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Soulen BK, Divine LM, Venables BJ, Roberts AP. Persistent organic pollutant exposure and associations with gene expression in northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus) from St. Paul Island, Alaska. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 182:105789. [PMID: 36332419 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2022.105789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are highly lipophilic compounds that accumulate at increased concentrations in high tropic level organisms like marine mammals. Marine mammals' reliance on blubber makes them susceptible to accumulating POPs at potentially toxic concentrations. In this study, we analyzed POP concentrations, (polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and methoxylated-BDE (MeOBDE), in the blubber of 16 subsistence harvested sub-adult, male northern fur seals as well as assessed changes in mRNA gene expression of nine relevant biomarkers including the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, thyroid receptor-α, and adiponectin. PBDE and MeOBDE concentrations were significantly lower than PCB and OCP concentrations. A negative relationship was observed between percent lipid in the blubber and contaminant concentrations, both individual and sum. Expression changes in eight biomarkers were correlated with individual and sum contaminant concentrations. This study shows that contaminant concentrations measured are correlated to changes in expression of genes from different physiological systems, metabolism and endocrine, that are important for the regulation of blubber metabolism. Northern fur seals are reliant on blubber as an energy source during times of low food intake. Potential contaminant induced changes in blubber metabolism pathways could have significant impacts on the health of individuals during critical periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianne K Soulen
- Department of Biological Sciences, Advanced Environmental Research Institute, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, 76201, USA.
| | - Lauren M Divine
- Aleut Community of St. Paul Island Ecosystem Conservation Office, St. Paul, Pribilof Islands, Alaska, USA
| | - Barney J Venables
- Department of Biological Sciences, Advanced Environmental Research Institute, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, 76201, USA
| | - Aaron P Roberts
- Department of Biological Sciences, Advanced Environmental Research Institute, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, 76201, USA
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2
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Puchades L, Gallego-Rios SE, Di Marzio A, Martínez-López E. Trace elements in blood of Baltic gray seal pups (Halichoerus grypus) from the Gulf of Riga and their relationship with biochemical and clinical parameters. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 182:113973. [PMID: 35908491 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Trace elements are pollutants of both natural and anthropogenic origin which can influence negatively on ecosystem and wildlife health. We evaluated trace element in blood samples of gray seal (Halichoerus grypus) stranded in the Gulf of Riga and their influence on their health status through hematological and biochemical profiles. Zn showed the highest levels followed by Cu > Se > Pb > THg > As. Cr and Cd were not detected. Most trace element levels were generally comparable to those reported in seal species; however, high Pb values were observed in those sample showing detectable concentrations (<0.046-257.6 μg/kg ww). Significant positive correlations were found between trace elements concentrations and various biochemical parameters, including Se-ASAT, Se:Hg-ASAT, Cu-TP, Cu-ALB, CuCa, Zn-ALAT, ZN-LDH, ZnP, Zn-Segment neutrophils, and Pb-CK. Nevertheless, most relationships were not strong enough (p > 0.04) to assume a toxicological implication. Despite its limitations, this information could serve as the baseline for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Puchades
- Area of Toxicology, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - S E Gallego-Rios
- Area of Toxicology, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; Pollution Diagnostics and Control Group (GDCON), School of the Environment, Faculty of Engineering, University Research Campus (SIU), University of Antioquia (U de A), Calle 70 No. 52-21, Medellin, Colombia
| | - A Di Marzio
- Area of Toxicology, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; Rigas Nacionalais Zoologiskais Darzs (Riga Zoo), Meza prospekts 1, LV-1014 Riga, Latvia
| | - E Martínez-López
- Area of Toxicology, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; Toxicology and Risk Assessment Group, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain.
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3
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Gismondi E, Daneels L, Damseaux F, Lehnert K, Siebert U, Das K. Preliminary study of oxidative stress biomarkers and trace elements in North Sea Harbour Seals. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 163:111905. [PMID: 33360729 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This preliminary study investigated the potential correlations between trace elements (mercury, zinc, cadmium, copper, selenium, lead, nickel, chromium, lithium and vanadium) concentrations, measured in red blood cells, and oxidative stress biomarkers (total thiols, total glutathione, total and selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidases, triglycerides, malondialdehyde) assessed in the respective serum, in males and females P. vitulina, sampled in the Wadden Sea in spring and autumn 2015. Only concentrations of total mercury and zinc showed significant differences by sex, and only lipid peroxidation was different by season. Moreover, significant positive and negative correlations were observed between biomarkers (triglycerides, thiols, malondialdehyde, glutathione) and trace element concentrations (copper, lead, mercury, nickel, zinc). These findings suggest that the studied biomarkers could be useful for the assessment of oxidative stress in harbour seals exposed to trace elements, but further research with larger sample sizes is needed to better understand their specific associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Gismondi
- Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Ecotoxicology (LEAE), Freshwater and Oceanic Sciences Unit of ReSearch (FOCUS), University of Liège B6c, 11 allée du 6 Août, 4000 Liège, Belgium.
| | - Lucienne Daneels
- Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Ecotoxicology (LEAE), Freshwater and Oceanic Sciences Unit of ReSearch (FOCUS), University of Liège B6c, 11 allée du 6 Août, 4000 Liège, Belgium; Laboratory of Oceanology, Freshwater and Oceanic Sciences Unit of ReSearch (FOCUS), University of Liège B6c, 11 Allée du 6 Août, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - France Damseaux
- Laboratory of Oceanology, Freshwater and Oceanic Sciences Unit of ReSearch (FOCUS), University of Liège B6c, 11 Allée du 6 Août, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Kristina Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - Krishna Das
- Laboratory of Oceanology, Freshwater and Oceanic Sciences Unit of ReSearch (FOCUS), University of Liège B6c, 11 Allée du 6 Août, 4000 Liège, Belgium
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Sonne C, Siebert U, Gonnsen K, Desforges JP, Eulaers I, Persson S, Roos A, Bäcklin BM, Kauhala K, Tange Olsen M, Harding KC, Treu G, Galatius A, Andersen-Ranberg E, Gross S, Lakemeyer J, Lehnert K, Lam SS, Peng W, Dietz R. Health effects from contaminant exposure in Baltic Sea birds and marine mammals: A review. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 139:105725. [PMID: 32311628 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2020] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Here we review contaminant exposure and related health effects in six selected Baltic key species. Sentinel species included are common eider, white-tailed eagle, harbour porpoise, harbour seal, ringed seal and grey seal. The review represents the first attempt of summarizing available information and baseline data for these biomonitoring key species exposed to industrial hazardous substances focusing on anthropogenic persistent organic pollutants (POPs). There was only limited information available for white-tailed eagles and common eider while extensive information exist on POP exposure and health effects in the four marine mammal species. Here we report organ-tissue endpoints (pathologies) and multiple biomarkers used to evaluate health and exposure of key species to POPs, respectively, over the past several decades during which episodes of significant population declines have been reported. Our review shows that POP exposure affects the reproductive system and survival through immune suppression and endocrine disruption, which have led to population-level effects on seals and white-tailed eagles in the Baltic. It is notable that many legacy contaminants, which have been banned for decades, still appear to affect Baltic wildlife. With respect to common eiders, changes in food composition, quality and contaminant exposure seem to have population effects which need to be investigated further, especially during the incubation period where the birds fast. Since new industrial contaminants continuously leak into the environment, we recommend continued monitoring of them in sentinel species in the Baltic, identifying possible effects linked to climate change, and modelling of population level effects of contaminants and climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Sonne
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark; Henan Province Engineering Research Center for Biomass Value-added Products, School of Forestry, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou CN-450002, China.
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany.
| | - Katharina Gonnsen
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany.
| | - Jean-Pierre Desforges
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Igor Eulaers
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Sara Persson
- Swedish Museum of Natural History, Department of Environmental Research and Monitoring, Frescativägen 40, SE-104 05 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Anna Roos
- Swedish Museum of Natural History, Department of Environmental Research and Monitoring, Frescativägen 40, SE-104 05 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Britt-Marie Bäcklin
- Swedish Museum of Natural History, Department of Environmental Research and Monitoring, Frescativägen 40, SE-104 05 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Kaarina Kauhala
- Natural Resources Institute Finland, Luke. Itäinen Pitkäkatu 4 A, FI-20520 Turku, Finland.
| | - Morten Tange Olsen
- Evolutionary Genomics, Natural History Museum of Denmark, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Øster Voldgade 5-7, DK-1350 Copenhagen K, Denmark.
| | - Karin C Harding
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Box 463, 25 SE-405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Gabriele Treu
- German Environment Agency, Section Chemicals, Wörlitzer Platz 1, 06844 Dessau-Roßlau, Germany.
| | - Anders Galatius
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Emilie Andersen-Ranberg
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health, Dyrlægevej 16, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
| | - Stephanie Gross
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany.
| | - Jan Lakemeyer
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany.
| | - Kristina Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany.
| | - Su Shiung Lam
- Henan Province Engineering Research Center for Biomass Value-added Products, School of Forestry, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou CN-450002, China; Pyrolysis Technology Research Group, Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries (Akuatrop) & Institute of Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development (Bio-D Tropika), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, MY-21030 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia.
| | - Wanxi Peng
- Henan Province Engineering Research Center for Biomass Value-added Products, School of Forestry, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou CN-450002, China
| | - Rune Dietz
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
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Lehnert K, Siebert U, Reißmann K, Bruhn R, McLachlan MS, Müller G, van Elk CE, Ciurkiewicz M, Baumgärtner W, Beineke A. Cytokine expression and lymphocyte proliferative capacity in diseased harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) - Biomarkers for health assessment in wildlife cetaceans. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 247:783-791. [PMID: 30721869 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.01.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) in the North and Baltic Seas are exposed to anthropogenic influences including acoustic stress and environmental contaminants. In order to evaluate immune responses in healthy and diseased harbor porpoise cells, cytokine expression analyses and lymphocyte proliferation assays, together with toxicological analyses were performed in stranded and bycaught animals as well as in animals kept in permanent human care. Severely diseased harbor porpoises showed a reduced proliferative capacity of peripheral blood lymphocytes together with diminished transcription of transforming growth factor-β and tumor necrosis factor-α compared to healthy controls. Toxicological analyses revealed accumulation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) in harbor porpoise blood samples. Correlation analyses between blood organochlorine levels and immune parameters revealed no direct effects of xenobiotics upon lymphocyte proliferation or cytokine transcription, respectively. Results reveal an impaired function of peripheral blood leukocytes in severely diseased harbor porpoises, indicating immune exhaustion and increased disease susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Büsum, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Büsum, Germany
| | | | | | - Michael S McLachlan
- Baltic Sea Research Institute, Rostock, Germany; Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | | | | | - Wolfgang Baumgärtner
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Andreas Beineke
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany.
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6
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Soulen BK, Venables BJ, Johnston DW, Roberts AP. Accumulation of PBDEs in stranded harp (Pagophilus groenlandicus) and hooded seals (Cystophora cristata) from the Northeastern United States. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2018; 138:96-101. [PMID: 29706368 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2018.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are highly lipophilic components of brominated flame retardants that are environmentally persistent and bioaccumulate. PBDEs are taken up from the gastrointestinal tract and accumulate mainly in fat depots and liver tissues. Seal species inhabiting Arctic and sub-Arctic regions can have upwards of 30% of their body mass composed of blubber. When those blubber stores are mobilized for energy, stored toxicants are also released into circulation. Most studies reporting accumulation of PBDEs in seals have focused on harbor and grey seals with few examining harp and hooded seals. In this study, PBDEs concentrations were analyzed in seal blubber from 21 stranded harp and 9 stranded hooded seals sampled along the northeast coast of the U.S. (1999-2010). A PBDE congener profile was determined for each individual. The results show that both species of seals are accumulating PBDEs with BDE-47 being the dominant congener. Mean ƩPBDE concentrations in harp seals were 70.55 ± 33.59 ng/g ww and for hooded seals 94.28 ± 42.65 ng/g ww. The results of this study are consistent with previous studies reporting a decrease in bioaccumulation with an increase in bromination. For both species, BDE-47 represented the highest percentage of the ƩPBDEs, composing over 50% of the ƩPBDEs in harp seals. When compared to stranding condition code, animals found alive had overall higher PBDE concentrations than those found in a state of moderate decomposition. This difference could be due to decreased blubber levels in the decomposed animals or potential degradation of the compounds in the blubber. Almost all seals used in this study were yearlings which is the most likely age class to strand. Yearling seals are at a crucial stage of development, especially of their immune system, which can be impacted by high levels of contaminants like PBDEs and increase the susceptibility to disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianne K Soulen
- Dep. of Biological Sciences, Advanced Environmental Research Institute, University of North Texas, Denton, TX 76201, USA.
| | - Barney J Venables
- Dep. of Biological Sciences, Advanced Environmental Research Institute, University of North Texas, Denton, TX 76201, USA
| | - David W Johnston
- Duke University Marine Laboratory, Division of Marine Science and Conservation, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Beaufort, NC, USA
| | - Aaron P Roberts
- Dep. of Biological Sciences, Advanced Environmental Research Institute, University of North Texas, Denton, TX 76201, USA
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Lehnert K, Weirup L, Harding KC, Härkönen T, Karlsson O, Teilmann J. Antarctic seals: Molecular biomarkers as indicators for pollutant exposure, health effects and diet. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 599-600:1693-1704. [PMID: 28535598 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.04.224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/28/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Weddell (Leptonychotes weddellii), Ross (Ommatophoca rossii) and crabeater seals (Lobodon carcinophaga) are phocid seals with a circumpolar distribution around Antarctica. As long-lived and large top predators, they bioaccumulate contaminants and are considered as sentinels of ecosystem health. Antarctic seals are increasingly exposed to climate change, pollution, shipping and fisheries. To reveal and understand possible anthropogenic impacts on their immune and health status, this study investigates sensitive biomarkers of the xenobiotic metabolism and immune system in relation to mercury (Hg) burden. Gene-transcription studies using minimally-invasive blood samples are useful to monitor physiological processes in wildlife that can be related to different stressors. Blood samples of 72 wild-caught seals (Weddell n=33; Ross n=12; crabeater n=27) in the Amundsen and Ross Seas in 2008-2011 were investigated. Copy numbers per μl mRNA transcription of xenobiotic biomarkers (aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR)), aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator (ARNT) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPARα) and immune relevant cell mediators (cytokines interleukin-2 (IL-2), interleukin-10 (IL-10) and heat-shock-protein 70 (HSP70)) were measured using reference genes Tyrosine 3-monooxygenase/tryptophan 5-monooxygenase activation protein, zeta polypeptide (YWHAZ) and ribosomal protein L4 (RPL4) by real time RT-qPCR. Hg concentration was analysed in fur. Hg concentration increased with body weight and standard length in all species. Crabeater seals showed a lower Hg concentration than Ross and Weddell seals. Species-specific differences in gene-transcription were found between all species with highest levels of AHR, ARNT and PPARα in crabeater seals. Ross seals showed highest IL-10 and HSP70 transcription, while HSP70 was exceptionally low in crabeater seals. Between Hg and HSP70 a clear negative relationship was found in all species. The species-specific, age and sex-dependent gene-transcription probably reflect dietary habits, pollutant exposure and immune status.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 25761 Büsum, Germany.
| | - L Weirup
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - K C Harding
- University of Gothenburg, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Box 463, SE-405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - T Härkönen
- Swedish Museum of Natural History, Department of Environmental Research and Monitoring, P.O. Box 50007, 104 05 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - O Karlsson
- Swedish Museum of Natural History, Department of Environmental Research and Monitoring, P.O. Box 50007, 104 05 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - J Teilmann
- Aarhus University, Department of Bioscience, Frederiksborgvej 399, P.O. Box 358, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
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Kleinert C, Blanchet M, Gagné F, Fournier M. Dose-response relationships in gene expression profiles in a harbor seal B lymphoma cell line exposed to 17 -ethinyl estradiol. J Xenobiot 2017; 7:6702. [PMID: 30701058 PMCID: PMC6324477 DOI: 10.4081/xeno.2017.6702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2017] [Revised: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 04/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - François Gagné
- Saint-Laurent Centre, Environment Canada, Montreal (QC), Canada
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Puryear WB, Keogh M, Hill N, Moxley J, Josephson E, Davis KR, Bandoro C, Lidgard D, Bogomolni A, Levin M, Lang S, Hammill M, Bowen D, Johnston DW, Romano T, Waring G, Runstadler J. Prevalence of influenza A virus in live-captured North Atlantic gray seals: a possible wild reservoir. Emerg Microbes Infect 2016; 5:e81. [PMID: 27485496 PMCID: PMC5034098 DOI: 10.1038/emi.2016.77] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Revised: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Influenza A virus (IAV) has been associated with multiple unusual mortality events (UMEs) in North Atlantic pinnipeds, frequently attributed to spillover of virus from wild-bird reservoirs. To determine if endemic infection persists outside of UMEs, we undertook a multiyear investigation of IAV in healthy, live-captured Northwest Atlantic gray seals (Halichoerus grypus). From 2013 to 2015, we sampled 345 pups and 57 adults from Cape Cod, MA, USA and Nova Scotia, Canada consistently detecting IAV infection across all groups. There was an overall viral prevalence of 9.0% (95% confidence interval (CI): 6.4%-12.5%) in weaned pups and 5.3% (CI: 1.2%-14.6%) in adults, with seroprevalences of 19.3% (CI: 15.0%-24.5%) and 50% (CI: 33.7%-66.4%), respectively. Positive sera showed a broad reactivity to diverse influenza subtypes. IAV status did not correlate with measures of animal health nor impact animal movement or foraging. This study demonstrated that Northwest Atlantic gray seals are both permissive to and tolerant of diverse IAV, possibly representing an endemically infected wild reservoir population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nichola Hill
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth Josephson
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Northeast Fisheries Science Center, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA
| | | | | | - Damian Lidgard
- Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 1C2
| | | | - Milton Levin
- University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06268, USA
| | - Shelley Lang
- Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada B2Y 4A2
| | - Michael Hammill
- Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada B2Y 4A2
| | - Don Bowen
- Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada B2Y 4A2
| | | | | | - Gordon Waring
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Northeast Fisheries Science Center, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA
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Xia B, Chen K, Lv Y, Huang D, Liu J, Liang G, Zhang L, Wang F, Su C, Zou Y, Yang X. Increased oxidative stress and plasma Hsp70 levels among gasoline filling station attendants. Toxicol Ind Health 2016; 33:171-181. [PMID: 26792678 DOI: 10.1177/0748233715616554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT) is an organic derivative of manganese (Mn) and is used as an antiknock agent and octane enhancer in gasoline. In this article, we tested the oxidative stress and heat stress protein (Hsp) 70 levels of gasoline station attendants to explore potential plasma biomarkers. Furthermore, the dose-response relationship was also identified. METHODS A total of 144 workers, including 96 petrol fillers and 48 cashiers, participated in the study. Ambient concentrations of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) and Mn were monitored at nine filling stations. During the measuring process, the individual cumulative exposure index was calculated. Plasma oxidative stress and Hsp70 levels were also analysed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS The BTEX time-weighted average in office areas was significantly lower than in refuelling areas ( p < 0.05). In refuelling areas, the content of Mn ranged from 6.44 μg/m3 to 127.34 μg/m3, which was much higher than that in office areas (3.16-7.22 μg/m3; p < 0.05). Exposed workers had significantly different plasma oxidative stress indicators compared with the control group, respectively: superoxide dismutase (SOD), 39.18 ± 6.05 U/mL versus 52.84 ± 3.87 U/mL; glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), 186.07 ± 15.63 U versus 194.38 ± 10.42 U; and malondialdehyde (MDA), 1.68 ± 0.52 nmol/L versus 1.43 ± 0.64 nmol/L (in all comparisons, p < 0.05). Plasma Hsp70 level in the exposed group (2.77 ± 0.64 ng/mL) was significantly higher than in the control group (2.32 ± 0.87 ng/mL; p < 0.05). Furthermore, Hsp70 levels were inversely correlated with the activities of SOD ( r = -0.305) and GSH-Px ( r = -0.302) in the exposed group ( p < 0.05). Moreover, a positive correlation ( r = 0.653) was found between plasma Hsp70 levels and plasma MDA levels ( p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Exposure to MMT-containing gasoline may result in increasing reactive oxygen stress among filling station attendants. Plasma Hsp70 levels could be used as a sensitive responsive biomarker for exposed workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Xia
- 1 Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Kangcheng Chen
- 1 Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yingnan Lv
- 1 Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Damin Huang
- 1 Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Jing Liu
- 1 Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Guiqiang Liang
- 2 Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Li'e Zhang
- 2 Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Fenfen Wang
- 1 Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Cheng Su
- 1 Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yunfeng Zou
- 2 Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Xiaobo Yang
- 1 Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China.,3 Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
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11
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Lehnert K, Ronnenberg K, Weijs L, Covaci A, Das K, Hellwig V, Siebert U. Xenobiotic and Immune-Relevant Molecular Biomarkers in Harbor Seals as Proxies for Pollutant Burden and Effects. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2016; 70:106-120. [PMID: 26296438 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-015-0202-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Harbor seals are exposed to increasing pressure caused by anthropogenic activities in their marine environment. Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and trace elements are hazardous contaminants that accumulate in tissues of harbor seals. POPs and trace elements can negatively affect the immune-system and have been reported, e.g., to increase susceptibility to viral infections in seals. Biomarkers of the xenobiotic metabolism, cytokines, and heat-shock protein as cell mediators of the immune-system were established to evaluate the impact of environmental stressors on harbor seals. Harbor seals (n = 54) were captured on sandbanks in the North Sea during 2009-2012. Health assessments, including hematology, were performed, and RNAlater blood samples were taken and analyzed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Normalized transcript copy numbers were correlated to hematology and POP concentration in blood and trace metals in blood and fur. A significant correlation between xenobiotic markers and contaminant burden was found. Significant interrelationships between markers and POP compounds, as well as with season, weight, and hematology values, indicate that biomarkers reflect pollutant exposure and effects. A significant relationship between cortisol levels and heat-shock protein expression was observed indicating stress experienced during restraint of the seals. Interleukin-10 transcription showed significant correlations with trace elements in fur pointing toward immune regulatory effects of metal exposure. The molecular markers prove to be an important noninvasive tool that reflects contaminant exposure and the impact of anthropogenic stressors in seal species. The connection between interleukin-2, xenobiotic markers, and pollutants may indicate immune suppression in animals exposed to contaminants with subsequent susceptibility to inflammatory disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Lehnert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761, Büsum, Germany.
- Institute for Coastal Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht Centre for Materials and Coastal Research, 21502, Geesthacht, Germany.
| | - Katrin Ronnenberg
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761, Büsum, Germany
| | - Liesbeth Weijs
- Toxicological Center, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium
- National Research Centre for Environmental Toxicology (ENTOX), The University of Queensland, 39 Kessels Road, Coopers Plains, QLD, 4108, Australia
| | - Adrian Covaci
- Toxicological Center, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Krishna Das
- Laboratory of Oceanology-MARE Centre, University of Liege, 4000, Liege, Belgium
| | - Veronika Hellwig
- Institute for Coastal Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht Centre for Materials and Coastal Research, 21502, Geesthacht, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, 25761, Büsum, Germany
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12
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Desforges JPW, Sonne C, Levin M, Siebert U, De Guise S, Dietz R. Immunotoxic effects of environmental pollutants in marine mammals. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2016; 86:126-139. [PMID: 26590481 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2015.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 213] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2015] [Revised: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Due to their marine ecology and life-history, marine mammals accumulate some of the highest levels of environmental contaminants of all wildlife. Given the increasing prevalence and severity of diseases in marine wildlife, it is imperative to understand how pollutants affect the immune system and consequently disease susceptibility. Advancements and adaptations of analytical techniques have facilitated marine mammal immunotoxicology research. Field studies, captive-feeding experiments and in vitro laboratory studies with marine mammals have associated exposure to environmental pollutants, most notable polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides and heavy metals, to alterations of both the innate and adaptive arms of immune systems, which include aspects of cellular and humoral immunity. For marine mammals, reported immunotoxicology endpoints fell into several major categories: immune tissue histopathology, haematology/circulating immune cell populations, functional immune assays (lymphocyte proliferation, phagocytosis, respiratory burst, and natural killer cell activity), immunoglobulin production, and cytokine gene expression. Lymphocyte proliferation is by far the most commonly used immune assay, with studies using different organic pollutants and metals predominantly reporting immunosuppressive effects despite the many differences in study design and animal life history. Using combined field and laboratory data, we determined effect threshold levels for suppression of lymphocyte proliferation to be between b0.001-10 ppm for PCBs, 0.002-1.3 ppm for Hg, 0.009-0.06 for MeHg, and 0.1-2.4 for cadmium in polar bears and several pinniped and cetacean species. Similarly, thresholds for suppression of phagocytosis were 0.6-1.4 and 0.08-1.9 ppm for PCBs and mercury, respectively. Although data are lacking for many important immune endpoints and mechanisms of specific immune alterations are not well understood, this review revealed a systemic suppression of immune function in marine mammals exposed to environmental contaminants. Exposure to immunotoxic contaminants may have significant population level consequences as a contributing factor to increasing anthropogenic stress in wildlife and infectious disease outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Pierre W Desforges
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Christian Sonne
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Milton Levin
- Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, University of Connecticut, 61 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, CT 06269-3089, United States
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstrasse 6, 25761 Buesum, Germany
| | - Sylvain De Guise
- Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, University of Connecticut, 61 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, CT 06269-3089, United States
| | - Rune Dietz
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
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13
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Spitz J, Becquet V, Rosen DAS, Trites AW. A nutrigenomic approach to detect nutritional stress from gene expression in blood samples drawn from Steller sea lions. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2015; 187:214-23. [PMID: 25700740 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2015.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2014] [Revised: 02/04/2015] [Accepted: 02/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Gene expression profiles are increasingly being used as biomarkers to detect the physiological responses of a number of species to disease, nutrition, and other stressors. However, little attention has been given to using gene expression to assess the stressors and physiological status of marine mammals. We sought to develop and validate a nutrigenomic approach to quantify nutritional stress in Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus). We subjected 4 female Steller sea lions to 3 feeding regimes over 70-day trials (unrestricted food intake, acute nutritional stress, and chronic nutritional stress), and drew blood samples from each animal at the end of each feeding regime. We then extracted the RNA of white blood cells and measured the response of 8 genes known to react to diet restriction in terrestrial mammals. Overall, we found that the genomic response of Steller sea lions experiencing nutritional stress was consistent with how terrestrial mammals respond to dietary restrictions. Our nutritionally stressed sea lions down-regulated some cellular processes involved in immune response and oxidative stress, and up-regulated pro-inflammatory responses and metabolic processes. Nutrigenomics appears to be a promising means to monitor nutritional status and contribute to mitigation measures needed to assist in the recovery of Steller sea lions and other at-risk species of marine mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérôme Spitz
- Marine Mammal Research Unit, Fisheries Centre, University of British Columbia, 2202 Main Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada.
| | - Vanessa Becquet
- Littoral Environnement et Sociétés, UMR 7266 Université de La Rochelle/CNRS, 2 rue Olympe de Gouges, 17042 La Rochelle, Cedex, France
| | - David A S Rosen
- Marine Mammal Research Unit, Fisheries Centre, University of British Columbia, 2202 Main Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Andrew W Trites
- Marine Mammal Research Unit, Fisheries Centre, University of British Columbia, 2202 Main Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4, Canada
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