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Gautam R, Priyadarshini E, Patel AK, Arora T. Assessing the impact and mechanisms of environmental pollutants (heavy metals and pesticides) on the male reproductive system: a comprehensive review. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH. PART C, TOXICOLOGY AND CARCINOGENESIS 2024; 42:126-153. [PMID: 38240636 DOI: 10.1080/26896583.2024.2302738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
The escalation of technological advancements, coupled with the increased use of hazardous chemicals, has emerged as a significant concern for human health. Exposure to environmental pollutants like heavy metals and pesticides (insecticides, herbicides and fungicides) is known to significantly contribute to various health problems, particularly affecting reproductive health. Disturbances in reproductive potential and reproductive toxicity in males are particularly worrisome. Existing literature suggests that exposure to these environmental pollutants significantly alters male reproductive parameters. Thus, it is imperative to thoroughly analyze, comprehend, and evaluate their impact on male reproductive toxicity. Oxidative stress and disruptions in redox equilibrium are major factors through which these pollutants induce changes in sperm parameters and affect the reproductive system. Insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with the secretion and function of reproductive hormones such as testosterone and luteinizing hormone (LH), consequently impacting spermatogenesis. Additionally, heavy metals are reported to bio-accumulate in reproductive organs, acting as endocrine disruptors and triggering oxidative stress. The co-operative association of these pollutants can lead to severe damage. In this comprehensive review, we have conducted an in-depth analysis of the impact of these environmental pollutants on the male reproductive system, shedding light on the underlying mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Gautam
- Division of RCN, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Arbind Kumar Patel
- School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Taruna Arora
- Division of RCN, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi, India
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2
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Sciorio R, Cariati F, Fleming S, Alviggi C. Exploring the Impact of Controlled Ovarian Stimulation and Non-Invasive Oocyte Assessment in ART Treatments. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1989. [PMID: 37895371 PMCID: PMC10608727 DOI: 10.3390/life13101989] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Invasive and noninvasive features are normally applied to select developmentally competent oocytes and embryos that can increase the take-home baby rates in assisted reproductive technology. The noninvasive approach mainly applied to determine oocyte and embryo competence has been, since the early days of IVF, the morphological evaluation of the mature cumulus-oocyte complex at the time of pickup, first polar body, zona pellucida thickness, perivitelline space and cytoplasm appearance. Morphological evaluation of oocyte quality is one of the options used to predict successful fertilization, early embryo development, uterine implantation and the capacity of an embryo to generate a healthy pregnancy to term. Thus, this paper aims to provide an analytical revision of the current literature relating to the correlation between ovarian stimulation procedures and oocyte/embryo quality. In detail, several aspects of oocyte quality such as morphological features, oocyte competence and its surrounding environment will be discussed. In addition, the main noninvasive features as well as novel approaches to biomechanical parameters of oocytes that might be correlated with the competence of embryos to produce a healthy pregnancy and live birth will be illustrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Fertility Medicine and Gynaecological Endocrinology Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, Lausanne University Hospital, CHUV, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Federica Cariati
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Steven Fleming
- Discipline of Anatomy & Histology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- Fertility Unit, Maternal-Child Department, AOU Policlinico Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy;
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology Institute (IEOS), National Research Council, 80131 Naples, Italy
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Wang Y, Guo Y, Liu H, Du X, Shi L, Wang W, Zhang S. Hawthorn fruit extract protect against MC-LR-induced hepatotoxicity by attenuating oxidative stress and apoptosis. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2023; 38:1239-1250. [PMID: 36880395 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Microcystins (MCs) is a class of cyclic heptapeptide compounds with biological activity. There is no effective treatment for liver injury caused by MCs. Hawthorn is a medicinal and edible plant traditional Chinese medicine with hypolipidemic, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the liver. This study discussed the protective effect of hawthorn fruit extract (HFE) on liver damage caused by MC-LR and the underlying molecular mechanism. After MC-LR exposure, pathological changes were observed and hepatic activity of ALT, AST and ALP were increased obviously, but they were remarkably restored with HFE administration. In addition, MC-LR could significantly reduce SOD activity and increase MDA content. Importantly, MC-LR treatment resulted in mitochondrial membrane potential decreased, and Cytochrome C release, eventually leading to cell apoptosis rate increase. HFE pretreatment could significantly alleviate the above abnormal phenomena. To examine the mechanism of protection, the expression of critical molecules in the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway was examined. The levels of Bcl-2 was inhibited, and the levels of Bax, Caspase-9, Cleaved Caspase-9, and Cleaved caspase-3 were upregulated after MC-LR treatment. HFE reduced MC-LR-induced apoptosis via reversing the expression of key proteins and genes in the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. Hence, HFE could alleviate MC-LR induced hepatotoxicity by reducing oxidative stress and apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongshui Wang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yao Guo
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Haohao Liu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xingde Du
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Linjia Shi
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Wenjun Wang
- College of Nursing, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China
| | - Shenshen Zhang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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Woolner AM, Bhattacharya S. Intergenerational trends in reproduction: Infertility and pregnancy loss. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2023; 86:102305. [PMID: 36639284 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2022.102305] [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: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
This review article summarises the evidence for intergenerational trends observed to date within infertility and pregnancy loss. There appears to be evidence of intergenerational trends between mothers and daughters for the age at menopause, endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), male factor infertility and miscarriage. At present, there is no evidence for a predisposition to stillbirth between mothers and daughters. One study found an association with familial predisposition for ectopic pregnancy. Very few studies have considered the potential for paternal transmission of risk of infertility or pregnancy loss. The majority of studies to date have significant limitations because of their observational design, risk of recall bias and risk of confounding. Therefore, high-quality well-designed research, with multi-centre collaboration and utilisation of registry-based data sources and individual patient data, is needed to understand whether infertility and pregnancy loss may have heritable factors. Epidemiological findings need to be followed up and investigated with translational research to determine the possible causalities as well as any implications for clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Mf Woolner
- Aberdeen Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom.
| | - Siladitya Bhattacharya
- Aberdeen Centre for Women's Health Research, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom.
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Abdoli S, Masoumi SZ, Kazemi F. Environmental and occupational factors and higher risk of couple infertility: a systematic review study. MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s43043-022-00124-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Infertility is a global health problem that represents an increasing trend due to new lifestyles following technological advances since individuals are facing more risk factors than before. The present systematic review study aimed to investigate the impact of environmental and occupational factors on reproductive parameters and increased risk of couple infertility.
Main body
Scopus, PubMed, SID, and Web of Science databases were searched for the available observational (i.e., cohort, case-control, and cross-sectional) systematic review, meta-analysis, and clinical trial studies between 2007 and 2019. To this end, keywords such as ‘Environmental exposure’, ‘Occupational exposure’, ‘Environmental pollutants’, ‘Environmental pollution’, ‘Couple infertility’, ‘Sterility’, and ‘Sub-fertility’ were used. The retrieved investigations examined the impact of environmental and occupational risk factors on reproductive indices and increased infertility risk. Totally, 66 out of 9519 papers were evaluated after considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The reported risk factors in the reviewed studies were heavy metals, cigarette smoking, and exposure to chemicals through consumer goods, urban life, and proximity to main roads. In addition, occupational factors included heavy physical activity, prolonged sitting, exposure to a hot environment, contact with formaldehyde, pesticides, insecticides, mechanical vibration, and contact with ionizing radiation, all of which affected the reproductive parameters. However, some researchers found no significant associations in this regard.
Short conclusion
In general, individuals with known impairments in reproductive parameters were more exposed to risk factors. Nonetheless, more studies are needed to determine the risk of infertility in the population.
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Mancuso AC, Mengeling MA, Holcombe A, Ryan GL. Lifetime infertility and environmental, chemical, and hazardous exposures among female and male US veterans. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 227:744.e1-744.e12. [PMID: 35841935 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2022.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Veterans experience many potentially hazardous exposures during their service, but little is known about the possible effect of these exposures on reproductive health. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the association between infertility and environmental, chemical, or hazardous material exposures among US veterans. STUDY DESIGN This study examined self-reported cross-sectional data from a national sample of female and male US veterans aged 20 to 45 years separated from service for ≤10 years. Data were obtained via a computer-assisted telephone interview lasting an average of 1 hour and 27 minutes that assessed demographics, general and reproductive health, and lifetime and military exposures. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate associations between exposures to environmental, chemical, and hazardous materials and infertility as defined by 2 different definitions: unprotected intercourse for ≥12 months without conception and trying to conceive for ≥12 months without conception. RESULTS Of the veterans included in this study, 592 of 1194 women (49.6%) and 727 of 1407 men (51.7%) met the unprotected intercourse definition for infertility, and 314 of 781 women (40.2%) and 270 of 775 men (34.8%) met the trying to conceive definition for infertility. Multiple individual exposure rates were found to be higher in women and men veterans with self-reported infertility, including petrochemicals and polychlorinated biphenyls, which were higher in both the men and women groups reporting infertility by either definition. Importantly, there was no queried exposure self-reported at higher rates in the noninfertile groups. Moreover, veterans reporting infertility reported a higher number of total exposures with a mean±standard deviation of 7.61±3.87 exposures for the women with infertility vs 7.13±3.67 for the noninfertile group (P=.030) and 13.17±4.19 for veteran men with infertility vs 12.54±4.10 for the noninfertile group (P=.005) using the unprotected intercourse definition and 7.69±3.79 for the women with infertility vs 7.02±3.57 for the noninfertile group (P=.013) and 13.77±4.17 for the veteran men with infertility vs 12.89±4.08 for the noninfertile group (P=.005) using the trying to conceive definition. CONCLUSION The data identified an association between infertility and environmental, chemical, and hazardous materials that the veterans were exposed to during military service. Although this study was limited by the self-reported and unblinded data collection from a survey, and causation between exposures and infertility cannot be proven, it does show that veterans encounter many exposures during their service and calls for further research into the possible link between veteran exposures and reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail C Mancuso
- Center for Access and Delivery Research and Evaluation, Iowa City Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Iowa City, IA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA.
| | - Michelle A Mengeling
- Center for Access and Delivery Research and Evaluation, Iowa City Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Iowa City, IA; Department of General Internal Medicine, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA
| | - Andrea Holcombe
- Center for Access and Delivery Research and Evaluation, Iowa City Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Iowa City, IA
| | - Ginny L Ryan
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Women's Health, Seattle, WA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
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Liu H, Zeng X, Ma Y, Chen X, Losiewicz MD, Du X, Tian Z, Zhang S, Shi L, Zhang H, Yang F. Long-term exposure to low concentrations of MC-LR induces blood-testis barrier damage through the RhoA/ROCK pathway. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2022; 236:113454. [PMID: 35367887 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.113454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microcystin-leucine arginine (MC-LR), an emerging water pollutant, produced by cyanobacteria, has an acute testicular toxicity. However, little is known about the chronic toxic effects of MC-LR exposure on the testis at environmental concentrations and the underlying molecular mechanisms. In this study, C57BL/6 J mice were exposed to different low concentrations of MC-LR for 6, 9 and 12 months. The results showed that MC-LR could cause testis structure loss, cell abscission and blood-testis barrier (BTB) damage. Long-term exposure of MC-LR also activated RhoA/ROCK pathway, which was accompanied by the rearrangement of α-Tubulin. Furthermore, MC-LR reduced the levels of the adherens junction proteins (N-cadherin and β-catenin) and the tight junction proteins (ZO-1 and Occludin) in a dose- and time-dependent way, causing BTB damage. MC-LR also reduced the expressions of Occludin, ZO-1, β-catenin, and N-cadherin in TM4 cells, accompanied by a disruption of cytoskeletal proteins. More importantly, the RhoA inhibitor Rhosin ameliorated these MC-LR-induced changes. Together, these new findings suggest that long-term exposure to MC-LR induces BTB damage through RhoA/ROCK activation: involvement of tight junction and adherens junction changes and cytoskeleton disruption. This study highlights a new mechanism for MC-LR-induced BTB disruption and provides new insights into the cause and treatment of BTB disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haohao Liu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Xin Zeng
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Ya Ma
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Xinghai Chen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, St Mary's University, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Michael D Losiewicz
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, St Mary's University, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Xingde Du
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Zhihui Tian
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Shiyu Zhang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Linjia Shi
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Huizhen Zhang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China.
| | - Fei Yang
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Typical Environmental Pollution and Health Hazards, School of Public Health, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China; Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China.
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8
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Sciorio R, Miranian D, Smith GD. Non-invasive oocyte quality assessment. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:274-290. [PMID: 35136962 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte quality is perhaps the most important limiting factor in female fertility; however, the current methods of determining oocyte competence are only marginally capable of predicting a successful pregnancy. We aim to review the predictive value of non-invasive techniques for the assessment of human oocytes and their related cells and biofluids that pertain to their developmental competence. Investigation of the proteome, transcriptome, and hormonal makeup of follicular fluid, as well as cumulus-oocyte complexes are currently underway; however, prospective randomized non-selection-controlled trials of the future are needed before determining their prognostic value. The biological significance of polar body morphology and genetics are still unknown and the subject of debate. The predictive utility of zygotic viscoelasticity for embryo development has been demonstrated, but similar studies performed on oocytes have yet to be conducted. Metabolic profiling of culture media using human oocytes are also limited and may require integration of automated, high-throughput targeted metabolomic assessments in real time with microfluidic platforms. Light exposure to oocytes can be detrimental to subsequent development and utilization of time-lapse imaging and morphometrics of oocytes is wanting. Polarized light, Raman microspectroscopy, and coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering are a few novel imaging tools that may play a more important role in future oocyte assessment. Ultimately, the integration of chemistry, genomics, microfluidics, microscopy, physics, and other biomedical engineering technologies into the basic studies of oocyte biology, and in testing and perfecting practical solutions of oocyte evaluation, are the future for non-invasive assessment of oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Edinburgh Assisted Conception Programme, EFREC, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Daniel Miranian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Gary D Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Physiology, Urology, and Reproductive Sciences Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Abstract
Purpose of Review To review the effects of early-life, preconception, and prior-generation exposures on reproductive health in women. Recent Findings Women’s early-life factors can affect reproductive health by contributing to health status or exposure level on entering pregnancy. Alternately, they can have permanent effects, regardless of later-life experience. Nutrition, social class, parental smoking, other adverse childhood experiences, environmental pollutants, infectious agents, and racism and discrimination all affect reproductive health, even if experienced in childhood or in utero. Possible transgenerational effects are now being investigated through three- or more-generation studies. These effects occur with mechanisms that may include direct exposure, behavioral, endocrine, inflammatory, and epigenetic pathways. Summary Pregnancy is increasingly understood in a life course perspective, but rigorously testing hypotheses on early-life effects is still difficult. In order to improve the health outcomes of all women, we need to expand our toolkit of methods and theory. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40471-021-00279-0.
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Fucic A, Duca RC, Galea KS, Maric T, Garcia K, Bloom MS, Andersen HR, Vena JE. Reproductive Health Risks Associated with Occupational and Environmental Exposure to Pesticides. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18126576. [PMID: 34207279 PMCID: PMC8296378 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18126576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A marked reduction in fertility and an increase in adverse reproductive outcomes during the last few decades have been associated with occupational and environmental chemical exposures. Exposure to different types of pesticides may increase the risks of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative disease, but also of reduced fertility and birth defects. Both occupational and environmental exposures to pesticides are important, as many are endocrine disruptors, which means that even very low-dose exposure levels may have measurable biological effects. The aim of this review was to summarize the knowledge collected between 2000 and 2020, to highlight new findings, and to further interpret the mechanisms that may associate pesticides with infertility, abnormal sexual maturation, and pregnancy complications associated with occupational, environmental and transplacental exposures. A summary of current pesticide production and usage legislation is also included in order to elucidate the potential impact on exposure profile differences between countries, which may inform prevention measures. Recommendations for the medical surveillance of occupationally exposed populations, which should be facilitated by the biomonitoring of reduced fertility, is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Fucic
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +385-15682500; Fax: +3814673303
| | - Radu C. Duca
- Unit Environmental Hygiene and Human Biological Monitoring, Department of Health Protection, National Health Laboratory, L-3555 Dudelange, Luxembourg;
- Centre for Environment and Health, KU Leuven, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Karen S. Galea
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Edinburgh EH14 4AP, UK;
| | - Tihana Maric
- Medical School, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Kelly Garcia
- Department of Global and Community Health, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA; (K.G.); (M.S.B.)
| | - Michael S. Bloom
- Department of Global and Community Health, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA; (K.G.); (M.S.B.)
| | - Helle R. Andersen
- Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, DK-5000 Odense C, Denmark;
| | - John E. Vena
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA;
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Du X, Liu H, Liu X, Chen X, Yuan L, Ma Y, Huang H, Wang Y, Wang R, Zhang S, Tian Z, Shi L, Zhang H. Microcystin-LR induces ovarian injury and apoptosis in mice via activating apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1-mediated P38/JNK pathway. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2021; 213:112066. [PMID: 33610944 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2021.112066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
As an emerging pollutant in the aquatic environment, microcystin-LR (MC-LR) can enter the body through multiple pathways, and then induce apoptosis and gonadal damage, affecting reproductive function. Previous studies focused on male reproductive toxicity induced by MC-LR neglecting its effects on females. The apoptotic signal-regulated kinase 1 (ASK1) is an upstream protein of P38/JNK pathway, closely associated with apoptosis and organ damage. However, the role of ASK1 in MC-LR-induced reproductive toxicity is unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the role of ASK1 in mouse ovarian injury and apoptosis induced by MC-LR. After MC-LR exposure, ASK1 expression in mouse ovarian granulosa cells was increased at the protein and mRNA levels, and decreased following pretreatment by antioxidant N-acetylcysteine, suggesting that MC-LR-induced oxidative stress has a regulatory role in ASK1 expression. Inhibition of ASK1 expression with siASK1 and NQDI-1 could effectively alleviate MC-LR-induced mitochondrial membrane potential damage and apoptosis in ovarian granulosa cells, as well as pathological damage, apoptosis and the decreased gonadal index in ovaries of C57BL/6 mice. Moreover, the P38/JNK pathway and downstream apoptosis-related proteins (P-P38, P-JNK, P-P53, Fas) and genes (MKK4, MKK3, Ddit3, Mef2c) were activated in vivo and vitro, but their activation was restrained after ASK1 inhibition. Data presented herein suggest that the ASK1-mediated P38/JNK pathway is involved in ovarian injury and apoptosis induced by MC-LR in mice. It is confirmed that ASK1 has an important role in MC-LR-induced ovarian injury, which provides new insights for preventing MCs-induced reproductive toxicity in females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingde Du
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Haohao Liu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Xiaohui Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Xinghai Chen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, St Mary's University, San Antonio, TX 78228, USA
| | - Le Yuan
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Ya Ma
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Hui Huang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Yueqin Wang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Rui Wang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Shiyu Zhang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Zhihui Tian
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Linjia Shi
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Huizhen Zhang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
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12
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The Variations of Metabolic Detoxification Enzymes Lead to Recurrent Miscarriage and Their Diagnosis Strategy. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1300:259-280. [PMID: 33523438 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-33-4187-6_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
Spontaneous abortion has been a common obstetrical and gynecological disease, which occurs in 10-15% of all pregnancies. Recurrent miscarriage (RM) refers to the occurrence of three or more times abortions with the same partner. It is generally believed that environmental pollution associated with economic development may cause infertility and RM. When xenobiotics from the environment enter the body, they must be cleared from the body by various metabolic enzymes in the body. The absence or variation of these enzymes may be the genetic basis of RM caused by environmental pollution. The variation of metabolic detoxification enzyme can directly affect the removal of harmful substances from internal and external sources. Therefore, the determination of metabolic enzyme activity may become an important factor in the diagnosis of RM etiology and seeking methods to improve the detoxification ability has a great significance for the treatment of RM.
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13
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Zhao S, Yuan C, Tuo X, Zhou C, Zhao Q, Shen T. MCLR induces dysregulation of calcium homeostasis and endoplasmic reticulum stress resulting in apoptosis in Sertoli cells. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 263:127868. [PMID: 32828052 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.127868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Microcystins-LR (MCLR) is a potent reproductive system toxin. We have previously shown that MCLR induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and apoptosis in testis. ER is the main calcium storage site in cells, and its calcium homeostasis plays an important role in the regulation of apoptosis. Hence, in the present study, we have investigated the role of calcium (Ca2+) in inducing apoptosis and how it affect the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum in TM4 cells. Our study found that MCLR induced an increase in Ca2+ concentration in TM4 cells. Compared to the controls, MCLR induced phosphorylation of calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) which was involved in MAPKs activation, resulting in the induction of mitochondrial apoptosis pathways. Ca2+ chelator Bapta-AM partially reversed MCLR-induced apoptosis, confirming the possible involvement of calcium homeostasis disruption after MCLR exposure. Meanwhile, MCLR activated unfolded protein response and activated the ER apoptotic pathway by activating caspase-12. In addition, exposure to MCLR causes mitochondrial defects and increased apoptosis by up-regulating caspase 3 and cytosol cytochrome c expression. Collectively, these results demonstrated that MCLR disturbed calcium homeostasis, which caused ER-mitochondria dysfunction, ultimately promoted cell apoptosis in Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujuan Zhao
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Chunyang Yuan
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xun Tuo
- College of Chemistry, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, China
| | - Chengfan Zhou
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Qihong Zhao
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Tong Shen
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
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Sciorio R, Dattilo M. PGT‐A preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies and embryo selection in routine ART cycles: Time to step back? Clin Genet 2020; 98:107-115. [DOI: 10.1111/cge.13732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Edinburgh Assisted Conception Programme, EFRECRoyal Infirmary of Edinburgh Edinburgh UK
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15
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Gerkowicz SA, Curtis SW, Knight AK, Cobb DO, Spencer JB, Conneely KN, Terrell ML, Marcus M, Smith AK. Endometriosis, endocrine disrupters, and epigenetics: an investigation into the complex interplay in women with polybrominated biphenyl exposure and endometriosis. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:427-436. [PMID: 32026200 PMCID: PMC7056781 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01695-9] [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: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) have been shown to affect multiple biologic processes especially steroid-hormone processes. We sought to determine differences in DNA methylation exists between women with and without endometriosis following exposure to polybrominated biphenyl (PBB). METHODS Cross-sectional study of 305 females in the Michigan PBB Registry. DNA was extracted, and DNA methylation was interrogated using the MethylationEPIC BeadChip (Illumina, San Diego, California). Demographic data was analyzed using Chi-squared and T tests. Linear regressions were performed for each cytosine-guanine dinucleotide (CpG) site, modeling the logit transformation of the β value as a linear function of the presence of endometriosis. Sensitivity analyses were conducted controlling for estradiol levels and menopausal status. Replication study performed evaluating for any association between CpGs reported in the literature and our findings. RESULTS In total, 39,877 CpGs nominally associated with endometriosis (p < 0.05) after adjusting for age and cellular heterogeneity, although none remained significant after correction for multiple comparisons (FDR < 0.05). Pathway analysis of these CpGs showed enrichment in 68 biologic pathways involved in various endocrine, immunologic, oncologic, and cell regulation processes as well as embryologic reproductive tract development and function (FoxO, Wnt, and Hedgehog signaling). We identified 42,261 CpG sites in the literature reported to be associated with endometriosis; 2012 of these CpG sites were also significant in our cohort. CONCLUSION We found 39,877 CpG sites that nominally associated with endometriosis (p < 0.05) after adjusting for age and cellular heterogeneity; however, none remained significant after correction for multiple comparisons (FDR < 0.05).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina A Gerkowicz
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sarah W Curtis
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Program, Department of Human Genetics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Anna K Knight
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University, 101 Woodruff Circle NE, Suite 4217, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Dawayland O Cobb
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University, 101 Woodruff Circle NE, Suite 4217, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Jessica B Spencer
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Karen N Conneely
- Genetics and Molecular Biology Program, Department of Human Genetics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Metrecia L Terrell
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Michele Marcus
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Alica K Smith
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University, 101 Woodruff Circle NE, Suite 4217, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, 101 Woodruff Circle NE, Suite 4217, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
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16
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Yuan L, Liu H, Liu X, Zhang X, Wu J, Wang Y, Du X, Wang R, Ma Y, Chen X, Petlulu P, Cheng X, Zhuang D, Guo H, Zhang H. Epigenetic modification of H3K4 and oxidative stress are involved in MC-LR-induced apoptosis in testicular cells of SD rats. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2020; 35:277-291. [PMID: 31691492 DOI: 10.1002/tox.22865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Microcystin-leucine arginine (MC-LR) is a cyclic heptapeptide, produced by aquatic cyanobacteria such as microcystis, with strong reproductive toxicity which poses greater threat to the reproductive abilities of humans and animals. By exploring the role of trimethylation of histone H3 at lysine 4 (H3K4me3) and the role of oxidative stress in MC-LR-induced apoptosis in testicular Sertoli cells in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, this study indicated that MC-LR increased the expression levels of apoptosis-related genes by raising the levels of H3K4me3. 5'-Deoxy-5'-methylthioadenosine (MTA), the inhibitor of H3K4me3, reduced apoptosis, indicating for the first time that epigenetic modification is closely related to the testicular reproductive toxicity induced by MC-LR. MC-LR also induced oxidative stress by stimulating the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and subsequently triggering mitochondria-mediated apoptotic pathway by decreasing mitochondrial membrane potential and increasing the levels of Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase-3, and so on. MC-LR-induced apoptosis of testicular cells could be decreased after pretreatment with oxidative stress inhibitor N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC). Furthermore, the pathological damage to mitochondria and testes were observed in SD rats. These results show that MC-LR can induce apoptosis by raising the levels of H3K4me3, and pretreatment with MTA can ameliorate the MC-LR-induced apoptosis of cocultured cells by lowering the levels of H3K4me3. Furthermore, NAC has a protective effect on MC-LR-induced apoptosis of testicular cells in SD rats by inhibiting the oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Yuan
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Haohao Liu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaohui Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zhang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jinxia Wu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yueqin Wang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xingde Du
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Rui Wang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ya Ma
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xinghai Chen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, St Mary's University, San Antonio, Texas
| | | | - Xuemin Cheng
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Donggang Zhuang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hongxiang Guo
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Huizhen Zhang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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17
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Serrano-Lomelin J, Nielsen CC, Jabbar MSM, Wine O, Bellinger C, Villeneuve PJ, Stieb D, Aelicks N, Aziz K, Buka I, Chandra S, Crawford S, Demers P, Erickson AC, Hystad P, Kumar M, Phipps E, Shah PS, Yuan Y, Zaiane OR, Osornio-Vargas AR. Interdisciplinary-driven hypotheses on spatial associations of mixtures of industrial air pollutants with adverse birth outcomes. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2019; 131:104972. [PMID: 31299602 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2019.104972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adverse birth outcomes (ABO) such as prematurity and small for gestational age confer a high risk of mortality and morbidity. ABO have been linked to air pollution; however, relationships with mixtures of industrial emissions are poorly understood. The exploration of relationships between ABO and mixtures is complex when hundreds of chemicals are analyzed simultaneously, requiring the use of novel approaches. OBJECTIVE We aimed to generate robust hypotheses spatially linking mixtures and the occurrence of ABO using a spatial data mining algorithm and subsequent geographical and statistical analysis. The spatial data mining approach aimed to reduce data dimensionality and efficiently identify spatial associations between multiple chemicals and ABO. METHODS We discovered co-location patterns of mixtures and ABO in Alberta, Canada (2006-2012). An ad-hoc spatial data mining algorithm allowed the extraction of primary co-location patterns of 136 chemicals released into the air by 6279 industrial facilities (National Pollutant Release Inventory), wind-patterns from 182 stations, and 333,247 singleton live births at the maternal postal code at delivery (Alberta Perinatal Health Program), from which we identified cases of preterm birth, small for gestational age, and low birth weight at term. We selected secondary patterns using a lift ratio metric from ABO and non-ABO impacted by the same mixture. The relevance of the secondary patterns was estimated using logistic models (adjusted by socioeconomic status and ABO-related maternal factors) and a geographic-based assignment of maternal exposure to the mixtures as calculated by kernel density. RESULTS From 136 chemicals and three ABO, spatial data mining identified 1700 primary patterns from which five secondary patterns of three-chemical mixtures, including particulate matter, methyl-ethyl-ketone, xylene, carbon monoxide, 2-butoxyethanol, and n-butyl alcohol, were subsequently analyzed. The significance of the associations (odds ratio > 1) between the five mixtures and ABO provided statistical support for a new set of hypotheses. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that, in complex research settings, spatial data mining followed by pattern selection and geographic and statistical analyses can catalyze future research on associations between air pollutant mixtures and adverse birth outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Serrano-Lomelin
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405 87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1C9, Canada; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Alberta, Royal Alexandra Hospital, 10240 Kingsway Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T5H 3V9, Canada.
| | - Charlene C Nielsen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405 87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1C9, Canada; Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Alberta, 1-26 Earth Science Building, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E3, Canada.
| | - M Shazan M Jabbar
- Department of Computing Science, University of Alberta, 32 Athabasca Hall, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E8, Canada.
| | - Osnat Wine
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405 87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1C9, Canada.
| | - Colin Bellinger
- Department of Computing Science, University of Alberta, 32 Athabasca Hall, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E8, Canada.
| | - Paul J Villeneuve
- Department of Health Sciences, Carleton University, Herzberg Building, Room 5413, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, Ontario K1S 5B6, Canada.
| | - Dave Stieb
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, 50 Colombine Driveway, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0K9, Canada.
| | - Nancy Aelicks
- Alberta Health Services, Alberta Perinatal Health Program, Suite 310, 1403-29 Street NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 2T9, Canada.
| | - Khalid Aziz
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405 87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1C9, Canada.
| | - Irena Buka
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405 87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1C9, Canada.
| | - Sue Chandra
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Alberta, Royal Alexandra Hospital, 10240 Kingsway Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T5H 3V9, Canada.
| | - Susan Crawford
- Alberta Health Services, Alberta Perinatal Health Program, Suite 310, 1403-29 Street NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 2T9, Canada.
| | - Paul Demers
- CAREX Canada, Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 105-515 West Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5K3, Canada.
| | - Anders C Erickson
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 E Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| | - Perry Hystad
- School of Biological and Population Health Sciences, Oregon State University, 101 Milam Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Manoj Kumar
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405 87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1C9, Canada.
| | - Erica Phipps
- Canadian Partnership for Children's Health & Environment, 1500-55 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M5J 2H7, Canada.
| | - Prakesh S Shah
- Department of Pediatrics and Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Mount Sinai Hospital, 600 University Avenue, Room 19-231A, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5, Canada.
| | - Yan Yuan
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405 87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1C9, Canada.
| | - Osmar R Zaiane
- Department of Computing Science, University of Alberta, 32 Athabasca Hall, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E8, Canada.
| | - Alvaro R Osornio-Vargas
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, 11405 87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 1C9, Canada.
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Rashtian J, Chavkin DE, Merhi Z. Water and soil pollution as determinant of water and food quality/contamination and its impact on female fertility. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2019; 17:5. [PMID: 30636624 PMCID: PMC6330570 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-018-0448-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
A mounting body of the literature suggests that environmental chemicals found in food and water could affect female reproduction. Many worldwide daily-used products have been shown to contain chemicals that could incur adverse reproductive outcomes in the perinatal/neonatal periods, childhood, adolescence, and even adulthood. The potential impact of Bisphenol A (BPA), Phthalates and Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on female reproduction, in particular on puberty, PCOS pathogenesis, infertility, ovarian function, endometriosis, and recurrent pregnancy loss, in both humans and animals, will be discussed in this report in order to provide greater clinician and public awareness about the potential consequences of these chemicals. The effects of these substances could interfere with hormone biosynthesis/action and could potentially be transmitted to further generations. Thus proper education about these chemicals can help individuals decide to limit exposure, ultimately alleviating the risk on future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Rashtian
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Zaher Merhi
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10463, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University School of Medicine, 180 Varick Street, Sixth Floor, New York, NY, 10014, USA.
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19
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Sunyach C, Antonelli B, Tardieu S, Marcot M, Perrin J, Bretelle F. Environmental Health in Perinatal and Early Childhood: Awareness, Representation, Knowledge and Practice of Southern France Perinatal Health Professionals. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15102259. [PMID: 30326668 PMCID: PMC6211056 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15102259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Revised: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The exposure of adults of reproductive age as well as pregnant women and children to environmental contaminants is of particular concern, as it can impact fertility, in utero development, pregnancy outcomes and child health. Consequently, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and international societies advocate including Environmental Health (EH) in perinatal care, yet perinatal health professionals (HPs) hardly put these recommendations into practice. In 2017, a cross-sectional study was performed in a large panel of perinatal HPs in south-eastern France with the aim of painting a picture of their current attitudes, representation, knowledge, and training expectations. Quantitative and qualitative information was collected via auto-questionnaire. Questionnaires were completed by 962 participants, mainly midwives (41.1%), physicians (25.6%) and nursery nurses (11%). Indoor/outdoor air quality and endocrine disruptors were the best-mastered topics, whereas electromagnetic fields and diet gave rise to unsure responses. Overall, perinatal HPs were ill-trained and -informed about the reproductive risks linked to daily environmental exposure. HPs reported scarce knowledge, fear of patient reaction and lack of solutions as the main barriers to providing information regarding EH to the public. Our findings highlight the need to set up EH training programmes focused on scientific knowledge and to provide simple messages and tips to help perinatal HPs deliver advice to populations to mitigate exposure to environmental toxicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Sunyach
- Aix Marseille, Avignon Université, CNRS, IRD, IMBE, 13284 Marseille, France.
- Pôle Femmes-Parents-Enfants, Centre Pluridisciplinaire de Diagnostic Prénatal, AP-HM, 13915 Marseille, France.
- Réseau Méditerranée, Réseau de Périnatalité PACA, Corse, Monaco, 13015 Marseille, France.
| | - Barbara Antonelli
- Réseau Méditerranée, Réseau de Périnatalité PACA, Corse, Monaco, 13015 Marseille, France.
| | - Sophie Tardieu
- Santé Publique, Évaluation Médicale, AP-HM, Aix Marseille Université, 13284 Marseille, France.
| | - Michele Marcot
- Réseau Méditerranée, Réseau de Périnatalité PACA, Corse, Monaco, 13015 Marseille, France.
| | - Jeanne Perrin
- Aix Marseille, Avignon Université, CNRS, IRD, IMBE, 13284 Marseille, France.
- Pôle Femmes-Parents-Enfants, Centre Clinico-Biologique d'Assistance Médicale à la Procréation, AP-HM, 13915 Marseille, France.
| | - Florence Bretelle
- Pôle Femmes-Parents-Enfants, Centre Pluridisciplinaire de Diagnostic Prénatal, AP-HM, 13915 Marseille, France.
- Réseau Méditerranée, Réseau de Périnatalité PACA, Corse, Monaco, 13015 Marseille, France.
- Pôle Femmes-Parents-Enfants, Service Gynécologie-Obstétrique, AP-HM, Hôpital Nord, 13915 Marseille, France.
- Aix-Marseille-Univ, IRD, AP-HM, MEPHI, Marseille Infection, 13284 Marseille, France.
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20
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Mudumbi JBN, Ntwampe SKO, Mekuto L, Matsha T, Itoba-Tombo EF. The role of pollutants in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and their prospective impact on phytomedicinal treatment strategies. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2018; 190:262. [PMID: 29610974 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-018-6634-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is the most common form of diabetes and it is characterized by high blood sugar and abnormal sera lipid levels. Although the specific reasons for the development of these abnormalities are still not well understood, traditionally, genetic and lifestyle behavior have been reported as the leading causes of this disease. In the last three decades, the number of diabetic patients has drastically increased worldwide, with current statistics suggesting the number is to double in the next two decades. To combat this incurable ailment, orthodox medicines, to which economically disadvantaged patients have minimal access to, have been used. Thus, a considerable amalgamation of medicinal plants has recently been proven to possess therapeutic capabilities to manage T2DM, and this has prompted studies primarily focusing on the healing aspect of these plants, and ultimately, their commercialization. Hence, this review aims to highlight the potential threat of pollutants, i.e., polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFCs), endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and heavy metals, to medicinal plants, and their prospective impact on the phytomedicinal therapy strategies for T2DM. It is further suggested that auxiliary research be undertaken to better comprehend the factors that influence the uptake of these compounds by these plants. This should include a comprehensive risk assessment of phytomedicinal products destined for the treatment of T2DM. Regulations that control the use of PFC-precursors in certain developing countries are also long overdue.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Baptist Nzukizi Mudumbi
- Bioresource Engineering Research Group (BioERG), Department of Biotechnology, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, PO Box 652, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa.
| | - Seteno Karabo Obed Ntwampe
- Bioresource Engineering Research Group (BioERG), Department of Biotechnology, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, PO Box 652, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - Lukhanyo Mekuto
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Johannesburg, PO Box 17011, Johannesburg, Gauteng, 2028, South Africa
| | - Tandi Matsha
- Department of Bio-Medical sciences, Faculty of Health and Wellness Science, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, PO Box 1906, Bellville, 7535, South Africa
| | - Elie Fereche Itoba-Tombo
- Bioresource Engineering Research Group (BioERG), Department of Biotechnology, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, PO Box 652, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
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21
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Toxic elements in hair and in vitro fertilization outcomes: A prospective cohort study. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 77:43-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2017] [Revised: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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The In Vitro Impact of the Herbicide Roundup on Human Sperm Motility and Sperm Mitochondria. TOXICS 2017; 6:toxics6010002. [PMID: 29267194 PMCID: PMC5874775 DOI: 10.3390/toxics6010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Revised: 12/17/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Toxicants, such as herbicides, have been hypothesized to affect sperm parameters. The most common method of exposure to herbicides is through spraying or diet. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of direct exposure of sperm to 1 mg/L of the herbicide Roundup on sperm motility and mitochondrial integrity. Sperm samples from 66 healthy men who were seeking semen analysis were investigated after written informed consent was taken. Semen analysis was performed according to the World Health Organization guidelines (WHO, 2010). Mitochondrial integrity was assessed through mitochondrial staining using a mitochondria-specific dye, which is exclusively incorporated into functionally active mitochondria. A quantity of 1 mg/L of Roundup was found to exert a deleterious effect on sperm’s progressive motility, after 1 h of incubation (mean difference between treated and control samples = 11.2%) in comparison with the effect after three hours of incubation (mean difference = 6.33%, p < 0.05), while the relative incorporation of the mitochondrial dye in mitochondria of the mid-piece region of Roundup-treated spermatozoa was significantly reduced compared to relative controls at the first hour of incubation, indicating mitochondrial dysfunction by Roundup. Our results indicate that the direct exposure of semen samples to the active constituent of the herbicide Roundup at the relatively low concentration of 1 mg/L has adverse effects on sperm motility, and this may be related to the observed reduction in mitochondrial staining.
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23
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Chiang C, Mahalingam S, Flaws JA. Environmental Contaminants Affecting Fertility and Somatic Health. Semin Reprod Med 2017; 35:241-249. [PMID: 28658707 DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1603569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
AbstractThis review article summarizes the epidemiological findings published between 2011 and 2016 concerning bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, dioxins, pesticides, air pollution, fracking chemicals, triclosan, and parabens and fertility parameters in men (i.e., semen volume, sperm concentration, sperm motility, and sperm morphology) as well as fertility parameters in women (i.e., cyclicity, fertility treatment outcomes), pregnancy outcomes (i.e., preterm birth, miscarriage), and reproductive disorders (i.e., polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids). Overall, this review indicates that several environmental toxicants are significantly associated with reduced fertility parameters in men and women as well as several reproductive disorders in women. Although many studies reported that the selected exposures are associated with adverse fertility outcomes, several studies reported null associations. Thus, future studies are still needed to better elucidate the associations and potential mechanisms between these environmental chemicals and fertility outcomes in men and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catheryne Chiang
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Sharada Mahalingam
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois
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