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Smolińska K, Szopa A, Sobczyński J, Serefko A, Dobrowolski P. Nutritional Quality Implications: Exploring the Impact of a Fatty Acid-Rich Diet on Central Nervous System Development. Nutrients 2024; 16:1093. [PMID: 38613126 PMCID: PMC11013435 DOI: 10.3390/nu16071093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Given the comprehensive examination of the role of fatty acid-rich diets in central nervous system development in children, this study bridges significant gaps in the understanding of dietary effects on neurodevelopment. It delves into the essential functions of fatty acids in neurodevelopment, including their contributions to neuronal membrane formation, neuroinflammatory modulation, neurogenesis, and synaptic plasticity. Despite the acknowledged importance of these nutrients, this review reveals a lack of comprehensive synthesis in current research, particularly regarding the broader spectrum of fatty acids and their optimal levels throughout childhood. By consolidating the existing knowledge and highlighting critical research gaps, such as the effects of fatty acid metabolism on neurodevelopmental disorders and the need for age-specific dietary guidelines, this study sets a foundation for future studies. This underscores the potential of nutritional strategies to significantly influence neurodevelopmental trajectories, advocating an enriched academic and clinical understanding that can inform dietary recommendations and interventions aimed at optimizing neurological health from infancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Smolińska
- Chronic Wounds Laboratory, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki St. 7, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Aleksandra Szopa
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Care, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki St. 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.S.); (J.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Jan Sobczyński
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Care, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki St. 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.S.); (J.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Anna Serefko
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Care, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki St. 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.S.); (J.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Piotr Dobrowolski
- Department of Functional Anatomy and Cytobiology, Maria Curie Sklodowska University, Akademicka St. 19, 20-033 Lublin, Poland
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Ralston NVC, Raymond LJ, Gilman CL, Soon R, Seale LA, Berry MJ. Maternal seafood consumption is associated with improved selenium status: Implications for child health. Neurotoxicology 2024; 101:26-35. [PMID: 38272071 PMCID: PMC10978253 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2024.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Selenium (Se) is required for synthesis of selenocysteine (Sec), an amino acid expressed in the active sites of Se-dependent enzymes (selenoenzymes), including forms with essential functions in fetal development, brain activities, thyroid hormone metabolism, calcium regulation, and to prevent or reverse oxidative damage. Homeostatic mechanisms normally ensure the brain is preferentially supplied with Se to maintain selenoenzymes, but high methylmercury (CH3Hg) exposures irreversibly inhibit their activities and impair Sec synthesis. Due to Hg's high affinity for sulfur, CH3Hg initially binds with the cysteine (Cys) moieties of thiomolecules which are selenoenzyme substrates. These CH3Hg-Cys adducts enter selenoenzyme active sites and transfer CH3Hg to Sec, thus irreversibly inhibiting their activities. High CH3Hg exposures are uniquely able to induce a conditioned Se-deficiency that impairs synthesis of brain selenoenzymes. Since the fetal brain lacks Se reserves, it is far more vulnerable to CH3Hg exposures than adult brains. This prompted concerns that maternal exposures to CH3Hg present in seafood might impair child neurodevelopment. However, typical varieties of ocean fish contain far more Se than CH3Hg. Therefore, eating them should augment Se-status and thus prevent Hg-dependent loss of fetal selenoenzyme activities. To assess this hypothesis, umbilical cord blood and placental tissue samples were collected following delivery of a cohort of 100 babies born on Oahu, Hawaii. Dietary food frequency surveys of the mother's last month of pregnancy identified groups with no (0 g/wk), low (0-12 g/wk), or high (12 + g/wk) levels of ocean fish consumption. Maternal seafood consumption increased Hg contents in fetal tissues and resulted in ∼34% of cord blood samples exceeding the EPA Hg reference level of 5.8 ppb (0.029 µM). However, Se concentrations in these tissues were orders of magnitude higher and ocean fish consumption caused cord blood Se to increase ∼9.4 times faster than Hg. Therefore, this study supports the hypothesis that maternal consumption of typical varieties of ocean fish provides substantial amounts of Se that protect against Hg-dependent losses in Se bioavailability. Recognizing the pivotal nature of the Hg:Se relationship provides a consilient perspective of seafood benefits vs. risks and clarifies the reasons for the contrasting findings of certain early studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura J Raymond
- Sage Green Nutrition Research Guidance, Grand Forks, ND, 58203, USA
| | - Christy L Gilman
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Reni Soon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
| | - Lucia A Seale
- Pacific Biosciences Research Center, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| | - Marla J Berry
- Pacific Biosciences Research Center, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
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De la Ossa CA, Ramírez-Giraldo AF, Arroyo-Alvis K, Marrugo-Negrete J, Díez S. Neuropsychological effects and cognitive deficits associated with exposure to mercury and arsenic in children and adolescents of the Mojana region, Colombia. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 216:114467. [PMID: 36265603 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.114467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The present study aims to explore the neuropsychological performance and exposure to mercury (Hg) and arsenic (As) in Colombian children and adolescents considering biomarkers in hair and blood. The total sample consisted of 70 participants from the Mojana region, Colombia. A neuropsychological evaluation protocol was used, consisting of 11 internationally recognized tests, with evidence of national validation and use for measurement in neurotoxicology contexts. A 57.1% of the sample presented levels above the reference value according to the USEPA, the WHO, and the ATSDR for total mercury in hair (HgH), blood mercury (HgB), and/or blood arsenic (AsB). The mean values reported for HgH were 1.76 ± 3.1 μg/g (95% CI 1.02-2.50) with ranges between 0.23 and 17.20; for HgB: 4.11 ± 5.93 μg/l (CI 2.69-5.52), ranging between 0.25 and 25.80, and for AsB: 1.96 ± 2.73 (CI 1.31-2.61) ranging between 0.50 and 15.50. In the comparison of groups in relation to the level of exposure, a significant difference was found (p < 0.05) for the subtest The Boston Naming Test (BNT). Correlation analyses found, on the one hand, significant negative relationships in tests integrated within the verbal (CVB) and executive function (EF) components as well as evidence of positive relationships in the manifestation of errors in their performance with the levels of Hg and/or As transformed by biomarker (Log10). In the linear regression analyses it was found that for each increase in the concentration of HgH, HgB, and AsB it is estimated that, both for the models with and without data adjustment, there is a loss of scores in integrated measures within the CVB and EF for the transformed levels of HgH, HgB, and AsB; and an increase in the reported errors in their processing within these functions. According to these results, exposure to mercury and/or arsenic is related with performance in verbal neuropsychological skills and executive functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Sergi Díez
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research, IDAEA-CSIC, E-08034, Barcelona, Spain.
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Kendricks DR, Bhattacharya S, Reed MN, Newland MC. Impacts of Neonatal Methylmercury on Behavioral Flexibility and Learning in Spatial Discrimination Reversal and Visual Signal Detection Tasks. Neurotoxicology 2022; 93:9-21. [PMID: 36055519 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2022.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Early postnatal development in rodents is sensitive to neurotoxic effects of the environmental contaminant, methylmercury. While juvenile and adolescent exposure also produce long-term impairments in behavior, the outcome of neonatal exposure is less understood. Neural development during the neonatal period in rodents is akin to that seen in humans during the third trimester of pregnancy but methylmercury exposure occurring during the neonatal period has not been modeled, partly because breast milk is a poor source of bioavailable methylmercury. To examine this developmental period, male Long-Evans rats were exposed to 0, 80, or 350µg/kg/day methylmercuric chloride from postnatal days 1 to 10, the rodent neonatal period. As adults, behavioral flexibility, attention, memory, and expression of the dopamine transporter in these rats was assessed. Rats exhibited changes in behavioral flexibility assessed in a spatial discrimination reversal procedure. Those rats exposed to the highest dose of methylmercury displayed subtly altered patterns of perseveration compared to control animals. During acquisition of the attention/memory procedure, rats exposed to this dose also had slower acquisition, and achieved lower overall accuracy during training, compared to controls despite neither attention nor memory being affected once the task was acquired. Finally, dopamine transporter expression in the striatum, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus was unchanged in these adult rats. The results of this study replicate the trend of findings seen with exposure during gestation or during adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalisa R Kendricks
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Subhrajit Bhattacharya
- Keck Graduate Institute, School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Claremont Colleges, Claremont, CA, USA
| | - Miranda N Reed
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA; Center for Neuroscience Initiative, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
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Migneron-Foisy V, Muckle G, Jacobson JL, Ayotte P, Jacobson SW, Saint-Amour D. Impact of chronic exposure to legacy environmental contaminants on the corpus callosum microstructure: A diffusion MRI study of Inuit adolescents. Neurotoxicology 2022; 92:200-211. [PMID: 35995272 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2022.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to environmental contaminants is an important public health concern for the Inuit population of northern Québec, who have been exposed to mercury (Hg), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and lead (Pb). During the last 25 years, the Nunavik Child Development Study (NCDS) birth cohort has reported adverse associations between these exposures and brain function outcomes. In the current study, we aimed to determine whether contaminant exposure is associated with alterations of the corpus callosum (CC), which plays an important role in various cognitive, motor and sensory function processes. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was administered to 89 NCDS participants (mean age ± SD = 18.4 ± 1.2). Diffusion-weighted imaging was assessed to characterize the microstructure of the CC white matter in 7 structurally and functionally distinct regions of interest (ROIs) using a tractography-based segmentation approach. The following metrics were computed: fiber tract density, fractional anisotropy (FA), axial diffusivity (AD) and radial diffusivity (RD). Multiple linear regression models adjusted for sex, age, current alcohol/drug use and fish nutrients (omega-3 fatty acids and selenium) were conducted to assess the association between diffusion-weighted imaging metrics and Hg, PCB 153 and Pb concentrations obtained at birth in the cord blood and postnatally (mean values from blood samples at 11 and 18 years of age). Exposures were not associated with fiber tract density. Nor were significant associations found with cord and postnatal blood Pb concentrations for FA. However, pre- and postnatal Hg and PCB concentrations were significantly associated with higher FA of several regions of the CC, namely anterior midbody, posterior midbody, isthmus, and splenium, with the most pronounced effects observed in the splenium. FA results were mainly associated with lower RD. This study shows that exposure to Hg and PCB 153 alters the posterior microstructure of the CC, providing neuroimaging evidence of how developmental exposure to environmental chemicals can impair brain function and behavior in late adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Migneron-Foisy
- Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Sainte-Justine University Hospital Research Center, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Gina Muckle
- School of Psychology, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada; Centre de Recherche du CHUQ de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Joseph L Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Pierre Ayotte
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Sandra W Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Dave Saint-Amour
- Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Sainte-Justine University Hospital Research Center, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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Thurston SW, Myers G, Mruzek D, Harrington D, Adams H, Shamlaye C, van Wijngaarden E. Associations between time-weighted postnatal methylmercury exposure from fish consumption and neurodevelopmental outcomes through 24 years of age in the Seychelles Child Development Study Main Cohort. Neurotoxicology 2022; 91:234-244. [PMID: 35643326 PMCID: PMC9749799 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2022.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Methylmercury (MeHg) is a known neurodevelopmental toxicant in sufficient dosage and is universally found in fish. Current fish advisories for children are based on epidemiology studies examining prenatal exposure with a premise that MeHg exposure resulting from children eating fish could also be neurotoxic and have long-term consequences. However, the evidence that this assumption is true is limited. We investigated postnatal MeHg exposure from regular fish consumption using time weighted Hg measurements to determine if there are neurotoxic consequences. METHODS We examined 85 neurodevelopmental outcomes measured from ages 9-24 years in the Seychelles Child Development Study Main Cohort (n = 312-550) and examined their association with time-weighted measures of postnatal MeHg exposure in childhood and early adulthood. Postnatal MeHg exposure measured in the first cm of participants' hair samples collected at seven evaluations were used to create two time-weighted (TW) average MeHg exposure metrics, one for childhood (TW-C) and the other for early adulthood (TW-A). TW-C was based on Hg measures at three ages between 6 months and 5.5 years, and TW-A was based on Hg measured at up to four ages between 17 and 24 years. We examined the association between each of these exposure metrics and the neurodevelopmental outcomes using linear regression with adjustment for covariates known to influence neurodevelopmental outcomes. RESULTS There were 14 statistically significant associations between a postnatal metric and an endpoint. Six were associated with the TW-C and eight with the TW-A. Thirteen were adverse. Only the TW-C association at 9 years with the Bender Gestalt error score showed improvement. TW-C was adversely associated at 9 years with the Continuous Performance Task risk score, at 22 years with the Boston Naming Test (BNT) total and no cues scores, and at 24 years with the Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA) auditory response time variability and visual response time mean on the logarithmic scale. TW-A was adversely associated at 17 years with the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test % total errors, the Woodcock-Johnson passage comprehension, and the CANTAB rapid visual information processing false alarms, and at 22 years with the BNT total and no cue scores, the CANTAB rapid visual information processing false alarms and the intra-extra dimensional shift total errors and trials. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that postnatal MeHg exposure may be adversely associated with neurodevelopmental outcomes in early adulthood. However, the associations are statistical and of unknown, if any, clinical significance. The results need confirmation in other cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally W Thurston
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Box 630, Rochester, NY 14642, United States; Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States.
| | - Gary Myers
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States; Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States; Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Daniel Mruzek
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Donald Harrington
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Box 630, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
| | - Heather Adams
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | | | - Edwin van Wijngaarden
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States; Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
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Synthesis of Cross-Linked Pyrazine-Based Polymers for Selective Removal of Mercury(II) Ions from Wastewater Solutions. ARABIAN JOURNAL FOR SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s13369-022-06833-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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Crofton KM, Bassan A, Behl M, Chushak YG, Fritsche E, Gearhart JM, Marty MS, Mumtaz M, Pavan M, Ruiz P, Sachana M, Selvam R, Shafer TJ, Stavitskaya L, Szabo DT, Szabo ST, Tice RR, Wilson D, Woolley D, Myatt GJ. Current status and future directions for a neurotoxicity hazard assessment framework that integrates in silico approaches. COMPUTATIONAL TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2022; 22:100223. [PMID: 35844258 PMCID: PMC9281386 DOI: 10.1016/j.comtox.2022.100223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
Neurotoxicology is the study of adverse effects on the structure or function of the developing or mature adult nervous system following exposure to chemical, biological, or physical agents. The development of more informative alternative methods to assess developmental (DNT) and adult (NT) neurotoxicity induced by xenobiotics is critically needed. The use of such alternative methods including in silico approaches that predict DNT or NT from chemical structure (e.g., statistical-based and expert rule-based systems) is ideally based on a comprehensive understanding of the relevant biological mechanisms. This paper discusses known mechanisms alongside the current state of the art in DNT/NT testing. In silico approaches available today that support the assessment of neurotoxicity based on knowledge of chemical structure are reviewed, and a conceptual framework for the integration of in silico methods with experimental information is presented. Establishing this framework is essential for the development of protocols, namely standardized approaches, to ensure that assessments of NT and DNT based on chemical structures are generated in a transparent, consistent, and defendable manner.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Arianna Bassan
- Innovatune srl, Via Giulio Zanon 130/D, 35129 Padova,
Italy
| | - Mamta Behl
- Division of the National Toxicology Program, National
Institutes of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| | - Yaroslav G. Chushak
- Henry M Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military
Medicine, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433, USA
| | - Ellen Fritsche
- IUF – Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental
Medicine & Medical Faculty Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf,
Germany
| | - Jeffery M. Gearhart
- Henry M Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military
Medicine, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433, USA
| | | | - Moiz Mumtaz
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, US
Department of Health and Human Services, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Manuela Pavan
- Innovatune srl, Via Giulio Zanon 130/D, 35129 Padova,
Italy
| | - Patricia Ruiz
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, US
Department of Health and Human Services, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Magdalini Sachana
- Environment Health and Safety Division, Environment
Directorate, Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD), 75775
Paris Cedex 16, France
| | - Rajamani Selvam
- Office of Clinical Pharmacology, Office of Translational
Sciences, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER), U.S. Food and Drug
Administration (FDA), Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA
| | - Timothy J. Shafer
- Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Center
for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, US EPA, Research Triangle Park, NC,
USA
| | - Lidiya Stavitskaya
- Office of Clinical Pharmacology, Office of Translational
Sciences, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER), U.S. Food and Drug
Administration (FDA), Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA
| | | | | | | | - Dan Wilson
- The Dow Chemical Company, Midland, MI 48667, USA
| | | | - Glenn J. Myatt
- Instem, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- Corresponding author.
(G.J. Myatt)
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Kendricks DR, Boomhower SR, Newland MC. Adolescence as a sensitive period for neurotoxicity: Lifespan developmental effects of methylmercury. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2022; 217:173389. [PMID: 35452710 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2022.173389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Neurotoxicity resulting from the environmental contaminant, methylmercury (MeHg), is a source of concern for many human populations that rely heavily on the consumption of fish and rice as stable ingredients in the diet. The developmental period of exposure is important both to the qualitative effects of MeHg and to the dose required to produce those effects. MeHg exposure during the sensitive prenatal period causes deleterious and long-lasting changes in neurodevelopment at particularly low doses. The effects include a wide host of cognitive and behavioral outcomes expressed in adulthood and sometimes not until aging. However, neurotoxic outcomes of methylmercury when exposure occurs during adolescence are only recently revealing impacts on human populations and animal models. This review examines the current body of work and showcases the sensitivity of adolescence, a period that straddles early development and adulthood, to methylmercury neurotoxicity and the implications such toxicity has in our understanding of methylmercury's effects in human populations and animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalisa R Kendricks
- Department of Psychology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States of America.
| | - Steven R Boomhower
- Gradient, Boston, MA, United States of America; Harvard Division of Continuing Education, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
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The benefits of fish intake: results concerning prenatal mercury exposure and child outcomes from the ALSPAC prebirth cohort. Neurotoxicology 2022; 91:22-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2022.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Garí M, Grzesiak M, Krekora M, Kaczmarek P, Jankowska A, Król A, Kaleta D, Jerzyńska J, Janasik B, Kuraś R, Tartaglione AM, Calamandrei G, Hanke W, Polańska K. Prenatal exposure to neurotoxic metals and micronutrients and neurodevelopmental outcomes in early school age children from Poland. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 204:112049. [PMID: 34520749 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to environmental factors, such as neurotoxic metals and micronutrients, during critical periods of development can contribute to long-term consequences in offspring's health, including neurodevelopmental outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between simultaneous prenatal exposure to metals [lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg)] and micronutrients [selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu)] and neurodevelopmental outcomes in school-age children from the Polish Mother and Child Cohort (REPRO_PL). Metals and micronutrients concentrations were measured in cord blood (Pb, Cd, Se, Zn, Cu) and in maternal hair (Hg) collected during the 3rd trimester of pregnancy. Behavioral and emotional problems, as well as children's cognitive and psychomotor development, were assessed in 436 school-age children using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ, filled in by the mothers) and the Polish adaptation of the Intelligence and Development Scales (IDS, administered by trained psychologists). Multivariate regression models were applied after imputation of missing values, using two approaches: (i) a joint analysis taking into account all metals and micronutrients simultaneously, and (ii) an ExWAS study (single-exposure model). In the SDQ, Hyperactivity/Inattention problems and Total difficulties were associated with higher Hg concentrations in maternal hair (0.18, 95% CI: 0.05; 0.3; and 0.14, 95% CI: 0.01; 0.3, respectively), whereas Emotional symptoms were inversely associated with Se and Zn levels in cord blood (-0.13, 95% CI: -0.3; 0.004; and -0.10, 95% CI: -0.2; 0.02, respectively). In the IDS, cord blood Pb levels were found to be negatively associated with Fluid and Crystallized IQ (-0.12, 95% CI: -0.3; 0.02; and -0.14, 95% CI: -0.3; 0.007, respectively) as well as Mathematical skills (-0.15, 95% CI: -0.3; 0.01). The current research has been able to simultaneously assess the exposure to various interacting chemicals during the prenatal period. We demonstrate that prenatal co-exposures to Pb, Hg, Zn and Se have long-term influences on the neuropsychological outcome of school-age children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercè Garí
- Institute of Computational Biology, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany.
| | - Mariusz Grzesiak
- Department of Perinatology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital" Research Institute, Lodz, Poland; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, IInd Chair of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical University of Lodz, Poland.
| | - Michał Krekora
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, IInd Chair of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical University of Lodz, Poland; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital" Research Institute, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Piotr Kaczmarek
- Department of Perinatology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital" Research Institute, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Agnieszka Jankowska
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Hazards, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Anna Król
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Hazards, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Dorota Kaleta
- Department of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Medical University of Lodz, Poland.
| | - Joanna Jerzyńska
- Department of Paediatrics and Allergy, Copernicus Memorial Hospital, Medical University of Lodz, Poland.
| | - Beata Janasik
- Department of Biological and Environmental Monitoring, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Renata Kuraś
- Department of Biological and Environmental Monitoring, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Anna Maria Tartaglione
- Centre for Behavioural Sciences and Mental Health, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy.
| | - Gemma Calamandrei
- Centre for Behavioural Sciences and Mental Health, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy.
| | - Wojciech Hanke
- Department of Environmental Epidemiology, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Kinga Polańska
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Hazards, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland; Department of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Medical University of Lodz, Poland.
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Liu C, Ralston NVC. Seafood and health: What you need to know? ADVANCES IN FOOD AND NUTRITION RESEARCH 2021; 97:275-318. [PMID: 34311902 DOI: 10.1016/bs.afnr.2021.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Seafood, including fish and shellfish, provides an ideal package of nutrients and is an important part of a healthy diet. Strong evidence has shown that eating fish and other seafoods improve brain, eye, and heart health. The new 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) recommend that Americans of all ages should eat more seafood-at least twice a week-particularly pregnant women and young children. However, less than one in five Americans heed that advice. About one-third of Americans eat seafood once a week, while nearly half eat fish only occasionally or not at all. This calls for a drastic shift in the American diet to vary protein sources and include more seafood products in order to receive the most health benefits. This chapter covers (1) seafood nutrition and health benefits, (2) seafood's protective effects against mercury toxicity, (3) selenium health benefit values (HBVs), and (4) challenges and opportunities for seafood production, demand and sustainability. This chapter aims to convey recent advances in science-based information to increase public awareness of seafood safety, nutrition and health benefits of seafood as part of a healthy diet, and to advocate healthy eating with smart food choices by promoting two servings of seafood per week. This will support the healthy eating patterns and promotes a minimum two to three servings of seafood recommended by the current DGA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengchu Liu
- University of Maryland-UME Sea Grant Extension Program, Center for Food Science and Technology, Princess Anne, MD, United States.
| | - Nicholas V C Ralston
- Earth System Science and Policy, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, United States
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Nyanza EC, Bernier FP, Martin JW, Manyama M, Hatfield J, Dewey D. Effects of prenatal exposure and co-exposure to metallic or metalloid elements on early infant neurodevelopmental outcomes in areas with small-scale gold mining activities in Northern Tanzania. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 149:106104. [PMID: 32948351 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.106104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) is associated with release of neurotoxic metallic or metalloid chemical elements including lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd) and arsenic (As). OBJECTIVE To examine associations between prenatal exposure and co-exposure to total lead (T-Pb), total mercury (T-Hg), total cadmium (T-Cd) and total arsenic (T-As) and infant neurodevelopment at 6 to 12 months of age in areas with ASGM activities in Tanzania. METHODS Women in their second trimester of pregnancy who resided in ASGM areas were enrolled from 2015 to 2017 (n = 883). At 6 to 12 months of age, children were assessed with the Malawi Developmental Assessment Tool (MDAT) (n = 439). We measured T-Pb, T-Hg, and T-Cd in maternal dried blood spots and T-As in maternal urines. Poisson regression was used to examine associations between prenatal concentrations of these elements and neurodevelopmental outcomes. RESULTS Prenatal T-Hg concentration was associated with global neurodevelopment status (aPR 1.03, CI:1.01-1.04; p < 0.001) and language impairment (aPR 1.05, CI:1.03-1.07; p < 0.001) on the MDAT. When prenatal T-Hg and T-As values were at or above the human biomonitoring reference values (≥95%) of the German Environmental Survey for Human Biomonitoring, that is 0.80 µg/L and 15 µg/L, respectively, the prevalence ratio of global neurodevelopmental impairment was two times higher (aPR 2.1, CI:1.0-4.3; p = 0.034). There was a 40% increase in the prevalence ratio of global neurodevelopmental impairment (aPR 1.4, CI:0.90-2.10, p = 0.027), when prenatal T-Hg was at or above the reference value of 0.80 µg/L and T-Pb was at or above the reference value of 35 µg/L. When prenatal T-Hg was at or above the reference value of 0.80 µg/L and T-As was at or above the reference value of 15 µg/L, the prevalence ratio of global neurodevelopmental impairment was two times higher (aPR 2.1, CI:1.0-4.3; p < 0.034). DISCUSSION Infants born to women in areas with ASGM activities are at significant risk for neurodevelopmental impairment and this is associated with exposure to higher concentrations of Hg prenatally. Co-exposure to high concentrations of Hg and Pb, or Hg and As appeared to have negative potentiated effects on infants' neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias C Nyanza
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6, Canada; Department of Environmental, Occupational Health and GIS, School of Public Health, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 1464, Bugando, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Francois P Bernier
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Calgary, Alberta Children's Hospital, 28 Oki Drive NW, Calgary, AB T3B 6A8, Canada; Department of Medical Genetics, Cumming School of Medicine, 3330 Hospital Drive NW University of Calgary, Canada; Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Room 294, Heritage Medical Research Building, 3330 Hospital Drive, NW Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Jonathan W Martin
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Mange Manyama
- Division of Medical Education, Weill-Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Jennifer Hatfield
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6, Canada
| | - Deborah Dewey
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3280 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6, Canada; Department of Paediatrics, University of Calgary, Alberta Children's Hospital, 28 Oki Drive NW, Calgary, AB T3B 6A8, Canada; Department of Medical Genetics, Cumming School of Medicine, 3330 Hospital Drive NW University of Calgary, Canada; Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Room 294, Heritage Medical Research Building, 3330 Hospital Drive, NW Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada; Owerko Centre, #397 Child Development Centre, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. NW Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada.
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14
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Branco V, Aschner M, Carvalho C. Neurotoxicity of mercury: an old issue with contemporary significance. ADVANCES IN NEUROTOXICOLOGY 2021; 5:239-262. [PMID: 34263092 PMCID: PMC8276940 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ant.2021.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Mercury exerts a variety of toxic effects, depending on the specific compound and route of exposure. However, neurotoxicity in virtue of its consequence to health causes the greatest concern for toxicologists. This is particularly true regarding fetal development, where neurotoxic effects are much more severe than in adults, and the toxicity threshold is lower. Here, we review the major concepts regarding the neurotoxicity of mercury compounds (mercury vapor; methylmercury and ethylmercury), from exposure routes to toxicokinetic particularities leading to brain deposition and the development of neurotoxic effects. Albeit research on the neurotoxicity of mercury compounds has significantly advanced from the second half of the twentieth century onwards, several grey areas regarding the mechanism of toxicity still exist. Thus, we emphasize research advances during the last two decades concerning the molecular interactions of mercury which cause neurotoxic effects. Highlights include the disruption of glutamate signaling and excitotoxicity resulting from exposure to mercury and the interaction with redox active residues such as cysteines and selenocysteines which are the premise accounting for the disruption of redox homeostasis caused by mercurials. We also address how immunotoxic effects at the CNS, namely microglia and astrocyte activation modulate developmental neurotoxicity, a major topic in contemporary research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasco Branco
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, USA
| | - Cristina Carvalho
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
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15
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Kim B, Shah S, Park HS, Hong YC, Ha M, Kim Y, Kim BN, Kim Y, Ha EH. Adverse effects of prenatal mercury exposure on neurodevelopment during the first 3 years of life modified by early growth velocity and prenatal maternal folate level. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 191:109909. [PMID: 32871452 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Previous studies have suggested that mercury exposure and folate levels during pregnancy may influence early childhood neurodevelopment. Rapid catch-up growth in children is associated with an increased risk of pathological nervous system development. We evaluated whether the association between prenatal folate and mercury-related neuropsychological dysfunction was modified by growth velocity during childhood. METHODS The Mothers and Children's Environmental Health (MOCEH) birth cohort study began in 2006 and by 2010, 1751 women had been enrolled before the second trimester of their pregnancy along with their partners. Participants visited the research center at birth and 6, 12, 24, and 36 months. We measured mercury levels in maternal and cord blood and folate in maternal serum. Questionnaires to evaluate the environment and health of their child were administered and anthropometric factors including body weight and height were measured. Certified investigators used the Bayley test to measure neurobehavioral outcomes. We calculated postnatal growth change as the change in infant weight for-age z-score between birth and 3 years. Multiple linear regression and mixed models were used to examine the association between mercury exposure and children's neurodevelopment as well as the modifying effects of folate and growth velocity. RESULTS A total of 30.6% of children experienced rapid growth during the first 3 years of life. Median values of mercury in the low folate group were significantly higher in rapid growers (3.41 μg/L in maternal blood and 5.63 μg/L in cord blood) than in average/slow growers (3.05 μg/L in maternal blood and 5.19 μg/L in cord blood). Rapid growers were also significantly associated with decreased psychomotor development scores during the first 3 years of life and with having mothers who had low prenatal folate levels, even after adjusting for potential confounders. CONCLUSION Prenatal mercury exposure adversely affects infant neurodevelopment and is associated with rapid growth during the first 3 years of life. This effect was limited to children whose mothers had low prenatal folate levels, suggesting a protective effect of folate against developmental neurotoxicity due to mercury exposure and rapid catch-up growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byungmi Kim
- National Cancer Control Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Surabhi Shah
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, College of Medicine, Ewha Medical Research Center, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Sook Park
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Ewha Medical Research Center, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Chul Hong
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Mina Ha
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Yangho Kim
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Boong-Nnyun Kim
- Division of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Institute of Human Behavioral Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeni Kim
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, National Center for Mental Health, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Hee Ha
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, College of Medicine, Ewha Medical Research Center, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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16
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Weng JC, Hong CI, Tasi JD, Shen CY, Su PH, Wang SL. The association between prenatal endocrine-disrupting chemical exposure and altered resting-state brain fMRI in teenagers. Brain Struct Funct 2020; 225:1669-1684. [PMID: 32448957 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-020-02089-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Many studies have reported that prenatal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can cause adverse behavioral effects or cognitive dysfunction in children. This study aimed to investigate a relationship of the concentration of prenatal EDCs and brain function in teenagers. We recruited 59 mother-child pairs during the third trimester of pregnancy, and collected and examined the concentration of EDCs, such as heavy metals, phthalates and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), in maternal urine and serum. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) data were collected in teenagers 13-16 years of age, and fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (fALFF) and regional homogeneity (ReHo) were performed to find the association between maternal EDC concentrations and the functional development of the teenage brain. We found a correlation between MBP concentration and activity in the superior frontal gyrus, middle frontal gyrus, middle temporal gyrus and inferior temporal gyrus in the combined group of boys and girls. We also observed a correlation between MBzP concentration and activity in the anterior cingulum gyrus and insula in girls. We found a correlation between lead concentration and activity in the cuneus in the combined group. We also observed a correlation between MeHg concentration and activity in the superior temporal gyrus, caudate nucleus and putamen in the combined group. The PFOS results revealed a negative relationship between activity in the right putamen in boys, girls and the combined group after phthalate or heavy metals were applied as covariates. The PFNA results showed a negative correlation between activity in the left/right putamen and left caudate nucleus in boys, girls and the combined group after phthalate, heavy metals or PFOS were applied as covariates. We examined the correlations between maternal EDC concentrations and brain development and found that the associations with resting-state teenage brains in some circumstances are sex-related.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Cheng Weng
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Medical Imaging Research Center, Institute for Radiological Research, Chang Gung University and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Department of Psychiatry, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Chi Ieong Hong
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jeng-Dau Tasi
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Yu Shen
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Imaging, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Pen-Hua Su
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Li Wang
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, 35 Keyan Rd., Zhunan, Miaoli County 350, Taiwan.
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17
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Do infants of breast-feeding mothers benefit from additional long-chain PUFA from fish oil? A 6-year follow-up. Br J Nutr 2020; 124:701-708. [PMID: 32312337 DOI: 10.1017/s000711452000135x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Fish-oil supplements are marketed as enhancing intelligence and cognitive performance. However, empirical data concerning the utility of these products in healthy term infants are mixed, particularly with respect to lasting effects into childhood. We evaluated whether fish-oil supplementation during infancy leads to better neurocognitive/behavioural development at 6 years. We conducted a double-blind randomised controlled trial of supplementation with n-3 long-chain PUFA in 420 healthy term infants. Infants received either fish oil (containing at least 250 mg DHA and at least 60 mg EPA) or placebo (olive oil) daily from birth to 6 months of age. Neurodevelopmental follow-up was conducted at a mean age of 6 years (sd 7 months), whereby 335 children were assessed for language, executive functioning, global intelligence quotient and behaviour. No significant differences were observed between the groups for the main neurocognitive outcomes. However in parent-report questionnaire, fish-oil supplementation was associated with negative externalising (P = 0·035, d = 0·24) and oppositional/defiant behaviour (P = 0·006, d = 0·31), particularly in boys (P = 0·01, d = 0·45; P = 0·004, d = 0·40). Our results provide evidence that fish-oil supplementation to predominantly breast-fed infants confers no significant cognitive or behavioural benefit to children at 6 years.
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18
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Llop S, Murcia M, Amorós R, Julvez J, Santa-Marina L, Soler-Blasco R, Rebagliato M, Iñiguez C, Aguinagalde X, Iriarte G, Lopez-Espinosa MJ, Andiarena A, Gonzalez L, Vioque J, Sunyer J, Ballester F. Postnatal exposure to mercury and neuropsychological development among preschooler children. Eur J Epidemiol 2020; 35:259-271. [DOI: 10.1007/s10654-020-00620-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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19
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Gagnon-Chauvin A, Bastien K, Saint-Amour D. Environmental toxic agents: The impact of heavy metals and organochlorides on brain development. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2020; 173:423-442. [PMID: 32958188 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-64150-2.00030-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to environmental toxicants can have deleterious effects on the development of physical, cognitive, and mental health. Extensive laboratory and clinical studies have demonstrated how the developing brain is uniquely sensitive to toxic agents. This chapter focuses on the main neurologic impairments linked to prenatal and postnatal exposure to lead, methylmercury, and polychlorinated biphenyls, three legacy environmental contaminants whose neurotoxic effects have been extensively studied with respect to cognitive and behavioral development. The main cognitive, emotion regulation, sensory, and motor impairments in association with these contaminants are briefly reviewed, including the underlying neural mechanisms such as neuropathologic damages, brain neurotransmission, and endocrine system alterations. The use of neuroimaging as a novel tool to better understand how the brain is affected by exposure to environmental contaminants is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avril Gagnon-Chauvin
- Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; Research Centre, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Kevin Bastien
- Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; Research Centre, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Dave Saint-Amour
- Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; Research Centre, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.
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20
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Hibbeln JR, Spiller P, Brenna JT, Golding J, Holub BJ, Harris WS, Kris-Etherton P, Lands B, Connor SL, Myers G, Strain JJ, Crawford MA, Carlson SE. Relationships between seafood consumption during pregnancy and childhood and neurocognitive development: Two systematic reviews. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2019; 151:14-36. [PMID: 31739098 PMCID: PMC6924512 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2019.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Abundant data are now available to evaluate relationships between seafood consumption in pregnancy and childhood and neurocognitive development. We conducted two systematic reviews utilizing methodologies detailed by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans Scientific Advisory Committee 2020-2025. After reviewing 44 publications on 106,237 mother-offspring pairs and 25,960 children, our technical expert committee developed two conclusion statements that included the following: "Moderate and consistent evidence indicates that consumption of a wide range of amounts and types of commercially available seafood during pregnancy is associated with improved neurocognitive development of offspring as compared to eating no seafood. Overall, benefits to neurocognitive development began at the lowest amounts of seafood consumed (∼4 oz/wk) and continued through the highest amounts, above 12 oz/wk, some range up to >100 oz/wk.", "This evidence does not meet the criteria for "strong evidence" only due to a paucity of randomized controlled trials that may not be ethical or feasible to conduct for pregnancy" and "Moderate and consistent evidence indicates that consumption of >4 oz/wk and likely >12 oz/wk of seafood during childhood has beneficial associations with neurocognitive outcomes." No net adverse neurocognitive outcomes were reported among offspring at the highest ranges of seafood intakes despite associated increases in mercury exposures. Data are insufficient for conclusive statements regarding lactation, optimal amounts, categories or specific species characterized by mercury content and neurocognitive development; although there is some evidence that dark/oily seafood may be more beneficial. Research was conducted in healthy women and children and is generalizable to US populations. Assessment of seafood as a whole food integrates inherently integrates any adverse effects from neurotoxicants, if any, and benefits to neurocognition from omega-3 fats, as well as other nutrients critical to optimal neurological development. Understanding of the effects of seafood consumption on neurocognition can have significant public health implications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - J Thomas Brenna
- Dell Pediatric Research Institute, Depts of Pediatrics, of Chemistry, and of Nutrition, University of Texas at Austin, TX, USA
| | - Jean Golding
- Pediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Bruce J Holub
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - William S Harris
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Dakota School of Medicine and OmegaQuant Analytics, LLC, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - Penny Kris-Etherton
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Penn State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Bill Lands
- American Society for Nutrition, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Sonja L Connor
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Clinical Nutrition, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Gary Myers
- Neurology, Pediatrics, and Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - J J Strain
- Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food & Health, (NICHE), Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Michael A Crawford
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Susan E Carlson
- Department of Dietetics and Nutrition, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
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21
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Nišević JR, Prpić I, Kolić I, Baždarić K, Tratnik JS, Prpić IŠ, Mazej D, Špirić Z, Barbone F, Horvat M. Combined prenatal exposure to mercury and LCPUFA on newborn's brain measures and neurodevelopment at the age of 18 months. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 178:108682. [PMID: 31450150 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.108682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2019] [Revised: 08/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Prenatal exposure of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) are essential for normal fetal growth and neurodevelopment. Availability of LCPUFA depends mostly on maternal fish consumption. Fish consumption also exposes the fetus to mercury which is well known neurotoxicant. We analyzed the associations of combined LCPUFA and mercury from fish consumption during pregnancy on newborn's brain measures and child neurodevelopment in a northern Adriatic coastal area. PATIENTS AND METHODS The prospective cohort study included 257 mother - infant pairs enrolled in a susceptible population of the Public Health Impact on long-term, low-level, Mixed Element exposure (PHIME) EU Sixth Framework Programme from 2 recruitment areas of the northern part of the Adriatic coast. Umbilical cord blood taken at delivery was used for measuring concentration of total mercury (THg) and specific LCPUFA - docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA). Neonatal cranial sonography was performed at the age of 3 days in 57 newborns. Neurodevelopmental assessment of cognitive, motor and language skills were conducted at 257 children at the age of 18 months using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition. The participants were divided into two groups depending on the THg concentration in the umbilical cord blood (exposed > 5.8 μg/L and unexposed < 5.8 μg/L). Dietary habits and exposures to environmental and social factors were assessed through questionnaires. RESULTS There is a statistically significant difference in the cerebellum length (p = 0.032) and the superior frontal gyrus width (p = 0.023) between the exposed and the unexposed group. In combined analysis, including possible protective variables as DHA and ARA (R2 = 0.22, p = 0.001), the negative contribution of THg on cerebellum length (beta = -0.16, p = 0.001) persisted. We found no correlation between THg concentration in umbilical cord blood and child neurodevelopment scores at the age of 18 months. Language score with receptive and expressive subscores was significantly associated with fish consumption (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION This analysis demonstrates the existence of morphological brain changes in newborns that are prenatally exposed at mercury concentrations what was diminished in combined analyse including LCPUFA. Our results emphasizes the importance of LCPUFA's and mercury common influence as a predictor of developmental outcome. Fish consumption, not solely LCPUFA contributes to better language development of children at the age of 18 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Radić Nišević
- Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital Centre, Istarska 43, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia.
| | - Igor Prpić
- Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital Centre, Istarska 43, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Ivana Kolić
- Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital Centre, Istarska 43, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Ksenija Baždarić
- Faculty of Medicine Rijeka, Braće Branchetta 20, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Janja Snoj Tratnik
- Jozef Stefan Institute, Department of Environmental Sciences, Jamova 39, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Ingrid Škarpa Prpić
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Centre, Istarska 43, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Darja Mazej
- Jozef Stefan Institute, Department of Environmental Sciences, Jamova 39, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Zdravko Špirić
- Green Infrastructure Ltd., Fallerovo Setaliste 22, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Fabio Barbone
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", via dell'Istria, 65/1, 34137, Trieste, Italy
| | - Milena Horvat
- Jozef Stefan Institute, Department of Environmental Sciences, Jamova 39, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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22
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Ulusoy Ş, Mol S, Karakulak FS, Kahraman AE. Selenium-Mercury Balance in Commercial Fish Species from the Turkish Waters. Biol Trace Elem Res 2019; 191:207-213. [PMID: 30552608 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-018-1609-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The interactions between selenium (Se) and mercury (Hg) were assessed in order to interpret public health risk, associated with dietary mercury exposure due to fish consumption. For this purpose, the mass and molar concentrations of Se and Hg were determined in the edible tissues of six species of fish, collected from the commercial fishing grounds of Turkey. The Se/Hg molar ratios and selenium health benefit values (Se-HBVs) were also calculated. The main fish species exported from Turkey to Europe were studied to determine the risks or benefits for human health. The mean Hg levels (μg g-1, wet weight) ranged from 0.01 (in turbot) to 0.45 (in Atlantic bluefin tuna). The average selenium concentrations were between 0.96 μg g-1 (in thornback ray) and 1.86 μg g-1 (in turbot). The molar ratios of Se/Hg were above 1 for all species and greater than 100 in turbot, red mullet, and whiting. Positive Se-HBVs were determined for all samples, showing health benefits. Since Se is present in molar excess of Hg in the fish muscles, organic Hg exposures from eating these fish is not a public health concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Şafak Ulusoy
- Department of Seafood Processing and Quality Control, Faculty of Aquatic Sciences, Istanbul University, Ordu st. No: 8, 34134 Laleli-Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Sühendan Mol
- Department of Seafood Processing and Quality Control, Faculty of Aquatic Sciences, Istanbul University, Ordu st. No: 8, 34134 Laleli-Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - F Saadet Karakulak
- Department of Fisheries Technology, Faculty of Aquatic Sciences, Istanbul University, Ordu st. No: 8, 34134 Laleli-Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Abdullah E Kahraman
- Department of Fisheries Technology, Faculty of Aquatic Sciences, Istanbul University, Ordu st. No: 8, 34134 Laleli-Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
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Ralston NVC, Kaneko JJ, Raymond LJ. Selenium health benefit values provide a reliable index of seafood benefits vs. risks. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2019; 55:50-57. [PMID: 31345365 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2019.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methylmercury (CH3Hg) toxicity causes irreversible inhibition of selenium (Se)-dependent enzymes, including those that are required to prevent and reverse oxidative damage in the brain. Fish consumption provides numerous essential nutrients required for optimal health, but is also associated with CH3Hg exposure risks, especially during fetal development. Therefore, it is necessary to assess the amounts of both elements in seafood to evaluate relative risks or benefits. Consumption of ocean fish containing Se in molar excess of CH3Hg will prevent interruption of selenoenzyme activities, thereby alleviating Hg-exposure risks. Because dietary Se is a pivotal determinant of CH3Hg's effects, the Selenium Health Benefit Value (HBV) criterion was developed to predict risks or benefits as a result of seafood consumption. A negative HBV indicates Hg is present in molar excess of Se and may impair Se availability while a positive HBV indicates consumption will improve the Se status of the consumer, thus negating risks of Hg toxicity. OBJECTIVE This study examined the Hg and Se contents of varieties of seafood to establish those with positive HBV's offering benefits and those having negative HBVs indicating potential consumption risks. METHODS The Hg and Se molar concentrations in samples of meat from pilot whale, mako shark, thresher shark, swordfish, bigeye tuna, and skipjack tuna were used to determine their HBV's in relation to body weight. RESULTS The HBVs of pilot whale, mako shark, and swordfish were typically negative and inversely related to body weight, indicating their consumption may impair Se availability. However, the HBV's of thresher shark, bigeye tuna, and skipjack tuna were uniformly positive regardless of body weights, indicating their consumption counteracts Hg-dependent risks of selenoenzyme impairment. CONCLUSIONS The HBV criterion provides a reliable basis for differentiating seafoods whose intake should be limited during pregnancy from those that should be consumed to obtain health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas V C Ralston
- 310 Clifford Hall, Earth Systems Science and Policy, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, 58202, United States
| | - J John Kaneko
- Hawaii Seafood Council, 1130 N Nimitz Hwy, Suite A263, Honolulu, HI, 96817, United States
| | - Laura J Raymond
- Sage Green Nutrition Research Guidance, 421 N 19thStreet, Grand Forks, ND, 58203, United States
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Farzad R, Kuhn DD, Smith SA, O’Keefe SF, Ralston NVC, Neilson AP, Gatlin DM. Trace minerals in tilapia fillets: Status in the United States marketplace and selenium supplementation strategy for improving consumer's health. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0217043. [PMID: 31170189 PMCID: PMC6553691 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0217043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
This goal of this study was to highlight the importance of minerals in the diet of fish for meeting micronutrient requirements in the human diet. First arsenic, calcium, cadmium, copper, iron, molybdenum, magnesium, manganese, sodium, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, and zinc concentrations of twelve commercially available tilapia samples were measured. The nutritional value of fillets in regard to their mineral content were assessed to establish potential health benefits or risks for consumers. The health benefit value of selenium was also calculated. Positive health benefit values indicate that tilapia fillets in the United States marketplace of this study do not pose health risks associated with mercury exposures. Selenium was the trace mineral of interest. After the market study, a seven-week fish feeding trial was conducted to study the influence of organic versus inorganic dietary selenium on Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Fish were fed two different diets enriched with the same concentration (0.01g kg-1) of selenium in form of inorganic (sodium selenite) or organic (seleno-L-methionine) selenium in triplicate groups. There were no significant differences between growth and biometrics of fish fed different diets (p>0.05). At the end of trial twelve fish from each treatment were collected. Fillets of fish fed organic selenium had selenium concentrations of 0.55 ± 0.01 μg g-1 which were significantly (p<0.05) higher than fish fed inorganic selenium at levels of 0.22 ± 0.008 μg g-1 or fish samples from the marketplace with a selenium level of 0.2 ± 0.03 μg g-1. Fish fed organic selenium also had significantly higher (p<0.05) plasma and kidney selenium in comparison to fish fed inorganic selenium. No significant differences (p>0.05) were observed in glutathione peroxidase activities in either the plasma or liver of Nile tilapia in the different treatment groups. This study shows that organic selenium is a better option for production of Nile tilapia fillets rich in selenium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razieh Farzad
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - David D. Kuhn
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Stephen A. Smith
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Sean F. O’Keefe
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Nicholas V. C. Ralston
- Department of Earth System Science & Policy, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, United States of America
| | - Andrew P. Neilson
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Delbert M. Gatlin
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
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Maternal nut intake in pregnancy and child neuropsychological development up to 8 years old: a population-based cohort study in Spain. Eur J Epidemiol 2019; 34:661-673. [DOI: 10.1007/s10654-019-00521-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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26
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Azad AM, Frantzen S, Bank MS, Nilsen BM, Duinker A, Madsen L, Maage A. Effects of geography and species variation on selenium and mercury molar ratios in Northeast Atlantic marine fish communities. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 652:1482-1496. [PMID: 30586833 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.10.405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2018] [Revised: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a potent neurotoxin that bioaccumulates in seafood. Co-occurrence of selenium (Se) may affect the bioavailability and toxicity of MeHg in organisms. Here we report the concentrations of total mercury (Hg) and Se in 17 teleost fish species (n = 8459) sampled during 2006-2015 from the North East Atlantic Ocean (NEAO) and evaluate species variation and effects of geography. Mean Hg concentration ranged from 0.04 mg kg-1 ww in Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus) and blue whiting (Micromesistius poutassou) to 0.72 mg kg-1 ww in blue ling (Molva dypterygia). Se concentrations were less variable and ranged from 0.27 mg kg-1 ww in Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) to 0.56 mg kg-1 ww in redfish (Sebastes spp.). The mean Se:Hg molar ratio ranged from 1.9 in blue ling to 43.3 in mackerel. Pelagic species had the lowest Hg concentrations and the highest Se:Hg ratios, whereas demersal species had the highest Hg concentrations and the lowest Se:Hg ratios. Se and Hg concentrations were positively correlated in 13 of the 17 species. Hg concentrations increased from the North to South in contrast to the Se:Hg molar ratio which exhibited the opposite trend. Fish from fjord and coastal areas had higher concentrations of Hg and lower Se:Hg molar ratios compared to fish sampled offshore. All species had average Se:Hg molar ratios >1 and Hg concentrations were largely below the EU maximum level of 0.5 mg kg-1 ww with few exceptions including the deep water species tusk (Brosme brosme) and blue ling sampled from fjord and coastal habitats. Our results show that two fillet servings of tusk, blue ling or Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus) exceeded the tolerable weekly intake of MeHg although the surplus Se may possibly ameliorate the toxic effects of MeHg. However, some individuals with selenium deficiencies may exhibit greater sensitivity to MeHg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atabak M Azad
- Institute of Marine Research, Bergen, Norway; Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
| | | | - Michael S Bank
- Institute of Marine Research, Bergen, Norway; Department of Environmental Conservation, University of Massachusetts Amherst, USA.
| | | | | | - Lise Madsen
- Institute of Marine Research, Bergen, Norway; Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Amund Maage
- Institute of Marine Research, Bergen, Norway; Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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Lin PID, Bromage S, Mostofa MG, Rahman M, Allen J, Oken E, Kile ML, Christiani DC. Mediating role of arsenic in the relationship between diet and pregnancy outcomes: prospective birth cohort in Bangladesh. Environ Health 2019; 18:10. [PMID: 30728020 PMCID: PMC6364468 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-019-0450-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiological evidence suggests that arsenic (As) exposure during pregnancy may reduce infant birth weight. One significant source of As exposure is diet; thus, As may indirectly affect infant growth by mediating the effect of maternal diet on birth weight (BW). This study evaluated the potential mediating effect of As in the relationship between maternal diet and BW, gestational age (GA), and gestational weight gain (GWG). METHOD The study used a prospective birth cohort in Bangladesh that captured the dietary habits of 1057 pregnant women through validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaires. We applied a causal mediation model with counterfactual approach and performed analyses with and without adjustment for total energy intake. Other potential confounders captured by self-report questionnaire were exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke, betel nut chewing, maternal age, education level, household income level, physical activity level during pregnancy, and daily hours spent cooking over open fire. RESULT No association was found between maternal toenail As and BW. Higher absolute and energy-adjusted protein, fat and fiber intakes were associated with higher toenail As and lower GA and GWG, while higher absolute and energy-adjusted carbohydrate intake was associated with lower toenail As and greater GA and GWG. Mediation analysis showed significant natural indirect effects by toenail As in the relationships between absolute fat, carbohydrate and fiber intake with GA. Specifically, 3% (95% CI: 1-6%) of the association between carbohydrate intake and GA was mediated by change in toenail As, 6% (95% CI: 1-9%) for absolute fat intake and 10% (95% CI: 4-13%) for absolute fiber intake. After adjusting for total energy, no significant mediating effect was observed, suggesting the mediating effect might be due to measurement error or that absolute amount of As exposure rather than the amount in relationship to total energy intake was a more important factor to consider when understanding the negative implication of As on fetal growth. CONCLUSION The mediating effect of As in the relationship between maternal diet and birth outcome was small and might be due to measurement error.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pi-I D. Lin
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115 USA
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, 401 Park Drive, Suite 401 East, Boston, MA 02215 USA
- Research Center for Environmental Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, No. 100 Shiquan 1st Road, Sanmin District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 807 Taiwan
| | - Sabri Bromage
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Md. Golam Mostofa
- Department of Environmental Research, Dhaka Community Hospital, 190/1 Wireless Railgate Bara Moghbazar, Dhaka, 1217 Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Rahman
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Joseph Allen
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Emily Oken
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, 401 Park Drive, Suite 401 East, Boston, MA 02215 USA
| | - Molly L. Kile
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115 USA
- College of Public Health and Human Science, Oregon State University, 160 SW 26th St, Corvallis, OR 97331 USA
| | - David C. Christiani
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115 USA
- Research Center for Environmental Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, No. 100 Shiquan 1st Road, Sanmin District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 807 Taiwan
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Prato E, Biandolino F, Parlapiano I, Giandomenico S, Denti G, Calò M, Spada L, Di Leo A. Proximate, fatty acids and metals in edible marine bivalves from Italian market: Beneficial and risk for consumers health. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 648:153-163. [PMID: 30114586 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.07.382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Revised: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Seafood is recognized as a healthy food choice due to high contents of essential nutrients, including polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) of the n-3 family. However, seafood is often contaminated by toxic compounds, which have adverse effects on human health. The aim of this study was to provide information about the percentage of edible part, condition index and the benefit and risk for human consumers health associated to the consumption of eight bivalve species (Flexopecten glaber, Mimachlamys varia, Modiolus barbatus, Mytilus galloprovincialis, Ostrea edulis, Ruditapes philippinarum, Solen marginatus and Venus verrucosa) of high commercial value, purchased from Taranto local fish markets. High percentage of edibility and condition index were found in all analysed species. The relatively high protein content, low levels of lipid and high percentage of healthy n-3 PUFAs make M. varia, O. edulis, S. marginatus, M. galloprovincialis, M. barbatus more suitable for benefit to consumers. Provisional tolerable weekly intake and hazard index calculated on the basis of trace metals in edible tissues, indicated specific recommendations for a responsible daily consumption of shellfish. For the most part of studied species, the estimated balance between beneficial and risk for consumers recommend a daily portion (RDP) lesser of 60 g/person/day than M. galloprovincialis, O. edulis and R. philippinarum (≥60 g/person/day). Careful risk-benefit considerations should promote seafood consumption while minimizing exposure to toxic contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Prato
- CNR-IAMC, Institute for Coastal Marine Environment, Via Roma 3, Taranto, Italy.
| | - F Biandolino
- CNR-IAMC, Institute for Coastal Marine Environment, Via Roma 3, Taranto, Italy
| | - I Parlapiano
- CNR-IAMC, Institute for Coastal Marine Environment, Via Roma 3, Taranto, Italy
| | - S Giandomenico
- CNR-IAMC, Institute for Coastal Marine Environment, Via Roma 3, Taranto, Italy
| | - G Denti
- CNR-IAMC, Institute for Coastal Marine Environment, Via Roma 3, Taranto, Italy
| | - M Calò
- CNR-IAMC, Institute for Coastal Marine Environment, Via Roma 3, Taranto, Italy
| | - L Spada
- CNR-IAMC, Institute for Coastal Marine Environment, Via Roma 3, Taranto, Italy
| | - A Di Leo
- CNR-IAMC, Institute for Coastal Marine Environment, Via Roma 3, Taranto, Italy
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29
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Mercury's neurotoxicity is characterized by its disruption of selenium biochemistry. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2018; 1862:2405-2416. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2018.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2018] [Revised: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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30
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Ralston NV. Effects of soft electrophiles on selenium physiology. Free Radic Biol Med 2018; 127:134-144. [PMID: 30053507 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2018.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Revised: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This review examines the effects of neurotoxic electrophiles on selenium (Se) metabolism. Selenium-dependent enzymes depend on the unique and elite functions of selenocysteine (Sec), the 21st proteinogenic amino acid, to perform their biochemical roles. Humans possess 25 selenoprotein genes, ~ half of which are enzymes (selenoenzymes) required for preventing, controlling, or reversing oxidative damage, while others participate in regulating calcium metabolism, thyroid hormone status, protein folding, cytoskeletal structure, Sec synthesis and Se transport. While selenoproteins are expressed in tissue dependent distributions and levels in all cells of all vertebrates, they are particularly important in brain development, health, and functions. As the most potent intracellular nucleophile, Sec is subject to binding by mercury (Hg) and other electron poor soft neurotoxic electrophiles. Epidemiological and environmental studies of the effects of exposures to methyl-Hg (CH3Hg+), elemental Hg (Hg°), and/or other metallic/organic neurotoxic soft electrophiles need to consider the concomitant effects of all members of this class of toxicants in relation to the Se status of their study populations. The contributions of individual electrophiles' discrete and cooperative rates of Se sequestration need to be evaluated in relation to tissue Se reserves of the exposed populations to identify sensitive subgroups which may be at accentuated risk due to poor Se status. Additional study is required to examine possibilities of inherited, acquired, or degenerative neurological disorders of Se homeostasis that may influence vulnerability to soft electrophile exposures. Investigations of soft electrophile toxicity will be enhanced by considering the concomitant effects of combined exposures on tissue Se-availability in relation to pathological consequences during fetal development or in relation to etiologies of neurological disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. Since selenoenzymes are molecular "targets" of soft electrophiles, concomitant evaluation of aggregate exposures to these toxicants in relation to dietary Se intakes will assist regulatory agencies in their goals of improving and protecting public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Vc Ralston
- Earth System Science and Policy, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, USA.
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31
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Barbone F, Rosolen V, Mariuz M, Parpinel M, Casetta A, Sammartano F, Ronfani L, Vecchi Brumatti L, Bin M, Castriotta L, Valent F, Little DL, Mazej D, Snoj Tratnik J, Miklavčič Višnjevec A, Sofianou K, Špirić Z, Krsnik M, Osredkar J, Neubauer D, Kodrič J, Stropnik S, Prpić I, Petrović O, Vlašić-Cicvarić I, Horvat M. Prenatal mercury exposure and child neurodevelopment outcomes at 18 months: Results from the Mediterranean PHIME cohort. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2018; 222:9-21. [PMID: 30057028 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2018.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Revised: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neurotoxicity due to acute prenatal exposure to high-dose of mercury (Hg) is well documented. However, the effect of prenatal exposure to low Hg levels on child neurodevelopment and the question about "safety" of fish-eating during pregnancy remain controversial. International comparisons of Hg concentrations in mother-child biological samples and neurodevelopmental scores embedded in birth cohort studies may provide useful evidence to explore this issue. MATERIALS AND METHODS The Mediterranean (Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, and Greece) cohort study included 1308 mother-child pairs enrolled in the Public Health Impact of long-term, low-level, Mixed Element exposure in a susceptible population EU Sixth Framework Programme (PHIME). Maternal hair and venous blood, cord blood and breast milk samples were collected, and total Hg (THg) levels were measured. Demographic and socioeconomic information, lifestyles and nutritional habits were collected through questionnaires at different phases of follow-up. Children at 18 months of age underwent neurodevelopmental testing using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition (BSID-III). Multivariate linear and logistic regressions were performed, for each country, to assess the association between THg and BSID-III scores, obtaining adjusted β coefficients and odds ratios (ORs). These values were used to conduct a meta-analysis, to explore possible heterogeneity among countries and to obtain combined estimates of the association between THg exposure and BSID-III scores. RESULTS Median THg (ng/g) was: 704 in maternal hair, 2.4 in maternal blood, 3.6 in cord blood, and 0.6 in breast milk. THg concentrations were highest in Greece and lowest in Slovenia. BSID-III neurodevelopmental scores were higher in Croatia and Slovenia. The meta-analysis of multivariate linear models found an overall positive association between language composite score and receptive communication scaled score and increasing THg in maternal hair (n = 1086; β = 0.55; 95%CI: 0.05-1.05 and n = 1075; β = 0.12; 95%CI: 0.02-0.22, respectively). The meta-analysis of logistic regression models showed that the overall adjusted OR between THg in cord blood and suboptimal gross motor score was borderline significant (n = 882; OR = 1.03; 95%CI: 1.00-1.07). Heterogeneity was found across the four sub-cohorts for language composite score in maternal blood, and for fine motor scaled score in cord blood and breast milk. Language composite score and THg concentrations in maternal venous blood were positively related (n = 58; β = 4.29; CI95% (-0.02, 8.60)) in Croatia and an increase of 1 ng/g of THg in maternal venous blood was associated with a reduced risk for children to fall in the lowest quintile of language score by 31% (n = 58; OR = 0.69; CI 95%: 0.37, 1.01). The comparison of β coefficients obtained by multiple linear regression model showed an inverse association between fine motor score and THg concentrations in cord blood for Croatia (n = 54; β = -0.53; CI 95%: -1.10, 0.04) and Slovenia (n = 225; β = -0.25; CI 95%: -0.49, -0.01). In Slovenia THg level in breast milk was associated with suboptimal fine motor performance (n = 195; OR = 5.25; CI 95%: 1.36, 21.10). CONCLUSIONS This study showed an inverse relation between THg levels and developmental motor scores at 18 months, although the evidence was weak and partially internally and externally inconsistent. No evidence of detrimental effects of THg was found for cognitive and language outcomes at these concentrations and age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Barbone
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", via dell'Istria, 65/1, 34137, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Valentina Rosolen
- Department of Medical Area, University of Udine, via Colugna 50, 33100, Udine, Italy.
| | - Marika Mariuz
- Department of Medical Area, University of Udine, via Colugna 50, 33100, Udine, Italy.
| | - Maria Parpinel
- Department of Medical Area, University of Udine, via Colugna 50, 33100, Udine, Italy.
| | - Anica Casetta
- Department of Medical Area, University of Udine, via Colugna 50, 33100, Udine, Italy.
| | - Francesca Sammartano
- Department of Medical Area, University of Udine, via Colugna 50, 33100, Udine, Italy.
| | - Luca Ronfani
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", via dell'Istria, 65/1, 34137, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Liza Vecchi Brumatti
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", via dell'Istria, 65/1, 34137, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Maura Bin
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health - IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", via dell'Istria, 65/1, 34137, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Luigi Castriotta
- Institute of Hygiene and Clinical Epidemiology Academic Hospital of Udine, via Colugna 50, 33100, Udine, Italy.
| | - Francesca Valent
- Institute of Hygiene and Clinical Epidemiology Academic Hospital of Udine, via Colugna 50, 33100, Udine, Italy.
| | - D'Anna Latesha Little
- Azienda per I'Assistenza Sanitaria n. 5 Friuli Occidentale, via Piave 54 33170 Pordenone (PN), Italy.
| | - Darja Mazej
- Jozef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39 SI-1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Janja Snoj Tratnik
- Jozef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39 SI-1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia; International Postgraduate School Jozef Stefan, Jamova 39 SI-1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | | | - Katia Sofianou
- Institute of Child Health, "Aghia Sophia" Children's Hospital, Thivon & Papadiamantopoulou, Goudi, 115 27, Athens, Greece.
| | - Zdravko Špirić
- Green Infrastructure Ltd., Fallerovo Setaliste 22, 10.000, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | | | | | | | - Jana Kodrič
- University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | | | - Igor Prpić
- The Clinical Hospital Center of Rijeka, Krešimirova 42, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia.
| | - Oleg Petrović
- The Clinical Hospital Center of Rijeka, Krešimirova 42, 51000, Rijeka, Croatia.
| | | | - Milena Horvat
- Jozef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39 SI-1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia; International Postgraduate School Jozef Stefan, Jamova 39 SI-1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Hibbeln J, Gregory S, Iles-Caven Y, Taylor CM, Emond A, Golding J. Total mercury exposure in early pregnancy has no adverse association with scholastic ability of the offspring particularly if the mother eats fish. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2018; 116:108-115. [PMID: 29665469 PMCID: PMC5993870 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2018.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Revised: 02/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
There is a public perception that relatively low doses of mercury found in seafood are harmful to the fetal brain but little consistent evidence to support this. In earlier publications we have shown no adverse associations between maternal total blood mercury levels and child behaviour, early development or cognitive function as measured by IQ. However, for IQ the lack of adverse association was conditional upon the mother being a fish eater. In this paper we analyse further data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), this time examining whether prenatal exposure to total mercury is associated with the child's scholastic abilities in reading, spelling, phoneme awareness, mathematics and science; the number of participants with prenatal mercury and relevant test results varied from 1500 to 2200. Multiple regression was used to assess relationships between prenatal total blood mercury concentrations and 16 different test results, after taking account of a variety of potential confounders; in parallel, logistic regression was used to determine associations with the risk of the child being in the lowest 15% of each score. Analyses were repeated stratifying for fish consumption and sex of the child. There was no evidence of harm associated with the level of total mercury, provided the mother ate fish during pregnancy. This was particularly true for tests of mathematics and science. We conclude that women should be confident that eating fish in pregnancy is beneficial for their unborn child.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Hibbeln
- Section on Nutritional Neurosciences, Laboratory of Membrane Biophysics & Biochemistry, Nat. Institutes on Alcohol Abuse & Alcoholism, NIH, 31 Center Drive 1B/58, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Steven Gregory
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Health, Bristol Medical School (Public Health Sciences) University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK.
| | - Yasmin Iles-Caven
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Health, Bristol Medical School (Public Health Sciences) University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK.
| | - Caroline M Taylor
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Health, Bristol Medical School (Public Health Sciences) University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK.
| | - Alan Emond
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Health, Bristol Medical School (Public Health Sciences) University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK
| | - Jean Golding
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Health, Bristol Medical School (Public Health Sciences) University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK.
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Eissa N, Al-Houqani M, Sadeq A, Ojha SK, Sasse A, Sadek B. Current Enlightenment About Etiology and Pharmacological Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:304. [PMID: 29867317 PMCID: PMC5964170 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental brain disorder characterized by two core behavioral symptoms, namely impairments in social communication and restricted/repetitive behavior. The molecular mechanisms underlying ASD are not well understood. Recent genetic as well as non-genetic animal models contributed significantly in understanding the pathophysiology of ASD, as they establish autism-like behavior in mice and rats. Among the genetic causes, several chromosomal mutations including duplications or deletions could be possible causative factors of ASD. In addition, the biochemical basis suggests that several brain neurotransmitters, e.g., dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-HT), gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA), acetylcholine (ACh), glutamate (Glu) and histamine (HA) participate in the onset and progression of ASD. Despite of convincible understanding, risperidone and aripiprazole are the only two drugs available clinically for improving behavioral symptoms of ASD following approval by Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Till date, up to our knowledge there is no other drug approved for clinical usage specifically for ASD symptoms. However, many novel drug candidates and classes of compounds are underway for ASD at different phases of preclinical and clinical drug development. In this review, the diversity of numerous aetiological factors and the alterations in variety of neurotransmitter generation, release and function linked to ASD are discussed with focus on drugs currently used to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms related to ASD. The review also highlights the clinical development of drugs with emphasis on their pharmacological targets aiming at improving core symptoms in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nermin Eissa
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohammed Al-Houqani
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Adel Sadeq
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University of Science and Technology, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shreesh K. Ojha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Astrid Sasse
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Bassem Sadek
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Huang LS, Cory-Slechta DA, Cox C, Thurston SW, Shamlaye CF, Watson GE, van Wijngaarden E, Zareba G, Strain J, Myers GJ, Davidson PW. Analysis of Nonlinear Associations between Prenatal Methylmercury Exposure from Fish Consumption and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in the Seychelles Main Cohort at 17 Years. STOCHASTIC ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND RISK ASSESSMENT : RESEARCH JOURNAL 2018; 32:893-904. [PMID: 30323714 PMCID: PMC6183066 DOI: 10.1007/s00477-017-1451-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Seychelles Child Development Study has been examining the relationship between prenatal methylmercury (MeHg) exposure from consuming fish during pregnancy and child development. This study re-analyzes seven outcomes in the 17 year Main Cohort data to determine if there are nonlinear or non-homogeneous (subgroup) associations that were not identified in the linear analysis. METHODS We adopted two statistical approaches. First, we carried out an additive nonlinear analysis assuming homogeneous prenatal MeHg-outcome relationships to explore overall associations. Second, we applied the regression tree to the Woodcock-Johnson Calculation subtest (it was significantly associated in earlier analyses) and identified 4 clusters based on covariates. Then we used additive models to assess the prenatal MeHg association in each of the four clusters for all seven outcomes. This approach assumes nonlinear associations in each cluster and non-homogeneous associations between clusters. RESULTS The additive nonlinear analysis yielded prenatal MeHg curves similar to the linear analysis. For the regression tree analysis, the curves relating prenatal MeHg to outcomes between the 4 clusters differed and some crossed at higher prenatal MeHg levels, suggesting non-homogeneity in the upper range of exposure. Additionally, some of the curves suggested a possible non-linear relationship within the range of exposure we studied. CONCLUSION This non-linear analysis supports the findings from the linear analysis. It shows little evidence to support an adverse association of prenatal MeHg exposure through maternal consumption of fish contaminated with natural background levels. However, the tree analysis suggests that the prenatal exposure/outcome relationship may not be homogeneous across all individuals and that some subpopulations may have an adverse association in the upper range of the exposures studied. More robust data in the higher levels of exposure in this cohort are needed to confirm this finding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Shan Huang
- Institute of Statistics, National Tsing Hua University, TAIWAN
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Deborah A. Cory-Slechta
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Christopher Cox
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Sally W. Thurston
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | | | - Gene E. Watson
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
- Eastman Department of Dentistry, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Edwin van Wijngaarden
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
- Department of Community and Preventive Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Grazyna Zareba
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - J.J. Strain
- University of Ulster, Coleraine, Northern Ireland
| | - Gary J. Myers
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
- Department of Neurology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
| | - Philip W. Davidson
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY
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Murray J, Shenderovich Y, Gardner F, Mikton C, Derzon JH, Liu J, Eisner M. Risk Factors for Antisocial Behavior in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review of Longitudinal Studies. CRIME AND JUSTICE (CHICAGO, ILL.) 2018; 47:255-364. [PMID: 30310248 PMCID: PMC6176906 DOI: 10.1086/696590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Violent crime is a major cause of social instability, injury, and death in low- and middle-income countries. Longitudinal studies in high-income countries have provided important evidence on developmental precursors of violence and other antisocial behaviors. However, there may be unique influences or different risk factor effects in other social settings. Extensive searches in seven languages and screening of over 60,000 references identified 39 longitudinal studies of antisocial behavior in low- and middle-income countries. Many risk factors have roughly the same average effects as when studied in high-income countries. Stability of aggression over a 3-year period is almost identical across low- and middle-income countries and high-income countries. Dimensions of comorbid psychopathology such as low self-control, hyperactivity, and sensation seeking are associated with antisocial behavior in low- and middle-income countries, but some early physical health factors have consistently weak or null effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Murray
- Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology, Federal University of Pelotas, Brazil
| | | | - Frances Gardner
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, Oxford University
| | - Christopher Mikton
- Department of Health and Social Sciences, University of the West of England
| | - James H Derzon
- Center for Advanced Methods Development, Research Triangle Institute
| | - Jianghong Liu
- School of Nursing and Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
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Al-Hamdan AZ, Preetha PP, Albashaireh RN, Al-Hamdan MZ, Crosson WL. Investigating the effects of environmental factors on autism spectrum disorder in the USA using remotely sensed data. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:7924-7936. [PMID: 29299867 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-1114-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the association between exposures to outdoor environmental factors and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) prevalence in a diverse and spatially distributed population of 8-year-old children from the USA (n = 2,097,188) using the air quality index (AQI) of the US Environmental Protection Agency as well as satellite-derived data of PM2.5 concentrations, sunlight, and maximum heat index. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to determine whether the unhealthy AQI, PM2.5, sunlight, and maximum heat index were related to the odds of ASD prevalence based on gender and race and taking into consideration the confounding factors of smoking and socioeconomic status. The logistic regression odds ratios for ASD per 10% increase in the unhealthy AQI were greater than 1 for all categories, indicating that unhealthy AQI is related to the odds of ASD prevalence. The odds ratio of ASD due to the exposure to the unhealthy AQI was higher for Asians (OR = 2.96, 95% CI = 1.11-7.88) than that for Hispanics (OR = 1.308, 95% CI = 0.607-2.820), and it was higher for Blacks (OR = 1.398, 95% CI = 0.827-2.364) than that for Whites (OR = 1.219, 95% CI = 0.760-1.954). The odds ratio of ASD due to the unhealthy AQI was slightly higher for males (OR = 1.123, 95% CI = 0.771-1.635) than that for females (OR = 1.117, 95% CI = 0.789-1.581). The effects of the unhealthy environmental exposures on the odds ratios of ASD of this study were inconclusive (i.e., statically insignificant; p value > 0.05) for all categories except for Asians. The odds ratios of ASD for Asians were increased by 5, 12, and 14% with increased levels of the environmental exposures of 10 μg/m3 of PM2.5, 1000 kJ/m2 of sunlight, and 1 °F of maximum heat index, respectively. The odds ratios of ASD prevalence for all categories, except for Asians, were increased with the inclusion of the smoking covariate, reflecting the effect of smoking on ASD prevalence besides the unhealthy environmental factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf Z Al-Hamdan
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alabama in Huntsville, 301 Sparkman Drive, Huntsville, AL, 35899, USA.
| | - Pooja P Preetha
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alabama in Huntsville, 301 Sparkman Drive, Huntsville, AL, 35899, USA
| | - Reem N Albashaireh
- Department of Mathematics, Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University, Normal, AL, 35762, USA
| | - Mohammad Z Al-Hamdan
- Universities Space Research Association, NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, National Space Science and Technology Center, 320 Sparkman Drive, Huntsville, AL, 35805, USA
| | - William L Crosson
- Universities Space Research Association, NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, National Space Science and Technology Center, 320 Sparkman Drive, Huntsville, AL, 35805, USA
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Kim Y, Ha EH, Park H, Ha M, Kim Y, Hong YC, Lee EJ, Kim H, Chang N, Kim BN. Prenatal mercury exposure, fish intake and neurocognitive development during first three years of life: Prospective cohort mothers and Children's environmental health (MOCEH) study. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 615:1192-1198. [PMID: 29751424 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In this prospective cohort study, the effects of prenatal Hg exposure on neurocognitive development during the first 3years of life were investigated. METHODS The maternal blood levels of Hg were assessed during pregnancy and in cord blood. Maternal fish intake was assessed by interviewing the weekly frequency of fish intake during pregnancy. Maternal n-3 and n-6 fatty acid intake was estimated based on 24h recall food intake interview. The mental (MDI) and psychomotor (PDI) development index scores were assessed using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development at 6, 12, 24, 36months of age. RESULTS The geometric mean of the maternal blood Hg concentration was 3.3μg/L (10th percentile=1.81; 90th=5.91) during the early pregnancy, 3.0μg/L (10th=1.68; 90th=5.57) during late pregnancy, and 5.1μg/L (10th=2.94; 90th=8.93) in cord blood. After adjusting for weekly frequency of fish intake, the blood Hg concentrations during early pregnancy showed association with the adjusted MDI (β=-0.408, p=0.048) and PDI scores (β=-0.550, p=0.031) at 6months. After further adjusting for n-3 and n-6 fatty acids estimated based on 24h recall of food intake, the blood Hg concentrations during early pregnancy showed association with the MDI (β=-0.489, p=0.026) and PDI (β=-0.664, p=0.015) at 6months. CONCLUSION These results show that prenatal Hg exposure during early pregnancy adversely associated with early neurodevelopment during infancy, after adjusting for fish and n-3, n-6 fatty acid intake. Consuming fish high in fatty acids and low in Hg during early pregnancy may be important to neurocognitive development at early infancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeni Kim
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, National Center for Mental Health, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Hee Ha
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, EwhaWomans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyesook Park
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, EwhaWomans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Mina Ha
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Dankook University College of Medicine, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Yangho Kim
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Chul Hong
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Jung Lee
- Department of Nutritional Science and Food Management, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyesook Kim
- Department of Nutritional Science and Food Management, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Namsoo Chang
- Department of Nutritional Science and Food Management, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Bung-Nyun Kim
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Schofield K. The Metal Neurotoxins: An Important Role in Current Human Neural Epidemics? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:E1511. [PMID: 29206191 PMCID: PMC5750929 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14121511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Revised: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Many published studies have illustrated that several of the present day neurological epidemics (autism, attention deficit disorder, Alzheimer's) cannot be correlated to any single neurotoxicant. However, the present scientific examination of the numerous global blood monitoring databases for adults that include the concentrations of the neurotoxic elements, aluminum (Al), arsenic (As), lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), mercury (Hg), and selenium (Se) clearly indicate that, when considered in combination, for some, the human body may become easily over-burdened. This can be explained by changes in modern lifestyles. Similar data, solely for pregnant women, have been examined confirming this. All these elements are seen to be present in the human body and at not insignificant magnitudes. Currently suggested minimum risk levels (MRL) for humans are discussed and listed together with averages of the reported distributions, together with their spread and maximum values. One observation is that many distributions for pregnant women are not too dissimilar from those of general populations. Women obviously have their individual baseline of neurotoxin values before pregnancy and any efforts to modify this to any significant degree is not yet clearly apparent. For any element, distribution shapes are reasonably similar showing broad distributions with extended tails with numerous outlier values. There are a certain fraction of people that lie well above the MRL values and may be at risk, especially if genetically susceptible. Additionally, synergistic effects between neurotoxins and with other trace metals are now also being reported. It appears prudent for women of child-bearing age to establish their baseline values well before pregnancy. Those at risk then can be better identified. Adequate instrumental testing now is commercially available for this. In addition, directives are necessary for vaccination programs to use only non-neurotoxic adjuvants, especially for young children and all women of child-bearing ages. Additionally, clearer directives concerning fish consumption must now be reappraised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith Schofield
- Materials Research Laboratory, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106-5121, USA.
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Culbreth M, Zhang Z, Aschner M. Methylmercury augments Nrf2 activity by downregulation of the Src family kinase Fyn. Neurotoxicology 2017; 62:200-206. [PMID: 28736149 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2017.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Revised: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a potent developmental neurotoxicant that induces an oxidative stress response in the brain. It has been demonstrated that MeHg exposure increases nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activity. Nrf2 is a transcription factor that translocates to the nucleus in response to oxidative stress, and upregulates phase II detoxifying enzymes. Although, Nrf2 activity is augmented subsequent to MeHg exposure, it has yet to be established whether Nrf2 moves into the nucleus as a result. Furthermore, the potential effect MeHg might have on the non-receptor tyrosine kinase, Fyn, has not been addressed. Fyn phosphorylates Nrf2 in the nucleus, resulting in its inactivation, and consequent downregulation of the oxidative stress response. Here, we observe Nrf2 translocates to the nucleus subsequent to MeHg-induced oxidative stress. This response is concomitant with reduced Fyn expression and nuclear localization. Moreover, we detected an increase in phosphorylated Akt and glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK-3β) at activating and inhibitory sites, respectively. Akt phosphorylates and inhibits GSK-3β, which subsequently prevents Fyn phosphorylation to signal nuclear import. Our results demonstrate MeHg downregulates Fyn to maintain Nrf2 activity, and further illuminate a potential mechanism by which MeHg elicits neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Culbreth
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States.
| | - Ziyan Zhang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
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Karatela S, Paterson J, Ward NI. Domain specific effects of postnatal toenail methylmercury exposure on child behaviour. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2017; 41:10-15. [PMID: 28347455 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2017.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2016] [Revised: 01/12/2017] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Very little is known about the relationship between postnatal methylmercury concentrations (via toenails as bioindicator) and behavioural characteristics of Pacific Island children living in New Zealand. The aim of this study was to explore the association between total mercury exposure and different domains of behavioural problems in Pacific children. MATERIALS AND METHODS A sample of nine-year-old Pacific Island children resident in Auckland, New Zealand participated in this study. Total mercury was determined in biological samples (toenail clippings) on behavioural problems as identified by mothers (using the child behaviour checklist). Specific behavioural domains, particularly aggression, rule breaking, attention and social problems were studied in relation to mercury exposure using toenails. The determination of mercury concentration in toenail clippings, after acid digestion was carried out using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. RESULTS The observational study was conducted between July 2010 and July 2011 in which 278 eligible nine-year-old Pacific Island children were enrolled (Girls n=58%; boys n=42%). FINDINGS showed that 21% of the children had total toenail mercury concentrations (1.5μg/g to 6μg/g) higher than the United State Environmental Protection Agency recommended levels (RfD; 1μg/g Hg) for optimal health in children. Aggressive behaviour was associated with total toenail mercury exposure after adjusting for gender, ethnicity and income levels (OR: 2.15 95% CI 1.45, 3.18 p-value <0.05; OR 1.38 95% CI 0.83, 1.2 p value <0.05, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Overall, this research contributes to the understanding of total toenail mercury concentrations for Pacific people in New Zealand using toenail clippings as biomarkers in terms of associations with child behavioural problems. Mercury in toenails demonstrated a moderate association with a specific behavioural domain - aggressive behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shamshad Karatela
- Middlemore Hospital,100 Hospital Road, Otahuhu, 1640, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Janis Paterson
- AUT University, School of Public Health and Psychosocial Studies, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Neil I Ward
- University of Surrey, Department of Chemistry FEPS, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XH, UK
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Kaya G, Türkoğlu S. Analysis of certain fatty acids and toxic metal bioaccumulation in various tissues of three fish species that are consumed by Turkish people. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 24:9495-9505. [PMID: 28236203 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-8632-2] [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: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 02/12/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Concentrations of toxic metals (Mn, Ni, Hg, Cd, Pb, Cr) in the muscle, skin, and liver of Mugil cephalus, Mullus barbatus, and Pagellus erythrinus which were purchased in large supermarkets of Elazig, and Mullus barbatus, which were caught on the sea of İskenderun Bay, Turkey, were analyzed. Fundamental analyses were carried out by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) after samples were prepared by microwave digestion. Mean metal concentrations in different tissues were varied in the ranges of Cd 4-426, Cr 116-4458, Mn 141-24774, Hg 9-471, Pb 96-695, and Ni 68-6581 μg kg-1, for wet weight. The investigated metal bioaccumulation in the muscles of fish species, in general, was lower than those in the liver and skin. This method was verified by NCS ZC73016 chicken trace element-certified reference material analysis. In addition, fatty acids in the muscles of three fish species were analyzed. According to the gas chromatography (GC) results of fatty acids, the monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) were found to be between 23.76 and 31.97%. The fatty acids' polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) ratio was found to be between 13.67 and 30.71% and saturated fatty acids ratios were determined in the range of 24.06-32.30%. In all fish species, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) ratio, which increase the value of these fish species, were high. These results show that these three fish species are good sources of fatty acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gökçe Kaya
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetic, Health Sciences Faculty, Firat University, Elazig, Turkey.
| | - Semra Türkoğlu
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetic, Health Sciences Faculty, Firat University, Elazig, Turkey
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Ser PH, Omi S, Shimizu-Furusawa H, Yasutake A, Sakamoto M, Hachiya N, Konishi S, Nakamura M, Watanabe C. Differences in the responses of three plasma selenium-containing proteins in relation to methylmercury-exposure through consumption of fish/whales. Toxicol Lett 2016; 267:53-58. [PMID: 27989593 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2016.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2016] [Revised: 11/18/2016] [Accepted: 12/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Putative protective effects of selenium (Se) against methylmercury (MeHg) toxicity have been examined but no conclusion has been reached. We recently reported the lack of serious neurological symptoms in a Japanese fish-eating population with high intakes of MeHg and suggested a potential protective role for Se. Here, relationships between levels of Hg and Se in the blood and plasma samples, with a quantitative evaluation of Se-containing proteins, obtained from this population were examined. While levels of the whole-blood Hg (WB-Hg) and plasma Se (P-Se) showed a positive correlation, stratified analysis revealed that they correlated only in samples with higher (greater than the median) levels of MeHg. A food frequency questionnaire showed that consumption of fish/whales correlated with WB-Hg, but not with P-Se, suggesting that the positive correlation between WB-Hg and P-Se might not be the result of co-intake of these elements from seafood. Speciation of plasma Se revealed the differences in the responses of two plasma selenoproteins, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and selenoprotein P (SePP), in relation to Hg exposure. In the high-Hg group, SePP showed a positive correlation with WB-Hg, but GPx did not. In the low-Hg group, neither SePP nor GPx showed any correlation with WB-Hg. These observations suggest that the increase in P-Se in the high-Hg group might be associated with an increase in SePP, which may, in turn, suggest an increased demand for one or more selenoproteins in various organs, for which SePP supplies the element.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Han Ser
- Department of Human Ecology, School of International Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Hongo 7-3-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Sanae Omi
- Department of Human Ecology, School of International Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Hongo 7-3-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Hana Shimizu-Furusawa
- Department of Human Ecology, School of International Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Hongo 7-3-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Akira Yasutake
- National Institute for Minamata Disease, Hama, Minamata City, Kumamoto Prefecture, 867-0008, Japan
| | - Mineshi Sakamoto
- National Institute for Minamata Disease, Hama, Minamata City, Kumamoto Prefecture, 867-0008, Japan
| | - Noriyuki Hachiya
- National Institute for Minamata Disease, Hama, Minamata City, Kumamoto Prefecture, 867-0008, Japan
| | - Shoko Konishi
- Department of Human Ecology, School of International Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Hongo 7-3-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan; Department of Anthropology, University of Washington, Box 353100, Seattle WA98195-3100, USA
| | - Masaaki Nakamura
- National Institute for Minamata Disease, Hama, Minamata City, Kumamoto Prefecture, 867-0008, Japan
| | - Chiho Watanabe
- Department of Human Ecology, School of International Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Hongo 7-3-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.
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Golding J, Gregory S, Emond A, Iles-Caven Y, Hibbeln J, Taylor CM. Prenatal mercury exposure and offspring behaviour in childhood and adolescence. Neurotoxicology 2016; 57:87-94. [PMID: 27633321 PMCID: PMC5138154 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2016.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2016] [Revised: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 09/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is considerable discussion over the possible harm caused by fetal exposure to mercury, but evidence of such harm is contradictory at levels commonly found in populations with moderate intakes of fish. Further information is needed to inform debate and clarify policy recommendations. MATERIAL Data were collected prospectively for the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC). Whole blood taken in the first half of pregnancy was assayed for mercury. The outcomes were offspring behavioural assessments collected using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire at seven time points between ages 4 and 16-17 years; five were completed by the mother and two by the teacher. Socioeconomic and biological confounders were first taken into account; further analyses added maternal blood selenium. Separate analyses compared the relationships between prenatal mercury levels and behaviour traits treated as continuous measures in women who ate fish with those who ate no fish in order to determine whether the relationships differed; the hypothesis was that fish consumption had benefits on the brain and masked any mercury effects. In order to prevent Type II errors, the P value for significance was set at 0.10. RESULTS Prenatal mercury measurements and offspring behaviour results were available for between 2776 (at 47 months) to 1599 mother-child pairs (at 16-17 years). Even given a P value of 0.10, the number of significant results was no greater than expected apart from the relationships with peer problems at 4, 6 and 10-11 years where the relationships with prenatal mercury were negative (i.e. the greater the level of mercury the fewer the problems the child had with his/her peers). There were no significant differences between the associations with mercury found among the offspring of women who ate fish in pregnancy and those who did not, nor did adjustment for selenium make a difference. CONCLUSIONS There were no adverse effects of maternal prenatal mercury levels on the behaviour of the offspring. A similar lack of relationship was found when the analyses were confined to those offspring whose mothers had eaten fish in pregnancy, and no consistent differences were found between the fish and non-fish eaters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Golding
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Health, University of Bristol, UK.
| | - Steven Gregory
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Health, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Alan Emond
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Health, University of Bristol, UK
| | | | - Joseph Hibbeln
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, USA
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Rebelo FM, Caldas ED. Arsenic, lead, mercury and cadmium: Toxicity, levels in breast milk and the risks for breastfed infants. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2016; 151:671-688. [PMID: 27619212 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2016.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2016] [Revised: 08/23/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Metals are ubiquitous in nature, being found in all environmental compartments, and have a variety of applications in human activities. Metals are transferred by maternal blood to the fetus via the placenta, and exposure continues throughout life. For the general population, exposure comes mainly from water and food consumption, including breast milk. In this paper, we reviewed studies on the toxicity of arsenic, lead, mercury and cadmium, the toxic metals of most concern to human health, focusing on the potential risks to newborns and infants. A total of 75 studies published since 2000 reporting the levels of these metals in breast milk were reviewed. Lead was the metal most investigated in breast milk (43 studies), and for which the highest levels were reported (up to 1515µg/L). Arsenic was the least investigated (18 studies), with higher levels reported for breast milk (up to 149µg/L) collected in regions with high arsenic concentrations in water (>10µg/L). Data from 34 studies on mercury showed that levels in breast milk were generally higher in populations with high fish consumption, where it may be present mainly as MeHg. Cadmium levels in breast milk were the lowest, with means <2µg/L in most of the 29 studies reviewed. Results of risk assessments indicated that the intake of arsenic, lead and mercury by infants through breastfeeding can be considered a health concern in most regions of the world. Although the potential risks to infants are mostly outweighed by the benefits of breast milk consumption, it is essential that contaminants be continuously monitored, especially in the most critical regions, and that measures be implemented by health authorities to reduce exposure of newborns and infants to these metals, and thus avoid unnecessary health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Maciel Rebelo
- Brazilian Health Surveillance Agency, University of Brasilia, 70910-900 Brasilia, DF, Brazil
| | - Eloisa Dutra Caldas
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Pharmacy, University of Brasilia, 70910-900 Brasilia, DF, Brazil.
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van Wijngaarden E, Thurston SW, Myers GJ, Harrington D, Cory-Slechta DA, Strain JJ, Watson GE, Zareba G, Love T, Henderson J, Shamlaye CF, Davidson PW. Methyl mercury exposure and neurodevelopmental outcomes in the Seychelles Child Development Study Main cohort at age 22 and 24years. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2016; 59:35-42. [PMID: 27989696 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2016.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2016] [Revised: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND All fish contain methyl mercury (MeHg), a known neurotoxicant at adequate dosage. There is still substantial scientific uncertainty about the consequences, if any, of mothers consuming fish with naturally-acquired levels of MeHg contamination. In 1989-1990, we recruited the Main Cohort of the Seychelles Child Development Study to assess the potential developmental effects of prenatal MeHg exposure. We report here on associations with neurodevelopmental outcomes obtained at 22 and 24years of age. METHODS Neurodevelopmental tests at 22years included the Boston Naming Test, Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB), and the Profile of Mood States. At 24years, we administered the Stroop Word-Color Test, the Barkley Adult ADHD Rating Scale, the Test of Variables of Attention, and the Finger Tapping test. We also administered a healthy behaviors survey at both ages. Primary analyses examined covariate-adjusted associations in multiple linear regression models with prenatal MeHg exposure. In secondary analyses we also examined associations with recent postnatal MeHg exposure. RESULTS We did not observe adverse associations between prenatal MeHg exposure and any of the measured endpoints. Some measures of attention, executive function, and delayed recall showed improved performance with increasing exposure. Secondary analysis did not show consistent patterns of association with postnatal exposure. CONCLUSIONS Our cohort has been examined at ten different ages over 24years of follow-up. Findings suggest that prenatal and recent postnatal MeHg exposure from ocean fish consumption is not adversely associated with neurobehavioral development at levels that are about ten times higher than typical U.S. exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwin van Wijngaarden
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States.
| | - Sally W Thurston
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Gary J Myers
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Donald Harrington
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States
| | | | - J J Strain
- Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Gene E Watson
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Grazyna Zareba
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Tanzy Love
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States
| | | | | | - Philip W Davidson
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States
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Boucher O, Muckle G, Ayotte P, Dewailly E, Jacobson SW, Jacobson JL. Altered fine motor function at school age in Inuit children exposed to PCBs, methylmercury, and lead. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2016; 95:144-51. [PMID: 27575364 PMCID: PMC5035542 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2016.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2016] [Revised: 08/17/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Motor deficits have frequently been reported in methylmercury (MeHg) poisoning in adults. However, whether exposure to neurotoxic contaminants from environmental sources early in life is associated with neuromotor impairments has received relatively little attention. This study examines the relation of developmental exposure to MeHg, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and lead to motor function in school-age Inuit children exposed through their traditional diet. METHODS In a prospective study in Nunavik, children (mean age=11.3years) were assessed on a battery of fine motor tasks, namely the Stanford-Binet Copying subtest (N=262), the Santa Ana Form Board, and the Finger Tapping Test (N=215). The relation of mercury (Hg; as an index of MeHg exposure), PCB congener 153 (PCB153), and lead concentrations in cord and current blood samples to task performance was examined using linear regression analyses. RESULTS After adjustment for potential confounders and control for the other contaminants, higher current PCB concentrations were associated with poorer Santa Ana Form Board and Finger Tapping performance. Results were virtually identical when PCB153 was replaced by other PCB congeners. Higher current Hg levels were independently associated with poorer Finger Tapping performance. CONCLUSIONS This is the first prospective longitudinal study in children to provide evidence of neuromotor impairments associated with postnatal exposure to seafood contaminants from environmental sources. Fine motor speed appears particularly sensitive to the effects of postnatal PCB exposure, which is unusually high in this population. Results with postnatal MeHg are concordant with previous cross-sectional studies with children and adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Boucher
- Département de psychologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Gina Muckle
- Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Québec, Québec, Canada; Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Pierre Ayotte
- Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Québec, Québec, Canada; Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Eric Dewailly
- Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Québec, Québec, Canada; Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Sandra W Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Joseph L Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND A nutrient-rich maternal diet before and during pregnancy is associated with improved fetal health, more appropriate birth weight, and increased rates of maternal and infant survival. Physicians need a better understanding of the role of diet in shaping fetal outcomes. Given this background, we reviewed and summarized articles on maternal nutrition found in MEDLINE since 1981, written in English, and limited to human subjects. FOR THE OFFSPRING Maternal diets high in sugar and fat lead to an increased incidence of metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease later in life. Folic acid should be supplemented prior to conception and continued through at least the first 28 days of fetal life to prevent neural tube defects, and vitamin C should be given to women who smoke to lower the incidence of asthma and wheezing in the children. Iodine deficiency is increasing, and iodine should be included in prenatal supplements. If the maternal hemoglobin is 7 g/dL or more, there is no evidence that iron supplementation is needed. Fish intake during pregnancy is protective against atopic outcomes, whereas high-meat diets contribute to elevated adult blood pressure and hypersecretion of cortisol. FOR THE MOTHER Calcium supplementation lowers the risk of preeclampsia and hypertensive disease in pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS Given the limits of our current knowledge, a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and selected fish is desirable for the best outcomes. Diets high in sugar and fat lead to higher rates of diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease. Folic acid, iodine, and calcium in all pregnant women and vitamin C in smokers are the only supplements so far shown to be of value for routine use. The physician treating a pregnant woman should be ready to advise a healthy diet for the benefit of the fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard I. Lowensohn
- *Adjunct Associate Professor, Obstetrics & Gynecology and Medical Informatics & Clinical Epidemiology, †Assistant Professor of Medicine, and ‡Clinical Dietitian Specialist, Center for Women’s Health, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Diane D. Stadler
- *Adjunct Associate Professor, Obstetrics & Gynecology and Medical Informatics & Clinical Epidemiology, †Assistant Professor of Medicine, and ‡Clinical Dietitian Specialist, Center for Women’s Health, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Christie Naze
- *Adjunct Associate Professor, Obstetrics & Gynecology and Medical Informatics & Clinical Epidemiology, †Assistant Professor of Medicine, and ‡Clinical Dietitian Specialist, Center for Women’s Health, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR
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Ralston NVC, Ralston CR, Raymond LJ. Selenium Health Benefit Values: Updated Criteria for Mercury Risk Assessments. Biol Trace Elem Res 2016; 171:262-269. [PMID: 26463749 PMCID: PMC4856720 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-015-0516-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2014] [Accepted: 09/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Selenium (Se)-dependent enzymes (selenoenzymes) protect brain tissues against oxidative damage and perform other vital functions, but their synthesis requires a steady supply of Se. High methylmercury (CH3Hg) exposures can severely diminish Se transport across the placenta and irreversibly inhibit fetal brain selenoenzymes. However, supplemental dietary Se preserves their activities and thus prevents pathological consequences. The modified Se health benefit value (HBVSe) is a risk assessment criterion based on the molar concentrations of CH3Hg and Se present in a fish or seafood. It was developed to reflect the contrasting effects of maternal CH3Hg and Se intakes on fetal brain selenoenzyme activities. However, the original equation was prone to divide-by-zero-type errors whereby the calculated values increased exponentially in samples with low CH3Hg contents. The equation was refined to provide an improved index to better reflect the risks of CH3Hg exposures and the benefits provided by dietary Se. The HBVSe provides a biochemically based perspective that confirms and supports the FDA/EPA advice for pregnant and breast-feeding women regarding seafoods that should be avoided vs. those that are beneficial to consume. Since Se can be highly variable between watersheds, further evaluation of freshwater fish is needed to identify locations where fish with negative HBVSe may arise and be consumed by vulnerable subpopulation groups.
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Low-level gestational exposure to mercury and maternal fish consumption: Associations with neurobehavior in early infancy. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2016; 54:61-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2016.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Revised: 02/10/2016] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Julvez J, Méndez M, Fernandez-Barres S, Romaguera D, Vioque J, Llop S, Ibarluzea J, Guxens M, Avella-Garcia C, Tardón A, Riaño I, Andiarena A, Robinson O, Arija V, Esnaola M, Ballester F, Sunyer J. Maternal Consumption of Seafood in Pregnancy and Child Neuropsychological Development: A Longitudinal Study Based on a Population With High Consumption Levels. Am J Epidemiol 2016; 183:169-82. [PMID: 26740026 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwv195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2015] [Accepted: 07/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Seafood consumption during pregnancy is thought to be beneficial for child neuropsychological development, but to our knowledge no large cohort studies with high fatty fish consumption have analyzed the association by seafood subtype. We evaluated 1,892 and 1,589 mother-child pairs at the ages of 14 months and 5 years, respectively, in a population-based Spanish birth cohort established during 2004-2008. Bayley and McCarthy scales and the Childhood Asperger Syndrome Test were used to assess neuropsychological development. Results from multivariate linear regression models were adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics and further adjusted for umbilical cord blood mercury or long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid concentrations. Overall, consumption of seafood above the recommended limit of 340 g/week was associated with 10-g/week increments in neuropsychological scores. By subtype, in addition to lean fish, consumption of large fatty fish showed a positive association; offspring of persons within the highest quantile (>238 g/week) had an adjusted increase of 2.29 points in McCarthy general cognitive score (95% confidence interval: 0.42, 4.16). Similar findings were observed for the Childhood Asperger Syndrome Test. Beta coefficients diminished 15%-30% after adjustment for mercury or long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid concentrations. Consumption of large fatty fish during pregnancy presents moderate child neuropsychological benefits, including improvements in cognitive functioning and some protection from autism-spectrum traits.
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