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Pham The T, Nishijo M, Phan Van M, Nguyen Minh P, Pham Ngoc T, Vu Thi H, Nguyen Van C, Tran Ngoc N, Do Minh T, Dao Duc L, Tran Ngoc T, Trinh The S, Nishijo H. Effects of dioxin exposure on reproductive and thyroid hormone levels and male sexual function in airbase military workers in Vietnam. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024:10.1007/s11356-024-34364-w. [PMID: 39002082 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-34364-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Dioxins are endocrine disruptors that may disturb male sexual and reproductive function. Studies on human populations are limited, and their results are controversial. This study evaluated the impact of dioxin exposure on reproductive and thyroid hormone levels and sexual function in men. A total of 140 men working in four military airbases (three bases were formerly contaminated with dioxin by the herbicide spraying campaign in the Vietnam War) were recruited to measure the serum dioxin levels. Four reproductive hormones (testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and prolactin) and three thyroid hormones (free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxin (FT4), and thyroid stimulating hormone) were measured. Male sexual function endpoints including sexual drive, erection, ejaculation, problems, and overall satisfaction were assessed by the Brief Male Sexual Function Inventory. The percentage of subjects with low testosterone and LH levels was 19.6% and 16.7%, respectively. Dioxins, especially 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-P-dioxin and toxic equivalent concentrations of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/polychlorinated dibenzofurans, were inversely associated with testosterone and prolactin levels, but positively associated with FT3 and FT4, and showed adverse relationships with sexual function, such as sexual drive, problems, and overall satisfaction. Our results suggested that exposure to dioxin disrupts the homeostasis of reproductive and thyroid hormones leading to adverse effects on male sexual function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tai Pham The
- Institute of Biomedicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam Military Medical University, 222 Phung Hung, Ha Dong, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Muneko Nishijo
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Kanazawa Medical University, 1-1 Daigaku, Uchinada, Ishikawa, 920-0293, Japan
| | - Manh Phan Van
- Department of Military Hygiene, Vietnam Military Medical University, 160 Phung Hung, Ha Dong, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Phuong Nguyen Minh
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Vietnam Military Medical University, 160 Phung Hung, Ha Dong, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Thao Pham Ngoc
- Department of Functional Diagnosis, 103 Military Hospital, Vietnam Military Medical University, 12108, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Hoa Vu Thi
- Department of Military Hygiene, Vietnam Military Medical University, 160 Phung Hung, Ha Dong, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Chuyen Nguyen Van
- Department of Military Hygiene, Vietnam Military Medical University, 160 Phung Hung, Ha Dong, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Nghi Tran Ngoc
- Ministry of Health, Vietnam Government, Hanoi, 10060, Vietnam
| | - Trung Do Minh
- Institute of Biomedicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam Military Medical University, 222 Phung Hung, Ha Dong, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Long Dao Duc
- Institute of Biomedicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam Military Medical University, 222 Phung Hung, Ha Dong, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Tuan Tran Ngoc
- Institute of Biomedicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam Military Medical University, 222 Phung Hung, Ha Dong, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Son Trinh The
- Military Institute of Clinical Embryology and Histology, Vietnam Military Medical University, 222 Phung Hung, Ha Dong, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Hisao Nishijo
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Faculty of Human Sciences, University of East Asia, Shimonoseki-Shi, Yamaguchi, 751-8503, Japan
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Bhattacharya I, Sharma SS, Majumdar SS. Etiology of Male Infertility: an Update. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:942-965. [PMID: 38036863 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01401-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process of germ cell division and differentiation that involves extensive cross-talk between the developing germ cells and the somatic testicular cells. Defective endocrine signaling and/or intrinsic defects within the testes can adversely affect spermatogenic progression, leading to subfertility/infertility. In recent years, male infertility has been recognized as a global public health concern, and research over the last few decades has elucidated the complex etiology of male infertility. Congenital reproductive abnormalities, genetic mutations, and endocrine/metabolic dysfunction have been demonstrated to be involved in infertility/subfertility in males. Furthermore, acquired factors like exposure to environmental toxicants and lifestyle-related disorders such as illicit use of psychoactive drugs have been shown to adversely affect spermatogenesis. Despite the large body of available scientific literature on the etiology of male infertility, a substantial proportion of infertility cases are idiopathic in nature, with no known cause. The inability to treat such idiopathic cases stems from poor knowledge about the complex regulation of spermatogenesis. Emerging scientific evidence indicates that defective functioning of testicular Sertoli cells (Sc) may be an underlying cause of infertility/subfertility in males. Sc plays an indispensable role in regulating spermatogenesis, and impaired functional maturation of Sc has been shown to affect fertility in animal models as well as humans, suggesting abnormal Sc as a potential underlying cause of reproductive insufficiency/failure in such cases of unexplained infertility. This review summarizes the major causes of infertility/subfertility in males, with an emphasis on infertility due to dysregulated Sc function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indrashis Bhattacharya
- Department of Zoology, Central University of Kerala, Periye Campus, Kasaragod, 671320, Kerala, India.
| | - Souvik Sen Sharma
- National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, 500 032, Telangana, India
| | - Subeer S Majumdar
- National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, 500 032, Telangana, India.
- Gujarat Biotechnology University, Gandhinagar, GIFT City, Gandhinagar, 382355, Gujarat, India.
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India Aldana S, Colicino E, Cantoral Preciado A, Tolentino M, Baccarelli AA, Wright RO, Téllez Rojo MM, Valvi D. Longitudinal associations between early-life fluoride exposures and cardiometabolic outcomes in school-aged children. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 183:108375. [PMID: 38128386 PMCID: PMC10842303 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.108375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Fluoride is a natural mineral present in food, water, and dental products, constituting ubiquitous long-term exposure in early childhood and across the lifespan. Experimental evidence shows fluoride-induced lipid disturbances with potential implications for cardiometabolic health. However, epidemiological studies are scarce. For the first time, we evaluated associations between repeated fluoride measures and cardiometabolic outcomes in children. METHODS We studied ∼ 500 Mexican children from the Programming Research in Obesity, Growth, Environment and Social Stressors (PROGRESS) cohort with measurements on urinary fluoride at age 4, and dietary fluoride at ages 4, 6, and 8 years approximately. We used covariate-adjusted linear mixed-effects and linear regression models to assess fluoride associations with multiple cardiometabolic outcomes (ages 4-8): lipids (total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides), glucose, HbA1c, adipokines (leptin and adiponectin), body fat, and age- and sex-specific z-scores of body mass index (zBMI), waist circumference, and blood pressure. RESULTS Dietary fluoride intake at age 4 was associated with annual increases in triglycerides [β per-fluoride-doubling = 2.02 (95 % CI: 0.37, 3.69)], cholesterol [β = 1.46 (95 % CI: 0.52, 2.39)], HDL [β = 0.39 (95 % CI: 0.02, 0.76)], LDL [β = 0.87 (95 % CI: 0.02, 1.71)], and HbA1c [β = 0.76 (95 % CI: 0.28, 1.24)], and decreased leptin [β = -3.58 (95 % CI: -6.34, -0.75)] between the ages 4 and 8. In cross-sectional analyses at age 8, higher tertiles of fluoride exposure were associated with increases in zBMI, triglycerides, glucose, and leptin (p-tertile trend < 0.05). Stronger associations were observed in boys at year 8 and in girls prior to year 8 (p-sex interaction < 0.05). Fewer but consistent associations were observed for urinary fluoride at age 4, indicating increased annual changes in HDL and HbA1c with higher fluoride levels. CONCLUSION Dietary fluoride exposures in early- and mid-childhood were associated with adverse cardiometabolic outcomes in school-aged children. Further research is needed to elucidate whether these associations persist at later ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra India Aldana
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Elena Colicino
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Maricruz Tolentino
- Department of Nutrition, National Institute of Perinatology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Andrea A Baccarelli
- Departments of Environmental Health Sciences and Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robert O Wright
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Martha María Téllez Rojo
- Center for Nutrition and Health Research, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Damaskini Valvi
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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Cargnelutti F, Di Nisio A, Pallotti F, Spaziani M, Tarsitano MG, Paoli D, Foresta C. Risk factors on testicular function in adolescents. J Endocrinol Invest 2022; 45:1625-1639. [PMID: 35286610 PMCID: PMC9360118 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-022-01769-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Adolescence represents an important window for gonadal development. The aim of this review is to carry out a critical excursus of the most recent literature on endogenous and exogenous risk factors related to testicular function, focusing the research on adolescence period. METHODS A comprehensive literature search within PubMed was performed to provide a summary of currently available evidence regarding the impact on adolescence of varicocele, cryptorchidism, cancer, diabetes, lifestyle factors, endocrine disruptors, obesity and sexually transmitted diseases. We focused on human studies that evaluated a possible impact of these factors on puberty timing and their effects on andrological health. RESULTS Evidence collected seems to suggest that andrological health in adolescence may be impaired by several factors, as varicocele, cryptorchidism, and childhood cancer. Despite an early diagnosis and treatment, many adolescents might still have symptoms and sign of a testicular dysfunction in their adult life and at the current time it is not possible to predict which of them will experience andrological problems. Lifestyle factors might have a role in these discrepancies. Most studies point out towards a correlation between obesity, insulin resistance, alcohol, smoking, use of illegal drugs and testicular function in pubertal boys. Also, endocrine disruptors and sexually transmitted diseases might contribute to impair reproductive health, but more studies in adolescents are needed. CONCLUSION According to currently available evidence, there is an emerging global adverse trend of high-risk and unhealthy behaviors in male adolescents. A significant proportion of young men with unsuspected and undiagnosed andrological disorders engage in behaviors that could impair testicular development and function, with an increased risk for later male infertility and/or hypogonadism during the adult life. Therefore, adolescence should be considered a key time for intervention and prevention of later andrological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Cargnelutti
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - A Di Nisio
- Department of Medicine, Operative Unit of Andrology and Medicine of Human Reproduction, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - F Pallotti
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - M Spaziani
- Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - M G Tarsitano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - D Paoli
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - C Foresta
- Department of Medicine, Operative Unit of Andrology and Medicine of Human Reproduction, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
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Prenatal Environmental Exposure to Persistent Organic Pollutants and Reproductive Hormone Profile and Pubertal Development in Dutch Adolescents. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19159423. [PMID: 35954780 PMCID: PMC9367960 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Persistent organic pollutants (POPs), such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), may interfere with hormonal processes. Knowledge about the effects of prenatal exposure to PCBs and their hydroxylated metabolites (OH-PCBs) on pubertal development is limited. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to determine whether prenatal environmental PCB and OH-PCB exposure are associated with reproductive hormone levels and pubertal characteristics in 13- to 15-year-old children. In this Dutch observational cohort study, 194 mother–infant pairs were included (1998–2002). Maternal pregnancy serum levels of PCBs, OH-PCBs, and other POPs were measured. At follow-up (2014–2016), we measured serum or plasma levels of reproductive hormones in their children. We assessed Tanner stages and testicular volume (by clinician or standardized self-assessment), and participants completed questionnaires on pubertal onset. In total, 101 adolescents (14.4 ± 0.8 years; 53.7% of invited) participated, and 55 were boys. In boys, higher prenatal PCB levels were associated with higher testosterone levels, higher pubic hair stage, larger testicular volume, and younger age at onset of growth spurt and voice break. In girls, higher prenatal PCB levels were associated with higher stages for breast development. In conclusion, higher prenatal PCB exposure could be associated with more advanced pubertal development in 13- to 15-year-old children.
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Schettgen T, Esser A, Kraus T, Ziegler P. Plasma levels of unintentionally produced non-Aroclor polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners in workers from the silicone rubber industry. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 291:132722. [PMID: 34718009 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.132722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The unintentional release of non-Aroclor-PCBs 47, PCB 68 and PCB 51 by a silicone manufacturing company in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, due to the use of bis-(2,4-dichlorobenzoyl)peroxide (2,4-DCBP) as an initiator has raised serious concerns about the possible uptake of these congeners by workers in silicone rubber production. We have conducted a pilot study in Germany to quantify these congeners in plasma samples of employees working in and handling silicone rubber during production and electrical cable manufacturing. A total of 117 plasma samples were collected from workers in 7 companies and 84 plasma samples from control subjects not working in silicone industry. PCB 47 and PCB 68 were detected in plasma above the limit of quantification (0.01 μg/L) in 84% and 66% of the silicone industry workers, respectively, whereas both congeners were undetectable in plasma of the control group. The maximum levels for PCB 47 were 2.56 μg/L and for PCB 68 were 0.42 μg/L. PCB 51 could not be determined in any plasma sample. Plasma samples of workers making electric cables had in general lower levels than those from workers making silicone rubber. Due to the high persistence of PCBs and the poorly defined toxicological properties of PCB 47 and PCB 68, a replacement of 2,4-DCBP as initiator in silicone rubber production should be considered. Given the large market for silicone products, our results might have a global impact on silicone industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Schettgen
- Institute for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, D-52074, Aachen, Germany.
| | - André Esser
- Institute for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, D-52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Thomas Kraus
- Institute for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, D-52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Patrick Ziegler
- Institute for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, D-52074, Aachen, Germany
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West CN, Schell LM, Gallo MV. Sex differences in the association of measures of sexual maturation to common toxicants: Lead, dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane (DDT), dichloro-diphenyl-dichloroethylene (DDE), and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Ann Hum Biol 2022; 48:485-502. [PMID: 35105206 DOI: 10.1080/03014460.2021.1998623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Many studies of human toxicant exposure examine the hypothesis that human sexual maturation can be affected through endocrine disruption. Within this body of literature there is significant variation in the findings. Variation may be related to the differential effects by toxicants between males and females as well as variation in sample size, toxicant levels, and the timing of exposure. We review sexual maturation outcomes between males and females when exposed to lead, dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane (DDT), and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) using a systematic process to gather peer-reviewed studies published from January 1994 through December 2019 on the NCBI website's PubMed search engine. The review includes 34 studies, some comprised of multiple analyses, to compare effects on sexual maturation by sex. The analysis shows that both boys and girls have delayed sexual maturation in relation to lead exposure. There are differences in the direction of effects associated with DDE/DDT and PCB exposure in boys and girls. PCBs exist as congeners of many structural forms, and that variation is considered in this review. Dioxin-like and non-dioxin-like PCBs exposure directionality differed between boys and girls as well. Future investigations into the basis of sex variation in DDE/DDT and PCB relationships to sexual maturation are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey N West
- Department of Anthropology, University at Albany, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Lawrence M Schell
- Department of Anthropology, University at Albany, Albany, NY, USA.,Center for the Elimination of Minority Health Disparities, University at Albany, Albany, NY, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University at Albany, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Mia V Gallo
- Department of Anthropology, University at Albany, Albany, NY, USA.,Center for the Elimination of Minority Health Disparities, University at Albany, Albany, NY, USA
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Buser MC, Pohl HR, Abadin HG. Windows of sensitivity to toxic chemicals in the development of the endocrine system: an analysis of ATSDR's toxicological profile database. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2022; 32:437-454. [PMID: 32495642 PMCID: PMC7714698 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2020.1772204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This review utilizes the robust database of literature contained in toxicological profiles developed by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. The aim was to use this database to identify developmental toxicity studies reporting alterations in hormone levels in the developing fetus and offspring and identify windows of sensitivity. We identified 74 oral exposure studies in rats that provided relevant information on 30 chemicals from 21 profiles. Most studies located provided information on thyroid hormones, with fewer studies on anterior pituitary, adrenal medulla, ovaries, and testes. No studies pertaining to hormones of the posterior pituitary, pancreas, or adrenal cortex were located. The results demonstrate that development of the endocrine system may be affected by exposure to environmental contaminants at many different points, including gestational and/or lactational exposure. Moreover, this review demonstrates the need for more developmental toxicity studies focused on the endocrine system and specifically alterations in hormone levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Buser
- US Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Toxicology and Human Health Sciences, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - H R Pohl
- US Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Toxicology and Human Health Sciences, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - H G Abadin
- US Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Toxicology and Human Health Sciences, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), Atlanta, GA, USA
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Uldbjerg CS, Koch T, Lim YH, Gregersen LS, Olesen CS, Andersson AM, Frederiksen H, Coull BA, Hauser R, Juul A, Bräuner EV. OUP accepted manuscript. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 28:687-716. [PMID: 35466359 PMCID: PMC9434240 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, the ages at pubertal onset for girls and boys have been decreasing during recent decades, partly attributed to excess body fat accumulation. However, a growing body of literature has recognized that endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) may play an important role in this global trend, but the association has not yet been fully established. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE EDCs can interfere with normal hormone function and metabolism and play a role in pubertal onset. We aimed to systematically identify and evaluate the current evidence on the timing of pubertal onset in girls and boys following prenatal or postnatal exposures to xenobiotic EDCs. SEARCH METHODS Following PRISMA guidelines, we performed a systematic literature search of original peer-reviewed publications in the PubMed database through a block search approach using a combination of index MeSH and free text search terms. Publications were considered if they covered biomarkers of prenatal or postnatal exposures to xenobiotic EDCs (European Commission's list of category 1 EDCs) measured in maternal or child biospecimen and pubertal onset defined by the progression of the following milestones (and assessed in terms of the following measures): menarche (age), thelarche (Tanner staging) and pubarche (Tanner staging), in girls, and genital stage (Tanner staging), testicular volume (ml) and pubarche (Tanner staging), in boys. OUTCOMES The literature search resulted in 703 references, of which we identified 52 publications fulfilling the eligibility criteria for the qualitative trend synthesis and 23 publications for the meta-analysis. The qualitative trend synthesis provided data on 103 combinations of associations between prenatal or postnatal exposure to EDC compounds groups and puberty outcomes and the meta-analysis enabled 18 summary risk estimates of meta-associations. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Statistically significant associations in the qualitative trend synthesis suggested that postnatal exposure to phthalates may be associated with earlier thelarche and later pubarche. However, we did not find consistent evidence in the meta-analysis for associations between timing of pubertal onset in girls and boys and exposures to any of the studied xenobiotic EDCs. We were not able to identify specific pre- or postnatal windows of exposure as particularly critical and susceptible for effects of EDCs. Current evidence is subject to several methodological challenges and inconsistencies and evidence on specific exposure-outcome associations remains too scarce to firmly confirm EDC exposure as a risk factor for changes in age of pubertal onset in the general child population. To create a more uniform foundation for future comparison of evidence and to strengthen pooled studies, we recommend the use of more standardized approaches in the choice of statistical analyses, with exposure transformations, and in the definitions and assessments of puberty outcomes. The impact of mixtures of EDC exposures on the association also remains unestablished and would be valuable to elucidate for prenatal and postnatal windows of exposure. Future large, longitudinal epidemiological studies are needed to clarify the overall association.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Y -H Lim
- Section of Environmental Health, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - L S Gregersen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- The International Research and Research Training Centre in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - C S Olesen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- The International Research and Research Training Centre in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - A -M Andersson
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- The International Research and Research Training Centre in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - H Frederiksen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- The International Research and Research Training Centre in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - B A Coull
- Department of Biostatistics, T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - R Hauser
- Department of Environmental Health, T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - A Juul
- Correspondence address. Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark. Tel: +45-3545-5085; E-mail: (A.J.); Tel: +45-4242-8550; E-mail: (E.V.B.)
| | - E V Bräuner
- Correspondence address. Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark. Tel: +45-3545-5085; E-mail: (A.J.); Tel: +45-4242-8550; E-mail: (E.V.B.)
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Sakali AK, Bargiota A, Fatouros IG, Jamurtas A, Macut D, Mastorakos G, Papagianni M. Effects on Puberty of Nutrition-Mediated Endocrine Disruptors Employed in Agriculture. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13114184. [PMID: 34836437 PMCID: PMC8622967 DOI: 10.3390/nu13114184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pesticide residues are largely found in daily consumed food because of their extensive use in farming and their long half-life, which prolongs their presence in the environment. Many of these pesticides act as endocrine-disrupting chemicals after pre- or postnatal exposure, significantly affecting, among other things, the time of puberty onset, progression, and completion. In humans, precocious or delayed puberty, and early or delayed sexual maturation, may entail several negative long-term health implications. In this review, we summarize the current evidence on the impact of endocrine-disrupting pesticides upon the timing of the landmarks of female and male puberty in both animals (vaginal opening, first estrus, and balanopreputial separation) and humans (thelarche, menarche, gonadarche). Moreover, we explore the possible mechanisms of action of the reviewed endocrine-disrupting pesticides on the human reproductive system. Access to safe, healthy, and nutritious food is fundamental for the maintenance of health and wellbeing. Eliminating the presence of hazardous chemicals in largely consumed food products may increase their nutritional value and be proven beneficial for overall health. Consequently, understanding the effects of human exposure to hazardous endocrine-disrupting pesticides, and legislating against their circulation, are of major importance for the protection of health in vulnerable populations, such as children and adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Konstantina Sakali
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece; (A.K.S.); (A.B.)
| | - Alexandra Bargiota
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece; (A.K.S.); (A.B.)
| | - Ioannis G. Fatouros
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (I.G.F.); (A.J.)
| | - Athanasios Jamurtas
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (I.G.F.); (A.J.)
| | - Djuro Macut
- Clinic of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Clinical Center of Serbia, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - George Mastorakos
- Unit of Endocrinology, Diabetes Mellitus and Metabolism, Aretaieion University Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece;
| | - Maria Papagianni
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Thessaly, 42132 Trikala, Greece
- Unit of Endocrinology, 3rd Department of Pediatrics, Hippokration Hospital of Thessaloniki, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Correspondence:
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11
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Cargnelutti F, Di Nisio A, Pallotti F, Sabovic I, Spaziani M, Tarsitano MG, Paoli D, Foresta C. Effects of endocrine disruptors on fetal testis development, male puberty, and transition age. Endocrine 2021; 72:358-374. [PMID: 32757113 PMCID: PMC8128728 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-020-02436-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Endocrine disruptors (EDs) are exogenous substances able to impair endocrine system; consequently, they may cause numerous adverse effects. Over the last years, particular focus has been given to their harmful effects on reproductive system, but very little is known, especially in males. The aim of this review is to discuss the detrimental effects of EDs exposure on fetal testis development, male puberty, and transition age. METHODS A search for the existing literature focusing on the impact of EDs on fetal testis development, male puberty, andrological parameters (anogenital distance, penile length, and testicular volume), and testicular cancer with particular regard to pubertal age provided the most current information available for this review. Human evidence-based reports were given priority over animal and in vitro experimental results. Given the paucity of available articles on this subject, all resources were given careful consideration. RESULTS Information about the consequences associated with EDs exposure in the current literature is limited and often conflicting, due to the scarcity of human studies and their heterogeneity. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that current evidence does not clarify the impact of EDs on human male reproductive health, although severe harmful effects had been reported in animals. Despite controversial results, overall conclusion points toward a positive association between exposure to EDs and reproductive system damage. Further long-term studies performed on wide number of subjects are necessary in order to identify damaging compounds and remove them from the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Cargnelutti
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Di Nisio
- Department of Medicine, Operative Unit of Andrology and Medicine of Human Reproduction, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - Francesco Pallotti
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Iva Sabovic
- Department of Medicine, Operative Unit of Andrology and Medicine of Human Reproduction, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - Matteo Spaziani
- Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Tarsitano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Paoli
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Carlo Foresta
- Department of Medicine, Operative Unit of Andrology and Medicine of Human Reproduction, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
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12
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Lopez-Rodriguez D, Franssen D, Bakker J, Lomniczi A, Parent AS. Cellular and molecular features of EDC exposure: consequences for the GnRH network. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2021; 17:83-96. [PMID: 33288917 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-020-00436-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The onset of puberty and the female ovulatory cycle are important developmental milestones of the reproductive system. These processes are controlled by a tightly organized network of neurotransmitters and neuropeptides, as well as genetic, epigenetic and hormonal factors, which ultimately drive the pulsatile secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone. They also strongly depend on organizational processes that take place during fetal and early postnatal life. Therefore, exposure to environmental pollutants such as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) during critical periods of development can result in altered brain development, delayed or advanced puberty and long-term reproductive consequences, such as impaired fertility. The gonads and peripheral organs are targets of EDCs, and research from the past few years suggests that the organization of the neuroendocrine control of reproduction is also sensitive to environmental cues and disruption. Among other mechanisms, EDCs interfere with the action of steroidal and non-steroidal receptors, and alter enzymatic, metabolic and epigenetic pathways during development. In this Review, we discuss the cellular and molecular consequences of perinatal exposure (mostly in rodents) to representative EDCs with a focus on the neuroendocrine control of reproduction, pubertal timing and the female ovulatory cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Delphine Franssen
- Neuroendocrinology Unit, GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Julie Bakker
- Neuroendocrinology Unit, GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Alejandro Lomniczi
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center (ONPRC), OHSU, OR, USA
| | - Anne-Simone Parent
- Neuroendocrinology Unit, GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium.
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Liège, Liège, Belgium.
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Furue M, Ishii Y, Tsukimori K, Tsuji G. Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor and Dioxin-Related Health Hazards-Lessons from Yusho. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020708. [PMID: 33445793 PMCID: PMC7828254 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Poisoning by high concentrations of dioxin and its related compounds manifests variable toxic symptoms such as general malaise, chloracne, hyperpigmentation, sputum and cough, paresthesia or numbness of the extremities, hypertriglyceridemia, perinatal abnormalities, and elevated risks of cancer-related mortality. Such health hazards are observed in patients with Yusho (oil disease in Japanese) who had consumed rice bran oil highly contaminated with 2,3,4,7,8-pentachlorodibenzofuran, polychlorinated biphenyls, and polychlorinated quaterphenyls in 1968. The blood concentrations of these congeners in patients with Yusho remain extremely elevated 50 years after onset. Dioxins exert their toxicity via aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) through the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In this review article, we discuss the pathogenic implication of AHR in dioxin-induced health hazards. We also mention the potential therapeutic use of herbal drugs targeting AHR and ROS in patients with Yusho.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masutaka Furue
- Research and Clinical Center for Yusho and Dioxin, Kyushu University Hospital, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan;
- Department of Dermatology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-92-642-5581; Fax: +81-92-642-5600
| | - Yuji Ishii
- Division of Pharmaceutical Cell Biology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan;
| | - Kiyomi Tsukimori
- Department of Obstetrics, Perinatal Center, Fukuoka Children’s Hospital, Fukuoka 813-0017, Japan;
| | - Gaku Tsuji
- Research and Clinical Center for Yusho and Dioxin, Kyushu University Hospital, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan;
- Department of Dermatology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
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Eustache F, Bennani Smires B, Moison D, Bergès R, Canivenc-Lavier MC, Vaiman D, Auger J. Different exposure windows to low doses of genistein and/or vinclozolin result in contrasted disorders of testis function and gene expression of exposed rats and their unexposed progeny. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 190:109975. [PMID: 32827888 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Living species including humans are continuously exposed to low levels of a myriad of endocrine active compounds that may affect their reproductive function. In contrast, experimental designs scrutinizing this question mostly consider the gestational/lactational period, select high unrealistic doses and, have rarely investigated the possible reproductive consequences in the progeny. The present study aimed at assessing comparatively a set of male reproductive endpoints according to exposure windows, gestational/lactational versus pre-pubertal to adulthood, using low doses of endocrine active substances in male rats as well as their unexposed male progeny. Animals were orally exposed to 1 mg/kg bw/d of genistein and/or vinclozolin, from conception to weaning or from prepuberty to young adulthood. A number of reproductive endpoints were assessed as well as testicular mRNA expression profiles, in the exposed rats and their unexposed progeny. Overall, the low dosage used only affected weakly most of classical reproductive endpoints. However, the gestational/lactational exposure to vinclozolin alone or combined to genistein significantly delayed the puberty onset. Contrasting with the gestational/lactational exposure, a decreased sperm production was found in the animals exposed to genistein and vinclozolin from the pre-pubertal period but also in their progeny for vinclozolin and the mixture. The expression level of several genes involved in meiosis, apoptosis and steroidogenesis was also affected differentially as a function of the exposure window in both exposed rats and unexposed offspring. We also provide further evidence that doses of endocrine active substances relevant with human exposure may affect the male reproductive phenotype and testicular transcriptome in the exposed generation as well as in the indirectly exposed offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence Eustache
- Service D'Histologie-Embryologie, Cytogénétique, Biologie de La Reproduction / CECOS, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Seine-Saint-Denis, Site Jean Verdier, Bondy, France; INSERM U1016, Equipe "Génomique, Epigénétique et Physiologie de La Reproduction", Institut Cochin, Université Paris 5, Paris, France.
| | - Badria Bennani Smires
- Service D'Histologie-Embryologie, Cytogénétique, Biologie de La Reproduction / CECOS, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Seine-Saint-Denis, Site Jean Verdier, Bondy, France; INSERM U1016, Equipe "Génomique, Epigénétique et Physiologie de La Reproduction", Institut Cochin, Université Paris 5, Paris, France
| | - Delphine Moison
- INSERM UMR967, Laboratoire de Développement des Gonades, Equipe "Stabilité Génomique, Cellules Souches et Radiations", Université Paris 7, Sorbonne Paris Cité and CEA, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Raymond Bergès
- INRA UMR1324, Centre des Sciences Du Goût et de L'Alimentation, Dijon, France
| | | | - Daniel Vaiman
- INSERM U1016, Equipe "Génomique, Epigénétique et Physiologie de La Reproduction", Institut Cochin, Université Paris 5, Paris, France
| | - Jacques Auger
- INSERM U1016, Equipe "Génomique, Epigénétique et Physiologie de La Reproduction", Institut Cochin, Université Paris 5, Paris, France
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15
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He QL, Lyu TQ, Zhang YT, Wang HQ, Zhou Q, Zhang JM, Liu YY, Li JS, Jiang LG, Cheng D, Ge ZJ, Liu SZ. Effects of intrauterine exposure to 2,3',4,4',5-pentachlorobiphenyl on the reproductive system and sperm epigenetic imprinting of male offspring. J Appl Toxicol 2020; 40:1396-1409. [PMID: 32418265 DOI: 10.1002/jat.3992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a class of persistent organic environmental pollutants with a total of 209 homologs. The homolog 2,3',4,4',5-pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB118) is one of the most important dioxin-like PCBs and is highly toxic. PCB118 can accumulate in human tissues, serum and breast milk, which leads to direct exposure of the fetus during development. In the present study, pregnant mice were exposed to 0, 20 and 100 μg/kg/day of PCB118 during the stage of fetal primordial germ cell migration. Compared with the control group, we found morphological alterations of the seminiferous tubules and a higher sperm deformity rate in the male offspring in the treatment groups. Furthermore, the methylation patterns in the treatment groups of the imprinted genes H19 and Gtl2 in the sperm were altered in the male offspring. We also characterized the disturbance of the expression levels of DNA methyltransferase 1 (Dnmt1), Dnmt3a, Dnmt3b, Dnmt3l, and Uhrf1. The results indicated that intrauterine exposure to low doses of PCB118 could significantly damage the reproductive health of the male offspring. Therefore, attention should be paid to the adverse effects of PCB118 exposure during pregnancy on the reproductive system of male offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi-Long He
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Tian-Qi Lyu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Yong-Tao Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Hai-Quan Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Qian Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Mei Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Liu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Jia-Shuo Li
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Li-Gang Jiang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Dong Cheng
- Department of Toxicology, Shandong Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jinan, China
| | - Zhao-Jia Ge
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shu-Zhen Liu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
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16
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Jansen A, Berg JP, Klungsøyr O, Müller MHB, Lyche JL, Aaseth JO. The Influence of Persistent Organic Pollutants on Thyroidal, Reproductive and Adrenal Hormones After Bariatric Surgery. Obes Surg 2019; 30:1368-1378. [DOI: 10.1007/s11695-019-04273-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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17
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Cheng SL, Li X, Lehmler HJ, Phillips B, Shen D, Cui JY. Gut Microbiota Modulates Interactions Between Polychlorinated Biphenyls and Bile Acid Homeostasis. Toxicol Sci 2019; 166:269-287. [PMID: 30496569 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfy208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiome is increasingly recognized as a second genome that contributes to the health and diseases of the host. A major function of the gut microbiota is to convert primary bile acids (BAs) produced from cholesterol in the liver into secondary BAs that activate distinct host receptors to modulate xenobiotic metabolism and energy homeostasis. The goal of this study was to investigate to what extent oral exposure to an environmentally relevant polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs mixture), namely the Fox River mixture, impacts gut microbiome and BA homeostasis. Ninety-day-old adult female conventional (CV) and germ-free (GF) C57BL/6 mice were orally exposed to corn oil (vehicle), or the Fox River mixture at 6 or 30 mg/kg once daily for 3 consecutive days. The PCB low dose profoundly increased BA metabolism related bacteria Akkermansia (A.) muciniphila, Clostridium (C.) scindens, and Enterococcus in the large intestinal pellet (LIP) of CV mice (16S rRNA sequencing/qPCR). This correlated with a PCB low dose-mediated increase in multiple BAs in serum and small intestinal content (SIP) in a gut microbiota-dependent manner (UPLC-MS/MS). Conversely, at PCB high dose, BA levels remained stable in CV mice correlated with an increase in hepatic efflux transporters and ileal Fgf15. Interestingly, lack of gut microbiota potentiated the PCB-mediated increase in taurine conjugated α and β muricholic acids in liver, SIP, and LIP. Pearson's correlation identified positive correlations between 5 taxa and most secondary BAs. In conclusion, PCBs dose-dependently altered BA homeostasis through a joint effort between host gut-liver axis and intestinal bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunny Lihua Cheng
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98105
| | - Xueshu Li
- Department of Occupational & Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242
| | - Hans-Joachim Lehmler
- Department of Occupational & Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242
| | - Brian Phillips
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, 98105
| | - Danny Shen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, 98105
| | - Julia Yue Cui
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98105
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18
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Berghuis SA, Roze E. Prenatal exposure to PCBs and neurological and sexual/pubertal development from birth to adolescence. Curr Probl Pediatr Adolesc Health Care 2019; 49:133-159. [PMID: 31147261 DOI: 10.1016/j.cppeds.2019.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Several chemical compounds are resistant to degradation and end up in the food chain. One group of these chemicals is polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) which are used as flame retardants and plasticizers. Although PCBs were banned several decades ago, PCBs are still found in environmental media, including in the body of humans. PCBs are transferred from mother to fetus via the placenta during pregnancy. Considering that the prenatal period is a sensitive period during which essential developmental processes take place, exposure to environmental chemicals might have considerable and permanent consequences for outcomes in later life. The aim of this review is to provide an update on the latest insights on the effects of prenatal exposure to PCBs on neurological, sexual and pubertal development in children. We give an overview of recent literature, and discuss it in the light of the findings in a unique Dutch birth cohort, with data on both neurological and pubertal development into adolescence. The findings in the studies included in this review, together with the findings in the Dutch cohort, demonstrate that prenatal exposure to PCBs can interfere with normal child development, not only during the perinatal period, but up to and including adolescence. Higher prenatal exposure to PCBs was found to be both negatively and positively associated with neurodevelopmental outcomes. Regarding pubertal development, higher prenatal PCB exposure was found to be associated with more advanced pubertal development, also in the Dutch cohort, whereas other studies also found delayed pubertal development. These findings raise concern regarding the effects of man-made chemical compounds on child development. They further contribute to the awareness of how environmental chemical compounds can interfere with child development and negatively influence healthy ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sietske Annette Berghuis
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Beatrix Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, PO Box 30.001, 9713 GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Elise Roze
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University of Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Fudvoye J, Lopez-Rodriguez D, Franssen D, Parent AS. Endocrine disrupters and possible contribution to pubertal changes. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 33:101300. [PMID: 31401055 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2019.101300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The onset of puberty strongly depends on organizational processes taking place during the fetal and early postnatal life. Therefore, exposure to environmental pollutants such as Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) during critical periods of development can result in delayed/advanced puberty and long-term reproductive consequences. Human evidence of altered pubertal timing after exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals is equivocal. However, the age distribution of pubertal signs points to a skewed distribution towards earliness for initial pubertal stages and towards lateness for final pubertal stages. Such distortion of distribution is a recent phenomenon and suggests environmental influences including the possible role of nutrition, stress and endocrine disruptors. Rodent and ovine studies indicate a role of fetal and neonatal exposure to EDCs, along the concept of early origin of health and disease. Such effects involve neuroendocrine mechanisms at the level of the hypothalamus where homeostasis of reproduction is programmed and regulated but also peripheral effects at the level of the gonads or the mammary gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Fudvoye
- Neuroendocrinology Unit, GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, Sart-Tilman, B-4000, Liège, Belgium; Department of Pediatrics, CHU de Liège, Rue de Gaillarmont 600, B-4032, Chênée, Belgium
| | - David Lopez-Rodriguez
- Neuroendocrinology Unit, GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, Sart-Tilman, B-4000, Liège, Belgium
| | - Delphine Franssen
- Neuroendocrinology Unit, GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, Sart-Tilman, B-4000, Liège, Belgium
| | - Anne-Simone Parent
- Neuroendocrinology Unit, GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, Sart-Tilman, B-4000, Liège, Belgium; Department of Pediatrics, CHU de Liège, Rue de Gaillarmont 600, B-4032, Chênée, Belgium.
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20
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Abass K, Emelyanova A, Rautio A. Temporal trends of contaminants in Arctic human populations. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:28834-28850. [PMID: 30145756 PMCID: PMC6592971 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-2936-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The first Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme (AMAP) report was published in 1998 and followed by three assessment reports of human health (AMAP 2003, 2009 and 2015). The focus area of the AMAP reports was to monitor levels of environmental contaminants in the Arctic and to assess the health effects connected with detected levels in Arctic countries. This review gives an overview of temporal trends of contaminants and their health effects in humans of the Arctic based on data published by AMAP, as well as Russian scientific literature. Several time series of 31 contaminants in humans of the Arctic from different cohorts are reported. The lengths of time series and periods covered differ from each other. International restrictions have decreased the levels of most persistent organic pollutants in humans and food webs. Percentage changes for contaminants in human biological matrices (blood samples from children, mothers and males and breast milk samples) for the period of sampling showed declining trends in most of the monitored Arctic locations, with the exception of oxychlordane, hexachlorobenzene (HCB), 2,2',4,4',5,5'-hexabromodiphenyl ether (PBDE153) and perfluorinated compounds (PFCs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled Abass
- Arctic Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, FI-90014, Oulu, Finland.
- Department of Pesticides, Menoufia University, P.O. Box 32511, Menoufia, Egypt.
| | | | - Arja Rautio
- Arctic Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 5000, FI-90014, Oulu, Finland
- Thule Institute & University of Arctic, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
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Reproductive Function in a Population of Young Faroese Men with Elevated Exposure to Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) and Perfluorinated Alkylate Substances (PFAS). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15091880. [PMID: 30200252 PMCID: PMC6165232 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15091880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Revised: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Semen quality may be adversely affected by exposure to environmental chemicals such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and perfluorinated alkylate substances (PFASs) that are persistent and may act as endocrine disrupting compounds. The aim of this study was to explore whether PCBs or PFASs exposure were associated with abnormalities in semen quality or reproductive hormones in Faroese men. This population based cross-sectional study includes 263 Faroese men (24⁻26 years) who delivered a semen sample for assessment of sperm concentration, total sperm count, semen volume, morphology and motility. A blood sample was drawn and analyzed for reproductive hormones, PCBs and PFASs. Exposure to ∑PCBs and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) was positively associated with sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and luteinizing hormone (LH). In addition, total testosterone (T) was positively associated with ∑PCB. Both PCBs and PFOS appear to lead to increased SHBG, perhaps mediated via the liver. The higher total T associated with PCB may represent a compensatory adaption to elevated SHBG levels to maintain an unchanged free testosterone concentration. The positive association to LH for both PCBs and PFOS may indicate a direct adverse effect on the testosterone producing Leydig cells.
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22
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Van Luong H, Tai PT, Nishijo M, Trung DM, Thao PN, Van Son P, Van Long N, Linh NT, Nishijo H. Association of dioxin exposure and reproductive hormone levels in men living near the Bien Hoa airbase, Vietnam. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 628-629:484-489. [PMID: 29453177 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.02.094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Revised: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Dioxins are endocrine-disrupting chemicals, and their effects on reproductive functions are well-documented. The aim of the present study was to measure the levels of reproductive hormones in 42 men residing near a dioxin-contaminated area in Vietnam. We measured levels of 17 2,3,7,8-substituted congeners of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and four non-ortho polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in blood. Levels of follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, progesterone, prolactin, estradiol, and total testosterone were measured in serum. Blood dioxin levels were elevated; the levels of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin was 7.3pg/g fat. Seven of the men had testosterone levels below 250ng/dL, and nine men had prolactin levels above 9.7ng/mL. Four PCDD congeners, two PCDF congeners, one PCB congener, and the sum TEQ of PCDDs, PCDDs/Fs, and PCDDs/Fs/PCBs were positively and significantly correlated with prolactin levels. Two PCDD congeners, six PCDF congeners, two PCB congeners, and the TEQs of PCDFs and PCBs were negatively and significantly correlated with testosterone levels. There were no significant correlations between dioxin congeners and follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, or progesterone levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoang Van Luong
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Center, Vietnam Military Medical University, 160-Phung Hung, Ha Dong, Ha Noi, Viet Nam
| | - Pham The Tai
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Center, Vietnam Military Medical University, 160-Phung Hung, Ha Dong, Ha Noi, Viet Nam.
| | - Muneko Nishijo
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Kanazawa Medical University, 1-1 Daigaku, Uchinada, Ishikawa 920-0293, Japan
| | - Do Minh Trung
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Center, Vietnam Military Medical University, 160-Phung Hung, Ha Dong, Ha Noi, Viet Nam
| | - Pham Ngoc Thao
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Center, Vietnam Military Medical University, 160-Phung Hung, Ha Dong, Ha Noi, Viet Nam; Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Kanazawa Medical University, 1-1 Daigaku, Uchinada, Ishikawa 920-0293, Japan
| | - Pham Van Son
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Center, Vietnam Military Medical University, 160-Phung Hung, Ha Dong, Ha Noi, Viet Nam
| | - Nguyen Van Long
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Center, Vietnam Military Medical University, 160-Phung Hung, Ha Dong, Ha Noi, Viet Nam
| | - Nguyen Tung Linh
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Center, Vietnam Military Medical University, 160-Phung Hung, Ha Dong, Ha Noi, Viet Nam
| | - Hisao Nishijo
- System Emotional Science, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Japan
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Hattori Y, Takeda T, Nakamura A, Nishida K, Shioji Y, Fukumitsu H, Yamada H, Ishii Y. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor is indispensable for dioxin-induced defects in sexually-dimorphic behaviors due to the reduction in fetal steroidogenesis of the pituitary-gonadal axis in rats. Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 154:213-221. [PMID: 29753751 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Many forms of the toxic effects produced by dioxins and related chemicals take place following activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). Our previous studies have demonstrated that treating pregnant rats with 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), a highly toxic dioxin, attenuates the pituitary expression of gonadotropins to reduce testicular steroidogenesis during the fetal stage, resulting in the impairment of sexually-dimorphic behaviors after the offspring reach maturity. To investigate the contribution of AHR to these disorders, we examined the effects of TCDD on AHR-knockout (AHR-KO) Wistar rats. When pregnant AHR-heterozygous rats were given an oral dose of 1 µg/kg TCDD at gestational day (GD) 15, TCDD reduced the expression of pituitary gonadotropins and testicular steroidogenic proteins in male wild-type fetuses at GD20 without affecting body weight, sex ratio and litter size. However, the same defect did not occur in AHR-KO fetuses. Further, fetal exposure to TCDD impaired the activity of masculine sexual behavior after reaching adulthood only in the wild-type offspring. Also, in female offspring, not only the fetal gonadotropins production but also sexual dimorphism, such as saccharin preference, after growing up were suppressed by TCDD only in the wild-type. Interestingly, in the absence of TCDD, deleting AHR reduced masculine sexual behavior, as well as fetal steroidogenesis of the pituitary-gonadal axis. These results provide novel evidence that 1) AHR is required for TCDD-produced defects in sexually-dimorphic behaviors of the offspring, and 2) AHR signaling plays a role in gonadotropin synthesis during the developmental stage to acquire sexual dimorphism after reaching adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukiko Hattori
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan; Research Fellow of Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoki Takeda
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Arisa Nakamura
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kyoko Nishida
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yuko Shioji
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Haruki Fukumitsu
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Yamada
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yuji Ishii
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.
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24
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Bourguignon JP, Juul A, Franssen D, Fudvoye J, Pinson A, Parent AS. Contribution of the Endocrine Perspective in the Evaluation of Endocrine Disrupting Chemical Effects: The Case Study of Pubertal Timing. Horm Res Paediatr 2018; 86:221-232. [PMID: 26799415 DOI: 10.1159/000442748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2015] [Accepted: 11/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Debate makes science progress. In the field of endocrine disruption, endocrinology has brought up findings that substantiate a specific perspective on the definition of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), the role of the endocrine system and the endpoints of hormone and EDC actions among other issues. This paper aims at discussing the relevance of the endocrine perspective with regard to EDC effects on pubertal timing. Puberty involves particular sensitivity to environmental conditions. Reports about the advancing onset of puberty in several countries have led to the hypothesis that the increasing burden of EDCs could be an explanation. In fact, pubertal timing currently shows complex changes since advancement of some manifestations of puberty (e.g. breast development) and no change or delay of others (e.g. menarche, pubic hair development) can be observed. In a human setting with exposure to low doses of tenths or hundreds of chemicals since prenatal life, causation is most difficult to demonstrate and justifies a translational approach using animal models. Studies in rodents indicate an exquisite sensitivity of neuroendocrine endpoints to EDCs. Altogether, the data from both human and animal studies support the importance of concepts derived from endocrinology in the evaluation of EDC effects on puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Pierre Bourguignon
- Developmental Neuroendocrinology Unit, GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, Sart-Tilman, Liège, Belgium
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25
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Takeda T. [Molecular Mechanism Whereby Maternal Exposure to Dioxin Suppresses Sexual Maturation of the Offspring after Growing Up]. YAKUGAKU ZASSHI 2018; 137:1373-1379. [PMID: 29093374 DOI: 10.1248/yakushi.17-00146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Dioxins, including 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), are responsible for producing serious toxic effects in the next generation, such as sexual immaturity. Our laboratory found that treating pregnant rats on gestational day 15 with TCDD (1 μg/kg orally) targets pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH) to attenuate testicular steroidogenesis in fetuses. Because sex steroids during a short window ("the critical period") in the perinatal stage stimulate brain differentiation closely linked to sexual maturation, it is likely that TCDD imprints sexual immaturity on the offspring due to the lowered expression of LH during the fetal period. To address this hypothesis, we first investigated the effect of supplementation of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG), an LH-mimicking hormone, in fetuses exposed to TCDD. The result showed that eCG ameliorated defects in sexual behavior in adulthood as well as in steroidogenesis during the fetal stage. We also found that maternal exposure to TCDD induced the pituitary expression of histone deacetylases (HDACs) in fetuses. In agreement with this, TCDD deacetylated the histones wrapped around the LHβ gene, and valproic acid, an HDAC inhibitor, blocked the reduced level of LHβ caused by TCDD. These observations strongly suggest that TCDD induces the expression of HDACs to attenuate fetal LH production. Finally, such a transient reduction in steroidogenesis of the pituitary-gonadal axis causes a decrease in the expression of hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone, resulting in defects in sexual behavior in adulthood. This review increases our understanding of the developmental toxicities caused by endocrine disruptors including dioxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoki Takeda
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University
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26
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Rogstad TW, Sonne C, Villanger GD, Ahlstøm Ø, Fuglei E, Muir DCG, Jørgensen E, Jenssen BM. Concentrations of vitamin A, E, thyroid and testosterone hormones in blood plasma and tissues from emaciated adult male Arctic foxes (Vulpes lagopus) dietary exposed to persistent organic pollutants (POPs). ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2017; 154:284-290. [PMID: 28119248 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2017.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Revised: 01/12/2017] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationships and effects of oral POP exposure on retinol (vitamin A), α-tocopherol (vitamin E), thyroid hormones and testosterone in emaciated adult farmed Arctic foxes. Eight brother-pairs were exposed to either a diet containing naturally POP-contaminated minke whale blubber (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) (n=8), or a control diet containing pig (Sus scrofa) fat as the primary fat source (n=8) for 22 months. In the whale blubber containing feed the ∑POPs concentration was 802ng/g w.w. and it was 24ng/g w.w. in control feed. The liver mass was significantly higher and the ratio of FT4 (free thyroxine):FT3 (free triiodothyronine) was significantly lower in the POP exposed group as compared to the control group given feed with pig fat (both p<0.05). The exposed group revealed lower plasma and liver concentrations of α-tocopherol compared to the control group (both p<0.05). These results indicate that plasma FT4:FT3 ratio and plasma and liver α-tocopherol are valuable biomarker endpoints for chronic oral POP exposure in wild Arctic foxes. Based on this we suggest that plasma FT4:FT3 ratio and plasma and liver α-tocopherol are valuable biomarker endpoints for chronic POP exposure in wildlife Arctic foxes and that these perturbations may affect their health status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tonje W Rogstad
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Christian Sonne
- Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Gro D Villanger
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway; Mental and Physical Health, Department of Child Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, P.O. Box 4404 Nydalen, 0473 Oslo, Norway
| | - Øystein Ahlstøm
- Department of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, N-1432 Ås, Norway
| | - Eva Fuglei
- Norwegian Polar Institute, FRAM Centre, NO-9296 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Derek C G Muir
- National Water Research Institute, Environment Canada, Burlington, Ontario, Canada L7R 4A6
| | - Even Jørgensen
- Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, N-9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Bjørn Munro Jenssen
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway
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27
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Weihe P, Debes F, Halling J, Petersen MS, Muckle G, Odland JØ, Dudarev A, Ayotte P, Dewailly É, Grandjean P, Bonefeld-Jørgensen E. Health effects associated with measured levels of contaminants in the Arctic. Int J Circumpolar Health 2016; 75:33805. [PMID: 27974137 PMCID: PMC5156856 DOI: 10.3402/ijch.v75.33805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The Human Health Assessment Group has over the past decade recommended that effect studies be conducted in the circumpolar area. Such studies examine the association between contaminant exposure in the Arctic populations and health effects. Because foetuses and young children are the most vulnerable, effect studies are often prospective child cohort studies. The emphasis in this article is on a description of the effects associated with contaminant exposure in the Arctic. The main topics addressed are neurobehavioural, immunological, reproductive, cardiovascular, endocrine and carcinogenic effect. For each topic, the association between exposure and effects is described, and some results are reported for similar studies outside the Arctic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pál Weihe
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Public Health, The Faroese Hospital System, Torshavn, Faroe Islands;
| | - Fróði Debes
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Public Health, The Faroese Hospital System, Torshavn, Faroe Islands
| | - Jónrit Halling
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Public Health, The Faroese Hospital System, Torshavn, Faroe Islands
| | - Maria Skaalum Petersen
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Public Health, The Faroese Hospital System, Torshavn, Faroe Islands
| | - Gina Muckle
- École de psychologie, Université Laval and Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Québec, City, QC, Canada
| | - Jon Øyvind Odland
- Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromso, Norway
| | - Alexey Dudarev
- Northwest Public Health Research Center, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | | | | | - Philippe Grandjean
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Univerisity of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Eva Bonefeld-Jørgensen
- Centre for Arctic Health, Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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28
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Eskenazi B, Rauch SA, Tenerelli R, Huen K, Holland NT, Lustig RH, Kogut K, Bradman A, Sjödin A, Harley KG. In utero and childhood DDT, DDE, PBDE and PCBs exposure and sex hormones in adolescent boys: The CHAMACOS study. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2016; 220:364-372. [PMID: 27876543 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2016.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2016] [Revised: 10/30/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) flame retardants, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are believed to be endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in humans and animals. The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship of in utero and childhood exposure to these purported EDCs and reproductive hormones in adolescent boys who participated in CHAMACOS, an ongoing birth cohort in California's Salinas Valley. We measured o,p'- and p,p'-DDT, p,p'-DDE, PBDEs and PCBs in serum collected from mothers during pregnancy or at delivery and from their sons at 9 years. We measured concentrations of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and total testosterone (T) from 234 of their sons at 12 years. In adjusted models, we found that a 10-fold increase in maternal prenatal serum concentrations of BDE-153 was associated with a 22.2% increase (95% CI: 1.0, 47.9) in FSH, a 96.6% increase (95% CI: 35.7, 184.7) in LH, and a 92.4% increase (95% CI: 20.9, 206.2) increase in T. Similarly, BDE-100 concentrations were associated with increases in boys' LH levels. A 10-fold increase in total prenatal ΣPCBs was associated with a 64.5% increase (95% CI: 8.6, 149.0) in FSH, primarily driven by non- dioxin-like congeners. Boys' hormone levels were only marginally associated with prenatal DDT or DDE in primary models, but when boys' Tanner stage at age 12 was added to models, prenatal maternal DDT levels were associated with decreases in LH (adjusted percent change per 10-fold increase=-18.5%, 95% CI: -29.8, -5.4) and T (percent change=-18.2%, 95% CI: -30.2, -4.2) and DDE with LH (percent change=-18.3%, 95% CI: -32.9, -0.6). Exposures measured in the children's serum at 9 years also showed associations between BDE-153 and ΣPCBs. However, there is evidence that these associations appear to be mediated by child BMI. This study suggests associations on male hormones of 12year old boys related to exposure to certain EDC exposure prenatally. The implications on future reproductive function in puberty and adulthood should be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Eskenazi
- Center for Environmental Research and Children's Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA.
| | - Stephen A Rauch
- Center for Environmental Research and Children's Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Rachel Tenerelli
- Center for Environmental Research and Children's Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Karen Huen
- Center for Environmental Research and Children's Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Nina T Holland
- Center for Environmental Research and Children's Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Robert H Lustig
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Katherine Kogut
- Center for Environmental Research and Children's Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Asa Bradman
- Center for Environmental Research and Children's Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Andreas Sjödin
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kim G Harley
- Center for Environmental Research and Children's Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
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29
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Burns JS, Lee MM, Williams PL, Korrick SA, Sergeyev O, Lam T, Revich B, Hauser R. Associations of Peripubertal Serum Dioxin and Polychlorinated Biphenyl Concentrations with Pubertal Timing among Russian Boys. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2016; 124:1801-1807. [PMID: 27187981 PMCID: PMC5089876 DOI: 10.1289/ehp154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2015] [Revised: 02/04/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dioxins, furans, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxin-like and non-dioxin-like, have been linked to alterations in puberty. OBJECTIVES We examined the association of peripubertal serum levels of these compounds [and their toxic equivalents (TEQs)] with pubertal onset and maturity among Russian boys enrolled at ages 8-9 years and followed prospectively through ages 17-18 years. METHODS At enrollment, 473 boys had serum dioxin-like compounds and PCBs measured. At the baseline visit and annually until age 17-18 years, a physician performed pubertal staging [genitalia (G), pubarche (P), and testicular volume (TV)]. Three hundred fifteen subjects completed the follow-up visit at 17-18 years of age. Pubertal onset was defined as TV > 3 mL, G2, or P2. Sexual maturity was defined as TV ≥ 20 mL, G5, or P5. Multivariable interval-censored models were used to evaluate associations of lipid-standardized concentrations with pubertal timing. RESULTS Medians (interquartile ranges) of the sum of dioxin-like compounds, TEQs, and non-dioxin-like PCBs were 362 pg/g lipid (279-495), 21.1 pg TEQ/g lipid (14.4-33.2), and 250 ng/g lipid (164-395), respectively. In adjusted models, the highest compared to lowest TEQ quartile was associated with later pubertal onset [TV = 11.6 months (95% CI: 3.8, 19.4); G2 = 10.1 months (95% CI: 1.4, 18.8)] and sexual maturity [TV = 11.6 months (95% CI: 5.7, 17.6); G5 = 9.7 months (95% CI: 3.1, 16.2)]. However, the highest compared to the lowest quartile of non-dioxin-like PCBs, when co-adjusted by TEQs, was associated with earlier pubertal onset [TV = -8.3 months (95% CI:-16.2, -0.3)] and sexual maturity [TV = -6.3 months (95% CI:-12.2, -0.3); G5 = -7.2 months (95% CI:-13.8, -0.6)]; the non-dioxin-like PCB associations were only significant when adjusted for TEQs. TEQs and PCBs were not significantly associated with pubic hair development. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that TEQs may delay, while non-dioxin-like PCBs advance, the timing of male puberty. Citation: Burns JS, Lee MM, Williams PL, Korrick SA, Sergeyev O, Lam T, Revich B, Hauser R. 2016. Associations of peripubertal serum dioxin and polychlorinated biphenyl concentrations with pubertal timing among Russian boys. Environ Health Perspect 124:1801-1807; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/EHP154.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane S. Burns
- Environmental and Occupational Medicine and Epidemiology Program, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Address correspondence to J.S. Burns, Environmental and Occupational Medicine and Epidemiology Program, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 665 Huntington Ave., Building 1, Room 1404E, Boston, MA 02115 USA. Telephone: (617) 432-1829. E-mail:
| | - Mary M. Lee
- Pediatric Endocrine Division, Department of Pediatrics, and
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Paige L. Williams
- Department of Biostatistics, and
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Susan A. Korrick
- Environmental and Occupational Medicine and Epidemiology Program, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Oleg Sergeyev
- Department of Genomics and Human Genetics, Vavilov Institute of General Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
- Chapaevsk Medical Association, Chapaevsk, Samara Region, Russia
| | - Thuy Lam
- Environmental and Occupational Medicine and Epidemiology Program, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Gradient, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Boris Revich
- Institute for Forecasting, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Russ Hauser
- Environmental and Occupational Medicine and Epidemiology Program, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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30
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Vitku J, Heracek J, Sosvorova L, Hampl R, Chlupacova T, Hill M, Sobotka V, Bicikova M, Starka L. Associations of bisphenol A and polychlorinated biphenyls with spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis in two biological fluids from men attending an infertility clinic. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2016; 89-90:166-173. [PMID: 26863184 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2016.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2015] [Revised: 01/06/2016] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the testis, steroid hormones play an important role in spermatogenesis, the production of semen, and the maintenance of secondary sex characteristics and libido. They may also play a role as a target for substances called endocrine disruptors (EDs). As yet, however, no complex study has been conducted evaluating the relationships between EDs and the steroid spectrum in the plasma and seminal plasma. OBJECTIVES To shed more light into mechanisms of EDs and the effects of bisphenol A (BPA) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) on human spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis. METHODS We determined BPA and 11 steroids in the plasma and seminal plasma of 191 men with different degrees of fertility, using a newly developed liquid-chromatography mass spectrometry method. Concurrently, plasma levels of 6 congeners of PCBs, gonadotropins, selenium, zinc and homocysteine were measured. Partial correlations adjusted for age, BMI and abstinence time were performed to evaluate relationships between these analytes. RESULTS Seminal BPA, but not plasma BPA, was negatively associated with sperm concentration (r=-0.198; p=0.009), sperm count (r=-0.178; p=0.018) and morphology (r=-0.160; p=0.044). Divergent and sometimes opposing associations of steroids and BPA were found in both body fluids. The sum of PCB congeners was negatively associated with testosterone, free testosterone, the free androgen index and dihydrotestosterone in plasma. CONCLUSION BPA may negatively contribute to the final state of sperm quality. Moreover, our data indicate that BPA influences human gonadal and adrenal steroidogenesis at various steps. Environmental levels of PCBs negatively correlated with androgen levels, but surprisingly without negative effects on sperm quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Vitku
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Jiri Heracek
- Department of Urology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic; Department of Urology, Military University Hospital Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lucie Sosvorova
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Richard Hampl
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tereza Chlupacova
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Hill
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Vladimir Sobotka
- Department of Urology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Marie Bicikova
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Luboslav Starka
- Department of Steroids and Proteofactors, Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic
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31
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Wang C, Yang L, Wang S, Zhang Z, Yu Y, Wang M, Cromie M, Gao W, Wang SL. The classic EDCs, phthalate esters and organochlorines, in relation to abnormal sperm quality: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2016; 6:19982. [PMID: 26804707 PMCID: PMC4726156 DOI: 10.1038/srep19982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Accepted: 12/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The association between endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and human sperm quality is controversial due to the inconsistent literature findings, therefore, a systematic review with meta-analysis was performed. Through the literature search and selection based on inclusion criteria, a total of 9 studies (7 cross-sectional, 1 case-control, and 1 pilot study) were analyzed for classic EDCs (5 studies for phthalate esters and 4 studies for organochlorines). Funnel plots revealed a symmetrical distribution with no evidence of publication bias (Begg’s test: intercept = 0.40; p = 0.692). The summary odds ratios (OR) of human sperm quality associated with the classic EDCs was 1.67 (95% CI: 1.31–2.02). After stratification by specific chemical class, consistent increases in the risk of abnormal sperm quality were found in phthalate ester group (OR = 1.52; 95% CI: 1.09–1.95) and organochlorine group (OR = 1.98; 95% CI: 1.34–2.62). Additionally, identification of official data, and a comprehensive review of the mechanisms were performed, and better elucidated the increased risk of these classic EDCs on abnormal sperm quality. The present systematic review and meta-analysis helps to identify the impact of classic EDCs on human sperm quality. However, it still highlights the need for additional epidemiological studies in a larger variety of geographic locations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wang
- State Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, 140 Hanzhong Rd., Nanjing 210029, P. R. China.,Key Lab of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211166, P.R.China
| | - Lu Yang
- State Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, 140 Hanzhong Rd., Nanjing 210029, P. R. China.,Key Lab of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211166, P.R.China
| | - Shu Wang
- Kangda Medical College, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211166, P.R. China
| | - Zhan Zhang
- State Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, 140 Hanzhong Rd., Nanjing 210029, P. R. China.,Key Lab of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211166, P.R.China
| | - Yongquan Yu
- State Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, 140 Hanzhong Rd., Nanjing 210029, P. R. China.,Key Lab of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211166, P.R.China
| | - Meilin Wang
- State Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, 140 Hanzhong Rd., Nanjing 210029, P. R. China.,Key Lab of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211166, P.R.China
| | - Meghan Cromie
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, The Institute of Environmental and Human Health, Texas Tech University, 1207 Gilbert Drive, Lubbock, TX 79416, USA
| | - Weimin Gao
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, The Institute of Environmental and Human Health, Texas Tech University, 1207 Gilbert Drive, Lubbock, TX 79416, USA
| | - Shou-Lin Wang
- State Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, 140 Hanzhong Rd., Nanjing 210029, P. R. China.,Key Lab of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing 211166, P.R.China
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Sweeney MF, Hasan N, Soto AM, Sonnenschein C. Environmental endocrine disruptors: Effects on the human male reproductive system. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2015; 16:341-57. [PMID: 26847433 PMCID: PMC4803593 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-016-9337-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Incidences of altered development and neoplasia of male reproductive organs have increased during the last 50 years, as shown by epidemiological data. These data are associated with the increased presence of environmental chemicals, specifically "endocrine disruptors," that interfere with normal hormonal action. Much research has gone into testing the effects of specific endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) on the development of male reproductive organs and endocrine-related cancers in both in vitro and in vivo models. Efforts have been made to bridge the accruing laboratory findings with the epidemiological data to draw conclusions regarding the relationship between EDCs, altered development and carcinogenesis. The ability of EDCs to predispose target fetal and adult tissues to neoplastic transformation is best explained under the framework of the tissue organization field theory of carcinogenesis (TOFT), which posits that carcinogenesis is development gone awry. Here, we focus on the available evidence, from both empirical and epidemiological studies, regarding the effects of EDCs on male reproductive development and carcinogenesis of endocrine target tissues. We also critique current research methodology utilized in the investigation of EDCs effects and outline what could possibly be done to address these obstacles moving forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- M F Sweeney
- Program in Genetics, Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - N Hasan
- Program in Cell, Molecular & Developmental Biology, Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - A M Soto
- Program in Genetics, Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
- Program in Cell, Molecular & Developmental Biology, Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
- Department of Integrative Physiology & Pathobiology, Tufts University, 136 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - C Sonnenschein
- Program in Genetics, Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA, 02111, USA.
- Program in Cell, Molecular & Developmental Biology, Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA, 02111, USA.
- Department of Integrative Physiology & Pathobiology, Tufts University, 136 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA, 02111, USA.
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Warembourg C, Debost-Legrand A, Bonvallot N, Massart C, Garlantézec R, Monfort C, Gaudreau E, Chevrier C, Cordier S. Exposure of pregnant women to persistent organic pollutants and cord sex hormone levels. Hum Reprod 2015; 31:190-8. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2015] [Accepted: 09/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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Parent AS, Franssen D, Fudvoye J, Gérard A, Bourguignon JP. Developmental variations in environmental influences including endocrine disruptors on pubertal timing and neuroendocrine control: Revision of human observations and mechanistic insight from rodents. Front Neuroendocrinol 2015; 38:12-36. [PMID: 25592640 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2014.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2014] [Revised: 12/13/2014] [Accepted: 12/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Puberty presents remarkable individual differences in timing reaching over 5 years in humans. We put emphasis on the two edges of the age distribution of pubertal signs in humans and point to an extended distribution towards earliness for initial pubertal stages and towards lateness for final pubertal stages. Such distortion of distribution is a recent phenomenon. This suggests changing environmental influences including the possible role of nutrition, stress and endocrine disruptors. Our ability to assess neuroendocrine effects and mechanisms is very limited in humans. Using the rodent as a model, we examine the impact of environmental factors on the individual variations in pubertal timing and the possible underlying mechanisms. The capacity of environmental factors to shape functioning of the neuroendocrine system is thought to be maximal during fetal and early postnatal life and possibly less important when approaching the time of onset of puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Simone Parent
- Developmental Neuroendocrinology Unit, GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, Sart-Tilman, B-4000 Liège, Belgium; Department of Pediatrics, CHU de Liège, Rue de Gaillarmont 600, B-4032 Chênée, Belgium
| | - Delphine Franssen
- Developmental Neuroendocrinology Unit, GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, Sart-Tilman, B-4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Julie Fudvoye
- Developmental Neuroendocrinology Unit, GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, Sart-Tilman, B-4000 Liège, Belgium; Department of Pediatrics, CHU de Liège, Rue de Gaillarmont 600, B-4032 Chênée, Belgium
| | - Arlette Gérard
- Developmental Neuroendocrinology Unit, GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, Sart-Tilman, B-4000 Liège, Belgium; Department of Pediatrics, CHU de Liège, Rue de Gaillarmont 600, B-4032 Chênée, Belgium
| | - Jean-Pierre Bourguignon
- Developmental Neuroendocrinology Unit, GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, Sart-Tilman, B-4000 Liège, Belgium; Department of Pediatrics, CHU de Liège, Rue de Gaillarmont 600, B-4032 Chênée, Belgium.
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Xie C, Zhao Y, Gao L, Chen J, Cai D, Zhang Y. Elevated phthalates' exposure in children with constitutional delay of growth and puberty. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 407:67-73. [PMID: 25770461 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2014] [Revised: 02/12/2015] [Accepted: 03/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phthalates have been proven to be antiandrogenic, which may interfere with the timing of puberty. Children with Constitutional Delay of Growth and Puberty (CDGP) typically display short stature and pubertal delay. This study investigated whether phthalate's exposure was associated with CDGP, and evaluated the potential mediator role of testosterone. METHODS In this case-control study, a total of 167 boys, including 57 boys with CDGP (cases) and 110 controls were enrolled. We measured six major phthalate metabolites in urine samples using high-performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The serum testosterone level was determined by radioimmunoassay. RESULTS Children in the CDGP group were determined to have significantly elevated urinary phthalates concentration compared with control subjects (total phthalates median: case, 107.00 ng/ml; control, 62.22 ng/ml, p = 0.001). After adjustment for BMI and other confounding factors: mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP), monoethyl phthalate (MEP) and total phthalate concentrations were significantly negatively associated with serum testosterone level (MBP: β = -45.7, p = 0.017; MEP: β = -31.6, p = 0.022; total phthalates: β = -24.6, p = 0.011); MBP, MEP, mono (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) and total phthalates were significantly associated with CDGP (odds ratio: MBP: 8.30, p = 0.002; MEP: 5.43, p = 0.002; MEHP: 3.83, p = 0.017; total phthalates: 9.09, p = 0.001). Serum testosterone level acted as a mediator of the association between phthalates' exposure and CDGP (p = 0.002) (proportion mediated: 34.4%). CONCLUSIONS In this case-control study, elevated phthalates' level was detected in children with CDGP in Shanghai, China and phthalate level was associated with CDGP, which appeared to be mediated by circulating testosterone level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changming Xie
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lianlian Gao
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Depei Cai
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunhui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Petersen MS, Halling J, Weihe P, Jensen TK, Grandjean P, Nielsen F, Jørgensen N. Spermatogenic capacity in fertile men with elevated exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2015; 138:345-51. [PMID: 25766940 PMCID: PMC4394374 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2015.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2015] [Revised: 02/21/2015] [Accepted: 02/25/2015] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endocrine disrupting industrial chemicals, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), are suspected to adversely affect male reproductive functions. OBJECTIVES The Faroe Islands community exhibits an unusually wide range of exposures to dietary contaminants, and in this setting we examined the possible association between PCB exposure and semen quality and reproductive hormones in fertile Faroese men. METHODS Participants in this cross-sectional study include 266 proven fertile men residing in the Faroe Islands. PCB levels and hormone profiles were measured in serum samples taken at the clinical examination that included semen quality parameters. RESULTS A significant positive association was seen between serum-PCB and the testosterone/estradiol ratio (p=0.04). In the unadjusted analyses, elevated PCB exposure was associated with increased serum concentrations of SHBG (p=0.01) and FSH (p=0.05). We found no association between the serum PCB concentration and the semen quality variables. CONCLUSION In this population of highly exposed fertile men, the current serum-PCB concentration was associated with higher androgen/estrogen ratio. Further studies are needed to establish the findings and further document PCB-associated hormonal effects, any time windows of increased susceptibility, and the role of PCB in sub-fecundity.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S Petersen
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Public Health, The Faroese Hospital System, Tórshavn, Faroe Islands.
| | - J Halling
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Public Health, The Faroese Hospital System, Tórshavn, Faroe Islands
| | - P Weihe
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Public Health, The Faroese Hospital System, Tórshavn, Faroe Islands
| | - T K Jensen
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Rigshospitalet, University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - P Grandjean
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - F Nielsen
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - N Jørgensen
- Rigshospitalet, University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Endocrine-disrupting actions of PCBs on brain development and social and reproductive behaviors. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2014; 19:134-44. [PMID: 25310366 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2014.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2014] [Revised: 09/24/2014] [Accepted: 09/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls are among the most well-studied endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) for their neurobehavioral effects, especially neurodevelopment and cognitive performance. In addition, past research has demonstrated effects of PCBs on circulating hormones and associated changes in reproductive behaviors. This article will focus on recent advances that have been made in characterizing developmental PCB effects on reproductive function, broader social and affective behaviors, and the neuroendocrine mechanisms behind such changes. In general, PCBs seem to inhibit reproductive function by suppressing multiple aspects of the associated hypothalamic circuitry. Additionally, PCBs may also reduce motivation for social behaviors and induce depressive-like symptoms via overall reductions in dopaminergic and glutamatergic functions in the limbic system. However, more work with human-relevant exposure paradigms is needed to fully support these conclusions.
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Croes K, Den Hond E, Bruckers L, Loots I, Morrens B, Nelen V, Colles A, Schoeters G, Sioen I, Covaci A, Vandermarken T, Van Larebeke N, Baeyens W. Monitoring chlorinated persistent organic pollutants in adolescents in Flanders (Belgium): concentrations, trends and dose-effect relationships (FLEHS II). ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2014; 71:20-28. [PMID: 24950161 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2014.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Revised: 05/27/2014] [Accepted: 05/27/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2007, the second cycle of the Flemish human biomonitoring survey started, with a main focus on 14-15 year-old adolescents. OBJECTIVES The main objectives were generating reference values for exposure markers, determining the pollution pressure in industrial hotspots and establishing dose-effect relationships between exposure to pollutants and hormone levels, sexual development, asthma and allergy, genotoxic and hematological markers. METHODS Geometric means with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for a reference population of 200 14-15 year-old adolescents. Stepwise multiple regression analyses with correction for confounders and covariates were performed to establish dose-effect relationships. RESULTS Geometric mean concentrations (with 95% CI) of 49.6 (45.7, 53.8), 70.8 (63.6, 78.8) and 8.34 (7.76, 8.97) n gg(-1) lipid for the sum of PCB 138, 153 and 180, p,p'-DDE and HCB were respectively 23%, 26% and 60% lower than those obtained five years earlier. Geometric mean concentrations of 108 (101, 114) and 32.1 (30.1, 34.2) pgCALUX-BEQg(-1) lipid were observed for the PCDD/Fs and dioxin-like PCBs, respectively. Multiple dose-effect relationships were observed between POPs and several effect markers, including positive (boys) and negative (girls) associations with data on sexual development and positive associations with asthma, animal allergy and free thyroxine (boys and girls). CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that chlorinated POP concentrations are decreasing over time and that even relatively low concentrations are associated with biological effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Croes
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Geo-Chemistry (AMGC), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
| | | | - Liesbeth Bruckers
- Interuniversity Institute for Biostatistics and Statistical Bioinformatics, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Ilse Loots
- Political and Social Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Bert Morrens
- Political and Social Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Vera Nelen
- Provincial Institute for Hygiene, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Ann Colles
- Environmental Health and Risk, VITO, Mol, Belgium
| | | | - Isabelle Sioen
- Department of Public Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Adrian Covaci
- Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Tara Vandermarken
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Geo-Chemistry (AMGC), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Van Larebeke
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Geo-Chemistry (AMGC), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Willy Baeyens
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Geo-Chemistry (AMGC), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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Vested A, Giwercman A, Bonde JP, Toft G. Persistent organic pollutants and male reproductive health. Asian J Androl 2014; 16:71-80. [PMID: 24369135 PMCID: PMC3901884 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.122345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Environmental contaminants such as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are man-made bioaccumulative compounds with long half-lives that are found throughout the world as a result of heavy use in a variety of consumer products during the twentieth century. Wildlife and animal studies have long suggested adverse effects of exposure to these compounds on human reproductive health, which, according to the endocrine disrupter hypothesis, are ascribed to the compounds’ potential to interfere with endocrine signaling, especially when exposure occurs during certain phases of fetal and childhood development. An extensive number of epidemiological studies have addressed the possible effects of exposure to POPs on male reproductive health, but the results are conflicting. Thus far, most studies have focused on investigating exposure and the different reproductive health outcomes during adulthood. Some studies have addressed the potential harmful effects of fetal exposure with respect to malformations at birth and/or reproductive development, whereas only a few studies have been able to evaluate whether intrauterine exposure to POPs has long-term consequences for male reproductive health with measurable effects on semen quality markers and reproductive hormone levels in adulthood. Humans are not exposed to a single compound at a time, but rather, to a variety of different substances with potential divergent hormonal effects. Hence, how to best analyze epidemiological data on combined exposures remains a significant challenge. This review on POPs will focus on current knowledge regarding the potential effects of exposure to POPs during fetal and childhood life and during adulthood on male reproductive health, including a critical revision of the endocrine disruption hypothesis, a comment on pubertal development as part of reproductive development and a comment on how to account for combined exposures in epidemiological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Vested
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Zhang Q, Lu M, Wang C, Du J, Zhou P, Zhao M. Characterization of estrogen receptor α activities in polychlorinated biphenyls by in vitro dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2014; 189:169-175. [PMID: 24675366 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2014.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2013] [Revised: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 03/02/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are thought to cause adverse health effects, particularly endocrine disruption. However, results on the estrogenic activities of a large set of PCB congeners through hormone receptors have not been fully studied. In this study, we evaluated the anti/estrogenic effects of 20 PCBs using an in vitro dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. PCB 18, 28, 49, 52, 99, 101, 103, 110, and 128 exhibited estrogenic effects, whereas PCB 118, 138, 163, 170, 180, 187, 194, 199 and 203 behaved as anti-estrogens. In particular, PCB 30 and 44 exhibited both agonistic and antagonistic activities in the dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. The results obtained from the dual-luciferase reporter gene assay, yeast two-hybrid assay and E-SCREEN were compared, suggesting that the dual-luciferase reporter gene assay is a useful approach for high-throughput screening. We also predicted the possible relationship between the chemical structures and the estrogenic effects of PCBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Zhang
- College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China
| | - Meiya Lu
- College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China
| | - Cui Wang
- College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China
| | - Jie Du
- College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China
| | - Peixue Zhou
- College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China
| | - Meirong Zhao
- College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China.
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Dioxin-induced retardation of development through a reduction in the expression of pituitary hormones and possible involvement of an aryl hydrocarbon receptor in this defect: a comparative study using two strains of mice with different sensitivities to dioxin. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2014; 278:220-9. [PMID: 24793433 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2014.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2014] [Revised: 04/19/2014] [Accepted: 04/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
We have previously revealed that treating pregnant rats with 2,3,7,8-tetracholorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) reduces the expression of gonadotropins and growth hormone (GH) in the fetal and neonatal pituitary. A change in gonadotropin expression impairs the testicular expression of steroidogenic proteins in perinatal pups, and imprint defects in sexual behavior after reaching maturity. In this study, we examined whether TCDD also affects the expression of gonadotropin and GH in mice using C57BL/6J and DBA/2J strains which express the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (Ahr) exhibiting a different affinity for TCDD. When pregnant C57BL/6J mice at gestational day (GD) 12 were given oral TCDD (0.2-20 μg/kg), all doses significantly attenuated the pituitary expression of gonadotropin mRNAs in fetuses at GD18. On the other hand, in DBA/2J mice, a much higher dose of TCDD (20 μg/kg) was needed to produce a significant attenuation. Such reduction in the C57BL/6J strain continued until at least postnatal day (PND) 4. In agreement with this, TCDD reduced the testicular expression of steroidogenic proteins in C57BL/6J neonates at PND2 and 4, although the same did not occur in the fetal testis and ovary. Furthermore, TCDD reduced the perinatal expression of GH, litter size and the body weight of newborn pups only in the C57BL/6J strain. These results suggest that 1) also in mice, maternal exposure to TCDD attenuates gonadotropin-regulated steroidogenesis and GH expression leading to the impairment of pup development and sexual immaturity; and 2) Ahr activation during the late fetal and early postnatal stages is required for these defects.
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Environmental pollutants and dysregulation of male puberty—A comparison among species. Reprod Toxicol 2014; 44:23-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2013.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2012] [Revised: 07/29/2013] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Yoon K, Kwack SJ, Kim HS, Lee BM. Estrogenic endocrine-disrupting chemicals: molecular mechanisms of actions on putative human diseases. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2014; 17:127-74. [PMID: 24749480 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2014.882194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDC), including phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA), phytoestrogens such as genistein and daidzein, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), and 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), are associated with a variety of adverse health effects in organisms or progeny by altering the endocrine system. Environmental estrogens, including BPA, phthalates, and phytoestrogens, are the most extensively studied and are considered to mimic the actions of endogenous estrogen, 17β-estradiol (E2). Diverse modes of action of estrogen and estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ) have been described, but the mode of action of estrogenic EDC is postulated to be more complex and needs to be more clearly elucidated. This review examines the adverse effects of estrogenic EDC on male or female reproductive systems and molecular mechanisms underlying EDC effects that modulate ER-mediated signaling. Mechanisms of action for estrogenic EDC may involve both ER-dependent and ER-independent pathways. Recent findings from systems toxicology of examining estrogenic EDC are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyungsil Yoon
- a Lung Cancer Branch , Research Institute, National Cancer Center , Goyang , Gyeonggi-do , South Korea
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Halling J, Petersen MS, Jørgensen N, Jensen TK, Grandjean P, Weihe P. Semen quality and reproductive hormones in Faroese men: a cross-sectional population-based study of 481 men. BMJ Open 2013; 3:bmjopen-2012-001946. [PMID: 23457323 PMCID: PMC3612804 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2012-001946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine semen quality and reproductive hormone levels in young Faroese men. DESIGN Descriptive cross-sectional study of Faroese men compared with Danish men. SETTING Faroese one-centre study. PARTICIPANTS 481 men born from 1981 to 1987 and investigated from 2007 to 2010. OUTCOME MEASURES Sperm concentration, semen volume, total sperm count, sperm motility, sperm morphology and reproductive hormone levels. RESULTS Sperm concentrations for the Faroese men were lower than for the Danish men (crude median 40 vs 48 mill/ml, p<0.0005). Semen volume was higher, and thus the total sperm counts did not differ (159 vs 151 mill, p=0.2). Motility and morphology did not differ between the Faroese and Danes. The inhibin B/follicle-stimulating hormone ratios for the Faroese men were lower than for the Danes (64 vs 76, p=0.001). Similarly, lower total testosterone/luteinising hormone (LH) ratio (4.6 vs 6.0, p<0.0005) and lower calculated free-testosterone/LH ratio (94 vs 134, p<0.0005) were detected for the Faroese men. CONCLUSIONS Semen quality among the Faroese men is at the same low level as reported for Danish men, and the reproductive hormone levels furthermore indicated a lower Leydig cell capacity for testosterone production. The influence of environmental exposure and genetic factors on semen quality has to be studied further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jónrit Halling
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Public Health, The Faroese Hospital System, Torshavn, Faroe Islands
| | - Maria Skaalum Petersen
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Public Health, The Faroese Hospital System, Torshavn, Faroe Islands
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tina Kold Jensen
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Institute of Public Health, Odense, Denmark
| | - Philippe Grandjean
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Institute of Public Health, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Pál Weihe
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Public Health, The Faroese Hospital System, Torshavn, Faroe Islands
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Abstract
Endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) are synthetic or natural compounds that interfere with endogenous endocrine action. The frequent use of chemicals with endocrine active properties in household products and contamination of soil, water, and food sources by persistent chemical pollutants result in ubiquitous exposures. Wildlife observations and animal toxicological studies reveal adverse effects of EDCs on reproductive health. In humans, a growing number of epidemiological studies report an association with altered pubertal timing and progression. While these data are primarily reported in females, this review will focus on the small number of studies performed in males that report an association of polychlorinated biphenyls with earlier sexual maturity rating and confirm subtle effects of lead, dioxins, and endosulfan on delaying pubertal onset and progression in boys. Recent studies have also demonstrated that EDC exposure may affect pubertal testosterone production without having a noticeable effect on sexual maturity rating. A limitation to understand the effects of EDCs in humans is the potential for confounding due to the long temporal lag from early-life exposures to adult outcomes. The complex interplay of multiple environmental exposures over time also complicates the interpretation of human studies. These studies have identified critical windows of vulnerability during development when exposures to EDCs alter critical pathways and affect postnatal reproductive health. Contemporaneous exposures can also disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. This paper will review the normal process of puberty in males and summarize human data that suggest potential perturbations in pubertal onset and tempo with early-life exposures to EDCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Zawatski
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, Massachusetts 01655, USA
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