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Martins AC, Virgolini MB, Ávila DS, Scharf P, Li J, Tinkov AA, Skalny AV, Bowman AB, Rocha JBT, Aschner M. Mitochondria in the Spotlight: C. elegans as a Model Organism to Evaluate Xenobiotic-Induced Dysfunction. Cells 2023; 12:2124. [PMID: 37681856 PMCID: PMC10486742 DOI: 10.3390/cells12172124] [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: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria play a crucial role in cellular respiration, ATP production, and the regulation of various cellular processes. Mitochondrial dysfunctions have been directly linked to pathophysiological conditions, making them a significant target of interest in toxicological research. In recent years, there has been a growing need to understand the intricate effects of xenobiotics on human health, necessitating the use of effective scientific research tools. Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans), a nonpathogenic nematode, has emerged as a powerful tool for investigating toxic mechanisms and mitochondrial dysfunction. With remarkable genetic homology to mammals, C. elegans has been used in studies to elucidate the impact of contaminants and drugs on mitochondrial function. This review focuses on the effects of several toxic metals and metalloids, drugs of abuse and pesticides on mitochondria, highlighting the utility of C. elegans as a model organism to investigate mitochondrial dysfunction induced by xenobiotics. Mitochondrial structure, function, and dynamics are discussed, emphasizing their essential role in cellular viability and the regulation of processes such as autophagy, apoptosis, and calcium homeostasis. Additionally, specific toxins and toxicants, such as arsenic, cadmium, and manganese are examined in the context of their impact on mitochondrial function and the utility of C. elegans in elucidating the underlying mechanisms. Furthermore, we demonstrate the utilization of C. elegans as an experimental model providing a promising platform for investigating the intricate relationships between xenobiotics and mitochondrial dysfunction. This knowledge could contribute to the development of strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of contaminants and drugs of abuse, ultimately enhancing our understanding of these complex processes and promoting human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Airton C. Martins
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA;
| | - Miriam B. Virgolini
- Departamento de Farmacología Otto Orsingher, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba 5000, Argentina
- Instituto de Farmacología Experimental de Córdoba-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Técnicas (IFEC-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba 5000, Argentina
| | - Daiana Silva Ávila
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Toxicology in Caenorhabditis Elegans, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Campus Uruguaiana, BR-472 Km 592, Uruguaiana 97500-970, RS, Brazil
| | - Pablo Scharf
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Jung Li
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Des Moines University, Des Moines, IA 50312, USA
| | - Alexey A. Tinkov
- Laboratory of Ecobiomonitoring and Quality Control, Yaroslavl State University, Yaroslavl 150003, Russia
- Laboratory of Molecular Dietetics, IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Anatoly V. Skalny
- Laboratory of Ecobiomonitoring and Quality Control, Yaroslavl State University, Yaroslavl 150003, Russia
- Laboratory of Molecular Dietetics, IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow 119435, Russia
- Peoples Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow 117198, Russia
| | - Aaron B. Bowman
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2051, USA
| | - João B. T. Rocha
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria 97105-900, RS, Brazil
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA;
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Liu H, Fu G, Li W, Liu B, Ji X, Zhang S, Qiao K. Oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage induced by a novel pesticide fluopimomide in Caenorhabditis elegans. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:91794-91802. [PMID: 37479935 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28893-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Fluopimomide is a novel pesticide intensively used in agricultural pest control; however, its excessive use may have toxicological effects on non-target organisms. In this study, Caenorhabditis elegans was used to evaluate the toxic effects of fluopimomide and its possible mechanisms. The effects of fluopimomide on the growth, pharyngeal pumping, and antioxidant systems of C. elegans were determined. Furthermore, the gene expression levels associated with mitochondria in the nematodes were also investigated. Results indicated that fluopimomide at 0.2, 1.0, and 5.0 mg/L notably (p < 0.001) decreased body length, pharyngeal pumping, and body bends in the nematodes compared to the untreated control. Additionally, fluopimomide at 0.2, 1.0, and 5.0 mg/L notably (p < 0.05) increased the content of malondialdehyde by 3.30-, 21.24-, and 33.57-fold, respectively, while fluopimomide at 1.0 and 5.0 mg/L significantly (p < 0.001) increased the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by 49.14% and 77.06% compared to the untreated control. In contrast, fluopimomide at 1.0 and 5.0 mg/L notably reduced the activities of target enzyme succinate dehydrogenase and at 5.0 mg/L reduced the activities of antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase. Further evidence revealed that fluopimomide at 1.0 and 5.0 mg/L significantly inhibited oxygen consumption and at 0.2, 1.0, and 5.0 mg/L significantly inhibited ATP level in comparison to the untreated control. The expression of genes related to the mitochondrial electron transport chain mev-1 and isp-1 was significantly downregulated. ROS levels in the mev-1 and isp-1 mutants after fluopimomide treatments did not change significantly compared with the untreated mutants, suggesting that mev-1 and isp-1 may play critical roles in the toxicity induced by fluopimomide. Overall, the results demonstrate that oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage may be involved in toxicity of fluopimomide in C. elegans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide Toxicology & Application Technique, College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, Shandong, China
| | - Guanghan Fu
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide Toxicology & Application Technique, College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, Shandong, China
| | - Wenjing Li
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide Toxicology & Application Technique, College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, Shandong, China
| | - Bingjie Liu
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide Toxicology & Application Technique, College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaoxue Ji
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide Toxicology & Application Technique, College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, Shandong, China
| | - Shouan Zhang
- Tropical Research and Education Center, Department of Plant Pathology, University of Florida, IFAS, Homestead, Gainesville, FL, 33031, USA
| | - Kang Qiao
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide Toxicology & Application Technique, College of Plant Protection, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Huayang Technology Co., Ltd, Tai'an, 271411, Shandong, China.
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Hua X, Feng X, Liang G, Chao J, Wang D. Exposure to 6-PPD Quinone at Environmentally Relevant Concentrations Causes Abnormal Locomotion Behaviors and Neurodegeneration in Caenorhabditis elegans. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:4940-4950. [PMID: 36913653 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c08644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
6-PPD quinone (6-PPDQ) can be transformed from 6-PPD through ozonation. Nevertheless, the potential neurotoxicity of 6-PPDQ after long-term exposure and the underlying mechanism are largely unclear. In Caenorhabditis elegans, we here observed that 0.1-10 μg/L of 6-PPDQ caused several forms of abnormal locomotion behaviors. Meanwhile, the neurodegeneration of D-type motor neurons was observed in 10 μg/L of 6-PPDQ-exposed nematodes. The observed neurodegeneration was associated with the activation of the Ca2+ channel DEG-3-mediated signaling cascade. In this signaling cascade, expressions of deg-3, unc-68, itr-1, crt-1, clp-1, and tra-3 were increased by 10 μg/L of 6-PPDQ. Moreover, among genes encoding neuronal signals required for the control of stress response, expressions of jnk-1 and dbl-1 were decreased by 0.1-10 μg/L of 6-PPDQ, and expressions of daf-7 and glb-10 were decreased by 10 μg/L of 6-PPDQ. RNAi of jnk-1, dbl-1, daf-7, and glb-10 resulted in the susceptibility to 6-PPDQ toxicity in decreasing locomotory ability and in inducing neurodegeneration, suggesting that JNK-1, DBL-1, DAF-7, and GLB-10 were also required for the induction of 6-PPDQ neurotoxicity. Molecular docking analysis further demonstrated the binding potential of 6-PPDQ to DEG-3, JNK-1, DBL-1, DAF-7, and GLB-10. Together, our data suggested the exposure risk of 6-PPDQ at environmentally relevant concentrations in causing neurotoxicity in organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Hua
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiao Feng
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Geyu Liang
- School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jie Chao
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Dayong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
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Chen X, An M, Ye S, Yang Z, Ding Z. The α 2δ Calcium Channel Subunit Accessorily and Independently Affects the Biological Function of Ditylenchus destructor. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:12999. [PMID: 36361788 PMCID: PMC9657823 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232112999] [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: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The α2δ subunit is a high-voltage activated (HVA) calcium channel (Cav1 and Cav2) auxiliary subunit that increases the density and function of HVA calcium channels in the plasma membrane of mammals. However, its function in plant parasitic nematodes remains unknown. In this study, we cloned the full-length cDNA sequence of the voltage-gated calcium channel (VGCC) α2δ subunit (named DdCavα2δ) in Ditylenchus destructor. We found that DdCavα2δ tends to be expressed in the egg stage, followed by the J3 stage. RNA-DIG in situ hybridization experiments showed that the DdCavα2δ subunit was expressed in the body wall, esophageal gland, uterus, post uterine, and spicules of D. destructor. The in vitro application of RNA interference (RNAi) affected the motility, reproduction, chemotaxis, stylet thrusting, and protein secretion of D. destructor to different degrees by targeting DdCα1D, DdCα1A, and DdCavα2δ in J3 stages, respectively. Based on the results of RNAi experiments, it was hypothesized that L-type VGCC may affect the motility, chemotaxis, and stylet thrusting of D. destructor. Non-L-type VGCC may affect the protein secretion and reproduction of D. destructor. The DdCavα2δ subunit gene also affected the motility, chemotaxis, and reproduction of D. destructor. These findings reveal the independent function of the VGCC α2δ subunit in D. destructor as well as give a theoretical foundation for future research on plant parasitic nematode VGCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Zhuhong Yang
- College of Plant Protection, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Zhong Ding
- College of Plant Protection, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
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Long HQ, Gao J, He SQ, Han JF, Tu Y, Chen N. The role of crm-1 in ionizing radiation-induced nervous system dysfunction in Caenorhabditis elegans. Neural Regen Res 2022; 18:1386-1392. [PMID: 36453427 PMCID: PMC9838165 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.357908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Ionizing radiation can cause changes in nervous system function. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In this study, Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) was irradiated with 75 Gy of 60Co whole-body γ radiation. Behavioral indicators (head thrashes, touch avoidance, and foraging), and the development of dopaminergic neurons related to behavioral function, were evaluated to assess the effects of ionizing radiation on nervous system function in C. elegans. Various behaviors were impaired after whole-body irradiation and degeneration of dopamine neurons was observed. This suggests that 75 Gy of γ radiation is sufficient to induce nervous system dysfunction. The genes nhr-76 and crm-1, which are reported to be related to nervous system function in human and mouse, were screened by transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis after irradiation or sham irradiation. The expression levels of these two genes were increased after radiation. Next, RNAi technology was used to inhibit the expression of crm-1, a gene whose homologs are associated with motor neuron development in other species. Downregulation of crm-1 expression effectively alleviated the deleterious effects of ionizing radiation on head thrashes and touch avoidance. It was also found that the expression level of crm-1 was regulated by the nuclear receptor gene nhr-76. The results of this study suggest that knocking down the expression level of nhr-76 can reduce the expression level of crm-1, while down-regulating the expression level of crm-1 can alleviate behavioral disorders induced by ionizing radiation. Therefore, inhibition of crm-1 may be of interest as a potential therapeutic target for ionizing radiation-induced neurological dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Qiang Long
- Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China,State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China,Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jin Gao
- Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China,State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China,Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Shu-Qing He
- Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jian-Fang Han
- Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China,State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China,Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yu Tu
- Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China,State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China,Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China,Correspondence to: Yu Tu, ; Na Chen, .
| | - Na Chen
- Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China,State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China,Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China,Correspondence to: Yu Tu, ; Na Chen, .
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Vinha GL, Plata-Rueda A, Soares MA, Zanuncio JC, Serrão JE, Martínez LC. Deltamethrin-Mediated Effects on Locomotion, Respiration, Feeding, and Histological Changes in the Midgut of Spodoptera frugiperda Caterpillars. INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12060483. [PMID: 34067273 PMCID: PMC8224794 DOI: 10.3390/insects12060483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary Spodoptera frugiperda is controlled mainly with chemical insecticides. Toxicity, survival, respiration, mobility, anti-feeding effect, and histology of the midgut of S. frugiperda caterpillars exposed to deltamethrin were evaluated. Deltamethrin was toxic to third-instar caterpillars, decreasing survival. The insecticide reduces the respiratory rate and food consumption, and causes repellency. Exposure to deltamethrin causes histological alterations in the midgut, damaging the digestive cells and peritrophic matrix. Deltamethrin is toxic to S. frugiperda caterpillars, causing mortality, alteration of locomotor behavior, reduced respiration and feeding, and irreversible damage to the midgut epithelium. Abstract Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is the main pest of maize crops, and effective methods for pest management are needed. The insecticidal efficacy of deltamethrin was evaluated against S. frugiperda for toxicity, survival, locomotion, anti-feeding, and histological changes in the midgut. Concentration–mortality bioassays confirmed that deltamethrin (LC50 = 3.58 mg mL−1) is toxic to S. frugiperda caterpillars. The survival rate was 99.7% in caterpillars not exposed to deltamethrin, decreasing to 50.3% in caterpillars exposed to LC50, and 0.1% in caterpillars treated with LC90. Spodoptera frugiperda demonstrated reduced mobility on deltamethrin-treated surfaces. Deltamethrin promoted a low respiration rate of S. frugiperda for up to 3 h after insecticide exposure, displaying immobilization and inhibiting food consumption. Deltamethrin induces histological alterations (e.g., disorganization of the striated border, cytoplasm vacuolization, and cell fragmentation) in the midgut, damaging the digestive cells and peritrophic matrix, affecting digestion and nutrient absorption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Germano Lopes Vinha
- Department of Crop Science, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa 36570000, Brazil;
| | - Angelica Plata-Rueda
- Department of Entomology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa 36570000, Brazil; (A.P.-R.); (J.C.Z.)
| | - Marcus Alvarenga Soares
- Department of Crop Production, Federal University of Vales Jequitinhonha and Mucuri, Diamantina 39100000, Brazil;
| | - José Cola Zanuncio
- Department of Entomology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa 36570000, Brazil; (A.P.-R.); (J.C.Z.)
| | - José Eduardo Serrão
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa 36570000, Brazil;
| | - Luis Carlos Martínez
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa 36570000, Brazil;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-31-3899-4012
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Ye S, Zeng R, Zhou J, An M, Ding Z. Molecular characterization of Ditylenchus destructor voltage-gated calcium channel α1 subunits and analysis of the effect of their knockdown on nematode activity. Biochimie 2020; 171-172:91-102. [PMID: 32109501 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2020.02.010] [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] [Received: 09/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) mediate the entry of Ca2+ ions into cells in response to membrane depolarization and play fundamental roles in the nervous system, and the α1 subunits are the main subunits of Ca2+ channels. Caenorhabditis elegans possesses genes encoding α1 subunits; however, very few of these genes have been cloned in plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs). Ditylenchus destructor is a PPN that has been proposed as a new model for studying the biology and control of PPNs. To understand the structure and function of the VGCCs of this PPN, we first cloned and identified three full-length cDNAs of VGCC α1 subunit genes in D. destructor with the defining structural and conserved features of Cav1 (L-type), Cav2 (non-L-type) and Cav3 (T-type). In situ hybridization assays demonstrated that the Cav1 VGCC α1 subunit gene (DdCα1D) was expressed within body wall muscles. The Cav2 VGCC α1 subunit (DdCα1A) was expressed in the oesophageal gland, vulva and vas deferens of the worm, and the Cav3 VGCC α1 subunit (DdCα1G) was localized to the oesophagus and median bulb. In addition, on the basis of the in vitro knockdown of L-, non-L- and T-type genes via RNAi, these genes were predicted to play a key role in the modulation of locomotion, feeding and reproduction. After the silencing of DdCα1G, the median bulb muscle of D. destructor was obviously contracted, and its feeding and reproduction abilities were significantly inhibited. This study provides insight into the structure and function of VGCC α1 subunits in D. destructor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Ye
- College of Plant Protection, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, 410128, China; Hunan Provincial Engineering & Technology Research Center for Bio-pesticide and Formulation Processing, Changsha, Hunan, 410128, China
| | - Rune Zeng
- College of Plant Protection, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, 410128, China
| | - Jianyu Zhou
- College of Plant Protection, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, 410128, China
| | - Mingwei An
- College of Plant Protection, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, 410128, China
| | - Zhong Ding
- College of Plant Protection, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, 410128, China; Hunan Provincial Engineering & Technology Research Center for Bio-pesticide and Formulation Processing, Changsha, Hunan, 410128, China.
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Zhu A, Ji Z, Zhao J, Zhang W, Sun Y, Zhang T, Gao S, Li G, Wang Q. Effect of Euphorbia factor L1 on intestinal barrier impairment and defecation dysfunction in Caenorhabditis elegans. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 65:153102. [PMID: 31654989 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2019.153102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 09/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Euphorbia factor L1 (EFL1) is a lathyrane-type diterpenoid from the medicinal herb Euphorbia lathyris L., and has been reported with intestinal toxicity, but the potential mechanisms remain unknown. PURPOSE The objective of this study was to investigate the intestinal toxicity of EFL1 and the underlying mechanisms using nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. METHODS C. elegans were exposed to 0-200 μM EFL1 for 72 h, then the survival rate, body length and body width, locomotion and chemoreception behavior, intestinal ROS and lipofuscin accumulation, intestinal permeability, and defecation rhythm were detected. The γ-aminobutyric acid(GABA) energic neurons AVL and DVB were shown via green fluorescent protein under a laser scanning confocal microscope. The structure of GABA transporter UNC-47 were predicted by homology modeling, and the interaction between EFL1 and UNC-47 was simulated by molecular docking. The mRNA expression of genes related to oxidative stress, intestinal permeability and defecation after EFL1 exposure were detected by RT-qPCR. RESULTS EFL1 did not induce lethality of nematodes. The general toxicity was characterized by abnormal growth, locomotion and chemoreception. The intestinal barrier was leaky, due to down-regulated cell junction and active cation transport. The mean defecation cycle length in nematodes was decreased, relating to disorder vesicular and ion transport, enhanced rhythm behavior and muscle contraction. The dysfunctional defecation also attributed to injured UNC-47 protein, as well as GABAergic neurons AVL and DVB. Excessive ROS and lipofuscin accumulation were observed in intestine, along with activation of antioxidant enzymes of SOD, COQ7 and CAT. CONCLUSION This study elucidated the EFL1-induced intestinal toxicity in nematodes, characterized as leaky intestinal barrier and accelerated defecation behavior. The underlying mechanisms were involved in oxidative stress, cell junctions, transportation, rhythm behavior, muscle contraction, and GABAergic neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- An Zhu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Zonghui Ji
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jingwei Zhao
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Wenjing Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Diagnostic and Traceability Technologies for Food Poisoning, Beijing Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Beijing Center of Preventive Medicine Research, Beijing 100013, China; School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Yuqing Sun
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Shan Gao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Diagnostic and Traceability Technologies for Food Poisoning, Beijing Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Beijing Center of Preventive Medicine Research, Beijing 100013, China
| | - Guojun Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Diagnostic and Traceability Technologies for Food Poisoning, Beijing Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Beijing Center of Preventive Medicine Research, Beijing 100013, China; School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China.
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China; Key Laboratory of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Compatibility Toxicology, Beijing 100191, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing 100191, China.
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9
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Queirós L, Pereira JL, Gonçalves FJ, Pacheco M, Aschner M, Pereira P. Caenorhabditis elegans as a tool for environmental risk assessment: emerging and promising applications for a "nobelized worm". Crit Rev Toxicol 2019; 49:411-429. [PMID: 31268799 PMCID: PMC6823147 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2019.1626801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 05/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Caenorhabditis elegans has been an invaluable model organism in research fields such as developmental biology and neurobiology. Neurotoxicity is one of the subfields greatly profiting from the C. elegans model within biomedical context, while the corresponding potential of the organism applied to environmental studies is relevant but has been largely underexplored. Within the biomedical scope, the implication of metals and organic chemicals with pesticide activity (hereinafter designated as pesticides) in the etiology of several neurodegenerative diseases has been extensively investigated using this nematode as a primary model organism. Additionally, as a well-known experimental model bearing high sensitivity to different contaminants and representing important functional levels in soil and aquatic ecosystems, C. elegans has high potential to be extensively integrated within Environmental Risk Assessment (ERA) routines. In spite of the recognition of some regulatory agencies, this actual step has yet to be made. The purpose of this review is to discuss the major advantages supporting the inclusion of C. elegans in lower tiers of ERA. Special emphasis was given to its sensitivity to metals and pesticides, which is similar to that of other model organisms commonly used in ERA (e.g. Daphnia magna and Eisenia sp.), and to the large array of endpoints that can be tested with the species, both concerning the aquatic and the soil compartments. The inclusion of C. elegans testing may hence represent a relevant advance in ERA, providing ecologically relevant insights toward improvement of the regulatory capacity for establishing appropriate environmental protection benchmarks.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. Queirós
- Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - J. L. Pereira
- Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - F. J.M. Gonçalves
- Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - M. Pacheco
- Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - M. Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - P. Pereira
- Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
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Zhu Y, Zhang R, Zhang B, Zhao T, Wang P, Liang G, Cheng G. Blood meal acquisition enhances arbovirus replication in mosquitoes through activation of the GABAergic system. Nat Commun 2017; 8:1262. [PMID: 29093445 PMCID: PMC5665997 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-01244-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mosquitoes are hematophagous insects that carry-on and transmit many human viruses. However, little information is available regarding the common mechanisms underlying the infection of mosquitoes by these viruses. In this study, we reveal that the hematophagous nature of mosquitoes contributes to arboviral infection after a blood meal, which suppresses antiviral innate immunity by activating the GABAergic pathway. dsRNA-mediated interruption of the GABA signaling and blockage of the GABAA receptor by the specific inhibitors both significantly impaired arbovirus replication. Consistently, inoculation of GABA enhanced arboviral infection, indicating that GABA signaling facilitates the arboviral infection of mosquitoes. The ingestion of blood by mosquitoes resulted in robust GABA production from glutamic acid derived from blood protein digestion. The oral introduction of glutamic acid increased virus acquisition by mosquitoes via activation of the GABAergic system. Our study reveals that blood meals enhance arbovirus replication in mosquitoes through activation of the GABAergic system. Transmission of many human viruses depends on replication in their mosquito vectors. Here, Zhu et al. show that glutamic acid digested from the blood meal activates GABA signaling, resulting in suppression of antiviral innate immunity and increased virus replication in mosquitoes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yibin Zhu
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.,Institute of pathogenic organisms, Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China.,School of Life Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Rudian Zhang
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.,School of Life Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Bei Zhang
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Tongyan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, 100071, China
| | - Penghua Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, 10595, USA
| | - Guodong Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, 102206, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Gong Cheng
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China. .,Institute of pathogenic organisms, Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China.
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