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Fletcher EJ, Stubblefield WS, Huff J, Santacruz-Márquez R, Laws M, Brehm E, Flaws JA. Prenatal exposure to an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture alters serum cytokine levels and inflammatory markers in the F1 mouse ovary. Toxicol Sci 2024; 201:26-37. [PMID: 38954831 PMCID: PMC11347776 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfae084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Phthalates are used as plasticizers and solvents in consumer products. Virtually 100% of the US population has measurable exposure levels to phthalates, however, the mechanisms by which prenatal exposure to phthalate mixtures affects reproductive health in the offspring remain unclear. Thus, this study tested the hypothesis that prenatal exposure to an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture promotes inflammation in F1 ovarian tissue. Pregnant CD-1 dams were dosed orally with vehicle control (corn oil) or phthalate mixture (20 μg/kg/d, 200 μg/kg/d, 200 mg/kg/d, 500 mg/kg/d). Pregnant dams delivered pups naturally and ovaries and sera from the F1 females were collected at postnatal day (PND) 21, PND 60, 3 mo, and 6 mo. Sera were used to measure levels of C-reactive protein (CRP). Ovaries and sera were used for cytokine array analysis. RNA was isolated from F1 ovaries and used to quantify expression of selected cytokine genes. Prenatal exposure to the mixture significantly increased the levels of CRP at 200 µg/kg/d on PND 21 compared with controls. The mixture altered 6 immune factors in sera at PND 21 and 33 immune factors in the ovary and sera at 6 mo compared with controls. The mixture increased ovarian expression of cytokines at PND 21 and decreased ovarian expression of cytokines at 6 mo compared with controls. These data suggest that prenatal exposure to a phthalate mixture interferes with the immune response in F1 female mice long after initial exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Endia J Fletcher
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, United States
| | - Winter S Stubblefield
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, United States
| | - Justin Huff
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, United States
| | - Ramsés Santacruz-Márquez
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, United States
| | - Mary Laws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, United States
| | - Emily Brehm
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, United States
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, United States
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El Fouikar S, Van Acker N, Héliès V, Frenois FX, Giton F, Gayrard V, Dauwe Y, Mselli-Lakhal L, Rousseau-Ralliard D, Fournier N, Léandri R, Gatimel N. Folliculogenesis and steroidogenesis alterations after chronic exposure to a human-relevant mixture of environmental toxicants spare the ovarian reserve in the rabbit model. J Ovarian Res 2024; 17:134. [PMID: 38943138 PMCID: PMC11214233 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-024-01457-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Industrial progress has led to the omnipresence of chemicals in the environment of the general population, including reproductive-aged and pregnant women. The reproductive function of females is a well-known target of endocrine-disrupting chemicals. This function holds biological processes that are decisive for the fertility of women themselves and for the health of future generations. However, insufficient research has evaluated the risk of combined mixtures on this function. This study aimed to assess the direct impacts of a realistic exposure to eight combined environmental toxicants on the critical process of folliculogenesis. METHODS Female rabbits were exposed daily and orally to either a mixture of eight environmental toxicants (F group) or the solvent mixture (NE group, control) from 2 to 19 weeks of age. The doses were computed from previous toxicokinetic data to reproduce steady-state serum concentrations in rabbits in the range of those encountered in pregnant women. Ovarian function was evaluated through macroscopic and histological analysis of the ovaries, serum hormonal assays and analysis of the expression of steroidogenic enzymes. Cellular dynamics in the ovary were further investigated with Ki67 staining and TUNEL assays. RESULTS F rabbits grew similarly as NE rabbits but exhibited higher total and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels in adulthood. They also presented a significantly elevated serum testosterone concentrations, while estradiol, progesterone, AMH and DHEA levels remained unaffected. The measurement of gonadotropins, androstenedione, pregnenolone and estrone levels yielded values below the limit of quantification. Among the 7 steroidogenic enzymes tested, an isolated higher expression of Cyp19a1 was measured in F rabbits ovaries. Those ovaries presented a significantly greater density/number of antral and atretic follicles and larger antral follicles without any changes in cellular proliferation or DNA fragmentation. No difference was found regarding the count of other follicle stages notably the primordial stage, the corpora lutea or AMH serum levels. CONCLUSION Folliculogenesis and steroidogenesis seem to be subtly altered by exposure to a human-like mixture of environmental toxicants. The antral follicle growth appears promoted by the mixture of chemicals both in their number and size, potentially explaining the increase in atretic antral follicles. Reassuringly, the ovarian reserve estimated through primordial follicles number/density and AMH is spared from any alteration. The consequences of these changes on fertility and progeny health have yet to be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara El Fouikar
- ToxAlim (Research Center in Food Toxicology), Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, INP-Purpan, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Nathalie Van Acker
- Plateforme Imag'IN, Service d'anatomopathologie, CHU Toulouse, Institut Universitaire du Cancer-Oncopole de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Virginie Héliès
- GenPhySE (Génétique Physiologie et Système d'Elevage), INRAE, Université de Toulouse, INPT, ENVT, Castanet-Tolosan, France
| | - François-Xavier Frenois
- Plateforme Imag'IN, Service d'anatomopathologie, CHU Toulouse, Institut Universitaire du Cancer-Oncopole de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Frank Giton
- Pôle Biologie-Pathologie Henri Mondor, AP-HP, Inserm IMRB U955, Créteil, France
| | - Véronique Gayrard
- ToxAlim (Research Center in Food Toxicology), Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, INP-Purpan, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Yannick Dauwe
- ToxAlim (Research Center in Food Toxicology), Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, INP-Purpan, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Laila Mselli-Lakhal
- ToxAlim (Research Center in Food Toxicology), Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, INP-Purpan, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Delphine Rousseau-Ralliard
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, Jouy-en-Josas, 78350, BREED, France
- Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, Maisons-Alfort, 94700, France
| | - Natalie Fournier
- Athérosclérose et macrophages: impact des phospholipides et des fonctions mitochondriales sur l'efflux du cholestérol, Lip(Sys) Université Paris Saclay, UFR de Pharmacie, Orsay, EA, 7357, 91400, France
- Laboratoire de Biochimie, AP-HP (Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris), Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Paris, 75015, France
| | - Roger Léandri
- ToxAlim (Research Center in Food Toxicology), Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, INP-Purpan, UPS, Toulouse, France.
- Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Paule de Viguier, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Toulouse, France.
| | - Nicolas Gatimel
- Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Paule de Viguier, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
- DEFE (Développement Embryonnaire, Fertilité et Environnement) UMR1203 Inserm, Universités Toulouse et Montpellier, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
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Aquino AM, Fioretto MN, Alonso-Costa LG, Rocha VA, Souza PV, Magosso N, Barbisan LF, Justulin LA, Flaws JA, Scarano WR. In silico investigation of the role of miRNAs in a possible developmental origin of prostate cancer in F1 and F2 offspring of mothers exposed to a phthalate mixture. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2024; 39:3523-3536. [PMID: 38465474 DOI: 10.1002/tox.24181] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
A previous study using miRNA sequencing revealed that exposure to a mixture of phthalates during pregnancy and lactation dysregulated rno-miR-184 and rno-miR-141-3p in the ventral prostate (VP) of offspring. Here, rno-miR-184 and rno-miR-141-3 expressions were obtained by RT-qPCR in the VP of F1 males as well as in F2 offspring, aiming to establish a relationship with possible oncogenic targets through in silico analyses with multigenerational approach. Additionally, some targets were measured by western blots to highlight a possible relationship between the deregulated miRNAs and some of their targets. VP samples from rats exposed to a mixture of phthalates maternally during pregnancy and lactation (GD10 to PND21-F1) and VP from offspring (F2) were examined. The phthalate mixture at both concentrations (20 μg and 200 mg/kg/day) increased the expression of both miRNAs in the F1 (PND22 and 120) and F2 (descendants of F1-treated males) prostate. Target prediction analysis revealed that both microRNAs are responsible for modulating the expression and synthesis of 40 common targets. A phthalate target association analysis and the HPA database showed an interesting relationship among these possible miRNAs modulated targets with prostate adenocarcinoma and other oncogenic processes. Western blots showed alteration in P63, P53, WNT5, and STAT3 expression, which are targeted by the miRNAs, in the VP of F1/F2 males. The data draw attention to the epigenetic modulation in the prostate of descendants exposed to phthalates and adds to one of the few currently found in the literature to point to microRNAs signature as biomarkers of exposure to plasticizers.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Aquino
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M N Fioretto
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - L G Alonso-Costa
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - V A Rocha
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - P V Souza
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - N Magosso
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - L F Barbisan
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - L A Justulin
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - J A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - W R Scarano
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
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Opoku F, Flaws JA, Zelikoff JT. Reproductive effects associated with phthalate mixture exposure. Explore (NY) 2024; 20:460-461. [PMID: 38423834 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2024.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, IL, United States
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Pan J, Liu P, Yu X, Zhang Z, Liu J. The adverse role of endocrine disrupting chemicals in the reproductive system. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 14:1324993. [PMID: 38303976 PMCID: PMC10832042 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1324993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Reproductive system diseases pose prominent threats to human physical and mental well-being. Besides being influenced by genetic material regulation and changes in lifestyle, the occurrence of these diseases is closely connected to exposure to harmful substances in the environment. Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), characterized by hormone-like effects, have a wide range of influences on the reproductive system. EDCs are ubiquitous in the natural environment and are present in a wide range of industrial and everyday products. Currently, thousands of chemicals have been reported to exhibit endocrine effects, and this number is likely to increase as the testing for potential EDCs has not been consistently required, and obtaining data has been limited, partly due to the long latency of many diseases. The ability to avoid exposure to EDCs, especially those of artificially synthesized origin, is increasingly challenging. While EDCs can be divided into persistent and non-persistent depending on their degree of degradation, due to the recent uptick in research studies in this area, we have chosen to focus on the research pertaining to the detrimental effects on reproductive health of exposure to several EDCs that are widely encountered in daily life over the past six years, specifically bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates (PAEs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), parabens, pesticides, heavy metals, and so on. By focusing on the impact of EDCs on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which leads to the occurrence and development of reproductive system diseases, this review aims to provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of EDCs' damage to human health and to encourage further in-depth research to clarify the potentially harmful effects of EDC exposure through various other mechanisms. Ultimately, it offers a scientific basis to enhance EDCs risk management, an endeavor of significant scientific and societal importance for safeguarding reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Pan
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Pengfei Liu
- Gynecology Department, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiao Yu
- Gynecology Department, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhongming Zhang
- Zhang Zhongjing College of Chinese Medicine, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Nanyang, Henan, China
| | - Jinxing Liu
- Gynecology Department, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Safar AM, Santacruz-Márquez R, Laws MJ, Meling DD, Liu Z, Kumar TR, Nowak RA, Raetzman LT, Flaws JA. Dietary exposure to an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture alters follicle dynamics, hormone levels, ovarian gene expression, and pituitary gene expression in female mice. Reprod Toxicol 2023; 122:108489. [PMID: 37839492 PMCID: PMC10873030 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Phthalates are chemicals ubiquitously used in industry. Individual phthalates have been found to adversely affect female reproduction; however, humans are exposed to a mixture of phthalates daily, primarily through ingestion. Previous studies show that exposure to an environmentally relevant mixture of phthalates (Mix) can affect female reproduction. Little research, however, has been conducted on the effects of short-term (1 month) and long-term (6 months) exposure to Mix on ovarian functions. Thus, this study tested the hypothesis that short-term and long-term exposure to Mix alters ovarian folliculogenesis, serum hormone concentrations, pituitary gene expression, and ovarian expression of genes involved in steroidogenesis, apoptosis, cell cycle regulation, and oxidative stress. Adult CD-1 female mice were exposed to vehicle control (corn oil) or Mix (0.15-1500 ppm) in the chow for 1 or 6 months. Exposure to Mix for 1 month increased the number of atretic follicles (0.15 ppm), altered ovarian gene expression (0.15 ppm, 1500 ppm), and decreased serum testosterone (1.5 ppm) compared to control. Exposure to Mix for 6 months increased serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) (0.15 ppm), decreased serum luteinizing hormone (LH) (0.15 ppm, 1.5 ppm, and 1500 ppm), decreased serum estradiol (1500 ppm), altered pituitary gene expression (1500 ppm), increased the number (1500 ppm) and percentage (1.5 ppm and 1500 ppm) of primordial follicles, and decreased the percentage of preantral (1500 ppm) and antral (1.5 ppm and 1500 ppm) follicles compared to control. These data indicate that exposure to Mix can alter folliculogenesis, steroidogenesis, and gene expression in female mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adira M Safar
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | | | - Mary J Laws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Daryl D Meling
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Zhenghui Liu
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - T Rajendra Kumar
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Romana A Nowak
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Lori T Raetzman
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
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7
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Xiao Z, Li Q, Wang Z, Zhang H. Single- and combined-phthalate exposures are associated with biological ageing among adults. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 268:115715. [PMID: 37992641 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115715] [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: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research has emphasized the effects of lifestyle and genetics on ageing. However, the association between exposure to phthalates, which are extensively used in cosmetics and personal care products, and ageing is still unclear. METHOD Data for 4711 subjects from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2005 to 2010 were incorporated in the present study. The acceleration of the Klemera-Doubal method-biological age (KDM-BA) and phenotypic Age (PhenoAge) were measured by the composite of 13 biomarkers. Multiple-linear and weighted-quantile sum (WQS) regression models were constructed to explore the relationships of single- and combined-phthalate exposures, as indicated by urinary phthalate metabolites, with KDM-BA and PhenoAge. A generalized additive model (GAM) was fitted to explore the potential nonlinear relationships among the above variables. RESULTS Except for mono-(carboxynonyl), all urinary phthalate metabolites were associated with biological ageing, with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.241 to 0.526; however, mono-ethyl presented a negative correlation. The WQS models revealed mixed effects of combined urinary phthalate metabolites on ageing, with a 0.22-year ((95 % CI) 0.09, 0.32) increase in KDM-BA acceleration and a 0.27-year ((95 % CI) 0.13, 0.37) increase in PhenoAge acceleration for each decile increase in urinary phthalate metabolites. Moreover, MCPP, MEOHP, and MBzP seemed to be the top three phthalates in terms of biological ageing, with weights of 33.3 % and 32.2 %, 29.2 % and 17.2 %, and 21.5 % and 30.1 % in KDM-BA and PhenoAge acceleration, respectively. CONCLUSION Single-phthalate exposure was mostly associated with the ageing process, and combined-phthalate exposure presented mixed effects on biological ageing, emphasizing phthalate exposure as a significant risk factor for ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihao Xiao
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, China
| | - Qian Li
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, China
| | - Zhiqi Wang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210008, China.
| | - Hongmei Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210008, China.
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Yao W, Liu C, Qin DY, Yuan XQ, Yao QY, Li NJ, Huang Y, Rao WT, Li YY, Deng YL, Zeng Q, Li YF. Associations between Phthalate Metabolite Concentrations in Follicular Fluid and Reproductive Outcomes among Women Undergoing in Vitro Fertilization/Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection Treatment. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2023; 131:127019. [PMID: 38150316 PMCID: PMC10752415 DOI: 10.1289/ehp11998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phthalates have been reported to impair fertility in various studies. However, evidence exploring the associations between phthalate metabolites in follicular fluid (FF) and reproductive outcomes is lacking. OBJECTIVES To investigate the associations between phthalate metabolite concentrations in FF and in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) outcomes among women recruited from a fertility clinic. METHODS We included 641 women undergoing IVF/ICSI treatment from December 2018 to January 2020. The levels of eight phthalate metabolites, including monoethyl phthalate (MEP), mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP), mono-n -butyl phthalate (MBP), monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP), mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), mono(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (MEHHP), mono(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate (MEOHP), and mono(2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl) phthalate (MECPP), were quantified in FF collected on the oocyte retrieval day. Associations between quartiles of individual phthalate metabolite concentrations and nine IVF/ICSI outcomes, including oocyte yield, mature oocyte number, two distinct pronuclei (2PN) zygote number, fertilization rate, blastocyst formation rate, implantation, clinical pregnancy, miscarriage, and live birth, were estimated with generalized linear models. The effects of phthalate mixtures on IVF/ICSI outcomes were assessed using Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) models. RESULTS After adjusting for relevant confounders, elevated quartiles of MBzP, MEHHP, and MEHP in FF were inversely associated with the numbers of retrieved oocytes, mature oocytes, and 2PN zygotes (all p for trends < 0.10 ). In comparison with the lowest quartile, the highest quartile of molar sum of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate metabolites (Σ DEHP ) was associated with a reduction of 9.1% [95% confidence interval (CI): - 17.1 % , - 0.37 % ] and 10.3% (95% CI: - 18.8 % , - 0.94 % ) in yielded oocyte and mature oocyte numbers, respectively. Furthermore, the BKMR models revealed inverse associations between phthalate mixtures and the numbers of retrieved oocytes and mature oocytes. We generally found null results for implantation, clinical pregnancy, miscarriage, and live birth. DISCUSSION Certain phthalate metabolites in FF are inversely associated with the numbers of retrieved oocytes, mature oocytes, and 2PN zygotes among women undergoing IVF/ICSI treatment. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP11998.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Yao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Chong Liu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan-Yu Qin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Xiao-Qiong Yuan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Qing-Yun Yao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Ni-Jie Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yong Huang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Wen-Tao Rao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yu-Ying Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yan-Ling Deng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Qiang Zeng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yu-Feng Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
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Cascajosa-Lira A, Guzmán-Guillén R, Arjona AB, Aguinaga-Casañas MA, Ayala-Soldado N, Moyano-Salvago MR, Molina A, Jos Á, Cameán AM, Pichardo S. Risk assessment and environmental consequences of the use of the Allium-derived compound propyl-propane thiosulfonate (PTSO) in agrifood applications. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 236:116682. [PMID: 37459943 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
The organosulfur compound propyl-propane thiosulfonate (PTSO), mainly found in Allium cepa, has a promising use in the agrifood industry. To confirm its safety for livestock, consumers, and environment, toxicological assessment is needed. In this regard, endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are in the spotlight of research. Therefore, as part of the risk assessment of PTSO, in the present work, an in vivo study was performed in mice exposed to PTSO to investigate its potential reproductive toxicity considering fertility, genetic and endocrine endpoints. Five-weeks-old CD1 mice (80 males, 80 females) were exposed for 11 or 16 weeks (males or females, respectively) to different doses of PTSO (0, 14, 28 and 55 mg PTSO/kg b.w./day; 20 animals per group and sex) through the food pellets. No clinical observations or mortality and no changes in absolute organ weights and relative organ weights/body weight or brain ratios occurred during the study. The estrous cycle did not undergo any significant toxicologically relevant change. Most of the sex hormones displayed normal values. Some alterations in the expression of some genes related to reproduction is only observed in females, but they do not appear to have consequences in the development of sex organs. Docking results showed the impossibility of stable binding to estrogen and androgen receptors. Considering all the results obtained, the safe profile of PTSO can be confirmed for different agrifood applications at the conditions assayed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Nahúm Ayala-Soldado
- Departamento de Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparadas y Toxicología, UIC Zoonosis y Enfermedades Emergentes ENZOEM, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Córdoba, Campus de Rabanales, Edificio Darwin, 14071, Córdoba, Spain
| | - M Rosario Moyano-Salvago
- Departamento de Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparadas y Toxicología, UIC Zoonosis y Enfermedades Emergentes ENZOEM, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Córdoba, Campus de Rabanales, Edificio Darwin, 14071, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Ana Molina
- Departamento de Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparadas y Toxicología, UIC Zoonosis y Enfermedades Emergentes ENZOEM, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Córdoba, Campus de Rabanales, Edificio Darwin, 14071, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Ángeles Jos
- Área de Toxicología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, Spain
| | - Ana M Cameán
- Área de Toxicología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, Spain
| | - Silvia Pichardo
- Área de Toxicología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, Spain
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10
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Laws MJ, Meling DD, Deviney ARK, Santacruz-Márquez R, Flaws JA. Long-term exposure to di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, diisononyl phthalate, and a mixture of phthalates alters estrous cyclicity and/or impairs gestational index and birth rate in mice. Toxicol Sci 2023; 193:48-61. [PMID: 36929940 PMCID: PMC10176245 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfad030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Phthalates are found in plastic food containers, medical plastics, and personal care products. However, the effects of long-term phthalate exposure on female reproduction are unknown. Thus, this study investigated the effects of long-term, dietary phthalate exposure on estrous cyclicity and fertility in female mice. Adult female CD-1 mice were fed chow containing vehicle control (corn oil) or 0.15-1500 ppm of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), diisononyl phthalate (DiNP), or a mixture of phthalates (Mix) containing DEHP, DiNP, benzyl butyl phthalate, di-n-butyl phthalate, diisobutyl phthalate, and diethyl phthalate. Measurements of urinary phthalate metabolites confirmed effective delivery of phthalates. Phthalate consumption for 11 months did not affect body weight compared to control. DEHP exposure at 0.15 ppm for 3 and 5 months increased the time that the mice spent in estrus and decreased the time the mice spent in metestrus/diestrus compared to control. DiNP exposure (0.15-1500 ppm) did not significantly affect time in estrus or metestrus/diestrus compared to control. Mix exposure at 0.15 and 1500 ppm for 3 months decreased the time the mice spent in metestrus/diestrus and increased the time the mice spent in estrus compared to control. DEHP (0.15-1500 ppm) or Mix (0.15-1500 ppm) exposure did not affect fertility-related indices compared to control. However, long-term DiNP exposure at 1500 ppm significantly reduced gestational index and birth rate compared to control. These data indicate that chronic dietary exposure to phthalates alters estrous cyclicity, and long-term exposure to DiNP reduces gestational index and birth rate in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary J Laws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Daryl D Meling
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Ashley R K Deviney
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Ramsés Santacruz-Márquez
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
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11
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Levine L, Hall JE. Does the environment affect menopause? A review of the effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals on menopause. Climacteric 2023; 26:206-215. [PMID: 37011670 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2023.2173570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals are widely distributed in our environment. Humans are exposed to these compounds not only through their occupations, but also through dietary consumption and exposure to contaminated water, personal care products and textiles. Chemicals that are persistent in the body and in our environment include dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls. Non-persistent chemicals including bisphenol A, phthalates and parabens are equally as important because they are ubiquitous in our environment. Heavy metals, including lead and cadmium, can also have endocrine disrupting properties. Although difficult to study due to their variety of sources of exposures and mechanisms of action, these chemicals have been associated with early menopause, increased frequency of vasomotor symptoms, altered steroid hormone levels and markers of diminished ovarian reserve. Understanding the impacts of these exposures is important given the potential for epigenetic modification, which can alter gene function and result in multi-generational effects. This review summarizes findings in humans and animals or cell-based models from the past decade of research. Continued research is needed to assess the effects of mixtures of chemicals, chronic exposures and new compounds that are continuously being developed as replacements for toxic chemicals that are being phased out.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Levine
- Clinical Research Branch, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - J E Hall
- Clinical Research Branch, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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12
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Gonsioroski AV, Aquino AM, Alonso-Costa LG, Barbisan LF, Scarano WR, Flaws JA. Multigenerational Effects of an Environmentally Relevant Phthalate Mixture on Reproductive Parameters and Ovarian miRNA Expression in Female Rats. Toxicol Sci 2022; 189:91-106. [PMID: 35762964 PMCID: PMC9801715 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfac066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Phthalates are endocrine-disrupting chemicals used in many consumer products. Our laboratory previously developed an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture consisting of 6 phthalates and found that it disrupted female fertility in mice. However, it was unknown if maternal exposure to the mixture affects reproductive parameters and ovarian post-transcription in the F1 and F2 generation of female rats. Thus, we tested the hypothesis that maternal exposure to the phthalate mixture affects folliculogenesis, steroidogenesis, and ovarian microRNA (miRNA) in the F1 and F2 generations of female rats. Pregnant female rats were divided into 4 groups and orally dosed daily from gestational day 10 to postnatal day 21 with corn oil (control group), 20 μg/kg/day, 200 μg/kg/day, or 200 mg/kg/day of the phthalate mixture. Maternal exposure to the phthalate mixture impaired folliculogenesis in the F1 and F2 generations of female rats and affected steroidogenesis in the F1 generation of female rats compared to control. Further, the phthalate mixture altered ovarian expression of some genes related to the cell cycle and steroidogenesis compared to control in the F1 and F2 generations of female rats. The mixture also increased ovarian expression of rno-mir-184 that is involved with the oocyte maturation process. Collectively, our data show that maternal exposure to the phthalate mixture affects folliculogenesis and steroidogenesis in the F1 and F2 generations of female rats and alters ovarian miRNA expression in the F1 generation of female rats.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Luiz G Alonso-Costa
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP 18618-689, Brazil
| | - Luis F Barbisan
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP 18618-689, Brazil
| | - Wellerson R Scarano
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP 18618-689, Brazil
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- To whom correspondence should be addressed at Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, 2001 S. Lincoln Avenue, Urbana, IL 61802, USA. E-mail:
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13
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Phthalate monoesters act through peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors in the mouse ovary. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 110:113-123. [PMID: 35421560 PMCID: PMC9749796 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.04.002] [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: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Widespread use of phthalates as solvents and plasticizers leads to everyday human exposure. The mechanisms by which phthalate metabolites act as ovarian toxicants are not fully understood. Thus, this study tested the hypothesis that the phthalate metabolites monononyl phthalate (MNP), monoisononyl phthalate (MiNP), mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP), monobutyl phthalate (MBP), monoisobutyl phthalate (MiBP), and monoethyl phthalate (MEP) act through peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) in mouse granulosa cells. Primary granulosa cells were isolated from CD-1 mice and cultured with vehicle control (dimethyl sulfoxide) or MNP, MiNP, MEHP, MBzP, MBP, MiBP, or MEP (0.4-400 μM) for 24 h. Following culture, qPCR was performed for known PPAR targets, Fabp4 and Cd36. Treatment with the phthalate metabolites led to significant changes in Fabp4 and Cd36 expression relative to control in dose-dependent or nonmonotonic fashion. Primary granulosa cell cultures were also transfected with a DNA plasmid containing luciferase expressed under the control of a consensus PPAR response element. MNP, MiNP, MEHP, and MBzP caused dose-dependent changes in expression of luciferase, indicating the presence of functional endogenous PPAR receptors in the granulosa cells that respond to phthalate metabolites. The effects of phthalate metabolites on PPAR target genes were inhibited in most of the cultures by co-treatment with the PPAR-γ inhibitor, T0070907, or with the PPAR-α inhibitor, GW6471. Collectively, these data suggest that some phthalate metabolites may act through endogenous PPAR nuclear receptors in the ovary and that the differing structures of the phthalates result in different levels of activity.
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14
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Fletcher EJ, Santacruz-Márquez R, Mourikes VE, Neff AM, Laws MJ, Flaws JA. Effects of Phthalate Mixtures on Ovarian Folliculogenesis and Steroidogenesis. TOXICS 2022; 10:251. [PMID: 35622664 PMCID: PMC9143992 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10050251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The female reproductive system is dependent upon the health of the ovaries. The ovaries are responsible for regulating reproduction and endocrine function. Throughout a female's reproductive lifespan, the ovaries undergo continual structural changes that are crucial for the maturation of ovarian follicles and the production of sex steroid hormones. Phthalates are known to target the ovaries at critical time points and to disrupt normal reproductive function. The US population is constantly exposed to measurable levels of phthalates. Phthalates can also pass placental barriers and affect the developing offspring. Phthalates are frequently prevalent as mixtures; however, most previous studies have focused on the effects of single phthalates on the ovary and female reproduction. Thus, the effects of exposure to phthalate mixtures on ovarian function and the female reproductive system remain unclear. Following a brief introduction to the ovary and its major roles, this review covers what is currently known about the effects of phthalate mixtures on the ovary, focusing primarily on their effects on folliculogenesis and steroidogenesis. Furthermore, this review focuses on the effects of phthalate mixtures on female reproductive outcomes. Finally, this review emphasizes the need for future research on the effects of environmentally relevant phthalate mixtures on the ovary and female reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jodi A. Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA; (E.J.F.); (R.S.-M.); (V.E.M.); (A.M.N.); (M.J.L.)
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15
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England-Mason G, Merrill SM, Gladish N, Moore SR, Giesbrecht GF, Letourneau N, MacIsaac JL, MacDonald AM, Kinniburgh DW, Ponsonby AL, Saffery R, Martin JW, Kobor MS, Dewey D. Prenatal exposure to phthalates and peripheral blood and buccal epithelial DNA methylation in infants: An epigenome-wide association study. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 163:107183. [PMID: 35325772 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal exposure to phthalates has been associated with adverse health and neurodevelopmental outcomes. DNA methylation (DNAm) alterations may be a mechanism underlying these effects, but prior investigations of prenatal exposure to phthalates and neonatal DNAm profiles are limited to placental tissue and umbilical cord blood. OBJECTIVE Conduct an epigenome-wide association study (EWAS) of the associations between prenatal exposure to phthalates and DNAm in two accessible infant tissues, venous buffy coat blood and buccal epithelial cells (BECs). METHODS Participants included 152 maternal-infant pairs from the Alberta Pregnancy Outcomes and Nutrition (APrON) study. Maternal second trimester urine samples were analyzed for nine phthalate metabolites. Blood (n = 74) or BECs (n = 78) were collected from 3-month-old infants and profiled for DNAm using the Infinium HumanMethylation450 (450K) BeadChip. Robust linear regressions were used to investigate the associations between high (HMWPs) and low molecular weight phthalates (LMWPs) and change in methylation levels at variable Cytosine-phosphate-Guanine (CpG) sites in infant tissues, as well as the sensitivity of associations to potential confounders. RESULTS One candidate CpG in gene RNF39 reported by a previous study examining prenatal exposure to phthalates and cord blood DNAm was replicated. The EWAS identified 12 high-confidence CpGs in blood and another 12 in BECs associated with HMWPs and/or LMWPs. Prenatal exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) associated with two of the CpGs associated with HMWPs in BECs. DISCUSSION Prenatal exposure to phthalates was associated with DNAm variation at CpGs annotated to genes associated with endocrine hormone activity (i.e., SLCO4A1, TPO), immune pathways and DNA damage (i.e., RASGEF1B, KAZN, HLA-A, MYO18A, DIP2C, C1or109), and neurodevelopment (i.e., AMPH, NOTCH3, DNAJC5). Future studies that characterize the stability of these associations in larger samples, multiple cohorts, across tissues, and investigate the potential associations between these biomarkers and relevant health and neurodevelopmental outcomes are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gillian England-Mason
- Department of Paediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Owerko Centre, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sarah M Merrill
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nicole Gladish
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sarah R Moore
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Gerald F Giesbrecht
- Department of Paediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Owerko Centre, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Nicole Letourneau
- Department of Paediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Owerko Centre, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Julia L MacIsaac
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Amy M MacDonald
- Alberta Centre for Toxicology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - David W Kinniburgh
- Alberta Centre for Toxicology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Anne-Louise Ponsonby
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Richard Saffery
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jonathan W Martin
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Södermanland, Sweden
| | - Michael S Kobor
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Program in Child and Brain Development, CIFAR, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Deborah Dewey
- Department of Paediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Owerko Centre, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
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16
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Xia BT, He Y, Guo Y, Huang JL, Tang XJ, Wang JR, Tan Y, Duan P. Multi- and transgenerational biochemical effects of low-dose exposure to bisphenol A and 4-nonylphenol on testicular interstitial (Leydig) cells. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2022; 37:1032-1046. [PMID: 35005817 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) and 4-nonylphenol (NP) are well-known endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) that have been proven to affect Leydig cell (LC) functions and testosterone production, but whether BPA and NP have multi- and transgenerational biochemical effects on Leydig cells (LCs) is unknown. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is a powerful analytical technique that enables label-free and non-destructive analysis of the tissue specimen. Herein we employed FTIR coupled with chemometrics analysis to identify biomolecular changes in testicular interstitial (Leydig) cells of rats after chronic exposure to low doses of BPA and NP. Cluster segregations between exposed and control groups were observed based on the fingerprint region of 1800-900 cm-1 in all generations. The main biochemical alterations for segregation were amide I, amide II and nucleic acids. BPA and NP single and co-exposure induced significant differences in the ratio of amide I to amide II compared to the corresponding control group in all generations. BPA exposure resulted in remarkable changes of cellular gene transcription and DNA oxidative damage across all generations. Direct exposure to BPA, NP, and BPA&NP of F0 and F1 generations could significantly decrease lipid accumulation in LCs in the F2 and F3 generations. The overall findings revealed that single or co-exposure to BPA and NP at environmental concentrations affects the biochemical structures and properties of LCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin-Tong Xia
- Postgraduate Training Basement of Jinzhou Medicinal University, Shiyan Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
- Department of Urology, Xiangyang No.1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Yan He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xiangyang No.1 People's Hospital, Jinzhou Medical University Union Training Base, Xiangyang, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xiangyang No.1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Yang Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xiangyang No.1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Jiao-Long Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xiangyang No.1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Xiao-Juan Tang
- College of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Jian-Ru Wang
- Public Health and Management College, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Yan Tan
- Department of Andrology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
- Biomedical Engineering College, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Peng Duan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xiangyang No.1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
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17
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Svoboda LK, Ishikawa T, Dolinoy DC. Developmental toxicant exposures and sex-specific effects on epigenetic programming and cardiovascular health across generations. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2022; 8:dvac017. [PMID: 36325489 PMCID: PMC9600458 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvac017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Despite substantial strides in diagnosis and treatment, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) continue to represent the leading cause of death in the USA and around the world, resulting in significant morbidity and loss of productive years of life. It is increasingly evident that environmental exposures during early development can influence CVD risk across the life course. CVDs exhibit marked sexual dimorphism, but how sex interacts with environmental exposures to affect cardiovascular health is a critical and understudied area of environmental health. Emerging evidence suggests that developmental exposures may have multi- and transgenerational effects on cardiovascular health, with potential sex differences; however, further research in this important area is urgently needed. Lead (Pb), phthalate plasticizers, and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are ubiquitous environmental contaminants with numerous adverse human health effects. Notably, recent evidence suggests that developmental exposure to each of these toxicants has sex-specific effects on cardiovascular outcomes, but the underlying mechanisms, and their effects on future generations, require further investigation. This review article will highlight the role for the developmental environment in influencing cardiovascular health across generations, with a particular emphasis on sex differences and epigenetic mechanisms. In particular, we will focus on the current evidence for adverse multi and transgenerational effects of developmental exposures to Pb, phthalates, and PFAS and highlight areas where further research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurie K Svoboda
- *Correspondence address. Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA. Tel: +734-764-2032; E-mail:
| | - Tomoko Ishikawa
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Dana C Dolinoy
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Nutritional Sciences, University of Michigan, School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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18
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Gill S, Brehm E, Leon K, Chiu J, Meling DD, Flaws JA. Prenatal exposure to an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture alters ovarian steroidogenesis and folliculogenesis in the F1 generation of adult female mice. Reprod Toxicol 2021; 106:25-31. [PMID: 34597818 PMCID: PMC8643306 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Phthalates are a family of chemicals that can be found in plastic and personal care products used by consumers every day and they are known endocrine disrupting chemicals that can disrupt female reproduction. In previous studies, an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture was shown to affect female reproduction in a transgenerational manner. However, limited information was available on the effect of phthalate mixtures on ovarian steroidogenesis and folliculogenesis. Ovarian steroidogenesis is important for producing hormones needed for reproduction and ovarian regulation, and folliculogenesis is essential for the development of ovarian follicles and successful fertility. Thus, this study tested the hypothesis that prenatal exposure to an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture adversely affects ovarian steroidogenesis and folliculogenesis in the F1 generation of adult female mice. Pregnant dams (F0 generation) were orally dosed with vehicle control or a phthalate mixture (20 μg/kg/day-500 mg/kg/day) daily from gestational day 10 to birth, and the adult F1 females were the offspring of the dosed dams. The ovaries of the F1 generation were collected at postnatal day 60. One ovary was used for histological examination of the numbers and percent of different follicle types. The other ovary was used to measure expression of theca and granulosa cell enzymes. Additionally, sera were collected for measuring hormone levels. The results indicate that prenatal exposure to the phthalate mixture decreases hormone levels and gene expression, alters the transitioning of follicle types, and leads to a higher incidence of atresia in the F1 generation offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Gill
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Emily Brehm
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Kathleen Leon
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Justin Chiu
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Daryl D Meling
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States.
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19
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Brehm E, Flaws JA. Prenatal exposure to a mixture of phthalates accelerates the age-related decline in reproductive capacity but may not affect direct biomarkers of ovarian aging in the F1 generation of female mice. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2021; 7:dvab010. [PMID: 34707890 PMCID: PMC8543146 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvab010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Phthalates are used in many consumer products, leading to daily human exposure. Although many studies focus on single phthalates, humans are exposed to mixtures of phthalates. Our laboratory created a phthalate mixture consisting of six different phthalates and found that it negatively affected female reproduction and accelerated some biomarkers of reproductive aging. However, it was unknown if prenatal exposure to the mixture accelerates the natural decline in reproductive capacity and ovarian aging in mice. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that prenatal exposure to a phthalate mixture accelerates the age-related decline in reproductive capacity and biomarkers of ovarian aging in the F1 generation of mice. Pregnant CD-1 dams were orally dosed with control or phthalate mixture (20 µg/kg/day-200 mg/kg/day) daily from gestational day 10-birth. The F1 female pups were aged to 11-13 months, and then estrous cyclicity and breeding trials were conducted at 11 and 13 months. Ovaries were collected from the F1 females at 13 months to examine biomarkers of ovarian aging. Prenatal exposure to the phthalate mixture decreased the time the F1 females spent in proestrus and the ability of the F1 females to give birth at 11 and 13 months of age compared to control. In contrast, prenatal exposure to the mixture did not affect biomarkers of direct aging of the ovary in the F1 generation. Collectively, our data show that prenatal phthalate mixture exposure accelerates the natural age-related decline in reproductive capacity but may not affect some biomarkers of ovarian aging in the F1 generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Brehm
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2001 S. Lincoln Ave. Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2001 S. Lincoln Ave. Urbana, IL 61802, USA
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Repouskou A, Stamatakis A, Kitraki E. In utero exposure to phthalates and reproductive toxicity in rodents. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 35:101512. [PMID: 34266749 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2021.101512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Phthalates, widely used as plasticizers, are contained in many everyday products. Human biomonitoring studies detect their presence in biological fluids of a large part of the population worldwide. Maternal exposure during pregnancy has been related with aberrations in the reproductive growth of male infants. Rodent studies show that gestational exposure to single phthalates elicits reproductive toxicity in both sexes. Early aberrations include inhibition of gonadal sex determining gene expression and steroidogenesis, histopathology, and disturbed gametogenesis, leading later in life to dysfunctions in sperm production and oocyte reserves. Animal studies of in utero exposure to mixtures of phthalates, better mimicking human exposures, revealed analogous reproductive dysfunctions with the single compounds, but also indicated the combined actions and cumulative effects exerted by these chemicals. Further understanding the underlying mechanisms and the species differences in phthalate-induced reproductive toxicity will help to improve the risk assessment for human exposure to these toxicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Repouskou
- Basic Sciences Lab, Faculty of Dentistry, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
| | - Antonios Stamatakis
- Biology- Biochemistry Lab, Faculty of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
| | - Efthymia Kitraki
- Basic Sciences Lab, Faculty of Dentistry, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
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21
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Prenatal exposure to a mixture of different phthalates increases the risk of mammary carcinogenesis in F1 female offspring. Food Chem Toxicol 2021; 156:112519. [PMID: 34428494 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2021.112519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Phthalates metabolites have been detected in the urine of pregnant and breastfeeding women. Thus, this study evaluated the adverse effects of maternal exposure to a mixture of six phthalates (Pth mix) on the mammary gland development and carcinogenesis in F1 female offspring. Pregnant female Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed daily to vehicle or Pth mix (35.22% diethyl-phthalate, 21.03% di-(2-ethylhexyl)-phthalate, 14.91% dibutyl-phthalate, 15.10% diisononyl-phthalate, 8.61% diisobutyl-phthalate, and 5.13% benzylbutyl-phthalate) by gavage at 20 μg/kg, 200 μg/kg or 200 mg/kg during gestational day 10 (GD 10) to postnatal day 21 (PND 21). After weaning (PND 22), some female offspring were euthanized for mammary gland analyses while other females received a single dose of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU, 50 mg/kg) or vehicle and then tumor incidence and multiplicity were recorded until PND 180. Maternal Pth mix exposure increased the number of Ki-67 and progesterone receptor-positive epithelial cells in the mammary gland from Pth mix 200 at μg/kg and 200 mg/kg groups. In addition, tumor incidence and mean number were higher only in Pth mix at 200 mg/kg when compared to the vehicle-treated group, and percentage of tumor-free animals was lower in Pth mix at 200 μg/kg and 200 mg/kg groups. The findings indicate that perinatal Pth mixture exposure increased susceptibility to MNU-induced mammary carcinogenesis in adult F1 female offspring.
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Laws MJ, Neff AM, Brehm E, Warner GR, Flaws JA. Endocrine disrupting chemicals and reproductive disorders in women, men, and animal models. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2021; 92:151-190. [PMID: 34452686 PMCID: PMC9743013 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2021.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This chapter covers the known effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) on reproductive disorders. The EDCs represented are highly studied, including plasticizers (bisphenols and phthalates), chemicals in personal care products (parabens), persistent environmental contaminants (polychlorinated biphenyls), and chemicals in pesticides or herbicides. Both female and male reproductive disorders are reviewed in the chapter. Female disorders include infertility/subfertility, irregular reproductive cycles, early menopause, premature ovarian insufficiency, polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids. Male disorders include infertility/subfertility, cryptorchidism, and hypospadias. Findings from both human and animal studies are represented.
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