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Wang J, Xiao B, Kimura E, Mongan M, Hsu WW, Medvedovic M, Puga A, Xia Y. Crosstalk of MAP3K1 and EGFR signaling mediates gene-environment interactions that block developmental tissue closure. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107486. [PMID: 38897570 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Aberrant regulation of signal transduction pathways can adversely derail biological processes for tissue development. One such process is the embryonic eyelid closure that is dependent on the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 1 (MAP3K1). Map3k1 KO in mice results in defective eyelid closure and an autosomal recessive eye-open at birth phenotype. We have shown that in utero exposure to dioxin, a persistent environmental toxicant, induces the same eye defect in Map3k1+/- heterozygous but not WT pups. Here, we explore the mechanisms of the Map3k1 (gene) and dioxin (environment) interactions (GxE) underlying defective eyelid closure. We show that, acting through the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, dioxin activates epidermal growth factor receptor signaling, which in turn depresses MAP3K1-dependent Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activity. The dioxin-mediated JNK repression is moderate but is exacerbated by Map3k1 heterozygosity. Therefore, dioxin exposed Map3k1+/- embryonic eyelids have a marked reduction of JNK activity, accelerated differentiation and impeded polarization in the epithelial cells. Knocking out Ahr or Egfr in eyelid epithelium attenuates the open-eye defects in dioxin-treated Map3k1+/- pups, whereas knockout of Jnk1 and S1pr that encodes the sphigosin-1-phosphate (S1P) receptors upstream of the MAP3K1-JNK pathway potentiates the dioxin toxicity. Our novel findings show that the crosstalk of aryl hydrocarbon receptor, epidermal growth factor receptor, and S1P-MAP3K1-JNK pathways determines the outcome of dioxin exposure. Thus, gene mutations targeting these pathways are potential risk factors for the toxicity of environmental chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Wang
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Bo Xiao
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Eiki Kimura
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Maureen Mongan
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Wei-Wen Hsu
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Mario Medvedovic
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Alvaro Puga
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Ying Xia
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.
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Wilson LB, McClure RS, Waters KM, Simonich MT, Tanguay RL. Concentration-response gene expression analysis in zebrafish reveals phenotypically-anchored transcriptional responses to retene. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2022; 4:950503. [PMID: 36093370 PMCID: PMC9453431 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2022.950503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are ubiquitous environmental contaminants and are associated with human disease. Canonically, many PAHs induce toxicity via activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) pathway. While the interaction between PAHs and the AHR is well-established, understanding which AHR-regulated transcriptional effects directly result in observable phenotypes and which are adaptive or benign is important to better understand PAH toxicity. Retene is a frequently detected PAH in environmental sampling and has been associated with AHR2-dependent developmental toxicity in zebrafish, though its mechanism of toxicity has not been fully elucidated. To interrogate transcriptional changes causally associated with retene toxicity, we conducted whole-animal RNA sequencing at 48 h post-fertilization after exposure to eight retene concentrations. We aimed to identify the most sensitive transcriptomic responses and to determine whether this approach could uncover gene sets uniquely differentially expressed at concentrations which induce a phenotype. We identified a concentration-response relationship for differential gene expression in both number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and magnitude of expression change. Elevated expression of cyp1a at retene concentrations below the threshold for teratogenicity suggested that while cyp1a expression is a sensitive biomarker of AHR activation, it may be too sensitive to serve as a biomarker of teratogenicity. Genes differentially expressed at only non-teratogenic concentrations were enriched for transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathway disruption while DEGs identified at only teratogenic concentrations were significantly enriched for response to xenobiotic stimulus and reduction-oxidation reaction activity. DEGs which spanned both non-teratogenic and teratogenic concentrations showed similar disrupted biological processes to those unique to teratogenic concentrations, indicating these processes were disrupted at low exposure concentrations. Gene co-expression network analysis identified several gene modules, including those associated with PAHs and AHR2 activation. One, Module 7, was strongly enriched for AHR2-associated genes and contained the strongest responses to retene. Benchmark concentration (BMC) of Module seven genes identified a median BMC of 7.5 µM, nearly the highest retene concentration with no associated teratogenicity, supporting the hypothesis that Module seven genes are largely responsible for retene toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay B. Wilson
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Ryan S. McClure
- Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, United States
| | - Katrina M. Waters
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, United States
| | - Michael T. Simonich
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Robyn L. Tanguay
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- *Correspondence: Robyn L. Tanguay,
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Lee HA, Kyeong S, Kim DH. Long-term effects of defoliant exposure on brain atrophy progression in humans. Neurotoxicology 2022; 92:25-32. [PMID: 35830900 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2022.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
As the most toxic dioxin, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin is classified as a group 1 human carcinogen. We investigated the long-term effects of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin exposure on the progression of brain atrophy in humans. We retrospectively selected 546 patients exposed to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (exposed group) and 1353 patients not exposed to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (control group). The patients in both groups underwent brain T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) twice. We divided the patients into two propensity score-matched groups, analyzed voxel-wise whole brain atrophy in the MRI images of each patient, and compared the progression of brain atrophy between the two groups. The exposed group showed significant brain atrophy progression in the bilateral frontal and temporal lobes, compared with the control group. The ventrolateral prefrontal area in the frontal lobe and whole temporal lobe were the main atrophic regions in the exposed group, compared with the control group. The neurotoxicity of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin can damage the brain, even in patients exposed to it over 40 years ago. Humans exposed to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin should thus be evaluated for progression of brain atrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Ah Lee
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sohyon Kyeong
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Dae Hyun Kim
- Department and Research Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
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4
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Lizano-Fallas V, Carrasco Del Amor A, Cristobal S. Systematic analysis of chemical-protein interactions from zebrafish embryo by proteome-wide thermal shift assay, bridging the gap between molecular interactions and toxicity pathways. J Proteomics 2021; 249:104382. [PMID: 34555547 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2021.104382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The molecular interaction between chemicals and proteins often promotes alteration of cellular function. One of the challenges of the toxicology is to predict the impact of exposure to chemicals. Assessing the impact of exposure implies to understand their mechanism of actions starting from identification of specific protein targets of the interaction. Current methods can mainly predict effects of characterized chemicals with knowledge of its targets, and mechanism of actions. Here, we show that proteome-wide thermal shift methods can identify chemical-protein interactions and the protein targets from bioactive chemicals. We analyzed the identified targets from a soluble proteome extracted from zebrafish embryo, that is a model system for toxicology. To evaluate the utility to predict mechanism of actions, we discussed the applicability in four cases: single chemicals, chemical mixtures, novel chemicals, and novel drugs. Our results showed that this methodology could identify the protein targets, discriminate between protein increasing and decreasing in solubility, and offering additional data to complement the map of intertwined mechanism of actions. We anticipate that the proteome integral solubility alteration (PISA) assay, as it is defined here for the unbiased identification of protein targets of chemicals could bridge the gap between molecular interactions and toxicity pathways. SIGNIFICANCE: One of the challenges of the environmental toxicology is to predict the impact of exposure to chemicals on environment and human health. Our phenotype should be explained by our genotype and the environmental exposure. Genomic methodologies can offer a deep analysis of human genome that alone cannot explain our risks of disease. We are starting to understand the key role of exposure to chemicals on our health and risks of disease. Here, we present a proteomic-based method for the identification of soluble proteins interacting with chemicals in zebrafish embryo and discuss the opportunities to complement the map of toxicity pathway perturbations. We anticipate that this PISA assay could bridge the gap between molecular interactions and toxicity pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Lizano-Fallas
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, Linköping University, Linköping 581 85, Sweden
| | - Ana Carrasco Del Amor
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, Linköping University, Linköping 581 85, Sweden
| | - Susana Cristobal
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, Linköping University, Linköping 581 85, Sweden.; Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barrio Sarriena, s/n, Leioa 48940, Spain..
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5
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Sadowska A, Nynca A, Ruszkowska M, Paukszto L, Myszczynski K, Swigonska S, Orlowska K, Molcan T, Jastrzebski JP, Ciereszko RE. Transcriptional profiling of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells exposed to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). Reprod Toxicol 2021; 104:143-154. [PMID: 34363982 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is a man-made chemical compound contaminating the environment. An exposure of organisms to TCDD results in numerous disorders. The main mechanism of TCDD action involves the induction of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) pathway followed by the increase in the expression and activity of cytochrome P450 family 1 (CYP1) enzymes. The main aim of the present study was to identify, by means of RNA sequencing, transcripts involved in the mechanism of TCDD action in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, known to not express CYP1A1 enzyme. The CHO cells were treated with TCDD for 3, 12 or 24 h, and total RNA was isolated and sequenced. Thirty six (padjusted < 0.05) or six (padjusted < 0.05, log2FC ≥ 1.0/log2FC≤-1.0) differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in TCDD-treated cells depending on the assumed statistical criteria. The dioxin up- and downregulated the expression of genes associated with ovarian follicle functions, development, cardiovascular system, signal transduction, inflammation and carcinogenesis. TCDD did not affect the expression of any of 522 miRNAs which were identified in the cells. The expression of CYP1A1, CYP1A2 and CYP1B1 was demonstrated neither in control nor in TCDD-treated CHO cells, although the respective genes were found in the cell genome. Twenty two other CYP enzymes were identified in CHO cells, however their expression was also not affected by TCDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Sadowska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - Anna Nynca
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - Monika Ruszkowska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Lukasz Paukszto
- Department of Plant Physiology, Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Kamil Myszczynski
- Department of Botany and Nature Protection, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Sylwia Swigonska
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Karina Orlowska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Tomasz Molcan
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Jan P Jastrzebski
- Department of Plant Physiology, Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Renata E Ciereszko
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland; Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland
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6
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Developmental and lifelong dioxin exposure induces measurable changes in cardiac structure and function in adulthood. Sci Rep 2021; 11:10378. [PMID: 34001975 PMCID: PMC8129097 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-89825-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common congenital abnormality. A precise etiology for CHD remains elusive, but likely results from interactions between genetic and environmental factors during development, when the heart adapts to physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Further, it has become clearer that early exposure to toxins that do not result in overt CHD may be associated with adverse cardiac outcomes that are not manifested until later life. Previously, interference with endogenous developmental functions of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), either by gene ablation or by in utero exposure to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), a potent AHR ligand, was shown to cause structural, molecular and functional cardiac abnormalities and altered heart physiology in mouse embryos. Here, we show that continuous exposure to TCDD from fertilization throughout adulthood caused male mice to underperform at exercise tolerance tests compared to their control and female counterparts, confirming previous observations of a sexually dimorphic phenotype. Renin-angiotensin stimulation by angiotensin II (Ang II) caused measurable increases in blood pressure and left ventricle mass, along with decreased end diastolic volume and preserved ejection fraction. Interestingly, TCDD exposure caused measurable reductions in the myocardial hypertrophic effects of Ang II, suggesting that endogenous AHR signaling present in adulthood may play a role in the pathogenesis of hypertrophy. Overall, the findings reported in this pilot study highlight the complex systems underlying TCDD exposure in the development of cardiac dysfunction in later life.
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7
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Singleman C, Holtzman NG. PCB and TCDD derived embryonic cardiac defects result from a novel AhR pathway. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2021; 233:105794. [PMID: 33662880 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2021.105794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) are environmental contaminants known to impact cardiac development, a key step in the embryonic development of most animals. To date, little is understood of the molecular mechanism driving the observed cardiac defects in exposed fishes. The literature shows PCB & TCDD derived cardiac defects are concurrent with, but not caused by, expression of cyp1A, due to activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) gene activation pathway. However, in this study, detailed visualization of fish hearts exposed to PCBs and TCDD show that, in addition to a failure of cardiac looping in early heart development, the inner endocardial lining of the heart fails to maintain proper cell adhesion and tissue integrity. The resulting gap between the endocardium and myocardium in both zebrafish and Atlantic sturgeon suggested functional faults in endothelial adherens junction formation. Thus, we explored the molecular mechanism triggering cardiac defects using immunohistochemistry to identify the location and phosphorylation state of key regulatory and adhesion molecules. We hypothesized that PCB and TCDD activates AhR, phosphorylating Src, which then phosphorylates the endothelial adherens junction protein, VEcadherin. When phosphorylated, VEcadherin dimers, found in the endocardium and vasculature, separate, reducing tissue integrity. In zebrafish, treatment with PCB and TCDD contaminants leads to higher phosphorylation of VEcadherin in cardiac tissue suggesting that these cells have reduced connectivity. Small molecule inhibition of Src phosphorylation prevents contaminant stimulated phosphorylation of VEcadherin and rescues both cardiac function and gross morphology. Atlantic sturgeon hearts show parallels to contaminant exposed zebrafish cardiac phenotype at the tissue level. These data suggest that the mechanism for PCB and TCDD action in the heart is, in part, distinct from the canonical mechanism described in the literature and that cardiac defects are impacted by this nongenomic mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinna Singleman
- Department of Biology, Queens College, City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd, Queens NY 11367-1597, USA; The Graduate Center, City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Nathalia G Holtzman
- Department of Biology, Queens College, City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd, Queens NY 11367-1597, USA; The Graduate Center, City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA.
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8
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Smirnova A, Mentor A, Ranefall P, Bornehag CG, Brunström B, Mattsson A, Jönsson M. Increased apoptosis, reduced Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and altered tail development in zebrafish embryos exposed to a human-relevant chemical mixture. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 264:128467. [PMID: 33032226 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
A wide variety of anthropogenic chemicals is detected in humans and wildlife and the health effects of various chemical exposures are not well understood. Early life stages are generally the most susceptible to chemical disruption and developmental exposure can cause disease in adulthood, but the mechanistic understanding of such effects is poor. Within the EU project EDC-MixRisk, a chemical mixture (Mixture G) was identified in the Swedish pregnancy cohort SELMA by the inverse association between levels in women at around gestational week ten with birth weight of their children. This mixture was composed of mono-ethyl phthalate, mono-butyl phthalate, mono-benzyl phthalate, mono-ethylhexyl phthalate, mono-isononyl phthalate, triclosan, perfluorohexane sulfonate, perfluorooctanoic acid, and perfluorooctane sulfonate. In a series of experimental studies, we characterized effects of Mixture G on early development in zebrafish models. Here, we studied apoptosis and Wnt/β-catenin signaling which are two evolutionarily conserved signaling pathways of crucial importance during development. We determined effects on apoptosis by measuring TUNEL staining, caspase-3 activity, and acridine orange staining in wildtype zebrafish embryos, while Wnt/β-catenin signaling was assayed using a transgenic line expressing an EGFP reporter at β-catenin-regulated promoters. We found that Mixture G increased apoptosis, suppressed Wnt/β-catenin signaling in the caudal fin, and altered the shape of the caudal fin at water concentrations only 20-100 times higher than the geometric mean serum concentration in the human cohort. These findings call for awareness that pollutant mixtures like mixture G may interfere with a variety of developmental processes, possibly resulting in adverse health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Smirnova
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; The Centre for Reproductive Biology in Uppsala (CRU), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anna Mentor
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; The Centre for Reproductive Biology in Uppsala (CRU), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Petter Ranefall
- SciLifeLab BioImage Informatics Facility, and Dept of Information Technology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Carl-Gustaf Bornehag
- Public Health Sciences, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
| | - Björn Brunström
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; The Centre for Reproductive Biology in Uppsala (CRU), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anna Mattsson
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; The Centre for Reproductive Biology in Uppsala (CRU), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Maria Jönsson
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; The Centre for Reproductive Biology in Uppsala (CRU), Uppsala, Sweden.
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Meyer-Alert H, Wiseman S, Tang S, Hecker M, Hollert H. Identification of molecular toxicity pathways across early life-stages of zebrafish exposed to PCB126 using a whole transcriptomics approach. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2021; 208:111716. [PMID: 33396047 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2020.111716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Although withdrawn from the market in the 1980s, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are still found ubiquitously in the aquatic environment and pose a serious risk to biota due to their teratogenic potential. In fish, early life-stages are often considered most sensitive with regard to their exposure to PCBs and other dioxin-like compounds. However, little is known about the molecular drivers of the frequently observed teratogenic effects. Therefore, the aims of our study were to: (1) characterize the baseline transcriptome profiles at different embryonic life-stages in zebrafish (Danio rerio); and (2) to identify the molecular response to PCB exposure and life-stage specific-effects of the chemical on associated processes. For both objectives, embryos were sampled at 12, 48, and 96 h post-fertilization (hpf) and subjected to Illumina sequence-by-synthesis and RNAseq analysis. Results revealed that with increasing age more genes and related pathways were upregulated both in terms of number and magnitude. Yet, other transcripts followed an opposite pattern with greater transcript abundance at the earlier time points. Additionally, embryos were exposed to PCB126, a potent agonist of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). ClueGO network analysis revealed significant enrichment of genes associated with basic cell metabolism, communication, and homeostasis as well as eye development, muscle formation, and skeletal formation. We selected eight genes involved in the affected pathways for an in-depth characterization of their regulation throughout normal embryogenesis and after exposure to PCB126 by quantification of transcript abundances every 12 h until 118 hpf. Among these, fgf7 and c9 stood out because of their strong upregulation by PCB126 exposure at 48 and 96 hpf, respectively. Cyp2aa12 was upregulated from 84 hpf on. Fabp10ab, myhz1.1, col8a1a, sulf1, and opn1sw1 displayed specific regulation depending on the developmental stage. Overall, we demonstrate that (1) the developmental transcriptome of zebrafish is highly dynamic, and (2) dysregulation of gene expression by exposure to PCB126 was significant and in several cases not directly connected to AHR-signaling. Hence, this study improves the understanding of linkages between molecular events and apical outcomes that are of regulatory relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henriette Meyer-Alert
- Institute for Environmental Research, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 1, 52074 Aachen, Germany.
| | - Steve Wiseman
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5B3, Canada; Department of Biological Sciences and Water Institute for Sustainable Environments (WISE), University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Song Tang
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5B3, Canada; National Institute of Environmental Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 100021, China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 Jiangsu, China
| | - Markus Hecker
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5B3, Canada
| | - Henner Hollert
- Institute for Environmental Research, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 1, 52074 Aachen, Germany; Department of Evolutionary Ecology and Environmental Toxicology, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Str. 13, 60438 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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10
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de Gannes M, Ko CI, Zhang X, Biesiada J, Niu L, Koch SE, Medvedovic M, Rubinstein J, Puga A. Dioxin Disrupts Dynamic DNA Methylation Patterns in Genes That Govern Cardiomyocyte Maturation. Toxicol Sci 2020; 178:325-337. [PMID: 33017471 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfaa153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital heart disease (CHD), the leading birth defect worldwide, has a largely unknown etiology, likely to result from complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors during heart development, at a time when the heart adapts to diverse physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Crucial among these is the regulation of cardiomyocyte development and postnatal maturation, governed by dynamic changes in DNA methylation. Previous work from our laboratory has shown that exposure to the environmental toxicant tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) disrupts several molecular networks responsible for heart development and function. To test the hypothesis that the disruption caused by TCDD in the heart results from changes in DNA methylation and gene expression patterns of cardiomyocytes, we established a stable mouse embryonic stem cell line expressing a puromycin resistance selectable marker under control of the cardiomyocyte-specific Nkx2-5 promoter. Differentiation of these cells in the presence of puromycin induces the expression of a large suite of cardiomyocyte-specific markers. To assess the consequences of TCDD treatment on gene expression and DNA methylation in these cardiomyocytes, we subjected them to transcriptome and methylome analyses in the presence of TCDD. Unlike control cardiomyocytes maintained in vehicle, the TCDD-treated cardiomyocytes showed extensive gene expression changes, with a significant correlation between differential RNA expression and DNA methylation in 111 genes, many of which are key elements of pathways that regulate cardiovascular development and function. Our findings provide an important clue toward the elucidation of the complex interactions between genetic and epigenetic mechanisms after developmental TCDD exposure that may contribute to CHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew de Gannes
- Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics
| | - Chia-I Ko
- Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics
| | - Jacek Biesiada
- Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics
| | - Liang Niu
- Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics
| | - Sheryl E Koch
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Health and Disease, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267
| | - Mario Medvedovic
- Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics
| | - Jack Rubinstein
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Health and Disease, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267
| | - Alvaro Puga
- Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics
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Shankar P, Dasgupta S, Hahn ME, Tanguay RL. A Review of the Functional Roles of the Zebrafish Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptors. Toxicol Sci 2020; 178:215-238. [PMID: 32976604 PMCID: PMC7706399 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfaa143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last 2 decades, the zebrafish (Danio rerio) has emerged as a stellar model for unraveling molecular signaling events mediated by the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), an important ligand-activated receptor found in all eumetazoan animals. Zebrafish have 3 AHRs-AHR1a, AHR1b, and AHR2, and studies have demonstrated the diversity of both the endogenous and toxicological functions of the zebrafish AHRs. In this contemporary review, we first highlight the evolution of the zebrafish ahr genes, and the characteristics of the receptors including developmental and adult expression, their endogenous and inducible roles, and the predicted ligands from homology modeling studies. We then review the toxicity of a broad spectrum of AHR ligands across multiple life stages (early stage, and adult), discuss their transcriptomic and epigenetic mechanisms of action, and report on any known interactions between the AHRs and other signaling pathways. Through this article, we summarize the promising research that furthers our understanding of the complex AHR pathway through the extensive use of zebrafish as a model, coupled with a large array of molecular techniques. As much of the research has focused on the functions of AHR2 during development and the mechanism of TCDD (2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin) toxicity, we illustrate the need to address the considerable knowledge gap in our understanding of both the mechanistic roles of AHR1a and AHR1b, and the diverse modes of toxicity of the various AHR ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prarthana Shankar
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331
| | - Subham Dasgupta
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331
| | - Mark E Hahn
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543
| | - Robyn L Tanguay
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331
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12
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Coupling Genome-wide Transcriptomics and Developmental Toxicity Profiles in Zebrafish to Characterize Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAH) Hazard. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20102570. [PMID: 31130617 PMCID: PMC6566387 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20102570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are diverse environmental pollutants associated with adverse human health effects. Many studies focus on the carcinogenic effects of a limited number of PAHs and there is an increasing need to understand mechanisms of developmental toxicity of more varied yet environmentally relevant PAHs. A previous study characterized the developmental toxicity of 123 PAHs in zebrafish. Based on phenotypic responses ranging from complete inactivity to acute mortality, we classified these PAHs into eight bins, selected 16 representative PAHs, and exposed developing zebrafish to the concentration of each PAH that induced 80% phenotypic effect. We conducted RNA sequencing at 48 h post fertilization to identify gene expression changes as a result of PAH exposure. Using the Context Likelihood of Relatedness algorithm, we inferred a network that links the PAHs based on coordinated gene responses to PAH exposure. The 16 PAHs formed two broad clusters: Cluster A was transcriptionally more similar to the controls, while Cluster B consisted of PAHs that were generally more developmentally toxic, significantly elevated cyp1a transcript levels, and induced Ahr2-dependent Cyp1a protein expression in the skin confirmed by gene-silencing studies. We found that cyp1a transcript levels were associated with transcriptomic response, but not with PAH developmental toxicity. While all cluster B PAHs predominantly activated Ahr2, they also each enriched unique pathways like ion transport signaling, which likely points to differing molecular events between the PAHs downstream of Ahr2. Thus, using a systems biology approach, we have begun to evaluate, classify, and define mechanisms of PAH toxicity.
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Aida-Yasuoka K, Nishimura N, Fujisawa N, Endo N, Narumiya S, Tohyama C. The role of prostaglandin E 2 receptor EP1 in 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin-induced neonatal hydronephrosis in mice. Toxicology 2019; 415:10-17. [PMID: 30641090 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2019.01.006] [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: 09/10/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is a critical factor in the pathogenesis of dioxin-induced neonatal hydronephrosis. Since the PGE2 receptor has four subtypes, EP1 - EP4, this study was aimed to challenge the hypothesis that at least one of the four subtypes is responsible for the pathogenesis of dioxin-induced hydronephrosis. To this end, we used mouse pups, with a C57BL/6 J background, genetically lacking EP1, EP2, or EP3, and wild-type pups in whom EP4 was suppressed by administering ONO-AE3-208 (ONO), an EP4 antagonist, from postnatal day 1 (PND 1) to PND 13. To expose the pups to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) via lactation, the dams were administered TCDD at an oral dose of 20 μg/kg on PND 1. The pups' urine and kidneys were collected on PND 14 for urinalysis and histological examination, respectively. We found that the incidence of hydronephrosis was 80% in the EP1+/+ group, but was markedly reduced to 28.6% in the EP1-/- group despite the fact that PGE2 concentration in the urine was similarly increased in the both groups. In contrast, the incidence of hydronephrosis was 80% and 100% in the EP2+/+ and EP2-/-groups, respectively, and 88.9% and 100% in the EP3+/+ and EP3-/- groups, respectively. With regard to EP4, the incidence of hydronephrosis in vehicle (saline)-treated groups and ONO-treated was 88.9% and 100%, respectively. Therefore, we concluded that among PGE2 receptor subtypes, EP1 plays a predominant role in the onset of TCDD-induced neonatal hydronephrosis in mouse pups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Aida-Yasuoka
- Laboratory of Environmental Health Sciences, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Noriko Nishimura
- Laboratory of Environmental Health Sciences, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Nozomi Fujisawa
- Laboratory of Environmental Health Sciences, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Nozomi Endo
- Laboratory of Environmental Health Sciences, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Shuh Narumiya
- Department of Drug Discovery Medicine, Medical Innovation Center, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
| | - Chiharu Tohyama
- Laboratory of Environmental Health Sciences, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan; Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan.
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Yoshioka W, Tohyama C. Mechanisms of Developmental Toxicity of Dioxins and Related Compounds. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E617. [PMID: 30708991 PMCID: PMC6387164 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20030617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Dioxins and related compounds induce morphological abnormalities in developing animals in an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR)-dependent manner. Here we review the studies in which 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is used as a prototypical compound to elucidate the pathogenesis of morphological abnormalities. TCDD-induced cleft palate in fetal mice involves a delay in palatogenesis and dissociation of fused palate shelves. TCDD-induced hydronephrosis, once considered to be caused by the anatomical obstruction of the ureter, is now separated into TCDD-induced obstructive and non-obstructive hydronephrosis, which develops during fetal and neonatal periods, respectively. In the latter, a prostaglandin E₂ synthesis pathway and urine concentration system are involved. TCDD-induced abnormal development of prostate involves agenesis of the ventral lobe. A suggested mechanism is that AhR activation in the urogenital sinus mesenchyme by TCDD modulates the wingless-type MMTV integration site family (WNT)/β-catenin signaling cascade to interfere with budding from urogenital sinus epithelium. TCDD exposure to zebrafish embryos induces loss of epicardium progenitor cells and heart malformation. AHR2-dependent downregulation of Sox9b expression in cardiomyocytes is a suggested underlying mechanism. TCDD-induced craniofacial malformation in zebrafish is considered to result from the AHR2-dependent reduction in SRY-box 9b (SOX9b), probably partly via the noncoding RNA slincR, resulting in the underdevelopment of chondrocytes and cartilage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wataru Yoshioka
- Laboratory of Environmental Health Sciences, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan.
| | - Chiharu Tohyama
- Laboratory of Environmental Health Sciences, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan.
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Chiappini F, Sánchez M, Miret N, Cocca C, Zotta E, Ceballos L, Pontillo C, Bilotas M, Randi A. Exposure to environmental concentrations of hexachlorobenzene induces alterations associated with endometriosis progression in a rat model. Food Chem Toxicol 2018; 123:151-161. [PMID: 30393115 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2018.10.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Revised: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) is a dioxin-like compound widely distributed and is a weak ligand of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). Endometriosis is a disease characterized by growth of endometrial tissue in ectopic sites. Our aim was to investigate the impact of HCB on the endocrine, invasion and inflammatory parameters in a rat endometriosis model surgically induced. Female rats were exposed to HCB (1, 10 and 100 mg/kg b.w.) during 30 days. Results showed that HCB increases endometriotic like-lesions (L) volume in a dose-dependent manner. In L, HCB10 increases microvessel density (immunohistochemistry) and the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and AhR levels (Western Blot), while HCB1 enhances aromatase expression (Western Blot). In addition, in eutopic endometrium (EU), HCB10/HCB100 augments microvessel density, VEGF and MMP-9 expression, while HCB1/HCB10 increases tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) content in peritoneal fluid (ELISA). Interestingly, both L and EU from HCB-treated rats exhibited higher estrogen receptor α (ERα) (immunohistochemistry) and metalloproteases (MMP)-2 and -9 levels (Western Blot), as well as lower progesterone receptor (PR) expression (immunohistochemistry) than in control rats. Environmentally relevant concentrations of HCB could contribute to abnormal changes associated with endometriosis progression and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florencia Chiappini
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Laboratorio de Efectos Biológicos de Contaminantes Ambientales, Paraguay 2155, 5th Floor, CP1121, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Marcela Sánchez
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Laboratorio de Efectos Biológicos de Contaminantes Ambientales, Paraguay 2155, 5th Floor, CP1121, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Noelia Miret
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Laboratorio de Efectos Biológicos de Contaminantes Ambientales, Paraguay 2155, 5th Floor, CP1121, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Claudia Cocca
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Laboratorio de Radioisótopos, Junín 954, CP1113, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Elsa Zotta
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Ciencias Fisiológicas, Sección Patología, Laboratorio de Fisiopatogenia, Paraguay 2155, 7th Floor, CP1121, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Leandro Ceballos
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Laboratorio de Efectos Biológicos de Contaminantes Ambientales, Paraguay 2155, 5th Floor, CP1121, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Carolina Pontillo
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Laboratorio de Efectos Biológicos de Contaminantes Ambientales, Paraguay 2155, 5th Floor, CP1121, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Mariela Bilotas
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, IBYME-CONICET, Laboratorio de Inmunología de la Reproducción, Vuelta de Obligado 2490, CP1428, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Andrea Randi
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica Humana, Laboratorio de Efectos Biológicos de Contaminantes Ambientales, Paraguay 2155, 5th Floor, CP1121, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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16
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Rannug A, Rannug U. The tryptophan derivative 6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole, FICZ, a dynamic mediator of endogenous aryl hydrocarbon receptor signaling, balances cell growth and differentiation. Crit Rev Toxicol 2018; 48:555-574. [PMID: 30226107 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2018.1493086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is not essential to survival, but does act as a key regulator of many normal physiological events. The role of this receptor in toxicological processes has been studied extensively, primarily employing the high-affinity ligand 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). However, regulation of physiological responses by endogenous AHR ligands remains to be elucidated. Here, we review developments in this field, with a focus on 6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ), the endogenous ligand with the highest affinity to the receptor reported to date. The binding of FICZ to different isoforms of the AHR seems to be evolutionarily well conserved and there is a feedback loop that controls AHR activity through metabolic degradation of FICZ via the highly inducible cytochrome P450 1A1. Several investigations provide strong evidence that FICZ plays a critical role in normal physiological processes and can ameliorate immune diseases with remarkable efficiency. Low levels of FICZ are pro-inflammatory, providing resistance to pathogenic bacteria, stimulating the anti-tumor functions, and promoting the differentiation of cancer cells by repressing genes in cancer stem cells. In contrast, at high concentrations FICZ behaves in a manner similar to TCDD, exhibiting toxicity toward fish and bird embryos, immune suppression, and activation of cancer progression. The findings are indicative of a dual role for endogenously activated AHR in barrier tissues, aiding clearance of infections and suppressing immunity to terminate a vicious cycle that might otherwise lead to disease. There is not much support for the AHR ligand-specific immune responses proposed, the differences between FICZ and TCDD in this context appear to be explained by the rapid metabolism of FICZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agneta Rannug
- a Karolinska Institutet, Institute of Environmental Medicine , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Ulf Rannug
- b Department of Molecular Biosciences , The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University , Stockholm , Sweden
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17
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Rasinger J, Carroll T, Maranghi F, Tassinari R, Moracci G, Altieri I, Mantovani A, Lundebye AK, Hogstrand C. Low dose exposure to HBCD, CB-153 or TCDD induces histopathological and hormonal effects and changes in brain protein and gene expression in juvenile female BALB/c mice. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 80:105-116. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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18
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Shah F, Medvedev A, Wassermann AM, Brodney M, Zhang L, Makarov S, Stanton RV. The Identification of Pivotal Transcriptional Factors Mediating Cell Responses to Drugs With Drug-Induced Liver Injury Liabilities. Toxicol Sci 2018; 162:177-188. [PMID: 29106686 PMCID: PMC6257024 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfx231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a leading cause of drug attrition during drug development and a common reason for drug withdrawal from the market. The poor predictability of conventional animal-based approaches necessitates the development of alternative testing approaches. A body of evidence associates DILI with the induction of stress-response genes in liver cells. Here, we set out to identify signal transduction pathways predominantly involved in the regulation of gene transcription by DILI drugs. To this end, we employed ATTAGENE's cell-based multiplexed reporter assay, the FACTORIAL transcription factor (TF), that enables quantitative assessment of the activity of multiple stress-responsive TFs in a single well of cells. Homogeneous reporter system enables quantitative functional assessment of multiple transcription factors. Nat. Methods 5, 253-260). Using this assay, we assessed TF responses of the human hepatoma cell line HepG2 to a panel of 64 drug candidates, including 23 preclinical DILI and 11 clinical DILI compounds and 30 nonhepatotoxic compounds from a diverse physicochemical property space. We have identified 16 TF families that specifically responded to DILI drugs, including nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 antioxidant response element, octamer, hypoxia inducible factor 1 alpha, farnesoid-X receptor, TCF/beta-catenin, aryl hydrocarbon receptor, activator protein-1, E2F, early growth response-1, metal-response transcription factor 1, sterol regulatory element-binding protein, paired box protein, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor, liver X receptor, interferone regulating factor, and P53, and 2 promoters that responded to multiple TFs (cytomegalovirus and direct repeat 3/vitamin D receptor). Some of TFs identified here also have previously defined role in pathogenesis of liver diseases. These data demonstrate the utility of cost-effective, animal-free, TF profiling assay for detecting DILI potential of drug candidates at early stages of drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Falgun Shah
- Computational Sciences, Worldwide Medicinal Chemistry, Pfizer Inc,
Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
| | | | - Anne Mai Wassermann
- Computational Sciences, Worldwide Medicinal Chemistry, Pfizer Inc,
Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
| | - Marian Brodney
- Computational Sciences, Worldwide Medicinal Chemistry, Pfizer Inc,
Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
| | - Liying Zhang
- Computational Sciences, Worldwide Medicinal Chemistry, Pfizer Inc,
Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
| | | | - Robert V Stanton
- Computational Sciences, Worldwide Medicinal Chemistry, Pfizer Inc,
Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
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Hahn ME, Karchner SI, Merson RR. Diversity as Opportunity: Insights from 600 Million Years of AHR Evolution. CURRENT OPINION IN TOXICOLOGY 2017; 2:58-71. [PMID: 28286876 DOI: 10.1016/j.cotox.2017.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) was for many years of interest only to pharmacologists and toxicologists. However, this protein has fundamental roles in biology that are being revealed through studies in diverse animal species. The AHR is an ancient protein. AHR homologs exist in most major groups of modern bilaterian animals, including deuterostomes (chordates, hemichordates, echinoderms) and the two major clades of protostome invertebrates [ecdysozoans (e.g. arthropods and nematodes) and lophotrochozoans (e.g. molluscs and annelids)]. AHR homologs also have been identified in cnidarians such as the sea anemone Nematostella and in the genome of Trichoplax, a placozoan. Bilaterians, cnidarians, and placozoans form the clade Eumetazoa, whose last common ancestor lived approximately 600 million years ago (MYA). The presence of AHR homologs in modern representatives of all these groups indicates that the original eumetazoan animal possessed an AHR homolog. Studies in invertebrates and vertebrates reveal parallel functions of AHR in the development and function of sensory neural systems, suggesting that these may be ancestral roles. Vertebrate animals are characterized by the expansion and diversification of AHRs, via gene and genome duplications, from the ancestral protoAHR into at least five classes of AHR-like proteins: AHR, AHR1, AHR2, AHR3, and AHRR. The evolution of multiple AHRs in vertebrates coincided with the acquisition of high-affinity binding of halogenated and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons and the emergence of adaptive functions involving regulation of xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes and roles in adaptive immunity. The existence of multiple AHRs may have facilitated subfunction partitioning and specialization of specific AHR types in some taxa. Additional research in diverse model and non-model species will continue to enrich our understanding of AHR and its pleiotropic roles in biology and toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark E Hahn
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, MS-32, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA
| | - Sibel I Karchner
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, MS-32, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA
| | - Rebeka R Merson
- Biology Department, Rhode Island College, 600 Mt. Pleasant Avenue, 251 Fogarty Life Sciences, Providence, RI 02908
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Yoshioka W, Kawaguchi T, Nishimura N, Akagi T, Fujisawa N, Yanagisawa H, Matsumura F, Tohyama C. Polyuria-associated hydronephrosis induced by xenobiotic chemical exposure in mice. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2016; 311:F752-F762. [DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00001.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 07/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hydronephrosis is a commonly found disease state characterized by the dilation of renal calices and pelvis, resulting in the loss of kidney function in the severest cases. A generally accepted etiology of hydronephrosis involves the obstruction of urine flow along the urinary tract. In the recent years, we have developed a mouse model of hydronephrosis induced by lactational exposure to dioxin and demonstrated a lack of anatomical obstruction in this model. We also showed that prostaglandin E2 synthesis system plays a critical role in the onset of hydronephrosis. In the present study, we found that neonatal hydronephrosis was not likely to be associated with functional obstruction (impaired peristalsis) but was found to be associated with polyuria and low urine osmolality with the downregulation of proteins involved in the urine concentrating process. The administration of an antidiuretic hormone analog to the dioxin-exposed pups not only suppressed the increased urine output but also decreased the incidence and severity of hydronephrosis. In contrast to the case in pups, administration of dioxin to adult mice failed to induce polyuria and upregulation of prostaglandin E2 synthesis system, and the adult mice were resistant to develop hydronephrosis. These findings suggest the possibility that polyuria could induce hydronephrosis in the absence of anatomical or functional obstruction of the ureter. It is concluded that the present animal model provides a unique example of polyuria-associated type of hydronephrosis, suggesting a need to redefine this disease state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wataru Yoshioka
- Laboratory of Environmental Health Sciences, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Public Health and Environmental Medicine, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Kawaguchi
- Laboratory of Environmental Health Sciences, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Noriko Nishimura
- Laboratory of Environmental Health Sciences, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshiya Akagi
- Laboratory of Environmental Health Sciences, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nozomi Fujisawa
- Laboratory of Environmental Health Sciences, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Yanagisawa
- Department of Public Health and Environmental Medicine, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Fumio Matsumura
- Department of Environmental Toxicology and Center for Environmental Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, California; and
| | - Chiharu Tohyama
- Laboratory of Environmental Health Sciences, Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Environmental Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
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21
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Enhanced cyclooxygenase-2 expression levels and metalloproteinase 2 and 9 activation by Hexachlorobenzene in human endometrial stromal cells. Biochem Pharmacol 2016; 109:91-104. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2016.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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22
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AhR signaling activation disrupts migration and dendritic growth of olfactory interneurons in the developing mouse. Sci Rep 2016; 6:26386. [PMID: 27197834 PMCID: PMC4873754 DOI: 10.1038/srep26386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Perinatal exposure to a low level of dioxin, a ubiquitous environmental pollutant, has been shown to induce abnormalities in learning and memory, emotion, and sociality in laboratory animals later in adulthood. However, how aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) signaling activation disrupts the higher brain function remains unclear. Therefore, we studied the possible effects of excessive activation of AhR signaling on neurodevelopmental processes, such as cellular migration and neurite growth, in mice. To this end, we transfected a constitutively active-AhR plasmid into stem cells in the lateral ventricle by in vivo electroporation on postnatal day 1. Transfection was found to induce tangential migration delay and morphological abnormalities in neuronal precursors in the rostral migratory stream at 6 days post-electroporation (dpe) as well as disrupt radial migration in the olfactory bulb and apical and basal dendritic growth of the olfactory interneurons in the granule cell layer at 13 and 20 dpe. These results suggest that the retarded development of interneurons by the excessive AhR signaling may at least in part explain the dioxin-induced abnormal behavioral alterations previously reported in laboratory animals.
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23
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Rathore K, Cekanova M. Effects of environmental carcinogen benzo(a)pyrene on canine adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells. Res Vet Sci 2015; 103:34-43. [PMID: 26679793 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2015.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Revised: 07/29/2015] [Accepted: 09/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Dogs and their owners share the same environment and are subjected to similar environmental risk factors for developing breast cancer. Adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) may affect development and progression of breast cancer. In this study, we evaluated the effects of environmental carcinogen benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) on proliferation and differentiation of ADMSCs isolated from dogs. We characterized eight canine ADMSC lines and studied the effects of BaP on cell proliferation and differentiation. BaP did not inhibit cell proliferation of ADMSCs; however, BaP significantly inhibited differentiation potential of ADMSCs into adipocytes. BaP down-regulated AhR protein levels; however, increased its translocation from the cytoplasm to nucleus and suppressed PPARγ expression during adipogenesis. BaP increased the expression of AhR signaling pathway protein, cytochrome P450 (CYP1A1) in ADMSCs. Our data suggest that canine ADMSCs are susceptible to the environmental carcinogen BaP through AhR and PPARγ signaling pathways and may contribute to canine mammary carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kusum Rathore
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA.
| | - Maria Cekanova
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA.
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Carreira VS, Fan Y, Kurita H, Wang Q, Ko CI, Naticchioni M, Jiang M, Koch S, Zhang X, Biesiada J, Medvedovic M, Xia Y, Rubinstein J, Puga A. Disruption of Ah Receptor Signaling during Mouse Development Leads to Abnormal Cardiac Structure and Function in the Adult. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0142440. [PMID: 26555816 PMCID: PMC4640841 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0142440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 10/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) Theory proposes that the environment encountered during fetal life and infancy permanently shapes tissue physiology and homeostasis such that damage resulting from maternal stress, poor nutrition or exposure to environmental agents may be at the heart of adult onset disease. Interference with endogenous developmental functions of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), either by gene ablation or by exposure in utero to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), a potent AHR ligand, causes structural, molecular and functional cardiac abnormalities and altered heart physiology in mouse embryos. To test if embryonic effects progress into an adult phenotype, we investigated whether Ahr ablation or TCDD exposure in utero resulted in cardiac abnormalities in adult mice long after removal of the agent. Ten-months old adult Ahr-/- and in utero TCDD-exposed Ahr+/+ mice showed sexually dimorphic abnormal cardiovascular phenotypes characterized by echocardiographic findings of hypertrophy, ventricular dilation and increased heart weight, resting heart rate and systolic and mean blood pressure, and decreased exercise tolerance. Underlying these effects, genes in signaling networks related to cardiac hypertrophy and mitochondrial function were differentially expressed. Cardiac dysfunction in mouse embryos resulting from AHR signaling disruption seems to progress into abnormal cardiac structure and function that predispose adults to cardiac disease, but while embryonic dysfunction is equally robust in males and females, the adult abnormalities are more prevalent in females, with the highest severity in Ahr-/- females. The findings reported here underscore the conclusion that AHR signaling in the developing heart is one potential target of environmental factors associated with cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinicius S. Carreira
- Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267, United States of America
| | - Yunxia Fan
- Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267, United States of America
| | - Hisaka Kurita
- Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267, United States of America
| | - Qin Wang
- Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267, United States of America
| | - Chia-I Ko
- Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267, United States of America
| | - Mindi Naticchioni
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Health and Disease, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267, United States of America
| | - Min Jiang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Health and Disease, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267, United States of America
| | - Sheryl Koch
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Health and Disease, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267, United States of America
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267, United States of America
| | - Jacek Biesiada
- Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267, United States of America
| | - Mario Medvedovic
- Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267, United States of America
| | - Ying Xia
- Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267, United States of America
| | - Jack Rubinstein
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Health and Disease, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267, United States of America
| | - Alvaro Puga
- Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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25
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Developmental origin of abnormal dendritic growth in the mouse brain induced by in utero disruption of aryl hydrocarbon receptor signaling. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2015; 52:42-50. [PMID: 26526904 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2015.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2015] [Revised: 09/26/2015] [Accepted: 10/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Increased prevalence of mental disorders cannot be solely attributed to genetic factors and is considered at least partly attributable to chemical exposure. Among various environmental chemicals, in utero and lactational dioxin exposure has been extensively studied and is known to induce higher brain function abnormalities in both humans and laboratory animals. However, how the perinatal dioxin exposure affects neuromorphological alterations has remained largely unknown. Therefore, in this study, we initially studied whether and how the over-expression of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a dioxin receptor, would affect the dendritic growth in the hippocampus of the developing brain. Transfecting a constitutively active AhR plasmid into the hippocampus via in utero electroporation on gestational day (GD) 14 induced abnormal dendritic branch growth. Further, we observed that 14-day-old mice born to dams administered with 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD; dose: 0, 0.6, or 3.0 μg/kg) on GD 12.5 exhibited disrupted dendritic branch growth in both the hippocampus and amygdala. Finally, we observed that 16-month-old mice born to dams exposed to perinatal TCDD as described above exhibited significantly reduced spine densities. These results indicated that abnormal micromorphology observed in the developing brain may persist until adulthood and may induce abnormal higher brain function later in life.
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26
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Rousseau ME, Sant KE, Borden LR, Franks DG, Hahn ME, Timme-Laragy AR. Regulation of Ahr signaling by Nrf2 during development: Effects of Nrf2a deficiency on PCB126 embryotoxicity in zebrafish (Danio rerio). AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2015; 167:157-71. [PMID: 26325326 PMCID: PMC4703126 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2015.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2015] [Revised: 08/05/2015] [Accepted: 08/07/2015] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The embryotoxicity of co-planar PCBs is regulated by the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (Ahr), and has been reported to involve oxidative stress. Ahr participates in crosstalk with another transcription factor, Nfe2l2, or Nrf2. Nrf2 binds to antioxidant response elements to regulate the adaptive response to oxidative stress. To explore aspects of the crosstalk between Nrf2 and Ahr and its impact on development, we used zebrafish (Danio rerio) with a mutated DNA binding domain in Nrf2a (nrf2a(fh318/fh318)), rendering these embryos more sensitive to oxidative stress. Embryos were exposed to 2 nM or 5 nM PCB126 at 24 h post fertilization (prim-5 stage of pharyngula) and examined for gene expression and morphology at 4 days post fertilization (dpf; protruding - mouth stage). Nrf2a mutant eleutheroembryos were more sensitive to PCB126 toxicity at 4 dpf, and in the absence of treatment also displayed some subtle developmental differences from wildtype embryos, including delayed inflation of the swim bladder and smaller yolk sacs. We used qPCR to measure changes in expression of the nrf gene family, keap1a, keap1b, the ahr gene family, and known target genes. cyp1a induction by PCB126 was enhanced in the Nrf2a mutants (156-fold in wildtypes vs. 228-fold in mutants exposed to 5 nM). Decreased expression of heme oxygenase (decycling) 1 (hmox1) in the Nrf2a mutants was accompanied by increased nrf2b expression. Target genes of Nrf2a and AhR2, NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (nqo1) and glutathione S-transferase, alpha-like (gsta1), showed a 2-5-fold increase in expression in the Nrf2a mutants as compared to wildtype. This study elucidates the interaction between two important transcription factor pathways in the developmental toxicity of co-planar PCBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle E Rousseau
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, United States.
| | - Karilyn E Sant
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, United States.
| | - Linnea R Borden
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, United States.
| | - Diana G Franks
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA 02543, United States.
| | - Mark E Hahn
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA 02543, United States.
| | - Alicia R Timme-Laragy
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, United States; Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA 02543, United States.
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27
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Carreira VS, Fan Y, Wang Q, Zhang X, Kurita H, Ko CI, Naticchioni M, Jiang M, Koch S, Medvedovic M, Xia Y, Rubinstein J, Puga A. Ah Receptor Signaling Controls the Expression of Cardiac Development and Homeostasis Genes. Toxicol Sci 2015; 147:425-35. [PMID: 26139165 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfv138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common congenital abnormality and one of the leading causes of newborn death throughout the world. Despite much emerging scientific information, the precise etiology of this disease remains elusive. Here, we show that the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) regulates the expression of crucial cardiogenesis genes and that interference with endogenous AHR functions, either by gene ablation or by agonist exposure during early development, causes overlapping structural and functional cardiac abnormalities that lead to altered fetal heart physiology, including higher heart rates, right and left ventricle dilation, higher stroke volume, and reduced ejection fraction. With striking similarity between AHR knockout (Ahr(-/-)) and agonist-exposed wild type (Ahr(+/+)) embryos, in utero disruption of endogenous AHR functions converge into dysregulation of molecular mechanisms needed for attainment and maintenance of cardiac differentiation, including the pivotal signals regulated by the cardiogenic transcription factor NKH2.5, energy balance via oxidative phosphorylation and TCA cycle and global mitochondrial function and homeostasis. Our findings suggest that AHR signaling in the developing mammalian heart is central to the regulation of pathways crucial for cellular metabolism, cardiogenesis, and cardiac function, which are potential targets of environmental factors associated with CHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinicius S Carreira
- *Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics and
| | - Yunxia Fan
- *Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics and
| | - Qing Wang
- *Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics and
| | - Xiang Zhang
- *Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics and
| | - Hisaka Kurita
- *Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics and
| | - Chia-I Ko
- *Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics and
| | - Mindi Naticchioni
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiology Division, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267
| | - Min Jiang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiology Division, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267
| | - Sheryl Koch
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiology Division, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267
| | - Mario Medvedovic
- *Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics and
| | - Ying Xia
- *Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics and
| | - Jack Rubinstein
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiology Division, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267
| | - Alvaro Puga
- *Department of Environmental Health and Center for Environmental Genetics and
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28
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Oh S. Disturbance in testosterone production in leydig cells by polycyclic aromatic hydevrepocarbons. Dev Reprod 2015; 18:187-95. [PMID: 25949189 DOI: 10.12717/devrep.2014.18.4.187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Revised: 11/08/2014] [Accepted: 11/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydevrepocarbons (PAHs), which are ubiquitous in the air, are present as volatile and particulate pollutants that result from incomplete combustion. Most PAHs have toxic, mutagenic, and/or carcinogenic properties. Among PAHs, benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) and dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) are suspected endocrine disruptors. The testis is an important target for PAHs, yet effects on steroidogenesis in Leydig cells are yet to be ascertained. Particularly, disruption of testosterone production by these chemicals can result in serious defects in male reproduction. Exposure to B[a]P reduced serum and intratesticular fluid testosterone levels in rats. Of note, the testosterone level reductions were accompanied by decreased steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) and 3β-hydevrepoxysteroid dehydevrepogenase isomerase (3β-HSD) expression in Leydig cells. B[a]P exposure can decrease epididymal sperm quality, possibly by disturbing the testosterone level. StAR may be a key steroidogenic protein that is targeted by B[a]P or other PAHs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seunghoon Oh
- Dept. of Physiology, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, Korea
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29
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Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are ubiquitous in the air, are
present as volatile and particulate pollutants that result from incomplete
combustion. Most PAHs have toxic, mutagenic, and/or carcinogenic properties.
Among PAHs, benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) and dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) are
suspected endocrine disruptors. The testis is an important target for PAHs, yet
effects on steroidogenesis in Leydig cells are yet to be ascertained.
Particularly, disruption of testosterone production by these chemicals can
result in serious defects in male reproduction. Exposure to B[a]P reduced serum
and intratesticular fluid testosterone levels in rats. Of note, the testosterone
level reductions were accompanied by decreased steroidogenic acute regulatory
protein (StAR) and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase isomerase
(3β-HSD) expression in Leydig cells. B[a]P exposure can decrease
epididymal sperm quality, possibly by disturbing the testosterone level. StAR
may be a key steroidogenic protein that is targeted by B[a]P or other PAHs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seunghoon Oh
- Dept. of Physiology, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, Korea
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30
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Male reproductive cancers and infertility: a mutual relationship. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:7230-60. [PMID: 25837470 PMCID: PMC4425014 DOI: 10.3390/ijms16047230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2015] [Revised: 03/29/2015] [Accepted: 03/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproductive dysfunction and malignancies related to the male gender represent a serious health concern, whose incidence has significantly risen over the past years. Prior to treatment, testicular or prostate cancer patients often display poor semen characteristics similar to subfertile or infertile patients. This fact is underscored by cases where the malignancy is often diagnosed in males who undergo a general fertility screening. This review aims to examine the associations between male infertility and reproductive cancers focusing on common etiologies and biological mechanisms underlining these pathologies. Furthermore, we discuss compelling epidemiological data hypothesizing that male reproductive failure may act as a precursor of future andrological malignancies, including testicular or prostate cancer, thus providing a stimulus for a more specific research in male reproductive health and emphasizing the importance of this relation for physicians taking care of male patients with a reproductive disease.
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31
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Groh KJ, Carvalho RN, Chipman JK, Denslow ND, Halder M, Murphy CA, Roelofs D, Rolaki A, Schirmer K, Watanabe KH. Development and application of the adverse outcome pathway framework for understanding and predicting chronic toxicity: II. A focus on growth impairment in fish. CHEMOSPHERE 2015; 120:778-792. [PMID: 25456049 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2014.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2014] [Revised: 10/01/2014] [Accepted: 10/02/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Adverse outcome pathways (AOPs) organize knowledge on the progression of toxicity through levels of biological organization. By determining the linkages between toxicity events at different levels, AOPs lay the foundation for mechanism-based alternative testing approaches to hazard assessment. Here, we focus on growth impairment in fish to illustrate the initial stages in the process of AOP development for chronic toxicity outcomes. Growth is an apical endpoint commonly assessed in chronic toxicity tests for which a replacement is desirable. Based on several criteria, we identified reduction in food intake to be a suitable key event for initiation of middle-out AOP development. To start exploring the upstream and downstream links of this key event, we developed three AOP case studies, for pyrethroids, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and cadmium. Our analysis showed that the effect of pyrethroids and SSRIs on food intake is strongly linked to growth impairment, while cadmium causes a reduction in growth due to increased metabolic demands rather than changes in food intake. Locomotion impairment by pyrethroids is strongly linked to their effects on food intake and growth, while for SSRIs their direct influence on appetite may play a more important role. We further discuss which alternative tests could be used to inform on the predictive key events identified in the case studies. In conclusion, our work demonstrates how the AOP concept can be used in practice to assess critically the knowledge available for specific chronic toxicity cases and to identify existing knowledge gaps and potential alternative tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ksenia J Groh
- Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland; ETH Zürich, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Raquel N Carvalho
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Environment and Sustainability, Water Resources Unit, 21027 Ispra, Italy
| | | | - Nancy D Denslow
- University of Florida, Department of Physiological Sciences, Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology and Genetics Institute, 32611 Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Marlies Halder
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Health and Consumer Protection, Systems Toxicology Unit, 21027 Ispra, Italy
| | - Cheryl A Murphy
- Michigan State University, Fisheries and Wildlife, Lyman Briggs College, 48824 East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Dick Roelofs
- VU University, Institute of Ecological Science, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alexandra Rolaki
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Health and Consumer Protection, Systems Toxicology Unit, 21027 Ispra, Italy
| | - Kristin Schirmer
- Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland; ETH Zürich, Department of Environmental Systems Science, 8092 Zürich, Switzerland; EPF Lausanne, School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Karen H Watanabe
- Oregon Health & Science University, Institute of Environmental Health, Division of Environmental and Biomolecular Systems, 97239-3098 Portland, OR, USA
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32
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Kędzior M, Seredyński R, Godzik U, Tomczyk D, Gutowicz J, Terlecka E, Całkosiński I, Terlecki G. Inhibition of cathepsin B activity by 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:733-737. [PMID: 25163566 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-014-3482-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2014] [Accepted: 08/18/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is the most potent toxic isomer in the dioxin-like family. Due to its resistance to metabolic degradation, this ubiquitous environmental pollutant readily accumulates in multiple organs. Cathepsin B is a lysosomal cysteine protease playing an essential role in the intracellular protein turnover. Alterations in its expression, activity, and localization may facilitate the development of many pathologies, including cancer. TCDD, due to its extremely lipophilic nature, may diffuse through biological membranes and affect lysosomal enzymes, including cathepsins. Therefore, in this study we performed two enzymatic assays, spectrofluorimetry and gelatin zymography, in order to evaluate the effect of TCDD on purified bovine cathepsin B. We showed that the dioxin decreases the enzyme's activity in a dose-dependent manner. The reversibility of TCDD-induced inhibition of the protease was also examined, suggesting that TCDD does not bind covalently to the enzyme's active site, acting rather as a reversible inhibitor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateusz Kędzior
- Department of Physical Chemistry of Microorganisms, Institute of Genetics and Microbiology, University of Wrocław, Przybyszewskiego 63/77, 51-148, Wrocław, Poland
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33
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Schneider AJ, Branam AM, Peterson RE. Intersection of AHR and Wnt signaling in development, health, and disease. Int J Mol Sci 2014; 15:17852-85. [PMID: 25286307 PMCID: PMC4227194 DOI: 10.3390/ijms151017852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2014] [Revised: 09/04/2014] [Accepted: 09/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The AHR (aryl hydrocarbon receptor) and Wnt (wingless-related MMTV integration site) signaling pathways have been conserved throughout evolution. Appropriately regulated signaling through each pathway is necessary for normal development and health, while dysregulation can lead to developmental defects and disease. Though both pathways have been vigorously studied, there is relatively little research exploring the possibility of crosstalk between these pathways. In this review, we provide a brief background on (1) the roles of both AHR and Wnt signaling in development and disease, and (2) the molecular mechanisms that characterize activation of each pathway. We also discuss the need for careful and complete experimental evaluation of each pathway and describe existing research that explores the intersection of AHR and Wnt signaling. Lastly, to illustrate in detail the intersection of AHR and Wnt signaling, we summarize our recent findings which show that 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD)-induced disruption of Wnt signaling impairs fetal prostate development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Schneider
- School of Pharmacy and Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Center University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
| | - Amanda M Branam
- School of Pharmacy and Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Center University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
| | - Richard E Peterson
- School of Pharmacy and Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Center University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
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34
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Taura J, Takeda T, Fujii M, Hattori Y, Ishii Y, Kuroki H, Tsukimori K, Uchi H, Furue M, Yamada H. 2,3,4,7,8-Pentachlorodibenzofuran is far less potent than 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin in disrupting the pituitary-gonad axis of the rat fetus. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2014; 281:48-57. [PMID: 25220434 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2014.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2014] [Revised: 07/19/2014] [Accepted: 09/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The effect of 2,3,4,7,8-pentachlorodibenzofuran (PnCDF) on the fetal pituitary-gonad axis was compared with that produced by 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) in Wistar rats. Maternal treatment at gestational day (GD) 15 with PnCDF and TCDD reduced the fetal expression at GD20 of pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH) and the testicular proteins necessary for steroidogenesis. The relative potencies of PnCDF ranged from 1/42nd to 1/63rd of the TCDD effect. While PnCDF, at a dose sufficient to cause a reduction in fetal LH, provoked defects in sexual behavior at adulthood, a dose less than the ED50 failed to produce any abnormality. There was a loss of fetal body weight following in utero exposure to PnCDF, and the effect of PnCDF was also much less than that of TCDD. The disturbance in fetal growth was suggested to be due to a reduction in the level of fetal growth hormone (GH) by dioxins. The disorder caused by PnCDF/TCDD in the fetal pituitary-gonad axis occurred at doses less than those needed to cause wasting syndrome in pubertal rats. The harmful effect of PnCDF relative to TCDD was more pronounced in fetal rats than in pubertal rats. These lines of evidence suggest that: 1) PnCDF as well as TCDD imprints defects in sexual behavior by disrupting the fetal pituitary-gonad axis; 2) these dioxins hinder fetal growth by reducing the expression of fetal GH; and 3) the fetal effects of PnCDF/TCDD are more sensitive than sub-acute toxicity during puberty, and the relative effect of PnCDF varies markedly depending on the indices used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junki Taura
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tomoki Takeda
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Misaki Fujii
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yukiko Hattori
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yuji Ishii
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | | | - Kiyomi Tsukimori
- Department of Obstetrics, Fukuoka Children's Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Uchi
- Research and Clinical Center for Yusho and Dioxin, Kyushu University Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Masutaka Furue
- Research and Clinical Center for Yusho and Dioxin, Kyushu University Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan; Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Yamada
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.
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35
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Hecht E, Zago M, Sarill M, Rico de Souza A, Gomez A, Matthews J, Hamid Q, Eidelman DH, Baglole CJ. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor-dependent regulation of miR-196a expression controls lung fibroblast apoptosis but not proliferation. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2014; 280:511-25. [PMID: 25178717 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2014.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2014] [Revised: 08/20/2014] [Accepted: 08/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor implicated in the regulation of apoptosis and proliferation. Although activation of the AhR by xenobiotics such as dioxin inhibits the cell cycle and control apoptosis, paradoxically, AhR expression also promotes cell proliferation and survival independent of exogenous ligands. The microRNA (miRNA) miR-196a has also emerged as a regulator of proliferation and apoptosis but a relationship between the AhR and miR-196a is not known. Therefore, we hypothesized that AhR-dependent regulation of endogenous miR-196a expression would promote cell survival and proliferation. Utilizing lung fibroblasts from AhR deficient (AhR(-/-)) and wild-type (AhR(+/+)) mice, we show that there is ligand-independent regulation of miRNA, including low miR-196a in AhR(-/-) cells. Validation by qRT-PCR revealed a significant decrease in basal expression of miR-196a in AhR(-/-) compared to AhR(+/+) cells. Exposure to AhR agonists benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) and FICZ as well as AhR antagonist CH-223191 decreased miR-196a expression in AhR(+/+) fibroblasts concomitant with decreased AhR protein levels. There was increased proliferation only in AhR(+/+) lung fibroblasts in response to serum, corresponding to a decrease in p27(KIP1) protein, a cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor. Increasing the cellular levels of miR-196a had no effect on proliferation or expression of p27(KIP1) in AhR(-/-) fibroblasts but attenuated cigarette smoke-induced apoptosis. This study provides the first evidence that AhR expression is essential for the physiological regulation of cellular miRNA levels- including miR-196a. Future experiments designed to elucidate the functional relationship between the AhR and miR-196a may delineate additional novel ligand-independent roles for the AhR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emelia Hecht
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Michela Zago
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Miles Sarill
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Angela Rico de Souza
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Alvin Gomez
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jason Matthews
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Qutayba Hamid
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - David H Eidelman
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Carolyn J Baglole
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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Kishi R, Kobayashi S, Ikeno T, Araki A, Miyashita C, Itoh S, Sasaki S, Okada E, Kobayashi S, Kashino I, Itoh K, Nakajima S. Ten years of progress in the Hokkaido birth cohort study on environment and children's health: cohort profile--updated 2013. Environ Health Prev Med 2014; 18:429-50. [PMID: 23959649 DOI: 10.1007/s12199-013-0357-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2013] [Accepted: 07/30/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hokkaido Study on Environment and Children's Health is an ongoing cohort study that began in 2002. The study consists of two prospective birth cohorts, the Sapporo cohort (n = 514) and the Hokkaido large-scale cohort (n = 20,940). The primary goals of this study are to first examine the potential negative effects of perinatal environmental chemical exposures on birth outcomes, including congenital malformations and growth retardation; second, to evaluate the development of allergies, infectious diseases and neurodevelopmental disorders and perform longitudinal observations of the children's physical development to clarify the causal relationship between these outcomes and environmental chemicals; third, to identify individuals genetically susceptible to environmental chemicals; finally, to identify the additive effects of various environmental factors in our daily life, such as secondhand smoke exposure or low folate intake during early pregnancy. In this paper, we introduce our recent progress in the Hokkaido study with a cohort profile updated in 2013. For the last ten years, we followed pregnant women and their offspring, measuring various environmental chemicals, i.e., PCB, OH-PCB and dioxins, PFCs (Perfluorinated Compounds), Organochlorine pesticides, Phthalates, bisphenol A and mercury. We discovered that the concentration of toxic equivalents (TEQ) of dioxin and other specific congeners of PCDF or PCDD have effects on birth weight, infants' neurodevelopment and immune function. There were significant gender differences in these effects; our results suggest that male infants have more susceptibility to those chemical exposures than female infants. Interestingly, we found maternal genetic polymorphisms in AHR, CYP1A1 or GSTs that significantly modified the dioxin concentrations in maternal blood, suggesting different dioxin accumulations in the bodies of individuals with these genotypes, which would lead to different dioxin exposure levels. These genetic susceptibility factors influenced the body size of children born from mothers that either smoked or were passively exposed to tobacco smoke. Further studies investigating the correlation between epigenetics, the effects of intrauterine exposure to environmental chemicals and developmental factors related to health and disease are warranted.
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Frawley R, DeVito M, Walker NJ, Birnbaum L, White K, Smith M, Maynor T, Recio L, Germolec D. Relative potency for altered humoral immunity induced by polybrominated and polychlorinated dioxins/furans in female B6C3F1/N mice. Toxicol Sci 2014; 139:488-500. [PMID: 24713691 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfu041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of brominated flame retardants and incineration of bromine-containing materials has lead to an increase in polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PBDD/Fs) in the environment. Measurable amounts of PBDD/Fs have been detected in soil, seafood, and human breast milk and serum. Studies indicate that the relative potencies of some PBDD/Fs based on enzyme induction are equivalent to those of some polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans. To assess the humoral immunity relative potencies of PBDD/Fs and compare them to their chlorinated analogs, female B6C3F1/N mice received a single oral exposure to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), 2,3,7,8-tetrabromodibenzofuran (TBDF), 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzofuran (TCDF), 1,2,3,7,8-pentabromodibenzofuran (1PeBDF), 1,2,3,7,8-pentachlorodibenzofuran (1PeCDF), 2,3,4,7,8-pentabromodibenzofuran (4PeBDF), 2,3,4,7,8-pentachlorodibenzofuran (4PeCDF), 2,3-dibromo-7,8-dichlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (DBDCDD), or 2,3,7-tribromodibenzo-p-dioxin (TriBDD). Inhibition of the immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibody forming cell response was measured 4 days following immunization with sheep red blood cells. The data were fit to a Hill model to estimate the ED50 for inhibition. Expression of xenobiotic metabolizing enzyme (XME) and thyroxine transport protein (Ttr) genes in liver was measured by PCR to assess aryl hydrocarbon-mediated responses. TCDD, TBDF, TCDF, 1PeBDF, 4PeBDF, 4PeCDF, and DBDCDD suppressed the IgM antibody response and Ttr gene expression, and upregulated phase I XME genes. 1PeCDF suppressed the IgM antibody response but only upregulated phase I XME genes; TriBDD had no effect on antibody response. The rank order of potency (ED50) for these chemicals was TCDD>TBDF>4PeBDF>TCDF/4PeCDF/1PeBDF>1PeCDF. Whereas TCDD was the most potent compound tested, the brominated analogs were more potent than their chlorinated analogs, suggesting that these compounds should be considered in toxic equivalency factor evaluation and risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Frawley
- Division of the National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
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38
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Predominant role of cytosolic phospholipase A2α in dioxin-induced neonatal hydronephrosis in mice. Sci Rep 2014; 4:4042. [PMID: 24509627 PMCID: PMC3918923 DOI: 10.1038/srep04042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2013] [Accepted: 01/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hydronephrosis is a common disease characterized by dilation of the renal pelvis and calices, resulting in loss of kidney function in the most severe cases. 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) induces nonobstructive hydronephrosis in mouse neonates through upregulation of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) synthesis pathway consisting of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1 (mPGES-1) by a yet unknown mechanism. We here studied possible involvement of cytosolic phospholipase A2α (cPLA2α) in this mechanism. To this end, we used a cPLA2α-null mouse model and found that cPLA2α has a significant role in the upregulation of the PGE2 synthesis pathway through a noncanonical pathway of aryl hydrocarbon receptor. This study is the first to demonstrate the predominant role of cPLA2α in hydronephrosis. Elucidation of the pathway leading to the onset of hydronephrosis using the TCDD-exposed mouse model will deepen our understanding of the molecular basis of nonobstructive hydronephrosis in humans.
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Duarte FV, Gomes AP, Teodoro JS, Varela AT, Moreno AJM, Rolo AP, Palmeira CM. Dibenzofuran-induced mitochondrial dysfunction: Interaction with ANT carrier. Toxicol In Vitro 2013; 27:2160-8. [PMID: 24008156 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2013.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2013] [Revised: 07/31/2013] [Accepted: 08/26/2013] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to environmental pollutants such as dibenzofurans and furans is linked to the pathophysiology of several diseases. Dibenzofuran (DBF) is listed as a pollutant of concern due to its persistence in the environment, bioaccumulation and toxicity to humans, being associated with the development of lung diseases and cancers, due to its extremely toxic properties such as carcinogenic and teratogenic. Mitochondria play a key role in cellular homeostasis and keeping a proper energy supply for eukaryotic cells is essential in the fulfillment of the tissues energy-demand. Therefore, interference with mitochondrial function leads to cell death and organ failure. In this work, the effects of DBF on isolated rat liver mitochondria were analyzed. DBF exposure caused a markedly increase in the lag phase that follows depolarization induced by ADP, indicating an effect in the phosphorylative system. This was associated with a dose-dependent decrease in ATPase activity. Moreover, DBF also increased the threshold to the induction of the mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) by calcium. Pretreatment of mitochondria with DBF also increased the concentration of carboxyatractyloside (CAT) necessary to abolish ADP phosphorylation and to induce the MPT, suggesting that DBF may interfere with mitochondria through an effect on the adenine nucleotide translocase (ANT). By co-immunoprecipitating ANT and Cyclophilin D (CypD) following MPT induction, we observed that in the presence of DBF, the ratio CypD/ANT was decreased. This demonstrates that DBF interferes with the ANT and so prevents CypD binding to the ANT, causing decreased phosphorylative capacity and inhibiting the MPT, which is also reflected by an increase in calcium retention capacity. Clarifying the role of pollutants in some mechanisms of toxicity, such as unbalance of bioenergetics status and mitochondrial function, may help to explain the progressive and chronic evolution of diseases derived from exposure to environmental pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- F V Duarte
- CNC - Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-517 Coimbra, Portugal; Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, Apartado 3046, 3001-401 Coimbra, Portugal.
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40
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Dietary exposure of juvenile female mice to polyhalogenated seafood contaminants (HBCD, BDE-47, PCB-153, TCDD): Comparative assessment of effects in potential target tissues. Food Chem Toxicol 2013; 56:443-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2013.02.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2012] [Revised: 02/21/2013] [Accepted: 02/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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41
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Wang BJ, Liao YF, Tung YT, Yih LH, Hu CC, Lee H. Establishment of a bioluminescence-based bioassay for the detection of dioxin-like compounds. Toxicol Mech Methods 2013. [DOI: 10.3109/15376516.2012.745105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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42
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Abstract
Over recent decades, epidemiological studies have been reporting worrisome trends in the incidence of human infertility rates. Extensive detection of industrial chemicals in human serum, seminal plasma and follicular fluid has led the scientific community to hypothesise that these compounds may disrupt hormonal homoeostasis, leading to a vast array of physiological impairments. Numerous synthetic and natural substances have endocrine-disruptive effects, acting through several mechanisms. The main route of exposure to these chemicals is the ingestion of contaminated food and water. They may disturb intrauterine development, resulting in irreversible effects and may also induce transgenerational effects. This review aims to summarise the major scientific developments on the topic of human infertility associated with exposure to endocrine disruptors (EDs), integrating epidemiological and experimental evidence. Current data suggest that environmental levels of EDs may affect the development and functioning of the reproductive system in both sexes, particularly in foetuses, causing developmental and reproductive disorders, including infertility. EDs may be blamed for the rising incidence of human reproductive disorders. This constitutes a serious public health issue that should not be overlooked. The exposure of pregnant women and infants to EDs is of great concern. Therefore, precautionary avoidance of exposure to EDs is a prudent attitude in order to protect humans and wildlife from permanent harmful effects on fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Marques-Pinto
- Serviço de EndocrinologiaFaculdade de Medicina da Universidade do PortoAl. Prof. Hernâni Monteiro4200-319, PortoPortugal
- Correspondence should be addressed to A Marques-Pinto
| | - Davide Carvalho
- Serviço de EndocrinologiaFaculdade de Medicina da Universidade do PortoAl. Prof. Hernâni Monteiro4200-319, PortoPortugal
- Departamento de Endocrinologia, Diabetes e MetabolismoCentro Hospitalar de São JoãoPortoPortugal
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Jönsson ME, Kubota A, Timme-Laragy AR, Woodin B, Stegeman JJ. Ahr2-dependence of PCB126 effects on the swim bladder in relation to expression of CYP1 and cox-2 genes in developing zebrafish. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2012; 265:166-74. [PMID: 23036320 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2012.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2012] [Revised: 09/18/2012] [Accepted: 09/26/2012] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The teleost swim bladder is assumed a homolog of the tetrapod lung. Both swim bladder and lung are developmental targets of persistent aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR(2)) agonists; in zebrafish (Danio rerio) the swim bladder fails to inflate with exposure to 3,3',4,4',5-pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB126). The mechanism for this effect is unknown, but studies have suggested roles of cytochrome P450 1 (CYP1) and cyclooxygenase 2 (Cox-2) in some Ahr-mediated developmental effects in zebrafish. We determined relationships between swim bladder inflation and CYP1 and Cox-2 mRNA expression in PCB126-exposed zebrafish embryos. We also examined effects on β-catenin dependent transcription, histological effects, and Ahr2 dependence of the effect of PCB126 on swim bladder using morpholinos targeting ahr2. One-day-old embryos were exposed to waterborne PCB126 or carrier (DMSO) for 24h and then held in clean water until day 4, a normal time for swim bladder inflation. The effects of PCB126 were concentration-dependent with EC(50) values of 1.4 to 2.0 nM for induction of the CYP1s, 3.7 and 5.1 nM (or higher) for cox-2a and cox-2b induction, and 2.5 nM for inhibition of swim bladder inflation. Histological defects included a compaction of the developing bladder. Ahr2-morpholino treatment rescued the effect of PCB126 (5 nM) on swim bladder inflation and blocked induction of CYP1A, cox-2a, and cox-2b. With 2nM PCB126 approximately 30% of eleutheroembryos(3) failed to inflate the swim bladder, but there was no difference in CYP1 or cox-2 mRNA expression between those embryos and embryos showing inflated swim bladder. Our results indicate that PCB126 blocks swim bladder inflation via an Ahr2-mediated mechanism. This mechanism seems independent of CYP1 or cox-2 mRNA induction but may involve abnormal development of swim bladder cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria E Jönsson
- Dept. of Environmental Toxicology, Evolutionary Biology, Centre, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18A, 752 36 Uppsala, Sweden.
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Chambers RC, Davis DD, Habeck EA, Roy NK, Wirgin I. Toxic effects of PCB126 and TCDD on shortnose sturgeon and Atlantic sturgeon. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2012; 31:2324-2337. [PMID: 22825886 PMCID: PMC4051353 DOI: 10.1002/etc.1953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2012] [Revised: 02/26/2012] [Accepted: 06/12/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to chemical contaminants is often invoked to explain recruitment failures to populations of sturgeon worldwide, but there is little empirical evidence to support the idea that young sturgeon are sensitive at environmentally relevant concentrations. The authors used shortnose sturgeon (Acipenser brevirostum) and Atlantic sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus) as models to investigate the sensitivities of sturgeon to early-life-stage toxicities from embryonic exposures to graded doses of polychlorinated biphenyl 126 (PCB126) and 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). Survival to hatching of shortnose sturgeon decreased with increasing dose, although the duration of the embryonic period was not significantly altered by exposure in either species. Morphometric features of larvae of both species were affected by dose, including shortening of the body, reduction in head size, reduction in quantity of yolk reserves, and reduction in eye size. Eye development in both species was delayed with increasing dose for both chemicals. The persistence of larvae in a food-free environment decreased inversely with dose in both species, with sharp declines occurring at PCB126 and TCDD doses of ≥1 ppb and ≥0.1 ppb, respectively. Dose-responsive early-life-stage toxicities reported here are among the more sensitive found in fish and occurred at burdens similar to those found in situ in a sympatric bottom-dwelling bony fish in the Hudson River Estuary. The present study is among the first demonstrating the sensitivity of any sturgeon to the hallmark early-life-stage toxicities induced by aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Christopher Chambers
- Howard Marine Sciences Laboratory, Northeast Fisheries Science Center, NOAA Fisheries Service, Highlands, New Jersey, USA
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45
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King-Heiden TC, Mehta V, Xiong KM, Lanham KA, Antkiewicz DS, Ganser A, Heideman W, Peterson RE. Reproductive and developmental toxicity of dioxin in fish. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2012; 354:121-38. [PMID: 21958697 PMCID: PMC3306500 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2011] [Revised: 09/12/2011] [Accepted: 09/13/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD or dioxin) is a global environmental contaminant and the prototypical ligand for investigating aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR)-mediated toxicity. Environmental exposure to TCDD results in developmental and reproductive toxicity in fish, birds and mammals. To resolve the ecotoxicological relevance and human health risks posed by exposure to dioxin-like AHR agonists, a vertebrate model is needed that allows for toxicity studies at various levels of biological organization, assesses adverse reproductive and developmental effects and establishes appropriate integrative correlations between different levels of effects. Here we describe the reproductive and developmental toxicity of TCDD in feral fish species and summarize how using the zebrafish model to investigate TCDD toxicity has enabled us to characterize the AHR signaling in fish and to better understand how dioxin-like chemicals induce toxicity. We propose that such studies can be used to predict the risks that AHR ligands pose to feral fish populations and provide a platform for integrating risk assessments for both ecologically relevant organisms and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tisha C. King-Heiden
- Department of Biology and River Studies Center, University of Wisconsin, La Crosse, WI
| | - Vatsal Mehta
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
| | - Kong M. Xiong
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
| | - Kevin A. Lanham
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
| | | | - Alissa Ganser
- Department of Biology and River Studies Center, University of Wisconsin, La Crosse, WI
| | - Warren Heideman
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Division, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
| | - Richard E. Peterson
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Division, School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
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Yoshioka W, Aida-Yasuoka K, Fujisawa N, Kawaguchi T, Ohsako S, Hara S, Uematsu S, Akira S, Tohyama C. Critical Role of Microsomal Prostaglandin E Synthase-1 in the Hydronephrosis Caused by Lactational Exposure to Dioxin in Mice. Toxicol Sci 2012; 127:547-54. [DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfs115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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47
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Blumberg B, Iguchi T, Odermatt A. Endocrine disrupting chemicals. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2011; 127:1-3. [PMID: 21839836 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2011.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2011] [Accepted: 07/28/2011] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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