic glycogen deposits B. forficata treatment contributed to minimize it. BPA and B. forficata singly caused elevation in triacylglycerol and VLDL levels and reduction in cholesterol and LDL concentrations. BPA increased hepatic malondialdehyde levels and reduced catalase activity, thus inducing liver oxidative stress. Conversely, B. forficata treatment reduced malondialdehyde concentration without interfering with catalase activity; this antioxidant capacity is attributed to the flavonoids content (e.g., kaempferol and myricetin). Based on these results, we demonstrated that B. forficata commercial extract has hypoglycemic and antioxidant properties capable of minimizing the effects of BPA. However, it should be considered that the consumption of herbal commercial extract must be judicious to avoid deleterious health effects.

Bisphenol-A induced oxidative stress, inflammatory gene expression, and metabolic and histopathological changes in male Wistar albino rats: protective role of boron

Bisphenol A (BPA) is one of the most produced chemicals in the world and has been widely employed in the food industry. Continuous and widespread exposure to BPA through drinking water and food leads to health concerns for humans. This study evaluated the effects of boron (B) on BPA-mediated oxidative stress in male Wistar albino rats. Rats were equally divided into 5 groups; corn oil was given orally to the control group; 25 mg kg^-1 of BPA dissolved in corn oil was given orally to the second group. All other groups received the same dose of BPA and different doses of B (5, 10, and 20 mg kg^-1 per day, respectively) orally for 30 days. The administration of BPA significantly decreased glutathione levels and increased malondialdehyde levels in rat tissues. Furthermore, BPA treatment reduced the catalase and superoxide dismutase activities in tissues and erythrocytes. Also, mRNA expression levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in the brain, liver, and testes of rats were augmented, whereas IL-10 was decreased with BPA treatment. Besides, BPA treatment adversely altered biochemical parameters and caused damage to the cell integrity of rat tissues. However, B administration reversed BPA-induced alterations in rat tissues in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, B exhibited antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and regulated metabolic and histopathological alterations in male Wistar albino rats exposed to BPA.

Metabolomics Reveals Metabolic Changes Caused by Low-Dose 4-Tert-Octylphenol in Mice Liver

Background: Humans are constantly exposed to low concentrations of 4-tert-octylphenol (OP). However, studies investigating the effects of low-dose OP on the liver are scarce, and the mechanism of these effects has not been thoroughly elucidated to date. Methods: Adult male institute of cancer research (ICR) mice were exposed to low-dose OP (0, 0.01 and 1 μg/kg/day) for 7 consecutive days. Weights of mice were recorded daily during the experiment. Blood serum levels of OP, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were determined, and haematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining of the liver was performed. We applied an integrated metabolomic and enzyme gene expression analysis to investigate liver metabolic changes, and the gene expression of related metabolic enzymes was determined by real-time PCR and ELISA. Results: OP in blood serum was increased after OP exposure, while body weights of mice were unchanged. Liver weight and its organ coefficient were decreased significantly in the OP (1 μg/kg/day) group, but ALT and AST, as well as the HE staining results, were unchanged after OP treatment. The levels of cytidine, uridine, purine and N-acetylglutamine were increased significantly, and the level of vitamin B6 was decreased significantly in mice treated with OP (1 μg/kg/day). The mRNA and protein levels of Cda and Shmt1 were both increased significantly in OP (1 μg/kg/day)-treated mice. Conclusions: Through metabolomic analysis, our study firstly found that pyrimidine and purine synthesis were promoted and that N-acetylglutamine was upregulated after low-dose OP treatment, indicating that the treatment disturbed nucleic acid and amino acid metabolism in mice liver.

In vitro antioxidant efficacy and the therapeutic potential of Wendlandia heynei (Schult.) Santapau & Merchant against bisphenol A-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

The aim of present study was to access the antioxidant and ameliorative efficacy of Wendlandia heynei stem bark's crude methanol extract (WHBM) against bisphenol A (BPA)-induced hepatotoxicity in the rat moel. WHBM and its derived fractions exhibited promising activity for the scavenging of DPPH, hydroxyl and nitrite radicals, iron chelation, and for the inhibition of β-carotene oxidation. The administration of BPA to Sprague Dawley rats (25 mg kg-1) for 28 days resulted in an elevated (p < 0.01) level of aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and globulin, and at the same time a decrease (p < 0.01) in the level of total protein and albumin in the serum of the rats. In hepatic samples, the levels of catalase, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione-S-transferase, and reduced glutathione were decreased (p < 0.05), whereas thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, hydrogen peroxide, and the nitrite content were increased (p < 0.05) with BPA treatment to the rats. The administration of WHBM to BPA-intoxicated rats restored the altered levels of these parameters toward the control animals. Histopathological alterations of the hepatic tissues induced with BPA were restored with WHBM co-treatment to the rats. HPLC-DAD analysis ensured the occurrence of rutin, catechin, and caffeic acid in WHBM and WHBE. The results of this study suggested that the presence of phenolics and flavonoids in W. heynei bark might be responsible for it exhibiting antioxidant potential during the in vitro and in vivo studies and hence it has potential to be used as a therapeutic agent against oxidative stress associated diseases.

Ameliorative effects of quercetin against bisphenol A-caused oxidative stress in human erythrocytes: an in vitro and in silico study

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine disruptor of xenobiotic type, mainly used for the production of polycarbonate plastic, epoxy resins and non-polymer additives. Because of its wide usages in the environment, the toxic effects of BPA have proved to be harmful to human health. However, its effects on human haemoglobin remain unclear. The affinity between BPA and haemoglobin, as well as erythrocytes, is an important factor in understanding the mechanism of the toxicity of BPA. Flavonoids are strong antioxidants that prevent oxidative stress and Quercetin is a flavonoid found in numerous vegetables and fruits. Therefore, the present investigation was undertaken to investigate whether Quercetin can be used to alleviate the toxic effects of BPA in vitro in human red blood cells (RBC). Venous blood samples were collected from healthy, well-nourished adult volunteers (25-30 years old) by phlebotomy. In a RBC suspension with a cell density of 2 × 104 cell per mL, the concentration of BPA (25-150 µg mL-1) was found to cause an increase in the lipid peroxidation (LPO) and a decrease in the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) in human RBC. However, the concurrent addition of BPA (150 µg mL-1) and quercetin (10-50 µg mL-1) lead to significant amelioration. In silico studies gave structural insight into BPA and quercetin to decipher the plausible binding mechanism and molecular level recognition.