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Li F, Yang R, Lu L, Hua W, Sun Y, Tian M, Lu Y, Huang Q. Comparative steroidogenic effects of hexafluoropropylene oxide trimer acid (HFPO-TA) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA): Regulation of histone modifications. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 350:124030. [PMID: 38663511 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/30/2024]
Abstract
As a widely used alternative to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), hexafluoropropylene oxide trimer acid (HFPO-TA) has been detected in the environment and humans; however, little is known regarding its male reproductive toxicity. To compare the effects of HFPO-TA on steroid hormone synthesis with PFOA, we exposed Leydig cells (MLTC-1) to non-lethal doses (0.1, 1, and 10 μM) of PFOA and HFPO-TA for 48 h. It was found that the levels of steroid hormones, 17α-hydroxyprogesterone (OHP), androstenedione (ASD), and testosterone (T) were significantly increased in 1 and 10 μM of PFOA and HFPO-TA groups, with greater elevation being observed in the HFPO-TA groups than in the PFOA groups at 10 μM. We further showed that the two rate-limiting steroidogenic genes (Star and Cyp11a1) were up-regulated, while Hsd3b, Cyp17a1, and Hsd17b were down-regulated or unchanged after PFOA/HFPO-TA exposure. Moreover, PFOA exposure significantly up-regulated histone H3K4me1/3 and H3K9me1, while down-regulated H3K4me2 and H3K9me2/3 levels. By contrast, H3K4me2/3 and H3K9me2/3 were enhanced, while H3K4me1 and H3K9me1 were repressed after HFPO-TA treatment. It was further confirmed that H3K4me1/3 were increased and H3K9me2 was decreased in Star and Cyp11a1 promoters by PFOA, while HFPO-TA increased H3K4me2/3 and decreased H3K9me1 in the two gene promoters. Therefore, we propose that low levels of PFOA/HFPO-TA enhance the expression of Star and Cyp11a1 by regulating H3K4 and H3K9 methylation, thus stimulating the production of steroid hormones in MLTC-1 cells. Collectively, HFPO-TA exhibits stronger effects on steroidogenesis compared to PFOA, which may be ascribed to the distinct regulation of histone modifications. These data suggest that HFPO-TA does not appear to be a safer alternative to PFOA on the aspect of male reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuping Li
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Rui Yang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Defect, Fuzhou, China
| | - Lu Lu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Weizhen Hua
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Yan Sun
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Defect, Fuzhou, China
| | - Meiping Tian
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Yanyang Lu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Qingyu Huang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China.
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Lockington C, Favetta LA. How Per- and Poly-Fluoroalkyl Substances Affect Gamete Viability and Fertilization Capability: Insights from the Literature. J Xenobiot 2024; 14:651-678. [PMID: 38804291 PMCID: PMC11130945 DOI: 10.3390/jox14020038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
There has been emerging research linking per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to gamete viability and fertility. PFAS, prevalent in the environment and water supplies, undergo slow degradation due to their C-F bond and a long half-life (2.3-8.5 years). In females, PFAS inhibit the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, reducing follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, leading to the inhibition of androgen and estradiol production. PFAS have been found to cause detrimental effects on egg quality through impairing folliculogenesis. In males, PFAS can impair sperm motility and morphology: two fundamental qualities of successful fertilization. PFAS exposure has been proven to inhibit testosterone production, sperm capacitation, and acrosomal reaction. After fertilization, the results of PFAS exposure to embryos have also been investigated, showing reduced development to the blastocyst stage. The aim of this review is to report the main findings in the literature on the impact of PFAS exposure to gamete competency and fertilization capability by highlighting key studies on both male and female fertility. We report that there is significant evidence demonstrating the negative impacts on fertility after PFAS exposure. At high doses, these environmentally abundant and widespread compounds can significantly affect human fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura A. Favetta
- Reproductive Health and Biotechnology Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
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Gasparini C, Iori S, Pietropoli E, Bonato M, Giantin M, Barbarossa A, Bardhi A, Pilastro A, Dacasto M, Pauletto M. Sub-acute exposure of male guppies (Poecilia reticulata) to environmentally relevant concentrations of PFOA and GenX induces significant changes in the testis transcriptome and reproductive traits. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 187:108703. [PMID: 38705092 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are frequently detected in the environment and are linked to adverse reproductive health outcomes in humans. Although legacy PFAS have been phased out due to their toxicity, alternative PFAS are increasingly used despite the fact that information on their toxic effects on reproductive traits is particularly scarce. Here, we exposed male guppies (Poecilia reticulata) for a short period (21 days) to an environmentally realistic concentration (1 ppb) of PFOA, a legacy PFAS, and its replacement compound, GenX, to assess their impact on reproductive traits and gene expression. Exposure to PFAS did not impair survival but instead caused sublethal effects. Overall, PFAS exposure caused changes in male sexual behaviour and had detrimental effects on sperm motility. Sublethal variations were also seen at the transcriptional level, with the modulation of genes involved in immune regulation, spermatogenesis, and oxidative stress. We also observed bioaccumulation of PFAS, which was higher for PFOA than for GenX. Our results offer a comprehensive comparison of these two PFAS and shed light on the toxicity of a newly emerging alternative to legacy PFAS. It is therefore evident that even at low concentrations and with short exposure, PFAS can have subtle yet significant effects on behaviour, fertility, and immunity. These findings underscore the potential ramifications of pollution under natural conditions and their impact on fish populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Gasparini
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, I-35131, Padova, Italy; National Biodiversity Future Center, Piazza Marina 61, I-90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - S Iori
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Agripolis Legnaro (Padova), Italy
| | - E Pietropoli
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Agripolis Legnaro (Padova), Italy
| | - M Bonato
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, I-35131, Padova, Italy
| | - M Giantin
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Agripolis Legnaro (Padova), Italy
| | - A Barbarossa
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, via Tolara di Sopra 50, I-40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia (Bologna), Italy; Health Sciences and Technologies-Interdepartmental Centre for Industrial Research (CIRI-SDV), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, I-40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia (Bologna), Italy
| | - A Bardhi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, via Tolara di Sopra 50, I-40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia (Bologna), Italy
| | - A Pilastro
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, I-35131, Padova, Italy; National Biodiversity Future Center, Piazza Marina 61, I-90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - M Dacasto
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Agripolis Legnaro (Padova), Italy
| | - M Pauletto
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Agripolis Legnaro (Padova), Italy.
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Ou J, Song Y, Zhong X, Dai L, Chen J, Zhang W, Yang C, Wang J, Zhang W. Perfluorooctanoic acid induces Leydig cell injury via inhibition of autophagosomes formation and activation of endoplasmic reticulum stress. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 917:169861. [PMID: 38185161 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a man-made chemical broadly distributed in various ecological environment and human bodies, which poses potential health risks. Its toxicity, especially the male reproduction toxicity has drawn increasing attention due to declining birth rates in recent years. However, how PFOA induces male reproductive toxicity remains unclear. Here, we characterize PFOA-induced cell injury and reveal the underlying mechanism in mouse Leydig cells, which are critical to spermatogenesis in the testes. We show that PFOA induces cell injury as evidenced by reduced cell viability, cell morphology changes and apoptosis induction. RNA-sequencing analysis reveals that PFOA-induced cell injury is correlated with compromised autophagy and activated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, two conserved biological processes required for regulating cellular homeostasis. Mechanistic analysis shows that PFOA inhibits autophagosomes formation, and activation of autophagy rescues PFOA-induced apoptosis. Additionally, PFOA activates ER stress, and pharmacological inhibition of ER stress attenuates PFOA-induced cell injury. Taken together, these results demonstrate that PFOA induces cell injury through inhibition of autophagosomes formation and induction of ER stress in Leydig cells. Thus, our study sheds light on the cellular mechanisms of PFOA-induced Leydig cell injury, which may be suggestive to human male reproductive health risk assessment and prevention from PFOA exposure-induced reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhuan Ou
- Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital; the First Affiliated Hospital of South University of Science and Technology of China; the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yali Song
- Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Postdoctoral Innovation Practice Base of Southern Medical University, Dongguan 523125, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoru Zhong
- Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital; the First Affiliated Hospital of South University of Science and Technology of China; the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lingyun Dai
- Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital; the First Affiliated Hospital of South University of Science and Technology of China; the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Junhui Chen
- Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital; the First Affiliated Hospital of South University of Science and Technology of China; the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wenqiao Zhang
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, 25 Taiping Street, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Chuanbin Yang
- Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital; the First Affiliated Hospital of South University of Science and Technology of China; the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Jigang Wang
- Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital; the First Affiliated Hospital of South University of Science and Technology of China; the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Shenzhen, China; Dongguan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Postdoctoral Innovation Practice Base of Southern Medical University, Dongguan 523125, Guangdong, China; Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, 25 Taiping Street, Luzhou 646000, China; State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Artemisinin Research Center, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China.
| | - Wei Zhang
- Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Shenzhen People's Hospital; the First Affiliated Hospital of South University of Science and Technology of China; the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Shenzhen, China.
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5
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Zhang D, Hu J, Li H. Perfluorooctanoic acid inhibits androgen biosynthesis in rat immature Leydig cells. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2024; 39:1700-1714. [PMID: 38050817 DOI: 10.1002/tox.24042] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a commonly used short-chain synthetic perfluoroalkyl agent. Immature Leydig cells (ILCs) are localized in the testis and responsible for androgen biosynthesis and metabolism. Although PFOA shows toxicity in the reproductive system, it is not clear if it disrupts the function of ILCs. In the present study, primary ILCs were isolated from 35-day-old rats and exposed to a range of PFOA concentrations (0, 0.01, 0.1, or 1 μM). It was determined that 0.1 or 1 μM PFOA reduced total androgen biosynthesis in ILCs. Specifically, 22R-hydroxycholesterol (22R), and pregnenolone (P5) mediated androgen biosynthesis were reduced by 0.1 μM PFOA. PFOA also selectively downregulated mRNA and protein expressions of steroidogenic enzymes including LHCGR, CYP11A1, 3β-HSD1, and NR5A1 at 0.01, 0.1, or 1 μM. Further analysis revealed that 0.1 μM PFOA inhibited CYP11A1 and 3β-HSD1 enzyme activities. However, PFOA did not significantly affect androgen metabolism and turnover under any of the conditions tested. And PFOA gavaging to 35-day-old rats at 5 or 10 mg/kg for 7 or 14 days also reduced serum androgen levels secreted by ILCs. Moreover, PFOA gavaging also downregulated the mRNA and protein expression levels of LHCGR, CYP11A1, 3β-HSD1, and NR5A1 in vivo. Taken together, these findings suggest that PFOA inhibits androgen biosynthesis in ILCs by selectively targeting key enzymes in the synthesis pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongxu Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiasheng Hu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Heming Li
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
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6
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Li S, Li G, Lin Y, Sun F, Zheng L, Yu Y, Xu H. Association between Perfluoroalkyl Substances in Follicular Fluid and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Infertile Women. TOXICS 2024; 12:104. [PMID: 38393199 PMCID: PMC10893032 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12020104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), a family of fluorinated organic com pounds, have garnered much attention due to their reproductive and developmental toxicity in humans. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disease that affects women of reproductive age and is a significant contributor to female infertility. A previous study suggested that PFASs play a possible role in PCOS. We conducted a clinical study investigating the relationship between PCOS and PFAS in follicular fluid. A total of 73 infertile patients with PCOS and 218 controls were recruited from the International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, affiliated with the Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine. The concentrations of 12 PFASs in follicular fluid samples and sex hormones in serum were measured. Correlation analysis and multiple linear regression revealed a positive relationship between perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and testosterone (T) concentrations. The adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each PFAS were estimated using multivariable logistic regression and quantile-based g-computation (QGC). The PFOA concentrations in follicular fluid were correlated with increased odds of PCOS (second vs. first quartile: OR = 3.65, 95% CI: 1.47-9.05, p = 0.005; third vs. first quartile: OR = 2.91, 95% CI: 1.17-7.26, p = 0.022; fourth vs. first quartile: OR = 3.13, 95% CI: 1.21-8.09, p = 0.019; P for trend = 0.032). This association was confirmed with QGC. Mediation analysis suggested that the mediation effect of T in association with PFOA and PCOS was not statistically significant. Our study suggests that PFOA may be a risk factor for PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sen Li
- International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China; (S.L.); (G.L.); (Y.L.); (F.S.)
- Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Speciality, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Guojing Li
- International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China; (S.L.); (G.L.); (Y.L.); (F.S.)
- Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Speciality, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Yu Lin
- International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China; (S.L.); (G.L.); (Y.L.); (F.S.)
- Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Speciality, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Feng Sun
- International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China; (S.L.); (G.L.); (Y.L.); (F.S.)
- Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Speciality, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Liqiang Zheng
- School of Public Health, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China;
| | - Yingying Yu
- International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China; (S.L.); (G.L.); (Y.L.); (F.S.)
- Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Speciality, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Hong Xu
- International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China; (S.L.); (G.L.); (Y.L.); (F.S.)
- Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Speciality, Shanghai 200030, China
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7
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Lee R, Lee WY, Park HJ. Diuron-induced fetal Leydig cell dysfunction in in vitro organ cultured fetal testes. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 123:108497. [PMID: 37949197 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Diuron is a phenylurea herbicide widely used in the agricultural industry. In recent years, the risk of infertility and developmental defects has increased due to exposure to environmental pollutants. In this study, we investigated the toxicity of diuron in fetal mouse testes using three-dimensional organ cultures. Fetal testes derived from embryonic day (E) 14.5 were cultured with 200 µM diuron for 5 days. The results revealed that diuron did not impair fetal germ cell proliferation or the expression levels of germ cell markers such as Ddx4, Dazl, Oct 4, Nanog, Plzf, and TRA 98. Similarly, the gene or protein expression of the Sertoli cell markers Sox9 and Wt1 in diuron-exposed fetal testes did not change after 5 days of culture. In contrast, diuron increased fetal Leydig cell markers (FLC), Cyp11a1, Cyp17a1, Thbs2, and Pdgf α, and decreased adult Leydig cell (ALC) markers, Sult1e1, Hsd173, Ptgds, and Vcam1. However, 3-βHSD, an FLC and ALC marker, was consistently maintained upon exposure to diuron in fetal testes compared to non-treated groups. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that diuron negatively impacts Fetal Leydig cell development, although it does not affect germ and Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Lee
- Department of Livestock, Korea National College of Agriculture and Fisheries, Jeonbuk 54874, Republic of Korea; Department of Animal Biotechnology, Sangji University, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do 26339, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Young Lee
- Department of Livestock, Korea National College of Agriculture and Fisheries, Jeonbuk 54874, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Jung Park
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Sangji University, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do 26339, Republic of Korea.
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Jang SI, Jo JH, Jung EJ, Lee WJ, Hwang JM, Bae JW, Shin S, Lee SI, Kim MO, Kwon WS. Perfluorooctanoic acid suppresses sperm functions via abnormal Protein Kinase B activation during capacitation. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 123:108528. [PMID: 38145882 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a perfluorinated compound, a synthesized chemical, and has been used in several industrial products for more than 70 years. Although PFOA is known to exert toxic effects in normal cells, there is no detailed information on its reproductive toxicity and its effects on sperm functions related to protein kinase B (AKT). Therefore, this study was conducted to explore the effects of PFOA on sperm functions via AKT. Boar spermatozoa were incubated with different concentrations of PFOA (0, 0.1, 1, 10, and 100 μM) to induce capacitation. Sperm functions (sperm motility, motion kinematic parameters, capacitation status, cell viability, and intracellular ATP levels) were evaluated. In addition, the expression levels of AKT, phospho-AKT, phospho-PKA, and tyrosine phosphorylated proteins were evaluated by western blotting. Results showed significant decreases in sperm motility and motion kinematic parameters. PFOA treatment significant suppressed spermatozoa capacitation and intracellular ATP levels. Furthermore, it significantly decreased the levels of phospho-PKA and tyrosine phosphorylated proteins. The levels of AKT phosphorylation at Thr308 and Ser473 also significantly decreased. These findings suggest that PFOA diminishes sperm functions during capacitation and induces unnatural phosphorylation in AKT, leading to reproductive toxicity. Therefore, people should be aware of reproductive toxicity when using PFOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung-Ik Jang
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37224, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Hwan Jo
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37224, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Ju Jung
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37224, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo-Jin Lee
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37224, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju-Mi Hwang
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37224, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Won Bae
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37224, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangsu Shin
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37224, Republic of Korea; Department of Animal Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37224, Republic of Korea; Research Institute for Innovative Animal Science, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37224, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang In Lee
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37224, Republic of Korea; Department of Animal Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37224, Republic of Korea; Research Institute for Innovative Animal Science, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37224, Republic of Korea
| | - Myoung Ok Kim
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37224, Republic of Korea; Department of Animal Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37224, Republic of Korea; Research Institute for Innovative Animal Science, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37224, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo-Sung Kwon
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37224, Republic of Korea; Department of Animal Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37224, Republic of Korea; Research Institute for Innovative Animal Science, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37224, Republic of Korea.
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9
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Kabakci R, Clark KL, Plewes MR, Monaco CF, Davis JS. Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) inhibits steroidogenesis and mitochondrial function in bovine granulosa cells in vitro. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 338:122698. [PMID: 37832777 PMCID: PMC10873118 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a persistent environmental contaminant. Due to the ubiquitous presence of PFOA in the environment, the impacts of PFOA exposure not only affect human reproductive health but may also affect livestock reproductive health. The focus of this study was to determine the effects of PFOA on the physiological functions of bovine granulosa cells in vitro. Primary bovine granulosa cells were exposed to 0, 4, and 40 μM PFOA for 48 and 96 h followed by analysis of granulosa cell function including cell viability, steroidogenesis, and mitochondrial activity. Results revealed that PFOA inhibited steroid hormone secretion and altered the expression of key enzymes required for steroidogenesis. Gene expression analysis revealed decreases in mRNA transcripts for CYP11A1, HSD3B, and CYP19A1 and an increase in STAR expression after PFOA exposure. Similarly, PFOA decreased levels of CYP11A1 and CYP19A1 protein. PFOA did not impact live cell number, alter the cell cycle, or induce apoptosis, although it reduced metabolic activity, indicative of mitochondrial dysfunction. We observed that PFOA treatment caused a loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and increases in PINK protein expression, suggestive of mitophagy and mitochondrial damage. Further analysis revealed that these changes were associated with increased levels of reactive oxygen species. Expression of autophagy related proteins phosphoULK1 and LAMP2 were increased after PFOA exposure, in addition to an increased abundance of lysosomes, characteristic of increased autophagy. Taken together, these findings suggest that PFOA can negatively impact granulosa cell steroidogenesis via mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruhi Kabakci
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kirikkale University, 71450 Yahsihan, Kirikkale, Turkey; Deparment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Kendra L Clark
- Deparment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA
| | - Michele R Plewes
- Deparment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; Deparment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA
| | - Corrine F Monaco
- Deparment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - John S Davis
- Deparment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; Deparment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA; Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE 68105, USA.
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10
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Daugherty S, Mulabagal V, Hayworth J, Akingbemi BT. Legacy and Emerging Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances Regulate Steroidogenesis in the Male Gonad. Endocrinology 2023; 164:bqad142. [PMID: 37767721 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widely used in a variety of industrial processes and manufacturing of consumer products. Current efforts by the manufacturing industry will limit use of long-chain or legacy PFAS represented by perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and replace with short-chain or emerging PFAS such as perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA) and perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS). However, there is little to no information on the toxicity of new and emerging PFAS. Therefore, we performed experiments in growing Long-Evans male rats to investigate effects of low-dose prepubertal and pubertal exposures to PFAS on gonadal steroid hormone secretion. The results demonstrated that both legacy and emerging PFAS have the capacity to regulate testicular steroidogenesis. For instance, prepubertal exposures to PFOS, PFBA, and PFBS increased serum and testicular testosterone concentrations. Exposure to PFBA increased testicular 17β-estradiol (E2) concentrations, and PFOS and PFBS both decreased serum E2 concentrations while stimulating testicular E2 secretion. The data also demonstrated additive effects due to legacy and emerging PFAS mixtures compared with the individual chemicals. The gonadal effects due to PFAS exposures occurred at nanomolar concentrations, which approximate PFAS levels in the environment. Taken together, the present study supports the need for development of cost-effective and sustainable filtration media for different processes to remove PFAS from water and other sources of exposure. Current action by regulatory agencies such as the US Environmental Protection Agency to limit use of PFAS in the manufacture of consumer products will protect public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Daugherty
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, Auburn University, Auburn AL 36849, USA
| | - Vanisree Mulabagal
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn AL 36849, USA
| | - Joel Hayworth
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn AL 36849, USA
| | - Benson T Akingbemi
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, Auburn University, Auburn AL 36849, USA
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11
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Ogunsuyi OM, Fasakin PT, Ajibiye OP, Ogunsuyi OI, Adekoya KO. Perfluoroundecanoic acid induces DNA damage, reproductive and pathophysiological dysfunctions via oxidative stress in male Swiss mice. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 338:139491. [PMID: 37453524 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUnA) is an eleven carbon-chain compound that belongs to the perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acid family. It has been detected in the human blood, effluents, and surface/ground waters, but its toxic effects to the DNA and reproductive system remain unclear. This study was aimed at exploring the toxicity of PFUnA on the hepatic DNA, organ-system and reproductive system in orally treated male Swiss mice. In this present study, administration of PFUnA for 28 days with five doses (0.1, 0.3, 05, 0.7 and 1.0 mg kg-1 b.w./d) in male Swiss mice induced significant hepatic DNA damage which was observed using the alkaline comet assay and equally altered hematological and clinical biochemical parameters. In addition to testicular atrophy, sperm count and sperm motility significantly decreased while sperm abnormalities increased after 35 days exposure. Serum LH and FSH levels were remarkably increased while serum testosterone levels were strikingly reduced. Histopathology revealed the liver, kidney, and testis as potential targets of PFUnA toxicity. Increased activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), as well as levels of glutathione-s-transferase (GST) and reduced glutathione (GSH), with consistent reduction of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and reduced glutathione (GSH) in the liver and testis induced oxidative stress. In conclusion, PFUnA exhibited both genotoxicity and reproductive toxicity via oxidative stress induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Opeoluwa M Ogunsuyi
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, University of Lagos, Akoka-Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria.
| | - Peter T Fasakin
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, University of Lagos, Akoka-Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Oluwatobi P Ajibiye
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, University of Lagos, Akoka-Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Olusegun I Ogunsuyi
- Department of Biological Science, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, Mountain Top University, Ibafo, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - Khalid O Adekoya
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, University of Lagos, Akoka-Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
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12
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Zhang R, Li X, Su Z, Ning F, Gao Y. Effect of dietary antioxidants on excretion of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) via regulating uptake transporters expression and intestinal permeability in mice. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 262:115224. [PMID: 37413964 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Dietary antioxidants, including 2,6-di-tert-butyl-hydroxytoluene (BHT), α-tocopherol (αT) and tea polyphenol (TP), have been widely used in food. However, no data about the effect of food antioxidants on PFOA excretion were available. In this study, excretion of PFOA toward mice (four mice in each group) under the influence of co-ingested food antioxidants (i.e., BHT, αT, and TP) were investigated, and mechanism involved in excretion of PFOA, including RNA expression of uptake and efflux transporters in kidneys and liver involved in PFOA transport and intestinal permeability were also investigated. Chronic exposure to BHT (1.56 mg/kg) increased urinary PFOA excretion from 1795 ± 340 ng/mL (control) to 3340 ± 29.9 ng/mL (BHT treatment). TP treatment (12.5 mg/kg) decreased urinary excretion of PFOA, i.e., with a decrease percentage of 70% compared to the control. Organic anion transporting polypeptides (Oatps) act as uptake transporter mediate renal elimination or reabsorption of PFOA in the kidney. The decrease in urinary excretion of PFOA under TP treatment was associated with significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced expression of Oatp1a1 in the kidney (1.78 ± 0.58 vs 1.00 ± 0.18 in control), which facilitated renal reabsorption of PFOA and in turn decreased urinary excretion of PFOA. αT treatment (12.5 mg/kg) increased fecal PFOA excretion with a value of 228 ± 95.8 ng/g vs control (96.8 ± 22.7 ng/g). Mechanistic investigation revealed that αT treatment reduced intestinal permeability, resulting in increased fecal PFOA excretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruirui Zhang
- Jinan Environmental Research Academy, Jinan 250100, China; School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310000, China.
| | - Xin Li
- Jinan Environmental Research Academy, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Zhaoxin Su
- Jinan Environmental Research Academy, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Fangyuan Ning
- Jinan Environmental Research Academy, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Yuxue Gao
- Jinan Environmental Research Academy, Jinan 250100, China
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13
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Shan L, Chai Y, Gao T, Li K, Yu J, Liang F, Ni Y, Sun P. Perfluorooctane sulfonate and perfluorooctanoic acid inhibit progesterone-responsive capacitation through cAMP/PKA signaling pathway and induce DNA damage in human sperm. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2023:104165. [PMID: 37245612 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2023.104165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) are two persistent organic pollutants harmful to human health. They induce negative effects on male reproduction by influencing male hormones, spermatogenesis, and sperm quality. However, their effects and mechanisms on human sperm capacitation and fertilization remain unclear. Here, human sperm were incubated with different concentrations of PFOS or PFOA with progesterone during capacitation. Both PFOS and PFOA inhibited human sperm hyperactivation, sperm acrosome reaction, and protein tyrosine phosphorylation levels. PFOS and PFOA decreased intracellular Ca2+ concentration in the presence of progestrone, and subsequently decreased cAMP level, and PKA activity. PFOS and PFOA increased reactive oxygen species production and sperm DNA fragmentation duing the only 3h capacitation incubation. Conclusively, PFOA and PFOS may inhibit human sperm capacitation via the Ca2+-mediated cAMP/PKA signaling pathway in the presence of progesterone, and induce sperm DNA damage through increased oxidative stress, which is not conducive to fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Shan
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuhao Chai
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tian Gao
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kun Li
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal's & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jianmin Yu
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal's & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fei Liang
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal's & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ya Ni
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal's & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Peibei Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal's & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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14
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Lu T, Mortimer M, Li F, Li Z, Chen L, Li M, Guo LH. Putative adverse outcome pathways of the male reproductive toxicity derived from toxicological studies of perfluoroalkyl acids. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 873:162439. [PMID: 36848992 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Adverse outcome pathway (AOP) as a conceptual framework is a powerful tool in the field of toxicology to connect seemingly discrete events at different levels of biological organizations into an organized pathway from molecular interactions to whole organism toxicity. Based on numerous toxicological studies, eight AOPs for reproductive toxicity have been endorsed by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Task Force on Hazard Assessment. We have conducted a literature survey on the mechanistic studies on male reproductive toxicity of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs), a class of global environmental contaminants with high persistence, bioaccumulation and toxicity. Using the AOP development strategy, five new AOPs for male reproductive toxicity were proposed here, namely (1) changes in membrane permeability leading to reduced sperm motility, (2) disruption of mitochondrial function leading to sperm apoptosis, (3) decreased gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) expression in hypothalamus leading to reduced testosterone production in male rats, (4) activation of the p38 signaling pathway leading to disruption of BTB in mice, (5) inhibition of p-FAK-Tyr407 activity leading to the destruction of BTB. The molecular initiating events in the proposed AOPs are different from those in the endorsed AOPs, which are either receptor activation or enzyme inhibition. Although some of the AOPs are still incomplete, they can serve as a building block upon which full AOPs can be developed and applied to not only PFAAs but also other chemical toxicants with male reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingyu Lu
- College of Life Science, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
| | - Monika Mortimer
- Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; College of Quality and Safety Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
| | - Fangfang Li
- Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; College of Quality and Safety Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
| | - Zhi Li
- College of Life Science, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
| | - Lu Chen
- College of Life Science, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
| | - Minjie Li
- College of Quality and Safety Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
| | - Liang-Hong Guo
- Institute of Environmental and Health Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China; College of Quality and Safety Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China.
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15
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Han JW, Park HJ. Perfluorooctanoic acid induces cell death in TM3 cells via the ER stress-mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. Reprod Toxicol 2023; 118:108383. [PMID: 37044272 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is an environmentally ubiquitous synthetic chemical highly persistent in organisms. PFOA exposure is pernicious to reproductive health as indicated by reports of male infertility. However, the PFOA toxicity mechanism to Leydig cells remains poorly understood. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the toxicological events occurring in TM3 Leydig cells treated with PFOA (250, 500, 750µM) for 24h. PFOA was shown to significantly decrease cell viability resulting from inhibition of proliferation and elevation of apoptotic ratio in a dose dependent manner. Upregulation of pro-apoptotic gene expressions such as Bax, Bad, and p53, was observed in combination with an increase in the apoptosis-related protein levels of Bax, cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-8, and phosphorylated p53. Furthermore, exposure of PFOA lead to mitochondrial damage involving mitochondrial membrane permeabilization. A release of cytochrome c and collapse of the mitochondrial membrane potential (∆Ψm) were observed compared to the untreated control. Additionally, PFOA stimulated unfolded protein response (UPR) upregulating ER stress marker, Bip/GRP78, and upregulated protein levels of UPR signal molecules IRE1, p-JNK, p-ERK1/2, p-p53, CHOP, and ERO1. Overall, the present study elucidated the ER stress-mitochondrial apoptosis pathway-related molecular mechanisms involved in PFOA-induced cell death in TM3 Leydig cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong-Won Han
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, KIT, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Jung Park
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Sangji University, Wonju-si, 26339, Republic of Korea.
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16
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Abudayyak M, Karaman EF, Guler ZR, Ozden S. Effects of perfluorooctanoic acid on endoplasmic reticulum stress and lipid metabolism-related genes in human pancreatic cells. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 98:104083. [PMID: 36804611 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2023.104083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is environmentally persistent and has been classified by The International Cancer Research Agency (IARC) as a possible human pancreatic carcinogen. In this study, the epigenetic alteration, the changes in the expression levels of endoplasmic reticulum stress-related and metabolism-related genes, as well as DNA methyltransferase expression were investigated using RT-PCR and ELISA assays. PFOA induced a significant increase in the methylation ratio (5-mC%), impacted DNA methylation maintenance gene expression and decreased lipid metabolism-related genes except for PPARγ (≥ 13-fold increase). While PFOA induced the expression of ATF4 (≥ 5.41-folds), CHOP (≥ 5.41-folds) genes, it inhibited the expression of ATF6 (≥ 67.2%), GRP78 (≥ 64.3%), Elf2α (≥ 95.8%), IRE1 (≥ 95.5%), and PERK (≥ 91.7%) genes. It is thought that epigenetic mechanisms together with disruption in the glucose-lipid metabolism and changes in endoplasmic reticulum stress-related genes may play a key role in PFOA-induced pancreatic toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Abudayyak
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ecem Fatma Karaman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Biruni University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Rana Guler
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey; Institute of Graduate Studies in Health Sciences, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sibel Ozden
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey.
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17
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Tysman M, Toppari J, Main KM, Adamsson A, Wohlfahrt-Veje C, Antignac JP, Le Bizec B, Löyttyniemi E, Skakkebæk NE, Virtanen HE. Levels of persistent organic pollutants in breast milk samples representing Finnish and Danish boys with and without hypospadias. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 313:137343. [PMID: 36423724 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.137343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Hypospadias is a congenital malformation of penile urethra with unknown etiology in most cases. Persistent organic pollutant (POP) exposure may disrupt endocrine function during a critical window of development of male genitalia. In animal studies, POPs have been associated with male reproductive disorders, including hypospadias, but only few studies have assessed this relationship in humans. The aim of this study is to investigate the association between hypospadias and POP concentration levels in breast milk, as a proxy for prenatal exposure. This is a nested case-control study of Danish and Finnish mother-son pairs. Maternal breast milk samples were collected between 1997 and 2002, and they represent infant boys born with hypospadias [n = 33 (n = 22 Danish and n = 11 Finnish)] and their 1:1 matched controls. Breast milk samples were analyzed for six classes of POPs [including dioxins, polychlorinated biphenyls, flame retardants and perfluorinated alkylated substances (PFAS)]. We estimated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for each chemical class using conditional logistic regression. In addition, a composite exposure score system was used to explore the effect of a POP mixture (four chemical classes): The composite score was categorized as low, moderate, or high exposure, and differences between cases and controls were tested with conditional logistic regression. No statistically significant associations were observed between the sums of the chemical classes and hypospadias in either country. The composite score was unable to detect differences in the risk of hypospadias between the tertiles of POP exposure. Levels of PFAS were significantly higher in Danish than in Finnish breast milk samples. This small study does not provide evidence for an association between hypospadias and exposure to POPs but adds information on quantitative exposures. Further development of multi-exposure models is needed for assessing the potential mixture effect associated with multiple chemical exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Tysman
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, And Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku, Turku, Finland; Adjunct Affiliation with General Pediatrics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.
| | - Jorma Toppari
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, And Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku, Turku, Finland; Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; Int Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Katharina M Main
- Dept. of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Int Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Dept of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Annika Adamsson
- Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.
| | - Christine Wohlfahrt-Veje
- Dept. of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Int Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | | | | | | | - Niels E Skakkebæk
- Dept. of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Int Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Dept of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Helena E Virtanen
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, And Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
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18
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Zhang Z, Wen R, Zhang W, Ge N, Bo J. Efficacy and mechanism of lipoic acid in the treatment of reproductive injury caused by perfluorooctanoic acid. Exp Ther Med 2023; 25:116. [PMID: 36815965 PMCID: PMC9934001 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.11815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Environmental pollutants, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), cause severe reproductive damage to humans and animals. Lipoic acid (LA) is a strong antioxidant that alleviates the oxidative damage caused by heavy metals, environmental toxicants, chemical poisons, etc. Therefore, the present study investigated the curative effect and mechanism of LA in treating spermatogenesis dysfunction caused by PFOA. A rat reproductive injury model was established by gavage of PFOA for consecutive 30 days and then rats were treated with different doses of LA for 42 days. The effects were assessed by ELISA, western blotting, H&E staining and immunofluorescence staining. The results demonstrated that LA had ameliorating effects on PFOA-induced reproductive injury in rats, it increased the sperm counts, and the levels of serum succinate dehydrogenase, lactate dehydrogenase, glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase returned to normal levels following LA treatment. In addition, LA promoted the expression of estradiol, reduced the expression of serum sex hormones, such as follicle-stimulating hormone, androgen receptor (AR) and malondialdehyde in the testes, and restored the structure of seminiferous tubules. Its therapeutic mechanisms include regulating the testicular oxidative stress pathway and hypothalamic-pituitary-testis axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyan Zhang
- Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 014010, P.R. China
| | - Rong Wen
- Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 014010, P.R. China
| | - Wenlong Zhang
- Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 014010, P.R. China
| | - Na Ge
- School of Public Health, Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 014010, P.R. China
| | - Jinwei Bo
- Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 014010, P.R. China,Correspondence to: Professor Jinwei Bo, Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology, 41 Linyin Road, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 014010, P.R. China
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19
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Krawczyk K, Marynowicz W, Pich K, Jedruch O, Kania G, Gogola-Mruk J, Tworzydlo W, Polanski Z, Ptak A. Persistent organic pollutants affect steroidogenic and apoptotic activities in granulosa cells and reactive oxygen species concentrations in oocytes in the mouse. Reprod Fertil Dev 2023; 35:294-305. [PMID: 36403477 DOI: 10.1071/rd21326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT The destruction of granulosa cells (GCs), the main functional cell type in the ovary, prevents steroid hormone production, which in turn may damage oocytes, resulting in ovarian failure. The accumulation of a number of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the ovarian follicular fluid (FF) has been documented, which raises serious questions regarding their impact on female fertility. AIMS We aimed to determine whether a mixture of POPs reflecting the profile found in FF influences mouse GCs or oocyte function and viability. METHODS A mixture of POPs, comprising perfluorooctanoate, perfluorooctane sulfonate, 2,2-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene, polychlorinated biphenyl 153, and hexachlorobenzene, was used. In addition to using the exact concentration of POPs previously measured in human FF, we tested two other mixtures, one with10-fold lower and another with 10-fold higher concentrations of each POP. KEY RESULTS Steroidogenesis was disrupted in GCs by the POP mixture, as demonstrated by lower oestradiol and progesterone secretion and greater lipid droplet accumulation. Furthermore, the POP mixture reduced GC viability and increased apoptosis, assessed using caspase-3 activity. The POP mixture significantly increased the number of oocytes that successfully progressed to the second meiotic metaphase and the oocyte reactive oxygen species (ROS) concentration. CONCLUSIONS Thus, a mixture of POPs that are typically present in human FF has detrimental effects on ovarian function: it reduces the viability of GCs, and increases the oocyte concentrations of ROS. IMPLICATIONS These results indicate that chronic exposure to POPs adversely affects female reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinga Krawczyk
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Weronika Marynowicz
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Karolina Pich
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Oliwia Jedruch
- Laboratory of Genetics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Gabriela Kania
- Laboratory of Genetics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Justyna Gogola-Mruk
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Waclaw Tworzydlo
- Department of Developmental Biology and Invertebrate Morphology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Zbigniew Polanski
- Laboratory of Genetics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Anna Ptak
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387 Krakow, Poland
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Corpuz-Hilsabeck M, Culty M. Impact of endocrine disrupting chemicals and pharmaceuticals on Sertoli cell development and functions. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1095894. [PMID: 36793282 PMCID: PMC9922725 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1095894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells play essential roles in male reproduction, from supporting fetal testis development to nurturing male germ cells from fetal life to adulthood. Dysregulating Sertoli cell functions can have lifelong adverse effects by jeopardizing early processes such as testis organogenesis, and long-lasting processes such as spermatogenesis. Exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is recognized as contributing to the rising incidence of male reproductive disorders and decreasing sperm counts and quality in humans. Some drugs also act as endocrine disruptors by exerting off-target effects on endocrine tissues. However, the mechanisms of toxicity of these compounds on male reproduction at doses compatible with human exposure are still not fully resolved, especially in the case of mixtures, which remain understudied. This review presents first an overview of the mechanisms regulating Sertoli cell development, maintenance, and functions, and then surveys what is known on the impact of EDCs and drugs on immature Sertoli cells, including individual compounds and mixtures, and pinpointing at knowledge gaps. Performing more studies on the impact of mixtures of EDCs and drugs at all ages is crucial to fully understand the adverse outcomes these chemicals may induce on the reproductive system.
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Rzeszotek S, Kolasa A, Pilutin A, Misiakiewicz-Has K, Sielatycka K, Wiszniewska B. The Interplay between Finasteride-Induced Androgen Imbalance, Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress, Oxidative Stress, and Liver Disorders in Paternal and Filial Generation. Biomedicines 2022; 10:2725. [PMID: 36359245 PMCID: PMC9687381 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10112725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Finasteride (Fin) causes androgen imbalance by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone (T) to its more active metabolite, dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Androgen receptors (AR) are present (e.g., in hepatocytes), which have well-developed endoplasmic reticulum (ERet). Cellular protein quality control is carried out by ERet in two paths: (i) unfolded protein response (UPR) and/or (ii) endoplasmic reticulum associated degradation (ERAD). ERet under continuous stress can generate changes in the UPR and can direct the cell on the pathway of life or death. It has been demonstrated that genes involved in ERet stress are among the genes controlled by androgens in some tissues. Oxidative stress is also one of the factors affecting the functions of ERet and androgens are one of the regulators of antioxidant enzyme activity. In this paper, we discuss/analyze a possible relationship between androgen imbalance in paternal generation with ERet stress and liver disorders in both paternal and filial generation. In our rat model, hyperglycemia and subsequent higher accumulation of hepatic glycogen were observed in all filial generation obtained from females fertilized by Fin-treated males (F1:Fin). Importantly, genes encoding enzymes involved in glucose and glycogen metabolism have been previously recognized among UPR targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Rzeszotek
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Kolasa
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Anna Pilutin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Kamila Misiakiewicz-Has
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Sielatycka
- Institute of Biology, Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences, University of Szczecin, 71-415 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Barbara Wiszniewska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
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22
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Hærvig KK, Petersen KU, Hougaard KS, Lindh C, Ramlau-Hansen CH, Toft G, Giwercman A, Høyer BB, Flachs EM, Bonde JP, Tøttenborg SS. Maternal Exposure to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and Male Reproductive Function in Young Adulthood: Combined Exposure to Seven PFAS. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2022; 130:107001. [PMID: 36197086 PMCID: PMC9533763 DOI: 10.1289/ehp10285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Concerns remain about the human reproductive toxicity of the widespread per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) during early stages of development. OBJECTIVES We examined associations between maternal plasma PFAS levels during early pregnancy and male offspring reproductive function in adulthood. METHODS The study included 864 young men (age range:18.9-21.2 y) from the Fetal Programming of Semen Quality (FEPOS) cohort established between 2017 and 2019. Plasma samples from their mothers, primarily from the first trimester, were retrieved from the Danish National Biobank and levels of 15 PFAS were measured. Seven PFAS had detectable levels above the limit of detection in >80% of the samples and were included in analyses. Semen quality, testicular volume, and levels of reproductive hormones and PFAS were assessed in the young men. We used weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression to estimate the associations between combined exposure to maternal PFAS and reproductive function, and negative binomial regression to estimate the associations of single substances, while adjusting for a range of a priori-defined fetal and postnatal risk factors. RESULTS By a 1-unit increase in the WQS index, combined maternal PFAS exposure was associated with lower sperm concentration (-8%; 95% CI: -16%, -1%), total sperm count (-10%; 95% CI: -17%, -2%), and a higher proportion of nonprogressive and immotile sperm (5%; 95% CI: 1%, 8%) in the young men. Different PFAS contributed to the associations with varying strengths; however, perfluoroheptanoic acid was identified as the main contributor in the analyses of all three outcomes despite the low concentration. We saw no clear association between exposure to maternal PFAS and testicular volume or reproductive hormones. DISCUSSION In a sample of young men from the general Danish population, we observed consistent inverse associations between exposure to maternal PFAS and semen quality. The study needs to be replicated in other populations, taking combined exposure, as well as emerging short-chain PFAS, into consideration. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP10285.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katia Keglberg Hærvig
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital–Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kajsa Ugelvig Petersen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital–Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Karin Sørig Hougaard
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christian Lindh
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Gunnar Toft
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Aleksander Giwercman
- Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmo, Sweden
| | - Birgit Bjerre Høyer
- Department of Regional Development, Region of Southern Denmark, Vejle, Denmark
| | - Esben Meulengracht Flachs
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital–Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Peter Bonde
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital–Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sandra Søgaard Tøttenborg
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital–Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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23
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Guarnotta V, Amodei R, Frasca F, Aversa A, Giordano C. Impact of Chemical Endocrine Disruptors and Hormone Modulators on the Endocrine System. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105710. [PMID: 35628520 PMCID: PMC9145289 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There is growing concern regarding the health and safety issues of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Long-term exposure to EDCs has alarming adverse health effects through both hormone-direct and hormone-indirect pathways. Non-chemical agents, including physical agents such as artificial light, radiation, temperature, and stress exposure, are currently poorly investigated, even though they can seriously affect the endocrine system, by modulation of hormonal action. Several mechanisms have been suggested to explain the interference of EDCs with hormonal activity. However, difficulty in quantifying the exposure, low standardization of studies, and the presence of confounding factors do not allow the establishment of a causal relationship between endocrine disorders and exposure to specific toxic agents. In this review, we focus on recent findings on the effects of EDCs and hormone system modulators on the endocrine system, including the thyroid, parathyroid glands, adrenal steroidogenesis, beta-cell function, and male and female reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Guarnotta
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties “G. D’Alessandro” (PROMISE), Section of Endocrinology, University of Palermo, Piazza delle Cliniche 2, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (V.G.); (R.A.)
| | - Roberta Amodei
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties “G. D’Alessandro” (PROMISE), Section of Endocrinology, University of Palermo, Piazza delle Cliniche 2, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (V.G.); (R.A.)
| | - Francesco Frasca
- Endocrinology Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Garibaldi Nesima Hospital, University of Catania, 95122 Catania, Italy;
| | - Antonio Aversa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Carla Giordano
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties “G. D’Alessandro” (PROMISE), Section of Endocrinology, University of Palermo, Piazza delle Cliniche 2, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (V.G.); (R.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0916552110
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Han X, Alam MN, Cao M, Wang X, Cen M, Tian M, Lu Y, Huang Q. Low Levels of Perfluorooctanoic Acid Exposure Activates Steroid Hormone Biosynthesis through Repressing Histone Methylation in Rats. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:5664-5672. [PMID: 35438966 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c08885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a persistent organic pollutant, which has endocrine-disrupting properties and can interfere with the synthesis and secretion of testicular steroid hormones, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are still not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the effects of low doses of PFOA exposure on testicular steroidogenesis in rats and revealed the role of histone modifications. It was found that the serum levels of progesterone, testosterone, and estradiol were significantly increased after 0.015 and 0.15 mg/kg of PFOA exposure, and the expression of Star, a key rate-limiting gene, was up-regulated, while other steroidogenic genes Cyp11a1, Hsd3b, Cyp17a1, and Hsd17b were down-regulated. In addition, the levels of multiple histone modifications (H3K9me1/2/3 and H3K9/18/23ac) were all significantly reduced by PFOA in rat testis. Histone H3K9 methylation is associated with gene silencing, while histone acetylation leads to gene activation. ChIP analysis further showed that H3K9me1/3 was significantly decreased in the promoter region of Star, while H3K18ac levels were down-regulated in other gene promoters. Accordingly, we suggest that low-level PFOA enhances StAR expression through the repression of H3K9me1/3, which stimulates steroid hormone production in rat testis. These results are expected to shed new light on the molecular mechanisms by which low-dose PFOA disturbs male reproductive endocrine from an epigenetic aspect and may be useful for human health risk assessment regarding environmental PFOA exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuejingping Han
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Md Nur Alam
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Meiyi Cao
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Xiaojuan Wang
- Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Meifeng Cen
- Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Meiping Tian
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Yanyang Lu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Qingyu Huang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
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25
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Clark KL, George JW, Hua G, Davis JS. Perfluorooctanoic acid promotes proliferation of the human granulosa cell line HGrC1 and alters expression of cell cycle genes and Hippo pathway effector YAP1. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 110:49-59. [PMID: 35346789 PMCID: PMC10364788 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a common environmental contaminant that belongs to a group of manmade fluorinated chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Due to the pervasive nature of PFOA, the environmental health risks of PFOA contamination and exposure on reproductive health have increasing concern. In the present study, we exposed HGrC1 cells, an immortalized human granulosa cell line, to environmentally relevant (1-10 μM) concentrations of PFOA. Results indicated that HGrC1 cells treated with PFOA had increased proliferation and migration relative to vehicle treated controls. No differences in cell apoptosis were observed with 1-10 μM PFOA. Gene expression analysis revealed increases in mRNA transcripts for cell cycle regulators CCND1, CCNA2, and CCNB1. Upregulation of YAP1 protein and downstream target CTGF protein was also observed, suggesting that the Hippo pathway is involved in the proliferation and migratory effects of PFOA on HGrC1 cells. Further, the YAP1 inhibitor Verteporfin prevented the stimulatory effects of PFOA on HGrC1 cells. Together, these findings support a role for the Hippo pathway effector YAP1 in response to PFOA exposure in human granulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendra L Clark
- Olson Center for Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, 68198, USA; Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System, 4101 Woolworth Ave, Omaha, Nebraska, 68105, USA
| | - Jitu W George
- Olson Center for Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, 68198, USA; Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System, 4101 Woolworth Ave, Omaha, Nebraska, 68105, USA
| | - Guohua Hua
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science & Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430070, China
| | - John S Davis
- Olson Center for Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, 68198, USA; Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System, 4101 Woolworth Ave, Omaha, Nebraska, 68105, USA.
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26
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Huang Q, Luo L, Han X, Li F, Zhang X, Tian M. Low-dose perfluorooctanoic acid stimulates steroid hormone synthesis in Leydig cells: Integrated proteomics and metabolomics evidence. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 424:127656. [PMID: 34774353 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), one of the well-known perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), has been widespread in the environment and associated with male reproductive toxicity. However, the molecular mechanism involved in low-level PFOA-induced male endocrine disruption remains to be elucidated. In this study, we performed a combined proteomics and metabolomics analysis to investigate the proteomic and metabolic alterations in MLTC-1 Leydig cells responsive to low levels of PFOA exposure. The results showed that PFOA significantly regulated the expressions of 67 proteins and 17 metabolites, among which 18 proteins and 7 metabolites were specifically tied to lipid and fatty acid metabolism as well as testicular steroidogenesis. It is further suggested that low-dose PFOA stimulates steroid hormone synthesis by accelerating fatty acid metabolism and steroidogenic process, which is involved in the repression of p38 and cAMP-dependent ERK signaling pathway. The animal studies also revealed that environmentally relevant levels of PFOA increased serum steroid hormone levels accompanied by the activated cAMP and inhibited p38/ERK pathway in testis, which confirmed our in vitro findings. Overall, the present study will provide novel insights into the toxicological mechanisms of low-level PFOA-mediated steroidogenic disturbance, and may implicate the reproductive health risk of humans with environmental PFOA exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyu Huang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China.
| | - Lianzhong Luo
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Marine Biomedicine Resources, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen 361023, China
| | - Xuejingping Han
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Fuping Li
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Meiping Tian
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
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27
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Khwanes SA, Mohamed RA, Ibrahim KA, Abd El-Rahman HA. Ginger reserves testicular spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis in difenoconazole-intoxicated rats by conducting oxidative stress, apoptosis and proliferation. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14241. [PMID: 34519103 DOI: 10.1111/and.14241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Difenoconazole, a triazole fungicide, can induce reproductive toxicity in aquatic species, but the probable mechanisms of this hazard in mammals are not formally reported. Here, we have examined the possible ameliorative efficiency of the ginger aqueous extract against the reproductive toxicity of difenoconazole in male rats. Thirty-six animals were equally divided into six groups: control, ginger aqueous extract (50 mg/kg), difenoconazole (15 mg/kg), difenoconazole (30 mg/kg) and ginger co-treated with two doses of difenoconazole. Difenoconazole markedly decreased sperm count, motility and normality percentage, together with the Johnson score. Difenoconazole also significantly reduced serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone levels, as well as the activities of testicular steroidogenic acute regulatory protein and 17 β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases. Furthermore, difenoconazole brought a significant decrease in the testicular activity of catalase, but it increased the activity of glutathione peroxidase. Moreover, difenoconazole upregulated the testicular transcripts of Bax and caspase-3, increased Ki-67 immunoreactivity and induced histoarchitecture alterations plus DNA damage. Remarkably, ginger co-treatment preserved sperm toxicity, restored hormone profiles, increased steroidogenic activity and prevented oxidative injury-promoted testicular apoptosis. In conclusion, phenolic acids and flavonoids of ginger can reserve spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis in difenoconazole-intoxicated rats by improving testicular redox status, inhibiting apoptosis and refining proliferation capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soad A Khwanes
- Mammalian Toxicology Department, Central Agricultural Pesticides Laboratory, Agricultural Research Center, Dokki, Giza, Egypt
| | - Rania A Mohamed
- Mammalian Toxicology Department, Central Agricultural Pesticides Laboratory, Agricultural Research Center, Dokki, Giza, Egypt
| | - Khairy A Ibrahim
- Mammalian Toxicology Department, Central Agricultural Pesticides Laboratory, Agricultural Research Center, Dokki, Giza, Egypt
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28
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PFAS Molecules: A Major Concern for the Human Health and the Environment. TOXICS 2022; 10:toxics10020044. [PMID: 35202231 PMCID: PMC8878656 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10020044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of over 4700 heterogeneous compounds with amphipathic properties and exceptional stability to chemical and thermal degradation. The unique properties of PFAS compounds has been exploited for almost 60 years and has largely contributed to their wide applicability over a vast range of industrial, professional and non-professional uses. However, increasing evidence indicate that these compounds represent also a serious concern for both wildlife and human health as a result of their ubiquitous distribution, their extreme persistence and their bioaccumulative potential. In light of the adverse effects that have been already documented in biota and human populations or that might occur in absence of prompt interventions, the competent authorities in matter of health and environment protection, the industries as well as scientists are cooperating to identify the most appropriate regulatory measures, substitution plans and remediation technologies to mitigate PFAS impacts. In this review, starting from PFAS chemistry, uses and environmental fate, we summarize the current knowledge on PFAS occurrence in different environmental media and their effects on living organisms, with a particular emphasis on humans. Also, we describe present and provisional legislative measures in the European Union framework strategy to regulate PFAS manufacture, import and use as well as some of the most promising treatment technologies designed to remediate PFAS contamination in different environmental compartments.
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29
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Li X, Chen L, Zhou H, Wang J, Zhao C, Pang X. PFOA regulate adenosine receptors and downstream concentration-response cAMP-PKA pathway revealed by integrated omics and molecular dynamics analyses. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 803:149910. [PMID: 34500266 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.149910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
As an important pollutant, perfluorooctane acid (PFOA) has been widely concerned and reported by thousands of times, while less is known about the concentration-response pathway of PFOA. The aim of the present work was to reveal the concentration-response mechanism of PFOA in human cells. Omics results showed that calcium-related pathways play key roles in PFOA injury mechanisms. The results of GO and KEGG analyses showed that the cAMP signaling pathway was presented as the top one in all of the regulatory patterns and concentrations groups of PFOA. In the cAMP signaling pathway, the adenosine A1 receptor (ADORA1) recognized the low concentration of PFOA and induced pathway "Gi-cAMP-PKA" to decrease the concentration of cAMP. This indicated that the low concentration of PFOA may promote breast hyperplasia and inhibit lactation. While adenosine A2A receptor (ADORA2A) recognized the high concentration of PFOA and induced pathway "GS-AC-cAMP-RKA" to increase the concentration of cAMP, induce cell damage and may lead to the deterioration of breast cancer. The results of molecular dynamics simulation showed that PFOA could bind to ADORA1 and ADORA2A, thus cause subsequent signal transduction. Furthermore, considering the strong binding ability of PFOA with ADORA1, PFOA tends to bind to ADORA1 at a low concentration. On the other side, PFOA at high concentration will continue to bind to another receptor protein, ADORA2A, and activate subsequent signaling pathways. Combined analyses of transcriptomic and proteomic revealed that different concentrations of PFOA regulate cellular calcium-related pathways. The cAMP pathway showed a concentration-response effect of PFOA. After treatment with different concentrations of PFOA, ADORA1 and ADORA2A were activated respectively, showing opposite cellular effects, leading to kinds of breast lesions. In the nervous system, PFOA might induce a variety of nervous system diseases. The present work was an exploration on the toxicological mechanism of PFOA, providing important information on the health impacts of PFOA in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- College of Food and Bioengineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Food Processing and Safety Education, Luoyang 471000, China
| | - Lei Chen
- College of Food and Bioengineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
| | - Haitao Zhou
- Neurology Department, Luoyang Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Luoyang, China
| | - Jie Wang
- College of Food and Bioengineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
| | - Chunyan Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
| | - Xinyue Pang
- College of Medical Technology and Engineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China.
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30
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Abstract
In recent years, there has been an increased incidence in several of the most common reproductive disorders, including hypospadias and cryptorchidism in newborns, and testicular cancer and lower sperm quality in young adult males. In addition, the timing of puberty has also changed over time. Although the cause of these reproductive effects is a matter of intense debate, a link with the presence of ubiquitous compounds in the environment, or the exposure to specific groups of medications during foetal life, has been suggested. Results from epidemiological and experimental studies, as well as clinical observations in humans indicate that endocrine-disrupting chemicals may be associated with those disorders. In this review, we will summarize the results of epidemiological studies and experimental studies utilising human testicular cells or tissue. Due to increasing public interest and the recently published data, the main focus will be on the effects of prenatal exposure to mild analgesics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan-Bernd Stukenborg
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, 17164 Solna, Sweden.
| | - Rod T Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, and the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Olle Söder
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, 17164 Solna, Sweden.
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Zou C, Yan H, Wen Z, Li C, Zhang S, Ying Y, Pan P, Li Y, Li H, Li X, Wang Y, Zhong Y, Ge RS, Rao D. Perfluorotridecanoic Acid Inhibits Leydig Cell Maturation in Male Rats in Late Puberty via Changing Testicular Lipid Component. Chem Res Toxicol 2021; 34:1542-1555. [PMID: 34081457 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.0c00458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorotridecanoic acid (PFTrDA) is a long-chain (C13) perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acid. Here, we report the influence of PFTrDA exposure on the maturation of rat Leydig cells in late puberty in vivo. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were administered PFTrDA by gavage of 0, 1, 5, and 10 mg/kg/day from 35 days to 56 days postpartum. PFTrDA had no effect on body weight, testis weight, and epididymis weight. It significantly decreased the serum testosterone level after 5 and 10 mg/kg exposure, while it did not alter the serum estradiol level. The serum luteinizing hormone level was markedly reduced after 10 mg/kg PFTrDA exposure, while the follicle-stimulating hormone level was unchanged. Star, Cyp11a1, Cyp17a1, Hsd3b1, and Insl3 transcript levels in the testis were markedly lowered in the 1-5 mg/kg PFTrDA group and the Lhb transcript level in the pituitary in the 10 mg/kg group. CYP11A1 and HSD11B1-positive Leydig cell numbers were markedly reduced after 10 mg/kg PFTrDA exposure. Testicular triglyceride and free fatty acid (palmitic acid, oleic acid, and linoleic acid) levels were significantly reduced by PFTrDA, while Mgll (up-regulation) and Scarb1 and Elovl5 (down-regulation) expression were altered. AKT1 and AMPK phosphorylation was stimulated after 10 PFTrDA mg/kg exposure. In conclusion, PFTrDA delays the maturation of Leydig cells in late puberty mainly by altering the free fatty acid profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Zou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haoni Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zina Wen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China.,Chengdu Xi'nan Gynecological Hospital, Chengdu 610066, Sichuan, China
| | - Changchang Li
- Department of Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Song Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yingfen Ying
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Peipei Pan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huitao Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoheng Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yiyan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ying Zhong
- Chengdu Xi'nan Gynecological Hospital, Chengdu 610066, Sichuan, China
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dapang Rao
- Department of Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, Zhejiang, China
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Bao J, Zhang Y, Zhang L, Wang X. Effects of maternal exposure to PFOA on testes of male offspring mice. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 272:129585. [PMID: 33465609 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.129585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This study was conducted to explore the effects of maternal exposure to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) on testicular development of male offspring mice. 20 pregnant Kunming mice were randomly divided into control group and PFOA exposure group with 10 mice of each. In PFOA exposure group, pregnant mice were given 5 mg/kg BW PFOA daily by gavage during gestation. Male offspring mice were killed to separate serum and collect testis at postpartum day 21, then tested the experimental indicators. The results showed that compared with control group, the content of PFOA in the serum of PFOA-exposed mice increased significantly and testosterone content is significantly reduced. Histological observations revealed architectural damages in testis in PFOA exposed groups and the apoptosis was increased. Transcriptome sequencing results showed that the U4/U6 snRNA coding genes snu13 and prp19 complex coding genes HSP73 were up-regulated and the U5 snRNA coding genes Brr2, Prp8 and EJC/TREX coding THOC genes were down-regulated after PFOA exposure Real-time PCR confirmed this result. These results indicate that the exposure of pregnant mice to perfluorooctanoic acid will have a damaging effect on the development of testes in male offspring mice, which may be due to blocked activation of the shear body, changes in structural functions, and inability to perform shear functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialu Bao
- College of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, 071001, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- College of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, 071001, China
| | - Linchao Zhang
- College of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, 071001, China
| | - Xiaodan Wang
- College of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, 071001, China.
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Environmental Factors-Induced Oxidative Stress: Hormonal and Molecular Pathway Disruptions in Hypogonadism and Erectile Dysfunction. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10060837. [PMID: 34073826 PMCID: PMC8225220 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10060837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypogonadism is an endocrine disorder characterized by inadequate serum testosterone production by the Leydig cells of the testis. It is triggered by alterations in the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is another common disorder in men that involves an alteration in erectile response–organic, relational, or psychological. The incidence of hypogonadism and ED is common in men aged over 40 years. Hypogonadism (including late-onset hypogonadism) and ED may be linked to several environmental factors-induced oxidative stresses. The factors mainly include exposure to pesticides, radiation, air pollution, heavy metals and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals. These environmental risk factors may induce oxidative stress and lead to hormonal dysfunctions. To better understand the subject, the study used many keywords, including “hypogonadism”, “late-onset hypogonadism”, “testosterone”, “erectile dysfunction”, “reactive oxygen species”, “oxidative stress”, and “environmental pollution” in major online databases, such as SCOPUS and PUBMED to extract relevant scientific information. Based on these parameters, this review summarizes a comprehensive insight into the important environmental issues that may have a direct or indirect association with hypogonadism and ED in men. The study concludes that environmental factors-induced oxidative stress may cause infertility in men. The hypothesis and outcomes were reviewed critically, and the mechanistic approaches are applied through oxidant-sensitive pathways. This study also provides reccomendations on future therapeutic interventions and protective measures against such adverse environmental factors-induced hypogonadism and ED.
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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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Wang Z, Zhang T, Wu J, Wei X, Xu A, Wang S, Wang Z. Male reproductive toxicity of perfluorooctanoate (PFOA): Rodent studies. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 270:128608. [PMID: 33081999 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 10/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is an artificial organic substance widely used for decades, which seriously threatens human health. This study aimed to identify human-relevant correlates between PFOA exposure and the male rodent reproductive system. We performed a systematic literature review of the relevant literature of PubMed, Cochrane Library databases, Web of Science and Embase from the establishment to April 2020. Studies included the effects of PFOA on the reproductive system of male rodents. The meta-analysis was performed on the basis of the following points: level of testosterone and estradiol in serum, development of reproductive organs, pathological changes of reproduction organs and parameters of semen. A series of 16 studies was enrolled in this study. The standard mean difference (SMD) for PFOA-related reproductive toxicity was summarised as -0.39 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.71, -0.07). The lower serum testosterone levels, decreased absolute testicular and epididymal weights, higher serum estradiol levels, elevated relative testicular and seminal vesicle weights and increased incidence of Leydig cell adenoma and percentage of abnormal sperm were observed in the exposed group compared with the control group. However, no statistical difference was found in the day of preputial separation of pups and percentage of motile sperm. In conclusion, PFOA exposure heightens the reproductive system damage in male rodents. However, many studies included in the review did not identify mechanisms by which PFOA induces changes to the male reproductive system, which is an area for additional study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyuan Wang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300, Guangzhou Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210029, China
| | - Tongtong Zhang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300, Guangzhou Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210029, China
| | - Jiajin Wu
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300, Guangzhou Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210029, China
| | - Xiyi Wei
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300, Guangzhou Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210029, China
| | - Aiming Xu
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300, Guangzhou Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210029, China.
| | - Shangqian Wang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300, Guangzhou Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210029, China.
| | - Zengjun Wang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300, Guangzhou Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, 210029, China.
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Tarapore P, Ouyang B. Perfluoroalkyl Chemicals and Male Reproductive Health: Do PFOA and PFOS Increase Risk for Male Infertility? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18073794. [PMID: 33916482 PMCID: PMC8038605 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18073794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are manmade synthetic chemicals which have been in existence for over 70 years. Though they are currently being phased out, their persistence in the environment is widespread. There is increasing evidence linking PFAS exposure to health effects, an issue of concern since PFAS such as perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) bioaccumulate in humans, with a half-life of years. Many epidemiological studies suggest that, worldwide, semen quality has decreased over the past several decades. One of the most worrying effects of PFOS and PFOA is their associations with lower testosterone levels, similar to clinical observations in infertile men. This review thus focuses on PFOS/PFOA-associated effects on male reproductive health. The sources of PFAS in drinking water are listed. The current epidemiological studies linking increased exposure to PFAS with lowered testosterone and semen quality, and evidence from rodent studies supporting their function as endocrine disruptors on the reproductive system, exhibiting non-monotonic dose responses, are noted. Finally, their mechanisms of action and possible toxic effects on the Leydig, Sertoli, and germ cells are discussed. Future research efforts must consider utilizing better human model systems for exposure, using more accurate PFAS exposure susceptibility windows, and improvements in statistical modeling of data to account for the endocrine disruptor properties of PFAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pheruza Tarapore
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA;
- Center of Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
- Cincinnati Cancer Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +1-513-558-5148
| | - Bin Ouyang
- Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA;
- Center of Environmental Genetics, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
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Abudayyak M, Öztaş E, Özhan G. Assessment of perfluorooctanoic acid toxicity in pancreatic cells. Toxicol In Vitro 2021; 72:105077. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2021.105077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Olivier E, Wakx A, Fouyet S, Dutot M, Rat P. JEG-3 placental cells in toxicology studies: a promising tool to reveal pregnancy disorders. Anat Cell Biol 2021; 54:83-92. [PMID: 33281121 PMCID: PMC8017447 DOI: 10.5115/acb.20.234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Placental alterations are responsible for adverse pregnancy outcomes like preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction. And yet, placenta toxicology has not become a fully-fledged toxicology field. Because placenta is very often seen only as a barrier between the mother and the fetus, there is a lack and therefore a need for an experimental human model with technical recommendations to study placenta toxicology. In vitro approaches are recommended in experimental toxicology as they focus on a specific biological process and yield high-throughput screening methods. In the present study, we first established incubation conditions to preserve signatures of the human JEG-3 cell line identity while enabling toxicity detection. JEG-3 cells prepared in our incubation conditions were renamed JEG-Tox cells. As placental alterations are mainly triggered by uncontrolled apoptosis, we second used known apoptotic agents pregnant women are exposed to, to check that JEG-Tox cells can trigger apoptosis. Ethanol, bisphenol F, quinalphos, 4,4'-DDT, benzalkonium chloride, phenoxyethanol, propylparaben, and perfluorooctanic acid all induced chromatin condensation in JEG-Tox cells. Our incubation conditions allow JEG-Tox cells to keep placental cell identity and to respond to toxic chemicals. JEG-Tox cells are a pertinent model for placenta toxicology and could be used to better understand pregnancy alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elodie Olivier
- UMR CNRS 8038 CiTCoM, Laboratoire de Chimie-Toxicologie Analytique et Cellulaire, Université de Paris, Faculté de Pharmacie de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Anaïs Wakx
- UMR CNRS 8038 CiTCoM, Laboratoire de Chimie-Toxicologie Analytique et Cellulaire, Université de Paris, Faculté de Pharmacie de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Sophie Fouyet
- UMR CNRS 8038 CiTCoM, Laboratoire de Chimie-Toxicologie Analytique et Cellulaire, Université de Paris, Faculté de Pharmacie de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Mélody Dutot
- UMR CNRS 8038 CiTCoM, Laboratoire de Chimie-Toxicologie Analytique et Cellulaire, Université de Paris, Faculté de Pharmacie de Paris, Paris, France.,Recherche & Développement, YSLAB, Quimper, France
| | - Patrice Rat
- UMR CNRS 8038 CiTCoM, Laboratoire de Chimie-Toxicologie Analytique et Cellulaire, Université de Paris, Faculté de Pharmacie de Paris, Paris, France
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Owumi SE, Akomolafe AP, Imosemi IO, Odunola OA, Oyelere AK. N-acetyl cysteine co-treatment abates perfluorooctanoic acid-induced reproductive toxicity in male rats. Andrologia 2021; 53:e14037. [PMID: 33724529 DOI: 10.1111/and.14037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid is a synthetic perfluoroalkyl-persistent in the environment and toxic to humans. N-acetylcysteine is a pro-drug of both amino acid l-cysteine and glutathione-a non-enzymatic antioxidant. N-acetylcysteine serves as an antidote for paracetamol poisoning and alleviates cellular oxidative and inflammatory stressors. We investigated N-acetylcysteine role against reproductive toxicity in male Wistar rats (weight: 140-220 g; 10 weeks old) posed by perfluorooctanoic acid exposure. Randomised rat cohorts were dosed both with perfluorooctanoic acid (5 mg/kg; p.o) or co-dosed with N-acetylcysteine (25 and 50 mg/kg p.o) for 28 days. Sperm physiognomies, biomarkers of testicular function and reproductive hormones, oxidative stress and inflammation were evaluated. Co-treatment with N-acetylcysteine significantly (p < .05) reversed perfluorooctanoic acid-mediated decreases in reproductive enzyme activities, and adverse effect on testosterone, luteinising and follicle-stimulating hormone concentrations. N-acetylcysteine treatment alone, improved sperm motility, count and viability, and reduced total sperm abnormalities. Co-treatment with N-acetylcysteine mitigated perfluorooctanoic acid-induced alterations in sperm function parameters. N-acetylcysteine abated (p < .05) perfluorooctanoic acid-induced oxidative stress in experimental rats testes and epididymis, and generally improved antioxidant enzyme activities and cellular thiol levels. Furthermore, N-acetylcysteine suppressed inflammatory responses and remedied perfluorooctanoic acid-mediated histological injuries in rat. Cooperatively, N-acetylcysteine enhanced reproductive function in perfluorooctanoic acid dosed rats, by lessening oxidative and nitrative stressors and mitigated inflammatory responses in the examined organ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomon E Owumi
- Change-Lab, CRMB Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Ayomide P Akomolafe
- Change-Lab, CRMB Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Innocent O Imosemi
- Neuroanatomy Research Laboratories, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Oyeronke A Odunola
- Change-Lab, CRMB Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Adegboyega K Oyelere
- School of Biochemistry and Chemistry, Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Yan H, Li C, Zou C, Xin X, Li X, Li H, Li Y, Li Z, Wang Y, Chen H, Ge RS. Perfluoroundecanoic acid inhibits Leydig cell development in pubertal male rats via inducing oxidative stress and autophagy. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2021; 415:115440. [PMID: 33549592 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2021.115440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUnA) is one of long-chain perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids. However, the effect of PFUnA on pubertal development of Leydig cells remains unclear. The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of PFUnA on Leydig cell development in pubertal male rats. We orally dosed male Sprague-Dawley rats (age 35 days) with PFUnA at doses of 0, 1, 5, and 10 mg/kg/day from postnatal day (PND) 35 to PND 56. Serum testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels were remarkably reduced by PFUnA at ≥1 mg/kg while serum follicle-stimulating hormone levels were lowered at 5 and 10 mg/kg. PFUnA down-regulated the expression of Lhcgr, Scarb1, Star, Cyp11a1, Hsd3b1, Cyp17a1, Hsd17b3, Hsd11b1, Insl3, Nr5a1, Fshr, Dhh, Sod1, and Sod2 and their proteins in the testis and the expression of Lhb and Fshb in the pituitary. PFUnA reduced Leydig cell number at 5 and 10 mg/kg. PFUnA induced oxidative stress and increased autophagy. These may result from the inhibition of phosphorylation of mTOR, AKT1, AKT2, and ERK1/2 in the testis. In conclusion, PFUnA exhibits inhibitory effects on pubertal Leydig cell development possibly via inducing oxidative stress and increasing autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoni Yan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Changchang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Cheng Zou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiu Xin
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoheng Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huitao Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zengqiang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yiyan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haolin Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Xie X, Weng X, Liu S, Chen J, Guo X, Gao X, Fei Q, Hao G, Jing C, Feng L. Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl substance exposure and association with sex hormone concentrations: Results from the NHANES 2015-2016. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES EUROPE 2021; 33:69. [PMID: 36061407 PMCID: PMC9440377 DOI: 10.1186/s12302-021-00508-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is increasing global concern regarding the health impacts of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are emerging environmental endocrine disruptors. Results from previous epidemiological studies on the associations between PFAS exposure and sex hormone levels are inconsistent. OBJECTIVE We examined the associations between serum PFAS compounds (PFDeA, PFHxS, PFNA, PFOA, PFOS) and sex hormones, including total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), estrogen (E), and serum hormone binding globulin (SHBG). RESULTS After adjusting for potential confounders, PFDeA, PFOS, and PFHxS exposures were significantly associated with increased serum testosterone concentrations in males. PFDeA, PFOA, and PFOS exposures were positively correlated with FT levels in 20-49 years old women while PFOS exposure was negatively associated with TT levels in 12-19 years old girls. PFAS exposure was negatively associated with estradiol levels including: PFDeA in all females, PFHxS, PFNA, PFOS, and PFOA in 12-19 years old girls, PFNA in women above 50 years old, and PFOA in 12-19 years old boys while PFDeA and PFOS exposures were positively associated with estradiol levels in these boys. n-PFOS exposure was positively associated with SHBG levels in men older than 20 and in all females. CONCLUSIONS Using a large cohort of males and females aged from 12-80, we found that PFAS exposure appears to disrupt sex hormones in a gender-, age-, and compound-specific manner. Future work is warranted to clarify the causality and mechanisms involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xie
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Xueqiong Weng
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Shan Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Jingmin Chen
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinrong Guo
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinyu Gao
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Qiaoyuan Fei
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Guang Hao
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Chunxia Jing
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, No.601 Huangpu Ave West, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Liping Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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Yin J, Jian Z, Zhu G, Yu X, Pu Y, Yin L, Wang D, Bu Y, Liu R. Male reproductive toxicity involved in spermatogenesis induced by perfluorooctane sulfonate and perfluorooctanoic acid in Caenorhabditis elegans. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:1443-1453. [PMID: 32839910 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-10530-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
As a persistent organic pollutant, perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) have gained increasing research attention over recent years because of their potential risk to humans and the environment. In this paper, we investigated the reproductive toxicity of these pollutants using a C. elegans model to evaluate spermatogenesis throughout the entire developmental cycle of him-5 mutant by exposing to 0.001, 0.01, and 0.1 mmol/L PFOS or PFOA for 48 h. Experimental results suggested that PFOS and PFOA exposure led to reductions in brood size, germ cell number, spermatid size, and motility, and increases in rate of malformation spermatids. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that exposure to PFOS resulted in higher levels of damage than PFOA in germ cells only in 0.001 mmol/L exposure group. RT-qPCR was used to further investigate the expression of genes associated with different stages of spermatogenesis, such as mitosis and meiosis, fibrous body-membranous organelles (FB-MOs), and sperm activation. The expression levels of wee-1.3, spe-4, spe-6, and spe-17 genes were increased, while those of puf-8, spe-10, fer-1, swm-1, try-5, and spe-15 genes were decreased. Our results suggesting that PFOS or PFOA may cause spermatogenesis damage by disrupting the mitotic proliferation, meiotic entry, formation of the MOs, fusion of the MOs and plasma membrane (PM), and pseudopods. Loss-of-function studies using puf-8 and spe-10 mutants revealed spe-10 gene was specifically involved in PFOS- or PFOA-induced reproductive toxicity via regulating one or more critical palmitoylation events, while puf-8 gene was not direct target of PFOS and PFOA, and PFOS and PFOA may act on the upstream gene of puf-8, thus affecting reproductive ability. Taken together, these results demonstrate the potential adverse impact of PFOS and PFOA exposure on spermatogenesis and provide valuable data for PFC risk assessment. Grapical abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiechen Yin
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Nanjing Institute of Environmental Science, Key Laboratory of Pesticide Environmental Assessment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Nanjing, 210042, China
| | - Zihai Jian
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Guangcan Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Energy and Environment, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Xiaojin Yu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yuepu Pu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Lihong Yin
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Dayong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yuanqing Bu
- Nanjing Institute of Environmental Science, Key Laboratory of Pesticide Environmental Assessment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Nanjing, 210042, China
| | - Ran Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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Lin T, Zhang Y, Ding X, Huang T, Zhang W, Zou W, Kuang H, Yang B, Wu L, Zhang D. Perfluorooctanoic acid induces cytotoxicity in spermatogonial GC-1 cells. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 260:127545. [PMID: 32653749 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.127545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctane acid (PFOA), a typical perfluorinated chemical, has been suggested to interfere with male reproductive function. In this study, mouse spermatogonial GC-1 cells were in vitro treated with PFOA (250, 500 or 750 μM) for 24 h to investigate the cytotoxicity of PFOA and its underlying mechanisms. Our results indicated that exposure to intermediate and high doses of PFOA suppressed the viability of GC-1 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, PFOA treatment markedly enhanced the generation of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde, with diminished activity of superoxide dismutase. Particularly, PFOA exposure evoked a decline in mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP production. Furthermore, the apoptotic index and caspase-3 activity were significantly elevated after treatment with PFOA. In addition, PFOA incubation caused an increase in LC3B-II/LC3B-I ratio. Meanwhile, PFOA resulted in an excessive accumulation of autophagosomes in the cytoplasm. Taken together, exposure to PFOA can elicit cytotoxicity to spermatogonial GC-1 cells in vitro, which may be link to the mitochondrial oxidative damage and induction of apoptosis and autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Lin
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China
| | - Yurong Zhang
- Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China
| | - Xinbao Ding
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Tao Huang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China
| | - Wenjuan Zhang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China
| | - Weiying Zou
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China
| | - Haibin Kuang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China
| | - Bei Yang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China
| | - Lei Wu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China
| | - Dalei Zhang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China.
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Li Z, Li C, Wen Z, Yan H, Zou C, Li Y, Tian L, Lei Z, Li H, Wang Y, Zhong Y, Ge RS. Perfluoroheptanoic acid induces Leydig cell hyperplasia but inhibits spermatogenesis in rats after pubertal exposure. Toxicology 2020; 448:152633. [PMID: 33220336 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2020.152633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA) is a short-chain alternative to long-chain perfluoroalkyl substances, which have been reported to possess reproductive toxicity. However, it is unclear whether PFHpA affects Leydig cell development during puberty. The 35-day-old Sprague Dawley male rats were exposed to PFHpA by gavage with 0 (corn oil), 10, 50, and 100 mg/kg/day for 21 days. PFHpA did not affect the body weight of rats, but it reduced testis weight, relative testis weight, and epididymis weight at 100 mg/kg. It significantly increased serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone levels at a dose of 100 mg/kg without affecting serum estradiol levels. PFHpA suppressed sperm production at a dose of 100 mg/kg. PFHpA induced Leydig cell hyperplasia (increased number of CYP11A1-positive Leydig cells) at a dose of 100 mg/kg, but down-regulated the expression of Cyp11a1, Hsd3b1, and Cyp17a1 in individual Leydig cell pe se and up-regulated the expression of Fshr in the Sertoli cell pe se. PFHpA did not affect the number of HSD11B1 (a biomarker for more mature Leydig cells) positive Leydig cells and SOX9 positive Sertoli cells. PFHpA increased BCL2, and the phosphorylation of AKT1, AKT2, ERK1/2, and JNK, but decreased BAX levels. However, it had no effect on SIRT1 and PGC-1α levels. In conclusion, PFHpA induces Leydig cell hyperplasia due to the increase in the secretion of luteinizing hormone through negative feedback after down-regulating the expression of steroidogenic enzymes and inhibiting testosterone production in individual Leydig cells. This proliferation may be mediated by increasing BCL2 and phosphorylation of AKT, ERK1/2, and JNK, and decreasing BAX level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zengqiang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Changchang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Zina Wen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Chengdu Xi'nan Gynecological Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Haoni Yan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Cheng Zou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Lili Tian
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Zhen Lei
- Chengdu Xi'nan Gynecological Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Huitao Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Yiyan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Ying Zhong
- Chengdu Xi'nan Gynecological Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China.
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45
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Liu F, Hua L, Zhang W. Influences of microwave irradiation on performances of membrane filtration and catalytic degradation of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 143:105969. [PMID: 32702597 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2020] [Revised: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA), one of the common per- and poly fluorinated alkylated substances (PFASs), is increasingly detected in the environment due to the diverse industrial applications and high resistance to degradation processes. This study evaluated degradation of PFOA in microwave-assistant catalytic membrane filtration, a process that integrates microwave catalytic reactions into a ceramic membrane filtration. First, water permeation of the pristine and catalyst-coated membranes were examined under the influence of microwave irradiation to analyse the impacts of the coating layer and water temperature increase on permeate flux, which were well interpreted by the Carman-Kozeny and Hagen-Posieulle (non-slipping and slit-like) models. Then, the PFOA removal was first assessed in a continuous filtration mode with and without microwave irradiation. Our results show that PFOA first adsorbed on membrane and catalyst materials, and then fully penetrated the membrane filter after reaching adsorption equilibrium. Under microwave irradiation (7.2 W·cm-2), approximate 65.9% of PFOA (25 μg·L-1) in the feed solution was degraded within a hydraulic time of 2 min (at the permeate flow rate of 43 LMH) due to the microwave-Fenton like reactions. In addition, low flow rates and moderate catalyst coating densities are critical for optimizing PFOA removal. Finally, potential degradation mechanisms of PFOA were proposed through the analysis of degradation by-products (e.g., PFPeA). The findings may provide new insight into the development of reactive membrane-enabled systems for destruction of refractory PFAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangzhou Liu
- John A. Reif, Jr. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, 323 Martin Luther King Blvd., Newark, NJ 07102, United States
| | - Likun Hua
- John A. Reif, Jr. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, 323 Martin Luther King Blvd., Newark, NJ 07102, United States; BRISEA Group Inc., 239 New Road, Bldg. A Suite 315, Parsippany, NJ 07054, United States
| | - Wen Zhang
- John A. Reif, Jr. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, 323 Martin Luther King Blvd., Newark, NJ 07102, United States.
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Zhu Q, Li H, Wen Z, Wang Y, Li X, Huang T, Mo J, Wu Y, Zhong Y, Ge RS. Perfluoroalkyl substances cause Leydig cell dysfunction as endocrine disruptors. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 253:126764. [PMID: 32464778 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.126764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a group of man-made organic substances. Some of PFASs have been classified as persistent organic pollutants and endocrine disruptors. They might interfere with the male sex endocrine system, causing the abnormal development of the male reproductive tract and failure of pubertal onset and infertility. The present review discusses the development and function of two generations of Leydig cells in rodents and the effects of PFASs on Leydig cell development after their exposure in gestational and postnatal periods. We also discuss human epidemiological data for the effects of PFASs on male sex hormone levels. The structure-activity relationship of PFASs on Leydig cell steroidogenesis and enzyme activities are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiqi Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huitao Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zina Wen
- Chengdu Xi'nan Gynecological Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yiyang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoheng Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tongliang Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiaying Mo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ying Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ying Zhong
- Chengdu Xi'nan Gynecological Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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