Identification of methyl triclosan and halogenated analogues in male common carp (Cyprinus carpio) from Las Vegas Bay and semipermeable membrane devices from Las Vegas Wash, Nevada

Toxic effects of triclosan in aquatic organisms: A review focusing on single and combined exposure of environmental conditions and pollutants

Triclosan (TCS) is an antibacterial agent commonly used in personal care products. Due to its widespread use and improper disposal, it is also a pervasive contaminant, particularly in aquatic environments. When released into water bodies, TCS can induce deleterious effects on developmental and physiological aspects of aquatic organisms and also interact with environmental stressors such as weather, metals, pharmaceuticals, and microplastics. Multiple studies have described the adverse effects of TCS on aquatic organisms, but few have reported on the interactions between TCS and other environmental conditions and pollutants. Because aquatic environments include a mix of contaminants and natural factors can correlate with contaminants, it is important to understand the toxicological outcomes of combinations of substances. Due to its lipophilic characteristics, TCS can interact with a wide range of substances and environmental stressors in aquatic environments. Here, we identify a need for caution when using TCS by describing not only the effects of exposure to TCS alone on aquatic organisms but also how toxicity changes when it acts in combination with multiple environmental stressors.

Triclosan and Methyl Triclosan in Prey Fish in a Wastewater-Influenced Estuary

While the antimicrobial ingredient triclosan has been widely monitored in the environment, much less is known about the occurrence and toxicity of its major transformation product, methyl triclosan. An improved method was developed and validated to effectively extract and quantify both contaminants in fish tissue and used to characterize concentrations in small prey fish in areas of San Francisco Bay where exposure to triclosan via municipal wastewater discharges was expected to be highest. Concentrations of triclosan (0.44-57 ng/g wet wt, median 1.9 ng/g wet wt) and methyl triclosan (1.1-200 ng/g wet wt, median 36 ng/g wet wt) in fish tissue decreased linearly with concentrations of nitrate in site water, used as indicators of wastewater influence. The total concentrations of triclosan and methyl triclosan measured in prey fish were below available toxicity thresholds for triclosan, but there are few ecotoxicological studies to evaluate impacts of methyl triclosan. Methyl triclosan represented up to 96% of the total concentrations observed. These results emphasize the importance of monitoring contaminant transformation products, which can be present at higher levels than the parent compound. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:620-627. © 2023 SETAC.

Occurrence and distribution of triclosan and its transformation products in Taihu Lake, China

The transformation products of triclosan (5-chloro-2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)phenol) may be more persistent and toxic than their parent compound, yet their occurrence in aquatic environments is poorly understood. In this study, we identified three transformation products in sediment samples from Taihu Lake and compared their concentrations with the parent compound triclosan. Triclosan in Taihu Lake was at low level, ranging from 0.086 to 1.1 ng/L in surface water and 0.0058-8.3 ng/g in sediments. The three detected transformation products included methyl triclosan, chlorinated triclosan derivatives, and methyl chlorinated triclosan derivatives. Those transformation products constituted 0.73-87.5% of the total triclosan (total triclosan is the sum of triclosan, methyl triclosan, chlorinated triclosan derivatives, and methyl chlorinated triclosan derivatives on a molar basis), indicating that the ecological risk of transformation products should be considered in addition to the parent compound. Different transformation products had distinct spatial distributions. Chlorinated triclosan derivatives had the highest concentration in samples from the northwest region (0.016-0.21 ng/g) of the lake and were positively correlated with triclosan, which may indicate the possible transformation from triclosan to chlorinated triclosan derivatives. Methyl triclosan and methyl chlorinated triclosan derivatives were generally higher in samples from the center of the lake (0.22-0.28 ng/g for methyl triclosan and 0.017-0.021 ng/g for methyl chlorinated triclosan derivatives, respectively), indicating the possible occurrence of in situ microbial methylation of triclosan and chlorinated triclosan derivatives and the accumulation of those methylated analogues in Taihu Lake.

Biotransformation of 2,4,6-tris(2,4,6-tribromophenoxy)-1,3,5-triazine (TTBP-TAZ) can contribute to high levels of 2,4,6-tribromophenol (2,4,6-TBP) in humans

2,4,6-Tribromophenol (2,4,6-TBP) is a brominated flame retardant that accumulates in human tissues and is a potential toxicant. Previous studies found 2,4,6-TBP levels in human tissues were significantly higher than those of brominated flame retardants measured in the same samples. In contrast, the levels of 2,4,6-TBP in the environment and foodstuff are not elevated, suggesting a low potential for direct intake through environmental exposure or diet. Here, we hypothesized that high levels of 2,4,6-TBP in human tissues are partially from the indirect exposure sources, such as biotransformation of highly brominated substances. We conducted in vitro assays utilizing human and rat liver microsomes to compare the biotransformation rates of four highly brominated flame retardants, which could potentially transform to 2,4,6-TBP, including decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE), 2,4,6-tris-(2,4,6-tribromophenoxy)-1,3,5-triazine (TTBP-TAZ), 1,2-bis(2,4,6-tribromophenoxy)ethane (BTBPE), and tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA). Our results show that TTBP-TAZ rapidly metabolizes in both human and rat liver microsomes with a half-life of 1.1 and 2.2 h, respectively, suggesting that TTBP-TAZ is a potential precursor of 2,4,6-TBP. In contrast, 2,4,6-TBP was not formed as a result of biotransformation of TBBPA, BTBPE, and DBDPE in both human and rat liver microsomes. We applied suspect and target screening to explore the metabolic pathways of TTBP-TAZ and identified 2,4,6-TBP as a major metabolite of TTBP-TAZ accounting for 87% of all formed metabolites. These in vitro results were further tested by an in vivo experiment in which 2,4,6-TBP was detected in the rat blood and liver at concentrations of 270 ± 110 and 50 ± 14 μg/g lipid weight, respectively, after being exposed to 250 mg/kg body weight/day of TTBP-TAZ for a week. The hepatic mRNA expression demonstrated that TTBP-TAZ significantly activates the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and promotes fatty degeneration (18 and 28-fold change compared to control, respectively) in rats.

Biomarkers-based assessment of triclosan toxicity in aquatic environment: A mechanistic review

Triclosan (TCS), an emergent pollutant, is raising a global concern due to its toxic effects on organisms and aquatic ecosystems. The non-availability of proven treatment technologies for TCS remediation is the central issue stressing thorough research on understanding the underlying mechanisms of toxicity and assessing vital biomarkers in the aquatic organism for practical monitoring purposes. Given the unprecedented circumstances during COVID 19 pandemic, a several-fold higher discharge of TCS in the aquatic ecosystems cannot be considered a remote possibility. Therefore, identifying potential biomarkers for assessing chronic effects of TCS are prerequisites for addressing the issues related to its ecological impact and its monitoring in the future. It is the first holistic review on highlighting the biomarkers of TCS toxicity based on a comprehensive review of available literature about the biomarkers related to cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, hematological, alterations of gene expression, and metabolic profiling. This review establishes that biomarkers at the subcellular level such as oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, neurotoxicity, and metabolic enzymes can be used to evaluate the cytotoxic effect of TCS in future investigations. Micronuclei frequency and % DNA damage proved to be reliable biomarkers for genotoxic effects of TCS in fishes and other aquatic organisms. Alteration of gene expression and metabolic profiling in different organs provides a better insight into mechanisms underlying the biocide's toxicity. In the concluding part of the review, the present status of knowledge about mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance of TCS and its relevance in understanding the toxicity is also discussed referring to the relevant reports on microorganisms.

Movement of synthetic organic compounds in the food web after the introduction of invasive quagga mussels (Dreissena bugensis) in Lake Mead, Nevada and Arizona, USA

Introductions of dreissenid mussels in North America have been a significant concern over the last few decades. This study assessed the distribution of synthetic organic compounds (SOCs) in the food web of Lake Mead, Nevada/Arizona, USA and how this distribution was influenced by the introduction of invasive quagga mussels. A clear spatial gradient of SOC concentrations in water was observed between lake basins downstream of populated areas and more rural areas. Within the food web, trophic magnification factors (TMF) indicated statistically significant biomagnification for nine, and biodilution for two, of 22 SOCs examined. The highest value recorded was for PCB 118 (TMF, 5.14), and biomagnification of methyl triclosan (TMF, 3.85) was also apparent. Biodilution was observed for Tonalide® (0.06) and Galaxolide® (0.38). Total SOC concentration in quagga mussels was higher than in three pelagic fishes. Also, 19 of 20 SOC examined in Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides) had substantially lower concentrations in 2013, when quagga mussels had become well established, than in 2007/08, soon after quagga mussels were introduced. Estimates of SOC concentrations in the water column and quagga mussels suggest that a considerable portion (~10.5%) of the SOC mass in the lake has shifted from the pelagic to the benthic environments due to quagga mussel growth. These observations suggest that benthic species, such as the endangered Razorback Sucker, may be experiencing increased risk of SOC exposure. In addition, stable isotope analysis (carbon and nitrogen) indicated a decrease in the nutritional value of zooplankton to consumers (e.g., Razorback Sucker larvae) since quagga mussels became established. These changes could affect Razorback Sucker larval survival and recruitment. Results from this study strongly suggest that the introduction of quagga mussels has greatly altered the dynamics of SOCs and other processes in the food web of Lake Mead.

Occurrence and Safety Evaluation of Antimicrobial Compounds Triclosan and Triclocarban in Water and Fishes of the Multitrophic Niche of River Torsa, India

Personal care product (PCP) chemicals have a greater chance of accumulation in the aquatic environments because of their volume of use. PCPs are biologically active substances that can exert an adverse effect on the ecology and food safety. Information on the status of these substances in Indian open water ecosystems is scarce. In this paper, we report the incidence of two synthetic antimicrobials, triclosan (TCS), including its metabolite methyl-triclosan (Me-TCS) and triclocarban (TCC) in Torsa, a transboundary river flowing through India. In water TCS and TCC were detected at levels exceeding their respective PNEC (Predictive No Effect Concentration). Both the compounds were found to be bioaccumulative in fish. TCS concentration (91.1-589 µg/kg) in fish was higher than that of TCC (29.1-285.5 µg/kg). The accumulation of residues of the biocides varied widely among fishes of different species, ecological niche, and feeding habits. Me-TCS could be detected in fishes and not in water. The environmental hazard quotient of both TCS and TCC in water indicated a moderate risk. However, the health risk analysis revealed that fishes of the river would not pose any direct hazard to human when consumed. This is the first report of the occurrence of these PCP chemicals in a torrential river system of the eastern Himalayan region.

Revealing the mechanisms of Triclosan affecting of methane production from waste activated sludge

Triclosan (TCS), as an antimicrobial agent, is considered as a representative emerging contaminant and was frequently detected in excess sludge. This study investigated the effect of TCS on activate wastewater sludge (WAS) digestion through laboratory methane production experiment. It was concluded that TCS had a tendency to restrain methane production from sludge with its exposure level increasing. The results displayed that the yields of final maximum cumulative methane production were similar about 108.4 mL/g VSS at TCS level lower 200 mg TCS/kg TSS, while the values were approximately 95.2 mL/g VSS with TCS level over 550 mg TCS/kg TSS. Although TCS could be degraded, its intermediates in this study had no effect on sludge digestion. In addition, TCS at higher levels had seriously negative effect on the solubilization, hydrolysis, acidification, and methanogenesis processes. Microbial community was further analyzed to understand the TCS's effect on digestion system from a micro perspective.

Microplastics in Lake Mead National Recreation Area, USA: Occurrence and biological uptake

Microplastics are an environmental contaminant of growing concern, but there is a lack of information about microplastic distribution, persistence, availability, and biological uptake in freshwater systems. This is especially true for large river systems like the Colorado River that spans multiple states through mostly rural and agricultural land use. This study characterized the quantity and morphology of microplastics in different environmental compartments in two large reservoirs along the Colorado River: Lakes Mead and Mohave, within Lake Mead National Recreation Area. To assess microplastic occurrence, surface water and surficial sediment were sampled at a total of nine locations. Sampling locations targeted different sub-basins with varying levels of anthropogenic impact. Las Vegas Wash, a tributary which delivers treated wastewater to Lake Mead, was also sampled. A sediment core (33 cm long, representing approximately 19 years) was extracted from Las Vegas Bay to assess changes in microplastic deposition over time. Striped bass (Morone saxatilis), common carp (Cyprinus carpio), quagga mussels (Dreissena bugensis), and Asian clams (Corbicula fluminea) were sampled at a subset of locations to assess biological uptake of microplastics. Microplastic concentrations were 0.44-9.7 particles/cubic meter at the water surface and 87.5-1,010 particles/kilogram dry weight (kg dw) at the sediment surface. Sediment core concentrations were 220-2,040 particles/kg dw, with no clear increasing or decreasing trend over time. Shellfish microplastic concentrations ranged from 2.7-105 particles/organism, and fish concentrations ranged from 0-19 particles/organism. Fibers were the most abundant particle type found in all sample types. Although sample numbers are small, microplastic concentrations appear to be higher in areas of greater anthropogenic impact. Results from this study improve our understanding of the occurrence and biological uptake of microplastics in Lake Mead National Recreation Area, and help fill existing knowledge gaps on microplastics in freshwater environments in the southwestern U.S.

Removal of seven endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) from municipal wastewater effluents by a freshwater green alga

The present endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in wastewater effluents due to incomplete removal during the treatment processes may cause potential ecological and human health risks. This study evaluated the removal and uptake of seven EDCs spiked in two types of wastewater effluent (i.e., ultrafiltration and ozonation) and effluent cultivated with the freshwater green alga Nannochloris sp. In ultrafiltration effluent cultivated with Nannochloris sp. for 7 days, the removal rate of 17β-estradiol (E2), 17α-ethinylestradiol (EE2), and salicylic acid (SAL) was 60%; but Nannochloris sp. did not promote the removal of other EDCs studied. The algal-mediated removal of E2, EE2, and SAL was attributed to photodegradation and biodegradation. Triclosan (TCS) underwent rapid photodegradation regardless of adding algae in the effluent with 63%-100% removal within 7 days. Triclosan was also found associated with algal cells immediately after adding algae, and thus the primary mechanisms involved were photodegradation and bioremoval (i.e., bioadsorption and bioaccumulation). After algal cultivation, TCS still has a bioaccumulation potential to pose high risks within the food web and the endocrine disrupting properties of the residual estrogens in the effluent are not eliminated. Algal cultivation can be exploited to treat wastewater effluents but the removal efficiencies of EDCs highly depend on chemical types.

Exposure to triclosan changes the expression of microRNA in male juvenile zebrafish (Danio rerio)

Triclosan (TCS) is a broad-spectrum antibacterial agent which is widely used in various personal care products and cosmetics. It has been found that TCS affects endocrine, immune, nervous, reproductive, and developmental system. Although microRNAs (miRNAs) act a pivotal part in lots of metabolic activities, whether and how they are related to the process of TCS-induced toxicity is unknown. In the present study, TCS induced changes in miRNAs and target gene expression in male zebrafish (Danio rerio) brain, and the potential mechanism was studied. Male juvenile zebrafish were exposed to 0 and 68 μg/L TCS for 42 d. miRNA was isolated from the brain pool of the zebrafish and the expression profiles of 255 known zebrafish miRNAs were analysed by using Affymetrix miRNA 4.0 microarrays. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to assay the expression of 5 differentially expressed miRNAs in the microarray data and some related-genes in brains. The GO term analysis revealed that miRNAs significantly affected by TCS exposure were mainly involved in translation, transcription, DNA-templated, protein transport, and motor neuron axon guidance biological process. Pathway analysis showed that target genes of 5 differentially expressed miRNAs prominently participate in basal transcription factors, purine metabolism, and ribosome biogenesis in eukaryotes. In addition, key genes in purine metabolism pathway and oxidative stress related-genes were significantly changed. These findings offer novel insight into the mechanisms of epigenetic regulation in TCS-induced toxicity in male zebrafish, and distinguish novel miRNA biomarkers for exposure to TCS.

Uptake of endocrine-disrupting chemicals by quagga mussels (Dreissena bugensis) in an urban-impacted aquatic ecosystem

Untreated organic contaminants in municipal wastewater, such as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), have become a significant issue in aquatic ecosystems, particularly in freshwater bodies that receive wastewater discharge. This has raised concerns about the accumulation of EDCs in aquatic species via continuous exposure. This study evaluated the uptake of EDCs by quagga mussels (Dreissena bugensis), an invasive species in a water supply reservoir. The field sampling results showed that steroid hormones were not detected in the water samples, and only pharmaceuticals and personal care products were present (0.49 to 36 ng/L). Additionally, testosterone was the most abundant steroid in the mussel tissue (6.3 to 20 ng/g dry weight), and other synthetic chemicals (i.e., bisphenol A, triclosan, and salicylic acid) were also detected in the mussel tissue (24 to 47 ng/g dry weight). After being exposed to exogenous EDCs for 7, 21, and 42 days under controlled laboratory conditions, testosterone was not detected in the mussel anymore, but bisphenol A, triclosan, and salicylic acid were found at relatively high levels in the mussel tissue, although the concentrations did not increase over time. Overall, the study demonstrated the uptake of EDCs in quagga mussels, which suggests that this species can be used to reflect water quality deterioration in aquatic ecosystems.

Integrated disperser freezing purification with extraction using fatty acid-based solidification of floating organic-droplet (IDFP-EFA-SFO) for triclosan and methyltriclosan determination in seawater, sediment and seafood

A microextraction method for the determination of triclosan and methyltriclosan in marine environmental samples was developed. The disperser was first serves as a preliminary extractant for analytes, then as a frozen solvent to remove impurities at -20 °C, and finally as a disperser agent in the microextraction procedure. With the extractants solidified and float on the surface of the aqueous phase at low temperature, a separation was achieved to avoided use of specialized laboratory instruments. The method was optimized using Plackett-Burman design and central composite design as follows: 146 μL octanoic acid as extractant, 793 μL acetoneas disperser, 3.0 min centrifugation and 1.1 min vortex time. The limits of detection were 0.022-0.060 μg L^-1 or μg kg^-1 and recoveries were 83.3-103.5% for TCS and MTCS in seawater, sediments and seafood. The method has excellent prospects for sample pre-treatment and trace-level analysis of triclosan and methyltriclosan in marine environmental samples.

Association between degradation of pharmaceuticals and endocrine-disrupting compounds and microbial communities along a treated wastewater effluent gradient in Lake Mead

The role of microbial communities in the degradation of trace organic contaminants in the environment is little understood. In this study, the biotransformation potential of 27 pharmaceuticals and endocrine-disrupting compounds was examined in parallel with a characterization of the native microbial community in water samples from four sites variously impacted by urban run-off and wastewater discharge in Lake Mead, Nevada and Arizona, USA. Samples included relatively pristine Colorado River water at the upper end of the lake, nearly pure tertiary-treated municipal wastewater entering via the Las Vegas Wash, and waters of mixed influence (Las Vegas Bay and Boulder Basin), which represented a gradient of treated wastewater effluent impact. Microbial diversity analysis based on 16S rRNA gene censuses revealed the community at this site to be distinct from the less urban-impacted locations, although all sites were similar in overall diversity and richness. Similarly, Biolog EcoPlate assays demonstrated that the microbial community at Las Vegas Wash was the most metabolically versatile and active. Organic contaminants added as a mixture to laboratory microcosms were more rapidly and completely degraded in the most wastewater-impacted sites (Las Vegas Wash and Las Vegas Bay), with the majority exhibiting shorter half-lives than at the other sites or in a bacteriostatic control. Although the reasons for enhanced degradation capacity in the wastewater-impacted sites remain to be established, these data are consistent with the acclimatization of native microorganisms (either through changes in community structure or metabolic regulation) to effluent-derived trace contaminants. This study suggests that in urban, wastewater-impacted watersheds, prior exposure to organic contaminants fundamentally alters the structure and function of microbial communities, which in turn translates into greater potential for the natural attenuation of these compounds compared to more pristine sites.

Sperm quality biomarkers complement reproductive and endocrine parameters in investigating environmental contaminants in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) from the Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Lake Mead National Recreational Area (LMNRA) serves as critical habitat for several federally listed species and supplies water for municipal, domestic, and agricultural use in the Southwestern U.S. Contaminant sources and concentrations vary among the sub-basins within LMNRA. To investigate whether exposure to environmental contaminants is associated with alterations in male common carp (Cyprinus carpio) gamete quality and endocrine- and reproductive parameters, data were collected among sub-basins over 7 years (1999-2006). Endpoints included sperm quality parameters of motility, viability, mitochondrial membrane potential, count, morphology, and DNA fragmentation; plasma components were vitellogenin (VTG), 17ß-estradiol, 11-keto-testosterone, triiodothyronine, and thyroxine. Fish condition factor, gonadosomatic index, and gonadal histology parameters were also measured. Diminished biomarker effects were noted in 2006, and sub-basin differences were indicated by the irregular occurrences of contaminants and by several associations between chemicals (e.g., polychlorinated biphenyls, hexachlorobenzene, galaxolide, and methyl triclosan) and biomarkers (e.g., plasma thyroxine, sperm motility and DNA fragmentation). By 2006, sex steroid hormone and VTG levels decreased with subsequent reduced endocrine disrupting effects. The sperm quality bioassays developed and applied with carp complemented endocrine and reproductive data, and can be adapted for use with other species.

Effects of triclosan (TCS) on hormonal balance and genes of hypothalamus-pituitary- gonad axis of juvenile male Yellow River carp (Cyprinus carpio)

Triclosan (TCS) is a broad spectrum antimicrobial agent which has been widely dispersed and determinated in the aquatic environment. However, the effects of TCS on reproductive endocrine in male fish are poorly understood. In this study, male Yellow River carp (Cyprinus carpio) were exposed to 0, 1/5, 1/10 and 1/20 LC₅₀ (96 h LC₅₀ of TCS to carp) TCS under semi-static conditions for 42 d. Vitellogenin (Vtg), 17β-estradiol (E₂), testosterone(T), gonadotropin (GtH), and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Meanwhile, we also examined the mRNA expressions of aromatase, GtHs-β, GnRH, estrogen receptor (Er), and androgen receptor (Ar) by quantitative Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). TCS induced Vtg levels of hepatopancreas, E₂ levels of serum, and inhibited Ar and Er mRNA levels, suggesting that the induction of Vtg production by TCS was indirectly caused by non-Er pathways. TCS-induced Vtg levels by interfering with the reproductive axis at plenty of latent loci of male carps: (a) TCS exposure increased the aromatase mRNA expression of hypothalamus and gonad aromatase, consequently increasing serum concentrations of E₂ to induce Vtg in hepatopancreas; (b) TCS treatment changed GtH-β and GnRH mRNA expression and secretion, causing the disturbance of reproductive endocrine; (c) TCS exposure decreased Ar mRNA levels, indicating potential Ar-mediated antiandrogen action. These mechanisms showed that TCS may induce Vtg production in male carp by non-Er-mediated pathways.

The Florence Statement on Triclosan and Triclocarban

The Florence Statement on Triclosan and Triclocarban documents a consensus of more than 200 scientists and medical professionals on the hazards of and lack of demonstrated benefit from common uses of triclosan and triclocarban. These chemicals may be used in thousands of personal care and consumer products as well as in building materials. Based on extensive peer-reviewed research, this statement concludes that triclosan and triclocarban are environmentally persistent endocrine disruptors that bioaccumulate in and are toxic to aquatic and other organisms. Evidence of other hazards to humans and ecosystems from triclosan and triclocarban is presented along with recommendations intended to prevent future harm from triclosan, triclocarban, and antimicrobial substances with similar properties and effects. Because antimicrobials can have unintended adverse health and environmental impacts, they should only be used when they provide an evidence-based health benefit. Greater transparency is needed in product formulations, and before an antimicrobial is incorporated into a product, the long-term health and ecological impacts should be evaluated. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP1788.

Fate and mass balance of triclosan and its degradation products: Comparison of three different types of wastewater treatments and aerobic/anaerobic sludge digestion

Triclosan (TCS) as an antimicrobial agent has been ubiquitously found in wastewater and sewage sludge. TCS may undergo transformation/degradation during wastewater treatment. Some of the resulted products such as 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP), 2,8-dichlorodibenzoparadioxin (2,8-DCDD) and methyl triclosan (MTCS) are presumed toxic/persistent compounds. In this study, fate of TCS and the probability of formation of important degradation products were investigated in three susceptible wastewater/sludge treatment practices. 24.1% and 27.2% of the loading TCS was adsorbed to the generated sludge, whereas up to 60% of the loading TCS was biotransformed. Up to 9.9% and 13.0% of TCS loss was attributed to the formation of 2,4-DCP and 2,8-DCDD in chlorination and UV disinfection, respectively. Anaerobic and aerobic sludge digestion processes eliminated up to 23.0% and 56.0% of TCS, respectively. About 7.4% of TCS in aerobic digestion was transformed to methyl triclosan (MTCS). Significant temporal variation of TCS was observed in primary sedimentations, except for chemically enhanced primary treatment that was suggested to be governed by chemical-forced sedimentation. Distribution coefficient (K_d) of TCS was directly correlated to the total organic carbon of the sludge (TOC). Moreover, strong correlation was observed between elimination efficiency in primary sedimentation and loading concentration.

Procedures of determining organic trace compounds in municipal sewage sludge-a review

Sewage sludge is the largest by-product generated during the wastewater treatment process. Since large amounts of sludge are being produced, different ways of disposal have been introduced. One tempting option is to use it as fertilizer in agricultural fields due to its high contents of inorganic nutrients. This, however, can be limited by the amount of trace contaminants in the sewage sludge, containing a variety of microbiological pollutants and pathogens but also inorganic and organic contaminants. The bioavailability and the effects of trace contaminants on the microorganisms of soil are still largely unknown as well as their mixture effects. Therefore, there is a need to analyze the sludge to test its suitability before further use. In this article, a variety of sampling, pretreatment, extraction, and analysis methods have been reviewed. Additionally, different organic trace compounds often found in the sewage sludge and their methods of analysis have been compiled. In addition to traditional Soxhlet extraction, the most common extraction methods of organic contaminants in sludge include ultrasonic extraction (USE), supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), and pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) followed by instrumental analysis based on gas or liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry.

Latent effects of early life stage exposure to triclosan on survival in fathead minnows, Pimephales promelas

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of early life stage triclosan (5-chloro-2-(2,4, dichlorophenoxy)phenol, TCS) exposure on hatching, development, and survival in the fathead minnow, Pimephales promelas. Embryonic minnows were exposed to TCS (50 and 100 µg L^-1) for 10 days followed by 6 weeks depuration. Mortality and morphological deformities were recorded and quantified during exposure and at the end of depuration. No significant effects on embryonic survival, time to reach the eyed stage, or hatching were found. However, at the conclusion of the depuration period, survival was significantly reduced in TCS exposed fish depending on the concentration. Visual inspection of the exposed fish suggests that mortality is related to spinal deformities, emaciation, and reduced foraging ability. Triclosan exhibits deleterious effects in fish at lower concentrations over longer durations than previously reported. Further, mortality in exposed fish 6 weeks after exposure demonstrates the need for various exposure assays to evaluate effects of TCS.

Triclosan: A review on systematic risk assessment and control from the perspective of substance flow analysis

Triclosan (TCS) is a broad spectrum antibacterial agent mainly used in Pharmaceutical and Personal Care Products. Its increasing use over recent decades have raised its concentration in the environment, with commonly detectable levels found along the food web-from aquatic organisms to humans in the ecosystem. To date, there is shortage of information on how to investigate TCS's systematic risk on exposed organisms including humans, due to the paucity of systematic information on TCS flows in the anthroposphere. Therefore, a more holistic approach to mass flow balancing is required, such that the systematic risk of TCS in all environmental matrices are evaluated. From the perspective of Substance Flow Analysis (SFA), this review critically summarizes the current state of knowledge on TCS production, consumption, discharge, occurrence in built and natural environments, its exposure and metabolism in humans, and also the negative effects of TCS on biota and humans. Recent risk concerns have mainly focused on TCS removal efficiencies and metabolism, but less attention is given to the effect of mass flows from source to fate during risk exposure. However, available data for TCS SFA is limited but SFA can derive logical systematic information from limited data currently available for systematic risk assessment and reduction, based on mass flow analysis. In other words, SFA tool can be used to develop a comprehensive flow chart and indicator system for the risk assessment and reduction of TCS flows in the anthroposphere, thereby bridging knowledge gaps to streamline uncertainties related to policy-making on exposure pathways within TCS flow-lines. In the final analysis, specifics on systematic TCS risk assessment via SFA, and areas of improvement on human adaptation to risks posed by emerging contaminants are identified and directions for future research are suggested.

Triclosan in water, implications for human and environmental health

Triclosan (TCS) is a broad spectrum antibacterial agent present as an active ingredient in some personal care products such as soaps, toothpastes and sterilizers. It is an endocrine disrupting compound and its increasing presence in water resources as well as in biosolid-amended soils used in farming, its potential for bioaccumulation in fatty tissues and toxicity in aquatic organisms are a cause for concern to human and environmental health. TCS has also been detected in blood, breast milk, urine and nails of humans. The significance of this is not precisely understood. Data on its bioaccumulation in humans are also lacking. Cell based studies however showed that TCS is a pro-oxidant and may be cytotoxic via a number of mechanisms. Uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation appears to be prevailing as a toxicity mechanism though the compound's role in apoptosis has been cited. TCS is not known to be carcinogenic per se in vitro but has been reported to promote tumourigenesis in the presence of a carcinogen, in mice. Recent laboratory reports appear to support the view that TCS oestrogenicity as well as its anti-oestrogenicity play significant role in cancer progression. Results from epidemiological studies on the effect of TCS on human health have implicated the compound as responsible for certain allergies and reproductive defects. Its presence in chlorinated water also raises toxicity concern for humans as carcinogenic metabolites such as chlorophenols may be generated in the presence of the residual chlorine. In this paper, we carried out a detailed overview of TCS pollution and the implications for human and environmental health.

Uptake, tissue distribution and depuration of triclosan in the guppy Poecilia vivipara acclimated to freshwater

The agent triclosan has been extensively used in different personal care products as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial and preservative agent. Due to its continuous release into the environment, including discharge via wastewater treatment plants, triclosan has been widely detected in aquatic environments. There is growing interest in improving the knowledge about the environmental fate of triclosan due to its possible bioaccumulation and the toxicity it may pose to organisms, such as fish and other non-target species. To investigate the distribution and bioconcentration of triclosan in fish, Poecilia vivipara was exposed to 0.2mgL(-1). Contents of triclosan in whole fish, brain, gonads, liver, muscle and gills were quantified by LC-MS/MS. When lipid normalised concentration was used, the liver exhibited the highest concentration followed by the gills, gonads, brain and muscle tissues. Bioconcentration was increased with time reaching a steady-state around 7-14days for most all tissues. After 24h depuration, triclosan concentrations declined >80% in all tissues except liver, in which triclosan takes longer to be depurated. These results not only clearly indicate that triclosan accumulated in P. vivipara, with tissue-specific bioconcentration factors (BCF) that ranged from 40.2 to 1025.4, but also show that the elimination of triclosan after transferring the fish to triclosan-free freshwater is rapid in all tissues.

Novel associations between contaminant body burdens and biomarkers of reproductive condition in male Common Carp along multiple gradients of contaminant exposure in Lake Mead National Recreation Area, USA

Adult male Common Carp were sampled in 2007/08 over a full reproductive cycle at Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Sites sampled included a stream dominated by treated wastewater effluent, a lake basin receiving the streamflow, an upstream lake basin (reference), and a site below Hoover Dam. Individual body burdens for 252 contaminants were measured, and biological variables assessed included physiological [plasma vitellogenin (VTG), estradiol-17β (E2), 11-ketotestosterone (11KT)] and organ [gonadosomatic index (GSI)] endpoints. Patterns in contaminant composition and biological condition were determined by Principal Component Analysis, and their associations modeled by Principal Component Regression. Three spatially distinct but temporally stable gradients of contaminant distribution were recognized: a contaminant mixture typical of wastewaters (PBDEs, methyl triclosan, galaxolide), PCBs, and DDTs. Two spatiotemporally variable patterns of biological condition were recognized: a primary pattern consisting of reproductive condition variables (11KT, E2, GSI), and a secondary pattern including general condition traits (condition factor, hematocrit, fork length). VTG was low in all fish, indicating low estrogenic activity of water at all sites. Wastewater contaminants associated negatively with GSI, 11KT and E2; PCBs associated negatively with GSI and 11KT; and DDTs associated positively with GSI and 11KT. Regression of GSI on sex steroids revealed a novel, nonlinear association between these variables. Inclusion of sex steroids in the GSI regression on contaminants rendered wastewater contaminants nonsignificant in the model and reduced the influence of PCBs and DDTs. Thus, the influence of contaminants on GSI may have been partially driven by organismal modes-of-action that include changes in sex steroid production. The positive association of DDTs with 11KT and GSI suggests that lifetime, sub-lethal exposures to DDTs have effects on male carp opposite of those reported by studies where exposure concentrations were relatively high. Lastly, this study highlighted advantages of multivariate/multiple regression approaches for exploring associations between complex contaminant mixtures and gradients and reproductive condition in wild fishes.

GC/MS analysis of triclosan and its degradation by-products in wastewater and sludge samples from different treatments

A gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS)-based method was developed for simultaneous determination of triclosan (TCS) and its degradation products including 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP), 2,8-dichlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (2,8-DCDD), and methyl triclosan (MTCS) in wastewater and sludge samples. The method provides satisfactory detection limit, accuracy, precision and recovery especially for samples with complicated matrix such as sewage sludge. Liquid-liquid extraction and accelerated solvent extraction (ASE) methods were applied for the extraction, and column chromatography was employed for the sample cleanup. Analysis was performed by GC/MS in the selected ion monitoring (SIM) mode. The method was successfully applied to wastewater and sludge samples from three different municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Satisfactory mean recoveries were obtained as 91(±4)-106(±7)%, 82(±3)-87(±4)%, 86(±6)-87(±8)%, and 88(±4)-105(±3)% in wastewater and 88(±5)-96(±8)%, 84(±2)-87(±3)%, 84(±7)-89(±4)%, and 88(±3)-97(±5)% in sludge samples for TCS, 2,4-DCP, 2,8-DCDD, and MTCS, respectively. TCS degradation products were detected based on the type of the wastewater and sludge treatment. 2,8-DCDD was detected in the plant utilizing UV disinfection at the mean level of 20.3(±4.8) ng/L. 2,4-DCP was identified in chemically enhanced primary treatment (CEPT) applying chlorine disinfection at the mean level of 16.8(±4.5) ng/L). Besides, methyl triclosan (MTCS) was detected in the wastewater collected after biological treatment (10.7 ± 3.3 ng/L) as well as in sludge samples that have undergone aerobic digestion at the mean level of 129.3(±17.2) ng/g dry weight (dw).

Triclosan: current status, occurrence, environmental risks and bioaccumulation potential

Triclosan (TCS) is a multi-purpose antimicrobial agent used as a common ingredient in everyday household personal care and consumer products. The expanded use of TCS provides a number of pathways for the compound to enter the environment and it has been detected in sewage treatment plant effluents; surface; ground and drinking water. The physico-chemical properties indicate the bioaccumulation and persistence potential of TCS in the environment. Hence, there is an increasing concern about the presence of TCS in the environment and its potential negative effects on human and animal health. Nevertheless, scarce monitoring data could be one reason for not prioritizing TCS as emerging contaminant. Conventional water and wastewater treatment processes are unable to completely remove the TCS and even form toxic intermediates. Considering the worldwide application of personal care products containing TCS and inefficient removal and its toxic effects on aquatic organisms, the compound should be considered on the priority list of emerging contaminants and its utilization in all products should be regulated.

Analytical performance of two miniaturised extraction methods for triclosan and methyltriclosan, in fish roe and surimi samples

A new and reliable miniaturised QuEChERS-based extraction method combined with a dispersive SPE cleanup procedure for extracting triclosan and methyltriclosan from fish roe and surimi samples was proposed. The effectiveness of different extraction/partition conditions for QuEChERS method was systematically investigated, and the use of acetonitrile extraction solvent and MgSO4, PSA, C18 and Florisil as cleanup reagents was recommended in the final method. Other method based on ultrasonic extraction with ethylacetate and clean-up with SPE was also evaluated for these samples. Different polymeric and silica sorbents for clean up were tested and the combination of Florisil and PSA was finally selected. The performance of these miniaturised sample preparation methods combined with GC-MS with quadrupole detection were compared. Extraction efficiency as well as cleaning effectiveness, laboriousness and speed were taken as criteria for method evaluation. Satisfactory validation parameters, such as linearity, recovery, precision and LODs and LOQs for both developed analytical methods were obtained from fish roe and surimi samples. Finally, both methods were applied to real samples. The sensitivity of the proposed methods was good enough to ensure reliable determination of target analytes at concentration levels commonly found in this kind of samples.

Slow O-demethylation of methyl triclosan to triclosan, which is rapidly glucuronidated and sulfonated in channel catfish liver and intestine

The antibacterial personal care product triclosan is discharged in municipal waste, and converted in part by bacteria in sewage sludge and soil to its more lipid-soluble methyl ether, methyl triclosan. Triclosan and methyl triclosan have been detected in water, sediment, fish and invertebrates near sewage treatment facilities. Understanding the biotransformation of methyl triclosan and triclosan in a model food fish, the channel catfish, will be of value in assessing the likelihood that these compounds will bioaccumulate in exposed fish, and therefore potentially pass up the food chain. We hypothesize that cytochrome P450 will catalyze the O-demethylation of methyl triclosan to yield triclosan, which is likely to undergo glucuronidation or sulfonation of the phenolic hydroxyl group. Conversion of methyl triclosan to triclosan was measured by LC/MS/MS following aerobic incubation of varying concentrations of methyl triclosan with NADPH and hepatic and intestinal microsomes from untreated, 3-methylcholanthrene-treated (10 mg/kg, i.p.) or PCB-126-treated (0.1 mg/kg, i.p.) channel catfish (n=4 per treatment group). The K(m) values for methyl triclosan were similar for untreated, 3-methylcholanthrene-treated and PCB-126-treated catfish liver microsomes, ranging from 80 to 250 μM. V(max) values for O-demethylation ranged from 30 to 150 pmol/min/mg protein, with no significant differences between controls, PCB-126-treated or 3-methylcholanthrene-treated fish, suggesting that methyl triclosan O-demethylation was not a CYP1-catalyzed reaction. Methyl triclosan O-demethylation activities in intestinal microsomes were similar to or lower than those found with liver microsomes. The calculated rate of O-demethylation of methyl triclosan in catfish liver at 1 μM, a concentration reported in exposed fish, and 21°C, an early summer water temperature, is 0.10 pmol/min/mg protein. This slow rate of metabolism suggests that upon continued exposure, methyl triclosan may bioaccumulate in the channel catfish. Triclosan itself, however, was readily glucuronidated by hepatic and intestinal microsomes and sulfonated by hepatic and intestinal cytosol. Triclosan glucuronidation followed Michaelis-Menten kinetics when rates were measured across a concentration range of 5-1000 μM, whereas triclosan sulfonation exhibited substrate inhibition at concentrations above 10-20 μM in both intestinal and hepatic cytosol. Based on the enzyme kinetic constants measured in hepatic and intestinal fractions at 21°C, triclosan at 1 μM could be glucuronidated at rates of 23 and 3.2 pmol/min/mg protein respectively in liver and intestine, and sulfonated at rates of 277 (liver) and 938 (intestine) pmol/min/mg protein. These rates are much higher than the rates of demethylation of methyl triclosan, and suggest that triclosan would be rapidly cleared and unlikely to bioaccumulate in catfish tissues.

In vitro effects of triclosan and methyl-triclosan on the marine gastropod Haliotis tuberculata

Triclosan (2,4,4'-trichloro-2'-hydroxy-diphenyl ether; TCS) is an antibacterial agent incorporated in a wide variety of household and personal care products. Because of its partial elimination in sewage treatment plants, TCS is commonly detected in natural waters and sediments. Moreover, due to its high hydrophobicity, TCS accumulates in fatty tissues in various aquatic organisms. TCS can be converted into methyl-triclosan (2,4,4'-trichloro-2'-methoxydiphenyl ether; MTCS) after biological methylation. In this study, the acute cytotoxicity of TCS and MTCS in short-term in vitro experiments was assessed on cell cultures from the European abalone Haliotis tuberculata. The results showed that morphology and density of hemocyte are affected from a concentration of 8 μM TCS. Using the XTT reduction assay, TCS has been demonstrated to decrease hemocyte metabolism activity in a dose- and time-dependent exposure. The IC(50) was evaluated at 6 μM for both hemocyte and gill cells after a 24 h-incubation with TCS. A significant cytotoxicity of MTCS was also observed from 4 μM in 24 h-old hemocyte culture. Our results reveal a toxic effect of TCS and MTCS on immune (hemocytes) and/or respiratory cells (gill cells) of the abalone, species living in coastal waters areas and exposed to anthropogenic pollution.

Occurrence and toxicity of antimicrobial triclosan and by-products in the environment

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS

A review was undertaken on the occurrence, toxicity, and degradation of triclosan (TCS; 5-chloro-2,4-dichlorophenoxy)phenol) in the environment. TCS is a synthetic, broad-spectrum antibacterial agent incorporated in a wide variety of household and personal care products such as hand soap, toothpaste, and deodorants but also in textile fibers used in a range of other consumer products (e.g., toys, undergarments and cutting boards among other things).

OCCURRENCE

Because of its partial elimination in sewage treatment plants, most reports describe TCS as one of the most commonly encountered substances in solid and water environmental compartments. It has been detected in a microgram per liter or microgram per kilogram level in sewage treatment plants (influents, effluents, and sludges), natural waters (rivers, lakes, and estuarine waters), and sediments as well as in drinking water.

TOXICITY

Moreover, due to its high hydrophobicity, TCS can accumulate in fatty tissues and has been found in fish and human samples (urine, breast milk, and serum). TCS is known to be biodegradable, photo-unstable, and reactive towards chlorine and ozone.

DISCUSSION

As a consequence, it can be transformed into potentially more toxic and persistent compounds, such as chlorinated phenols and biphenyl ethers after chlorination, methyl triclosan after biological methylation, and chlorinated dibenzodioxins after photooxidation. The toxicity of TCS toward aquatic organisms like fish, crustaceans, and algae has been demonstrated with EC50 values near TCS environmental concentrations. It has even been shown to produce cytotoxic, genotoxic, and endocrine disruptor effects.

CONCLUSION

Furthermore, the excessive use of TCS is suspected to increase the risk of emergence of TCS-resistant bacteria and the selection of resistant strains.

Fate of triclosan and triclocarban in soil columns with and without biosolids surface application

The leaching and transformation behaviors of triclosan (TCS) and triclocarban (TCC) in soil columns (20 cm high, 4 cm in diameter) packed with an agricultural soil (Roxana very fine sandy loam) with and without biosolids surface application were investigated. The column leachates and soil samples were analyzed for TCS, TCC, and their transformation products. Significantly more TCS was transformed compared with TCC. Surface application of biosolids significantly retarded their transformation. Downward movement of TCS and TCC occurred within a 10-cm soil depth. Methyl-TCS was not detectable in the leachates but was detected in the top 5-cm soil layer, with more appearing in the biosolids-applied soil. At the end of the column study, carbanilide (CBA) was the only detectable TCC reductive dechlorination product in the soil. No TCC reductive dechlorination products were detectable in the leachates. Detection of 3,4-dichloroaniline (3,4-DCA) and 4-chloroaniline (4-CA) suggested the occurrence of TCC hydrolysis. Rapid leaching of 4-CA through the soil column was observed. The 3,4-DCA was detected throughout the entire 20-cm depth of the soil column but not in the leachates. The fact that only small percentages of the transformed TCS and TCC appeared, after a 101-d column study, in the forms of the products analyzed suggested that either the investigated transformation pathways were minor pathways or further rapid transformation of those products had occurred.

Patterns of metal composition and biological condition and their association in male common carp across an environmental contaminant gradient in Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Nevada and Arizona, USA

There is a contaminant gradient in Lake Mead National Recreation Area (LMNRA) that is partly driven by municipal and industrial runoff and wastewater inputs via Las Vegas Wash (LVW). Adult male common carp (Cyprinus carpio; 10 fish/site) were collected from LVW, Las Vegas Bay (receiving LVW flow), Overton Arm (OA, upstream reference), and Willow Beach (WB, downstream) in March 2008. Discriminant function analysis was used to describe differences in metal concentrations and biological condition of fish collected from the four study sites, and canonical correlation analysis was used to evaluate the association between metal and biological traits. Metal concentrations were determined in whole-body extracts. Of 63 metals screened, those initially used in the statistical analysis were Ag, As, Ba, Cd, Co, Fe, Hg, Pb, Se, Zn. Biological variables analyzed included total length (TL), Fulton's condition factor, gonadosomatic index (GSI), hematocrit (Hct), and plasma estradiol-17β and 11-ketotestosterone (11kt) concentrations. Analysis of metal composition and biological condition both yielded strong discrimination of fish by site (respective canonical model, p<0.0001). Compared to OA, pairwise Mahalanobis distances between group means were WB<LVB<LVW for metal concentrations and LVB<WB<LVW for biological traits. Respective primary drivers for these separations were Ag, As, Ba, Hg, Pb, Se and Zn; and TL, GSI, 11kt, and Hct. Canonical correlation analysis using the latter variable sets showed they are significantly associated (p<0.0003); with As, Ba, Hg, and Zn, and TL, 11kt, and Hct being the primary contributors to the association. In conclusion, male carp collected along a contaminant gradient in LMNRA have distinct, collection site-dependent metal and morpho-physiological profiles that are significantly associated with each other. These associations suggest that fish health and reproductive condition (as measured by the biological variables evaluated in this study) are influenced by levels of certain metals in the Lake Mead environment.

Triclosan: environmental exposure, toxicity and mechanisms of action

Triclosan [5-chloro-2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)phenol; TCS] is a broad spectrum antibacterial agent used in personal care, veterinary, industrial and household products. TCS is commonly detected in aquatic ecosystems, as it is only partially removed during the wastewater treatment process. Sorption, biodegradation and photolytic degradation mitigate the availability of TCS to aquatic biota; however the by-products such as methyltriclosan and other chlorinated phenols may be more resistant to degradation and have higher toxicity than the parent compound. The continuous exposure of aquatic organisms to TCS, coupled with its bioaccumulation potential, have led to detectable levels of the antimicrobial in a number of aquatic species. TCS has been also detected in breast milk, urine and plasma, with levels of TCS in the blood correlating with consumer use patterns of the antimicrobial. Mammalian systemic toxicity studies indicate that TCS is neither acutely toxic, mutagenic, carcinogenic, nor a developmental toxicant. Recently, however, concern has been raised over TCS's potential for endocrine disruption, as the antimicrobial has been shown to disrupt thyroid hormone homeostasis and possibly the reproductive axis. Moreover, there is strong evidence that aquatic species such as algae, invertebrates and certain types of fish are much more sensitive to TCS than mammals. TCS is highly toxic to algae and exerts reproductive and developmental effects in some fish. The potential for endocrine disruption and antibiotic cross-resistance highlights the importance of the judicious use of TCS, whereby the use of TCS should be limited to applications where it has been shown to be effective.

Reprint of: Removal and formation of chlorinated triclosan derivatives in wastewater treatment plants using chlorine and UV disinfection

Triclosan, a common antimicrobial agent, may react during the disinfection of wastewater with free chlorine to form three chlorinated triclosan derivatives (CTDs). This is of concern because the CTDs may be photochemically transformed to tri- and tetra-chlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins when discharged into natural waters. In this study, wastewater influent, secondary (pre-disinfection) effluent, and final (post-disinfection) effluent samples were collected on two occasions each from two activated sludge wastewater treatment plants, one using chlorine disinfection and one using UV disinfection. Concentrations of triclosan and three CTDs were determined using ultra performance liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry with isotope dilution methodology. Triclosan and the CTDs were detected in every influent sample at levels ranging from 453 to 4530 and 2 to 98 ng L(-1), respectively, though both were efficiently removed from the liquid phase during activated sludge treatment. Triclosan concentrations in the pre-disinfection effluent ranged from 36 to 212 ng L(-1), while CTD concentrations were below the limit of quantification (1 ng L(-1)) for most samples. In the treatment plant that used chlorine disinfection, triclosan concentrations decreased while CTDs were formed during chlorination, as evidenced by CTD levels as high as 22 ng L(-1) in the final effluent. No CTDs were detected in the final effluent of the treatment plant that used UV disinfection. The total CTD concentration in the final effluent of the chlorinating treatment plant reached nearly one third of the triclosan concentration, demonstrating that the chlorine disinfection step played a substantial role in the fate of triclosan in this system.

Removal and formation of chlorinated triclosan derivatives in wastewater treatment plants using chlorine and UV disinfection

Triclosan, a common antimicrobial agent, may react during the disinfection of wastewater with free chlorine to form three chlorinated triclosan derivatives (CTDs). This is of concern because the CTDs may be photochemically transformed to tri- and tetra-chlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins when discharged into natural waters. In this study, wastewater influent, secondary (pre-disinfection) effluent, and final (post-disinfection) effluent samples were collected on two occasions each from two activated sludge wastewater treatment plants, one using chlorine disinfection and one using UV disinfection. Concentrations of triclosan and three CTDs were determined using ultra performance liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry with isotope dilution methodology. Triclosan and the CTDs were detected in every influent sample at levels ranging from 453 to 4530 and 2 to 98 ng L(-1), respectively, though both were efficiently removed from the liquid phase during activated sludge treatment. Triclosan concentrations in the pre-disinfection effluent ranged from 36 to 212 ng L(-1), while CTD concentrations were below the limit of quantification (1 ng L(-1)) for most samples. In the treatment plant that used chlorine disinfection, triclosan concentrations decreased while CTDs were formed during chlorination, as evidenced by CTD levels as high as 22 ng L(-1) in the final effluent. No CTDs were detected in the final effluent of the treatment plant that used UV disinfection. The total CTD concentration in the final effluent of the chlorinating treatment plant reached nearly one third of the triclosan concentration, demonstrating that the chlorine disinfection step played a substantial role in the fate of triclosan in this system.

The hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis in teleosts and amphibians: endocrine disruption and its consequences to natural populations

Teleosts and pond-breeding amphibians may be exposed to a wide variety of anthropogenic, waterborne contaminants that affect the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis. Because thyroid hormone is required for their normal development and reproduction, the potential impact of HPT-disrupting contaminants on natural teleost and amphibian populations raises special concern. There is laboratory evidence indicating that persistent organic pollutants, heavy metals, pharmaceutical and personal care products, agricultural chemicals, and aerospace products may alter HPT activity, development, and reproduction in teleosts and amphibians. However, at present there is no evidence to clearly link contaminant-induced HPT alterations to impairments in teleost or amphibian population health in the field. Also, with the exception of perchlorate for which laboratory studies have shown a direct link between HPT disruption and adverse impacts on development and reproductive physiology, little is known about if or how other HPT-disrupting contaminants affect organismal performance. Future field studies should focus on establishing temporal associations between the presence of HPT-disrupting chemicals, the occurrence of HPT alterations, and adverse effects on development and reproduction in natural populations; as well as determining how complex mixtures of HPT contaminants affect organismal and population health.

Influence of methylation on the antibacterial properties of triclosan in Pasteurella multocida and Pseudomonas aeruginosa variant strains

The opportunistic bacterium Pasteurella multocida is extremely susceptible to the hydrophobic biocide triclosan by virtue of its markedly permeable outer membrane, while the nosocomial pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa is intrinsically resistant to levels far exceeding the triclosan aqueous solubility limit. Widespread incorporation of triclosan in health and personal care products has resulted in its concomitant accumulation with metabolites such as methyl triclosan in environmental and biological systems. The present study was undertaken to investigate the possibility that methylation of triclosan may mitigate its antiseptic efficacy in healthcare settings, as well as represent a potential resistance mechanism. Comparative standardised disc agar diffusion and batch cultural turbidimetric bioassays were employed to assess the relationship between triclosan-susceptible or -resistant bacteria and methyl triclosan. A wild-type P. aeruginosa parental strain and a mutant exhibiting a permeable outer cell envelope phenotype were examined in concert with a refractory wild-type strain sensitised to triclosan susceptibility using outer membrane permeabiliser compound 48/80. All organisms examined were resistant to methyl triclosan, and all organisms excluding P. aeruginosa were susceptible to triclosan over a wide concentration range. The permeable outer membrane phenotype in both mutant and chemically sensitised wild-type strains rendered P. aeruginosa susceptible to triclosan, but not to methyl triclosan. These data support the notion that methylation of triclosan renders the compound unable to inhibit the growth of disparate bacterial pathogens in a manner independent of an intact outer membrane. It can also be concluded that biocide modification may contribute to the intrinsic resistance of P. aeruginosa to triclosan.

Simultaneous quantitation of parabens, triclosan, and methyl triclosan in indoor house dust using solid phase extraction and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry

An integrated analytical method for the simultaneous determination of five parabens (methyl-, ethyl-, propyl-, butyl-, and benzyl-), triclosan, and methyl triclosan in indoor house dust was developed based on gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric technique (GC/MS). Analytes were extracted from dust samples by sonication. After sample cleanup by solid-phase extraction (SPE), the extracts were derivatized with N-methyl-N-(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (MSTFA) and then analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with ion trap mass spectrometry operated in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. For quantitation, isotope-labelled internal standards were used for each corresponding target analyte. Only 0.05 g of dust sample was needed for the analysis. Method detection limits ranged from 6.5 to 10 ng/g, and absolute recoveries from 74% to 92%. The developed method demonstrated good repeatability and reproducibility, with relative standard deviations (RSDs) less than 16% for all the analytes. The analytes were determined in dust samples collected using two vacuum sampling methods from 63 Canadian homes: a sample of fresh or "active" dust (FD) collected using a Pullman-Holt vacuum sampler, and a composite sample taken from the household vacuum cleaner (HD). Methyl paraben, propyl paraben, and triclosan were detected in all HD and FD samples. HD samples yielded median values for methyl paraben, propyl paraben, and triclosan of 1080, 463, and 378 ng/g, respectively, which were comparable to the FD sample medians of 1120, 618 and 571 ng/g. Ethyl paraben was detected at frequencies of 89% in FD and 73% in HD samples, with median values of 52 and 25 ng/g, respectively. Butyl paraben was detected at frequencies of 44% in FD and 75% in HD samples, with median values of <10 and 59 ng/g, respectively. Benzyl paraben and methyl triclosan were not detected in any of the samples collected by either method. Samples collected according to the fresh dust protocol agreed with the household vacuum samples 90% of the time. Widely scattered concentration levels were observed for target analytes from this preliminary set of 63 Canadian samples, which suggests a wide variability in Canadian household exposures to these chemicals.

Probabilistic risk evaluation for triclosan in surface water, sediments, and aquatic biota tissues

Triclosan, an antimicrobial compound used in personal care products, occurs in the aquatic environment due to residual concentrations in municipal wastewater treatment effluent. We evaluate triclosan-related risks to the aquatic environment, for aquatic and sediment-dwelling organisms and for aquatic-feeding wildlife, based on measured and modeled exposure concentrations. Triclosan concentrations in surface water, sediment, and biota tissue are predicted using a fugacity model parameterized to run probabilistically, to supplement the limited available measurements of triclosan in sediment and tissue. Aquatic toxicity is evaluated based on a species sensitivity distribution, which is extrapolated to sediment and tissues assuming equilibrium partitioning. A probabilistic wildlife exposure model is also used, and estimated doses are compared with wildlife toxicity benchmarks identified from a review of published and proprietary studies. The 95th percentiles of measured and modeled triclosan concentrations in surface water, sediment, and biota tissues are consistently below the 5th percentile of the respective species sensitivity distributions, indicating that, under most scenarios, adverse affects due to triclosan are unlikely.

Sources and distribution of organic compounds using passive samplers in Lake Mead national recreation area, Nevada and Arizona, and their implications for potential effects on aquatic biota

The delineation of lateral and vertical gradients of organic contaminants in lakes is hampered by low concentrationsand nondetection of many organic compounds in water. Passive samplers (semipermeable membrane devices [SPMDs] and polar organic chemical integrative samplers [POCIS]) are well suited for assessing gradients because they can detect synthetic organic compounds (SOCs) at pg L(-1) concentrations. Semi-permeable membrane devices and POCIS were deployed in Lake Mead, at two sites in Las Vegas Wash, at four sites across Lake Mead, and in the Colorado River downstream from Hoover Dam. Concentrations of hydrophobic SOCs were highest in Las Vegas Wash downstream from waste water and urban inputs and at 8 m depth in Las Vegas Bay (LVB) where Las Vegas Wash enters Lake Mead. The distribution of hydrophobic SOCs showed a lateral distribution across 10 km of Lake Mead from LVB to Boulder Basin. To assess possible vertical gradient SOCs, SPMDs were deployed at 4-m intervals in 18 m of water in LVB. Fragrances and legacy SOCs were found at the greatest concentrations at the deepest depth. The vertical gradient of SOCs indicated that contaminants were generally confined to within 6 m of the lake bottom during the deployment interval. The high SOC concentrations, warmer water temperatures, and higher total dissolved solids concentrations at depth are indicative of a plume of Las Vegas Wash water moving along the lake bottom. The lateral and vertical distribution of SOCs is discussed in the context of other studies that have shown impaired health of fish exposed to SOCs.

Dioxin photoproducts of triclosan and its chlorinated derivatives in sediment cores

Triclosan, a widely used antimicrobial, is known to undergo phototransformation in aqueous solution to form 2,8-dichlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (2,8-DCDD). Two sediment cores from a wastewater-impacted depositional zone of the Mississippi River were analyzed for triclosan by ultra performance liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS-Q(3)) and for a suite of polychlorinated dioxins and furans by high resolution gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HRGC-MS) to provide evidence of this photoreaction in the environment. 2,8-DCDD was detected at levels that trended with the historical use of triclosan since its introduction in the 1960s. Three other dioxin congeners, 2,3,7-TCDD, 1,2,8-TriCDD, and 1,2,3,8-TCDD, which are known photoproducts of chlorinated derivatives of triclosan, were also detected with similar trend profiles. These four congeners comprised the majority of di- through tetra-chlorinated dioxins. The trend profile of these specific dioxin congeners did not correlate with the trend profile of the higher-chlorinated dioxin homologues or any chlorinated furan homologues, suggesting a unique source. These results are fully consistent with the phototransformation of triclosan and its chlorinated derivatives that form during wastewater chlorine disinfection as the source of 2,8-DCDD, 2,3,7-TriCDD, 1,2,8-TriCDD, and 1,2,3,8-TCDD in this aquatic environment. As the levels of triclosan-derived dioxins increased over time and the total level of chlorinated dioxins decreased, the contribution of triclosan-derived dioxins to the total dioxin pool increased to as high as 31% by mass in recent years, indicating that their contribution to total dioxin toxicity may need consideration.

Flame-retardants and other organohalogens detected in sewage sludge by electron capture negative ion mass spectrometry

Numerous halogenated organic compounds have been identified as pollutants of concern. Those with high persistence and hydrophobicity may concentrate in biota, sediments, and wastewater sludge. Nonetheless, the release to the environment of many remains largely unrecognized. Stabilized sewage sludge (biosolids) is increasingly being land-applied as a soil amendment. However, understanding the risks of land application has been hampered by the compositional complexity of biosolids. Compound specific analytical approaches may also underestimate environmental impact of land application by overlooking additional contaminants. However, utilizing an alternative analytical approach based on compound functional group (i.e., alkyl halides) enhanced the information content of the analysis. To illustrate, 49 organohalogens were observed by gas chromatography with electron capture negative ionization mass spectrometry in sewage sludge; 23 identified as flame-retardants: that is, PBDEs, hexabromocyclododecane, 2-ethylhexyl 2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate (TBB), 2-ethylhexyl tetrabromophthalate, decabromodiphenyl ethane, 1,2-bis (2,4,6-tribromophenoxy) ethane and Dechlorane Plus. Concentrations ranged from 25 to 1,600,000 ng g(-1) total organic carbon. An additional 16 compounds were tentatively identified as triclosan, chlorinated-methoxy triclosan, chlorinated pesticides, hexachlorobiphenyl, TBB degradation products, brominated furans and nonabromochlorodiphenyl ethers. Such an analytical approach may enhance evaluations of the risks associated with biosolids land-application and assist in prioritizing specific chemicals for future environmental fate and toxicology studies.