1
|
Bielmyer-Fraser GK, Courville JM, Ward A, Hardie MM. Mercury and Selenium Accumulation in the Tissues of Stranded Bottlenose Dolphins ( Tursiops truncatus) in Northeast Florida, 2013-2021. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1571. [PMID: 38891616 PMCID: PMC11171161 DOI: 10.3390/ani14111571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) are long-lived marine mammals, upper-level predators, and they inhabit near-shore environments, which increases their exposure to pollution. Mercury is a ubiquitous and persistent metal pollutant that can bioaccumulate and biomagnify up the food chain. Dolphins are known to accumulate mercury, and limited research has shown that mercury exposure can weaken the immune system of dolphins. The objectives of this study were to assess the mercury concentrations in the tissues (muscle, small intestine, liver) of stranded bottlenose dolphins and to compare the tissue mercury levels in dolphins that were stranded during the 2013-2015 morbillivirus Unusual Mortality Event (UME; immunosuppressed individuals) with the levels of those that were stranded at a normal rate (2016-2021). Selenium has been shown to reduce mercury toxicity in many animals; therefore, tissue selenium concentration and the molar ratio of selenium to mercury were also assessed. The tissue mercury (muscle, liver) and selenium (liver) concentrations increased with the age of the dolphins, with the liver accumulating the highest concentrations. No sex differences were observed in the mercury and selenium concentrations. While differences in tissue mercury concentrations were not observed due to the UME, the selenium accumulation profiles were significantly different between the two time periods. These results suggest that selenium may not have been as protective against mercury toxicity in the bottlenose dolphins that were stranded during the UME, possibly due to infection with morbillivirus.
Collapse
|
2
|
Fernández-Robledo A, Lares ML, Schramm-Urrutia Y. Trace metal concentrations in California sea lions from rookeries exposed to different levels of coastal urbanization in Baja California, Mexico. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 184:114163. [PMID: 36182783 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Concentrations of total mercury, total selenium, and cadmium ([THg], [TSe], [Cd]) were determined in hair of California sea lion (Zalophus californianus) pups from four islands of the Gulf of California and the Baja California Pacific coast (NG, CG, NP, and CP) to identify geographical differences and the effect of Se against Hg toxicity (TSe:THg molar ratio). THg displayed a strong north-south trend for both ecoregions, while TSe presented a significantly high concentration only for CG. TSe:THg molar ratios decreased when [THg] increased, with the lowest ratios presenting in NG pups, in which [THg] exceeded toxicological thresholds of concern. [Cd] presented similar values at all study sites except CG, which presented the lowest level. The present study shows that proximity to urbanized coastal areas has a strong influence on [THg] in pups, while [TSe] and [Cd] are probably more related to the physiological requirements of the species, and environmental conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Fernández-Robledo
- Departamento de Oceanografía Biológica, Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada, Km. 107 Carretera Tijuana-Ensenada, Ensenada 22860, Baja California, Mexico
| | - M L Lares
- Departamento de Oceanografía Biológica, Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada, Km. 107 Carretera Tijuana-Ensenada, Ensenada 22860, Baja California, Mexico.
| | - Y Schramm-Urrutia
- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Facultad de Ciencias Marinas, Carretera Transpeninsular Ensenada-Tijuana No. 3917, Fraccionamiento Playitas, 22860 Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Toxic and essential trace element concentrations in Pacific walrus (Odobenus rosmarus divergens) skeletal muscle varies by location and reproductive status. Polar Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s00300-022-03069-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
|
4
|
Castellini JM, Rea LD, Avery JP, O’Hara TM. Total Mercury, Total Selenium, and Monomethylmercury Relationships in Multiple Age Cohorts and Tissues of Steller Sea Lions (Eumetopias jubatus). ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2022; 41:1477-1489. [PMID: 35274766 PMCID: PMC9433051 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus) tissue mercury concentrations increasingly above thresholds of concern occur in regions of Alaska where lack of population recovery is noted. Selenium-monomethylmercury interactions may mitigate toxicosis but may also result in functional selenium deficiency, impacting essential selenium-dependent processes. Physiologically driven differences in tissue concentrations (organotropism) of total mercury ([THg]), total selenium ([TSe]), and monomethylmercury ([MeHg+ ]) confound interpretation for various age cohorts. Archived tissues from Alaska Steller sea lions (2002-2016) were used to compare [THg], [MeHg+ ], and [TSe] across age cohorts and tissue types. Liver [THg] ranged from 0.05 to 63.7 µg/g. Fetal and pup livers had significantly lower [THg] and [TSe], higher percentage MeHg+ , and greater range of molar TSe:THg than subadult and adult livers. Molar Se:MeHg+ ratios, including Se in excess of nonmethylmercury, were dependent on [MeHg+ ] in fetuses and pups. While [THg] varied significantly by muscle type (heart vs. skeletal) and anatomical location, concentrations were strongly correlated. Biomagnification and/or bioaccumulation of THg in liver of older animals confounded comparison with other tissues; however, in fetal and pup liver [THg] correlated with other tissues. In contrast, liver [MeHg+ ] correlated with other tissues across all age classes. Fetal and pup tissues, which reflect in utero exposure and are subject to limited bioaccumulation, are ideal for assessing mercury exposure related to dam diet, including intertissue comparison, and represent key cohorts of concern. Evaluating [MeHg+ ] and [TSe] in tissues from multiple age cohorts allows better intertissue comparison, providing insight into time courses, routes of exposure, and potential for adverse effects. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:1477-1489. © 2022 SETAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J. Margaret Castellini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
| | - Lorrie D. Rea
- Water and Environmental Research Center, Institute of Northern Engineering, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
| | - Julie P. Avery
- Water and Environmental Research Center, Institute of Northern Engineering, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
| | - Todd M. O’Hara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
- Water and Environmental Research Center, Institute of Northern Engineering, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
- Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Schnitzler JG, Das K, Wohlsein P, Kuiken T, Ludwig A, Lieckfeldt D, Phan C, Phay S, Siebert U. The Irrawaddy dolphin, Orcaella brevirostris from the Mekong river Cambodia: Preliminary health and toxicological investigations. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2021; 234:105812. [PMID: 33799112 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2021.105812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The subpopulation of the Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris) living in the Mekong River, Cambodia, is considered to be critically endangered. The aim of the investigation was to gain information about the genetic variation, health status and exposure to toxic compounds of these dolphins. Tissue samples from 27 Irrawaddy river dolphins found dead along the Mekong River between 2004 and 2009 were analysed with regards to genetics, pathology and ecotoxicology. Genetic maternal lineage detection, based on polymorphisms of the mitochondrial d-loop sequences, was performed. Data indicate a genetic separation of the Mekong dolphins from both the coastal population and the Mahakam dolphins. Pathological investigations revealed acute moderate multifocal suppurative bronchopneumonia, moderate periportal hepatic lipidosis, moderate diffuse hepatic atrophy and acute severe diffuse suppurative leptomeningitis. Residue levels of organochlorines and polybrominated diphenyl ethers in Irrawaddy dolphins from the Mekong River were lower than the concentrations reported for other cetaceans in the coastal and riverine waters of Asia, except for Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane. A high percentage of organic mercury compared to the immuno-toxic methylmercury was observed. Due to numerous confounding factors, it is not possible to relate levels of pollutants to observed morphological lesions. However, it is likely that chemical contaminants do adversely impact on the health of the Irrawaddy dolphins at present, and have also affected previous generations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph G Schnitzler
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany.
| | - Krishna Das
- Freshwater and Oceanic Sciences Unit of research (FOCUS-Oceanology), University of Liege, Belgium
| | - Peter Wohlsein
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Thijs Kuiken
- Department of Virology, Erasmus MC, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Arne Ludwig
- Leibniz-Institut für Zoo- und Wildtierforschung (IZW), Alfred-Kowalke-Straße 17, 10315 Berlin, Germany
| | - Dietmar Lieckfeldt
- Leibniz-Institut für Zoo- und Wildtierforschung (IZW), Alfred-Kowalke-Straße 17, 10315 Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Werftstr. 6, 25761 Büsum, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Spiller HA, Hays HL, Casavant MJ. Rethinking treatment of mercury poisoning: the roles of selenium, acetylcysteine, and thiol chelators in the treatment of mercury poisoning: a narrative review. TOXICOLOGY COMMUNICATIONS 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/24734306.2020.1870077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Henry A. Spiller
- Central Ohio Poison Center, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Hannah L. Hays
- Central Ohio Poison Center, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Departments of Emergency Medicine and Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Marcel J. Casavant
- Central Ohio Poison Center, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Shi C, Yue F, Shi F, Qin Q, Wang L, Wang G, Mu L, Liu D, Li Y, Yu T, She J. Selenium-Containing Amino Acids Protect Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis via Ameliorating Oxidative Stress and Intestinal Inflammation. J Inflamm Res 2021; 14:85-95. [PMID: 33488110 PMCID: PMC7814278 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s288412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by chronic relapsing inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of IBD. Selenium-containing amino acids reportedly have anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, but it remains unknown if selenium-containing amino acids can be used to treat IBD. This study aimed to investigate the effects of two selenium-containing amino acids - selenocysteine and selenocystine - on oxidative stress and chronic inflammation in a mouse model of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced IBD. Methodology C57BL/6 mice were randomly assigned to the following six groups: control, DSS, DSS+selenocysteine, DSS+selenocystine, DSS+sodium selenite, and DSS+N-acetylcysteine (NAC). IBD was induced by 3% DSS. Pro-inflammatory cytokines [interleukin-1β (IL-1β), monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1), IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)] and markers for oxidative and anti-oxidative stress [malondialdehyde (MDA), reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)] were measured using immunohistochemical analysis. Results Selenocysteine and selenocystine significantly attenuated IBD-related symptoms, including preventing weight loss, decreasing disease activity index (DAI) scores, and increasing colon length. Selenocysteine and selenocystine significantly ameliorated the DSS-induced oxidative stress, as demonstrated by a reduction in ROS and MDA activity and an increase in SOD and GPx activity. IL-1, MCP-1, IL-6, and TNF-α levels were significantly increased in the IBD mice, while treatment with the selenium-containing amino acids significantly reduced the levels of these pro-inflammatory cytokines. In vivo safety analysis showed minimal side effects of the selenium-containing amino acids. Conclusion We found that selenocysteine and selenocystine ameliorated DSS-induced IBD via reducing oxidative stress and intestinal inflammation, indicating that selenium-containing amino acids could be a novel therapeutic option for patients with IBD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chengxin Shi
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Fengli Yue
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, People's Republic of China
| | - Feiyu Shi
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Qin
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Lizhao Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Guanghui Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Lijun Mu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaguang Li
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianyu Yu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, People's Republic of China
| | - Junjun She
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Rea LD, Castellini JM, Avery JP, Fadely BS, Burkanov VN, Rehberg MJ, O'Hara TM. Regional variations and drivers of mercury and selenium concentrations in Steller sea lions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 744:140787. [PMID: 32717470 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.140787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) can be neurotoxic to mammals and impact reproduction, whereas selenium (Se) is an important antioxidant known to ameliorate some adverse effects of Hg. Total Hg concentrations ([THg]) were measured in lanugo (pelage grown in utero) of 812 Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus) pups across Alaska and Russia to assess fetal exposure during late gestation. The molar ratio of total Se to THg (TSe:THg) was determined in whole blood collected from 291 pups. Stable isotope ratios of carbon and nitrogen were measured in sections of vibrissae (whiskers, n = 498) and in lanugo (n = 480) of pups grown during late gestation to track diet variations among adult females that can drive Hg and Se exposure during this critical fetal development period. Lanugo [THg] ranged from 1.4 to 73.7 μg/g dry weight with the lowest median [THg] in Southeast Alaska. Pups from the Western Aleutian Islands had higher median lanugo [THg] than pups from other metapopulations in Alaska. Over 25% of pups in the Western Aleutian Islands had [THg] above published risk thresholds (20 μg/g) for other mammals. Whole blood molar TSe:THg was significantly lower in the Western Aleutian Islands and in some parts of the Central Aleutian Islands with higher molar ratios found in the Eastern Aleutian Islands and Central Gulf of Alaska. This suggests a limitation on potential protective functions of Se in the western regions with the highest relative [THg]. The Central Aleutian Island pups with [THg] over 20 μg/g had higher δ15N ratios than pups with lower [THg] suggesting dams consuming higher trophic level prey is a key driver for Hg exposure. However, regional differences likely reflect variability in diet of the dam during gestation and in Hg food web dynamics between oceanic regimes east and west of key passes in the Aleutian Islands.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L D Rea
- Institute of Northern Engineering, Water and Environmental Research Center, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA; Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Division of Wildlife Conservation, Anchorage, AK 99518, USA.
| | - J M Castellini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA.
| | - J P Avery
- Institute of Northern Engineering, Water and Environmental Research Center, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA.
| | - B S Fadely
- Marine Mammal Laboratory, Alaska Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, NOAA, Seattle, WA 98115, USA.
| | - V N Burkanov
- Marine Mammal Laboratory, Alaska Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, NOAA, Seattle, WA 98115, USA; Kamchatka Branch of the Pacific Geographical Institute, Far East Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 6 Partizanskaya Street, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky 683000, Russia.
| | - M J Rehberg
- Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Division of Wildlife Conservation, Anchorage, AK 99518, USA.
| | - T M O'Hara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA; Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Dolgova NV, Nehzati S, MacDonald TC, Summers KL, Crawford AM, Krone PH, George GN, Pickering IJ. Disruption of selenium transport and function is a major contributor to mercury toxicity in zebrafish larvae. Metallomics 2020; 11:621-631. [PMID: 30688331 DOI: 10.1039/c8mt00315g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Mercury is one of the most toxic elements threatening the biosphere, with levels steadily rising due to both natural and human activities. Selenium is an essential micronutrient, required for normal development and functioning of many organisms. While selenium is known to counteract mercury's toxicity under some conditions, to date information about the mercury-selenium relationship is fragmented and often controversial. As part of a systematic study of mercury and selenium interactions, zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae (a model verterbrate) were exposed to methylmercury chloride or mercuric chloride. The influence of pre- and post-treatment of selenomethionine on the level and distribution of mercury and selenium in the brain and eye sections, as well as on toxicity, were examined. Selenomethionine treatment decreased the amount of maternally transfered mercury in the larval brain. Selenomethionine treatment prior to exposure to mercuric chloride increased both mercury and selenium levels in the brain but decreased their toxic effects. Conversely, methylmercury levels were not changed as a result of selenium pre-treatment, while toxicity was increased. Strikingly, both forms of mercury severely disrupted selenium metabolism, not only by depleting selenium levels due to formation of Hg-Se complexes, but also by blocking selenium transport into and out of tissues, suggesting that restoring normal selenium levels by treating the organism with selenium after mercury exposure may not be possible. Disruption of selenium metabolism by mercury may lead to disruption in function of selenoproteins. Indeed, the production of thyroid hormones by selenoprotein deiodinases was found to be severely impaired as a result of mercury exposure, with selenomethionine not always being a suitable source of selenium to restore thyroid hormone levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia V Dolgova
- Molecular and Environment Sciences Group, Department of Geological Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, 114 Science Place, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 5E2, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Day NK, Schmidt TS, Roberts JJ, Osmundson BC, Willacker JJ, Eagles-Smith CA. Mercury and selenium concentrations in fishes of the Upper Colorado River Basin, southwestern United States: A retrospective assessment. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0226824. [PMID: 31929573 PMCID: PMC6957192 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) and selenium (Se) are contaminants of concern for fish in the Upper Colorado River Basin (UCRB). We explored Hg and Se in fish tissues (2,324 individuals) collected over 50 years (1962-2011) from the UCRB. Samples include native and non-native fish collected from lotic waterbodies spanning 7 major tributaries to the Colorado River. There was little variation of total mercury (THg) in fish assemblages basin-wide and only 13% (272/1959) of individual fish samples exceeded the fish health benchmark (0.27 μg THg/g ww). Most THg exceedances were observed in the White-Yampa tributary whereas the San Juan had the lowest mean THg concentration. Risks associated with THg are species specific with exceedances dominated by Colorado Pikeminnow (mean = 0.38 and standard error ± 0.08 μg THg/g ww) and Roundtail Chub (0.24 ± 0.06 μg THg/g ww). For Se, 48% (827/1720) of all individuals exceeded the fish health benchmark (5.1 μg Se/g dw). The Gunnison river had the most individual exceedances of the Se benchmark (74%) whereas the Dirty Devil had the fewest. We identified that species of management concern accumulate THg and Se to levels above risk thresholds and that fishes of the White-Yampa (THg) and Gunnison (Se) rivers are at the greatest risk in the UCRB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalie K. Day
- U.S. Geological Survey, Southwest Biological Science Center, Moab, Utah, United States of America
| | - Travis S. Schmidt
- U.S. Geological Survey, Colorado Water Science Center, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - James J. Roberts
- U.S. Geological Survey, Colorado Water Science Center, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Barbara C. Osmundson
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Grand Junction, Colorado, United States of America
| | - James J. Willacker
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Collin A. Eagles-Smith
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Grajewska A, Falkowska L, Saniewska D, Pawliczka I. Changes in total mercury, methylmercury, and selenium blood levels during different life history stages of the Baltic grey seal (Halichoerus grypus grypus). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 676:268-277. [PMID: 31048158 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.04.204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2019] [Revised: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Using the blood of grey seal pups, the blood and milk of female grey seals inhabiting the Hel Marine Station of Gdansk University's Institute of Oceanography (HMS), we monitored the transfer of total mercury (THg), methylmercury (MeHg), and selenium (Se) with blood during foetal life and nursing. Changes in the concentration of mercury and selenium were characterised in the pups' blood during their first three months of life when they transition from suckling, to a post-weaning fast, to eating fish. In the blood of pregnant females, there was a significant decrease in THg and MeHg concentrations throughout the gestation, indicating the transfer of these toxins through the placenta into the foetus. At no other stage of the pup's development was there such a high level of THg and MeHg as on the day of birth, despite the incorporation of mercury into the lanugo during foetal growth. This suggests that the maternal transfer of mercury during gestation may be the time of greatest mercury exposure for a young seal pup. The consumption of milk caused a rapid increase in weight and a lowering of the mercury level in the blood in the subsequent days of the pups' life. The postweaning fast was the period of the lowest mercury concentration. The switch to a diet consisting of fish caused a systematic increase in the concentration of mercury in the blood of the pups. Milk was the significant source of selenium for pups and the selenium concentration in females' blood was reduced during lactation. The nursing period seemed to have the greatest impact on the mercury and selenium blood levels in examined seals. Natural development of the grey seal pup created an opportunity to decrease the levels of toxic substances obtained through the maternal transfer during foetal growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Grajewska
- University of Gdansk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Institute of Oceanography, Department of Marine Chemistry and Environmental Protection, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland.
| | - Lucyna Falkowska
- University of Gdansk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Institute of Oceanography, Department of Marine Chemistry and Environmental Protection, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland
| | - Dominika Saniewska
- University of Gdansk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Institute of Oceanography, Department of Marine Chemistry and Environmental Protection, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378 Gdynia, Poland
| | - Iwona Pawliczka
- University of Gdansk, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, Institute of Oceanography, Professor Krzysztof Skóra Hel Marine Station, ul. Morska 2, 84-150 Hel, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Eagles-Smith CA, Silbergeld EK, Basu N, Bustamante P, Diaz-Barriga F, Hopkins WA, Kidd KA, Nyland JF. Modulators of mercury risk to wildlife and humans in the context of rapid global change. AMBIO 2018; 47:170-197. [PMID: 29388128 PMCID: PMC5794686 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-017-1011-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 185] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Environmental mercury (Hg) contamination is an urgent global health threat. The complexity of Hg in the environment can hinder accurate determination of ecological and human health risks, particularly within the context of the rapid global changes that are altering many ecological processes, socioeconomic patterns, and other factors like infectious disease incidence, which can affect Hg exposures and health outcomes. However, the success of global Hg-reduction efforts depends on accurate assessments of their effectiveness in reducing health risks. In this paper, we examine the role that key extrinsic and intrinsic drivers play on several aspects of Hg risk to humans and organisms in the environment. We do so within three key domains of ecological and human health risk. First, we examine how extrinsic global change drivers influence pathways of Hg bioaccumulation and biomagnification through food webs. Next, we describe how extrinsic socioeconomic drivers at a global scale, and intrinsic individual-level drivers, influence human Hg exposure. Finally, we address how the adverse health effects of Hg in humans and wildlife are modulated by a range of extrinsic and intrinsic drivers within the context of rapid global change. Incorporating components of these three domains into research and monitoring will facilitate a more holistic understanding of how ecological and societal drivers interact to influence Hg health risks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ellen K. Silbergeld
- Johns Hopkin Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, E6644, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Niladri Basu
- McGill University, 204-CINE Building, Montreal, QC H9X 3V9 Canada
| | - Paco Bustamante
- University of La Rochelle, laboratory of Littoral Environment and Societies, Littoral Environnement et Sociétés (LIENSs), LIENSs UMR 7266 CNRS-Université de La Rochelle, 2 rue Olympe de Gouges, 17000 La Rochelle, France
| | - Fernando Diaz-Barriga
- Center for Applied Research in Environment and Health at, Universidad Autonoma de San Luis Potosi, Avenida Venustiano Carranza No. 2405, Col Lomas los Filtros Código Postal, 78214 San Luis Potosí, SLP Mexico
| | - William A. Hopkins
- Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation, 310 West Campus Drive Virginia Tech, Cheatham Hall, Room 106 (MC 0321), Blacksburg, VA 24061 USA
| | - Karen A. Kidd
- Department of Biology & School of Geography and Earth Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street W., Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1 Canada
| | - Jennifer F. Nyland
- Department of Biological Sciences, 1101 Camden Ave, Salisbury, MD 21801 USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Nehring I, Grajewska A, Falkowska L, Staniszewska M, Pawliczka I, Saniewska D. Transfer of mercury and phenol derivatives across the placenta of Baltic grey seals (Halichoerus grypus grypus). ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2017; 231:1005-1012. [PMID: 28898953 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.08.094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2017] [Revised: 08/11/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The placenta is an intermediary organ between the female and the developing foetus. Some chemical substances, including the most harmful ones, exhibit the ability to accumulate in or penetrate through the placenta. The aim of the study was to determine the role of the placenta of the Baltic grey seal (Halichoerus grypus grypus) in the transfer of endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) - (bisphenol A, 4-tert- octylphenol, 4- nonylphenol), as well as total and organic mercury. 30 placentas were collected from grey seals pupping under human care at the Hel Marine Station in the years 2007-2016. The assays were conducted using the technique of high-preformance liquid chromatography (phenol derivatives) and atomic absorption spectrometry (mercury and selenium). A measurable level of EDCs was indicated in the placentas of grey seals. It was established that the inorganic Hg form was accumulated in the placenta, and that its concentrations were an order of magnitude higher than the concentrations of the organic form, which penetrated to the foetus. Similar observations were made for phenol derivatives - bisphenol A, 4-tert- octylphenol and 4-nonylphenol. For this compound group the placenta was a barrier, but the properties of phenol derivatives suggest the possibility of their penetration through this organ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iga Nehring
- Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Grajewska
- Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland.
| | - Lucyna Falkowska
- Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Marta Staniszewska
- Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Iwona Pawliczka
- Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland; Hel Marine Station, Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, ul. Morska 2, 84-150, Hel, Poland
| | - Dominika Saniewska
- Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk, Al. Marszałka Piłsudskiego 46, 81-378, Gdynia, Poland
| |
Collapse
|