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Korolenko A, Skinner MK. Generational stability of epigenetic transgenerational inheritance facilitates adaptation and evolution. Epigenetics 2024; 19:2380929. [PMID: 39104183 PMCID: PMC11305060 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2024.2380929] [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: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 06/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The epigenome and epigenetic inheritance were not included in the original modern synthesis theory or more recent extended evolutionary synthesis of evolution. In a broad range of species, the environment has been shown to play a significant role in natural selection, which more recently has been shown to occur through epigenetic alterations and epigenetic inheritance. However, even with this evidence, the field of epigenetics and epigenetic inheritance has been left out of modern evolutionary synthesis, as well as other current evolutionary models. Epigenetic mechanisms can direct the regulation of genetic processes (e.g. gene expression) and also can be directly changed by the environment. In contrast, DNA sequence cannot be directly altered by the environment. The goal of this review is to present the evidence of how epigenetics and epigenetic inheritance can alter phenotypic variation in numerous species. This can occur at a significantly higher frequency than genetic change, so correlates with the frequency of evolutionary change. In addition, the concept and importance of generational stability of transgenerational inheritance is incorporated into evolutionary theory. For there to be a better understanding of evolutionary biology, we must incorporate all aspects of molecular (e.g. genetics and epigenetics) and biological sciences (e.g. environment and adaptation).
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Korolenko
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Michael K. Skinner
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
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2
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Stephens VR, Moore RE, Spicer SK, Talbert JA, Lu J, Chinni R, Chambers SA, Townsend SD, Manning SD, Rogers LM, Aronoff DM, Vue Z, Neikirk K, Hinton AO, Damo SM, Noble KN, Eastman AJ, McCallister MM, Osteen KG, Gaddy JA. Environmental Toxicant Exposure Paralyzes Human Placental Macrophage Responses to Microbial Threat. ACS Infect Dis 2023; 9:2401-2408. [PMID: 37955242 PMCID: PMC11380109 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.3c00490] [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] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to environmental toxicants (such as dioxins) has been epidemiologically linked to adverse reproductive health outcomes, including placental inflammation and preterm birth. However, the molecular underpinnings that govern these outcomes in gravid reproductive tissues remain largely unclear. Placental macrophages (also known as Hofbauer cells) are crucial innate immune cells that defend the gravid reproductive tract and help promote maternal-fetal tolerance. We hypothesized that exposure to environmental toxicants such as 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) could alter placental macrophage responses to inflammatory insults such as infection. To test this, placental macrophages were cultured in the presence or absence of TCDD and then infected with the perinatal pathogen Group B Streptococcus (GBS). Our results indicate that TCDD is lethal to placental macrophages at and above a 5 nM concentration and that sublethal dioxin exposure inhibits phagocytosis and cytokine production. Taken together, these results indicate that TCDD paralyzes placental macrophage responses to bacterial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria R Stephens
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Rebecca E Moore
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Sabrina K Spicer
- Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37240, United States
| | - Julie A Talbert
- Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37240, United States
| | - Jacky Lu
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California 94304, United States
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90027, United States
| | - Riya Chinni
- Department of Medicine, Health, and Society, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, United States
| | - Schuyler A Chambers
- Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37240, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California 94305, United States
| | - Steven D Townsend
- Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37240, United States
| | - Shannon D Manning
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, United States
| | - Lisa M Rogers
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, United States
| | - David M Aronoff
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, United States
| | - Zer Vue
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Kit Neikirk
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Antentor O Hinton
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Steven M Damo
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37205, United States
- Center for Structural Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37205, United States
- Department of Life and Physical Sciences, Fisk University, Nashville, Tennessee 37208, United States
| | - Kristen N Noble
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Alison J Eastman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Monique M McCallister
- Department of Biological Sciences, Tennessee State University, Nashville, Tennessee 37209, United States
| | - Kevin G Osteen
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee 37208, United States
- Tennessee Valley Health Systems, Department of Veterans Affairs, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, United States
| | - Jennifer A Gaddy
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Department of Medicine, Health, and Society, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37235, United States
- Tennessee Valley Health Systems, Department of Veterans Affairs, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, United States
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Domingues RR, Wiltbank MC, Hernandez LL. Maternal serotonin: implications for the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors during gestation†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:17-28. [PMID: 37098165 PMCID: PMC10344603 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal use of antidepressants has increased throughout the last decades; selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) are the most prescribed antidepressants. Despite the widespread use of SSRI by women during reproductive age and pregnant women, an increasing amount of research warns of possible detrimental effects of maternal use of SSRI during pregnancy including low birthweight/small for gestational age and preterm birth. In this review, we revisited the impact of maternal use of SSRI during pregnancy, its impact on serotonin homeostasis in the maternal and fetal circulation and the placenta, and its impact on pregnancy outcomes-particularly intrauterine growth restriction and preterm birth. Maternal use of SSRI increases maternal and fetal serotonin. The increase in maternal circulating serotonin and serotonin signaling likely promotes vasoconstriction of the uterine and placental vascular beds decreasing blood perfusion to the uterus and consequently to the placenta and fetus with potential impact on placental function and fetal development. Several adverse pregnancy outcomes are similar between women, sheep, and rodents (decreased placental size, decreased birthweight, shorter gestation length/preterm birth, neonatal morbidity, and mortality) highlighting the importance of animal studies to assess the impacts of SSRI. Herein, we address the complex interactions between maternal SSRI use during gestation, circulating serotonin, and the regulation of blood perfusion to the uterus and fetoplacental unit, fetal growth, and pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael R Domingues
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Milo C Wiltbank
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Laura L Hernandez
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Endocrinology and Reproductive Physiology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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Endocrine Disruptor Compounds in Environment: Focus on Women’s Reproductive Health and Endometriosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065682. [PMID: 36982755 PMCID: PMC10058284 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent gynecologic illness that has long-term effects on a woman’s fertility, physical health, and overall quality of life. Growing evidence suggests that endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) may be etiologically involved in the development and severity of the disease. We consider the available human evidence on EDCs and endometriosis, limiting ourselves to studies that have individually assessed chemical amounts in women. Dioxins, BPA, Phthalates, and other endocrine disruptors, like DDT, are among the evidence indicating an environmental etiology for endometriosis. Collectively, this review describes how environmental toxins are linked to lower fertility in women, as well as a number of reproductive diseases, focusing on the pathology of endometriosis and its treatments. Importantly, this review can be used to investigate techniques for preventing the negative effects of EDC exposure.
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Singh NP, Yang X, Bam M, Nagarkatti M, Nagarkatti P. 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin induces multigenerational alterations in the expression of microRNA in the thymus through epigenetic modifications. PNAS NEXUS 2023; 2:pgac290. [PMID: 36712935 PMCID: PMC9833045 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgac290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), a potent AhR ligand, is an environmental contaminant that is known for mediating toxicity across generations. However, whether TCDD can induce multigenerational changes in the expression of microRNAs (miRs) has not been previously studied. In the current study, we investigated the effect of administration of TCDD in pregnant mice (F0) on gestational day 14, on the expression of miRs in the thymus of F0 and subsequent generations (F1 and F2). Of the 3200 miRs screened, 160 miRs were dysregulated similarly in F0, F1, and F2 generations, while 46 miRs were differentially altered in F0 to F2 generations. Pathway analysis revealed that the changes in miR signature profile mediated by TCDD affected the genes that regulate cell signaling, apoptosis, thymic atrophy, cancer, immunosuppression, and other physiological pathways. A significant number of miRs that showed altered expression exhibited dioxin response elements (DRE) on their promoters. Focusing on one such miR, namely miR-203 that expressed DREs and was induced across F0 to F2 by TCDD, promoter analysis showed that one of the DREs expressed by miR-203 was functional to TCDD-mediated upregulation. Also, the histone methylation status of H3K4me3 in the miR-203 promoter was significantly increased near the transcriptional start site in TCDD-treated thymocytes across F0 to F2 generations. Genome-wide chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing study suggested that TCDD may cause alterations in histone methylation in certain genes across the three generations. Together, the current study demonstrates that gestational exposure to TCDD can alter the expression of miRs in F0 through direct activation of DREs as well as across F0, F1, and F2 generations through epigenetic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narendra P Singh
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Xiaoming Yang
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Marpe Bam
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Mitzi Nagarkatti
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Prakash Nagarkatti
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
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Švorcová J. Transgenerational Epigenetic Inheritance of Traumatic Experience in Mammals. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:120. [PMID: 36672861 PMCID: PMC9859285 DOI: 10.3390/genes14010120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, we have seen an increasing amount of evidence pointing to the existence of a non-genetic heredity of the effects of events such as separation from parents, threat to life, or other traumatising experiences such as famine. This heredity is often mediated by epigenetic regulations of gene expression and may be transferred even across several generations. In this review, we focus on studies which involve transgenerational epigenetic inheritance (TEI), with a short detour to intergenerational studies focused on the inheritance of trauma or stressful experiences. The reviewed studies show a plethora of universal changes which stress exposure initiates on multiple levels of organisation ranging from hormonal production and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis modulation all the way to cognition, behaviour, or propensity to certain psychiatric or metabolic disorders. This review will also provide an overview of relevant methodology and difficulties linked to implementation of epigenetic studies. A better understanding of these processes may help us elucidate the evolutionary pathways which are at work in the course of emergence of the diseases and disorders associated with exposure to trauma, either direct or in a previous generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Švorcová
- Department of Philosophy and History of Science, Faculty of Science, Charles University, 128 00 Prague, Czech Republic
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Al-Griw MA, Zaed SM, Hdud IM, Shaibi T. Vitamin D ameliorates liver pathology in mice caused by exposure to endocrine disruptor bisphenol A. Open Vet J 2023; 13:90-98. [PMID: 36777431 PMCID: PMC9897508 DOI: 10.5455/ovj.2023.v13.i1.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Increasing evidence suggests that bisphenol A (BPA) induces liver pathological changes. Further, an association between BPA and circulating vitamin D (VitD) levels were documented. Aim The role of VitD in BPA-induced liver pathological changes was explored in this study. Methods Healthy 4.5-week-old male (n = 35) and female (n = 35) Swiss albino mice were used in this study. The animals were randomly divided into control and treated groups. The control groups were further divided into sham (no treatment) and vehicle (corn oil), whereas the treated groups were also divided into VitD (2195 U/kg), BPA (50 μg/kg), and BPA + VitD (50 μg/kg + 2195 U/kg) groups. For 6 weeks (twice a week), the animals were dosed intraperitoneally. One week later (at 10.5-weeks-old), the animals were sacrificed for biochemical and histological analyses. Results BPA produced a considerable rise in the body and liver weights in both genders of mice when compared to control mice. BPA also caused significant increases in the liver damage markers alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT). It also induced liver histopathological changes, including higher apoptotic indices in both genders. On the other hand, treatment with VitD considerably reduced liver damage and slightly decreased the apoptotic index rate. The ALP, ALT, and GGT levels were also markedly reduced. VitD has been proven to have a protective effect on both genders. Conclusions According to our findings, VitD protects mice from BPA-induced liver damage, possibly via suppressing liver damage markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A. Al-Griw
- Department of Histology and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tripoli, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Suhila M. Zaed
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, University of Tripoli, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Ismail M. Hdud
- Department of Pathology and Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tripoli, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Taher Shaibi
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, University of Tripoli, Tripoli, Libya,Corresponding Author: Taher Shaibi. Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, University of Tripoli, Tripoli, Libya.
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8
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Zhao Y, Chen J, Wang R, Pu X, Wang D. A review of transgenerational and multigenerational toxicology in the in vivo model animal Caenorhabditis elegans. J Appl Toxicol 2023; 43:122-145. [PMID: 35754092 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
A large number of pollutants existing in the environment can last for a long time, and their potential toxic effects can transfer from parents to their offspring. Thus, it is necessary to investigate the toxicity of environmental pollutants across multigenerations and the underlying mechanisms in organisms. Due to its short life cycle and sensitivity to environmental exposures, Caenorhabditis elegans is an important animal model for toxicity assessment of environmental pollutants across multigenerations. In this review, we introduced the transgenerational and multigenerational toxicity caused by various environmental pollutants in C. elegans. Moreover, we discussed the underlying mechanisms for the observed transgenerational and multigenerational toxicity of environmental contaminants in C. elegans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunli Zhao
- Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,School of Public Health, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Jingya Chen
- School of Public Health, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Rui Wang
- School of Public Health, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Pu
- School of Public Health, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Dayong Wang
- Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
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Verdikt R, Armstrong AA, Allard P. Transgenerational inheritance and its modulation by environmental cues. Curr Top Dev Biol 2022; 152:31-76. [PMID: 36707214 PMCID: PMC9940302 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2022.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The epigenome plays an important role in shaping phenotypes. However, whether the environment can alter an organism's phenotype across several generations through epigenetic remodeling in the germline is still a highly debated topic. In this chapter, we briefly review the mechanisms of epigenetic inheritance and their connection with germline development before highlighting specific developmental windows of susceptibility to environmental cues. We further discuss the evidence of transgenerational inheritance to a range of different environmental cues, both epidemiological in humans and experimental in rodent models. Doing so, we pinpoint the current challenges in demonstrating transgenerational inheritance to environmental cues and offer insight in how recent technological advances may help deciphering the epigenetic mechanisms at play. Together, we draw a detailed picture of how our environment can influence our epigenomes, ultimately reshaping our phenotypes, in an extended theory of inheritance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxane Verdikt
- Institute for Society and Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States.
| | - Abigail A Armstrong
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology and Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Patrick Allard
- Institute for Society and Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States.
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Morris JR, Plowden TC, Green LJ, Edwards DRV, Jackson-Bey T. Racial and Ethnic Variation in Genetic Susceptibility: Are Disparities in Infertility Prevalence and Outcomes more than Black and White? Reprod Sci 2022; 29:2081-2083. [PMID: 35482220 PMCID: PMC9287248 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-00956-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Race, as a social construct without a clear genetic underpinning, is frequently referenced in medicine as predictor of multiple diseases including that of infertility. The authors will discuss how systematic racism can have downstream consequences ranging from overt physician bias to use of medical algorithms that may potentiate the same disparities they attempt to narrow. Then, the authors explore the utility and pragmatic use of genetic ancestry to estimate disease prevalence, instead of racial categories. Finally, the authors explore how health inequities, rooted in systematic racism, can influence disease heritability effectively advocating for research to disentangle the contributions of racism to genetic susceptibility in infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerrine R Morris
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, 499 Illinois Street, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA.
| | - Torie Comeaux Plowden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Lisa J Green
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Greenville, SC, USA
- Fertility Center of the Carolinas-Greenville, Greenville, SC, USA
| | - Digna R Velez Edwards
- Division of Quantitative Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Tia Jackson-Bey
- Reproductive Medicine Associates of New York, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Science, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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Stephens VR, Rumph JT, Ameli S, Bruner-Tran KL, Osteen KG. The Potential Relationship Between Environmental Endocrine Disruptor Exposure and the Development of Endometriosis and Adenomyosis. Front Physiol 2022; 12:807685. [PMID: 35153815 PMCID: PMC8832054 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.807685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Women with endometriosis, the growth of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterus, commonly also exhibit adenomyosis, the growth of endometrial tissues within the uterine muscle. Each disease is associated with functional alterations in the eutopic endometrium frequently leading to pain, reduced fertility, and an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Although the precise etiology of either disease is poorly understood, evidence suggests that the presence of endometriosis may be a contributing factor to the subsequent development of adenomyosis as a consequence of an altered, systemic inflammatory response. Herein, we will discuss the potential role of exposure to environmental toxicants with endocrine disrupting capabilities in the pathogenesis of both endometriosis and adenomyosis. Numerous epidemiology and experimental studies support a role for environmental endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in the development of endometriosis; however, only a few studies have examined the potential relationship between toxicant exposures and the risk of adenomyosis. Nevertheless, since women with endometriosis are also frequently found to have adenomyosis, discussion of EDC exposure and development of each of these diseases is relevant. We will discuss the potential mechanisms by which EDCs may act to promote the co-development of endometriosis and adenomyosis. Understanding the disease-promoting mechanisms of environmental toxicants related to endometriosis and adenomyosis is paramount to designing more effective treatment(s) and preventative strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria R. Stephens
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Jelonia T. Rumph
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Sharareh Ameli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Kaylon L. Bruner-Tran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Kevin G. Osteen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
- VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, TN, United States
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African Forest-Fringe Farmers Benefit from Modern Farming Practices despite High Environmental Impacts. LAND 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/land11020145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Agricultural expansion has led to a significant loss of habitat and biodiversity in Ghana and throughout West Africa and the tropics generally. Most farmers adopt both organic and inorganic inputs to boost production, with the potential to slow agricultural expansion, but with relatively little consideration of related environmental impacts. In Ghana, where high-input modern farming is rapidly overtaking traditional organic agricultural practices, we examined five stakeholder groups in regard to their perceptions of the environmental, economic, and social costs and benefits of modern, mixed-input, and traditional farming systems. The stakeholder groups included farmers adopting different agricultural practices, as well as governmental and non-governmental natural resource managers. Our findings indicate that the overall perceived costs of modern farming, attributable to large quantities of inorganic inputs, are higher than the overall perceived benefits. Farmers are, however, still motivated to practice modern farming because of perceived higher returns on investment, regardless of environmental impacts, which they tend to discount. Traditional farmers do not use inorganic inputs and instead rely on swidden ‘slash-and-burn’ practices, resulting in declining productivity and soil fertility over time. Since traditional farmers are ultimately forced to encroach into nearby forests to maintain productivity, the perceived environmental sustainability of such farming systems is also limited. Mixed-input farming is not significantly different from modern farming with respect to its perceived environmental and economic traits, because it incorporates agro-chemicals alongside organic practices. Stakeholders’ perceptions and the apparent environmental outcomes of different farming systems suggest that reducing the use of inorganic inputs and promoting the adoption of organic inputs could minimise the negative impacts of agro-chemicals on the forest environment without necessarily compromising productivity. Campaigns to promote low-input or organic agriculture on environmental grounds in West Africa may falter if they fail to recognise farmers’ relatively favourable perceptions of the environmental implications of modern farming practices.
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Rumph JT, Rayford KJ, Stephens VR, Ameli S, Nde PN, Osteen KG, Bruner-Tran KL. A Preconception Paternal Fish Oil Diet Prevents Toxicant-Driven New Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia in Neonatal Mice. TOXICS 2021; 10:7. [PMID: 35051049 PMCID: PMC8778469 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
New bronchopulmonary dysplasia is a developmental lung disease associated with placental dysfunction and impaired alveolarization. Risk factors for new BPD include prematurity, delayed postnatal growth, the dysregulation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and parental exposure to toxicants. Our group previously reported that a history of paternal toxicant exposure increased the risk of prematurity and low birth weight in offspring. A history of paternal toxicant exposure also increased the offspring's risk of new BPD and disease severity was increased in offspring who additionally received a supplemental formula diet, which has also been linked to poor lung development. Risk factors associated with new BPD are well-defined, but it is unclear whether the disease can be prevented. Herein, we assessed whether a paternal fish oil diet could attenuate the development of new BPD in the offspring of toxicant exposed mice, with and without neonatal formula feeding. We investigated the impact of a paternal fish oil diet preconception because we previously reported that this intervention reduces the risk of TCDD associated placental dysfunction, prematurity, and low birth weight. We found that a paternal fish oil diet significantly reduced the risk of new BPD in neonatal mice with a history of paternal toxicant exposure regardless of neonatal diet. Furthermore, our evidence suggests that the protective effects of a paternal fish oil diet are mediated in part by the modulation of small molecules involved in EMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelonia T. Rumph
- Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 1161 21st Ave S, MCN B-1100, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; (J.T.R.); (V.R.S.); (S.A.); (K.G.O.)
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Physiology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN 37208, USA; (K.J.R.); (P.N.N.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37208, USA
| | - Kayla J. Rayford
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Physiology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN 37208, USA; (K.J.R.); (P.N.N.)
| | - Victoria R. Stephens
- Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 1161 21st Ave S, MCN B-1100, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; (J.T.R.); (V.R.S.); (S.A.); (K.G.O.)
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37208, USA
| | - Sharareh Ameli
- Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 1161 21st Ave S, MCN B-1100, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; (J.T.R.); (V.R.S.); (S.A.); (K.G.O.)
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37208, USA
| | - Pius N. Nde
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Physiology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN 37208, USA; (K.J.R.); (P.N.N.)
| | - Kevin G. Osteen
- Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 1161 21st Ave S, MCN B-1100, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; (J.T.R.); (V.R.S.); (S.A.); (K.G.O.)
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37208, USA
- VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, TN 37208, USA
| | - Kaylon L. Bruner-Tran
- Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 1161 21st Ave S, MCN B-1100, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; (J.T.R.); (V.R.S.); (S.A.); (K.G.O.)
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Gaspari L, Paris F, Kalfa N, Soyer-Gobillard MO, Sultan C, Hamamah S. Experimental Evidence of 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlordibenzo-p-Dioxin (TCDD) Transgenerational Effects on Reproductive Health. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22169091. [PMID: 34445797 PMCID: PMC8396488 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22169091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have demonstrated that endocrine disruptors (EDs) can promote the transgenerational inheritance of disease susceptibility. Among the many existing EDs, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlordibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) affects reproductive health, including in humans, following direct occupational exposure or environmental disasters, for instance the Agent Orange sprayed during the Vietnam War. Conversely, few studies have focused on TCDD multigenerational and transgenerational effects on human reproductive health, despite the high amount of evidence in animal models of such effects on male and female reproductive health that mimic human reproductive system disorders. Importantly, these studies show that paternal ancestral TCDD exposure substantially contributes to pregnancy outcome and fetal health, although pregnancy outcome is considered tightly related to the woman’s health. In this work, we conducted a systematic review of the literature and a knowledge synthesis in order (i) to describe the findings obtained in rodent models concerning TCDD transgenerational effects on reproductive health and (ii) to discuss the epigenetic molecular alterations that might be involved in this process. As ancestral toxicant exposure cannot be changed in humans, identifying the crucial reproductive functions that are negatively affected by such exposure may help clinicians to preserve male and female fertility and to avoid adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Gaspari
- Unité d’Endocrinologie-Gynécologie Pédiatrique, Service de Pédiatrie, CHU Montpellier, University of Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France; (L.G.); (F.P.); (C.S.)
- Centre de Référence Maladies Rares du Développement Génital, Constitutif Sud, CHU Montpellier, University of Montpellier, Hôpital Lapeyronie, 34090 Montpellier, France;
- INSERM 1203, Développement Embryonnaire Fertilité Environnement, University of Montpellier, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Françoise Paris
- Unité d’Endocrinologie-Gynécologie Pédiatrique, Service de Pédiatrie, CHU Montpellier, University of Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France; (L.G.); (F.P.); (C.S.)
- Centre de Référence Maladies Rares du Développement Génital, Constitutif Sud, CHU Montpellier, University of Montpellier, Hôpital Lapeyronie, 34090 Montpellier, France;
- INSERM 1203, Développement Embryonnaire Fertilité Environnement, University of Montpellier, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Nicolas Kalfa
- Centre de Référence Maladies Rares du Développement Génital, Constitutif Sud, CHU Montpellier, University of Montpellier, Hôpital Lapeyronie, 34090 Montpellier, France;
- Département de Chirurgie Viscérale et Urologique Pédiatrique, CHU Montpellier, University of Montpellier, Hôpital Lapeyronie, 34090 Montpellier, France
- Institut Debrest de Santé Publique IDESP, UMR INSERM, University of Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Marie-Odile Soyer-Gobillard
- CNRS, Sorbonne University, 75006 Paris, France;
- Association Hhorages-France, 95270 Asnières-sur-Oise, France
| | - Charles Sultan
- Unité d’Endocrinologie-Gynécologie Pédiatrique, Service de Pédiatrie, CHU Montpellier, University of Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France; (L.G.); (F.P.); (C.S.)
| | - Samir Hamamah
- INSERM 1203, Développement Embryonnaire Fertilité Environnement, University of Montpellier, 34295 Montpellier, France
- Département de Biologie de la Reproduction, Biologie de la Reproduction/DPI et CECOS, CHU Montpellier, University of Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France
- Correspondence: ; Fax: +33-4-67-33-62-90
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Developmental and lifelong dioxin exposure induces measurable changes in cardiac structure and function in adulthood. Sci Rep 2021; 11:10378. [PMID: 34001975 PMCID: PMC8129097 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-89825-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common congenital abnormality. A precise etiology for CHD remains elusive, but likely results from interactions between genetic and environmental factors during development, when the heart adapts to physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Further, it has become clearer that early exposure to toxins that do not result in overt CHD may be associated with adverse cardiac outcomes that are not manifested until later life. Previously, interference with endogenous developmental functions of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), either by gene ablation or by in utero exposure to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), a potent AHR ligand, was shown to cause structural, molecular and functional cardiac abnormalities and altered heart physiology in mouse embryos. Here, we show that continuous exposure to TCDD from fertilization throughout adulthood caused male mice to underperform at exercise tolerance tests compared to their control and female counterparts, confirming previous observations of a sexually dimorphic phenotype. Renin-angiotensin stimulation by angiotensin II (Ang II) caused measurable increases in blood pressure and left ventricle mass, along with decreased end diastolic volume and preserved ejection fraction. Interestingly, TCDD exposure caused measurable reductions in the myocardial hypertrophic effects of Ang II, suggesting that endogenous AHR signaling present in adulthood may play a role in the pathogenesis of hypertrophy. Overall, the findings reported in this pilot study highlight the complex systems underlying TCDD exposure in the development of cardiac dysfunction in later life.
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Eskenazi B, Ames J, Rauch S, Signorini S, Brambilla P, Mocarelli P, Siracusa C, Holland N, Warner M. Dioxin exposure associated with fecundability and infertility in mothers and daughters of Seveso, Italy. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:794-807. [PMID: 33367671 PMCID: PMC7891815 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is there an association between 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) exposure and fecundability and infertility among Seveso women and their daughters? SUMMARY ANSWER TCDD exposure is associated with a decrease in fecundability and increased risk of infertility in women, as well as their daughters. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In animal studies, maternal exposure to TCDD is associated with decreased fertility in offspring. Effects of TCDD are mediated by activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) pathway. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION The Seveso Women's Health Study (SWHS) has followed 981 women exposed to TCDD in a 1976 accident since 1996. In 2014, we initiated the Seveso Second Generation Study to follow-up their children. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We obtained information on pregnancy history including time of trying to conceive from SWHS women and their daughters who were 18 years or older. We considered TCDD exposure as initial 1976 serum TCDD concentration and estimated TCDD at pregnancy. We examined relationships of TCDD exposure with time to pregnancy (TTP, the monthly probability of conception within the first 12 months of trying) and infertility (≥12 months of trying to conceive). We also assessed contributions of polymorphisms in the AHR pathway via genetic risk score. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Among SWHS women (n = 446), median TTP was 3 months and 18% reported taking ≥12 months to conceive. Initial 1976 TCDD (log10) was associated with longer TTP (adjusted fecundability odds ratio = 0.82; 95% CI 0.68-0.98) and increased risk of infertility (adjusted relative risk = 1.35; 95% CI 1.01-1.79). TCDD at pregnancy yielded similar associations. Among SWHS daughters (n = 66), median TTP was 2 months and 11% reported taking ≥12 months to conceive. Daughters showed similar, but non-significant, associations with maternal TCDD exposure. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION A limitation of this study is time to pregnancy was reported retrospectively, although previous studies have found women are able to recall time to conception with a high degree of accuracy many years after the fact. The number of SWHS daughters who had a live birth was small and we were unable to examine fecundability of SWHS sons. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Consistent with previous findings in animal studies, our study found that TCDD exposure may be associated with decreased fertility in Seveso mothers and potentially in their daughters exposed in utero. There may be susceptible genetic subgroups. The literature has largely considered the genetics of the AHR pathway in the context of male fertility but not female fertility, despite strong biological plausibility. These findings should be replicated in larger populations and of different ancestry. Future studies in Seveso should examine the sons and the grandchildren of exposed mothers given the animal literature suggesting potential heritable epigenetic effects. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by grant numbers F06 TW02075-01 from the National Institutes of Health, R01 ES07171 and 2P30-ESO01896-17 from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, R82471 from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and #2896 from Regione Lombardia and Fondazione Lombardia Ambiente, Milan, Italy. J.A. was supported by F31ES026488 from the National Institutes of Health. The authors declare they have no actual or potential competing financial interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Eskenazi
- Center for Environmental Research and Children’s Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer Ames
- Center for Environmental Research and Children’s Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Stephen Rauch
- Center for Environmental Research and Children’s Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Stefano Signorini
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Milano-Bicocca, School of Medicine, Hospital of Desio, Desio-Milano, Italy
| | - Paolo Brambilla
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Milano-Bicocca, School of Medicine, Hospital of Desio, Desio-Milano, Italy
| | - Paolo Mocarelli
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Milano-Bicocca, School of Medicine, Hospital of Desio, Desio-Milano, Italy
| | - Claudia Siracusa
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Milano-Bicocca, School of Medicine, Hospital of Desio, Desio-Milano, Italy
| | - Nina Holland
- Center for Environmental Research and Children’s Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Marcella Warner
- Center for Environmental Research and Children’s Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
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Laws MJ, Neff AM, Brehm E, Warner GR, Flaws JA. Endocrine disrupting chemicals and reproductive disorders in women, men, and animal models. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2021; 92:151-190. [PMID: 34452686 PMCID: PMC9743013 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2021.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This chapter covers the known effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) on reproductive disorders. The EDCs represented are highly studied, including plasticizers (bisphenols and phthalates), chemicals in personal care products (parabens), persistent environmental contaminants (polychlorinated biphenyls), and chemicals in pesticides or herbicides. Both female and male reproductive disorders are reviewed in the chapter. Female disorders include infertility/subfertility, irregular reproductive cycles, early menopause, premature ovarian insufficiency, polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids. Male disorders include infertility/subfertility, cryptorchidism, and hypospadias. Findings from both human and animal studies are represented.
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Zhang T, Zhou X, Ren X, Zhang X, Wu J, Wang S, Wang Z. Animal Toxicology Studies on the Male Reproductive Effects of 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-Dioxin: Data Analysis and Health Effects Evaluation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:696106. [PMID: 34803904 PMCID: PMC8595279 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.696106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is a well-known environmental poison that exist in the environment for many years. However, its effect on the male reproductive system has not been clearly stated. We conducted a meta-analysis of the effect of TCDD on the male reproductive system of rodents about TCDD. Results showed that that TCDD exposure reduced the testis weight (weighted mean difference [WMD]: -0.035, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.046 to -0.025), sperm count (WMD: -35, 95% CI: -42.980 to -27.019), and blood testosterone concentration (WMD: -0.171, 95% CI: -0.269 to -0.073). According to our research results, TCDD can cause damage to the male reproductive system of rodents through direct or indirect exposure. In order to further explore the potential hazards of TCDD to humans, more human-related research needs to be carried out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongtong Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaohan Ren
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiajin Wu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shangqian Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Zengjun Wang, ; Shangqian Wang,
| | - Zengjun Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Urology, The First People’s Hospital of Xuzhou City, Xuzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Zengjun Wang, ; Shangqian Wang,
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19
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Plunk EC, Richards SM. Endocrine-Disrupting Air Pollutants and Their Effects on the Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239191. [PMID: 33276521 PMCID: PMC7731392 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Anthropogenic endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can contaminate air, soil, and water. Human exposures to EDCs occur through inhalation, absorption, and ingestion. EDCs act by disrupting various pathways in the endocrine system. When the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis is disrupted by EDCs, there can be effects on fertility in both men and women. Not only can fertility be indirectly affected by EDC disruptions of the HPG axis, but EDCs can also directly affect the menstrual cycle and sperm morphology. In this review, we will discuss the current findings on EDCs that can be inhaled. This review examines effects of exposure to prominent EDCs: brominated and organophosphate flame retardants, diesel exhaust, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, cadmium and lead, TCDD, and polychlorinated biphenyls on fertility through alterations that disrupt the HPG axis and fertility through inhalation. Although the studies included herein include multiple exposure routes, all the studies indicate receptor interactions that can occur from inhalation and the associated effects of all compounds on the HPG axis and subsequent fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth C. Plunk
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical School, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Sean M. Richards
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Tennessee-Chattanooga, Chattanooga, TN 37403, USA;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Chattanooga, TN 37403, USA
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Abstract
Adenomyosis is a nonmalignant uterine disorder in which endometrial tissue exists within and grows into the myometrium. Animal models have generated limited insight into the still-unclear pathogenesis of adenomyosis, provided a platform for preclinical screening of many drugs and compounds with potential as therapeutics, and elucidated mechanisms underlying the pain and fertility issues that occur in many women with the disease. Spontaneous adenomyosis has been studied in nonhuman primates, primarily in the form of case reports. Adenomyosis is routinely experimentally induced in mice through methods such as neonatal tamoxifen exposure, pituitary engraftment, and human tissue xenotransplantation. Several studies have also reported hormonal or environmental toxicant exposures that give rise to murine adenomyosis, and genetically engineered models have been created that recapitulate the human-like condition, most notably involving alteration of β-catenin expression. This review describes the animal models for adenomyosis and their contributions to our understanding of the factors underpinning the development of symptoms. Animal models represent a unique opportunity for understanding the molecular basis of adenomyosis and developing efficacious treatment options for affected women. Herein, we assess their different potentials and limitations with regard to identification of new therapeutic interventions and reflect on future directions for research and drug validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan M Marquardt
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan.,Cell and Molecular Biology Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Jae-Wook Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - Asgerally T Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
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21
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Kuzmina NS, Luong TM, Rubanovich AV. Changes in DNA Methylation Induced by Dioxins and Dioxin-Like Compounds as Potential Predictor of Disease Risk. RUSS J GENET+ 2020. [DOI: 10.1134/s1022795420100063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Rattan S, Flaws JA. The epigenetic impacts of endocrine disruptors on female reproduction across generations†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:635-644. [PMID: 31077281 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Humans and animals are repeatedly exposed to endocrine disruptors, many of which are ubiquitous in the environment. Endocrine disruptors interfere with hormone action; thus, causing non-monotonic dose responses that are atypical of standard toxicant exposures. The female reproductive system is particularly susceptible to the effects of endocrine disruptors. Likewise, exposures to endocrine disruptors during developmental periods are particularly concerning because programming during development can be adversely impacted by hormone level changes. Subsequently, developing reproductive tissues can be predisposed to diseases in adulthood and these diseases can be passed down to future generations. The mechanisms of action by which endocrine disruptors cause disease transmission to future generations are thought to include epigenetic modifications. This review highlights the effects of endocrine disruptors on the female reproductive system, with an emphasis on the multi- and transgenerational epigenetic effects of these exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saniya Rattan
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
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23
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King SE, Skinner MK. Epigenetic Transgenerational Inheritance of Obesity Susceptibility. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2020; 31:478-494. [PMID: 32521235 PMCID: PMC8260009 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2020.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of obesity and associated diseases has reached pandemic levels. Obesity is often associated with overnutrition and a sedentary lifestyle, but clearly other factors also increase the susceptibility of metabolic disease states. Ancestral and direct exposures to environmental toxicants and altered nutrition have been shown to increase susceptibility for obesity and metabolic dysregulation. Environmental insults can reprogram the epigenome of the germline (sperm and eggs), which transmits the susceptibility for disease to future generations through epigenetic transgenerational inheritance. In this review, we discuss current evidence and molecular mechanisms for epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of obesity susceptibility. Understanding ancestral environmental insults and epigenetic transgenerational impacts on future generations will be critical to fully understand the etiology of obesity and to develop preventative therapy options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie E King
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-4236, USA
| | - Michael K Skinner
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-4236, USA.
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24
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Mokshagundam S, Ding T, Rumph JT, Dallas M, Stephens VR, Osteen KG, Bruner-Tran KL. Developmental 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin exposure of either parent enhances the risk of necrotizing enterocolitis in neonatal mice. Birth Defects Res 2020; 112:1209-1223. [PMID: 32519502 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1742] [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: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a rare, but potentially fatal intestinal inflammatory condition most often arising in premature infants. Infants provided formula are also at greater risk of developing this disease. Although the majority of formula-fed, preterm infants do not develop NEC, up to 30% of infants with the disease do not survive. Thus, identifying additional, currently unrecognized factors, which may predispose a specific infant to NEC development would be a significant clinical advancement. In this regard, we have previously reported that offspring of female or male mice with a history of developmental exposure to the environmental toxicant 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) exhibit altered sensitivity to inflammatory challenges and are frequently born premature. Herein, we examined the possibility that, compared to unexposed mice (F1NONE ), developmental TCDD exposure of either parent (maternal, F1MTCDD , or paternal, F1PTCDD ) would enhance the risk of NEC in offspring (F2TCDD mice) in association with supplemental formula feeding. METHODS Beginning on postnatal day 7, all neonates were randomized to maternal milk only or maternal milk with up to 20 supplemental formula feedings. All pups remained with the Dams and were additionally allowed to nurse ad libitum. RESULTS Formula-fed F2NONE pups rarely developed NEC while this disease was common in formula-fed F2MTCDD and F2PTCDD mice. Unexpectedly, 50% of F2MTCDD pups that were not provided supplemental formula also developed NEC. CONCLUSIONS Our studies provide evidence that a history of parental TCDD exposure enhances the risk of NEC in offspring and suggest exposure to environmental immunotoxicants such as TCDD may also contribute to this inflammatory disease in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilpa Mokshagundam
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Tianbing Ding
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jelonia T Rumph
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Physiology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | | | - Victoria R Stephens
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.,Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Kevin G Osteen
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.,Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.,VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Kaylon L Bruner-Tran
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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Li K, Liszka M, Zhou C, Brehm E, Flaws JA, Nowak RA. Prenatal exposure to a phthalate mixture leads to multigenerational and transgenerational effects on uterine morphology and function in mice. Reprod Toxicol 2020; 93:178-190. [PMID: 32126281 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2020.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Phthalates are commonly used plasticizers and additives that are found in plastic containers, children's toys and medical equipment. Phthalates are classified as endocrine-disrupting chemicals and exposure to phthalates has been associated with several human health risks including reproductive defects. Most studies focus on a single phthalate; however, humans are exposed to a mixture of phthalates daily. We hypothesized that prenatal exposure to an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture would lead to changes in uterine morphology and function in mice in a multi-generational manner. To test this hypothesis, pregnant CD-1 dams were orally dosed with vehicle or a phthalate mixture (20 μg/kg/day, 200 μg/kg/day, 200 mg/kg/day, and 500 mg/kg/day) from gestational day 10.5 to parturition. The mixture contained 35 % diethyl phthalate, 21 % di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, 15 % dibutyl phthalate, 15 % diisononyl phthalate, 8% diisobutyl phthalate, and 5% benzylbutyl phthalate. The F1 pups were maintained and mated to produce two more generations (F2 and F3). At the age of 13 months, all females were euthanized and tissue samples were collected in diestrus. Our results showed that exposure to a phthalate mixture caused a decrease in progesterone levels in the treated groups in the F2 generation. The 200 mg/kg/day treatment group showed a decreased and increased luminal epithelial cell proliferation in the F1 and F2 generations respectively. In addition, these mice in the F2 generation had reduced Hand2 expression in the sub-epithelial stroma compared to the controls. A higher incidence of multilayered luminal epithelium and large dilated endometrial glands were observed in the phthalate mixture exposed groups in all generations. The mixture also caused a higher incidence of smooth muscle actin expression and collagen deposition in the endometrium compared to controls. Collectively, our results demonstrate that prenatal exposure to an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture can have adverse effects on female reproductive functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kailiang Li
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Monika Liszka
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Changqing Zhou
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Emily Brehm
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Romana A Nowak
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, United States.
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26
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Üstündağ ÜV, Emekli-Alturfan E. Wnt pathway: A mechanism worth considering in endocrine disrupting chemical action. Toxicol Ind Health 2020; 36:41-53. [DOI: 10.1177/0748233719898989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are defined as exogenous substances that can alter the development and functioning of the endocrine system. The Wnt signaling pathway is an evolutionarily conserved pathway consisting of proteins that transmit cell-to-cell receptors through cell surface receptors, regulating important aspects of cell migration, polarity, neural formation, and organogenesis, which determines the fate of the cell during embryonic development. Although the effects of EDCs have been studied in terms of many molecular mechanisms; because of its critical role in embryogenesis, the Wnt pathway is of special interest in EDC exposure. This review provides information about the effects of EDC exposure on the Wnt/β-catenin pathway focusing on studies on bisphenol A, di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, diethylstilbestrol, cadmium, and 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ünsal Veli Üstündağ
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ebru Emekli-Alturfan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
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27
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Rumph JT, Stephens VR, Archibong AE, Osteen KG, Bruner-Tran KL. Environmental Endocrine Disruptors and Endometriosis. ADVANCES IN ANATOMY, EMBRYOLOGY, AND CELL BIOLOGY 2020; 232:57-78. [PMID: 33278007 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-51856-1_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
As a consequence of industrialization, thousands of man-made chemicals have been developed with few undergoing rigorous safety assessment prior to commercial use. Ubiquitous exposure to these compounds, many of which act as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), has been suggested to be one factor in the increasing incidence of numerous diseases, including endometriosis. Endometriosis, the presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterus, is a common disorder of reproductive-age women. Although a number of population-based studies have suggested that exposure to environmental EDCs may affect a woman's risk of developing this disease, results of epidemiology assessments are often equivocal. The development of endometriosis is, however, a process occurring over time; thus, a single assessment of toxicant body burden cannot definitively be linked to causation of disease. For this reason, numerous investigators have utilized a variety of rodent models to examine the impact of specific EDCs on the development of experimental endometriosis. These studies identified multiple chemicals capable of influencing physiologic processes necessary for the establishment and/or survival of ectopic tissues in rodents, suggesting that these compounds may also be of concern for women. Importantly, these models serve as useful tools to explore strategies that may prevent adverse outcomes following EDC exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelonia T Rumph
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Victoria R Stephens
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA.,Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Anthony E Archibong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Kevin G Osteen
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA.,Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA.,VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Kaylon L Bruner-Tran
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA.
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28
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Nelson W, Wang YX, Sakwari G, Ding YB. Review of the Effects of Perinatal Exposure to Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals in Animals and Humans. REVIEWS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2020; 251:131-184. [PMID: 31129734 DOI: 10.1007/398_2019_30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Maternal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is associated with long-term hormone-dependent effects that are sometimes not revealed until maturity, middle age, or adulthood. The aim of this study was to conduct descriptive reviews on animal experimental and human epidemiological evidence of the adverse health effects of in utero and lactational exposure to selected EDCs on the first generation and subsequent generation of the exposed offspring. PubMed, Web of Science, and Toxline databases were searched for relevant human and experimental animal studies on 29 October 29 2018. Search results were screened for relevance, and studies that met the inclusion criteria were evaluated and qualitative data extracted for analysis. The search yielded 73 relevant human and 113 animal studies. Results from studies show that in utero and lactational exposure to EDCs is associated with impairment of reproductive, immunologic, metabolic, neurobehavioral, and growth physiology of the exposed offspring up to the fourth generation without additional exposure. Little convergence is seen between animal experiments and human studies in terms of the reported adverse health effects which might be associated with methodologic challenges across the studies. Based on the available animal and human evidence, in utero and lactational exposure to EDCs is detrimental to the offspring. However, more human studies are necessary to clarify the toxicological and pathophysiological mechanisms underlying these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Nelson
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive and Development, Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying-Xiong Wang
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive and Development, Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Gloria Sakwari
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health and Social Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es salaam, Tanzania
| | - Yu-Bin Ding
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive and Development, Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.
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29
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What Have We Learned from Animal Models of Endometriosis and How Can We Use the Knowledge Gained to Improve Treatment of Patients? ADVANCES IN ANATOMY, EMBRYOLOGY, AND CELL BIOLOGY 2020; 232:99-111. [PMID: 33278009 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-51856-1_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a complex disorder with a high socio-economic impact. Development of effective novel drug therapies which can be given to women to relieve chronic pain symptoms without side effects such as hormone suppression is urgently required, but progress has been slow. Several different rodent models of 'endometriosis' have been developed, the majority of which mimic aspects of peritoneal disease (e.g. 'lesions' in peritoneal cavity either surgically or spontaneously attached to wall, mesentery, fat). Results obtained using these models have informed our understanding of aetiology including evidence for differential expression of regulatory factors in lesions and impacts on pain perception and fertility. Refinement of these models to ensure reproducibility, extension of models to replicate ovarian and deep disease, complementary in vitro approaches and robust experimental design are all needed to ensure preclinical drug testing results in positive findings in clinical trials and translation for patient benefit.
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30
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Mancini V, Pensabene V. Organs-On-Chip Models of the Female Reproductive System. Bioengineering (Basel) 2019; 6:E103. [PMID: 31703369 PMCID: PMC6956296 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering6040103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Microfluidic-based technology attracts great interest in cell biology and medicine, in virtue of the ability to better mimic the in vivo cell microenvironment compared to conventional macroscale cell culture platforms. Recent Organs-on-chip (OoC) models allow to reproduce in vitro tissue and organ-level functions of living organs and systems. These models have been applied for the study of specific functions of the female reproductive tract, which is composed of several organs interconnected through intricate endocrine pathways and communication mechanisms. To date, a disease and toxicology study of this system has been difficult to perform. Thus, there is a compelling need to develop innovative platforms for the generation of disease model and for performing drug toxicity/screening in vitro studies. This review is focused on the analysis of recently published OoC models that recreate pathological and physiological characteristics of the female reproductive organs and tissues. These models aim to be used to assess changes in metabolic activity of the specific cell types and the effect of exposure to hormonal treatment or chemical substances on some aspects of reproduction and fertility. We examined these models in terms of device specifications, operating procedures, accuracy for studying the biochemical and functional activity of living tissues and the paracrine signalling that occurs within the different tissues. These models represent a powerful tool for understanding important diseases and syndromes affecting women all around the world. Immediate adoption of these models will allow to clarify diseases, causes and adverse events occurring during pregnancy such as pre-eclampsia, infertility or preterm birth, endometriosis and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Mancini
- School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK;
| | - Virginia Pensabene
- School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK;
- School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
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31
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Post CM, Boule LA, Burke CG, O'Dell CT, Winans B, Lawrence BP. The Ancestral Environment Shapes Antiviral CD8 + T cell Responses across Generations. iScience 2019; 20:168-183. [PMID: 31569050 PMCID: PMC6817732 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2019.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have linked health fates of children to environmental exposures of their great grandparents. However, few studies have considered whether ancestral exposures influence immune function across generations. Here, we report transgenerational inheritance of altered T cell responses resulting from maternal (F0) exposure to the aryl hydrocarbon receptor ligand 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). Since F0 exposure to TCDD has been linked to transgenerational transmission of reproductive problems, we asked whether maternal TCDD exposure also caused transgenerational changes in immune function. F0 exposure caused transgenerational effects on the CD8+ T cell response to influenza virus infection in females but not in males. Outcrosses showed changes were passed through both parental lineages. These data demonstrate that F0 exposure to an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) agonist causes durable changes to immune responses that can affect subsequent generations. This has broad implications for understanding how the environment of prior generations shapes susceptibility to pathogens and antiviral immunity in later generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina M Post
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Lisbeth A Boule
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642, USA; Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Catherine G Burke
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Colleen T O'Dell
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Bethany Winans
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - B Paige Lawrence
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642, USA; Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642, USA.
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32
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McCarthy R, Martin-Fairey C, Sojka DK, Herzog ED, Jungheim ES, Stout MJ, Fay JC, Mahendroo M, Reese J, Herington JL, Plosa EJ, Shelton EL, England SK. Mouse models of preterm birth: suggested assessment and reporting guidelines. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:922-937. [PMID: 29733339 PMCID: PMC6297318 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Preterm birth affects approximately 1 out of every 10 births in the United States, leading to high rates of mortality and long-term negative health consequences. To investigate the mechanisms leading to preterm birth so as to develop prevention strategies, researchers have developed numerous mouse models of preterm birth. However, the lack of standard definitions for preterm birth in mice limits our field's ability to compare models and make inferences about preterm birth in humans. In this review, we discuss numerous mouse preterm birth models, propose guidelines for experiments and reporting, and suggest markers that can be used to assess whether pups are premature or mature. We argue that adoption of these recommendations will enhance the utility of mice as models for preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald McCarthy
- Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Carmel Martin-Fairey
- Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Dorothy K Sojka
- Rheumatology Division, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Erik D Herzog
- Department of Biology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Emily S Jungheim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Molly J Stout
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Justin C Fay
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Mala Mahendroo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Jeff Reese
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jennifer L Herington
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Erin J Plosa
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Elaine L Shelton
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Sarah K England
- Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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33
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Krishnan K, Hasbum A, Morales D, Thompson LM, Crews D, Gore AC. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals alter the neuromolecular phenotype in F2 generation adult male rats. Physiol Behav 2019; 211:112674. [PMID: 31491443 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2019.112674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Revised: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC) exposures to the fetus have long-lasting effects on health and disease in adulthood. Such EDC exposure to the F1 fetuses also reaches the germ cells that become the F2 generation. Previously, we demonstrated that adult social and communicative behaviors such as ultrasonic vocalizations and mating behaviors were altered by EDCs in F2 rats, especially males. In the current study, we used the brains of these F2 males to ascertain the underlying molecular changes in the hypothalamus related to these behavioral outcomes. Their progenitors were Sprague-Dawley rat dams, treated on pregnancy days 8 to 18 with one of three treatments: a polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) mixture, Aroclor 1221, selected because it is weakly estrogenic; the anti-androgenic fungicide vinclozolin (VIN); or the vehicle, 6% dimethylsulfoxide in sesame oil (VEH). In adulthood, F1 male and female offspring were bred with untreated partners to generate paternal or maternal lineages of the F2 offspring, the subjects of molecular work. Quantitative real-time PCR was conducted in the medial preoptic area (POA) and the ventromedial nucleus (VMN) of the hypothalamus, selected for their roles in social and sexual behaviors. Of the genes assessed, steroid hormone receptors (estrogen receptor α, androgen receptor, progesterone receptor) but not dopamine receptors 1 and 2 or DNA methyltransferase 3a expression were altered, particularly in the VIN males. Several significant correlations between behavior and gene expression were also detected. These results suggest that preconceptional exposure of male rats to EDCs at the germ cell stage alters the neuromolecular phenotype in adulthood in a lineage-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krittika Krishnan
- Department of Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America
| | - Asbiel Hasbum
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America
| | - Daniel Morales
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America
| | - Lindsay M Thompson
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America
| | - David Crews
- Department of Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America; Department of Integrative Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America
| | - Andrea C Gore
- Department of Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America; Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America.
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Kalichak F, de Alcantara Barcellos HH, Idalencio R, Koakoski G, Soares SM, Pompermaier A, Rossini M, Barcellos LJG. Persistent and transgenerational effects of risperidone in zebrafish. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:26293-26303. [PMID: 31286368 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-05890-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Since behavior is the connection between the internal physiological processes of an animal and its interaction with the environment, a complete behavioral repertoire is crucial for fish survival and fitness, at both the individual and population levels. Thus, unintended exposure of non-target organisms to antipsychotic residues in the environment can impact their normal behavior, and some of these behavioral changes can be seen during the entire life of the animal and passed to subsequent generations. Although there are some reports related to transgenerational toxicology, little is known of the long-term consequences of exposure to pharmaceutical compounds such as risperidone. Here, we show that zebrafish exposed to risperidone (RISP) during embryonic and larval stages presented impaired anti-predatory behavior during adulthood, characterizing a persistent effect. We also show that some of these behavioral changes are present in the following generation, characterizing a transgenerational effect. This suggests that even short exposures to environmentally relevant concentrations, at essential stages of development, can persist throughout the whole life of the zebrafish, including its offspring. From an environmental perspective, our results suggested possible risks and long-term consequences associated with drug residues in water, which can affect aquatic life and endanger species that depend on appropriate behavioral responses for survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana Kalichak
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, 1000, Cidade Universitária, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
- Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdades Integradas do Vale do Iguaçu (Uniguaçu), Rua Padre Saporiti, 717, Rio D'Areia, União da Vitória, PR, 84600-904, Brazil
| | - Heloisa Helena de Alcantara Barcellos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, 1000, Cidade Universitária, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
- Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), BR 285, São José, Passo Fundo, RS, 99052-900, Brazil
| | - Renan Idalencio
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, 1000, Cidade Universitária, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
- Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), BR 285, São José, Passo Fundo, RS, 99052-900, Brazil
| | - Gessi Koakoski
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioexperimentação, Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), BR 285, São José, Passo Fundo, RS, 99052-900, Brazil
| | - Suelen Mendonça Soares
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, 1000, Cidade Universitária, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Aline Pompermaier
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), BR 285, São José, Passo Fundo, RS, 99052-900, Brazil
| | - Mainara Rossini
- Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), BR 285, São José, Passo Fundo, RS, 99052-900, Brazil
| | - Leonardo José Gil Barcellos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, 1000, Cidade Universitária, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil.
- Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), BR 285, São José, Passo Fundo, RS, 99052-900, Brazil.
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioexperimentação, Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), BR 285, São José, Passo Fundo, RS, 99052-900, Brazil.
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), BR 285, São José, Passo Fundo, RS, 99052-900, Brazil.
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35
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Luderer U, Eskenazi B, Hauser R, Korach KS, McHale CM, Moran F, Rieswijk L, Solomon G, Udagawa O, Zhang L, Zlatnik M, Zeise L, Smith MT. Proposed Key Characteristics of Female Reproductive Toxicants as an Approach for Organizing and Evaluating Mechanistic Data in Hazard Assessment. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2019; 127:75001. [PMID: 31322437 PMCID: PMC6791466 DOI: 10.1289/ehp4971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Revised: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Identification of female reproductive toxicants is currently based largely on integrated epidemiological and in vivo toxicology data and, to a lesser degree, on mechanistic data. A uniform approach to systematically search, organize, integrate, and evaluate mechanistic evidence of female reproductive toxicity from various data types is lacking. OBJECTIVE We sought to apply a key characteristics approach similar to that pioneered for carcinogen hazard identification to female reproductive toxicant hazard identification. METHODS A working group of international experts was convened to discuss mechanisms associated with chemical-induced female reproductive toxicity and identified 10 key characteristics of chemicals that cause female reproductive toxicity: 1) alters hormone receptor signaling; alters reproductive hormone production, secretion, or metabolism; 2) chemical or metabolite is genotoxic; 3) induces epigenetic alterations; 4) causes mitochondrial dysfunction; 5) induces oxidative stress; 6) alters immune function; 7) alters cell signal transduction; 8) alters direct cell–cell interactions; 9) alters survival, proliferation, cell death, or metabolic pathways; and 10) alters microtubules and associated structures. As proof of principle, cyclophosphamide and diethylstilbestrol (DES), for which both human and animal studies have demonstrated female reproductive toxicity, display at least 5 and 3 key characteristics, respectively. 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), for which the epidemiological evidence is mixed, exhibits 5 key characteristics. DISCUSSION Future efforts should focus on evaluating the proposed key characteristics against additional known and suspected female reproductive toxicants. Chemicals that exhibit one or more of the key characteristics could be prioritized for additional evaluation and testing. A key characteristics approach has the potential to integrate with pathway-based toxicity testing to improve prediction of female reproductive toxicity in chemicals and potentially prevent some toxicants from entering common use. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP4971.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Luderer
- Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Brenda Eskenazi
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Russ Hauser
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kenneth S. Korach
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Cliona M. McHale
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Francisco Moran
- Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, California Environmental Protection Agency, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Linda Rieswijk
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
- Institute of Data Science, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Gina Solomon
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Osamu Udagawa
- Center for Health and Environmental Risk Research, National Institute of Environmental Studies, Tsukuba-City, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Luoping Zhang
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Marya Zlatnik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Lauren Zeise
- Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, California Environmental Protection Agency, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Martyn T. Smith
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
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Sadler-Riggleman I, Klukovich R, Nilsson E, Beck D, Xie Y, Yan W, Skinner MK. Epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of testis pathology and Sertoli cell epimutations: generational origins of male infertility. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2019; 5:dvz013. [PMID: 31528361 PMCID: PMC6736068 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvz013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Male reproductive health has been in decline for decades with dropping sperm counts and increasing infertility, which has created a significant societal and economic burden. Between the 1970s and now, a general decline of over 50% in sperm concentration has been observed in the population. Environmental toxicant-induced epigenetic transgenerational inheritance has been shown to affect testis pathology and sperm count. Sertoli cells have an essential role in spermatogenesis by providing physical and nutritional support for developing germ cells. The current study was designed to further investigate the transgenerational epigenetic changes in the rat Sertoli cell epigenome and transcriptome that are associated with the onset of testis disease. Gestating female F0 generation rats were transiently exposed during the period of fetal gonadal sex determination to the environmental toxicants, such as dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) or vinclozolin. The F1 generation offspring were bred (i.e. intercross within the lineage) to produce the F2 generation grand-offspring that were then bred to produce the transgenerational F3 generation (i.e. great-grand-offspring) with no sibling or cousin breeding used. The focus of the current study was to investigate the transgenerational testis disease etiology, so F3 generation rats were utilized. The DNA and RNA were obtained from purified Sertoli cells isolated from postnatal 20-day-old male testis of F3 generation rats. Transgenerational alterations in DNA methylation, noncoding RNA, and gene expression were observed in the Sertoli cells from vinclozolin and DDT lineages when compared to the control (vehicle exposed) lineage. Genes associated with abnormal Sertoli cell function and testis pathology were identified, and the transgenerational impacts of vinclozolin and DDT were determined. Alterations in critical gene pathways, such as the pyruvate metabolism pathway, were identified. Observations suggest that ancestral exposures to environmental toxicants promote the epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of Sertoli cell epigenetic and transcriptome alterations that associate with testis abnormalities. These epigenetic alterations appear to be critical factors in the developmental and generational origins of testis pathologies and male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Sadler-Riggleman
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Rachel Klukovich
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Eric Nilsson
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Daniel Beck
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Yeming Xie
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Michael K Skinner
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
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Bruner-Tran KL, Mokshagundam S, Barlow A, Ding T, Osteen KG. Paternal Environmental Toxicant Exposure and Risk of Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes. CURRENT OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY REPORTS 2019; 8:103-113. [PMID: 32953240 PMCID: PMC7500507 DOI: 10.1007/s13669-019-00265-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Current clinical efforts to predict and prevent preterm birth are primarily focused on the mother and have made minimal progress in improving outcomes. However, recent data indicate that paternal factors can also influence timing of birth. Herein, we will review recent human and murine data examining the contribution of the father to pregnancy outcomes with an emphasis on environmental exposures that can negatively impact fertility and the timing of birth. RECENT FINDINGS Human epidemiology studies now clearly indicate that a variety of paternal factors (age, race, weight, smoking status) can influence sperm quality, birth timing and, in some studies, offspring health. Utilizing a mouse model, our data have 57demonstrated that developmental exposure to the environmental toxicant TCDD (2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin) is associated with a transgenerational reduction in sperm number and quality and an increased risk of preterm birth in an unexposed partner. SUMMARY Toxicant exposure history can clearly influence sperm quality in men and mice. Murine data further indicate that exposures which negatively affect sperm quality also impair placental function, potentially leading to preterm birth and other adverse outcomes. Of particular concern, these changes have been linked to epigenetic alterations within the male germ cell which can then be transmitted across multiple generations. Since it is not possible to prevent an ancestral toxicant exposure in a human population, identifying lifestyle modifications that can be implemented during the preconception period to improve sperm quality should be explored for the therapeutic potential to reduce the incidence of PTB and its sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaylon L. Bruner-Tran
- Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN
| | - Shilpa Mokshagundam
- Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN
| | - Alison Barlow
- Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN
| | - Tianbing Ding
- Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN
| | - Kevin G. Osteen
- Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN
- VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville TN
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Viluksela M, Pohjanvirta R. Multigenerational and Transgenerational Effects of Dioxins. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E2947. [PMID: 31212893 PMCID: PMC6627869 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20122947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dioxins are ubiquitous and persistent environmental contaminants whose background levels are still reason for concern. There is mounting evidence from both epidemiological and experimental studies that paternal exposure to the most potent congener of dioxins, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), can lower the male/female ratio of offspring. Moreover, in laboratory rodents and zebrafish, TCDD exposure of parent animals has been reported to result in reduced reproductive performance along with other adverse effects in subsequent generations, foremost through the paternal but also via the maternal germline. These impacts have been accompanied by epigenetic alterations in placenta and/or sperm cells, including changes in methylation patterns of imprinted genes. Here, we review recent key studies in this field with an attempt to provide an up-to-date picture of the present state of knowledge to the reader. These studies provide biological plausibility for the potential of dioxin exposure at a critical time-window to induce epigenetic alterations across multiple generations and the significance of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) in mediating these effects. Currently available data do not allow to accurately estimate the human health implications of these findings, although epidemiological evidence on lowered male/female ratio suggests that this effect may take place at realistic human exposure levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matti Viluksela
- School of Pharmacy and Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland.
- Environmental Health Unit, National Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 95, FI-70701 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Raimo Pohjanvirta
- Department of Food Hygiene and Environmental Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 66, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland.
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Li S, Chen M, Li Y, Tollefsbol TO. Prenatal epigenetics diets play protective roles against environmental pollution. Clin Epigenetics 2019; 11:82. [PMID: 31097039 PMCID: PMC6524340 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-019-0659-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
It is thought that germ cells and preimplantation embryos during development are most susceptible to endogenous and exogenous environmental factors because the epigenome in those cells is undergoing dramatic elimination and reconstruction. Exposure to environmental factors such as nutrition, climate, stress, pathogens, toxins, and even social behavior during gametogenesis and early embryogenesis has been shown to influence disease susceptibility in the offspring. Early-life epigenetic modifications, which determine the expression of genetic information stored in the genome, are viewed as one of the general mechanisms linking prenatal exposure and phenotypic changes later in life. From atmospheric pollution, endocrine-disrupting chemicals to heavy metals, research increasingly suggests that environmental pollutions have already produced significant consequences on human health. Moreover, mounting evidence now links such pollution to relevant modification in the epigenome. The epigenetics diet, referring to a class of bioactive dietary compounds such as isothiocyanates in broccoli, genistein in soybean, resveratrol in grape, epigallocatechin-3-gallate in green tea, and ascorbic acid in fruits, has been shown to modify the epigenome leading to beneficial health outcomes. This review will primarily focus on the causes and consequences of prenatal environment pollution exposure on the epigenome, and the potential protective role of the epigenetics diet, which could play a central role in neutralizing epigenomic aberrations against environmental pollutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shizhao Li
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Min Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
- Nutrition Obesity Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| | - Trygve O Tollefsbol
- Department of Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
- Nutrition Obesity Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
- Comprehensive Center for Healthy Aging, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
- Comprehensive Diabetes Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
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King SE, McBirney M, Beck D, Sadler-Riggleman I, Nilsson E, Skinner MK. Sperm epimutation biomarkers of obesity and pathologies following DDT induced epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of disease. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2019; 5:dvz008. [PMID: 31186947 PMCID: PMC6536675 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvz008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) has previously been shown to promote the epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of adult onset disease in rats. The current study investigated the potential that sperm epimutation biomarkers can be used to identify ancestral induced transgenerational obesity and associated pathologies. Gestating F0 generational female rats were transiently exposed to DDT during fetal gonadal sex determination, and the incidence of adult-onset pathologies was assessed in the subsequent F1, F2, and F3 generations. In addition, sperm differential DNA methylation regions (DMRs) that were associated with specific pathologies in the transgenerational F3 generation males were investigated. There was an increase of testis disease and early-onset puberty in the F2 generation DDT lineage males. The F3 generation males and females had significant increases in the incidence of obesity and multiple disease. The F3 generation DDT males also had significant increases in testis disease, prostate disease, and late onset puberty. The F3 generation DDT females had increases in ovarian and kidney disease. Epigenetic alterations of the germline are required for the transgenerational inheritance of pathology. Therefore, the F3 generation sperm was collected to examine DMRs for the ancestrally exposed DDT male population. Unique sets of DMRs were associated with late onset puberty, prostate disease, kidney disease, testis disease, obesity, and multiple disease pathologies. Gene associations with the DMR were also identified. The epigenetic DMR signatures identified for these pathologies provide potential biomarkers for transgenerationally inherited disease susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie E King
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA
| | - Margaux McBirney
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA
| | - Daniel Beck
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA
| | - Ingrid Sadler-Riggleman
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA
| | - Eric Nilsson
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA
| | - Michael K Skinner
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA
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Tuomisto J. Dioxins and dioxin-like compounds: toxicity in humans and animals, sources, and behaviour in the environment. WIKIJOURNAL OF MEDICINE 2019. [DOI: 10.15347/wjm/2019.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
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Eskenazi B, Warner M, Brambilla P, Signorini S, Ames J, Mocarelli P. The Seveso accident: A look at 40 years of health research and beyond. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2018; 121:71-84. [PMID: 30179766 PMCID: PMC6221983 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2018.08.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2018] [Revised: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
A 1976 chemical factory explosion near Seveso, Italy exposed residents to high levels of 2,3,7,8-tetracholorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD or dioxin). Dioxin is a known human carcinogen and potent endocrine disruptor. It is highly lipophilic and has a long half-life in humans. Much of what we know and can learn about the risks of dioxin exposure on human health arose from the tragic circumstances of Seveso. This review aims to describe the Seveso accident, summarize the results of 40 years of research on the health of the Seveso population since the accident, and discuss next-stage research on the health of Seveso residents, their children, and grandchildren.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Eskenazi
- Center for Environmental Research and Children's Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA.
| | - Marcella Warner
- Center for Environmental Research and Children's Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Paolo Brambilla
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Milano-Bicocca, School of Medicine, Hospital of Desio, Desio-Milano, Italy
| | - Stefano Signorini
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Milano-Bicocca, School of Medicine, Hospital of Desio, Desio-Milano, Italy
| | - Jennifer Ames
- Center for Environmental Research and Children's Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Paolo Mocarelli
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Milano-Bicocca, School of Medicine, Hospital of Desio, Desio-Milano, Italy
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Ames J, Warner M, Mocarelli P, Brambilla P, Signorini S, Siracusa C, Huen K, Holland N, Eskenazi B. AHR gene-dioxin interactions and birthweight in the Seveso Second Generation Health Study. Int J Epidemiol 2018; 47:1992-2004. [PMID: 30124847 PMCID: PMC6280946 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyy165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background 2, 3, 7, 8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is proposed to interfere with fetal growth via altered activity of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (protein: AHR; gene: AHR) pathway which regulates diverse biological and developmental processes including xenobiotic metabolism. Genetic variation in AHR is an important driver of susceptibility to low birthweight in children exposed to prenatal smoking, but less is known about these genetic interactions with TCDD, AHR's most potent xenobiotic ligand. Methods The Seveso Women's Health Study (SWHS), initiated in 1996, is a cohort of 981 Italian women exposed to TCDD from an industrial explosion in July 1976. We measured TCDD concentrations in maternal serum collected close to the time of the accident. In 2008 and 2014, we followed up the SWHS cohort and collected data on birth outcomes of SWHS women with post-accident pregnancies. We genotyped 19 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in AHR among the 574 SWHS mothers. Results Among 901 singleton births, neither SNPs nor TCDD exposure alone were significantly associated with birthweight. However, we found six individual SNPs in AHR which adversely modified the association between maternal TCDD and birthweight, implicating gene-environment interaction. We saw an even stronger susceptibility to TCDD due to interaction when we examined the joint contribution of these SNPs in a risk allele score. These SNPs were all located in noncoding regions of AHR, particularly in proximity to the promoter. Conclusions This is the first study to demonstrate that genetic variation across the maternal AHR gene may shape fetal susceptibilities to TCDD exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Ames
- Center for Environmental Research and Children’s Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Marcella Warner
- Center for Environmental Research and Children’s Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Paolo Mocarelli
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Milan-Bicocca, Hospital of Desio, Desio-Milano, Italy
| | - Paolo Brambilla
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Milan-Bicocca, Hospital of Desio, Desio-Milano, Italy
| | - Stefano Signorini
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Milan-Bicocca, Hospital of Desio, Desio-Milano, Italy
| | - Claudia Siracusa
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Milan-Bicocca, Hospital of Desio, Desio-Milano, Italy
| | - Karen Huen
- Center for Environmental Research and Children’s Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Nina Holland
- Center for Environmental Research and Children’s Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Brenda Eskenazi
- Center for Environmental Research and Children’s Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
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Knutsen HK, Alexander J, Barregård L, Bignami M, Brüschweiler B, Ceccatelli S, Cottrill B, Dinovi M, Edler L, Grasl-Kraupp B, Hogstrand C, Nebbia CS, Oswald IP, Petersen A, Rose M, Roudot AC, Schwerdtle T, Vleminckx C, Vollmer G, Wallace H, Fürst P, Håkansson H, Halldorsson T, Lundebye AK, Pohjanvirta R, Rylander L, Smith A, van Loveren H, Waalkens-Berendsen I, Zeilmaker M, Binaglia M, Gómez Ruiz JÁ, Horváth Z, Christoph E, Ciccolallo L, Ramos Bordajandi L, Steinkellner H, Hoogenboom LR. Risk for animal and human health related to the presence of dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs in feed and food. EFSA J 2018; 16:e05333. [PMID: 32625737 PMCID: PMC7009407 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2018.5333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The European Commission asked EFSA for a scientific opinion on the risks for animal and human health related to the presence of dioxins (PCDD/Fs) and DL-PCBs in feed and food. The data from experimental animal and epidemiological studies were reviewed and it was decided to base the human risk assessment on effects observed in humans and to use animal data as supportive evidence. The critical effect was on semen quality, following pre- and postnatal exposure. The critical study showed a NOAEL of 7.0 pg WHO2005-TEQ/g fat in blood sampled at age 9 years based on PCDD/F-TEQs. No association was observed when including DL-PCB-TEQs. Using toxicokinetic modelling and taking into account the exposure from breastfeeding and a twofold higher intake during childhood, it was estimated that daily exposure in adolescents and adults should be below 0.25 pg TEQ/kg bw/day. The CONTAM Panel established a TWI of 2 pg TEQ/kg bw/week. With occurrence and consumption data from European countries, the mean and P95 intake of total TEQ by Adolescents, Adults, Elderly and Very Elderly varied between, respectively, 2.1 to 10.5, and 5.3 to 30.4 pg TEQ/kg bw/week, implying a considerable exceedance of the TWI. Toddlers and Other Children showed a higher exposure than older age groups, but this was accounted for when deriving the TWI. Exposure to PCDD/F-TEQ only was on average 2.4- and 2.7-fold lower for mean and P95 exposure than for total TEQ. PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs are transferred to milk and eggs, and accumulate in fatty tissues and liver. Transfer rates and bioconcentration factors were identified for various species. The CONTAM Panel was not able to identify reference values in most farm and companion animals with the exception of NOAELs for mink, chicken and some fish species. The estimated exposure from feed for these species does not imply a risk.
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Buser MC, Abadin HG, Irwin JL, Pohl HR. Windows of sensitivity to toxic chemicals in the development of reproductive effects: an analysis of ATSDR's toxicological profile database. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2018; 28:553-578. [PMID: 30022686 PMCID: PMC6261274 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2018.1496235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/29/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Development of the fetus is a complex process influenced by many factors including genetics, maternal health, and environmental exposures to toxic chemicals. Adverse developmental effects on the reproductive system have the potential to harm generations beyond those directly exposed. Here, we review the available literature in Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry toxicological profiles related to reproductive-developmental effects in animals following in utero exposure to chemicals. We attempt to identify windows of sensitivity. In the discussion, we correlate the findings with human development. The endpoints noted are fertility, estrus, anogenital distance, sex ratio, spermatogenesis, and mammary gland development. We identified some windows of sensitivity; however, the results were hampered by chronic-exposure studies designed to detect effects occurring throughout developmental, including multi-generational studies. This paper demonstrates the need for more acute studies in animals aimed at understanding time periods of development that are more susceptible to chemically induced adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie C Buser
- a US Department of Health and Human Services , Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry , Atlanta , GA , USA
| | - Henry G Abadin
- a US Department of Health and Human Services , Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry , Atlanta , GA , USA
| | - John L Irwin
- a US Department of Health and Human Services , Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry , Atlanta , GA , USA
| | - Hana R Pohl
- a US Department of Health and Human Services , Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry , Atlanta , GA , USA
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Nilsson E, King SE, McBirney M, Kubsad D, Pappalardo M, Beck D, Sadler-Riggleman I, Skinner MK. Vinclozolin induced epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of pathologies and sperm epimutation biomarkers for specific diseases. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0202662. [PMID: 30157260 PMCID: PMC6114855 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0202662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to vinclozolin has been shown to induce the epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of increased susceptibility to disease, and to induce transgenerational changes to the epigenome. In the current study, gestating F0 generation rats were exposed to vinclozolin, and the subsequent F1, F2 and transgenerational F3 generations were evaluated for diseases and pathologies. F1 and F2 generation rats exhibited few abnormalities. However, F3 generation rats showed transgenerational increases in testis, prostate, and kidney disease, changes in the age of puberty onset in males, and an increased obesity rate in females. Overall there was an increase in the rate of animals with disease, and in the incidence of animals with multiple diseases. The objective of the current study was to analyze the sperm epigenome of F3 generation rats with specific abnormalities and compare them to rats without those abnormalities, in an effort to find epigenetic biomarkers of transgenerational disease. Unique signatures of differential DNA methylation regions (DMRs) in sperm were found that associated with testis disease, prostate disease and kidney disease. Confounding factors identified were the presence of multiple diseases in the analysis and the limited number of animals without disease. These results further our understanding of the mechanisms governing epigenetic transgenerational inheritance, and may lead in the future to the use of epigenetic biomarkers that will help predict an individual's susceptibility for specific diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Nilsson
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States of America
| | - Stephanie E. King
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States of America
| | - Margaux McBirney
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States of America
| | - Deepika Kubsad
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States of America
| | - Michelle Pappalardo
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States of America
| | - Daniel Beck
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States of America
| | - Ingrid Sadler-Riggleman
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States of America
| | - Michael K. Skinner
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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47
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Milesi MM, Lorenz V, Pacini G, Repetti MR, Demonte LD, Varayoud J, Luque EH. Perinatal exposure to a glyphosate-based herbicide impairs female reproductive outcomes and induces second-generation adverse effects in Wistar rats. Arch Toxicol 2018; 92:2629-2643. [PMID: 29947892 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-018-2236-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Glyphosate-based herbicides (GBHs) are the most globally used herbicides raising the risk of environmental exposition. Here, we investigated whether perinatal exposure to low doses of a GBH alters the female reproductive performance, and/or induced second-generation effects related to congenital anomalies or growth alterations. Pregnant rats (F0) received a GBH through food, in a dose of 2 mg (GBH-LD: GBH-low dose group) or 200 mg (GBH-HD: GBH-high dose group) of glyphosate/kg bw/day from gestational day (GD) 9 until weaning. Body weight gain and vaginal canal-opening of F1 females were recorded. Sexually mature F1 females were mated to evaluate their reproductive performance by assessing the pregnancy rate, and on GD19, the number of corpora lutea, the implantation sites (IS) and resorption sites. To analyze second-generation effects on F2 offspring, we analyzed the fetal morphology on GD19, and assessed the fetal length and weight, and the placental weight. GBH exposure neither altered the body weight gain of F1 females, nor vaginal opening onset. Although all GBH-exposed F1 rats became pregnant, a lower number of IS was detected. F2 offspring from both GBH groups showed delayed growth, evidenced by lower fetal weight and length, associated with a higher incidence of small for gestational age fetuses. In addition, higher placental weight and placental index were found in F2 offspring from GBH-HD dams. Surprisingly, structural congenital anomalies (conjoined fetuses and abnormally developed limbs) were detected in the F2 offspring from GBH-HD group. In conclusion, perinatal exposure to low doses of a GBH impaired female reproductive performance and induced fetal growth retardation and structural congenital anomalies in F2 offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- María M Milesi
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL)-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Casilla de Correo 242, 3000, Santa Fe, Argentina.
| | - Virginia Lorenz
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL)-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Casilla de Correo 242, 3000, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Guillermina Pacini
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL)-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Casilla de Correo 242, 3000, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - María R Repetti
- Programa de Investigación y Análisis de Residuos y Contaminantes Químicos (PRINARC), Facultad de Ingeniería Química, UNL, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Luisina D Demonte
- Programa de Investigación y Análisis de Residuos y Contaminantes Químicos (PRINARC), Facultad de Ingeniería Química, UNL, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Jorgelina Varayoud
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL)-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Casilla de Correo 242, 3000, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Enrique H Luque
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL)-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Casilla de Correo 242, 3000, Santa Fe, Argentina
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Meyer DN, Baker BB, Baker TR. Ancestral TCDD Exposure Induces Multigenerational Histologic and Transcriptomic Alterations in Gonads of Male Zebrafish. Toxicol Sci 2018; 164:603-612. [PMID: 29788325 PMCID: PMC6061693 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfy115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), the classic aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonist, is a potent environmental toxicant and endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC) with known developmental toxicity in humans, rodents, and fish. Early life exposure to some EDCs, including TCDD, is linked to the occurrence of adult-onset and multigenerational disease. Previous work exposing juvenile F0 zebrafish (Danio rerio) to 50 ppt (parts per trillion) TCDD during reproductive development has shown male-mediated transgenerational decreases in fertility (F0-F2) and histologic and transcriptomic alterations in F0 testes. Here, we analyzed male germline alterations in F1 and F2 adult fish, looking for changes in testicular histology and gene expression inherited through the male lineage that could account for decreased reproductive capacity. Testes of TCDD-lineage F1 fish displayed an increase in spermatogonia (immature germ cells) and decrease in spermatozoa (mature germ cells). No histological changes were present in F2 fish. Transcriptomic analysis of exposed F1 and F2 testes revealed alterations in lipid and glucose metabolism, oxidation, xenobiotic response, and sperm cell development and maintenance genes, all of which are implicated in fertility outcomes. Overall, we found that differential expression of reproductive genes and reduced capacity of sperm cells to mature could account for the reproductive defects previously seen in TCDD-exposed male zebrafish and their descendants, providing insight into the distinct multigenerational effects of toxicant exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle N Meyer
- Department of Pharmacology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan 48201
| | - Bridget B Baker
- Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Center for Urban Responses to Environmental Stressors
- Division of Laboratory Animal Resources, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan 48202
| | - Tracie R Baker
- Department of Pharmacology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan 48201
- Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Center for Urban Responses to Environmental Stressors
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49
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Bruner-Tran KL, Mokshagundam S, Herington JL, Ding T, Osteen KG. Rodent Models of Experimental Endometriosis: Identifying Mechanisms of Disease and Therapeutic Targets. CURRENT WOMEN'S HEALTH REVIEWS 2018; 14:173-188. [PMID: 29861705 PMCID: PMC5925870 DOI: 10.2174/1573404813666170921162041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Revised: 08/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although it has been more than a century since endometriosis was initially described in the literature, understanding the etiology and natural history of the disease has been challenging. However, the broad utility of murine and rat models of experimental endometriosis has enabled the elucidation of a number of potentially targetable processes which may otherwise promote this disease. OBJECTIVE To review a variety of studies utilizing rodent models of endometriosis to illustrate their utility in examining mechanisms associated with development and progression of this disease. RESULTS Use of rodent models of endometriosis has provided a much broader understanding of the risk factors for the initial development of endometriosis, the cellular pathology of the disease and the identification of potential therapeutic targets. CONCLUSION Although there are limitations with any animal model, the variety of experimental endometriosis models that have been developed has enabled investigation into numerous aspects of this disease. Thanks to these models, our under-standing of the early processes of disease development, the role of steroid responsiveness, inflammatory processes and the peritoneal environment has been advanced. More recent models have begun to shed light on how epigenetic alterations con-tribute to the molecular basis of this disease as well as the multiple comorbidities which plague many patients. Continued de-velopments of animal models which aid in unraveling the mechanisms of endometriosis development provide the best oppor-tunity to identify therapeutic strategies to prevent or regress this enigmatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaylon L. Bruner-Tran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Nashville, TN37232, USA
| | - Shilpa Mokshagundam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Nashville, TN37232, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Herington
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN37232, USA
| | - Tianbing Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Nashville, TN37232, USA
| | - Kevin G. Osteen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Nashville, TN37232, USA
- VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, NashvilleTN37212, USA
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50
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Walker VR, Boyles AL, Pelch KE, Holmgren SD, Shapiro AJ, Blystone CR, Devito MJ, Newbold RR, Blain R, Hartman P, Thayer KA, Rooney AA. Human and animal evidence of potential transgenerational inheritance of health effects: An evidence map and state-of-the-science evaluation. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2018; 115:48-69. [PMID: 29549716 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2017.12.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2017] [Revised: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An increasing number of reports suggest early life exposures result in adverse effects in offspring who were never directly exposed; this phenomenon is termed "transgenerational inheritance." Given concern for public health implications for potential effects of exposures transmitted to subsequent generations, it is critical to determine how widespread and robust this phenomenon is and to identify the range of exposures and possible outcomes. OBJECTIVES This scoping report examines the evidence for transgenerational inheritance associated with exposure to a wide range of stressors in humans and animals to identify areas of consistency, uncertainty, data gaps, and to evaluate general risk of bias issues for the transgenerational study design. METHODS A protocol was developed to collect and categorize the literature into a systematic evidence map for transgenerational inheritance by health effects, exposures, and evidence streams following the Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT) approach for conducting literature-based health assessments. RESULTS A PubMed search yielded 63,758 unique records from which 257 relevant studies were identified and categorized into a systematic evidence map by evidence streams (46 human and 211 animal), broad health effect categories, and exposures. Data extracted from the individual studies are available in the Health Assessment Workspace Collaborative (HAWC) program. There are relatively few bodies of evidence where multiple studies evaluated the same exposure and the same or similar outcomes. Studies evaluated for risk of bias generally had multiple issues in design or conduct. CONCLUSIONS The evidence mapping illustrated that risk of bias, few studies, and heterogeneity in exposures and endpoints examined present serious limitations to available bodies of evidence for assessing transgenerational effects. Targeted research is suggested to addressed inconsistencies and risk of bias issues identified, and thereby establish more robust bodies of evidence to critically assess transgenerational effects - particularly by adding data on exposure-outcome pairs where there is some evidence (i.e., reproductive, metabolic, and neurological effects).
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Affiliation(s)
- Vickie R Walker
- Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT), Division of National Toxicology Program (NTP), National Institute of Environmental Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
| | - Abee L Boyles
- Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT), Division of National Toxicology Program (NTP), National Institute of Environmental Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Katherine E Pelch
- Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT), Division of National Toxicology Program (NTP), National Institute of Environmental Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | - Andrew J Shapiro
- Program Operations Branch, DNTP, NIEHS, NIH, DHHS, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Chad R Blystone
- Toxicology Branch, DNTP, NIEHS, NIH, DHHS, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Michael J Devito
- NTP Laboratory, DNTP, NIEHS, NIH, DHHS, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Retha R Newbold
- Researcher Emeritus, DNTP, NIEHS, NIH, DHHS, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | | | - Kristina A Thayer
- Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT), Division of National Toxicology Program (NTP), National Institute of Environmental Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Andrew A Rooney
- Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT), Division of National Toxicology Program (NTP), National Institute of Environmental Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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