1
|
Dou Y, Zhang M, Zhang H, Zhang C, Feng L, Hu J, Gao Y, Yuan XZ, Zhao Y, Zhao H, Chen ZJ. Lactating exposure to microplastics at the dose of infants ingested during artificial feeding induced reproductive toxicity in female mice and their offspring. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 949:174972. [PMID: 39053555 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution poses a global environmental challenge with significant concerns regarding its potential impact on human health. Toxicological investigations have revealed multi-system impairments caused by MPs in various organisms. However, the specific reproductive hazards in human contexts remain elusive, and understanding the transgenerational reproductive toxicity of MPs remains limited. This study delves into the reproductive toxicity resulting from lactational exposure to polystyrene MPs (PS-MPs) in female mice, extending the inquiry to assess the reproductive effects on their offspring bred by rigorous natural mating. The MPs dosage corresponds to the detected concentration in infant formula prepared using plastic bottles. By systematically evaluating the reproductive phenotypes of F0 female mice from birth to adulthood, we found that female mice exposed to PS-MPs exhibited delayed puberty, disturbed estrous cyclicity, diminished fertility, elevated testosterone, abnormal follicle development, disrupted ovarian steroidogenesis, and ovarian inflammation. Importantly, the observed inheritable reproductive toxicity manifested with gender specificity, showcasing more pronounced abnormalities in male offspring. Specifically, reproductive disorders did not manifest in female offspring; however, a significant decrease in sperm count and viability was observed in PS-MPs-exposed F1 males. Testicular transcriptomics analysis of F1 males significantly enriched pathways associated with reproductive system development and epigenetic modification, such as male germ cell proliferation, DNA methylation, and histone modification. In summary, real-life exposure to PS-MPs impaired the reproductive function of female mice and threateningly disrupted the spermatogenesis of their F1 male offspring, which raises serious concerns about inter- and trans-generational reproductive toxicities of MPs in mammals. These findings underscore the potential threats of MPs to human reproductive health, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and research in this critical area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunde Dou
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Mengge Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Honghui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China; Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, China; Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Changlong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Lijuan Feng
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jingmei Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Yuan Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Xian-Zheng Yuan
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Yueran Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Han Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China; Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Liu J, Xu F, Guo M, Gao D, Song Y. Nasal instillation of polystyrene nanoplastics induce lung injury via mitochondrial DNA release and activation of the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon genes-signaling cascade. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 948:174674. [PMID: 39002594 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174674] [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: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) are a common type of degraded plastic material associated with adverse health effects such as pulmonary injury. However, the molecular mechanism(s) underlying lung injury as caused by NPs remains uncertain. Thus, we herein investigated the pulmonary toxicity of NPs on RAW264.7 cells and C57BL/6 mice. Our in vitro study indicated that NPs induced oxidative stress, cell death, inflammation, and the activation of the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-signaling pathway. Mice in our in vivo study displayed significant pulmonary fibrosis, inflammation, apoptosis, necrosis, and excessive double-stranded DNA release into serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Our mechanistic exploration uncovered cGAS-STING-signaling activation as the leading cause of NPs-induced pulmonary fibrosis. The current study opens an avenue toward elucidating the role of the cGAS-STING-signaling pathway in NPs-induced pulmonary injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Liu
- College of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Guizhou Minzu University, GuiYang 550025, China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 10085, China
| | - Fang Xu
- College of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Guizhou Minzu University, GuiYang 550025, China
| | - Mingzhu Guo
- College of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Guizhou Minzu University, GuiYang 550025, China
| | - Daxue Gao
- College of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Guizhou Minzu University, GuiYang 550025, China
| | - Yang Song
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 10085, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Liu H, Tan X, Li X, Wu Y, Lei S, Wang Z. Amino-modified nanoplastics at predicted environmental concentrations cause transgenerational toxicity through activating germline EGF signal in Caenorhabditis elegans. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 947:174766. [PMID: 39004367 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174766] [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: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
In the real environment, some chemical functional groups are unavoidably combined on the nanoplastic surface. Reportedly, amino-modified polystyrene nanoparticles (PS-A NPs) exposure in parents can induce severe transgenerational toxicity, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unclear. Using Caenorhabditis elegans as the animal model, this study was performed to investigate the role of germline epidermal growth factor (EGF) signal on modulating PS-A NPs' transgenerational toxicity. As a result, 1-10 μg/L PS-A NPs exposure transgenerationally enhanced germline EGF ligand/LIN-3 and NSH-1 levels. Germline RNAi of lin-3 and nsh-1 was resistant against PS-A NPs' transgenerational toxicity, implying the involvement of EGF ligand activation in inducing PS-A NPs' transgenerational toxicity. Furthermore, LIN-3 overexpression transgenerationally enhanced EGF receptor/LET-23 expression in the progeny, and let-23 RNAi in F1-generation notably suppressed PS-A NPs' transgenerational toxicity in the exposed worms overexpressing germline LIN-3 at P0 generation. Finally, LET-23 functioned in neurons and intestine for regulating PS-A NPs' transgenerational toxicity. LET-23 acted at the upstream DAF-16/FOXO within the intestine in response to PS-A NPs' transgenerational toxicity. In neurons, LET-23 functioned at the upstream of DAF-7/DBL-1, ligands of TGF-β signals, to mediate PS-A NPs' transgenerational toxicity. Briefly, this work revealed the exposure risk of PS-A NPs' transgenerational toxicity, which was regulated through activating germline EGF signal in organisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huanliang Liu
- Environment and Health research division, Public Health Research Center, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu, China; Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environmental and Civil Engineering, Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Biomass Energy and Carbon Reduction Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anaerobic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Xiaochao Tan
- Environment and Health research division, Public Health Research Center, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaona Li
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environmental and Civil Engineering, Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Biomass Energy and Carbon Reduction Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anaerobic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Yu Wu
- Environment and Health research division, Public Health Research Center, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shuhan Lei
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environmental and Civil Engineering, Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Biomass Energy and Carbon Reduction Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anaerobic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Zhenyu Wang
- Institute of Environmental Processes and Pollution Control, School of Environmental and Civil Engineering, Jiangsu Engineering Laboratory for Biomass Energy and Carbon Reduction Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anaerobic Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Han H, Zhang Z, Xu B, Ding L, Yang H, He T, Du X, Pei X, Fu X. Integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis reveals the underlying mechanisms for male reproductive toxicity of polystyrene nanoplastics in mouse spermatocyte-derived GC-2spd(ts) cells. Toxicol In Vitro 2024; 100:105893. [PMID: 39002813 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2024.105893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs), are ubiquitous pollution sources in human environments, posing significant biosafety and health risks. While recent studies, including our own, have illustrated that PS-NPs can breach the blood-testis barrier and impact germ cells, there remains a gap in understanding their effects on specific spermatogenic cells such as spermatocytes. METHODS AND RESULTS Herein, we employed an integrated approach encompassing phenotype, metabolomics, and transcriptomics analyses to assess the molecular impact of PS-NPs on mouse spermatocyte-derived GC-2spd(ts) cells. Optimal exposure conditions were determined as 24 h with 50 nm PS-NPs at 12.5 μg/mL and 90 nm PS-NPs at 50 μg/mL for subsequent multi-omics analysis. Our findings revealed that PS-NPs significantly influenced proliferation and viability, causing alterations in transcriptome and metabolome profiles. Transcriptomics analysis of GC-2spd(ts) cells exposed to PS-NPs indicated the pivotal involvement of cell proliferation and cycle, autophagy, ferroptosis, and redox reaction pathways in PS-NP-induced effects on the proliferation and viability of GC-2spd(ts) cells. Furthermore, metabolomics analysis identified major changes in amino acid metabolism, cyanoamino acid metabolism, and purine and pyrimidine metabolism following PS-NP exposure. CONCLUSION Our integrated approach, combining metabolomics and transcriptomics profiles with phenotype data, enhances our understanding of the adverse effects of PS-NPs on germ cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hang Han
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China; College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Bo Xu
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Liyang Ding
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Hong Yang
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Tiantian He
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Xing Du
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Xiuying Pei
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China.
| | - Xufeng Fu
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Yu HR, Sheen JM, Tiao MM. The Impact of Maternal Nanoplastic and Microplastic Particle Exposure on Mammal's Offspring. Cells 2024; 13:1380. [PMID: 39195272 DOI: 10.3390/cells13161380] [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] [Received: 07/18/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The issue of environmental nanoplastic (NPl) particle and microplastic (MPl) particle pollution is becoming increasingly severe, significantly impacting ecosystems and biological health. Research shows that NPl/MPl can penetrate the placental barrier and enter the fetus, leading to transgenerational effects. This review integrates the existing literature on the effects of prenatal NPl/MPl exposure on mammalian offspring, focusing particularly on its negative impacts on the central nervous system, liver, intestinal health, reproductive function, and skeletal muscles. The vast majority of previous studies on prenatal NPl/MPl in mammals have used polystyrene material. Future research should explore the effects of other prenatal NPl/MPl materials on offspring to better reflect the realities of the human environment. It is also essential to investigate the potential harm and underlying mechanisms associated with prenatal NPl/MPl exposure to offspring in greater depth. This will aid in developing appropriate prevention and treatment strategies in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Ren Yu
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- Institute for Translational Research in Biomedicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Jiunn-Ming Sheen
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Mao-Meng Tiao
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Guraka A, Souch G, Duff R, Brown D, Moritz W, Kermanizadeh A. Microplastic-induced hepatic adverse effects evaluated in advanced quadruple cell human primary models following three weeks of repeated exposure. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 364:143032. [PMID: 39111678 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.143032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
Nano and microplastics are defined as particles smaller than 100 nm and 5 mm respectively. The widespread production and use of plastics in everyday life has resulted in significant accumulation of plastic debris in the environment. Over the last two decades there are increased concerns regarding the potential entry and accumulation of plastics in the human body with ingestion being one of the most important routes of exposure. However, the magnitude and nature of potential toxic effects of plastic exposure to human health is not yet fully understood. The liver is the body's principal detoxification organ and critically to this study recognized as the main accumulation site for particulates. In this study as the first of its kind the health impacts of long term low repeated polystyrene microplastics (1 and 5 μm) exposure was investigated in a functionally active 3D liver microtissue model, composed of primary human hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, sinusoidal endothelial cells and hepatic stellate cells. The highlight from the data includes microplastic-induced dose (3.125-25 μg/ml) and time dependent (up to 504 h) increase in cell death and inflammation manifested by enhanced release of IL6, IL8 and TNF-α. The exposure to repeated dosing of the plastics also resulted in notable pathology manifested as aberrant tissue architecture, such as dilated bile canaliculi and large lipid droplets inside the hepatic cells. This toxicity matched extremely well to the accumulation of the materials with the cells of microtissue predominately in the organ macrophages. This study highlights the real issue and danger of microplastic exposure with potential for long-term accumulation and adverse effects of non-biodegradable plastics within the liver.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asha Guraka
- University of Derby, College of Science and Engineering, Derby, UK
| | - Graham Souch
- University of Derby, College of Science and Engineering, Derby, UK
| | - Richard Duff
- University of Derby, College of Science and Engineering, Derby, UK
| | - David Brown
- Heriot Watt University, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Ali Kermanizadeh
- University of Derby, College of Science and Engineering, Derby, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Bai CL, Wang D, Luan YL, Huang SN, Liu LY, Guo Y. A review on micro- and nanoplastics in humans: Implication for their translocation of barriers and potential health effects. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 361:142424. [PMID: 38795915 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142424] [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: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
As emerging contaminants, micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) can absorb and leach various toxic chemicals and ultimately endanger the health of the ecological environment and humans. With extensive research on MNPs, knowledge about MNPs in humans, especially their translocation of barriers and potential health effects, is of utmost importance. In this review, we collected literature published from 2000 to 2023, focusing on MNPs on their occurrence in humans, penetrating characteristics in the placental, blood-brain, and blood-testis barriers, and exposure effects on mammalian health. The characteristics and distributions of MNPs in human samples were analyzed, and the results demonstrated that MNPs were ubiquitous in most human samples, except for kidneys and cerebrospinal fluid. In addition, the phenomenon of MNPs crossing barriers and their underlying mechanisms were discussed. We also summarized the potential factors that may affect the barrier crossing and health effects of MNPs, including characteristics of MNPs, exposure doses, administration routes, exposure durations, co-exposure to other pollutants, and genetic predisposition. Exposure to MNPs may cause cytotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and developmental and reproductive toxicity in mammals. People are encouraged to reduce their exposure to MNPs to prevent these adverse health effects. Finally, we discussed the shortcomings of current research on MNPs in humans, providing a valuable reference for understanding and evaluating the potential health risks from MNP exposure in mammals, including humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cui-Lan Bai
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Hainan Branch, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Sanya, 572022, China
| | - Yu-Ling Luan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Si-Nan Huang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Liang-Ying Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Ying Guo
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Xue Y, Cheng X, Ma ZQ, Wang HP, Zhou C, Li J, Zhang DL, Hu LL, Cui YF, Huang J, Luo T, Zheng LP. Polystyrene nanoplastics induce apoptosis, autophagy, and steroidogenesis disruption in granulosa cells to reduce oocyte quality and fertility by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT pathway in female mice. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:460. [PMID: 39090717 PMCID: PMC11293132 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02735-7] [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] [Received: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nanoplastics (NPs) are emerging pollutants that pose risks to living organisms. Recent findings have unveiled the reproductive harm caused by polystyrene nanoparticles (PS-NPs) in female animals, yet the intricate mechanism remains incompletely understood. Under this research, we investigated whether sustained exposure to PS-NPs at certain concentrations in vivo can enter oocytes through the zona pellucida or through other routes that affect female reproduction. RESULTS We show that PS-NPs disrupted ovarian functions and decreased oocyte quality, which may be a contributing factor to lower female fertility in mice. RNA sequencing of mouse ovaries illustrated that the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway emerged as the predominant environmental information processing pathway responding to PS-NPs. Western blotting results of ovaries in vivo and cells in vitro showed that PS-NPs deactivated PI3K-AKT signaling pathway by down-regulating the expression of PI3K and reducing AKT phosphorylation at the protein level, PI3K-AKT signaling pathway which was accompanied by the activation of autophagy and apoptosis and the disruption of steroidogenesis in granulosa cells. Since PS-NPs penetrate granulosa cells but not oocytes, we examined whether PS-NPs indirectly affect oocyte quality through granulosa cells using a granulosa cell-oocyte coculture system. Preincubation of granulosa cells with PS-NPs causes granulosa cell dysfunction, resulting in a decrease in the quality of the cocultured oocytes that can be reversed by the addition of 17β-estradiol. CONCLUSIONS This study provides findings on how PS-NPs impact ovarian function and include transcriptome sequencing analysis of ovarian tissue. The study demonstrates that PS-NPs impair oocyte quality by altering the functioning of ovarian granulosa cells. Therefore, it is necessary to focus on the research on the effects of PS-NPs on female reproduction and the related methods that may mitigate their toxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue Xue
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Public and Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Xiu Cheng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Public and Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Disease Prevention and Public Health, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Zhang-Qiang Ma
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Public and Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Disease Prevention and Public Health, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Hou-Peng Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Public and Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Disease Prevention and Public Health, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Chong Zhou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Public and Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Jia Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Public and Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Da-Lei Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Public and Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Disease Prevention and Public Health, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Liao-Liao Hu
- The 2nd affiliated hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Yan-Fan Cui
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University; Institute of Biomedical Innovation, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, China
| | - Jian Huang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Public and Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Tao Luo
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University; Institute of Biomedical Innovation, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, China.
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Disease Prevention and Public Health, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China.
| | - Li-Ping Zheng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and School of Public and Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China.
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Disease Prevention and Public Health, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wang M, Wu Y, Li G, Xiong Y, Zhang Y, Zhang M. The hidden threat: Unraveling the impact of microplastics on reproductive health. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 935:173177. [PMID: 38750730 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics, with intricate physical and chemical characteristics, infiltrate the food chain and extensively impact ecosystems. Despite acknowledging the link between environmental pollution and declining fertility, the specific mechanisms affecting reproductive health remain to be elucidated. This review emphasizes the global correlation between microplastics and subfertility, focusing on entry pathways and impacts on ecosystems. Research suggests that microplastics disrupt the neuroendocrine system, influencing sex hormone synthesis through the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. In the reproductive system, microplastics interfere with the blood-testis barrier, impairing spermatogenesis in males, and causing placental dysfunction, ovarian atrophy, endometrial hyperplasia, and fibrosis in females. Moreover, microplastics potentially affect offspring's lipid metabolism and reproductive functions. However, complex microplastic compositions and detection method limitations impede research progress. Mitigation strategies for reproductive effects, combined with addressing microplastic pollution through sustainable practices, are imperative. This review underscores the urgency of global initiatives and collaborative research to safeguard reproductive health amid escalating microplastic contamination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mei Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Hubei Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health and Optimal Birth, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China
| | - Ying Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Hubei Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health and Optimal Birth, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China
| | - Guigui Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Hubei Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health and Optimal Birth, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yao Xiong
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Hubei Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health and Optimal Birth, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yuanzhen Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Hubei Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health and Optimal Birth, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Hubei Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China; Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health and Optimal Birth, Wuhan 430071, Hubei, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Sun J, Teng M, Zhu W, Zhao X, Zhao L, Li Y, Zhang Z, Liu Y, Bi S, Wu F. MicroRNA and Gut Microbiota Alter Intergenerational Effects of Paternal Exposure to Polyethylene Nanoplastics. ACS NANO 2024; 18:18085-18100. [PMID: 38935618 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c06298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs), as emerging contaminants, have been shown to cause testicular disorders in mammals. However, whether paternal inheritance effects on offspring health are involved in NP-induced reproductive toxicity remains unclear. In this study, we developed a mouse model where male mice were administered 200 nm polyethylene nanoparticles (PE-NPs) at a concentration of 2 mg/L through daily gavage for 35 days to evaluate the intergenerational effects of PE-NPs in an exclusive male-lineage transmission paradigm. We observed that paternal exposure to PE-NPs significantly affected growth phenotypes and sex hormone levels and induced histological damage in the testicular tissue of both F0 and F1 generations. In addition, consistent changes in sperm count, motility, abnormalities, and gene expression related to endoplasmic reticulum stress, sex hormone synthesis, and spermatogenesis were observed across paternal generations. The upregulation of microRNA (miR)-1983 and the downregulation of miR-122-5p, miR-5100, and miR-6240 were observed in both F0 and F1 mice, which may have been influenced by reproductive signaling pathways, as indicated by the RNA sequencing of testis tissues and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction findings. Furthermore, alterations in the gut microbiota and subsequent Spearman correlation analysis revealed that an increased abundance of Desulfovibrio (C21_c20) and Ruminococcus (gnavus) and a decreased abundance of Allobaculum were positively associated with spermatogenic dysfunction. These findings were validated in a fecal microbiota transplantation trial. Our results demonstrate that changes in miRNAs and the gut microbiota caused by paternal exposure to PE-NPs mediated intergenerational effects, providing deeper insights into mechanisms underlying the impact of paternal inheritance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Sun
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Miaomiao Teng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Wentao Zhu
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xiaoli Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Lihui Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Yunxia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Zixuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Yunjie Liu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agricultural, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Sheng Bi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States
| | - Fengchang Wu
- School of Energy and Environmental Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Peng Y, He Q. Reproductive toxicity and related mechanisms of micro(nano)plastics in terrestrial mammals: Review of current evidence. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 279:116505. [PMID: 38810287 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) have been detected in various ecological environments and are widely used due to their stable properties, raising widespread concern about their potential human reproductive toxicity. Currently, infertility affects approximately 10-30% of couples of reproductive age globally. MNPs, as environmental pollutants, have been shown to exhibit reproductive toxicity through intrinsic mechanisms or as carriers of other hazardous substances. Numerous studies have established that MNPs of varying sizes and types can penetrate biological barriers, and enter tissues and even organelles of organisms through four main routes: dietary ingestion, inhalation, dermal contact, and medical interventions. However, historical research on the toxic effects of MNPs on reproduction mainly focused on lower and aquatic species. We conducted an inclusive review of studies involving terrestrial mammals, revealing that MNPs can induce reproductive toxicity via various mechanisms such as oxidative stress, inflammation, fibrosis, apoptosis, autophagy, disruption of intestinal flora, endocrine disruption, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and DNA damage. In terrestrial mammals, reproductive toxicity predominantly manifests as disruption in the blood-testis barrier (BTB), impaired spermatogenesis, sperm malformation, sperm DNA damage, reduced sperm fertilizing capacity, compromised oocyte maturation, impaired follicular growth, granulosa cell apoptosis, diminished ovarian reserve function, uterine and ovarian fibrosis, and endocrine disruption, among other effects. Furthermore, MNPs can traverse the maternal-fetal interface, potentially impacting offspring reproductive health. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the potential reproductive toxicity and underlying mechanisms of MNPs with different sizes, polymer types, shapes, and carried toxins, as well as to explore effective protective interventions for mitigating reproductive damage, further in-depth animal studies, clinical trials, and large-scale epidemiological studies are urgently required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Peng
- Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha 410008, China.
| | - Qi He
- Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha 410008, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wen Y, Deng S, Wang B, Zhang F, Luo T, Kuang H, Kuang X, Yuan Y, Huang J, Zhang D. Exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics induces hepatotoxicity involving NRF2-NLRP3 signaling pathway in mice. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 278:116439. [PMID: 38728945 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116439] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastic contamination has been of intense concern by virtue of the potential threat to human and ecosystem health. Animal experiments have indicated that exposure to nanoplastics (NPs) can deposit in the liver and contribute to hepatic injury. To explore the mechanisms of hepatotoxicity induced by polystyrene-NPs (PS-NPs), mice and AML-12 hepatocytes were exposed to different dosages of 20 nm PS-NPs in this study. The results illustrated that in vitro and in vivo exposure to PS-NPs triggered excessive production of reactive oxygen species and repressed nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-like 2 (NRF2) antioxidant pathway and its downstream antioxidase expression, thus leading to hepatic oxidative stress. Moreover, PS-NPs elevated the levels of NLRP3, IL-1β and caspase-1 expression, along with an activation of NF-κB, suggesting that PS-NPs induced hepatocellular inflammatory injury. Nevertheless, the activaton of NRF2 signaling by tert-butylhydroquinone mitigated PS-NPs-caused oxidative stress and inflammation, and inbihited NLRP3 and caspase-1 expression. Conversely, the rescuing effect of NRF2 signal activation was dramatically supressed by treatment with NRF2 inhibitor brusatol. In summary, our results demonstrated that NRF2-NLRP3 pathway is involved in PS-NPs-aroused hepatotoxicity, and the activation of NRF2 signaling can protect against PS-NPs-evoked liver injury. These results provide novel insights into the hepatotoxicity elicited by NPs exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiqian Wen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Shiyi Deng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Binhui Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Fan Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Tao Luo
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
| | - Haibin Kuang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Xiaodong Kuang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Yangyang Yuan
- Clinical Medical Experimental Center of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
| | - Jian Huang
- Clinical Medical Experimental Center of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
| | - Dalei Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China; School of Public Health, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Disease Prevention and Public Health, Nanchang 330006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Liu Y, Chen SJ, Ai C, Yu PX, Fang M, Wang H. Prenatal dexamethasone exposure impairs rat blood-testis barrier function and sperm quality in adult offspring via GR/KDM1B/FSTL3/TGFβ signaling. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:1237-1251. [PMID: 38472317 PMCID: PMC11130295 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-024-01244-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Both epidemiological and animal studies suggest that adverse environment during pregnancy can change the offspring development programming, but it is difficult to achieve prenatal early warning. In this study we investigated the impact of prenatal dexamethasone exposure (PDE) on sperm quality and function of blood-testis barrier (BTB) in adult offspring and the underlying mechanisms. Pregnant rats were injected with dexamethasone (0.1, 0.2 and 0.4 mg·kg-1·d-1, s.c.) from GD9 to GD20. After weaning (PW4), the pups were fed with lab chow. At PW12 and PW28, the male offspring were euthanized to collect blood and testes samples. We showed that PDE significantly decreased sperm quality (including quantity and motility) in male offspring, which was associated with impaired BTB and decreased CX43/E-cadherin expression in the testis. We demonstrated that PDE induced morphological abnormalities of fetal testicle and Sertoli cell development originated from intrauterine. By tracing to fetal testicular Sertoli cells, we found that PDE dose-dependently increased expression of histone lysine demethylases (KDM1B), decreasing histone 3 lysine 9 dimethylation (H3K9me2) levels of follistatin-like-3 (FSTL3) promoter region and increased FSTL3 expression, and inhibited TGFβ signaling and CX43/E-cadherin expression in offspring before and after birth. These results were validated in TM4 Sertoli cells following dexamethasone treatment. Meanwhile, the H3K9me2 levels of FSTL3 promoter in maternal peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) and placenta were decreased and its expression increased, which was positively correlated with the changes in offspring testis. Based on analysis of human samples, we found that the H3K9me2 levels of FSTL3 promoter in maternal blood PBMC and placenta were positively correlated with fetal blood testosterone levels after prenatal dexamethasone exposure. We conclude that PDE can reduce sperm quality in adult offspring rats, which is related to the damage of testis BTB via epigenetic modification and change of FSTL3 expression in Sertoli cells. The H3K9me2 levels of the FSTL3 promoter and its expression in the maternal blood PBMC can be used as a prenatal warning marker for fetal testicular dysplasia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Si-Jia Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Can Ai
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Peng-Xia Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Man Fang
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China.
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, 430071, China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kaur M, Sharma A, Bhatnagar P. Vertebrate response to microplastics, nanoplastics and co-exposed contaminants: Assessing accumulation, toxicity, behaviour, physiology, and molecular changes. Toxicol Lett 2024; 396:48-69. [PMID: 38677566 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2024.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
Pollution from microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) has gained significant public attention and has become a serious environmental problem worldwide. This review critically investigates MPs/NPs' ability to pass through biological barriers in vertebrate models and accumulate in various organs, including the brain. After accumulation, these particles can alter individuals' behaviour and exhibit toxic effects by inducing oxidative stress or eliciting an inflammatory response. One major concern is the possibility of transgenerational harm, in which toxic consequences are displayed in offspring who are not directly exposed to MPs/NPs. Due to their large and marked surface hydrophobicity, these particles can easily absorb and concentrate various environmental pollutants, which may increase their toxicity to individuals and subsequent generations. This review systematically provides an analysis of recent studies related to the toxic effects of MPs/NPs, highlighting the intricate interplay between co-contaminants in vitro and in vivo. We further delve into mechanisms of MPs/NPs-induced toxicity and provide an overview of potential therapeutic approaches to lessen the negative effects of these MPs/NPs. The review also emphasizes the urgency of future studies to examine the long-term effects of chronic exposure to MPs/NPs and their size- and type-specific hazardous dynamics, and devising approaches to safeguard the affected organisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manjyot Kaur
- Department of Zoology, IIS (deemed to be University), Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Anju Sharma
- Department of Zoology, IIS (deemed to be University), Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.
| | - Pradeep Bhatnagar
- Department of Zoology, IIS (deemed to be University), Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ye J, Ren Y, Dong Y, Fan D. Understanding the impact of nanoplastics on reproductive health: Exposure pathways, mechanisms, and implications. Toxicology 2024; 504:153792. [PMID: 38554767 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2024.153792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is a pressing global environmental concern with particular urgency surrounding the issue of nanoplastic particles. Plastic products exhibit a remarkable persistence in natural ecosystems, resisting easy degradation. Nanoplastics, characterized by their diminutive size, possess distinct properties when compared to their larger counterparts, which could potentially render them more ecologically detrimental. Microplastics themselves serve as carriers for toxic and hazardous substances, such as plastic additives, that enter and persist in the environmental cycle. Importantly, nanoplastics exhibit enhanced bioavailability upon entering the food chain. Notably, studies have demonstrated the adverse effects of nanoplastics on the reproductive function of aquatic organisms, and evidence of micro- and nanoplastics have emerged within human reproductive organs, including the placenta. However, a knowledge gap persists regarding the impacts of nanoplastics on the reproductive systems of mammals and, indeed, humans. This paper aims to elucidate the less frequently discussed sources and distribution of nanoplastics in the environment, along with the pathways of human exposure. We also emphasize the extent to which nanoplastics accumulate within the reproductive systems of organisms. Subsequently, we present an in-depth analysis of the effects of nanoplastics and their associated contaminants on mammalian and human reproductive health. The mechanisms through which nanoplastics contribute to reproductive disorders are comprehensively explored, highlighting their potential to disrupt endocrine levels in mammals and humans. Additionally, we scrutinize and discuss studies on biotoxicity of nanoplastics, offering insights into potential areas for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingfan Ye
- Key Laboratory of Shale Gas and Geological Engineering, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Innovation Academy for Earth Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; College of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Ren
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yanhui Dong
- Key Laboratory of Shale Gas and Geological Engineering, Institute of Geology and Geophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Innovation Academy for Earth Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; College of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Dongwei Fan
- Department of Orthopaedics, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Spinal Disease Research, Beijing, China; Engineering Research Center of Bone and Joint Precision Medicine, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Wang K, Du Y, Li P, Guan C, Zhou M, Wu L, Liu Z, Huang Z. Nanoplastics causes heart aging/myocardial cell senescence through the Ca 2+/mtDNA/cGAS-STING signaling cascade. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:96. [PMID: 38448951 PMCID: PMC10918962 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02375-x] [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] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nanoplastics (NPs) are now a new class of pollutants widely present in the soil, atmosphere, freshwater and marine environments. Nanoplastics can rapidly penetrate cell membranes and accumulate in human tissues and organs, thus posing a potential threat to human health. The heart is the main power source of the body. But up to now, the toxicological effects of long-term exposure to nanoplastics on the heart has not been revealed yet. RESULTS We evaluated the effects of long term exposure of nanoplastics on cardiac cell/tissue in vitro and in vivo model. Furthermore, we explored the molecular mechanism by which nanoplastics exposure causes myocardial cell senescence. Immunohistochemistry, indirect immunofluorescence and ELISA were performed to detect the effects of nanoplastics on heart aging. We found that nanoplastics were able to induce significant cardiac aging through a series of biochemical assays in vivo. In vitro, the effects of nanoplastics on cardiac cell were investigated, and found that nanoplastics were able to internalize into cardiomyocytes in time and dose-dependant manner. Further biochemical analysis showed that nanoplastics induces cardiomyocytes senescence by detecting a series of senescence marker molecules. Molecular mechanism research shows that nanoplastics may cause mitochondrial destabilization by inducing oxidative stress, which leads to the leakage of mtDNA from mitochondria into the cytoplasm, and then cytoplasm-localized mt-DNA activates the cGAS-STING signaling pathway and promotes inflammation response, ultimately inducing cardiomyocytes senescence. CONCLUSIONS In this work, we found that nanoplastics exposure induces premature aging of heart. Current research also reveals the molecular mechanism by which nanoplastics induces cardiomyocyte senescence. This study laid the foundation for further studying the potential harm of nanoplastics exposure on heart.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaihao Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yipeng Du
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peixin Li
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chang Guan
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lanlan Wu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zengfu Liu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zheng Huang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hu Y, Shen M, Wang C, Huang Q, Li R, Dorj G, Gombojav E, Du J, Ren L. A meta-analysis-based adverse outcome pathway for the male reproductive toxicity induced by microplastics and nanoplastics in mammals. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133375. [PMID: 38160553 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The male reproductive toxicity of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) has attracted great attention, but the latent mechanisms remain fragmented. This review performed the adverse outcome pathway (AOP) analysis and meta-analysis in 39 relevant studies, with the AOP analysis to reveal the cause-and-effect relationships of MPs/NPs-induced male reproductive toxicity and the meta-analysis to quantify the toxic effects. In the AOP framework, increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) is the molecular initiating event (MIE), which triggered several key events (KEs) at different levels. At the cellular level, the KEs included oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, sperm DNA damage, endoplasmic reticulum stress, apoptosis and autophagy of testicular cells, repressed expression of steroidogenic enzymes and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, disrupted hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis, and gut microbiota alteration. These KEs further induced the reduction of testosterone, impaired blood-testis barrier (BTB), testicular inflammation, and impaired spermatogenesis at tissue/organ levels. Ultimately, decreased sperm quality or quantity was noted and proved by meta-analysis, which demonstrated that MPs/NPs led to a decrease of 5.99 million/mL in sperm concentration, 14.62% in sperm motility, and 23.56% in sperm viability, while causing an increase of 10.65% in sperm abnormality rate. Overall, this is the first AOP for MPs/NPs-mediated male reproductive toxicity in mammals. The innovative integration of meta-analysis into the AOP analysis increases the rigorism of the results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yinchu Hu
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Meidi Shen
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Chongkun Wang
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Qifang Huang
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Ruiqiong Li
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Gantuya Dorj
- School of Public Health, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar 14210, Mongolia
| | - Enkhjargal Gombojav
- School of Public Health, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar 14210, Mongolia
| | - Jiwei Du
- Nursing Department, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518040, China
| | - Lihua Ren
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Xiong S, He J, Qiu H, van Gestel CAM, He E, Qiao Z, Cao L, Li J, Chen G. Maternal exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics causes defective retinal development and function in progeny mice by disturbing metabolic profiles. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 352:141513. [PMID: 38387657 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141513] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are widely spreading in our living environment, accumulating in the human body and potentially threating human health. The retina, which is a terminally differentiated extension of the central nervous system, is essential for the visual system. However, the effects and molecular mechanisms of MPs/NPs on retina development and function are still unclear. Here, we investigated the effects and modes of action of polystyrene NPs (PS-NPs) on the retina using mice as a mammalian model species. Maternal PS-NP exposure (100 nm) at an environmentally realistic concentration of 10 mg L-1 (or 2.07 *1010 particles mL-1) via drinking water from the first day of pregnancy till the end of lactation (21 days after birth) caused defective neural retinal development in the neonatal mice, by depositing in the retinal tissue and reducing the number of retinal ganglion cells and bipolar cells. Exposure to PS-NPs retarded retinal vascular development, while abnormal electroretinogram (ERG) responses and an increased level of oxidative stress were also observed in the retina of the progeny mice after maternal PS-NP exposure. Metabolomics showed significant dysregulation of amino acids that are pivotal to neuron retinal function, such as glutamate, aspartate, alanine, glycine, serine, threonine, taurine, and serotonin. Transcriptomics identified significantly dysregulated genes, which were enriched in processes of angiogenesis, visual system development and lens development. Regulatory analysis showed that Fos gene mediated pathways could be a potential key target for PS-NP exposure in retinal development and function. Our study revealed that maternal exposure to PS-NPs generated detrimental effects on retinal development and function in progeny mice, offering new insights into the visual toxicity of PS-NPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shiyi Xiong
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Jincan He
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Qiu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Cornelis A M van Gestel
- Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment (A-LIFE), Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - ErKai He
- School of Geographic Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Zhengdong Qiao
- Center for Medical Research and Innovation, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Liang Cao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai International Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Guangquan Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Fetal Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 201204, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Liang J, Ji F, Wang H, Zhu T, Rubinstein J, Worthington R, Abdullah ALB, Tay YJ, Zhu C, George A, Li Y, Han M. Unraveling the threat: Microplastics and nano-plastics' impact on reproductive viability across ecosystems. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 913:169525. [PMID: 38141979 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169525] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution pervades both marine and terrestrial ecosystems, fragmenting over time into microplastics (MPs) and nano-plastics (NPs). These particles infiltrate organisms via ingestion, inhalation, and dermal absorption, predominantly through the trophic interactions. This review elucidated the impacts of MPs/NPs on the reproductive viability of various species. MPs/NPs lead to reduced reproduction rates, abnormal larval development and increased mortality in aquatic invertebrates. Microplastics cause hormone secretion disorders and gonadal tissue damage in fish. In addition, the fertilization rate of eggs is reduced, and the larval deformity rate and mortality rate are increased. Male mammals exposed to MPs/NPs exhibit testicular anomalies, compromised sperm health, endocrine disturbances, oxidative stress, inflammation, and granulocyte apoptosis. In female mammals, including humans, exposure culminates in ovarian and uterine deformities, endocrine imbalances, oxidative stress, inflammation, granulosa cell apoptosis, and tissue fibrogenesis. Rodent offspring exposed to MPs experience increased mortality rates, while survivors display metabolic perturbations, reproductive anomalies, and weakened immunity. These challenges are intrinsically linked to the transgenerational conveyance of MPs. The ubiquity of MPs/NPs threatens biodiversity and, crucially, jeopardizes human reproductive health. The current findings underscore the exigency for comprehensive research and proactive interventions to ameliorate the implications of these pollutants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ji Liang
- Universiti Sains Malaysia, Minden, Penang 11800, Malaysia
| | - Feng Ji
- Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Hong Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Tian Zhu
- Universiti Sains Malaysia, Minden, Penang 11800, Malaysia
| | - James Rubinstein
- College of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Richard Worthington
- School of Humanities and Sciences, Stanford university, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | | | - Yi Juin Tay
- Universiti Sains Malaysia, Minden, Penang 11800, Malaysia
| | - Chenxin Zhu
- Universiti Sains Malaysia, Minden, Penang 11800, Malaysia.
| | - Andrew George
- Department of Biology, University of Oxford, 11a Mansfield Road, OX12JD, UK
| | - Yiming Li
- School of Life Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Mingming Han
- Universiti Sains Malaysia, Minden, Penang 11800, Malaysia.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Wu Y, Li L, Tang L, Peijnenburg W, Zhang H, Xie D, Geng R, Zheng T, Bi L, Wei X, Chae HJ, Wang L, Zhao L, Li B, Zheng Q. Ototoxicity of polystyrene nanoplastics in mice, HEI-OC1 cells and zebrafish. Front Mol Neurosci 2024; 17:1345536. [PMID: 38440220 PMCID: PMC10909942 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2024.1345536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Polystyrene nanoplastics are a novel class of pollutants. They are easily absorbed by living organisms, and their potential toxicity has raised concerns. However, the impact of polystyrene nanoplastics on auditory organs remains unknown. Here, our results showed that polystyrene nanoplastics entered the cochlea of mice, HEI-OC1 cells, and lateral line hair cells of zebrafish, causing cellular injury and increasing apoptosis. Additionally, we found that exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics resulted in a significant elevation in the auditory brainstem response thresholds, a loss of auditory sensory hair cells, stereocilia degeneration and a decrease in expression of Claudin-5 and Occludin proteins at the blood-lymphatic barrier in mice. We also observed a significant decrease in the acoustic alarm response of zebrafish after exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics. Mechanistic analysis revealed that polystyrene nanoplastics induced up-regulation of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, increased levels of malondialdehyde, and decreased superoxide dismutase and catalase levels in cochlea and HEI-OC1 cells. Furthermore, we observed that the expression of ferroptosis-related indicators GPX4 and SLC7A11 decreased as well as increased expression of ACLS4 in cochlea and HEI-OC1 cells. This study also revealed that polystyrene nanoplastics exposure led to increased expression of the inflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-1β and COX2 in cochlea and HEI-OC1 cells. Further research found that the cell apoptosis, ferroptosis and inflammatory reactions induced by polystyrene nanoplastics in HEI-OC1 cells was reversed through the pretreatment with N-acetylcysteine, a reactive oxygen species inhibitor. Overall, our study first discovered and systematically revealed the ototoxicity of polystyrene nanoplastics and its underlying mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuancheng Wu
- Hearing and Speech Rehabilitation Institute, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Lianzhen Li
- College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lihuan Tang
- Hearing and Speech Rehabilitation Institute, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Willie Peijnenburg
- Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML), Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- National Institute of Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Center for Safety of Substances and Products, Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Huangruici Zhang
- Hearing and Speech Rehabilitation Institute, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Daoli Xie
- Hearing and Speech Rehabilitation Institute, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Ruishuang Geng
- Hearing and Speech Rehabilitation Institute, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Tihua Zheng
- Hearing and Speech Rehabilitation Institute, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Liyan Bi
- Hearing and Speech Rehabilitation Institute, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Xiaodan Wei
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Han-jung Chae
- School of Pharmacy, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Lan Wang
- Hearing and Speech Rehabilitation Institute, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Li Zhao
- Hearing and Speech Rehabilitation Institute, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Bo Li
- Hearing and Speech Rehabilitation Institute, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Qingyin Zheng
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Ye R, Li Z, Xian H, Zhong Y, Liang B, Huang Y, Chen D, Dai M, Tang S, Guo J, Bai R, Feng Y, Chen Z, Yang X, Huang Z. Combined Effects of Polystyrene Nanosphere and Homosolate Exposures on Estrogenic End Points in MCF-7 Cells and Zebrafish. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2024; 132:27011. [PMID: 38381479 PMCID: PMC10880820 DOI: 10.1289/ehp13696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) and homosalate (HMS) are ubiquitous emerging environmental contaminants detected in human samples. Despite the well-established endocrine-disrupting effects (EDEs) of HMS, the interaction between MNPs and HMS and its impact on HMS-induced EDEs remain unclear. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the influence of MNPs on HMS-induced estrogenic effects and elucidate the underlying mechanisms in vitro and in vivo. METHODS We assessed the impact of polystyrene nanospheres (PNSs; 50 nm , 1.0 mg / L ) on HMS-induced MCF-7 cell proliferation (HMS: 0.01 - 1 μ M , equivalent to 2.62 - 262 μ g / L ) using the E-SCREEN assay and explored potential mechanisms through transcriptomics. Adult zebrafish were exposed to HMS (0.0262 - 262 μ g / L ) with or without PNSs (50 nm , 1.0 mg / L ) for 21 d. EDEs were evaluated through gonadal histopathology, fertility tests, steroid hormone synthesis, and gene expression changes in the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad-liver (HPGL) axis. RESULTS Coexposure of HMS and PNSs resulted in higher expression of estrogen receptor α (ESR1) and the mRNAs of target genes (pS2, AREG, and PGR), a greater estrogen-responsive element transactivation activity, and synergistic stimulation on MCF-7 cell proliferation. Knockdown of serum and glucocorticoid-regulated kinase 1 (SGK1) rescued the MCF-7 cell proliferation induced by PNSs alone or in combination with HMS. In zebrafish, coexposure showed higher expression of SGK1 and promoted ovary development but inhibited spermatogenesis. In addition, coexposure led to lower egg hatchability, higher embryonic mortality, and greater larval malformation. Coexposure also modulated steroid hormone synthesis genes (cyp17a2, hsd17[Formula: see text]1, esr2b, vtg1, and vtg2), and resulted in higher 17 β -estradiol (E 2 ) release in females. Conversely, males showed lower testosterone, E 2 , and gene expressions of cyp11a1, cyp11a2, cyp17a1, cyp17a2, and hsd17[Formula: see text]1. DISCUSSION PNS exposure exacerbated HMS-induced estrogenic effects via SGK1 up-regulation in MCF-7 cells and disrupting the HPGL axis in zebrafish, with gender-specific patterns. This offers new mechanistic insights and health implications of MNP and contaminant coexposure. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP13696.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rongyi Ye
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiming Li
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongyi Xian
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yizhou Zhong
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Boxuan Liang
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuji Huang
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Da Chen
- College of Environment and Climate, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | | | - Shuqin Tang
- College of Environment and Climate, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Guo
- Hunter Biotechnology, Inc, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ruobing Bai
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Feng
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenguo Chen
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xingfen Yang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Food Safety and Health Research Center, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenlie Huang
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Zurub RE, Cariaco Y, Wade MG, Bainbridge SA. Microplastics exposure: implications for human fertility, pregnancy and child health. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 14:1330396. [PMID: 38239985 PMCID: PMC10794604 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1330396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastics found in our everyday environment are becoming an increasing concern for individual and population-level health, and the extent of exposure and potential toxic effects of these contaminants on numerous human organ systems are becoming clear. Microplastics (MPs), tiny plastic particles, appear to have many of the same biological effects as their plastic precursors and have the compounded effect of potential accumulation in different organs. Recently, microplastic accumulation was observed in the human placenta, raising important questions related to the biological effects of these contaminants on the health of pregnancies and offspring. These concerns are particularly heightened considering the developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD) framework, which postulates that in utero exposure can programme the lifelong health of the offspring. The current review examines the state of knowledge on this topic and highlights important avenues for future investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rewa E. Zurub
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Yusmaris Cariaco
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Michael G. Wade
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Shannon A. Bainbridge
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Rao G, Qiao B, Zhong G, Li T, Su Q, Wu S, Tang Z, Hu L. Arsenic and polystyrene-nano plastics co-exposure induced testicular toxicity: Triggers oxidative stress and promotes apoptosis and inflammation in mice. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2024; 39:264-276. [PMID: 37705229 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23970] [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: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Co-existing of polystyrene-nano plastics (PSNPs) and arsenic (As) in the environment caused a horrendous risk to human health. However, the potential mechanism of PSNPs and As combination induced testicular toxicity in mammals has not been elucidated. Therefore, we first explore the testicular toxicity and the potential mechanism in male Kunming mice exposed to As or/and PSNPs. Results revealed that compared to the As or PSNPs group, the combined group showed more significant testicular toxicity. Specifically, As and PSNPs combination induced irregular spermatozoa array and blood-testis barrier disruption. Simultaneously, As and PSNPs co-exposure also exacerbated oxidative stress, including increasing the MDA content, and down-regulating expression of Nrf-2, HO-1, SOD-1, and Trx. PSNPs and As combination also triggered testicular apoptosis, containing changes in apoptotic factors (P53, Bax, Bcl-2, Cytc, Caspase-8, Caspase-9, and Caspase-3). Furthermore, co-exposed to As and PSNPs aggravated inflammatory damage characterized by targeted phosphorylation of NF-κB and degradation of I-κB. In summary, our results strongly confirmed As + PSNPs co-exposure induced the synergistic toxicity of testis through excessive oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation, which could offer a new sight into the mechanism of environmental pollutants co-exposure induced male reproductive toxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gan Rao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- National Canine Laboratory Animal Resources Center, Guangzhou General Pharmaceutical Research Institute Co., Ltd., Guangzhou, China
| | - Baoxin Qiao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gaolong Zhong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tong Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qian Su
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shaofeng Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhaoxin Tang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lianmei Hu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Wang Z, Liu S, Cheng Z, Xu G, Li F, Bu Q, Zhang L, Song Y, An X. Endoplasmic reticulum stress exacerbates microplastics-induced toxicity in animal cells. Food Res Int 2024; 175:113818. [PMID: 38129015 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2023.113818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Human and animal exposure to microplastics (MPs) contained in food is inevitable because of their widespread existence in the environment. Nevertheless, MPs toxicity studies in ruminants often lack attention. Here, we assessed the cytotoxicity of polystyrene microplastics (PS MPs) on goat mammary epithelial cells (GMECs). Compared to controls, PS MPs treatment significantly reduced cell viability, altered cell morphology and disrupted organelle integrity. Detection of membrane potential and reactive oxygen species (ROS) suggested that PS MPs induced mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. Further transcriptome analysis also confirmed alterations in these pathways. In addition, several genes related to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis were significantly regulated in the transcriptional profile. Subsequent experiments confirmed that PS MPs induce ER stress via the PERK/eIF2α/CHOP pathway, accompanied by intracellular Ca2+ overload. Meanwhile, downstream activation of the Bax/Bcl-2 pathway and caspase cascade released apoptotic signals, which led to apoptosis in GMECs. Interestingly, the addition of PERK inhibitor (ISRIB) attenuated PS MPs-induced ER stress and apoptosis, which suggests that ER stress may exacerbate PS MPs-induced cytotoxicity. This work reveals the impact of MPs on mammalian cytotoxicity, enriches the mechanisms for the toxicity of MPs, and provides insight for further assessment of the risk of MPs in food.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhanhang Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Shujuan Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Zefang Cheng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Ganggang Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Fu Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Qiqi Bu
- Bioengineering College, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Yuxuan Song
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Xiaopeng An
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
He Y, Yin R. The reproductive and transgenerational toxicity of microplastics and nanoplastics: A threat to mammalian fertility in both sexes. J Appl Toxicol 2024; 44:66-85. [PMID: 37382358 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are extensively distributed in the environment. However, a comprehensive review and in-depth discussion on the effects of MPs and NPs to reproductive capacity and transgenerational toxicity on mammals, especially on humans, is lacked. It is suggested that microplastics and nanoplastics could accumulate in mammalian reproductive organs and exert toxic effects on the reproductive system for both sexes. For males, the damage of microplastics consists of abnormal testicular and sperm structure, decreased sperm vitality, and endocrine disruption, which were caused by oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis of testicular cells, autophagy, abnormal cytoskeleton, and abnormal hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis. For females, the damage of microplastics includes abnormal ovary and uterus structure and endocrine disruption, which were caused by oxidative stress, inflammation, granulosa cell apoptosis, hypothalamic-pituitary-ovary axis abnormalities, and tissue fibrosis. For transgenerational toxicity, premature mortality existed in the rodent offspring after maternal exposure to microplastics. Among the surviving offspring, metabolic disorders, reproductive dysfunction, immune, neurodevelopmental, and cognitive disorders were detected, and these events directly correlated with transgenerational translocation of MPs and NPs. Studies on human-derived cells or organoids demonstrated that transgenerational toxicity studies for both sexes are yet in the phase of exploring suitable experimental models, and more detailed research on the threat of MPs and NPs to human fertility is still urgently needed. Further studies will help assess the MPs and NPs threat to public fertility and reproductive health risks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuchong He
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology of Jiangxi Provincial, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Ruocheng Yin
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Hong Y, Wu S, Wei G. Adverse effects of microplastics and nanoplastics on the reproductive system: A comprehensive review of fertility and potential harmful interactions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 903:166258. [PMID: 37579804 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) have caused ubiquitous environmental pollution and raised widespread concern about their potential toxicity to human health, especially in the reproductive system. Moreover, infertility affects >15 % of couples worldwide, and the birth rate is decreasing. Environmental factors are some of the most important causes of infertility. However, little is known about the effects of MPs and NPs on the testes and ovaries. These particles can enter the body primarily via ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact, target the reproductive system in a size-dependent manner and disturb germ cell and other somatic cell development. Our study systematically reviewed the adverse effects of plastic particles on reproductive function and offers valuable insights into the different stages of germ cells and the potential mechanisms. Moreover, the synergistic reproductive toxicity of these particles and carried contaminants was summarized. Given the limited research scale, a shift toward innovative technologies and the adoption of multiple omics are recommended for advancing related studies. Further study is needed to explore the reproductive toxicity of MPs and NPs based on their size, polymer type, shape, and carried toxins, establish effective protective measures, and develop precision medicine for targeted reproductive damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Hong
- Department of Urology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China; Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China
| | - Shengde Wu
- Department of Urology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China.
| | - Guanghui Wei
- Department of Urology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Children Urogenital Development and Tissue Engineering, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400014, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Ge Y, Yang S, Zhang T, Wan X, Zhu Y, Yang F, Yin L, Pu Y, Liang G. The hepatotoxicity assessment of micro/nanoplastics: A preliminary study to apply the adverse outcome pathways. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 902:165659. [PMID: 37517720 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution has become a significant global problem over the years, leading to the continuous decomposition and accumulation of micro/nanoplastics (MNPLs) in the environment. As a result, human exposure to these MNPLs is inevitable. The liver, in particular, is highly susceptible to potential MNPL toxicity. In this study, we systematically reviewed the current literature on MNPLs-induced hepatotoxicity and collected data on toxic events occurring at different biological levels. Then, to better understand the cause-mechanism causality, we developed an Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) framework for MNPLs-induced hepatotoxicity. The AOP framework provided insights into the mechanism of MNPL-induced hepatotoxicity and highlighted potential health risks such as liver dysfunction and inflammation, metabolism disorders and liver fibrosis. Moreover, we discussed the potential application of emerging toxicological models in the hepatotoxicity study. Liver organoids and liver-on-chips, which can simulate the structure and function of the liver in vitro, offer a promising alternative platform for toxicity testing and risk assessment. We proposed combining the AOP framework with these emerging toxicological models to improve our understanding of the hepatotoxic effects of MNPLs. Overall, this study performed a preliminary exploration of novel toxicological methodologies to assess the hepatotoxicity of MNPLs, providing a deeper understanding of environmental toxicology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiling Ge
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Sheng Yang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Tianyi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Xin Wan
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Yuxin Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Fei Yang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, The Key Laboratory of Typical Environmental Pollution and Health Hazards of Hunan Province, School of Basic Medicine, School of Public Health, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, PR China.
| | - Lihong Yin
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China.
| | - Yuepu Pu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China.
| | - Geyu Liang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Sharma A, Kaur M, Sharma K, Bunkar SK, John P, Bhatnagar P. Nano polystyrene induced changes in anxiety and learning behaviour are mediated through oxidative stress and gene disturbance in mouse brain regions. Neurotoxicology 2023; 99:139-151. [PMID: 37865141 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2023.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
It is widely reported now that nanoplastic particles have potential neurotoxic effects and may disturb central nervous system (CNS) function. However, the mechanism behind these toxic effects still needs to be elucidated. In the current study, we investigated the effects of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) on changes in learning, memory, and anxiety-related behavior in mice based on some selected biochemical, molecular, and histopathological changes in three important brain regions (Cortex, Hypothalamus, and Hippocampus). Male mice were orally administered daily with two doses of 50 nm PS-NPs (0.2 mg/ml and 1 mg/ml) for 8 weeks. We observed decreased expression of neurotransmitter-related genes (VAChT, GAD, and SYP) in the cortex, hypothalamus, and hippocampus areas of the mouse brain. Other biochemical variables including, antioxidant enzymes, biomarkers for oxidative stress, and acetylcholinesterase activity showed significant alterations in all three brain regions. Molecular and neurochemical data thus suggest significant neurobehavioral changes following sub-chronic exposure to PS-NPs which may lead to enhanced anxiety-related and spatial learning and memory-related impairments by affecting limbic areas of the brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anju Sharma
- Department of Zoology, IIS (deemed to be University), Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.
| | - Manjyot Kaur
- Department of Zoology, IIS (deemed to be University), Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Kirti Sharma
- Department of Zoology, IIS (deemed to be University), Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | | | - Placheril John
- Department of Zoology, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Pradeep Bhatnagar
- Department of Zoology, IIS (deemed to be University), Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Xing Y, Li J, Yang J, Li J, Pang W, Martin FL, Xu L. Application of spectrochemical analysis with chemometrics to profile biochemical alterations in nanoplastic-exposed HepG 2 cells. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 336:122309. [PMID: 37543068 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Humans are routinely exposed to nanoplastics (NPs) in various ways, and this exposure presents a significant health risk. Nevertheless, there remain gaps in our knowledge, particularly in the mechanisms of toxicity of NPs with different surface charges at very low environmental concentrations. Herein, a spectrochemical approach was used to profile the cytotoxicity of NPs with different surface charges in HepG2 cells. It was found that all three NPs can cause some biomolecular alterations in cells, affecting cellular lipids, proteins, amino acids, and genetic material. Of these, PS and PS-COOH led to a non-linear dose-response, which may be related to a biphasic dose-response, whereas PS-NH2 led to a linear dose-response with a gradual increase in toxicity with increasing exposure concentration. In addition, the spectroscopic results showed that surface modifications led to cellular biochemical changes and caused adverse biological effects, with PS-NH2 exhibiting higher toxicity compared to PS or PS-COOH along with an inhibition of cell proliferation. Surprisingly PS-COOH, although considered the least toxic NP, appears to cause DNA damage. Overall, the toxic effects of different surface-modified NPs in cells were detected for the first time by applying spectrochemical techniques, and these findings provide important data towards understanding the emerging widespread environmental pollution of NPs and their effects on humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Xing
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, 100097, China
| | - Jing Li
- Key Laboratory of Ecosystem Network Observation and Modeling, Institute of Geographical Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Jingjing Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicinal Resources Industrialization, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Junyi Li
- National University of Singapore (Suzhou) Research Institute, Suzhou, 215128, China
| | - Weiyi Pang
- School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541199, China
| | - Francis L Martin
- Biocel Ltd, Hull, HU10 7TS, UK; Department of Cellular Pathology, Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Whinney Heys Road, Blackpool, FY3 8NR, UK
| | - Li Xu
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, 100097, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Leso V, Battistini B, Vetrani I, Reppuccia L, Fedele M, Ruggieri F, Bocca B, Iavicoli I. The endocrine disrupting effects of nanoplastic exposure: A systematic review. Toxicol Ind Health 2023; 39:613-629. [PMID: 37753827 DOI: 10.1177/07482337231203053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Good mechanical properties and low costs have led to a global expansion of plastic production and use. Unfortunately, much of this material can be released into the environment as a waste product and cleaved into micro- and nanoplastics (NPs) whose impact on the environment and human health is still largely unknown. Considering the growing worldwide awareness on exposure to chemicals that can act as endocrine disruptors, a systematic review was performed to assess the impact of NPs on the endocrine function of in vitro and in vivo models. Although a limited number of investigations is currently available, retrieved findings showed that NPs may induce changes in endocrine system functionality, with evident alterations in reproductive and thyroid hormones and gene expression patterns, also with a trans-generational impact. Nanoplastic size, concentration, and the co-exposure to other endocrine disrupting pollutants may have an influencing role on these effects. Overall, although it is still too early to draw conclusions regarding the human health risks derived from NPs, these preliminary results support the need for further studies employing a wider range of plastic polymer types, concentrations, and time points as well as species and life stages to address a great variety of endocrine outcomes and to achieve a broader and shared consensus on the role of NPs as endocrine disruptors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Veruscka Leso
- Department of Public Health, Section of Occupational Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Beatrice Battistini
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Vetrani
- Department of Public Health, Section of Occupational Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Liberata Reppuccia
- Department of Public Health, Section of Occupational Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Mauro Fedele
- Department of Public Health, Section of Occupational Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Flavia Ruggieri
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Beatrice Bocca
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Ivo Iavicoli
- Department of Public Health, Section of Occupational Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Silva MG, Oliveira MM, Peixoto F. Assessing micro and nanoplastics toxicity using rodent models: Investigating potential mitochondrial implications. Toxicology 2023; 499:153656. [PMID: 37879514 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2023.153656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondria's role as a central hub in cellular metabolism and signaling cascades is well established in the scientific community, being a classic marker of organisms' response to toxicant exposure. Nonetheless, little is known concerning the effects of emerging contaminants, such as microplastics, on mitochondrial metabolism. Micro- and nanoplastics present one of the major problems faced by modern societies. What was once an environmental problem is now recognized as an one-health issue, but little is known concerning microplastic impact on human health. Indeed, only recently, human exposure to microplastics was acknowledged by the World Health Organization, resulting in a growing interest in this research topic. Nonetheless, the mechanisms behind micro- and nanoplastics toxicity are yet to be understood. Animal models, nowadays, are the most appropriate approach to uncovering this knowledge gap. In the present review article, we explore investigations from the last two years using rodent models and reach to find the molecular mechanism behind micro- and nanoplastics toxicity and if mitochondria can act as a target. Although no research article has addressed the effects of mitochondria yet, reports have highlighted molecular and biochemical alterations that could be linked to mitochondrial function. Furthermore, certain studies described the effects of disruptions in mitochondrial metabolism, such as oxidative stress. Micro- and nanoplastics may, directly and indirectly, affect this vital organelle. Investigations concerning this topic should be encouraged once they can bring us closer to understanding the mechanisms underlying these particles' harmful effects on human health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mónica G Silva
- Chemistry Research Centre (CQ-VR), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal.
| | - Maria Manuel Oliveira
- Chemistry Research Centre (CQ-VR), Chemistry Department, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Francisco Peixoto
- Chemistry Research Centre (CQ-VR), Biology and Environment Department University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Das A. The emerging role of microplastics in systemic toxicity: Involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 895:165076. [PMID: 37391150 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental threats the world is facing currently. The degradation of macroplastics into smaller forms viz. microplastics (MPs) or Nanoplastics (NPs) is a potential threat to both terrestrial and marine ecosystems and also to human health by directly affecting the organs and activating a plethora of intracellular signaling, that may lead to cell death. There is accumulating evidence that supports the serious toxicity caused by MP/NPs at all levels of biological complexities (biomolecules, organelles, cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems) and the involvement of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) in this process. Studies indicate that MPs or NPs can accumulate in mitochondria and further disrupt the mitochondrial electron transport chain, cause mitochondrial membrane damage, and perturb the mitochondrial membrane potential or depolarization of the mitochondria. These events eventually lead to the generation of different types of reactive free radicals, which can induce DNA damage, protein oxidation, lipid peroxidation, and compromization of the antioxidant defense pool. Furthermore, MP-induced ROS was found to trigger a plethora of signaling cascades, such as the p53 signaling pathway, Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) signaling pathway including the c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK), p38 kinase, and extracellular signal related kinases (ERK1/2) signaling cascades, Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-pathway, Phosphatidylinositol-3-kinases (PI3Ks)/Akt signaling pathway, and Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) pathways, to name a few. As a consequence of oxidative stress caused by the MPs/NPs, different types of organ damage are observed in living species, including humans, such as pulmonary toxicity, cardiotoxicity, neurotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, immunotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, hepatotoxicity, etc. Although presently, a good amount of research is going on to access the detrimental effects of MPs/NPs on human health, there is a lack of proper model systems, multi-omics approaches, interdisciplinary research, and mitigation strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amlan Das
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Biosciences, The Assam Royal Global University, NH-37, opp. Tirupati Balaji Temple, Betkuchi, Guwahati, Assam 781035, India.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Baş O, İlhan H, Hancı H, Çelikkan H, Ekinci D, Değermenci M, Karapınar BO, Warille AA, Çankaya S, Özkasapoğlu S. To what extent are orally ingested nanoplastics toxic to the hippocampus in young adult rats? J Chem Neuroanat 2023; 132:102314. [PMID: 37473873 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2023.102314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
As the use of plastic-containing materials in our daily lives becomes increasingly common, exposure to nanoplastics accordingly becomes inevitable. Micro and nanoplastics released from large amounts of plastic waste constitute a serious environmental problem. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the effects of polystyrene nanoplastic (PS-NP) on the hippocampus. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Thirty Wistar albino rats, 15 male and 15 female, aged 6-8 weeks, were used in the research. These were randomly divided into three groups of five males and five females each. A five-minute open field test was applied to all rats on the first and last days of the study. Three groups of rats (Control, NP1 and NP2) received the standard chow and water. Additionally, rats in the first neoplastic group (NP1) received 25 mg/kg PS-NP and rats in the second nanoplastic group (NP2) received 50 mg/kg PS-NP, at the same time each day by oral gavage. The rats were sacrificed under deep anesthesia at the end of four weeks. The hippocampi were removed and subjected to histopathological and biochemical analyses. RESULTS: Green fluorescent dots were detected in the hippocampi of both dose groups receiving nanoplastics (NPs) administered orally to female and male rats. Histopathological examination revealed neuronal degeneration in the hippocampi of male and female rats from both dose groups. However, while no significant difference was observed among the groups in terms of changes in antioxidant enzyme values and open-field test data in male rats, significant differences in peroxidase (POD) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) values and fecal boli and grooming numbers were determined in female rats exposed to NPs. In conclusion, exposure to NP substances extend as far as the hippocampus, causing neuronal damage and behavioral problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Orhan Baş
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Samsun University, Samsun, Turkey.
| | - Hasan İlhan
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Ordu University, Ordu, Turkey
| | - Hatice Hancı
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Ordu University, Ordu, Turkey
| | - Hüseyin Çelikkan
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Deniz Ekinci
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | | | - Burak Oğuzhan Karapınar
- Department of Medical Services and Techniques, Vocational School of Health Services, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Aymen A Warille
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Soner Çankaya
- Department of Sports Management, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Sezgin Özkasapoğlu
- Turkish Energy, Nuclear and Mineral Research Agency Boron Research Institute, Ankara, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Huang J, Sun X, Wang Y, Su J, Li G, Wang X, Yang Y, Zhang Y, Li B, Zhang G, Li J, Du J, Nanjundappa RH, Umeshappa CS, Shao K. Biological interactions of polystyrene nanoplastics: Their cytotoxic and immunotoxic effects on the hepatic and enteric systems. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 264:115447. [PMID: 37690176 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
As emerging pollutants in the environment, nanoplastics (NPs) can cross biological barriers and be enriched in organisms, posing a greatest threat to the health of livestock and humans. However, the size-dependent toxic effects of NPs in higher mammals remain largely unknown. To determine the size-dependent potential toxicities of NPs, we exposed mouse (AML-12) and human (L02) liver cell lines in vitro, and 6-week-old C57BL/6 mice (well-known preclinical model) in vivo to five different sizes of polystyrene NPs (PS-NPs) (20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 nm). We found that ultra-small NPs (20 nm) induced the highest cytotoxicity in mouse and human liver cell lines, causing oxidative stress and mitochondrial membrane potential loss on AML-12 cells. Unexpectedly in vivo, after long-term oral exposure to PS-NPs (75 mg/kg), medium NPs (200 nm) and large NPs (500 nm) induced significant hepatotoxicity, evidenced by increased oxidative stress, liver dysfunction, and lipid metabolism disorders. Most importantly, medium or large NPs generated local immunotoxic effects via recruiting and activating more numbers of neutrophils and monocytes in the liver or intestine, which potentially resulted in increased proinflammatory cytokine secretion and the tissue damage. The discrepancy in in vitro-in vivo toxic results might be attributed to the different properties of biodistribution and tissue accumulation of different sized NPs in vivo. Our study provides new insights regarding the hepatotoxicity and immunotoxicity of NPs on human and livestock health, warranting us to take immense measures to prevent these NPs-associated health damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiahao Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Xinbo Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Yang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Jianlong Su
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Guangzhe Li
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Xu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Yuning Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Yuxuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Bangjian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Guanyi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Jinrong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Jing Du
- Liaoning Ocean and Fisheries Science Research Institute, 50# Heishijiao Road, Shahekou District, Dalian 116023, China
| | | | - Channakeshava Sokke Umeshappa
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, IWK Research Center, Halifax, NS, Canada.
| | - Kun Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Yang Z, DeLoid GM, Zarbl H, Baw J, Demokritou P. Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) and their potential toxicological outcomes: State of science, knowledge gaps and research needs. NANOIMPACT 2023; 32:100481. [PMID: 37717636 PMCID: PMC10841092 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2023.100481] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Plastic waste has been produced at a rapidly growing rate over the past several decades. The environmental impacts of plastic waste on marine and terrestrial ecosystems have been recognized for years. Recently, researchers found that micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs), micron (100 nm - 5 mm) and nanometer (1 - 100 nm) scale particles and fibers produced by degradation and fragmentation of plastic waste in the environment, have become an important emerging environmental and food chain contaminant with uncertain consequences for human health. This review provides a comprehensive summary of recent findings from studies of potential toxicity and adverse health impacts of MNPs in terrestrial mammals, including studies in both in vitro cellular and in vivo mammalian models. Also reviewed here are recently released biomonitoring studies that have characterized the bioaccumulation, biodistribution, and excretion of MNPs in humans. The majority MNPs in the environment to which humans are most likely to be exposed, are of irregular shapes, varied sizes, and mixed compositions, and are defined as secondary MNPs. However, the MNPs used in most toxicity studies to date were commercially available primary MNPs of polystyrene (PS), polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and other polymers. The emerging in vitro and in vivo evidence reviewed here suggests that MNP toxicity and bioactivity are largely determined by MNP particle physico-chemical characteristics, including size, shape, polymer type, and surface properties. For human exposure, MNPs have been identified in human blood, urine, feces, and placenta, which pose potential health risks. The evidence to date suggests that the mechanisms underlying MNP toxicity at the cellular level are primarily driven by oxidative stress. Nonetheless, large knowledge gaps in our understanding of MNP toxicity and the potential health impacts of MNP exposures still exist and much further study is needed to bridge those gaps. This includes human population exposure studies to determine the environmentally relevant MNP polymers and exposure concentrations and durations for toxicity studies, as well as toxicity studies employing environmentally relevant MNPs, with surface chemistries and other physico-chemical properties consistent with MNP particles in the environment. It is especially important to obtain comprehensive toxicological data for these MNPs to understand the range and extent of potential adverse impacts of microplastic pollutants on humans and other organisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenning Yang
- Nanoscience and Advanced Materials Center, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Glen M DeLoid
- Nanoscience and Advanced Materials Center, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Helmut Zarbl
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Joshua Baw
- Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Philip Demokritou
- Nanoscience and Advanced Materials Center, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Lu C, Liang Y, Cheng Y, Peng C, Sun Y, Liu K, Li Y, Lou Y, Jiang X, Zhang A, Liu J, Cao J, Han F. Microplastics cause reproductive toxicity in male mice through inducing apoptosis of spermatogenic cells via p53 signaling. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 179:113970. [PMID: 37506861 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.113970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies on male reproductive toxicity of microplastics are still scarce and the precise mechanism is not distinct. METHODS C57BL/6 male mice were given oral gavage treatments treated with 5 μm (MPs) and 80 nm (NPs) polystyrene microplastics every day for 60 consecutive days in a row at dosages of 0, 10 and 40 mg/kg/d. The major damage of MPs and NPs were assessed by the assays in vivo and in vitro. Transcriptome sequencing was applied to screen the key involved pathways. RESULTS In the 10 mg/kg/d NPs group, there was an increase in testicular organ coefficient, and in the 40 mg/kg/d MPs group, an increase in epididymal weight was observed. Vacuolization of spermatogenic cell layer, interstitial congestion, and germ cell apoptosis were found in the testes of MPs and NPs treatment mice at different dose groups. Higher apoptosis rate was observed in GC-2 cells after MPs and NPs treatment at different concentrations. Transcriptome analysis suggested that p53 pathway might be the key signal pathway of the cell apoptosis, and the expressions of p53 and other markers of cell apoptosis were indeed altered after exposure to MPs and NPs. CONCLUSIONS MPs and NPs can cause reproductive toxicity in male mice through inducing apoptosis of spermatogenic cells via p53 signaling pathway, indicating MPs and NPs exposure be an unnegligible risk factor for reproductive health in male mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunsheng Lu
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China; School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Yuehui Liang
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China; School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430064, China
| | - Ya Cheng
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China; School of Public Health and Management, Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Disease Control, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750003, China
| | - Chan Peng
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Yuanyuan Sun
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China; College of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, China
| | - Kangle Liu
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yingqing Li
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yixia Lou
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Xiao Jiang
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Aihua Zhang
- School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Jinyi Liu
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Jia Cao
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Fei Han
- Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China; School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Dube E, Okuthe GE. Plastics and Micro/Nano-Plastics (MNPs) in the Environment: Occurrence, Impact, and Toxicity. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6667. [PMID: 37681807 PMCID: PMC10488176 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20176667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Plastics, due to their varied properties, find use in different sectors such as agriculture, packaging, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and construction, to mention a few. Excessive use of plastics results in a lot of plastic waste buildup. Poorly managed plastic waste (as shown by heaps of plastic waste on dumpsites, in free spaces, along roads, and in marine systems) and the plastic in landfills, are just a fraction of the plastic waste in the environment. A complete picture should include the micro and nano-plastics (MNPs) in the hydrosphere, biosphere, lithosphere, and atmosphere, as the current extreme weather conditions (which are effects of climate change), wear and tear, and other factors promote MNP formation. MNPs pose a threat to the environment more than their pristine counterparts. This review highlights the entry and occurrence of primary and secondary MNPs in the soil, water and air, together with their aging. Furthermore, the uptake and internalization, by plants, animals, and humans are discussed, together with their toxicity effects. Finally, the future perspective and conclusion are given. The material utilized in this work was acquired from published articles and the internet using keywords such as plastic waste, degradation, microplastic, aging, internalization, and toxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edith Dube
- Department of Biological & Environmental Sciences, Walter Sisulu University, Mthatha 5117, South Africa;
| | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Geng Y, Liu Z, Hu R, Huang Y, Li F, Ma W, Wu X, Dong H, Song K, Xu X, Zhang Z, Song Y. Toxicity of microplastics and nanoplastics: invisible killers of female fertility and offspring health. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1254886. [PMID: 37700763 PMCID: PMC10493312 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1254886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are emergent pollutants, which have sparked widespread concern. They can infiltrate the body via ingestion, inhalation, and cutaneous contact. As such, there is a general worry that MPs/NPs may have an impact on human health in addition to the environmental issues they engender. The threat of MPs/NPs to the liver, gastrointestinal system, and inflammatory levels have been thoroughly documented in the previous research. With the detection of MPs/NPs in fetal compartment and the prevalence of infertility, an increasing number of studies have put an emphasis on their reproductive toxicity in female. Moreover, MPs/NPs have the potential to interact with other contaminants, thus enhancing or diminishing the combined toxicity. This review summarizes the deleterious effects of MPs/NPs and co-exposure with other pollutants on female throughout the reproduction period of various species, spanning from reproductive failure to cross-generational developmental disorders in progenies. Although these impacts may not be directly extrapolated to humans, they do provide a framework for evaluating the potential mechanisms underlying the reproductive toxicity of MPs/NPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuli Geng
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhuo Liu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Runan Hu
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanjing Huang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fan Li
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenwen Ma
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao Wu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Haoxu Dong
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kunkun Song
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaohu Xu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhuo Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yufan Song
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Xu W, Yuan Y, Tian Y, Cheng C, Chen Y, Zeng L, Yuan Y, Li D, Zheng L, Luo T. Oral exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics reduced male fertility and even caused male infertility by inducing testicular and sperm toxicities in mice. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 454:131470. [PMID: 37116333 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) are the novel hazardous materials and ubiquitous in environment with different sizes. Although recent studies showed testicular toxicity of PS-NPs, whether and how NPs affect male fertility and whether they have the size-dependent effect remain ambiguous in mammals. In this study, the male mice were orally exposed to 25-, 50-, and 100-nm polystyrene NPs (PS-NPs) for 56 days. All three sized PS-NPs reduced male fertility and even caused male infertility. They accumulated in the testes, induced oxidative stress, affected the expression of apoptosis- and inflammation-related genes, and compromised energy metabolism, resulting in damaged testicular microstructure and functions. PS-NPs caused more severe testicular toxicity in infertile mice than in fertile mice. In addition, PS-NPs inhibited sperm capacitation and capacitation-dependent processes in infertile mice but not in fertile mice. In infertile mice, PS-NPs reduced the sperm levels of two Rho GTPases (RAC1 and CDC42) via increasing their ubiquitination levels and diminished sperm filamentous actin polymerization, thus inhibiting sperm capacitation. However, these testicular and sperm toxicities showed no size-dependent effect among three sized PS-NPs. In conclusion, PS-NPs inhibit male fertility by their multifaceted toxicity on testes and sperm in mice, providing novel insights into reproductive risks of NPs to mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenqing Xu
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Yangyang Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Yan Tian
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Cheng Cheng
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Lianjie Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Dandan Li
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Liping Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China
| | - Tao Luo
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330031, China.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Jaafarzadeh Haghighi Fard N, Mohammadi MJ, Jahedi F. Effects of nano and microplastics on the reproduction system: In vitro and in vivo studies review. Food Chem Toxicol 2023:113938. [PMID: 37429406 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.113938] [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: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs), as their name suggest, are tiny plastic particles. The negative impact of MPs as an emerging pollutant on humans is not hidden from anyone. Recent research on how this pollutant affects the reproductive system and how it enters the blood, placenta, and semen has attracted the attention of scientists. This review study deals with the reproductive toxicity of MPs particles in terrestrial animals, aquatic animals, soil fauna, human cells, and human placenta. In vitro and in vivo animal studies showed that MPs can lead to reduced fertility in men, reduced ovarian capacity, apoptosis of granulosa cells, or even reduced sperm motility. They cause oxidative stress and cell apoptosis and inflammatory effects. The results of these animal studies show that MPs may have similar effects on the human reproductive system. However, not much research has been done on human reproductive toxicity by MPs. Therefore, special attention should be paid to the toxicity of the reproductive system by MPs. The purpose of this comprehensive study is to express the importance of the impact of MPs on the reproductive system. These results provide new insight into the potential dangers of MPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neamatollah Jaafarzadeh Haghighi Fard
- Environmental Technologies Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Javad Mohammadi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Faezeh Jahedi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Student Research Committee, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Zhang M, Shi J, Zhou J, Song L, Ding J, Deng HP, Weng L, Zhu Y, Xu Z. N6-methyladenosine methylation mediates non-coding RNAs modification in microplastic-induced cardiac injury. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 262:115174. [PMID: 37354568 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Owing to their potential adverse health effects, global contamination by microplastics (MPs) has attracted increased scientific and societal concerns. However, in vivo studies on MP toxicity, along with its effects and underlying mechanisms, remain limited. We recently found that non-coding RNA (ncRNAs) contribute to MP-mediated vascular toxicity. Moreover, previous studies have identified N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications in ncRNAs as influencing factors in cardiovascular disease. However, whether and how m6A modifications in ncRNAs are affected by MP-induced cardiotoxicity remain unknown. Herein, we profiled differentially expressed ncRNAs and their related m6A modification profiles in MP-exposed myocardial tissue using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq). First, we observed that MPs accumulated in different organs and upregulated apoptosis in the heart, liver, spleen, and kidney cells. Furthermore, total m6A and METTL3 levels increased in the myocardium after exposure to MPs. RNA-seq results revealed that 392 lncRNAs and 302 circRNAs were differentially expressed in MP-treated mouse myocardium compared to the control group. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses showed that these altered lncRNAs and circRNAs were closely associated with endocytosis, cellular senescence, and cell cycle signaling pathways, which may cause cardiotoxicity. Furthermore, MeRIP-seq data showed different distributions and abundances of m6A modifications in lncRNAs and circRNAs. Additionally, we identified differentially m6A methylated lncRNAs and circRNAs through conjoint analysis of the two high-throughput sequencing datasets and found that both m6A modifications and the expression of circ-Arfgef2 and lncG3bp2 were upregulated after exposure to MPs. This suggests that MP-induced m6A modifications in ncRNAs are involved in cardiotoxicity. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of MP-induced cardiotoxicity and new molecular targets for treating cardiac injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhang
- Division of Cardiology, Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200336 Shanghai, China.
| | - Jun Shi
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Zhou
- Division of Cardiology, Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200336 Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Song
- Division of Cardiology, Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200336 Shanghai, China
| | - Jingjing Ding
- Department of General Practice, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Ping Deng
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Weng
- Department of Intervention, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yiqian Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zhongqing Xu
- Department of General Practice, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Ding R, Ma Y, Li T, Sun M, Sun Z, Duan J. The detrimental effects of micro-and nano-plastics on digestive system: An overview of oxidative stress-related adverse outcome pathway. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 878:163144. [PMID: 37003332 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
With the massive manufacture and use of plastics, plastic pollution-related environmental impacts have raised great concern in recent years. As byproducts of plastic fragmentation and degradation, microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) have been identified as novel pollutants that posed a threat to the ecosystem and humans. Since MPs/NPs could be transported via the food chain and retained in the water, the digestive system should be one of the major targets of MPs/NPs-related toxicity. Although considerable evidence has supported the digestive toxicity of MPs/NPs, the proposed mechanisms remained ambiguous due to the variety of study types, models, and endpoints. This review provided a mechanism-based perspective on MPs/NPs-induced digestive effects by adopting the adverse outcome pathway framework as a promising tool. The overproduction of reactive oxygen species was identified as the molecular initiating event in MPs/NPs-mediated injury to the digestive system. A series of detrimental effects including oxidative stress, apoptosis, inflammation, dysbiosis, and metabolic disorders were summarized as key events. Finally, the occurrence of these effects eventually led to an adverse outcome, suggesting a possible increase in the incidence of digestive morbidity and mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruiyang Ding
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Yiming Ma
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Tianyu Li
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Mengqi Sun
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Zhiwei Sun
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China.
| | - Junchao Duan
- Department of Toxicology and Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Zhang Y, Wang X, Zhao Y, Zhao J, Yu T, Yao Y, Zhao R, Yu R, Liu J, Su J. Reproductive toxicity of microplastics in female mice and their offspring from induction of oxidative stress. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 327:121482. [PMID: 36967007 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are an emerging pollutant that is becoming recognized as an increasingly serious environmental problem. The biological toxicity and resulting health risks of MPs have attracted much attention in the research community. While the effects of MPs on various mammalian organ systems have been described, their interactions with oocytes and the underlying mechanism of their activity within the reproductive system have remained ambiguous. Here, we discovered that oral administration of MPs to mice (40 mg/kg per day for 30 days) significantly reduced the oocyte maturation and fertilization rate, embryo development, and fertility. Ingestion of MPs significantly increased the ROS level in oocytes and embryos, leading to oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis. Moreover, mouse exposure to MPs caused DNA damage in oocytes, including spindle/chromosome morphology defects, and downregulation of actin and Juno expression in mouse oocytes. In addition, mice were also exposed to MPs (40 mg/kg per day) during gestation and lactation to determine trans-generational reproductive toxicity. The results showed that maternal exposure to MPs during pregnancy resulted in a decline in birth and postnatal body weight in offspring mice. Furthermore, MPs exposure of mothers markedly reduced oocyte maturation, fertilization rate, and embryonic development in their female offspring. This investigation provides new insights on the mechanism of MPs' reproductive toxicity and raises concerns for potential risks of MP pollution on the reproductive health of humans and animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yingbing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi Province, 712100, PR China
| | - Xiyue Wang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, College of Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi Province, 712100, PR China
| | - Yifan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi Province, 712100, PR China
| | - Jianglin Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi Province, 712100, PR China
| | - Tong Yu
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi Province, 712100, PR China
| | - Yupei Yao
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi Province, 712100, PR China
| | - Ruolin Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi Province, 712100, PR China
| | - Ruiluan Yu
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi Province, 712100, PR China
| | - Jun Liu
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi Province, 712100, PR China
| | - Jianmin Su
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi Province, 712100, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
He W, Gu A, Wang D. Sulfonate-Modified Polystyrene Nanoparticle at Precited Environmental Concentrations Induces Transgenerational Toxicity Associated with Increase in Germline Notch Signal of Caenorhabditis elegans. TOXICS 2023; 11:511. [PMID: 37368611 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11060511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Recently, the transgenerational toxicity of nanoplastics has received increasing attention. Caenorhabditis elegans is a useful model to assess the transgenerational toxicity of different pollutants. In nematodes, the possibility of early-life exposure to sulfonate-modified polystyrene nanoparticle (PS-S NP) causing transgenerational toxicity and its underlying mechanisms were investigated. After exposure at the L1-larval stage, transgenerational inhibition in both locomotion behavior (body bend and head thrash) and reproductive capacity (number of offspring and fertilized egg number in uterus) was induced by 1-100 μg/L PS-S NP. Meanwhile, after exposure to 1-100 μg/L PS-S NP, the expression of germline lag-2 encoding Notch ligand was increased not only at the parental generation (P0-G) but also in the offspring, and the transgenerational toxicity was inhibited by the germline RNA interference (RNAi) of lag-2. During the transgenerational toxicity formation, the parental LAG-2 activated the corresponding Notch receptor GLP-1 in the offspring, and transgenerational toxicity was also suppressed by glp-1 RNAi. GLP-1 functioned in the germline and the neurons to mediate the PS-S NP toxicity. In PS-S NP-exposed nematodes, germline GLP-1 activated the insulin peptides of INS-39, INS-3, and DAF-28, and neuronal GLP-1 inhibited the DAF-7, DBL-1, and GLB-10. Therefore, the exposure risk in inducing transgenerational toxicity through PS-S NP was suggested, and this transgenerational toxicity was mediated by the activation of germline Notch signal in organisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenmiao He
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Aihua Gu
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Dayong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Shenzhen Ruipuxun Academy for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, Shenzhen 518122, China
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Song X, Du L, Si M, Zou D, Qiu X. Effects of Micro(nano)plastics on the reproductive system: A review. CHEMOSPHERE 2023:139138. [PMID: 37285987 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (100nm-5 mm) and nanoplastics (1-100 nm) are collectively referred to as micro(nano)plastics (MNPs), which are refractory to degradation, easy to migration, small in size, strong in adsorption, and can widely present in human living environment. A number of studies have confirmed that MNPs can be exposed to the human body through a variety of routes, and can penetrate various barriers to enter the reproductive system, suggesting that MNPs may pose potential harm to human reproductive health. Current studies most were limited to phenotypic studies and their subjects were basically lower marine organisms and mammals. Therefore, in order to provide theoretical base for further exploring the effects of MNPs on the human reproductive system, this paper searched the relevant literature at home and abroad, mainly analyzed rodent experiments, and concluded that the main exposure routes of MNPs are dietary intake, air inhalation, skin contact and medical plastics. After entering the reproductive system, MNPs produce reproductive toxicity mainly through oxidative stress, inflammation, metabolic disorders, cytotoxicity and other mechanisms. More work is required to comprehensively identify the exposure routes, improve the detection methods to evaluate the effective exposure and deeply study the specific mechanisms of toxic effects, withing the aim of conducting relevant studies at the population level in the next step.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Song
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Chengdu BOE Hospital, Chengdu, 610219, China.
| | - Lixia Du
- Department of Gastroenterology, Chengdu BOE Hospital, Chengdu, 610219, China
| | - Maling Si
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Chengdu BOE Hospital, Chengdu, 610219, China
| | - Dan Zou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chengdu BOE Hospital, Chengdu, 610219, China
| | - Xihong Qiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chengdu BOE Hospital, Chengdu, 610219, China
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Yang S, Li M, Kong RYC, Li L, Li R, Chen J, Lai KP. Reproductive toxicity of micro- and nanoplastics. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 177:108002. [PMID: 37276763 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.108002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Large-scale plastic pollution occurs in terrestrial and marine environments and degrades into microparticles (MP) and nanoparticles (NP) of plastic. Micro/nanoplastics (MP/NPs) are found throughout the environment and different kinds of marine organisms and can enter the human body through inhalation or ingestion, particularly through the food chain. MPs/NPs can enter different organisms, and affect different body systems, including the reproductive, digestive, and nervous systems via the induction of different stresses such as oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress. This paper summarizes the effects of MPs/NPs of different sizes on the reproduction of different organisms including terrestrial and marine invertebrates and vertebrates, the amplification of toxic effects between them through the food chain, the serious threat to biodiversity, and, more importantly, the imminent challenge to human reproductive health. There is a need to strengthen international communication and cooperation on the remediation of plastic pollution and the protection of biodiversity to build a sustainable association between humans and other organisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaolong Yang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Integrative Omics, Guilin Medical University, Education Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China
| | - Mengzhen Li
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Integrative Omics, Guilin Medical University, Education Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China
| | - Richard Yuen Chong Kong
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Lei Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Rong Li
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Integrative Omics, Guilin Medical University, Education Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China.
| | - Jian Chen
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Integrative Omics, Guilin Medical University, Education Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China.
| | - Keng Po Lai
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Integrative Omics, Guilin Medical University, Education Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Liu W, Zhang B, Yao Q, Feng X, Shen T, Guo P, Wang P, Bai Y, Li B, Wang P, Li R, Qu Z, Liu N. Toxicological effects of micro/nano-plastics on mouse/rat models: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1103289. [PMID: 37275491 PMCID: PMC10233117 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1103289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Micro/nano-plastics (MNPs) are considered a heterogeneous class of environmental contaminants that cause multiple toxic effects on biological species. As the commonly used mammalian models to study the effects of MNPs with regard to their toxic effects, the mouse and rat models are making a great contribution to the disciplines of environmental toxicology and medical health. However, the toxic effects of MNPs have not been systematically summarized. Therefore, a systematic review and a meta-analysis of the toxic effects of MNPs on mouse/rat models were conducted. A total of seven main categories were established in this systematic review, and 24 subcategories were further divided according to the specific physiological significance of the endpoint or the classification of the physiological system, which covered all the selected pieces of literature. A total of 1,762 biological endpoints were found, and 52.78% of them were significantly affected. This fact indicates that there are relative factors, including the size, polymer type, concentration, and exposure time of MNPs and different sexes of mouse/rat models that could significantly affect the biological endpoints. These biological endpoints can be classified into various factors, such as the dose-response relationships between MNP concentration and physiological categories of the nervous system, growth, reproduction, digestive tract histopathology, and inflammatory cytokine level, among others. MNPs negatively affected the blood glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, and reproductive function in mice. The reproductive function in male mice is more sensitive to the toxic effects of MNPs. These findings also provide insights into and directions for exploring the evidence and mechanisms of the toxic effects of MNPs on human health. It is clear that more research is required on the pathological mechanisms at the molecular level and the long-term effects of tissue accumulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weijia Liu
- Institute of Environment and Health, South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- Institute of Chronic Disease Risks Assessment, School of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Bowen Zhang
- Institute of Environment and Health, South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qianqian Yao
- Institute of Environment and Health, South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xihua Feng
- Institute of Environment and Health, South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Tianling Shen
- Institute of Environment and Health, South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Peisen Guo
- Institute of Environment and Health, South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Panpan Wang
- Institute of Environment and Health, South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yitong Bai
- Institute of Environment and Health, South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- Institute of Chronic Disease Risks Assessment, School of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Bo Li
- Institute of Environment and Health, South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Peixi Wang
- Institute of Environment and Health, South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ruiling Li
- Institute of Environment and Health, South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhi Qu
- Institute of Environment and Health, South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Nan Liu
- Institute of Environment and Health, South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- Institute of Chronic Disease Risks Assessment, School of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Wang B, Liang B, Huang Y, Li Z, Zhang B, Du J, Ye R, Xian H, Deng Y, Xiu J, Yang X, Ichihara S, Ichihara G, Zhong Y, Huang Z. Long-Chain Acyl Carnitines Aggravate Polystyrene Nanoplastics-Induced Atherosclerosis by Upregulating MARCO. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023:e2205876. [PMID: 37144527 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202205876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) is common because of their omnipresence in environment. Recent studies have revealed that MNPs may cause atherosclerosis, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. To address this bottleneck, ApoE-/- mice are exposed to 2.5-250 mg kg-1 polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs, 50 nm) by oral gavage with a high-fat diet for 19 weeks. It is found that PS-NPs in blood and aorta of mouse exacerbate the artery stiffness and promote atherosclerotic plaque formation. PS-NPs activate phagocytosis of M1-macrophage in the aorta, manifesting as upregulation of macrophage receptor with collagenous structure (MARCO). Moreover, PS-NPs disrupt lipid metabolism and increase long-chain acyl carnitines (LCACs). LCAC accumulation is attributed to the PS-NP-inhibited hepatic carnitine palmitoyltransferase 2. PS-NPs, as well as LCACs alone, aggravate lipid accumulation via upregulating MARCO in the oxidized low-density lipoprotein-activated foam cells. Finally, synergistic effects of PS-NPs and LCACs on increasing total cholesterol in foam cells are found. Overall, this study indicates that LCACs aggravate PS-NP-induced atherosclerosis by upregulating MARCO. This study offers new insight into the mechanisms underlying MNP-induced cardiovascular toxicity, and highlights the combined effects of MNPs with endogenous metabolites on the cardiovascular system, which warrant further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Wang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Boxuan Liang
- Affiliated Dongguan People's Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523059, China
| | - Yuji Huang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Zhiming Li
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Bingli Zhang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Jiaxin Du
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Rongyi Ye
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Hongyi Xian
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Yanhong Deng
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Jiancheng Xiu
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Department of Cardiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Xingfen Yang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Sahoko Ichihara
- Department of Environmental and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, 329-0498, Japan
| | - Gaku Ichihara
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Noda, 278-8510, Japan
| | - Yizhou Zhong
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Zhenlie Huang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Safety Evaluation of Cosmetics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Wang X, Zhao Z, Wang X, Hu W, Chu X, Qian M, Wang R, Yu S, Wu Q, Tang J, Zhao X. Effects of polystyrene nanoplastic gestational exposure on mice. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 324:138255. [PMID: 36854359 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Airborne plastic particles have received increasing attention due to their ubiquity in the atmosphere and potential human health risks. Previous studies have demonstrated that early-life exposure to environmental toxicants is associated with abnormal metabolic function. However, the impact of exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs) through inhalation on the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in mothers and offspring remains unknown. In the present study, mice were gestationally exposed to PSNPs at different doses (0, 1, 5, and 25 μg μl-1) through inhalation to investigate health hazards to the dam at weaning and to adult offspring. Gestational exposure to PSNPs at high doses significantly induced hepatic steatosis in the dam and upregulated genes involved in de novo lipogenesis, fatty acids (FAs) uptake, and triacylglycerol (TG) synthesis in the monoacylglycerol acyltransferase pathway. Gestational exposure to high doses of PSNPs led to hepatic steatosis in adult female offspring but not male offspring, and expression levels of genes related to FAs uptake and TG synthesis in the glycerol 3-phosphate pathway were significantly elevated. Collectively, our data demonstrate that gestational exposure to airborne PSNPs induced different development processes of NAFLD in the dam and offspring, providing vital data about plastic particulate toxicology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoke Wang
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, Nantong Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, 226019, China
| | - Zixuan Zhao
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, Nantong Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, 226019, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, Nantong Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, 226019, China; Department of Nutrition, First People's Hospital of Taicang City, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 226019, PR China
| | - Wenxuan Hu
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, Nantong Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, 226019, China
| | - Xiuyu Chu
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, Nantong Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, 226019, China
| | - Muzhou Qian
- Department of Hemodialysis, Fourth People's Hospital of Nantong City, Nantong, 226019, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, Nantong Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, 226019, China
| | - Shali Yu
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, Nantong Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, 226019, China
| | - Qiyun Wu
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, Nantong Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, 226019, China
| | - Juan Tang
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, Nantong Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, 226019, China.
| | - Xinyuan Zhao
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, Nantong Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, 226019, China.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Sun Z, Wen Y, Zhang F, Fu Z, Yuan Y, Kuang H, Kuang X, Huang J, Zheng L, Zhang D. Exposure to nanoplastics induces mitochondrial impairment and cytomembrane destruction in Leydig cells. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 255:114796. [PMID: 36948006 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Plastic particle pollution poses an emerging threat to ecological and human health. Laboratory animal studies have illustrated that nano-sized plastics can accumulate in the testis and cause testosterone deficiency and spermatogenic impairment. In this study, TM3 mouse Leydig cells were in vitro exposed to polystyrene nanoparticles (PS-NPs, size 20 nm) at dosages of 50, 100 and 150 μg/mL to investigate their cytotoxicity. Our results demonstrated that PS-NPs can be internalized into TM3 Leydig cells and led to a concentration-dependent decline in cell viability. Furthermore, PS-NPs stimulation amplified ROS generation and initiated cellular oxidative stress and apoptosis. Moreover, PS-NPs treatment affected the mitochondrial DNA copy number and collapsed the mitochondrial membrane potential, accompanied by a disrupted energy metabolism. The cells exposed to PS-NPs also displayed a down-regulated expression of steroidogenesis-related genes StAR, P450scc and 17β-HSD, along with a decrease in testosterone secretion. In addition, treatment with PS-NPs destructed plasma membrane integrity, as presented by increase in lactate dehydrogenase release and depolarization of cell membrane potential. In summary, these data indicated that exposure to PS-NPs in vitro produced cytotoxic effect on Leydig cells by inducing oxidative injury, mitochondrial impairment, apoptosis, and cytomembrane destruction. Our results provide new insights into male reproductive toxicity caused by NPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhangbei Sun
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Yiqian Wen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Fan Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Zhendong Fu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Yangyang Yuan
- Clinical Medical Experimental Center of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, PR China
| | - Haibin Kuang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Xiaodong Kuang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Jian Huang
- Clinical Medical Experimental Center of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, PR China
| | - Liping Zheng
- Clinical Medical Experimental Center of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, Nanchang 330006, PR China.
| | - Dalei Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, Nanchang 330006, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|