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Chatziefthimiou AD, Metcalf JS, Glover WB, Powell JT, Banack SA, Cox PA, Ladjimi M, Sultan AA, Chemaitelly H, Richer RA. Cyanotoxin accumulation and growth patterns of biocrust communities under variable environmental conditions. Toxicon X 2024; 23:100199. [PMID: 38974839 PMCID: PMC11225906 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2024.100199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Biocrusts dominate the soil surface in deserts and are composed of diverse microbial communities that provide important ecosystem services. Cyanobacteria in biocrusts produce many secondary metabolites, including the neurotoxins BMAA, AEG, DAB, anatoxin-a(S) (guanitoxin), and the microcystin hepatotoxins, all known or suspected to cause disease or illness in humans and other animals. We examined cyanobacterial growth and prevalence of these toxins in biocrusts at millimeter-scales, under a desert-relevant illumination gradient. In contrast to previous work, we showed that hydration had an overall positive effect on growth and toxin accumulation, that nitrogen was not correlated with growth or toxin production, and that phosphorus enrichment negatively affected AEG and BMAA concentrations. Excess illumination positively correlated with AEG, and negatively correlated with all other toxins and growth. Basic pH negatively affected only the accumulation of BMAA. Anatoxin-a(S) (guanitoxin) was not correlated with any tested variables, while microcystins were not detected in any of the samples. Concerning toxin pools, AEG and BMAA were good predictors of the presence of one another. In a newly conceptualized scheme, we integrate aspects of biocrust growth and toxin pool accumulations with arid-relevant desertification drivers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - James S. Metcalf
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY, USA
- Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH, USA
| | | | - James T. Powell
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY, USA
| | - Sandra A. Banack
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY, USA
| | - Paul A. Cox
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY, USA
| | - Moncef Ladjimi
- Weill Cornell Medicine – Qatar, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ali A. Sultan
- Weill Cornell Medicine – Qatar, Education City, Doha, Qatar
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Mehta P, Raymond J, Nair T, Han M, Punjani R, Larson T, Berry J, Mohidul S, Horton DK. Prevalence of ALS in all 50 states in the United States, data from the National ALS Registry, 2011-2018. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2024:1-7. [PMID: 38826088 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2024.2358786] [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: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Objective: To summarize the prevalence of ALS in all 50 states and Washington, DC in the United States from 2011 to 2018 using data collected and analyzed by the National ALS Registry. In October 2010, the federal Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) launched the congressionally mandated Registry to determine the incidence and prevalence of ALS within the USA, characterize the demographics of persons with ALS, and identify the potential risk factors for the disease. This is the first analysis of state-level ALS prevalence estimates. Methods: ALS is not a notifiable disease in the USA, so the Registry uses a two-pronged approach to identify cases. The first approach uses existing national administrative databases (Medicare, Veterans Health Administration, and Veterans Benefits Administration). The second method uses a secure web portal to gather voluntary participant data and identify cases not included in the national administrative databases. Results: State-level age-adjusted average prevalence from 2011-2018 ranged from 2.6 per 100,000 persons (Hawaii) to 7.8 per 100,000 persons (Vermont), with an average of 4.4 per 100,000 persons in the US. New England and Midwest regions had higher prevalence rates than the national average. Conclusions: These findings summarize the prevalence of ALS for all 50 states from 2011 to 2018. This is a continuing effort to identify ALS cases on a national population basis. The establishment of the National ALS Registry has allowed for epidemiological trends of this disease and the assessment of potential risk factors that could cause ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Mehta
- Office of Innovation and Analytics, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jaime Raymond
- Office of Innovation and Analytics, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Theresa Nair
- Office of Innovation and Analytics, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Moon Han
- Office of Innovation and Analytics, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Reshma Punjani
- Office of Innovation and Analytics, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Theodore Larson
- Office of Innovation and Analytics, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jasmine Berry
- Office of Innovation and Analytics, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Suraya Mohidul
- Office of Innovation and Analytics, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - D Kevin Horton
- Office of Innovation and Analytics, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Lim CC, Yoon J, Reynolds K, Gerald LB, Ault AP, Heo S, Bell ML. Harmful algal bloom aerosols and human health. EBioMedicine 2023; 93:104604. [PMID: 37164781 PMCID: PMC10363441 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are increasing across many locations globally. Toxins from HABs can be incorporated into aerosols and transported inland, where subsequent exposure and inhalation can induce adverse health effects. However, the relationship between HAB aerosols and health outcomes remains unclear despite the potential for population-level exposures. In this review, we synthesized the current state of knowledge and identified evidence gaps in the relationship between HAB aerosols and human health. Aerosols from Karenia brevis, Ostreopsis sp., and cyanobacteria were linked with respiratory outcomes. However, most works did not directly measure aerosol or toxin concentrations and instead relied on proxy metrics of exposure, such as cell concentrations in nearby waterbodies. Furthermore, the number of studies with epidemiological designs was limited. Significant uncertainties remain regarding the health effects of other HAB species; threshold dose and the dose-response relationship; effects of concurrent exposures to mixtures of toxins and other aerosol sources, such as microplastics and metals; the impact of long-term exposures; and disparities in exposures and associated health effects across potentially vulnerable subpopulations. Additional studies employing multifaceted exposure assessment methods and leveraging large health databases could address such gaps and improve our understanding of the public health burden of HABs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris C Lim
- Zuckerman College of Public Health, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA.
| | - Jeonggyo Yoon
- Zuckerman College of Public Health, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Kelly Reynolds
- Zuckerman College of Public Health, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Lynn B Gerald
- Population Health Sciences Program, Office of the Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Andrew P Ault
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Seulkee Heo
- School of the Environment, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Michelle L Bell
- School of the Environment, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Barney RE, Huang G, Gallagher TL, Tischbein M, DeWitt J, Martindale R, LaRochelle EMP, Tsongalis GJ, Stommel EW. Validation of a Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) Assay to Detect Cyanobacterial 16S rDNA in Human Lung Tissue. TOXICS 2023; 11:531. [PMID: 37368631 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11060531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Cyanobacteria produce a variety of secondary metabolites, including toxins that may contribute to the development of disease. Previous work was able to detect the presence of a cyanobacterial marker in human nasal and broncoalveolar lavage samples; however, it was not able to determine the quantification of the marker. To further research the relationship between cyanobacteria and human health, we validated a droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) assay to simultaneously detect the cyanobacterial 16S marker and a human housekeeping gene in human lung tissue samples. The ability to detect cyanobacteria in human samples will allow further research into the role cyanobacteria plays in human health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael E Barney
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pathology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Guohong Huang
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pathology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Torrey L Gallagher
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pathology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Maeve Tischbein
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Neurology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - John DeWitt
- Department of Pathology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA
| | - Rachel Martindale
- Department of Pathology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA
| | - Ethan M P LaRochelle
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pathology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Gregory J Tsongalis
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pathology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Elijah W Stommel
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Neurology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
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Stipa G, Ancidoni A, Vanacore N, Bellomo G. Raw Water and ALS: A Unifying Hypothesis for the Environmental Agents Involved in ALS. Ann Neurosci 2023; 30:124-132. [PMID: 37706096 PMCID: PMC10496797 DOI: 10.1177/09727531221120358] [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: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Different studies identified the presence of several altered genes in familial and sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) forms. The experimental data, together with the epidemiological data, would seem to suggest the existence of molecular mechanisms (e.g., axonal transport) related to these genes, together with a susceptibility of the same genes to certain environmental factors that would therefore suggest an impact of the environment on the etiopathogenesis of ALS. In our review, we considered the most relevant environmental clusters around the world, collecting different hypotheses and underlining common environmental factors among the different clusters. Moreover, further epidemiological data identified a higher risk of ALS in professional athletes and, in particular, in soccer and football players. Despite this increased risk of ALS highlighted by the epidemiological evidence in aforementioned sports, the mechanisms remain unclear. At last, the use of raw water has been associated with ALS risk. The aim of the present review is to characterize a possible relationship between these clusters, to be explored in the context of the interaction between genetic and environmental factors on the etiopathogenesis of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Stipa
- Clinical Neurophysiology Division, Neuroscience Department, S. Maria University Hospital, Terni, Italy
| | - Antonio Ancidoni
- National Center for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, National Institute of Health (ISS), Roma, Italy
| | - Nicola Vanacore
- National Center for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, National Institute of Health (ISS), Roma, Italy
| | - Guido Bellomo
- National Center for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, National Institute of Health (ISS), Roma, Italy
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6
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Nugumanova G, Ponomarev ED, Askarova S, Fasler-Kan E, Barteneva NS. Freshwater Cyanobacterial Toxins, Cyanopeptides and Neurodegenerative Diseases. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:toxins15030233. [PMID: 36977124 PMCID: PMC10057253 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15030233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyanobacteria produce a wide range of structurally diverse cyanotoxins and bioactive cyanopeptides in freshwater, marine, and terrestrial ecosystems. The health significance of these metabolites, which include genotoxic- and neurotoxic agents, is confirmed by continued associations between the occurrence of animal and human acute toxic events and, in the long term, by associations between cyanobacteria and neurodegenerative diseases. Major mechanisms related to the neurotoxicity of cyanobacteria compounds include (1) blocking of key proteins and channels; (2) inhibition of essential enzymes in mammalian cells such as protein phosphatases and phosphoprotein phosphatases as well as new molecular targets such as toll-like receptors 4 and 8. One of the widely discussed implicated mechanisms includes a misincorporation of cyanobacterial non-proteogenic amino acids. Recent research provides evidence that non-proteinogenic amino acid BMAA produced by cyanobacteria have multiple effects on translation process and bypasses the proof-reading ability of the aminoacyl-tRNA-synthetase. Aberrant proteins generated by non-canonical translation may be a factor in neuronal death and neurodegeneration. We hypothesize that the production of cyanopeptides and non-canonical amino acids is a more general mechanism, leading to mistranslation, affecting protein homeostasis, and targeting mitochondria in eukaryotic cells. It can be evolutionarily ancient and initially developed to control phytoplankton communities during algal blooms. Outcompeting gut symbiotic microorganisms may lead to dysbiosis, increased gut permeability, a shift in blood-brain-barrier functionality, and eventually, mitochondrial dysfunction in high-energy demanding neurons. A better understanding of the interaction between cyanopeptides metabolism and the nervous system will be crucial to target or to prevent neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galina Nugumanova
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Eugene D Ponomarev
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Sholpan Askarova
- Center for Life Sciences, National Laboratory Astana, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Elizaveta Fasler-Kan
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital, Inselspital Bern, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Natasha S Barteneva
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
- The Environment & Resource Efficiency Cluster (EREC), Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
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Saucier D, Registe PPW, Bélanger M, O'Connell C. Urbanization, air pollution, and water pollution: Identification of potential environmental risk factors associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis using systematic reviews. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1108383. [PMID: 36970522 PMCID: PMC10030603 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1108383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Despite decades of research, causes of ALS remain unclear. To evaluate recent hypotheses of plausible environmental factors, the aim of this study was to synthesize and appraise literature on the potential associations between the surrounding environment, including urbanization, air pollution and water pollution, and ALS. Methods We conducted a series (n = 3) of systematic reviews in PubMed and Scopus to identify epidemiological studies assessing relationships between urbanization, air pollution and water pollution with the development of ALS. Results The combined search strategy led to the inclusion of 44 articles pertaining to at least one exposure of interest. Of the 25 included urbanization studies, four of nine studies on living in rural areas and three of seven studies on living in more highly urbanized/dense areas found positive associations to ALS. There were also three of five studies for exposure to electromagnetic fields and/or proximity to powerlines that found positive associations to ALS. Three case-control studies for each of diesel exhaust and nitrogen dioxide found positive associations with the development of ALS, with the latter showing a dose-response in one study. Three studies for each of high selenium content in drinking water and proximity to lakes prone to cyanobacterial blooms also found positive associations to ALS. Conclusion Whereas markers of air and water pollution appear as potential risk factors for ALS, results are mixed for the role of urbanization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Saucier
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
- Center de formation médicale du Nouveau-Brunswick, Moncton, NB, Canada
- *Correspondence: Daniel Saucier
| | - Pierre Philippe Wilson Registe
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
- Center de formation médicale du Nouveau-Brunswick, Moncton, NB, Canada
| | - Mathieu Bélanger
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
- Center de formation médicale du Nouveau-Brunswick, Moncton, NB, Canada
| | - Colleen O'Connell
- Stan Cassidy Center for Rehabilitation, Fredericton, NB, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick, Saint John, NB, Canada
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8
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Aslam A, Sarmad E, Nawaz A, Numan A, Ahmad A, Hassan MA. Brait-Fahn-Schwartz Disease: A Unique Co-Occurrence of Parkinson's Disease and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Case Rep Neurol 2023; 15:207-214. [PMID: 37901127 PMCID: PMC10601670 DOI: 10.1159/000532092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The Parkinson's disease-amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) complex typically manifests as levodopa-responsive parkinsonism, followed by ALS. It is extremely rare for Parkinson's disease and ALS to coexist without other neurological disorders. Named after the scientists who first described this overlap of two neurodegenerative conditions, it is referred to as Brait-Fahn-Schwartz disease. Given its variable presentation, increasing rarity, and lack of any diagnostic test, it poses a diagnostic challenge for physicians. We present a case of a 55-year-old Pakistani male experiencing progressive quadriparesis with spastic lower limbs and flaccid upper limbs, in addition to the cardinal features of idiopathic Parkinson's disease. Since there is currently no cure available for either Parkinson's disease or ALS, all available treatment focuses on improving quality of life, which we achieved in our patient. This case is unique in being the first incidence of Parkinson's disease-ALS complex in a novel geographic region such as Pakistan, where genetic testing and cost constraints limit the diagnosis of rare disorders. The coexistence of extrapyramidal symptoms and pyramidal symptoms is uncommon. In such situations, physicians may overlook one group of symptoms, potentially leading to a misdiagnosis. This case highlights the value of a thorough physical examination and electrodiagnostic studies and suggests the association between Parkinson's disease and ALS. This case demonstrates the significance of understanding when Parkinson's disease symptoms start to appear in patients with ALS and the need to start dopaminergic therapy in those who had Parkinson's disease features before ALS to alleviate the suffering of an individual and enhance quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha Aslam
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Hospital, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Eisham Sarmad
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Hospital, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Ahmad Nawaz
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Hospital, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Ahsan Numan
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Hospital, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Azba Ahmad
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Hospital, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Aarish Hassan
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Hospital, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
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Marler TE, Shaw CA. Metals and Metalloids Increase in Cycas micronesica Seed Gametophyte Tissue in Shaded Growth Conditions. TOXICS 2022; 10:550. [PMID: 36287831 PMCID: PMC9609483 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10100550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to environmental toxins may be partly responsible for mammal neurodegenerative disorders. Consumption of seeds from Guam's cycad tree has been linked to the disorder known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-parkinsonism dementia complex (ALS-PDC). The unambiguous identification of causal agents of ALS-PDC has been elusive. We have examined the levels of eight metals and metalloids in cycad seeds as a function of the ambient shade in which the plants were grown. Of these metals, the data strongly suggest that aluminum (Al) and selenium (Se) are present in washed flour prepared from southern Guam's cycad seed tissues at elevated levels, especially when the trees are grown in shade. Previous authors have speculated that Al and Se are involved in various ALS outcomes, and our results support this interpretation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas E. Marler
- Bagong Kaalaman Botanikal Institute, 15 Rizal Street, Barangay Malabañas, Angeles City 2009, Philippines
| | - Christopher A. Shaw
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada
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Courtier A, Potheret D, Giannoni P. Environmental bacteria as triggers to brain disease: Possible mechanisms of toxicity and associated human risk. Life Sci 2022; 304:120689. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Gourevitch JD, Koliba C, Rizzo DM, Zia A, Ricketts TH. Quantifying the social benefits and costs of reducing phosphorus pollution under climate change. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 293:112838. [PMID: 34087647 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.112838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Excess phosphorus loading to waterbodies has led to increasing frequency and severity of harmful algal blooms, negatively impacting economic activity and human health. While interventions to improve water quality can create large societal benefits, these investments are costly and the value of benefits is often unknown. Understanding the social and economic impacts of reduced phosphorus loading is critical for developing effective land use policies and for generating public and political support for these initiatives. Here, we quantify the social benefits and costs of improving water quality in Lake Champlain under a range of phosphorus reduction and climate change scenarios between 2016 and 2050. We use statistical models to link water quality outputs from an established integrated assessment model with three categories of benefits: tourism expenditures, property sales, and avoided human health impacts. We estimate the costs of reducing phosphorus loading using data reported by the State of Vermont. We find that under the most aggressive phosphorus reduction scenario, the total benefits of improved water quality are $55 to $60 million between 2016 and 2050. Over this 35 year time horizon, the combined benefits do not outweigh the costs under any scenario. If the time horizon is extended to 2100 or beyond, however, the benefits may exceed the costs if the applied discount rate is less than 3%. Importantly, we almost certainly underestimate the value of clean water, due to the omission of other types of benefits. Despite this uncertainty, our study provides a tractable framework for disentangling the complex relationships between water quality and human well-being, and illuminates the value of reductions in phosphorus loading to society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse D Gourevitch
- Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States; Vermont Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States; Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States.
| | - Chris Koliba
- Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States; Vermont Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States; Department of Community Development and Applied Economics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States
| | - Donna M Rizzo
- Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States; Vermont Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States
| | - Asim Zia
- Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States; Vermont Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States; Department of Community Development and Applied Economics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States
| | - Taylor H Ricketts
- Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States; Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States
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Fiore M, Parisio R, Filippini T, Mantione V, Platania A, Odone A, Signorelli C, Pietrini V, Mandrioli J, Teggi S, Costanzini S, Antonio C, Zuccarello P, Oliveri Conti G, Nicoletti A, Zappia M, Vinceti M, Ferrante M. Living near waterbodies as a proxy of cyanobacteria exposure and risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a population based case-control study. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 186:109530. [PMID: 32335431 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiological studies highlighted the possibility that exposure to cyanotoxins leads to the development of the neurodegenerative disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). METHODS We devised a population-based case-control study in two Italian populations. We used residential proximity of the residence to water bodies as a measure of possible exposure to cyanotoxins. RESULTS Based on 703 newly-diagnosed ALS cases and 2737 controls, we calculated an ALS odds ratio (OR) of 1.41 (95% CI: 0.72-2.74) for current residence in the vicinity of water bodies, and a slightly lower estimate for historical residence (OR: 1.31; 95% CI: 0.57-2.99). Subjects <65 years and people living in the Northern Italy province of Modena had higher ORs, especially when historical residence was considered. CONCLUSIONS Overall, despite some risk of bias due to exposure misclassification and unmeasured confounding, our results appear to support the hypothesis that cyanotoxin exposure may increase ALS risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Fiore
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123; Environmental and Food Hygiene Laboratory (LIAA). Department "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123.
| | - Roberto Parisio
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123
| | - Tommaso Filippini
- CREAGEN - Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Valerio Mantione
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123
| | - Armando Platania
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123
| | - Anna Odone
- Department of Biomedical, Biotechnological, and Translational Sciences, University of Parma, 14 Via Gramsci, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Carlo Signorelli
- Department of Biomedical, Biotechnological, and Translational Sciences, University of Parma, 14 Via Gramsci, 43126, Parma, Italy; School of Medicine, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, 58 Via Olgettina Milano, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Vladimiro Pietrini
- Department of Neuroscience, Neurology Unit, University of Parma, 14 Via Gramsci, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Jessica Mandrioli
- Department of Neuroscience, S. Agostino-Estense Hospital, and University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 1355 Via Pietro Giardini, 41126, Modena, Italy
| | - Sergio Teggi
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 10 Via Vivarelli, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Sofia Costanzini
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 10 Via Vivarelli, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Cristaldi Antonio
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123; Environmental and Food Hygiene Laboratory (LIAA). Department "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123
| | - Pietro Zuccarello
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123; Environmental and Food Hygiene Laboratory (LIAA). Department "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123
| | - Gea Oliveri Conti
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123; Environmental and Food Hygiene Laboratory (LIAA). Department "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123.
| | - Alessandra Nicoletti
- Section of Neurosciences, Department "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Mario Zappia
- Section of Neurosciences, Department "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Vinceti
- CREAGEN - Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Margherita Ferrante
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123; Environmental and Food Hygiene Laboratory (LIAA). Department "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123
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13
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Schneider T, Simpson C, Desai P, Tucker M, Lobner D. Neurotoxicity of isomers of the environmental toxin L-BMAA. Toxicon 2020; 184:175-179. [PMID: 32585217 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
There is evidence that the environmental toxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (L-BMAA) may be involved in neurodegenerative diseases. However, a number of controversies exist regarding L-BMAA, one of which is the possibility that when assaying for L-BMAA, its isomers are being detected instead. There are at least four isomers of BMAA that are known to occur: L-BMAA, β-N-methylamino-D-alanine (D-BMAA), 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB), and N-(2-aminoethyl)glycine (AEG). The fact that isomers of BMAA exist in nature also leads to the possibility that they are involved in toxicity. We set out to determine both the potency and the mechanism of toxicity of L-BMAA, D-BMAA, DAB, asnd AEG using primary cortical cultures. The results were surprising with the following order of potency of toxicity: AEG > DAB > D-BMAA > L-BMAA. These results suggest that AEG may be an overlooked neurotoxin. We found that AEG induced toxicity through mGluR5 receptors and induction of oxidative stress. While the potential role of L-BMAA in neurodegenerative diseases has been emphasized, other isomers of L-BMAA, particularly AEG, are actually more potent toxins, and could therefore potentially contribute to neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Schneider
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, 561 N. 15th Street, Rm 426,Milwaukee, WI, 53233, USA
| | - Catherine Simpson
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, 561 N. 15th Street, Rm 426,Milwaukee, WI, 53233, USA
| | - Prachi Desai
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, 561 N. 15th Street, Rm 426,Milwaukee, WI, 53233, USA
| | - Madeleine Tucker
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, 561 N. 15th Street, Rm 426,Milwaukee, WI, 53233, USA
| | - Doug Lobner
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, 561 N. 15th Street, Rm 426,Milwaukee, WI, 53233, USA.
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Transfer of the Neurotoxin β- N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) in the Agro-Aqua Cycle. Mar Drugs 2020; 18:md18050244. [PMID: 32384637 PMCID: PMC7281744 DOI: 10.3390/md18050244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurotoxic non-protein amino acid β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) is connected to the development of neurodegenerative diseases. BMAA has been shown to accumulate in aquatic ecosystems, and filter-feeding molluscs seem particularly susceptible to BMAA accumulation. The blue mussels farmed along the Swedish coastline in the Baltic Sea are, due to their small size, exclusively used to produce feed for chicken and fish in the agro-aqua cycle. We have investigated the possible biotransfer of BMAA from mussels, via mussel-based feed, into chickens. Chickens were divided into two groups, the control and the treatment. BMAA was extracted from the muscle, liver, brain, and eye tissues in both chicken groups; a UPLC-MS/MS method was subsequently used to quantify BMAA. The results indicate detectable concentrations of BMAA in both chicken groups. However, the BMAA concentration in chicken was 5.65 times higher in the treatment group than the control group, with the highest concentration found in muscle tissue extracted from the treatment group chickens. These data suggest that there is a BMAA transfer route within the agro-aqua cycle, so further investigation is recommended before using mussel-based feed in the chicken industry.
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15
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Filippini T, Tesauro M, Fiore M, Malagoli C, Consonni M, Violi F, Iacuzio L, Arcolin E, Oliveri Conti G, Cristaldi A, Zuccarello P, Zucchi E, Mazzini L, Pisano F, Gagliardi I, Patti F, Mandrioli J, Ferrante M, Vinceti M. Environmental and Occupational Risk Factors of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Population-Based Case-Control Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17082882. [PMID: 32331298 PMCID: PMC7216189 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17082882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disease with still unknown etiology. We aimed at investigating the association between environmental and occupational factors with ALS risk. Methods: We performed a population-based case-control study in four Italian provinces (Catania, Modena, Novara, and Reggio Emilia) by administration of tailored questionnaires to ALS cases (n = 95) and randomly selected population referents (n = 135). We estimated ALS risk by calculating the odds ratio (OR) with its 95% confidence interval (CI) using an unconditional logistic regression model. Results: We found a positive association with disease risk for history of occupation in the agricultural sector (OR = 2.09, 95% CI 0.79-7.54), especially for longer than 10 years (OR = 2.72, 95% 1.02-7.20). Overall occupational exposure to solvents also suggested a positive association, especially for thinners (OR = 2.27, 95% CI 1.14-4.54) and paint removers (OR = 2.01, 95% CI 0.90-4.48). Both occupational and environmental exposure to electromagnetic fields show a slightly increased risk with OR = 1.69 (95% CI 0.70-4.09) and 2.41 (95% CI 1.13-5.12), respectively. Occupational but not environmental exposure to pesticides (OR = 1.22, 95% CI 0.63-2.37), particularly fungicides, and exposure to metals (OR = 4.20, 95% CI 1.88-9.38), particularly lead, mercury, and selenium, showed an imprecise but positive association. Finally, there was an indication of increased risk for living in proximity to water bodies. Conclusions: Despite the caution that needs to be used due to some study limitations, such as the low number of exposed subjects and the possibility of recall bias, these results suggest the potential role of some environmental and occupational factors in ALS etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Filippini
- CREAGEN-Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (C.M.); (F.V.); (L.I.); (E.A.); (M.V.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Marina Tesauro
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.T.); (M.C.)
| | - Maria Fiore
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G. F. Ingrassia”, Catania University, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.F.); (G.O.C.); (A.C.); (P.Z.); (F.P.); (M.F.)
| | - Carlotta Malagoli
- CREAGEN-Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (C.M.); (F.V.); (L.I.); (E.A.); (M.V.)
| | - Michela Consonni
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.T.); (M.C.)
| | - Federica Violi
- CREAGEN-Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (C.M.); (F.V.); (L.I.); (E.A.); (M.V.)
- Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Laura Iacuzio
- CREAGEN-Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (C.M.); (F.V.); (L.I.); (E.A.); (M.V.)
- Department of Public Health, Local Health Unit, 41121 Modena, Italy
| | - Elisa Arcolin
- CREAGEN-Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (C.M.); (F.V.); (L.I.); (E.A.); (M.V.)
| | - Gea Oliveri Conti
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G. F. Ingrassia”, Catania University, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.F.); (G.O.C.); (A.C.); (P.Z.); (F.P.); (M.F.)
| | - Antonio Cristaldi
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G. F. Ingrassia”, Catania University, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.F.); (G.O.C.); (A.C.); (P.Z.); (F.P.); (M.F.)
| | - Pietro Zuccarello
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G. F. Ingrassia”, Catania University, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.F.); (G.O.C.); (A.C.); (P.Z.); (F.P.); (M.F.)
| | - Elisabetta Zucchi
- Neurology Unit, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy;
| | - Letizia Mazzini
- ALS Centre Department of Neurology, ‘Maggiore della Carità’ University Hospital, 28100 Novara, Italy; (L.M.); (I.G.)
| | - Fabrizio Pisano
- Neurological Rehabilitation Division, Policlinico San Marco di Zingonia, 24046 Zingonia (BG), Italy;
| | - Ileana Gagliardi
- ALS Centre Department of Neurology, ‘Maggiore della Carità’ University Hospital, 28100 Novara, Italy; (L.M.); (I.G.)
| | - Francesco Patti
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G. F. Ingrassia”, Catania University, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.F.); (G.O.C.); (A.C.); (P.Z.); (F.P.); (M.F.)
| | - Jessica Mandrioli
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, S. Agostino Estense Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy;
| | - Margherita Ferrante
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G. F. Ingrassia”, Catania University, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.F.); (G.O.C.); (A.C.); (P.Z.); (F.P.); (M.F.)
| | - Marco Vinceti
- CREAGEN-Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (C.M.); (F.V.); (L.I.); (E.A.); (M.V.)
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA
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16
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Energy Balance as a Moderator of Neurologic Disease Risk and Progression. Neurotox Res 2020; 38:242-248. [PMID: 32215816 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-020-00190-4] [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: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating disease that like multiple other neurologic diseases has no curative treatment currently available. Environmental exposures to known neurotoxic compounds (e.g., pesticides, heavy metals, cyanobacterial toxins, etc.) are identified as risk factors associated with ALS. Assuming these environmental factors have causative roles in disease risk and given the ubiquity of these types of exposures for the modern human, why are not more people afflicted with ALS? Herein is proposed an energy balance moderation framework (EBMF)-a framework that postulates energy balance as a key moderator of neurologic disease risk. The EBMF proposes that the ability of the body to handle toxic compound exposures through excretion, metabolism, and/or storage impacts the acute and chronic tissue-specific toxicity which is moderated by energy balance. In this model, positive energy balance (weight gain or excess body weight/mass) would be protective against acute neurotoxic exposure permitting the assimilation and sequestration of toxic compounds within body stores separate from the nervous system. However, this protective buffering could be lost during sustained negative energy balance (weight loss) with the release of sequestered compounds redistributing to the nervous system. The EBMF may have relevance beyond ALS for other neurologic diseases with demonstrated environmental risks (such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease) and offers new insights into potential strategies to reduce disease risk and develop novel treatments.
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17
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Schaefer AM, Yrastorza L, Stockley N, Harvey K, Harris N, Grady R, Sullivan J, McFarland M, Reif JS. Exposure to microcystin among coastal residents during a cyanobacteria bloom in Florida. HARMFUL ALGAE 2020; 92:101769. [PMID: 32113588 DOI: 10.1016/j.hal.2020.101769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Florida has experienced multiple cyanobacteria blooms in recent years the most severe of which occurred in 2016 and 2018. Several toxins are produced by proliferating cyanobacteria, including the hepatotoxin microcystin (MC). Harmful algal blooms (HABs) caused by cyanobacteria have the potential to impact public health. However, to date there have been limited attempts to quantify exposure in human populations. This study investigated potential exposure to the cyanobacterial toxin, MC by measuring concentrations in swabs of the nasal mucosa. In addition, the relationships between nasal concentrations of MC, environmental concentrations and activity patterns were assessed. Participants (n = 125) were recruited in 2018 during a cyanobacterial bloom of Microcystis aeruginosa and completed a questionnaire which included location, type, and duration of recreational or occupational contact with impacted waterways within the last 10 days. Water samples were collected concurrently. A sterile swab was used to collect a sample from the nasal mucosa. Concentrations of MC were measured by ELISA. Of the 121 participants who provided nasal swabs, 115 (95.0 %) had concentrations of MC above the limit of detection with a mean concentration of 0.61 + 0.75 ppb. There were significant differences (p < 0.01) in mean MC concentration between individuals with direct contact with impacted waters (0.77 + 0.88 ppb) compared to those with no recent contact (0.37 + 0.49 ppb). Higher concentrations were observed among occupationally exposed individuals. Nasal concentrations of MC varied significantly over time and location of exposure to the bloom, concordant with concentrations in water samples. The results suggest that inhalation of aerosols may be an important pathway for exposure to MC. Nasal MC concentrations were generally highest during periods when concentrations in the surrounding waters peaked. Further research is needed to characterize the public health implications of exposure to cyanobacterial blooms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam M Schaefer
- Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, Florida Atlantic University, 5600 U.S. 1 N, Ft Pierce, FL, 34946, USA.
| | - Luke Yrastorza
- Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, Florida Atlantic University, 5600 U.S. 1 N, Ft Pierce, FL, 34946, USA.
| | - Nicole Stockley
- Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, Florida Atlantic University, 5600 U.S. 1 N, Ft Pierce, FL, 34946, USA.
| | - Kathi Harvey
- Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, USA.
| | - Nancy Harris
- Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, USA.
| | - Robert Grady
- Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, Florida Atlantic University, 5600 U.S. 1 N, Ft Pierce, FL, 34946, USA.
| | - James Sullivan
- Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, Florida Atlantic University, 5600 U.S. 1 N, Ft Pierce, FL, 34946, USA.
| | - Malcolm McFarland
- Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, Florida Atlantic University, 5600 U.S. 1 N, Ft Pierce, FL, 34946, USA.
| | - John S Reif
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University 1681 Campus, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA.
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18
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Erber AC, Cetin H, Berry D, Schernhammer ES. The role of gut microbiota, butyrate and proton pump inhibitors in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a systematic review. Int J Neurosci 2019; 130:727-735. [PMID: 31870202 DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2019.1702549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Aim of the study: We conducted a systematic review on existing literature in humans and animals, linking the gut microbiome with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Additionally, we sought to explore the role of the bacterially produced metabolite butyrate as well as of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in these associations.Materials and methods: Following PRISMA guidelines for systematic literature reviews, four databases (Medline, Scopus, Embase and Web of Science) were searched and screened by two independent reviewers against defined inclusion criteria. Six studies in humans and six animal studies were identified, summarized and reviewed.Results: Overall, the evidence accrued to date is supportive of changes in the gut microbiome being associated with ALS risk, and potentially progression, though observational studies are small (describing a total of 145 patients with ALS across all published studies), and not entirely conclusive.Conclusions: With emerging studies beginning to apply metagenome sequencing, more clarity regarding the importance and promise of the gut microbiome in ALS can be expected. Future studies may also help establish the therapeutic potential of butyrate, and the role of PPIs in these associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid C Erber
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Nuffield Department of Medicine, Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, UK
| | - Hakan Cetin
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - David Berry
- Division of Microbial Ecology, Department of Microbiology and Ecosystem Function, Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Joint Microbiome Facility of the Medical University of Vienna and the University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Eva S Schernhammer
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Channing Division of Network Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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19
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Violi JP, Mitrovic SM, Colville A, Main BJ, Rodgers KJ. Prevalence of β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and its isomers in freshwater cyanobacteria isolated from eastern Australia. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2019; 172:72-81. [PMID: 30682636 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2019.01.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Environmental exposure to the amino acid β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) was linked to the high incidence of neurodegenerative disease first reported on the island of Guam in the 1940s and has more recently been implicated in an increased incidence of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in parts of the USA. BMAA has been shown to be produced by a range of cyanobacteria and some marine diatoms and dinoflagellates in different parts of the world. BMAA is commonly found with two of its constitutional isomers: 2,4- diaminobutyric acid (2,4-DAB) and N-(2-aminoethyl) glycine (AEG). These isomers are thought to be co-produced by the same organisms that produce BMAA and MS/MS analysis following LC separation can add an additional level of specificity over LC-FL. Although the presence of BMAA and 2,4-DAB in surface scum samples from several sites in Australia has been reported, which Australian cyanobacterial species are capable of BMAA, 2,4-DAB and AEG production remains unknown. The aims of the present studies were to identify some of the cyanobacterial genera or species that can produce BMAA, 2,4-DAB and AEG in freshwater cyanobacteria blooms in eastern Australia. Eleven freshwater sites were sampled and from these, 19 single-species cyanobacterial cultures were established. Amino acids were extracted from cyanobacterial cultures and analysed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. BMAA was detected in 17 of the 19 isolates, 2,4-DAB was detected in all isolates, and AEG was detected in 18 of the 19 isolates, showing the prevalence of these amino acids in Australian freshwater cyanobacteria. Concentrations of all three isomers in Australian cyanobacteria were generally higher than the concentrations reported elsewhere. This study confirmed the presence of BMAA and its isomers in cyanobacteria isolated from eastern Australian freshwater systems, and determined which Australian cyanobacterial genera or species were capable of producing them when cultured under laboratory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake P Violi
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Simon M Mitrovic
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Anne Colville
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Brendan J Main
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Kenneth J Rodgers
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia.
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20
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Facciponte DN, Bough MW, Seidler D, Carroll JL, Ashare A, Andrew AS, Tsongalis GJ, Vaickus LJ, Henegan PL, Butt TH, Stommel EW. Identifying aerosolized cyanobacteria in the human respiratory tract: A proposed mechanism for cyanotoxin-associated diseases. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 645:1003-1013. [PMID: 30248825 PMCID: PMC6159226 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.07.226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Cyanobacteria produce harmful toxins that have been associated with several acute conditions and chronic human diseases, like gastroenteritis, non-alcoholic liver disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Aerosol from waterbodies appears to be a likely mechanism for exposure. We conducted a study of human biospecimens focused on the cyanobacterial aerosilization process by evaluating the extent to which cyanobacteria can invade the human respiratory tract. Our study suggests that humans routinely inhale aerosolized cyanobacteria, which can be harbored in the nostrils and the lungs. Using PCR, cyanobacteria were found at high frequencies in the upper respiratory tract (92.20%) and central airway (79.31%) of our study subjects. Nasal swabs were not predictive of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) when detecting inhaled cyanobacteria. Interestingly, we found no evidence that time of year was a significant factor for cyanobacteria positivity (BAL cytology p = 1.0 and PCR p = 1.0); (nasal swab cytology p = 0.051 and PCR p = 0.65). Additionally, we found that proximity to a waterbody was not a significant factor for cyanobacteria positivity in BAL and nasal swabs collected during cyanobacteria bloom season [May-October] (p = 0.46 and p = 0.38). These data suggest that cyanobacteria exposure may be a prevalent and chronic phenomenon not necessarily restricted to waterbodies alone. Sources of indoor exposure warrant future investigation. Given the widespread prevalence of cyanobacterial exposure in the airway, investigation of the aerosol spread of cyanotoxins, more specifically, is warranted. Our findings are consistent with the hypothesis that aerosol is a significant route for cyanobacteria exposure, and thus a likely route of transmission for cyanotoxin-associated human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic N Facciponte
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Neurology, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
| | - Matthew W Bough
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Neurology, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Darius Seidler
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Rope Ferry Rd., Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - James L Carroll
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Rope Ferry Rd., Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Alix Ashare
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Rope Ferry Rd., Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Angeline S Andrew
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Neurology, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Rope Ferry Rd., Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Gregory J Tsongalis
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Rope Ferry Rd., Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Louis J Vaickus
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Rope Ferry Rd., Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Patricia L Henegan
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Neurology, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Tanya H Butt
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Neurology, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Elijah W Stommel
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Neurology, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Rope Ferry Rd., Hanover, NH 03755, USA.
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21
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Pierce ES. How did Lou Gehrig get Lou Gehrig's disease? Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis in manure, soil, dirt, dust and grass and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (motor neurone disease) clusters in football, rugby and soccer players. Med Hypotheses 2018; 119:1-5. [PMID: 30122477 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2018.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
There are several suspected infectious causes of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or motor neurone disease including HIV-1 and species of Brucella, Cyanobacteria and Schistosoma. The increased rates and clusters of ALS in amateur and professional outdoor sports players including rugby, football and soccer players suggest a microorganism present in the grass, dirt and dust they play on and in may be a causative factor. The probable zoonosis Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) is heavily excreted in an infected domestic ruminant's feces or manure and is extensively distributed throughout the soil in countries where MAP infection of domestic livestock is longstanding. Like other zoonotic pathogens, MAP can be transmitted to humans by inhalation of aerosolized pathogen-contaminated soil, by direct contact of pathogen-contaminated grass, dirt and dust with mucus membranes lining the nose or mouth or through abrasions and cuts in the skin. Outdoor sports players may develop ALS after multiple oral, nasal or subcutaneous doses of MAP present in the dirt, dust and grass of their playing fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen S Pierce
- 13212 East Blossey Avenue, Spokane Valley, Washington 99216-2807, USA.
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22
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Main BJ, Bowling LC, Padula MP, Bishop DP, Mitrovic SM, Guillemin GJ, Rodgers KJ. Detection of the suspected neurotoxin β-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) in cyanobacterial blooms from multiple water bodies in Eastern Australia. HARMFUL ALGAE 2018; 74:10-18. [PMID: 29724339 DOI: 10.1016/j.hal.2018.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Revised: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The emerging toxin β-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) has been linked to the development of a number of neurodegenerative diseases in humans including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. BMAA has been found to be produced by a range of cyanobacteria, diatoms, and dinoflagellates worldwide, and is present in freshwater, saltwater, and terrestrial ecosystems. Surface scum samples were collected from waterways in rural and urban New South Wales, Australia and algal species identified. Reverse phase liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was used to analyse sixteen cyanobacterial scum for the presence of BMAA as well as its toxic structural isomer 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (2,4-DAB). BMAA was detected in ten of the samples analysed, and 2,4-DAB in all sixteen. The presence of these toxins in water used for agriculture raises concerns for public health and food security in Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan J Main
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Lee C Bowling
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia; DPI Water, NSW Department of Primary Industries, Menangle, NSW, 2568, Australia
| | - Matthew P Padula
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - David P Bishop
- Elemental Bio-imaging Facility, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Simon M Mitrovic
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Gilles J Guillemin
- MND Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Kenneth J Rodgers
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia.
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23
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Beri J, Kirkwood KI, Muddiman DC, Bereman MS. A novel integrated strategy for the detection and quantification of the neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine in environmental samples. Anal Bioanal Chem 2018; 410:2597-2605. [PMID: 29455280 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-018-0930-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Revised: 01/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
We describe a set of new tools for the detection and quantification of β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) which includes a novel stable isotope-labeled BMAA standard (13C3,15N2) and a chip-based capillary electrophoresis mass spectrometry platform for separation and detection. Baseline resolution of BMAA from its potentially confounding structural isomers N-2-aminoethylglycine (AEG) and 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (2,4-DAB) is achieved using the chip-based CE-MS system in less than 1 min. Detection and linearity of response are demonstrated across > 3.5 orders of dynamic range using parallel reaction monitoring (PRM). The lower limit of detection and quantification were calculated for BMAA detection at 40 nM (4.8 ng/mL) and 400 nM (48 ng/mL), respectively. Finally, the strategy was applied to detect BMAA in seafood samples purchased at a local market in Raleigh, NC where their harvest location was known. BMAA was detected in a sea scallop sample. Because the BMAA/stable isotope-labeled 13C3,15N2-BMAA (SIL-BMAA) ratio in the scallop sample was below the limit of quantification, a semiquantitative analysis of BMAA content was carried out, and BMAA content was estimated to be approximately 820 ng BMAA/1 g of wet scallop tissue. Identification was verified by high mass measurement accuracy of precursor (< 5 ppm) and product ions (< 10 ppm), comigration with SIL-BMAA spike-in standard, and conservation of ion abundance ratios for product ions between BMAA and SIL-BMAA. Interestingly, BMAA was not identified in the free protein fraction but only detected after protein hydrolysis which suggests that BMAA is tightly bound by and/or incorporated into proteins. Graphical abstract Utilization of novel 13C3,15N2-BMAA and chip-based CE-MS/MS for detection and quantification of BMAA in environmental samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Beri
- Department of Chemistry, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Kaylie I Kirkwood
- Department of Chemistry, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - David C Muddiman
- Department of Chemistry, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Michael S Bereman
- Department of Chemistry, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA.
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA.
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA.
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24
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Downing S, Scott LL, Zguna N, Downing TG. Human Scalp Hair as an Indicator of Exposure to the Environmental Toxin β-N-Methylamino-l-alanine. Toxins (Basel) 2017; 10:E14. [PMID: 29280954 PMCID: PMC5793101 DOI: 10.3390/toxins10010014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Revised: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dietary or aerosol exposure to the environmental neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) is a putative risk factor for the development of sporadic neurodegenerative disease. There are many potential sources of BMAA in the environment, but BMAA presence and quantities are highly variable. It has been suggested that BMAA in human hair may serve as an indicator of exposure. We sought to evaluate the use of the BMAA content of human scalp hair as an indicator of exposure, as well as the correlation between specific lifestyle or dietary habits, reported as hypothesised exposure risk factors, and BMAA in hair. Scalp hair samples and questionnaires were collected from participants in a small residential village surrounding a freshwater impoundment renowned for toxic cyanobacterial blooms. Data suggested a positive correlation between hair BMAA content and consumption of shellfish, and possibly pork. No statistically significant correlations were observed between hair BMAA content and residential proximity to the water or any other variable. Hair BMAA content was highly variable, and in terms of exposure, probably reflects primarily dietary exposure. However, the BMAA content of human hair may be affected to a great extent by several other factors, and as such, should be used with caution when evaluating human BMAA exposure, or correlating exposure to neurodegenerative disease incidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simoné Downing
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Nelson Mandela University, P.O. Box 77 000, Port Elizabeth 6031, South Africa.
| | - Laura Louise Scott
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Nelson Mandela University, P.O. Box 77 000, Port Elizabeth 6031, South Africa.
| | - Nadezda Zguna
- Unit for Analytical Chemistry, Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry, Stockholm University, SE 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Timothy Grant Downing
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Nelson Mandela University, P.O. Box 77 000, Port Elizabeth 6031, South Africa.
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25
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Investigating β-N-Methylamino-l-alanine Misincorporation in Human Cell Cultures: A Comparative Study with Known Amino Acid Analogues. Toxins (Basel) 2017; 9:toxins9120400. [PMID: 29240689 PMCID: PMC5744120 DOI: 10.3390/toxins9120400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 12/12/2017] [Accepted: 12/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Misincorporation of β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) into proteins has been proposed to be a mechanism of toxicity to explain the role of BMAA in neurodegenerative disease development. However, studies have shown that all detectable BMAA can be removed from proteins by SDS-PAGE purification and that the toxicity of l-canavanine cannot be reproduced in prokaryotes or in a rat pheochromocytoma cell line, strongly indicating that the misincorporation hypothesis of BMAA should be re-investigated. The aim of this study was therefore to determine if BMAA misincorporates into proteins in cells of human origin with subsequent misincorporation-type toxicity. Almost complete loss of viability in response to exposure to l-4-fluorophenylalanine and l-m-tyrosine was observed in all of the cell lines, corresponding to a concentration-dependent increase of the analogues in protein extracts from exposed cells. In contrast, BMAA exposure resulted in slight toxicity in one of the cell lines but the observed toxicity was not the result of misincorporation of BMAA into proteins, as no BMAA was detected in any of the SDS-PAGE purified protein extracts that were obtained from the cells following BMAA exposure. The results show that BMAA is not misincorporated into human proteins and that misincorporation is not a valid mechanism of toxicity.
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26
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Shiraiwa M, Ueda K, Pozzer A, Lammel G, Kampf CJ, Fushimi A, Enami S, Arangio AM, Fröhlich-Nowoisky J, Fujitani Y, Furuyama A, Lakey PSJ, Lelieveld J, Lucas K, Morino Y, Pöschl U, Takahama S, Takami A, Tong H, Weber B, Yoshino A, Sato K. Aerosol Health Effects from Molecular to Global Scales. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:13545-13567. [PMID: 29111690 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b04417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 208] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Poor air quality is globally the largest environmental health risk. Epidemiological studies have uncovered clear relationships of gaseous pollutants and particulate matter (PM) with adverse health outcomes, including mortality by cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Studies of health impacts by aerosols are highly multidisciplinary with a broad range of scales in space and time. We assess recent advances and future challenges regarding aerosol effects on health from molecular to global scales through epidemiological studies, field measurements, health-related properties of PM, and multiphase interactions of oxidants and PM upon respiratory deposition. Global modeling combined with epidemiological exposure-response functions indicates that ambient air pollution causes more than four million premature deaths per year. Epidemiological studies usually refer to PM mass concentrations, but some health effects may relate to specific constituents such as bioaerosols, polycyclic aromatic compounds, and transition metals. Various analytical techniques and cellular and molecular assays are applied to assess the redox activity of PM and the formation of reactive oxygen species. Multiphase chemical interactions of lung antioxidants with atmospheric pollutants are crucial to the mechanistic and molecular understanding of oxidative stress upon respiratory deposition. The role of distinct PM components in health impacts and mortality needs to be clarified by integrated research on various spatiotemporal scales for better evaluation and mitigation of aerosol effects on public health in the Anthropocene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manabu Shiraiwa
- Department of Chemistry, University of California , Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | - Kayo Ueda
- Kyoto University , Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | | | - Gerhard Lammel
- Research Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment, Masaryk University , 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Christopher J Kampf
- Institute for Organic Chemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University , 55122 Mainz, Germany
| | - Akihiro Fushimi
- National Institute for Environmental Studies , Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | - Shinichi Enami
- National Institute for Environmental Studies , Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | - Andrea M Arangio
- Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) , Lausanne 1015, Switzerland
| | | | - Yuji Fujitani
- National Institute for Environmental Studies , Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | - Akiko Furuyama
- National Institute for Environmental Studies , Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | - Pascale S J Lakey
- Department of Chemistry, University of California , Irvine, California 92697, United States
| | | | | | - Yu Morino
- National Institute for Environmental Studies , Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | | | - Satoshi Takahama
- Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) , Lausanne 1015, Switzerland
| | - Akinori Takami
- National Institute for Environmental Studies , Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | | | | | - Ayako Yoshino
- National Institute for Environmental Studies , Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | - Kei Sato
- National Institute for Environmental Studies , Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
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27
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Torbick N, Ziniti B, Stommel E, Linder E, Andrew A, Caller T, Haney J, Bradley W, Henegan PL, Shi X. Assessing Cyanobacterial Harmful Algal Blooms as Risk Factors for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Neurotox Res 2017; 33:199-212. [PMID: 28470570 PMCID: PMC5727154 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-017-9740-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2017] [Revised: 04/16/2017] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Reoccurring seasonal cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (CHABs) persist in many waters, and recent work has shown links between CHAB and elevated risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Quantifying the exposure levels of CHAB as a potential risk factor for ALS is complicated by human mobility, potential pathways, and data availability. In this work, we develop phycocyanin concentration (i.e., CHAB exposure) maps using satellite remote sensing across northern New England to assess relationships with ALS cases using a spatial epidemiological approach. Strategic semi-analytical regression models integrated Landsat and in situ observations to map phycocyanin concentration (PC) for all lakes greater than 8 ha (n = 4117) across the region. Then, systematic versions of a Bayesian Poisson Log-linear model were fit to assess the mapped PC as a risk factor for ALS while accounting for model uncertainty and modifiable area unit problems. The satellite remote sensing of PC had strong overall ability to map conditions (adj. R2, 0.86; RMSE, 11.92) and spatial variability across the region. PC tended to be positively associated with ALS risk with the level of significance depending on fixed model components. Meta-analysis shows that when average PC exposure is 100 μg/L, an all model average odds ratio is 1.48, meaning there is about a 48% increase in average ALS risk. This research generated the first regionally comprehensive map of PC for thousands of lakes and integrated robust spatial uncertainty. The outcomes support the hypothesis that cyanotoxins increase the risk of ALS, which helps our understanding of the etiology of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Torbick
- Applied Geosolutions, 55 Main St, Suite 125, Newmarket, NH, 03857, USA. .,Department of Neurology, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA.
| | - Beth Ziniti
- Applied Geosolutions, 55 Main St, Suite 125, Newmarket, NH, 03857, USA
| | - Elijah Stommel
- Department of Neurology, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Ernst Linder
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, USA
| | | | - Tracie Caller
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Jim Haney
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, USA
| | - Walter Bradley
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | | | - Xun Shi
- Department of Geography, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
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28
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Laugeray A, Oummadi A, Jourdain C, Feat J, Meyer-Dilhet G, Menuet A, Plé K, Gay M, Routier S, Mortaud S, Guillemin GJ. Perinatal Exposure to the Cyanotoxin β-N-Méthylamino-L-Alanine (BMAA) Results in Long-Lasting Behavioral Changes in Offspring-Potential Involvement of DNA Damage and Oxidative Stress. Neurotox Res 2017; 33:87-112. [PMID: 28879461 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-017-9802-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 08/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
We recently demonstrated that perinatal exposure to the glutamate-related herbicide, glufosinate ammonium, has deleterious effects on neural stem cell (NSC) homeostasis within the sub-ventricular zone (SVZ), probably leading to ASD-like symptoms in offspring later in life. In the present study, we aimed to investigate whether perinatal exposure to another glutamate-related toxicant, the cyanobacterial amino acid β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA), might also trigger neurodevelopmental disturbances. With this aim, female mice were intranasally exposed to low doses of BMAA, 50 mg kg-1 three times a week from embryonic days 7-10 to postnatal day 21. Behavioral analyses were performed during the offspring's early life and during adulthood. Developmental analyses revealed that perinatal exposure to BMAA hastened the appearance of some reflexes and communicative skills. BMAA-exposed offspring displayed sex-dependent changes in emotional cognition shortly after exposure. Later in life, the female offspring continued to express emotional defects and to display abnormal sociability, while males were less affected. To assess whether early exposure to BMAA had deleterious effects on NSC homeostasis, we exposed mice NSCs to 1 and 3 mM BMAA during 24 h. We found that BMAA-exposed NSCs produced high levels of ROS, highlighting the ability of BMAA to induce oxidative stress. We also showed that BMAA exposure increased the number of γH2AX/53BP1 foci per nucleus, suggesting that BMAA-induced DNA damage in NSCs. Collectively, this data strongly suggests that perinatal exposure to the cyanobacteria BMAA, even at low doses, results in neurobehavioral disturbances during both the postnatal period and adulthood. This is considered to be underpinned at the cellular level through dysregulation of NSC homeostasis in the developing brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Laugeray
- Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics (INEM), UMR 7355, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 3b, rue de la Férollerie, 45071, Orléans, France. .,University of Orléans, Orléans, France.
| | | | | | - Justyne Feat
- Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics (INEM), UMR 7355, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 3b, rue de la Férollerie, 45071, Orléans, France
| | - Géraldine Meyer-Dilhet
- Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics (INEM), UMR 7355, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 3b, rue de la Férollerie, 45071, Orléans, France
| | - Arnaud Menuet
- Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics (INEM), UMR 7355, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 3b, rue de la Férollerie, 45071, Orléans, France.,University of Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - Karen Plé
- University of Orléans, Orléans, France.,Institute de Chimie Organique et Analytique, UMR 7311, Center National de la Recherche Scientifique, Orléans, France
| | - Marion Gay
- University of Orléans, Orléans, France.,Institute de Chimie Organique et Analytique, UMR 7311, Center National de la Recherche Scientifique, Orléans, France
| | - Sylvain Routier
- University of Orléans, Orléans, France.,Institute de Chimie Organique et Analytique, UMR 7311, Center National de la Recherche Scientifique, Orléans, France
| | - Stéphane Mortaud
- Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics (INEM), UMR 7355, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 3b, rue de la Férollerie, 45071, Orléans, France. .,University of Orléans, Orléans, France.
| | - Gilles J Guillemin
- Neuroinflammation Group, MND and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Center, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia.
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29
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Chernoff N, Hill DJ, Diggs DL, Faison BD, Francis BM, Lang JR, Larue MM, Le TT, Loftin KA, Lugo JN, Schmid JE, Winnik WM. A critical review of the postulated role of the non-essential amino acid, β-N-methylamino-L-alanine, in neurodegenerative disease in humans. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2017; 20:1-47. [PMID: 28598725 PMCID: PMC6503681 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2017.1297592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The compound BMAA (β-N-methylamino-L-alanine) has been postulated to play a significant role in four serious neurological human diseases: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/Parkinsonism Dementia Complex (ALS/PDC) found on Guam, and ALS, Parkinsonism, and dementia that occur globally. ALS/PDC with symptoms of all three diseases first came to the attention of the scientific community during and after World War II. It was initially associated with cycad flour used for food because BMAA is a product of symbiotic cycad root-dwelling cyanobacteria. Human consumption of flying foxes that fed on cycad seeds was later suggested as a source of BMAA on Guam and a cause of ALS/PDC. Subsequently, the hypothesis was expanded to include a causative role for BMAA in other neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease (AD) through exposures attributed to proximity to freshwaters and/or consumption of seafood due to its purported production by most species of cyanobacteria. The hypothesis that BMAA is the critical factor in the genesis of these neurodegenerative diseases received considerable attention in the medical, scientific, and public arenas. This review examines the history of ALS/PDC and the BMAA-human disease hypotheses; similarities and differences between ALS/PDC and the other diseases with similar symptomologies; the relationship of ALS/PDC to other similar diseases, studies of BMAA-mediated effects in lab animals, inconsistencies and data gaps in the hypothesis; and other compounds and agents that were suggested as the cause of ALS/PDC on Guam. The review concludes that the hypothesis of a causal BMAA neurodegenerative disease relationship is not supported by existing data.
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Affiliation(s)
- N. Chernoff
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - D. J. Hill
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - D. L. Diggs
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education Internship/Research Participation Program at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, NHEERL, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - B. D. Faison
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Water, Office of Science and Technology, Washington, DC, USA
| | - B. M. Francis
- Department of Entomology, University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana, IL, USA
| | - J. R Lang
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education Internship/Research Participation Program at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, NHEERL, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - M. M. Larue
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education Internship/Research Participation Program at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, NHEERL, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - T.-T. Le
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education Internship/Research Participation Program at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, NHEERL, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | - J. N. Lugo
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
| | - J. E. Schmid
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - W. M. Winnik
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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30
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Cox PA, Kostrzewa RM, Guillemin GJ. BMAA and Neurodegenerative Illness. Neurotox Res 2017; 33:178-183. [PMID: 28540663 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-017-9753-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The cyanobacterial toxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) now appears to be a cause of Guamanian amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/parkinsonism dementia complex (ALS/PDC). Its production by cyanobacteria throughout the world combined with multiple mechanisms of BMAA neurotoxicity, particularly to vulnerable subpopulations of motor neurons, has significantly increased interest in investigating exposure to this non-protein amino acid as a possible risk factor for other forms of neurodegenerative illness. We here provide a brief overview of BMAA studies and provide an introduction to this collection of scientific manuscripts in this special issue on BMAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Alan Cox
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, PO Box 3464, Jackson Hole, WY, 83001, USA.
| | - Richard M Kostrzewa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, PO Box 70577, Johnson City, TN, 37614, USA
| | - Gilles J Guillemin
- Macquarie University, MND Research Centre, FMHS, 2 Technology Place, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
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31
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Bradley WG, Miller RX, Levine TD, Stommel EW, Cox PA. Studies of Environmental Risk Factors in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and a Phase I Clinical Trial of l-Serine. Neurotox Res 2017; 33:192-198. [DOI: 10.1007/s12640-017-9741-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Revised: 03/25/2017] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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32
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Michaelson N, Facciponte D, Bradley W, Stommel E. Cytokine expression levels in ALS: A potential link between inflammation and BMAA-triggered protein misfolding. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2017; 37:81-88. [PMID: 28532674 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2017.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 05/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Recently, it has been shown that proinflammatory cytokines play a complex and important role in the pathogenesis of many neurological disorders, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). To help facilitate future discoveries and more effective treatment strategies, we highlight the role that both innate and adaptive immune systems play in ALS and summarize the main observations that relate to cytokine expression levels in this disease. Furthermore, we propose a mechanism by which a known neurotoxin, β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA), may trigger this cytokine expression profile through motor neuron protein misfolding and subsequent NLRP3 (nucleotide-binding domain (NOD)-like receptor protein 3) inflammasome activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nara Michaelson
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA.
| | | | - Walter Bradley
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Elijah Stommel
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
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Pardo M, Katra I, Schaeur JJ, Rudich Y. Mitochondria-mediated oxidative stress induced by desert dust in rat alveolar macrophages. GEOHEALTH 2017; 1:4-16. [PMID: 32158977 PMCID: PMC7007135 DOI: 10.1002/2016gh000017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Revised: 12/25/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to ambient particulate matter (PM), including PM from resuspension of soils and dusts, increases the risk for respiratory diseases. However, the exact mechanism of PM-mediated damage to the lungs remains unclear. Due to recent increases in the frequency of dust storms in many areas, we examined the cytotoxic effects of soil-dust samples collected in an arid zone in Israel on rat lung macrophages. The desert soil contains soil crusts and low levels of toxic metal content. Exposure of cells to water extracts from the dust samples caused significant reduction in the concentration of live cells and overall cell viability. The dust samples induced cell death through apoptosis, mitochondrial dysfunction, and increased mitochondrial lipid peroxidation. The dust samples generated more reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared to control-treated samples and National Institute of Standards and Technology San Joaquin Valley standard reference material. To assess whether the oxidative imbalance induced by dust extract also interferes with the antioxidant defense, we evaluated phase II detoxifying and antioxidant enzymes, which are Nrf2 classical targets. The Nrf2 transcription factor is a master regulator of cellular adaptation to stress. The dust extracts produced a significant increase in phase II detoxifying genes. This work suggests that the health-related injury observed in rat lung cells exposed to dust extracts is associated with ROS generation, mitochondrial dysfunction, mitochondrial lipid peroxidation, and cellular antioxidant imbalance. Damage to lung mitochondria may be an important mechanism by which dust-containing bacterial material induces lung injury upon inhalation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Pardo
- Department of Earth and Planetary SciencesWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | - Itzhak Katra
- Department of Geography and Environmental DevelopmentBen‐Gurion University of the NegevBeershebaIsrael
| | - James J. Schaeur
- Environmental Chemistry and Technology ProgramUniversity of Wisconsin‐MadisonMadisonWisconsinUSA
| | - Yinon Rudich
- Department of Earth and Planetary SciencesWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
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Andrew AS, Caller TA, Tandan R, Duell EJ, Henegan PL, Field NC, Bradley WG, Stommel EW. Environmental and Occupational Exposures and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in New England. NEURODEGENER DIS 2017; 17:110-116. [PMID: 28122372 DOI: 10.1159/000453359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent data provide support for the concept that potentially modifiable exposures are responsible for sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). OBJECTIVE To evaluate environmental and occupational exposures as risk factors for sporadic ALS. METHODS We performed a case-control study of ALS among residents of New England, USA. The analysis compared questionnaire responses from 295 patients with a confirmed ALS diagnosis to those of 225 controls without neurodegenerative illness. RESULTS Self-reported job- or hobby-related exposure to one or more chemicals, such as pesticides, solvents, or heavy metals, increased the risk of ALS (adjusted OR 2.51; 95% CI 1.64-3.89). Industries with a higher toxicant exposure potential (construction, manufacturing, mechanical, military, or painting) were associated with an elevated occupational risk (adjusted OR 3.95; 95% CI 2.04-8.30). We also identified increases in the risk of ALS associated with frequent participation in water sports, particularly waterskiing (adjusted OR 3.89; 95% CI 1.97-8.44). Occupation and waterskiing both retained independent statistical significance in a composite model containing age, gender, and smoking status. CONCLUSIONS Our study contributes to a growing body of literature implicating occupational- and hobby-related toxicant exposures in ALS etiology. These epidemiologic study results also provide motivation for future evaluation of water-body-related risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angeline S Andrew
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
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Novak M, Hercog K, Žegura B. Assessment of the mutagenic and genotoxic activity of cyanobacterial toxin beta-N-methyl-amino-L-alanine in Salmonella typhimurium. Toxicon 2016; 118:134-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2016.04.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Revised: 04/27/2016] [Accepted: 04/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Chatziefthimiou AD, Metcalf JS, Glover WB, Banack SA, Dargham SR, Richer RA. Cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins are present in drinking water impoundments and groundwater wells in desert environments. Toxicon 2016; 114:75-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2016.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2015] [Revised: 02/11/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Réveillon D, Séchet V, Hess P, Amzil Z. Systematic detection of BMAA (β-N-methylamino-l-alanine) and DAB (2,4-diaminobutyric acid) in mollusks collected in shellfish production areas along the French coasts. Toxicon 2015; 110:35-46. [PMID: 26615827 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2015.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2015] [Revised: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) is naturally present in some microalgal species in the marine environment. The accumulation of BMAA has widely been observed in filter-feeding bivalves that are known to consume primary producers constituting the base of complex aquatic food webs. This study was performed to assess the occurrence of BMAA and isomers in mollusks collected from nine representative shellfish production areas located on the three French coasts (Channel, Atlantic and Mediterranean sites). The use of a highly selective and sensitive HILIC-MS/MS method, with D5DAB as internal standard, revealed the systematic detection of BMAA and DAB, in concentrations ranging from 0.20 to 6.7 μg g(-1) dry weight of digestive gland tissues of mollusks. While we detected BMAA in four strains of diatoms in a previous study, here BMAA was only detected in one diatom species previously not investigated out of the 23 microalgal species examined (belonging to seven classes). The concentrations of BMAA and DAB in mussels and oysters were similar at different sampling locations and despite the high diversity of phytoplankton populations that mollusks feed on at these locations. Only small variations of BMAA and DAB levels were observed and these were not correlated to any of the phytoplankton species reported. Therefore, extensive research should be performed on both origin and metabolism of BMAA in shellfish. The levels observed in this study are similar to those found in other studies in France or elsewhere. A previous study had related such levels to a cluster of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in the South of France; hence the widespread occurrence of BMAA in shellfish from all coasts in France found in this study suggests the need for further epidemiological and toxicological studies to establish the levels that are relevant for a link between the consumption of BMAA-containing foodstuffs and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien Réveillon
- Ifremer, Laboratoire Phycotoxines, rue de l'Ile d'Yeu, BP 21105, F-44311 Nantes, France.
| | - Véronique Séchet
- Ifremer, Laboratoire Phycotoxines, rue de l'Ile d'Yeu, BP 21105, F-44311 Nantes, France
| | - Philipp Hess
- Ifremer, Laboratoire Phycotoxines, rue de l'Ile d'Yeu, BP 21105, F-44311 Nantes, France
| | - Zouher Amzil
- Ifremer, Laboratoire Phycotoxines, rue de l'Ile d'Yeu, BP 21105, F-44311 Nantes, France
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Main photoautotrophic components of biofilms in natural draft cooling towers. Folia Microbiol (Praha) 2015; 61:255-60. [PMID: 26508444 DOI: 10.1007/s12223-015-0429-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2015] [Accepted: 10/15/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
While photoautotrophic organisms are an important component of biofilms that live in certain regions of natural draft cooling towers, little is known about these communities. We therefore examined 18 towers at nine sites to identify the general patterns of community assembly in three distinct tower parts, and we examined how community structures differ depending on geography. We also compared the newly acquired data with previously published data. The bottom sections of draft cooling towers are mainly settled by large filamentous algae, primarily Cladophora glomerata. The central portions of towers host a small amount of planktic algae biomass originating in the cooling water. The upper fourths of towers are colonized by biofilms primarily dominated by cyanobacteria, e.g., members of the genera Gloeocapsa and Scytonema. A total of 41 taxa of phototrophic microorganisms were identified. Species composition of the upper fourth of all towers was significantly affected by cardinal position. There was different species composition at positions facing north compared to positions facing south. West- and east-facing positions were transitory and highly similar to each other in terms of species composition. Biofilms contribute to the degradation of paint coatings inside towers.
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Bradley WG. The John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre in the University of Newcastle and the BMAA Theory of Motor Neuron Disease. J Neuromuscul Dis 2015; 2:S77-S81. [PMID: 27858760 PMCID: PMC5271429 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-150090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Walter G. Bradley
- Correspondence to: Walter G. Bradley, Professor and Chairman Emeritus, Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, USA. Tel.: +305 215 2144; Fax: +305 964 5336;
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Banack SA, Caller T, Henegan P, Haney J, Murby A, Metcalf JS, Powell J, Cox PA, Stommel E. Detection of cyanotoxins, β-N-methylamino-L-alanine and microcystins, from a lake surrounded by cases of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Toxins (Basel) 2015; 7:322-36. [PMID: 25643180 PMCID: PMC4344626 DOI: 10.3390/toxins7020322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2014] [Revised: 12/12/2014] [Accepted: 01/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A cluster of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) has been previously described to border Lake Mascoma in Enfield, NH, with an incidence of ALS approximating 25 times expected. We hypothesize a possible association with cyanobacterial blooms that can produce β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA), a neurotoxic amino acid implicated as a possible cause of ALS/PDC in Guam. Muscle, liver, and brain tissue samples from a Lake Mascoma carp, as well as filtered aerosol samples, were analyzed for microcystins (MC), free and protein-bound BMAA, and the BMAA isomers 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB) and N-(2-aminoethyl)glycine (AEG). In carp brain, BMAA and DAB concentrations were 0.043 μg/g ± 0.02 SD and 0.01 μg/g ± 0.002 SD respectively. In carp liver and muscle, the BMAA concentrations were 1.28 μg/g and 1.27 μg/g respectively, and DAB was not detected. BMAA was detected in the air filters, as were the isomers DAB and AEG. These results demonstrate that a putative cause for ALS, BMAA, exists in an environment that has a documented cluster of ALS. Although cause and effect have not been demonstrated, our observations and measurements strengthen the association.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tracie Caller
- Cheyenne Regional Medical Group, Cheyenne, WY 82001, USA.
| | - Patricia Henegan
- Department of Neurology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
| | - James Haney
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824, USA.
| | - Amanda Murby
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824, USA.
| | - James S Metcalf
- Institute for Ethnomedicine, PO Box 3464, Jackson, WY 83001, USA.
| | - James Powell
- Institute for Ethnomedicine, PO Box 3464, Jackson, WY 83001, USA.
| | - Paul Alan Cox
- Institute for Ethnomedicine, PO Box 3464, Jackson, WY 83001, USA.
| | - Elijah Stommel
- Department of Neurology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
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Delzor A, Couratier P, Boumédiène F, Nicol M, Druet-Cabanac M, Paraf F, Méjean A, Ploux O, Leleu JP, Brient L, Lengronne M, Pichon V, Combès A, El Abdellaoui S, Bonneterre V, Lagrange E, Besson G, Bicout DJ, Boutonnat J, Camu W, Pageot N, Juntas-Morales R, Rigau V, Masseret E, Abadie E, Preux PM, Marin B. Searching for a link between the L-BMAA neurotoxin and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a study protocol of the French BMAALS programme. BMJ Open 2014; 4:e005528. [PMID: 25180055 PMCID: PMC4156816 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2014-005528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common motor neurone disease. It occurs in two forms: (1) familial cases, for which several genes have been identified and (2) sporadic cases, for which various hypotheses have been formulated. Notably, the β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (L-BMAA) toxin has been postulated to be involved in the occurrence of sporadic ALS. The objective of the French BMAALS programme is to study the putative link between L-BMAA and ALS. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The programme covers the period from 1 January 2003 to 31 December 2011. Using multiple sources of ascertainment, all the incident ALS cases diagnosed during this period in the area under study (10 counties spread over three French regions) were collected. First, the standardised incidence ratio will be calculated for each municipality under concern. Then, by applying spatial clustering techniques, overincidence and underincidence zones of ALS will be sought. A case-control study, in the subpopulation living in the identified areas, will gather information about patients' occupations, leisure activities and lifestyle habits in order to assess potential risk factors to which they are or have been exposed. Specimens of drinking water, food and biological material (brain tissue) will be examined to assess the presence of L-BMAA in the environment and tissues of ALS cases and controls. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study has been reviewed and approved by the French ethical committee of the CPP SOOM IV (Comité de Protection des Personnes Sud-Ouest & Outre-Mer IV). The results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at national and international conferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Delzor
- Tropical Neuroepidemiology, INSERM UMR 1094, Limoges, France
- University of Limoges, School of Medicine, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, Centre national de la recherche scientifique FR 3503 GEIST, Limoges, France
| | - Philippe Couratier
- Tropical Neuroepidemiology, INSERM UMR 1094, Limoges, France
- University of Limoges, School of Medicine, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, Centre national de la recherche scientifique FR 3503 GEIST, Limoges, France
- Department of Neurology, ALS Center, University Hospital Dupuytren, Limoges, France
| | - Farid Boumédiène
- Tropical Neuroepidemiology, INSERM UMR 1094, Limoges, France
- University of Limoges, School of Medicine, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, Centre national de la recherche scientifique FR 3503 GEIST, Limoges, France
| | - Marie Nicol
- Tropical Neuroepidemiology, INSERM UMR 1094, Limoges, France
- University of Limoges, School of Medicine, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, Centre national de la recherche scientifique FR 3503 GEIST, Limoges, France
- Department of Neurology, ALS Center, University Hospital Dupuytren, Limoges, France
| | - Michel Druet-Cabanac
- Tropical Neuroepidemiology, INSERM UMR 1094, Limoges, France
- University of Limoges, School of Medicine, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, Centre national de la recherche scientifique FR 3503 GEIST, Limoges, France
- Department of Neurology, ALS Center, University Hospital Dupuytren, Limoges, France
| | - François Paraf
- Department of Neurology, ALS Center, University Hospital Dupuytren, Limoges, France
| | - Annick Méjean
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory for Tomorrow's Energy Pack (LIED), CNRS UMR 8236, University Paris Diderot-Paris 7, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Ploux
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory for Tomorrow's Energy Pack (LIED), CNRS UMR 8236, University Paris Diderot-Paris 7, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Philippe Leleu
- Tropical Neuroepidemiology, INSERM UMR 1094, Limoges, France
- University of Limoges, School of Medicine, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, Centre national de la recherche scientifique FR 3503 GEIST, Limoges, France
| | - Luc Brient
- UMR 6553 ECOBIO, Ecosystems—Biodiversity—Evolution, University Rennes I, Rennes, France
| | - Marion Lengronne
- UMR 6553 ECOBIO, Ecosystems—Biodiversity—Evolution, University Rennes I, Rennes, France
| | - Valérie Pichon
- Department of Analytical, Bioanalytical Sciences and Miniaturization (LSABM), UMR ESPCI-ParisTech-CNRS 8231 CBI, Paris, France
- University Sorbonne, University Pierre and Marie Curie (UPMC), Paris, France
| | - Audrey Combès
- Department of Analytical, Bioanalytical Sciences and Miniaturization (LSABM), UMR ESPCI-ParisTech-CNRS 8231 CBI, Paris, France
- University Sorbonne, University Pierre and Marie Curie (UPMC), Paris, France
| | - Saïda El Abdellaoui
- Department of Analytical, Bioanalytical Sciences and Miniaturization (LSABM), UMR ESPCI-ParisTech-CNRS 8231 CBI, Paris, France
- University Sorbonne, University Pierre and Marie Curie (UPMC), Paris, France
| | - Vincent Bonneterre
- Environment and Health Prediction in Populations (EPSP), CNRS-TIMC-IMAG UMR 5525 UJF-Grenoble 1, Grenoble, France
| | - Emmeline Lagrange
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Grenoble, Grenoble, France
| | - Gérard Besson
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Grenoble, Grenoble, France
| | - Dominique J Bicout
- Environment and Health Prediction in Populations (EPSP), CNRS-TIMC-IMAG UMR 5525 UJF-Grenoble 1, Grenoble, France
- Biomathematics and Epidemiology, Environment and Health Prediction in Populations (EPSP), VetAgro Sup, Marcy-l'Etoile, France
| | - Jean Boutonnat
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Grenoble, Grenoble, France
| | - William Camu
- Motoneuron Diseases: Neuroinflammation and Therapy, INSERM UMR 1051, Neurosciences Institute, Montpellier, France
- Department of Neurology, ALS Center, University Hospital Gui de Chauliac, Montpellier, France
| | - Nicolas Pageot
- Motoneuron Diseases: Neuroinflammation and Therapy, INSERM UMR 1051, Neurosciences Institute, Montpellier, France
- Department of Neurology, ALS Center, University Hospital Gui de Chauliac, Montpellier, France
| | - Raul Juntas-Morales
- Motoneuron Diseases: Neuroinflammation and Therapy, INSERM UMR 1051, Neurosciences Institute, Montpellier, France
- Department of Neurology, ALS Center, University Hospital Gui de Chauliac, Montpellier, France
| | - Valérie Rigau
- Motoneuron Diseases: Neuroinflammation and Therapy, INSERM UMR 1051, Neurosciences Institute, Montpellier, France
- Department of Neurology, ALS Center, University Hospital Gui de Chauliac, Montpellier, France
| | - Estelle Masseret
- UMR 5119 ECOSYM, Ecology of Coastal Marine Systems, UM2-CNRS-IRD-Ifremer-UM1, University Montpellier II, Montpellier, France
| | - Eric Abadie
- Environment Resources Laboratory/Languedoc-Roussillon, Ifremer, Sète, France
| | - Pierre-Marie Preux
- Tropical Neuroepidemiology, INSERM UMR 1094, Limoges, France
- University of Limoges, School of Medicine, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, Centre national de la recherche scientifique FR 3503 GEIST, Limoges, France
- Department of Neurology, ALS Center, University Hospital Dupuytren, Limoges, France
| | - Benoît Marin
- Tropical Neuroepidemiology, INSERM UMR 1094, Limoges, France
- University of Limoges, School of Medicine, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, Centre national de la recherche scientifique FR 3503 GEIST, Limoges, France
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Cyanobacterial toxin degrading bacteria: who are they? BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2013; 2013:463894. [PMID: 23841072 PMCID: PMC3690202 DOI: 10.1155/2013/463894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2013] [Accepted: 05/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Cyanobacteria are ubiquitous in nature and are both beneficial and detrimental to humans. Benefits include being food supplements and producing bioactive compounds, like antimicrobial and anticancer substances, while their detrimental effects are evident by toxin production, causing major ecological problems at the ecosystem level. To date, there are several ways to degrade or transform these toxins by chemical methods, while the biodegradation of these compounds is understudied. In this paper, we present a meta-analysis of the currently available 16S rRNA and mlrA (microcystinase) genes diversity of isolates known to degrade cyanobacterial toxins. The available data revealed that these bacteria belong primarily to the Proteobacteria, with several strains from the sphingomonads, and one from each of the Methylobacillus and Paucibacter genera. Other strains belonged to the genera Arthrobacter, Bacillus, and Lactobacillus. By combining the ecological knowledge on the distribution, abundance, and ecophysiology of the bacteria that cooccur with toxic cyanobacterial blooms and newly developed molecular approaches, it is possible not only to discover more strains with cyanobacterial toxin degradation abilities, but also to reveal the genes associated with the degradation of these toxins.
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Stipa G, Manganelli M, Lolli F. Cyanobacteria biomagnification and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Med Hypotheses 2013; 81:356-7. [PMID: 23673195 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2013.04.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2013] [Revised: 04/15/2013] [Accepted: 04/23/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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