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Saputra F, Kishida M, Hu SY. Nitrate and Nitrite Exposure Induces Visual Impairments in Adult Zebrafish. TOXICS 2024; 12:518. [PMID: 39058170 PMCID: PMC11281020 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12070518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Nitrate and nitrite have emerged as increasingly common environmental pollutants, posing significant risks to various forms of life within ecosystems. To understand their impact on the visual system of zebrafish, adult zebrafish were exposed to environmentally relevant concentrations of nitrate (10 mg/L) and nitrite (1 mg/L) for 7 days. Visual behaviors were examined using optomotor and avoidance response. The eyeballs of the zebrafish were collected for H&E staining, IHC, and qPCR. Exposure decreased visual behavior and the thickness of most retinal layers. Exposure decreased expression of pax6a, pax6b, gpx1a, and bcl2a. Exposure increased expression of esr1, esr1a, esr2b, cyp19a1b, sod1a, nos2a, casps3, and tp53, and increased retinal brain aromatase expression by IHC. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that nitrate and nitrite exposure negatively impacted the visual system of adult zebrafish, highlighting the potential hazards of these environmental pollutants on aquatic organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Febriyansyah Saputra
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 860-8555, Japan;
| | - Mitsuyo Kishida
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 860-8555, Japan;
| | - Shao-Yang Hu
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 912, Taiwan
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2
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Saputra F, Kishida M, Hu SY. Oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide disrupts zebrafish visual development by altering apoptosis, antioxidant and estrogen related genes. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14454. [PMID: 38914633 PMCID: PMC11196719 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64933-5] [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: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hydrogen peroxide is considered deleterious molecule that cause cellular damage integrity and function. Its key redox signaling molecule in oxidative stress and exerts toxicity on a wide range of organisms. Thus, to understand whether oxidative stress alters visual development, zebrafish embryos were exposed to H2O2 at concentration of 0.02 to 62.5 mM for 7 days. Eye to body length ratio (EBR) and apoptosis in retina at 48 hpf, and optomotor response (OMR) at 7 dpf were all measured. To investigate whether hydrogen peroxide-induced effects were mediated by oxidative stress, embryos were co-incubated with the antioxidant, glutathione (GSH) at 50 μM. Results revealed that concentrations of H2O2 at or above 0.1 mM induced developmental toxicity, leading to increased mortality and hatching delay. Furthermore, exposure to 0.1 mM H2O2 decreased EBR at 48 hpf and impaired OMR visual behavior at 7 dpf. Additionally, exposure increased the area of apoptotic cells in the retina at 48 hpf. The addition of GSH reversed the effects of H2O2, suggesting the involvement of oxidative stress. H2O2 decreased the expression of eye development-related genes, pax6α and pax6β. The expression of apoptosis-related genes, tp53, casp3 and bax, significantly increased, while bcl2α expression decreased. Antioxidant-related genes sod1, cat and gpx1a showed decreased expression. Expression levels of estrogen receptors (ERs) (esr1, esr2α, and esr2β) and ovarian and brain aromatase genes (cyp19a1a and cyp19a1b, respectively) were also significantly reduced. Interestingly, co-incubation of GSH effectivity reversed the impact of H2O2 on most parameters. Overall, these results demonstrate that H2O2 induces adverse effects on visual development via oxidative stress, which leads to alter apoptosis, diminished antioxidant defenses and reduced estrogen production.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mitsuyo Kishida
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.
| | - Shao-Yang Hu
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan.
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3
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Gölz L, Pannetier P, Fagundes T, Knörr S, Behnstedt L, Coordes S, Matthiessen P, Morthorst J, Vergauwen L, Knapen D, Holbech H, Braunbeck T, Baumann L. Development of the integrated fish endocrine disruptor test-Part B: Implementation of thyroid-related endpoints. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2024; 20:830-845. [PMID: 37578010 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.4828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Given the vital role of thyroid hormones (THs) in vertebrate development, it is essential to identify chemicals that interfere with the TH system. Whereas, among nonmammalian laboratory animals, fish are the most frequently utilized test species in endocrine disruptor research, for example, in guidelines for the detection of effects on the sex hormone system, there is no test guideline (TG) using fish as models for thyroid-related effects; rather, amphibians are used. Therefore, the objective of the present project was to integrate thyroid-related endpoints for fish into a test protocol combining OECD TGs 229 (Fish Short-Term Reproduction Assay) and 234 (Fish Sexual Development Test). The resulting integrated Fish Endocrine Disruption Test (iFEDT) was designed as a comprehensive approach to covering sexual differentiation, early development, and reproduction and to identifying disruption not only of the sexual and/or reproductive system but also the TH system. Two 85-day exposure tests were performed using different well-studied endocrine disruptors: 6-propyl-2-thiouracil (PTU) and 17α-ethinylestradiol (EE2). Whereas the companion Part A of this study presents the findings on effects by PTU and EE2 on endpoints established in existing TGs, the present Part B discusses effects on novel thyroid-related endpoints such as TH levels, thyroid follicle histopathology, and eye development. 6-Propyl-2-thiouracil induced a massive proliferation of thyroid follicles in any life stage, and histopathological changes in the eyes proved to be highly sensitive for TH system disruption especially in younger life stages. For measurement of THs, further methodological development is required. 17-α-Ethinylestradiol demonstrated not only the well-known disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, but also induced effects on thyroid follicles in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) exposed to higher EE2 concentrations, suggesting crosstalk between endocrine axes. The novel iFEDT has thus proven capable of simultaneously capturing endocrine disruption of both the steroid and thyroid endocrine systems. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:830-845. © 2023 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Gölz
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Section, Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Pauline Pannetier
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Section, Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Laboratoire de Ploufragan-Plouzané-Niort, Site de Plouzané, Agence nationale de sécurité sanitaire de l'alimentation, de l'environnement et du travail, Plouzané, France
| | - Teresa Fagundes
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Section, Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Susanne Knörr
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Section, Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Laura Behnstedt
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Section, Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sara Coordes
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Section, Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Jane Morthorst
- Department of Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Lucia Vergauwen
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Zebrafishlab, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Dries Knapen
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Zebrafishlab, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Henrik Holbech
- Department of Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Thomas Braunbeck
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Section, Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lisa Baumann
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Section, Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment (A-LIFE), Section Environmental Health & Toxicology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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4
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Volz SN, Poulsen R, Hansen M, Holbech H. Bisphenol A alters retinal morphology, visually guided behavior, and thyroid hormone levels in zebrafish larvae. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 348:140776. [PMID: 38000552 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenols are industrial chemicals that are produced in large quantities and have been detected in all parts of the environment as well as in a multitude of different organisms including humans and fish. Several bisphenols, such as bisphenol A (BPA) and bisphenol F, have been shown to disrupt endocrine systems thereby affecting development and reproduction. While numerous studies investigated the effect of bisphenols on estrogen signaling, their impact on the thyroid hormone system (THS), which is vital for neurodevelopment including sensory development, has been explored to a lesser extent. The present work selected BPA as a representative for structurally similar bisphenols and assessed its impact on the THS as well as sensory development and function in zebrafish. To this end, zebrafish were exposed to BPA until up to 8 days post fertilization (dpf) and thyroid hormone levels, eye morphology, and sensory-mediated behaviors were analyzed. Zebrafish larvae exposed to BPA showed altered retinal layering, decreased motility across varying light conditions, and a loss of responsiveness to red light. Furthermore, whole-body levels of the thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and 3,5-diiodothyronine (3,5-T2) were significantly decreased in 5 dpf zebrafish. Taken together, BPA disrupted THS homeostasis and compromised visual development and function, which is pivotal for the survival of fish larvae. This work underlines the necessity for ongoing research on BPA and its numerous substitutes, particularly concerning their effects on the THS and neurodevelopment, to ensure a high level of protection for the environment and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sina N Volz
- Department of Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark.
| | - Rikke Poulsen
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Aarhus, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Martin Hansen
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Aarhus, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Henrik Holbech
- Department of Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark.
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5
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Gölz L, Baumann L, Pannetier P, Braunbeck T, Knapen D, Vergauwen L. AOP Report: Thyroperoxidase Inhibition Leading to Altered Visual Function in Fish Via Altered Retinal Layer Structure. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2022; 41:2632-2648. [PMID: 35942927 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Thyroid hormones (THs) are involved in the regulation of many important physiological and developmental processes, including vertebrate eye development. Thyroid hormone system-disrupting chemicals (THSDCs) may have severe consequences, because proper functioning of the visual system is a key factor for survival in wildlife. However, the sequence of events leading from TH system disruption (THSD) to altered eye development in fish has not yet been fully described. The development of this adverse outcome pathway (AOP) was based on an intensive literature review of studies that focused on THSD and impacts on eye development, mainly in fish. In total, approximately 120 studies (up to the end of 2021) were used in the development of this AOP linking inhibition of the key enzyme for TH synthesis, thyroperoxidase (TPO), to effects on retinal layer structure and visual function in fish (AOP-Wiki, AOP 363). In a weight-of-evidence evaluation, the confidence levels were overall moderate, with ample studies showing the link between reduced TH levels and altered retinal layer structure. However, some uncertainties about the underlying mechanism(s) remain. Although the current weight-of-evidence evaluation is based on fish, the AOP is plausibly applicable to other vertebrate classes. Through the re-use of several building blocks, this AOP is connected to the AOPs leading from TPO and deiodinase inhibition to impaired swim bladder inflation in fish (AOPs 155-159), together forming an AOP network describing THSD in fish. This AOP network addresses the lack of thyroid-related endpoints in existing fish test guidelines for the evaluation of THSDCs. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:2632-2648. © 2022 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Gölz
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Research Group, Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lisa Baumann
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Research Group, Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Pauline Pannetier
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Research Group, Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Braunbeck
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Research Group, Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dries Knapen
- Zebrafishlab, Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Lucia Vergauwen
- Zebrafishlab, Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
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6
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Jessup WH, Wiegand J, Delbridge-Perry M, MacAvoy SE, Connaughton VP. Developmental effects of siloxane exposure in zebrafish: a comparison study using laboratory-mixed and environmental water samples. J Appl Toxicol 2022; 42:1986-2004. [PMID: 35863877 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4369] [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: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Siloxanes are used in personal care, biomedical, and industrial products. Their worldwide use and persistence in the environment cause consistent exposure for both humans and aquatic animals. Two siloxane congeners, decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (D5; CAS 541-02-6) and octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4; CAS 556-67-2), are among the most prevalent, with measurable levels in air, sediment, water, and biological samples. However, few studies have examined the impact of developmental (embryo/larva) exposure. To address this gap, we performed parallel experiments using wildtype zebrafish (Danio rerio). One set of experiments used laboratory-mixed individual solutions containing either D4, D5, or 2,4,6,8-tetramethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4 H ; CAS 2370-88-9); the other used environmental water samples containing a mixture of siloxanes, including D4 and D5. These samples were collected from Bladensburg Waterfront Park (BWP) a site along the Anacostia River, Washington, DC. In both experiments, zebrafish (24-48 hours postfertilization, hpf) were exposed until 7 or 14 days (d)pf. Chronic exposure to D4, D5, or BWP water until 7 dpf caused stress-like behaviors and reduced swim velocities; anatomical differences were noted only in BWP-exposed larvae. At 14 dpf, BWP-treated larvae still showed slower swimming velocities and increased immobility; anatomical differences were no longer evident and thigmotactic behavior was reduced. D4 and D5-exposed larvae did not survive after 10 dpf. Larvae exposed to D4 H showed no decreases in behavior or growth at either age. These results suggest early developmental sensitivity to siloxane exposure and point to the need to consider embryonic/larval endpoints when assessing aquatic contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jenna Wiegand
- Departments of Environmental Science, American University, Washington, DC
| | | | - Stephen E MacAvoy
- Departments of Environmental Science, American University, Washington, DC
| | - Victoria P Connaughton
- Departments of Biology, American University, Washington, DC.,Center for Neuroscience and Behavior, American University, Washington, DC
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7
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Cohen A, Popowitz J, Delbridge-Perry M, Rowe CJ, Connaughton VP. The Role of Estrogen and Thyroid Hormones in Zebrafish Visual System Function. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:837687. [PMID: 35295340 PMCID: PMC8918846 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.837687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Visual system development is a highly complex process involving coordination of environmental cues, cell pathways, and integration of functional circuits. Consequently, a change to any step, due to a mutation or chemical exposure, can lead to deleterious consequences. One class of chemicals known to have both overt and subtle effects on the visual system is endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs). EDCs are environmental contaminants which alter hormonal signaling by either preventing compound synthesis or binding to postsynaptic receptors. Interestingly, recent work has identified neuronal and sensory systems, particularly vision, as targets for EDCs. In particular, estrogenic and thyroidogenic signaling have been identified as critical modulators of proper visual system development and function. Here, we summarize and review this work, from our lab and others, focusing on behavioral, physiological, and molecular data collected in zebrafish. We also discuss different exposure regimes used, including long-lasting effects of developmental exposure. Overall, zebrafish are a model of choice to examine the impact of EDCs and other compounds targeting estrogen and thyroid signaling and the consequences of exposure in visual system development and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annastelle Cohen
- Department of Biology, American University, Washington, DC, WA, United States
| | - Jeremy Popowitz
- Department of Biology, American University, Washington, DC, WA, United States
| | | | - Cassie J. Rowe
- Department of Biology, American University, Washington, DC, WA, United States,Center for Neuroscience and Behavior, American University, Washington, DC, WA, United States
| | - Victoria P. Connaughton
- Department of Biology, American University, Washington, DC, WA, United States,Center for Neuroscience and Behavior, American University, Washington, DC, WA, United States,*Correspondence: Victoria P. Connaughton,
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8
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Bernardo RC, Connaughton VP. Transient developmental exposure to tributyltin reduces optomotor responses in larval zebrafish (Danio rerio). Neurotoxicol Teratol 2022; 89:107055. [PMID: 34896240 PMCID: PMC8755603 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2021.107055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This study determined the effects of transient developmental exposure to tributyltin (TBT), a well-known anti-estrogenic environmental endocrine disrupting compound, on visual system development of larval zebrafish (Danio rerio). Zebrafish were exposed to either 0.2 μg/L or 20 μg/L TBT for 24 h when they were aged 24 h postfertilization (hpf), 72 hpf, or 7 days (d)pf. Immediately after exposure, larvae were transferred to system water for seven days of recovery followed by behavioral testing (startle and optomotor responses) and morphological assessment. TBT-treated larvae displayed age-dependent changes in morphology characterized by delayed/reduced growth and susceptibility to exposure. TBT exposure reduced the number of larvae displaying optomotor responses regardless of age of exposure; eye diameter was also decreased when exposure occurred at 24 hpf or 7 dpf. Startle responses were reduced only in TBT-treated larvae exposed when they were 24 hpf, suggesting transient TBT exposure during the early larval period may cause vision-specific effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel C. Bernardo
- Department of Biology, American University, Washington, DC 20016, USA.,Department of Health Studies, American University, Washington, DC 20016, USA
| | - Victoria P. Connaughton
- Department of Biology, American University, Washington, DC 20016, USA.,Corresponding author: VP Connaughton, Dept of Biology, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20016, 202-885-2188,
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9
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Crowley-Perry M, Barberio AJ, Zeino J, Winston ER, Connaughton VP. Zebrafish Optomotor Response and Morphology Are Altered by Transient, Developmental Exposure to Bisphenol-A. J Dev Biol 2021; 9:jdb9020014. [PMID: 33918232 PMCID: PMC8167563 DOI: 10.3390/jdb9020014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen-specific endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) are potent modulators of neural and visual development and common environmental contaminants. Using zebrafish, we examined the long-term impact of abnormal estrogenic signaling by testing the effects of acute, early exposure to bisphenol-A (BPA), a weak estrogen agonist, on later visually guided behaviors. Zebrafish aged 24 h postfertilization (hpf), 72 hpf, and 7 days postfertilization (dpf) were exposed to 0.001 μM or 0.1 μM BPA for 24 h, and then allowed to recover for 1 or 2 weeks. Morphology and optomotor responses (OMRs) were assessed after 1 and 2 weeks of recovery for 24 hpf and 72 hpf exposure groups; 7 dpf exposure groups were additionally assessed immediately after exposure. Increased notochord length was seen in 0.001 μM exposed larvae and decreased in 0.1 μM exposed larvae across all age groups. Positive OMR was significantly increased at 1 and 2 weeks post-exposure in larvae exposed to 0.1 μM BPA when they were 72 hpf or 7 dpf, while positive OMR was increased after 2 weeks of recovery in larvae exposed to 0.001 μM BPA at 72 hpf. A time-delayed increase in eye diameter occurred in both BPA treatment groups at 72 hpf exposure; while a transient increase occurred in 7 dpf larvae exposed to 0.1 μM BPA. Overall, short-term developmental exposure to environmentally relevant BPA levels caused concentration- and age-dependent effects on zebrafish visual anatomy and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikayla Crowley-Perry
- Department of Biology, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA; (M.C.-P.); (A.J.B.); (J.Z.); (E.R.W.)
- Department of Chemistry, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA
| | - Angelo J. Barberio
- Department of Biology, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA; (M.C.-P.); (A.J.B.); (J.Z.); (E.R.W.)
| | - Jude Zeino
- Department of Biology, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA; (M.C.-P.); (A.J.B.); (J.Z.); (E.R.W.)
| | - Erica R. Winston
- Department of Biology, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA; (M.C.-P.); (A.J.B.); (J.Z.); (E.R.W.)
| | - Victoria P. Connaughton
- Department of Biology, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA; (M.C.-P.); (A.J.B.); (J.Z.); (E.R.W.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-202-885-2188
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10
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LeFauve MK, Rowe CJ, Crowley-Perry M, Wiegand JL, Shapiro AG, Connaughton VP. Using a variant of the optomotor response as a visual defect detection assay in zebrafish. J Biol Methods 2021; 8:e144. [PMID: 33604396 PMCID: PMC7884848 DOI: 10.14440/jbm.2021.341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe a visual stimulus that can be used with both larval and adult zebrafish (Danio rerio). This protocol is a modification of a standard visual behavior analysis, the optomotor response (OMR). The OMR is often used to determine the spatial response or to detect directional visuomotor deficiencies. An OMR can be generated using a high contrast grated pattern, typically vertical bars. The spatial sensitivity is measured by detection and response to a change in grating bar width and is reported in cycles per degree (CPD). This test has been used extensively with zebrafish larvae and adults to identify visual- and/or motor-based mutations. Historically, when tested in adults, the grated pattern was presented from a vertical perspective, using a rotating cylinder around a holding tank, allowing the grating to be seen solely from the sides and front of the organism. In contrast, OMRs in zebrafish larvae are elicited using a stimulus projected below the fish. This difference in methodology means that two different experimental set-ups are required: one for adults and one for larvae. Our visual stimulus modifies the stimulation format so that a single OMR stimulus, suitable for use with both adults and larvae, is being presented underneath the fish. Analysis of visuomotor responses using this method does not require costly behavioral tracking software and, using a single behavioral paradigm, allows the observer to rapidly determine visual spatial response in both zebrafish larvae and adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew K LeFauve
- Department of Biological Sciences, George Washington University, 800 22 St NW, Washington, DC 20052, USA.,Department of Biology, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA
| | - Cassie J Rowe
- Department of Biology, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA.,Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA
| | - Mikayla Crowley-Perry
- Department of Biology, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA.,Department of Chemistry, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA
| | - Jenna L Wiegand
- Department of Biology, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA
| | - Arthur G Shapiro
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA.,Department of Psychology, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA.,Department of Computer Science, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA
| | - Victoria P Connaughton
- Department of Biology, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA.,Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA
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11
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Wang Y, Liu W, Yuan B, Yin X, Li Y, Li Z, Cui J, Yuan X, Li Y. The Application of Methylprednisolone Nanoscale Zirconium-Porphyrin Metal-Organic Framework (MPS-NPMOF) in the Treatment of Photoreceptor Degeneration. Int J Nanomedicine 2019; 14:9763-9776. [PMID: 31849467 PMCID: PMC6911332 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s225992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Photoreceptor degeneration is one of the most refractory oculopathy in the world, leading to vision loss in severe cases. Methyprednisolone is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for the treatment of retinal degenerative diseases, either by oral administration or repeated intraocular injections. However, the efficacy was unsatisfactory due to its systemic or local side effects and short retention time within the retina. Methods Nanoscale zirconium-porphyrin metal-organic framework (NPMOF) was synthesized and characterized. The biotoxicity and imaging capability of NPMOF were evaluated using zebrafish embryos and larvae. NPMOF was then used as a skeleton and loaded with methylprednisolone (MPS) to prepare a novel kind of nanoparticle, MPS-NPMOF. Photoreceptor degeneration was induced by high-intensity light exposure in adult zebrafish. MPS-NPMOF was delivered to the injured retina by intraocular injection. The photoreceptor regeneration and its underlying mechanism were explored by immunohistochemistry, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and behavioral test. Results NPMOF not only had low biotoxicity but also emitted bright fluorescence. Following a single MPS-NPMOF intraocular injection, the injured retina exhibited the faster photoreceptor regeneration with better visual function by promoting the cell proliferation. Conclusion NPMOF is an ideal carrier and could be applied in tracking and delivering medications. By intraocular injection, the novel drug delivery system, MPS-NPMOF, accomplishes the sustained release of drug and plays a therapeutic role in photoreceptor degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajie Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Neurovascular Regulation, Nankai University School of Medicine, Tianjin 300071, People's Republic of China.,Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Nankai University Eye Hospital, Tianjin 300020, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biosensing and Molecular Recognition, Nankai University College of Chemistry, Tianjin 300071, People's Republic of China.,Tianjin University School of Science, Tianjin 300072, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Yuan
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Neurovascular Regulation, Nankai University School of Medicine, Tianjin 300071, People's Republic of China.,Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Nankai University Eye Hospital, Tianjin 300020, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuebo Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biosensing and Molecular Recognition, Nankai University College of Chemistry, Tianjin 300071, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiming Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Neurovascular Regulation, Nankai University School of Medicine, Tianjin 300071, People's Republic of China
| | - Zongjin Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Neurovascular Regulation, Nankai University School of Medicine, Tianjin 300071, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianlin Cui
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Neurovascular Regulation, Nankai University School of Medicine, Tianjin 300071, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyong Yuan
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Nankai University Eye Hospital, Tianjin 300020, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuhao Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment and Neurovascular Regulation, Nankai University School of Medicine, Tianjin 300071, People's Republic of China.,Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin 300192, People's Republic of China
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Gould CJ, Saldanha CJ, Connaughton VP. Acute exposure to 4-OH-A, not PCB 1254, alters brain aromatase activity but does not adversely affect growth in zebrafish. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2019; 68:133-140. [PMID: 30889543 PMCID: PMC6516860 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2019.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Acute developmental exposure to pharmaceuticals or environmental contaminants can have deleterious, long lasting effects. Many of these compounds are endocrine disruptors (EDCs) that target estrogen signaling, with effects on reproductive and non-reproductive tissues. We recently reported that zebrafish larvae transiently exposed to the pharmaceutical EDC 4-OH-A display visual deficits as adults. Here, we examine whether these long-term effects are due to compound-induced morphological and/or cellular changes. Zebrafish aged 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, or 7 days post-fertilization (larvae) or 3-4mos (adults) were exposed to either 4-OH-A or PCB1254 for 24 h. After that time, notochord length, eye diameter, inter-eye distance, and heart rate were measured from larvae; and aromatase (estrogen synthase) activity was measured in homogenates of adult brain tissue. In general, indices of larval growth and development were not altered by 24 h exposure to either compound. 4-OH-A potently inhibited aromatase activity, while PCB1254 did not, with inhibition continuing even after removal from treatment. These results support differential function of EDCs and indicate that developmental exposure to 4-OH-A causes sustained inhibition of aromatase, which could be associated with altered adult behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassie J Gould
- Department of Biology, American University, Washington, DC, United States; Behavior, Cognition & Neuroscience Program, American University, Washington, DC, United States; Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, American University, Washington, DC, United States.
| | - Colin J Saldanha
- Department of Biology, American University, Washington, DC, United States; Behavior, Cognition & Neuroscience Program, American University, Washington, DC, United States; Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, American University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Victoria P Connaughton
- Department of Biology, American University, Washington, DC, United States; Behavior, Cognition & Neuroscience Program, American University, Washington, DC, United States; Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, American University, Washington, DC, United States
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