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Dermitzakis I, Theotokis P, Axarloglou E, Delilampou E, Manthou ME, Meditskou S. Effects of hazardous chemicals on secondary sex ratio: A comprehensive review. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 361:142467. [PMID: 38810798 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
The secondary sex ratio (SSR), defined as the ratio of male to female offspring at birth, has garnered significant scientific interest due to its potential impact on population dynamics and evolution. In recent years, there has been a growing concern regarding the potential consequences of environmental chemicals on the SSR, given their widespread exposure and potential enduring ramifications on the reproductive system. While SSR serves as an indicator of health, ongoing research and scientific inquiry are being conducted to explore the potential relationship between chemicals and offspring ratio. Although some studies have suggested a possible correlation, others have yielded inconclusive results, indicating that the topic is intricate and still needs to be elucidated. The precise mechanism by which chemical agents exert their influence on the SSR remains ambiguous, with disruption of the endocrine system being a prominent justification. In light of the complex interplay between chemical exposure and SSR, the present review aims to comprehensively examine and synthesize existing scientific literature to gain a deeper understanding of how specific chemical exposures may impact SSR. Insights into chemical hazards that shift SSR patterns or trends could guide prevention strategies, including legislative bans of certain chemicals, to minimize environmental and public health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iasonas Dermitzakis
- Department of Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Paschalis Theotokis
- Department of Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Evangelos Axarloglou
- Department of Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Efthymia Delilampou
- Department of Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Maria Eleni Manthou
- Department of Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Soultana Meditskou
- Department of Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece.
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2
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Mobasher MA, Alsirhani AM, Alwaili MA, Baakdah F, Eid TM, Alshanbari FA, Alzahri RY, Alkhodair SA, El-Said KS. Annona squamosa Fruit Extract Ameliorates Lead Acetate-Induced Testicular Injury by Modulating JAK-1/STAT-3/SOCS-1 Signaling in Male Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5562. [PMID: 38791600 PMCID: PMC11122399 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105562] [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: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Lead (Pb) is a common pollutant that is not biodegradable and gravely endangers the environment and human health. Annona squamosa fruit has a wide range of medicinal uses owing to its phytochemical constituents. This study evaluated the effect of treatment with A. squamosa fruit extract (ASFE) on testicular toxicity induced in male rats by lead acetate. The metal-chelating capacity and phytochemical composition of ASFE were determined. The LD50 of ASFE was evaluated by probit analysis. Molecular docking simulations were performed using Auto Dock Vina. Forty male Sprague Dawley rats were equally divided into the following groups: Gp1, a negative control group; Gp2, given ASFE (350 mg/kg body weight (b. wt.)) (1/10 of LD50); Gp3, given lead acetate (PbAc) solution (100 mg/kg b. wt.); and Gp4, given PbAc as in Gp3 and ASFE as in Gp2. All treatments were given by oro-gastric intubation daily for 30 days. Body weight changes, spermatological parameters, reproductive hormone levels, oxidative stress parameters, and inflammatory biomarkers were evaluated, and molecular and histopathological investigations were performed. The results showed that ASFE had promising metal-chelating activity and phytochemical composition. The LD50 of ASFE was 3500 mg/kg b. wt. The docking analysis showed that quercetin demonstrated a high binding affinity for JAK-1 and STAT-3 proteins, and this could make it a more promising candidate for targeting the JAK-1/STAT-3 pathway than others. The rats given lead acetate had defective testicular tissues, with altered molecular, biochemical, and histological features, as well as impaired spermatological characteristics. Treatment with ASFE led to a significant mitigation of these dysfunctions and modulated the JAK-1/STAT-3/SOCS-1 axis in the rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maysa A. Mobasher
- Department of Pathology, Biochemistry Division, College of Medicine, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Alaa Muqbil Alsirhani
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Jouf University, Sakaka 2014, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Maha Abdullah Alwaili
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Fadi Baakdah
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
- Special Infectious Agents Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Thamir M Eid
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (T.M.E.); (S.A.A.)
| | - Fahad A. Alshanbari
- Department of Medical Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Reem Yahya Alzahri
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Sahar Abdulrahman Alkhodair
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (T.M.E.); (S.A.A.)
| | - Karim Samy El-Said
- Biochemistry Division, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
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3
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Stajnko A, Palir N, Snoj Tratnik J, Mazej D, Sešek Briški A, Runkel AA, Horvat M, Falnoga I. Genetic susceptibility to low-level lead exposure in men: Insights from ALAD polymorphisms. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2024; 256:114315. [PMID: 38168581 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2023.114315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The genetic susceptibility to low-level lead (Pb) exposure in general populations has been poorly investigated and is limited to the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs1800435 in the delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase gene (ALAD). This study explored associations between ten selected ALAD SNPs with Pb concentrations in blood (BPb) and urine (UPb) among 281 men aged 18-49 years from Slovenia, including 20 individuals residing in a Pb-contaminated area. The geometric mean (range) of BPb and UPb were 19.6 (3.86-84.7) μg/L and 0.69 (0.09-3.82) μg/L SG, respectively. The possible genetic influence was assessed by examining SNP haplotypes, individual SNPs, and the combination of two SNPs using multiple linear regression analyses. While no significant associations were found for haplotypes, the presence of variant alleles of rs1800435 and rs1805312 resulted in an 11% and 13% decrease in BPb, respectively, while the presence of variant allele of rs1139488 (homozygous only) exhibited significant 20% increase in BPb, respectively. Additionally, variant allele of rs1800435 resulted in lower UPb. Individual SNPs in the model explained only around 1 additional percentage point of BPb variability. In contrast, combination analyses identified six combinations of two SNPs, which significantly explained 3-22 additional percentage points of BPb variability, with the highest explanatory power observed for the rs1800435-rs1139488 and rs1139488-rs1805313 combinations. Moreover, excluding participants from the Pb-contaminated area indicated that exposure level influenced SNPs-Pb associations. Our results confirm the importance of the ALAD gene in Pb kinetics even at low exposure levels. Additionally, we demonstrated that identifying individuals with specific combinations of ALAD SNPs explained a larger part of Pb variability, suggesting that these combinations, pending confirmation in other populations and further evaluation through mechanistic studies, may serve as superior susceptibility biomarker in Pb exposure compared to individual SNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Stajnko
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova Cesta 39, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Neža Palir
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova Cesta 39, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia; Jožef Stefan International Postgraduate School, Jamova Cesta 39, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Janja Snoj Tratnik
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova Cesta 39, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Darja Mazej
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova Cesta 39, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Alenka Sešek Briški
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Njegoševa 4, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Agneta Annika Runkel
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova Cesta 39, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Milena Horvat
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova Cesta 39, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia; Jožef Stefan International Postgraduate School, Jamova Cesta 39, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Ingrid Falnoga
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova Cesta 39, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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4
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Samir AM, Korany AM, Foaad H, Manawil M. Male reproductive hormone disorders among copper smelter workers. Toxicol Ind Health 2024; 40:52-58. [PMID: 37983667 DOI: 10.1177/07482337231215864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Male workers in copper smelting are exposed to copper, lead, and arsenic. This study aimed to assess the effects of combined exposure to these metals on male reproductive hormone levels and assesses malondialdehyde (MDA) as an oxidative stress parameter. The study was conducted on 40 copper smelter workers compared with 40 non-exposed workers. Laboratory investigations included levels of serum copper, blood lead, serum arsenic, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, and MDA. Levels of copper, arsenic, lead, FSH, and LH were significantly increased compared to controls. However, a statistically significant decrease in the mean value of testosterone was found among exposed workers. Positive correlations between serum copper and both serum FSH and MDA levels were statistically significant as were correlations between serum arsenic and MDA levels. Testosterone levels showed significant negative correlations with both copper and arsenic among exposed workers. A linear regression model of copper, arsenic, and lead levels as independent variables with FSH, LH, and testosterone as dependent variables revealed a significant negative association between serum copper and testosterone levels. The current study concluded that combined exposure to copper, arsenic, and lead in secondary copper smelters had a negative impact on male reproductive hormone levels that may be mediated by oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisha M Samir
- Department of Occupational & Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed M Korany
- Department of Occupational & Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hisham Foaad
- Department of Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marie Manawil
- Department of Occupational & Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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5
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Virtanen HE, Rodprasert W, Toppari J. Deteriorating Semen Quality: The Role of the Environment. Semin Reprod Med 2023; 41:226-240. [PMID: 38499038 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1782151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Since the end of the last century, several reports have suggested that semen quality is declining, especially in Western countries. Furthermore, cross-sectional studies using similar protocols have suggested regional differences in semen quality of young and fertile men. Reasons for these regional differences and local adverse trends in semen quality are unknown, but environmental factors are suspected to have a role. Besides adulthood environmental exposures, those occurring during testicular development may also affect semen quality. Longitudinal follow-up studies and mixture risk analyses are needed to study the effect of fetal, childhood, and adult life environment on semen quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena E Virtanen
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology and Centre for Population Health Research, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Wiwat Rodprasert
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology and Centre for Population Health Research, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Jorma Toppari
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology and Centre for Population Health Research, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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6
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Balachandar R, Viramgami A, Bagepally BS, Upadhyay K. Association Between Blood Lead Levels and Thyroid Function: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Indian J Clin Biochem 2023; 38:426-436. [PMID: 37746535 PMCID: PMC10516803 DOI: 10.1007/s12291-023-01113-8] [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: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Chronic Lead (Pb) exposure is associated with disrupting certain endocrine levels and is referred to as an endocrine disruptor. Thyroid hormones, involved in regulating numerous physiological functions, are reported with conflicting associations with chronic Pb exposure. This study broadly evaluated the association between long-term lead exposure and thyroid function parameters. In this systematic review, the observational studies documenting the changes in thyroid function parameters between the chronically Pb-exposed and controls were systematically identified from PubMed-Medline, Scopus, and Embase digital databases from the beginning to March 31, 2022. The protocol was previously registered with PROSPERO (ID: CRD42022315520) and executed following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. The random-effects model was used to analyze the mean differences in thyroid function parameters between groups. The classical I2 statistic was applied to assess heterogeneity, while the Newcastle Ottawa Scale was used to assess the risk of various biases. Where data allowed, sub-group, sensitivity, and meta-regression analyses were carried out. The current systematic review included fifteen observational studies. The Pb-exposed have a higher mean blood Pb level [i.e. 28.07 (95% CI 21.43-34.72) µg/dl], significantly higher free T3 [(i.e. 0.48 pg/dl (95% CI 0.05-0.95)] and trend of higher T3. T4, FT4, and TSH levels than controls with high heterogeneity (I2 > 85%). Considering the important role of thyroid hormone in multiple biological functions, the present findings emphasize the requisite for high-quality studies to investigate the association between levels of thyroid function parameters among individuals known for cumulative exposure to Pb. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12291-023-01113-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Balachandar
- ICMR-National Institute of Occupational Health, Meghaninagar, Ahmedabad, 380016 India
| | - Ankit Viramgami
- ICMR-National Institute of Occupational Health, Meghaninagar, Ahmedabad, 380016 India
| | | | - Kuldip Upadhyay
- ICMR-National Institute of Occupational Health, Meghaninagar, Ahmedabad, 380016 India
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7
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Osowski A, Fedoniuk L, Bilyk Y, Fedchyshyn O, Sas M, Kramar S, Lomakina Y, Fik V, Chorniy S, Wojtkiewicz J. Lead Exposure Assessment and Its Impact on the Structural Organization and Morphological Peculiarities of Rat Ovaries. TOXICS 2023; 11:769. [PMID: 37755779 PMCID: PMC10536919 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11090769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Lead is known to be highly toxic to humans, causing various disorders infetal development. An experiment was conducted to examine the effects of lead acetate on the structural organization of female rat ovaries. The study involved 40 non-linear female rats divided into four groups: a control group, a low-dose group, a moderate-dose group, and a high-dose group. The rats were given lead acetate solutions in varying doses for 30 days, and their ovarian tissue was examined using light microscopy.The results showed that increasing doses of lead acetate led to morphological changes in the cortex and medulla of the rat ovaries. The changes were characterized by a decrease in ovarian mass, alterations in the thickness of the tunica albuginea (protein envelope), and a reduction in the number of follicles. Light microscopy revealed that exposure to lead acetate resulted in a significant decrease in the number of follicles in all experimental groups, with the high-dose group experiencing the most significant decrease.These findings suggest that lead acetate has a dose-dependent negative impact on the morphology and function of female rat ovaries. Further studies are needed to investigate the potential impact of lead on human ovarian tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Osowski
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 2 Oczapowskiego Street, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Larysa Fedoniuk
- Histology and Embryology Department, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, 1 Maidan Voli Street, 46001 Ternopil, Ukraine
| | - Yaroslav Bilyk
- Histology and Embryology Department, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, 1 Maidan Voli Street, 46001 Ternopil, Ukraine
| | - Olena Fedchyshyn
- Histology and Embryology Department, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, 1 Maidan Voli Street, 46001 Ternopil, Ukraine
| | - Mykhailo Sas
- Histology and Embryology Department, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, 1 Maidan Voli Street, 46001 Ternopil, Ukraine
| | - Solomiia Kramar
- Histology and Embryology Department, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, 1 Maidan Voli Street, 46001 Ternopil, Ukraine
| | - Yuliia Lomakina
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Bukovinian State Medical University, 15 Yu. Fedkvich Street, 58000 Chernivtsi, Ukraine
| | - Volodymyr Fik
- Department of Normal Anatomy, Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, 69 Pekarska Street, 79010 Lviv, Ukraine
| | - Sofija Chorniy
- Histology and Embryology Department, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, 1 Maidan Voli Street, 46001 Ternopil, Ukraine
| | - Joanna Wojtkiewicz
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 2 Oczapowskiego Street, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
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8
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Lazarus M, Sergiel A, Ferenčaković M, Orct T, Kapronczai L, Pađen L, Janz DM, Reljić S, Zwijacz-Kozica T, Zięba F, Selva N, Huber Đ. Stress and reproductive hormones in hair associated with contaminant metal(loid)s of European brown bear (Ursus arctos). CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 325:138354. [PMID: 36907481 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138354] [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: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Environmental contaminants like arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg) or lead (Pb) may disrupt hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axes due to their endocrine toxicity potential. Resulting long-term physiological stress or adverse effects on wildlife reproduction and ontogeny may cause detrimental effects at the individual and population levels. However, data on environmental metal(loid)s' impact on reproductive and stress hormones in wildlife, especially large terrestrial carnivores, are scarce. Hair cortisol, progesterone and testosterone concentrations were quantified and modelled with hair As, Cd, total Hg, Pb, biological, environmental and sampling factors to test for potential effects in free-ranging brown bears (Ursus arctos) from Croatia (N = 46) and Poland (N = 27). Testosterone in males (N = 48) and females (N = 25) showed positive associations with Hg and an interaction between Cd and Pb, but a negative association with interaction between age and Pb. Higher testosterone was found in hair during its growth phase compared to quiescent phase. Body condition index was negatively associated with hair cortisol and positively associated with hair progesterone. Year and conditions of sampling were important for cortisol variation, while maturity stage for progesterone variation (lower concentrations in cubs and yearlings compared to subadult and adult bears). These findings suggest that environmental levels of Cd, Hg and Pb might influence the HPG axis in brown bears. Hair was shown to be a reliable non-invasive sample for investigating hormonal fluctuations in wildlife while addressing individual and sampling specificities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Lazarus
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Agnieszka Sergiel
- Institute of Nature Conservation of Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland.
| | | | - Tatjana Orct
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | | | - Lana Pađen
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - David M Janz
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada; Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada.
| | - Slaven Reljić
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Croatia.
| | | | | | - Nuria Selva
- Institute of Nature Conservation of Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland; Departamento de Ciencias Integradas, Facultad de Ciencias Experimentales, Centro de Estudios Avanzados en Física, Matemáticas y Computación, Universidad de Huelva, Huelva, Spain.
| | - Đuro Huber
- Institute of Nature Conservation of Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Croatia.
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Gladović A, Petrović B, Vukelić D, Buha Djordjevic A, Ćurčić M, Đukić-Ćosić D, Šoštarić A, Antonijević B, Bulat Z. Carcinogenic and human health risk assessment of children's and adults' exposure to toxic metal(oid)s from air PM 10 in critical sites of the Republic of Serbia. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:61753-61765. [PMID: 36932311 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26375-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
With global urbanization and industrialization, air pollution has become an inevitable problem. Among air pollutants, toxic metals bound to particulate matter (PM) have a high hazardous potential, contributing to the development of several diseases, including various types of cancer. Due to PM pollution, Serbia is considered to be among the most polluted countries in Europe. Therefore, the objective of the study was to assess and characterize the non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks of children's and adults' exposure to metal(oid)s (Pb, Cd, Ni, and As) bound to PM10 in five of the most polluted areas in the Republic of Serbia (Subotica, Smederevo, Bor, Valjevo, and Kraljevo). Non-carcinogenic (HQ and HI) and carcinogenic risk (CR) were calculated using USEPA methodology. Our results show that PM10 concentrations exceeded the annual limit of 40 μg/m3 at four out of five monitoring sites (ranging from 44.33 to 63.25 μg/m3). Results obtained from Bor monitoring station show that safe limits were exceeded for both children and adults, indicating an unacceptable risk (> 1) obtained for inhalation exposure to the As (HQ = 6.14) and Cd (HQ = 1.17), while total HI was 7.43, which characterized the risk as unacceptable. For the same station, the CR value was 1.44E-04 (> 1 × 10-4). In other sites, the risks were acceptable. The characterized risk from exposure to the toxic elements via PM10 in critical locations in Serbia contributes to improving air quality by requiring regulatory organs to take new actions and adopt new measures to reduce air pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Gladović
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović" and Center for Toxicological Risk Assessment, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Bojana Petrović
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović" and Center for Toxicological Risk Assessment, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dragana Vukelić
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović" and Center for Toxicological Risk Assessment, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Aleksandra Buha Djordjevic
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović" and Center for Toxicological Risk Assessment, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marijana Ćurčić
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović" and Center for Toxicological Risk Assessment, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Danijela Đukić-Ćosić
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović" and Center for Toxicological Risk Assessment, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Andrej Šoštarić
- Center for Eco-Toxicology, Unit for Air Quality Monitoring, Institute of Public Health of Belgrade, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Biljana Antonijević
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović" and Center for Toxicological Risk Assessment, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Zorica Bulat
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović" and Center for Toxicological Risk Assessment, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
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10
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Giulioni C, Maurizi V, De Stefano V, Polisini G, Teoh JYC, Milanese G, Galosi AB, Castellani D. The influence of lead exposure on male semen parameters: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Reprod Toxicol 2023; 118:108387. [PMID: 37119974 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108387] [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: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) is a metal with a widespread diffusion in the environment. Pb tends to accumulate in the human body and, as a consequence, semen alterations can be present in exposed workers or general population. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effect on semen parameters among healthy men exposed to environmental or occupational Pb. A systematic literature search was performed on November 12th, 2022, through MEDLINE via PubMed, Scopus, and Embase. Observational studies comparing semen parameters in men exposed to Pb and those not exposed were included. Sperm parameters were pooled using the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel Method with a random effect model. The weighted mean difference (WMD) was used as a summary measure. Statistical significance was set at p-value <0.05 Ten papers were included. Pb exposure was associated with a significant reduction in semen volume (WMD -0.76ml.95% CI -1.47, -0.05, p=0.04), sperm concentration (WMD -0.63 ×106/ml 95% CI -1.15, -0.12, p=0.02), total sperm count (WMD -1.94 ×106 95% CI -3. 77, -0.11, p=0.04), sperm vitality (WMD -2.18% 95% CI -3.92, -0.45, p=0.01), and total sperm motility (WMD -1.31% 95% CI -2.33, -0.30, p=0.01). No difference was found in sperm normal morphology, progressive motility, and seminal viscosity. This review demonstrated the negative effect of Pb exposure on most of semen parameters. Given the diffuse exposure to this metal of the general population, public health concerns should be considered and exposed workers should be assessed to evaluate their semen. DATA AVAILABILITY STATEMENT: Data will be provided by the corresponding author upon a reasonable request.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Giulioni
- Polytechnic University of Marche, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria della Marche, Department of Urology, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Valentina Maurizi
- Polytechnic University of Marche, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria della Marche, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Ancona, Italy
| | - Virgilio De Stefano
- Polytechnic University of Marche, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria della Marche, Department of Urology, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giordano Polisini
- Polytechnic University of Marche, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria della Marche, Department of Urology, Ancona, Italy
| | - Jeremy Yuen-Chun Teoh
- S.H. Ho Urology Centre, Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Giulio Milanese
- Polytechnic University of Marche, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria della Marche, Department of Urology, Ancona, Italy
| | - Andrea Benedetto Galosi
- Polytechnic University of Marche, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria della Marche, Department of Urology, Ancona, Italy
| | - Daniele Castellani
- Polytechnic University of Marche, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria della Marche, Department of Urology, Ancona, Italy
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Vukelić D, Djordjevic AB, Anđelković M, Repić A, Baralić K, Ćurčić M, Đukić-Ćosić D, Boričić N, Antonijević B, Bulat Z. Derivation of benchmark doses for male reproductive toxicity in a subacute low-level Pb exposure model in rats. Toxicol Lett 2023; 375:69-76. [PMID: 36610527 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2023.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The objectives of the study were to simulate low-level Pb exposure scenario in an animal model and to examine reproductive adverse effects. Based on obtained data, we have performed Benchmark dose (BMD)-response modelling. Male Wistar rats were randomized in seven groups (n = 6): one control and six treated with: 0.1, 0.5, 1, 3, 7, and 15 mg Pb/kg body weight, daily for 28 days by oral gavage. The rats were sacrificed and the blood and testes were used for further analysis of testosterone levels in serum, testicular essential metal levels and histological analysis. The Pb treatment led to a dose-dependent decrease of serum testosterone levels with a negative trend (BMDI 0.17-6.13 mg Pb/kg). Increase of Zn (dose-dependent, BMDI 0.004-19.7 mg Pb/kg) and Cu and a decrease of Mn testicular levels were also detected with unscathed histology of the testes. The presented results might be used in further evaluation of the point of departure in human health risk assessment for Pb.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dragana Vukelić
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11221 Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Aleksandra Buha Djordjevic
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11221 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milena Anđelković
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11221 Belgrade, Serbia; Health Center Kosovska Mitrovica, 38220 Kosovska Mitrovica, Serbia
| | - Aleksandra Repić
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Katarina Baralić
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11221 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marijana Ćurčić
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11221 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Danijela Đukić-Ćosić
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11221 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Novica Boričić
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Biljana Antonijević
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11221 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Zorica Bulat
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11221 Belgrade, Serbia
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12
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Dissanayake PD, Yeom KM, Sarkar B, Alessi DS, Hou D, Rinklebe J, Noh JH, Ok YS. Environmental impact of metal halide perovskite solar cells and potential mitigation strategies: A critical review. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 219:115066. [PMID: 36528044 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.115066] [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: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Metal halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have gained extensive attention in the field of solar photovoltaic technology over the past few years. Despite being a remarkable alternative to fossil fuels, solar cells may have detrimental effects on the environment and human health owing to the use of toxic materials during manufacturing. Although modern metal-halide-based PSCs are stable and have encapsulation to prevent the release of potentially toxic materials into the environment, their destruction due to strong winds, hail, snow, landslides, fires, or waste disposal can result in the exposure of these materials to the environment. This may lead to the contamination of soil and groundwater, and uptake of potentially toxic elements by plants, subsequently affecting humans and other living organisms via food chain contamination. Despite worldwide concern, the environmental and ecotoxicological impacts of metal-halide-based PSCs have not been comprehensively surveyed. This review summarizes and critically evaluates the current status of metal-halide-based PSC production and its impact on environmental sustainability, food security, and human health. Furthermore, safe handling and disposal methods for the waste generated from metal-halide-based PSCs are proposed, with a focus on recycling and reuse. Although some studies have suggested that the amount of lead released from metal halide PSCs is far below the maximum permissible levels in most soils, a clear conclusion cannot be reached until real contamination scenarios are assessed under field conditions. Precautions must be taken to minimize environmental contamination throughout the lifecycle of PSCs until nontoxic and similarly performing alternative solar photovoltaic products are developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavani Dulanja Dissanayake
- Korea Biochar Research Center, APRU Sustainable Waste Management Program & Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, South Korea; Soils and Plant Nutrition Division, Coconut Research Institute, Lunuwila 61150, Sri Lanka
| | - Kyung Mun Yeom
- School of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, South Korea
| | - Binoy Sarkar
- Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, SA-5095, Australia
| | - Daniel S Alessi
- Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Alberta, 1-26 Earth Sciences Building, Edmonton, T6G 2E3, Canada
| | - Deyi Hou
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Haidian District, Beijing, China
| | - Jörg Rinklebe
- Laboratory of Soil- and Groundwater-Management, Institute of Foundation Engineering, Water- and Waste-Management, School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, University of Wuppertal, Pauluskirchstraße 7, 42285, Wuppertal, Germany.
| | - Jun Hong Noh
- School of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, South Korea.
| | - Yong Sik Ok
- Korea Biochar Research Center, APRU Sustainable Waste Management Program & Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, South Korea.
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13
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Javorac D, Baralić K, Marić Đ, Mandić-Rajčević S, Đukić-Ćosić D, Bulat Z, Djordjevic AB. Exploring the endocrine disrupting potential of lead through benchmark modelling - Study in humans. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 316:120428. [PMID: 36244500 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to low levels of a toxic metal lead (Pb) affects human health, and its effect as an endocrine disruptor has been reported. However, the precise role of Pb in endocrine health is still unclear because no dose-response relationship has been established for such an effect. The present study aimed to examine blood Pb levels (BLLs) in relation to serum levels of free triiodothyronine (fT3), free thyroxine (fT4), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), and insulin in 435 nonoccupationally exposed Serbian subjects (218 women, 217 men, 18-94 years of age, mean age 48). In addition, benchmark dose (BMD) values were calculated for these endocrine endpoints using the PROAST 70.1 software. An explicit dose-response dependency between BLL and TSH, fT3, fT4, testosterone, and insulin serum levels was evident from BMD modelling. The results support the positive association between BLLs and serum insulin levels, with observed dose-response and calculated BMD values of 1.49 and 0.74 μg Pb/dL in males and females, respectively. Collectively, our findings reported potential endocrine-disrupting effects of Pb at the environmental exposure levels experienced by current Serbian population. They also strengthen the notion that the blood Pb threshold level for an endocrine effect is low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dragana Javorac
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11221, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Katarina Baralić
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11221, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Đurđica Marić
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11221, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Stefan Mandić-Rajčević
- Institute of Social Medicine and School of Public Health and Health Management, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 15, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Danijela Đukić-Ćosić
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11221, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Zorica Bulat
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11221, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aleksandra Buha Djordjevic
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", University of Belgrade - Faculty of Pharmacy, 11221, Belgrade, Serbia.
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14
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Zhong Z, Yang Q, Li C, Chen X, Zhou F. A global perspective of correlation between maternal blood lead levels and risks of preeclampsia: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1072052. [PMID: 36620238 PMCID: PMC9816335 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1072052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Preeclampsia (PE) is a specific hypertensive disorder in pregnancy. Lead (Pb) is a heavy metal that affects women's reproductive health. However, it is unclear whether lead exposure during can predispose maternal risk of developing preeclampsia. This systematic review and meta-analysis study aimed to explore the association. Methods We searched studies from three databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase). Only case-control, cross-sectional, and cohort studies reporting maternal blood lead levels (BLL) and PE were included from database inception to 31st July 2022. Pregnant women with blood lead levels measured were eligible. Those healthy pregnant women who did not develop preeclampsia were assessed as comparators. Letters, comments, case reports, and reviews were excluded. Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) and its adaptive form were applied for assessment. The random-effects method (REM) was applied to calculate the standardized mean difference (SMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Stata 16.0 and RevMan 5.3 were the software used for data extraction and analysis. Results 25 studies out of 1,808 articles made the finalist for systematic reviews, of which 21 underwent further quantity analysis. A total of 1,533 preeclamptic women and 10,998 healthy pregnant controls were included in the meta-analysis. The overall result revealed that maternal lead exposure was significantly higher in women with preeclampsia (SMD: 1.06, 95% CI 0.69, 1.43); (I 2 = 96.40%; P = 0.000). Conclusion This study demonstrates that maternal lead exposure is associated with preeclampsia during pregnancy. The association is present even in low blood lead levels. The conclusion should be taken seriously and women should avoid unexpected exposure to a lead-containing environment as much as possible. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=347220, identifier: CRD42022347220.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixing Zhong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China
| | - Qingmei Yang
- Graduate School, Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, Anhui, China,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chu Li
- The Second Clinical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaohong Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Central Hospital of Haining, Haining, Zhejiang, China,*Correspondence: Xiaohong Chen ✉
| | - Feifei Zhou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, China,Feifei Zhou ✉
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15
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Lederer V, Messing K, Sultan-Taïeb H. How Can Quantitative Analysis Be Used to Improve Occupational Health without Reinforcing Social Inequalities? An Examination of Statistical Methods. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:19. [PMID: 36612341 PMCID: PMC9819275 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Taking account of sex and gender in occupational health studies poses statistical challenges. Other sociodemographic variables, such as racialization, class, and age, also affect the relations between workplace exposures and health and interact with sex and gender. Our objective was to perform a critical review of conventional and emerging statistical tools, examining whether each analysis takes account of sociodemographic variables (1) in a way that contributes to identification of critical occupational determinants of health (2) while taking account of relevant population characteristics to reflect intersectional approaches to health and (3) using sample sizes and population characteristics available to researchers. A two-step search was conducted: (1) a scientific watch concerning the statistical tools most commonly used in occupational health over the past 20 years; (2) a screening of the 1980-2022 literature with a focus on emerging tools. Our examination shows that regressions with adjustment for confounders and stratification fail to reveal the sociodemographic mechanisms that interact with occupational health problems, endangering the identification of occupational risks. Multilevel (notably MAIHDA) analyses, decision tree, cluster, and latent analyses are useful methods to consider when seeking to orientate prevention. Researchers should consider methods that adequately reveal the mechanisms connecting sociodemographic variables and occupational health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Lederer
- Department of Industrial Relations, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Gatineau, QC J8X 3X7, Canada
| | - Karen Messing
- Department of Biological Sciences, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada
| | - Hélène Sultan-Taïeb
- Department of Organization and Human Resources, School of Management (ESG-UQAM), Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada
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16
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Olana AT, Kumie A, Abegaz T. "Blood lead level among battery factory workers in low and middle-income countries: Systematic review and meta-analysis". Front Public Health 2022; 10:970660. [PMID: 36276405 PMCID: PMC9580401 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.970660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Lead is one of the most health-hazardous causes of acute and chronic poisoning at workplaces. A limited study was conducted on the blood lead concentration among battery factory workers in low and middle-income countries. Therefore, this study will improve workplace health and safety conditions of workers in this sector and serve as baseline data for further studies in this segment of the working setup. Objective This review aims to identify the pooled mean blood lead level among battery factory workers in low and middle-income countries. Methods The search methods considered the following electronic bibliographic databases: google scholar, PubMed, and other gray literature. A funnel plot and Begg test were used to see the publication bias. The heterogeneity of studies was checked using I-square statistics with a cut of point 75% and the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) quality assessment tool was applied to ensure the quality of the included articles. A random-effect model was applied to pool the blood lead level intoxication. The sub-group analysis and Meta-regression analysis were conducted by country and year of publication to control heterogeneity and to show variation. We included the articles published from 2000 to 2021 year in the English language. Results Through the search strategies, 135 articles were identified and 43 full-text articles were selected for evaluation, and finally, eighteen (18) articles fit the inclusion criteria. From the 18 studies included in the meta-analysis, the mean pooled blood lead level of workers was 37.996 μg/dl (95% CI: 30.680-45.312) which is higher than the threshold limit value set by American conference of governmental industrial hygienists (20 μg/dl). In subgroup analysis by year in the random effect model, the pooled mean of blood lead level from 2006 to 2011= 43.20 μg/dL (35.91-50.50), 2012-2015 = 37.78 μg/dl (25.23-50.29), and 2016-2020 = 36.53 μg/dl (19.44-53.62). Conclusions This review showed that the pooled mean blood lead level of workers exposed to lead battery factories was (37.996 μg/dl) which is above the threshold limit value (20 μg/dl). Therefore, attention should be given by employers, government, and researchers to improve the health of working populations exposed to lead exposure in low and middle-income countries through the provision of occupational health and safety services like periodical medical checkups, treatments, and provision of training and adequate and appropriate personal protective equipment.Systematic review registration: Identifier: CRD42022322827.
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Nagaraju R, Kalahasthi R, Balachandar R, Bagepally BS. Association between lead exposure and DNA damage (genotoxicity): systematic review and meta-analysis. Arch Toxicol 2022; 96:2899-2911. [PMID: 35930012 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-022-03352-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Studies suggest that chronic lead (Pb) exposure may induce deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage. However, there is no synthesised evidence in this regard. We systematically reviewed existing literature and synthesised evidence on the association between chronic Pb exposure and markers of genotoxicity. Observational studies reporting biomarkers of DNA damage among occupationally Pb-exposed and unexposed controls were systematically searched from PubMed, Scopus and Embase databases from inception to January 2022. The markers included were micronucleus frequency (MN), chromosomal aberrations, comet assay, and 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine. During the execution of this review, we followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Mean differences in the biological markers of DNA damage between Pb-exposed and control groups were pooled using the random-effects model. The heterogeneity was assessed using the Cochran-Q test and I2 statistic. The review included forty-five studies comparing markers of DNA damage between Pb-exposed and unexposed. The primary studies utilised buccal and/or peripheral leukocytes for evaluating the DNA damage. The pooled quantitative results revealed significantly higher DNA damage characterised by increased levels of MN and SCE frequency, chromosomal aberrations, and oxidative DNA damage (comet assay and 8-OHdG) among Pb-exposed than the unexposed. However, studies included in the review exhibited high levels of heterogeneity among the studies. Chronic Pb exposure is associated with DNA damage. However, high-quality, multicentred studies are required to strengthen present observations and further understand the Pb's role in inducing DNA damage. CRD42022286810.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raju Nagaraju
- Biochemistry, Regional Occupational Health Centre (Southern), ICMR-National Institute of Occupational Health, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Ravibabu Kalahasthi
- Biochemistry, Regional Occupational Health Centre (Southern), ICMR-National Institute of Occupational Health, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Rakesh Balachandar
- Division of Health Sciences, ICMR-National Institute of Occupational Health, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
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18
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Zheng P, Chen Z, Shi J, Xue Y, Bai Y, Kang Y, Xu H, Jia G, Wang T. Association between ambient air pollution and blood sex hormones levels in men. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 211:113117. [PMID: 35304116 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Concerns are growing over time on the adverse health effects of air pollution. However, the association between ambient air pollution and blood sex hormones in men is poorly understood. We included 72,917 men aged 20-55 years from February 2014 to December 2019 in Beijing, China in this study. Blood testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, estradiol, and prolactin levels of each participant were measured. We collected exposure data of daily ambient levels of particulate matter ≤10 μm (PM10) and ≤2.5 μm (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide, and ozone. Generalized linear mixed models were used to analyze the potential association between ambient air pollution exposure and blood sex hormone levels. The results showed that both immediate and short-term cumulative PM2.5, PM10, and SO2 exposure was related to altered serum sex hormone levels in men, especially testosterone. An increase of 10 μg/m3 in PM2.5 and PM10 in the current day was related to a 1.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.9%-2.3%) and 1.1% (95% CI: 0.5%-1.6%) decrease in testosterone, respectively, and a decreasing tendency of accumulated effects persisted within lag 0-30 days. The present study demonstrated that it is important to control ambient air pollution exposure to reduce effects on the reproductive health of men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pai Zheng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Zhangjian Chen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jiaqi Shi
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yuting Xue
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yi Bai
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yulin Kang
- Institute of Environmental Information, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Huiyu Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Guang Jia
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Tiancheng Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China.
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Effect of 3 vs. 3 Soccer Small-Sided Game on Various Performance, Inflammatory, Muscle Damage and Hormonal Indicators in Semi-Professional Players. Sports (Basel) 2022; 10:sports10070102. [PMID: 35878113 PMCID: PMC9324684 DOI: 10.3390/sports10070102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of a soccer small-sided game (SSG) on performance, inflammatory, muscle damage and hormonal indicators. Twenty-two male soccer players participated and were assigned to either experimental (EXP = 12) or control (CON = 10) groups. Subjective fatigue (RPE) and lactate (La¯) were measured during the SSG; vertical squat jump (SJ), 20-m sprint, creatine kinase (CK), interleukin-6 (IL-6), cortisol (C), and testosterone (T) were measured before (PRE), after (POST), 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h after the SSG in the EXP group. The heart rate during the SSG reached 92 ± 3% of their HRmax, whereas La¯ and RPE reached 13.02 ± 1.60 mmol·L−1 and 15 ± 1 after SSG, respectively. The IL-6, different among measurements (F (1.04, 11.50) = 504.82, p < 0.001), peaked (3.52 ± 0.43 pg·mL−1 [95%CI; 3.28−3.77]) after the SSG and returned to baseline 24 h later. The CK, different among measurements (F (1.76, 19.32) = 93.96, p < 0.001), peaked (536.58 ± 124.73U·L−1 [95%CI; 466.01−607.15]) 24 h after the SSG and remained significantly higher than PRE condition in POST and up to 72 h later. The T/C ratio, significantly different among measurements (F (1.73, 19.05) = 12.12, p < 0.001), was at its lowest (0.44 ± 0.16 [95%CI; 0.35−0.54]) immediately after the SSG (p < 0.05) and returned to baseline after 24 h. It seems that 48 h (at the most) after an SSG is adequate time for players to recover, and a high training load should be avoided sooner than 24 h after an SSG.
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Tatsuta N, Nakai K, Nakayama SF, Takeuchi A, Arima T, Yaegashi N, Kamijima M, Yamazaki S, Ohya Y, Kishi R, Hashimoto K, Mori C, Ito S, Yamagata Z, Inadera H, Nakayama T, Iso H, Shima M, Kurozawa Y, Suganuma N, Kusuhara K, Katoh T. Effects of maternal exposure to lead on secondary sex ratio in Japan: The Japan Environment and Children's Study. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 817:152726. [PMID: 34995582 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.152726] [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: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
A decline in the proportion of male births (secondary sex ratio, SSR) has been seen in several countries including Japan in recent years. Although previous studies have reported that the SSR is affected by exposure to chemical substances such as dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls, as well as heavy metals such as methylmercury, the effects of lead exposure on the SSR have been little studied. The aim of this study was to determine the association between maternal lead exposure and SSR. In a large-scale nationwide birth cohort study, maternal blood lead level (BLL) was determined using whole blood from the second or third trimester of pregnancy. The association between SSR and maternal BLL was estimated using multivariable logistic models. Binomial distribution was applied to examine the differences in SSR by dividing the participants into five groups based on BLL. The primary outcome was SSR, and the child sex was obtained from the medical record transcripts. Of 104,062 fetal records, 85,171 were examined for analysis. The median maternal BLL was 5.85 ng/g (5th-95th percentile 3.45-10.6 ng/g). The overall proportion of males among participating infants was 0.512. In logistic regression models adjusted for covariates, the analysis revealed an increased odds ratio for SSR with higher blood lead concentrations [Group 2: adjusted OR 1.082, 95% confidence interval 1.037 to 1.129, Group 3: 1.122, 1.074 to 1.171, Group 4: 1.214, 1.163 to 1.268, Group 5: 1.279, 1.224 to 1.336]. Compared to the general birth probability in Japan, the group with low BLL had a lower SSR and the group with high BLL had a higher SSR. Higher maternal lead exposures during pregnancy were associated with increased SSR. Further investigations including assessment of paternal lead exposure are necessary to understand the association between lead exposure and SSR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nozomi Tatsuta
- Development and Environmental Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
| | - Kunihiko Nakai
- Development and Environmental Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai 980-8575, Japan.
| | - Shoji F Nakayama
- Health and Environmental Risk Division, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | - Ayano Takeuchi
- Health and Environmental Risk Division, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | - Takahiro Arima
- Development and Environmental Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
| | - Nobuo Yaegashi
- Development and Environmental Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
| | - Michihiro Kamijima
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya 467-8601, Japan.
| | - Shin Yamazaki
- National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Ohya
- National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Koichi Kusuhara
- University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
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21
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Zhao Y, Mao A, Zhang R, Guan S, Lu J. SIRT1/mTOR pathway-mediated autophagy dysregulation promotes Pb-induced hepatic lipid accumulation in HepG2 cells. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2022; 37:549-563. [PMID: 34842334 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) is a common and toxic metal pollutant in the ecological environment and has drawn significant attention due to its presence in various channels, including the use of lead-based paint, mineral extraction and smelting, exhaust gas from gasoline combustion. Autophagy is an essential catabolic pathway and blocked autophagy may result in abnormal lipid metabolism in liver. A body of evidence demonstrates that Pb exposure causes abnormal lipid droplet (LDs) accumulation in the liver, but the mechanism remains unknown. Here, we investigated whether Pb induced lipid accumulation by regulating autophagy in HepG2 cells. In this study, we found that Pb (50 μM) blocked the autophagy flux mainly by transcription factor EB (TFEB)-mediated impairment of lysosome formation and activity. Then we demonstrated that the dense lipid accumulation was observed upon Pb exposure, and induction of autophagy by the autophagy activator rapamycin (Rap) alleviated Pb-induced lipid accumulation, while suppression of autophagy by chloroquine (CQ) exacerbated Pb-induced lipid accumulation, suggested that Pb-induced autophagy blockage might be responsible for lipid accumulation. Moreover, we demonstrated that the SIRT1/mTOR pathway participated in Pb-induced autophagy dysregulation, leading to Pb-induced hepatic lipid accumulation. In summary, these results revealed a new insight into the relationship between Pb-caused autophagy dysregulation and lipid accumulation for the first time and highlight autophagy as a novel therapeutic target against Pb-induced hepatic lipid accumulation which supplying the theoretical basis and potential strategies for the intervention and treatment of Pb-related disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Zhao
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Ankang Mao
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Ranran Zhang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Shuang Guan
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Ministry of Education College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jing Lu
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Ministry of Education College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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22
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Upadhyay K, Viramgami A, Bagepally BS, Balachandar R. Association between blood lead levels and markers of calcium homeostasis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2022; 12:1850. [PMID: 35115666 PMCID: PMC8814138 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-05976-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic Pb exposure associated systemic illness are partly posited to involve calcium homeostasis. Present systematic review aims to comprehensively evaluate the association between chronic lead exposure and markers of calcium homeostasis. Observational studies documenting the changes in calcium homeostasis markers (i.e. serum calcium, parathyroid hormone, vitamin D & calcitonin) between occupationally Pb exposed group and control group were systematically searched from pubmed-Medline, Scopus, and Embase digital databases since inception to September 24, 2021. The protocol was earlier registered at PROSPERO (ID: CRD42020199503) and executed adhering to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Mean differences of calcium homeostasis markers between the groups were analysed using random-effects model. Conventional I2 statistics was employed to assess heterogeneity, while the risk for various biases were assessed using Newcastle Ottawa Scale. Sub-group, sensitivity and meta-regression analyses were performed where data permitted. Eleven studies including 837 Pb exposed and 739 controls were part of the present study. Pb exposed group exhibited higher mean blood lead level [i.e. 36.13 (with 95% CI 25.88-46.38) µg/dl] significantly lower serum calcium (i.e. - 0.72 mg/dl with 95% CI - 0.36 to - 1.07) and trend of higher parathyroid levels and lower vitamin D levels than controls. Heterogeneity was high (I2 > 90%) among the studies. Considering the cardinal role of calcium in multiple biological functions, present observations emphasis the need for periodic evaluation of calcium levels and its markers among those with known cumulative Pb exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuldip Upadhyay
- ICMR - National Institute of Occupational Health, Ahmedabad, India
| | - Ankit Viramgami
- ICMR - National Institute of Occupational Health, Ahmedabad, India
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Kalahasthi R, Nagaraju R, Balachandar R, Bagepally BS. Association between occupational lead exposure and immunotoxicity markers: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Toxicology 2022; 465:153047. [PMID: 34838595 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2021.153047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Recent evidences suggest the role of chronic lead (Pb) exposure in altering immunological parameters. Present study aimed to systematically review existing literature and synthesize quantitative evidence on the association between chronic Pb exposure and changes in immunological markers. Observational studies reporting immunological markers such as leukocyte derivative counts (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, CD45+, CD56+, lymphocyte, and total leukocyte), cytokine, Immunoglobulin (Igs), C-reactive protein (CRP) among Pb-exposed and unexposed controls were systematically searched from PubMed, Scopus and Embase digital databases from inception to January 2021. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were adhered during systematic review. Mean differences in the immunological markers between Pb-exposed and control groups were pooled using random-effects model. The heterogeneity was assessed using Cochran-Q test and I2 statistic. The review included forty studies reporting immunological markers in Pb-exposed and unexposed control groups. The occupational Pb-exposed group exhibited significantly higher BLL, impaired immunological markers, characterized by a marginal lowering in lymphocyte count, lymphocyte subsets (CD3+, CD4+, CD4+/CD8+ ratio), IFN-γ and IgG levels, while CD8+, IgM, IgA, IgE, and cytokines (IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α) exhibited a trend of higher values in comparison to the control group. Further, inflammatory marker viz., total leukocyte count was significantly higher among Pb-exposed. The included studies exhibited high levels of heterogeneity. In conclusion, Occupational Pb exposure alters the immunological markers such as the circulating cytokines and leukocyte counts. However, high-quality, multicentered studies are required to strengthen present observations and further understand the Pb's role on the immune system. Prospero Registration ID: CRD42021228252.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravibabu Kalahasthi
- Biochemistry, Regional Occupational Health Centre (Southern), ICMR-National Institute of Occupational Health, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Raju Nagaraju
- Biochemistry, Regional Occupational Health Centre (Southern), ICMR-National Institute of Occupational Health, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Rakesh Balachandar
- Clinical Epidemiology, ICMR-National Institute of Occupational Health, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
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Madej D, Granda D, Sicinska E, Kaluza J. Influence of Fruit and Vegetable Consumption on Antioxidant Status and Semen Quality: A Cross-Sectional Study in Adult Men. Front Nutr 2021; 8:753843. [PMID: 34722613 PMCID: PMC8554053 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2021.753843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The influence of fruit and vegetable consumption on semen quality by reducing oxidative stress is inconsistent. Thus, the association between the consumption of these products, antioxidant status, and semen quality was investigated in 90 men aged 18–40. The consumption of fruit and vegetables was collected using the 3-day food record method. Antioxidant status: total antioxidant capacity in semen (TAC-s) and blood (TAC-b), blood superoxide dismutase (SOD-b), glutathione reductase (GR-b), glutathione peroxidase (GPx-b), catalase (CAT-b) activity, and malondialdehyde concentration in blood (MDA-b) were measured. Sperm concentration, leukocytes in the ejaculate, vitality, motility, and sperm morphology were examined using computer-aided semen analysis (CASA). The consumption of fruit and vegetables was positively correlated with sperm concentration, vitality, motility, TAC-s, TAC-b, and SOD-b activity. The TAC-s and TAC-b were positively related to motility, TAC-s was inversely correlated with sperm tail defects. The SOD-b activity was positively correlated with vitality, motility, sperm morphology, and inversely with sperm tail defects and leukocytes in the ejaculate. Compared to the men in the first quartile of fruit and vegetable consumption (<318 g/day), those in the highest quartile (>734 g/day) had the highest sperm concentration, vitality, motility, TAC-s, TAC-b, GPx-b activity, and the lowest MDA-b concentration (based on multivariate regression models). A high consumption of fruit and vegetables may positively influence selected sperm quality parameters by improving the antioxidant status of semen and blood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawid Madej
- Department of Human Nutrition, Institute of Human Nutrition Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dominika Granda
- Department of Human Nutrition, Institute of Human Nutrition Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ewa Sicinska
- Department of Human Nutrition, Institute of Human Nutrition Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Kaluza
- Department of Human Nutrition, Institute of Human Nutrition Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Warsaw, Poland
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Kalahasthi R, Bagepally BS, Barman T. Association between Musculoskeletal Pain and Bone Turnover Markers in Long-Term Pb-Exposed Workers. J Res Health Sci 2021; 21:e00522. [PMID: 34698656 PMCID: PMC8957687 DOI: 10.34172/jrhs.2021.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND On chronic exposure, Lead (Pb) deposits in the skeletal system, replaces calcium ions, and alters the normal physiological processes, which in turn, lead to stunting, delayed fracture healing, and high resorption of collagen molecules. The present study aimed to assess the association of musculoskeletal pain and discomfort with bone turnover markers (BTMs) among long-term Pb-exposed workers. STUDY DESIGN A cross-sectional study. METHODS The study recruited 176 male Pb-exposed workers and 80 control subjects who were matched for age, gender, and socio-economic status. Blood lead levels (BLLs), bone growth markers, such as serum osteocalcin (OC), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bone alkaline phosphatase (BAP), and bone resorption markers: serum pyridinoline (Pry), deoxypyridinoline (DPry), tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase-5b(TRACP-5b), and hydroxyproline in urine (HyP-U) of participants were investigated. Pain and discomfort in the musculoskeletal system were assessed using Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. RESULTS Pb-exposure was significantly associated with musculoskeletal discomfort of the lower back (P<0.001), upper back (P<0.001), and ankle/foot (P=0.011). Among bone formation markers, serum OC was significantly lower in musculoskeletal discomfort of elbows (P=0.033) and ankle/foot (P=0.042). Among bone resorption markers, serum DPry was significantly lower in musculoskeletal discomfort of the neck (P=0.049) and shoulders (P=0.023). HyP-U was significantly higher in musculoskeletal discomfort of shoulders (P=0.035) and lower back (P=0.036). CONCLUSION As evidenced by the obtained results, Pb-exposure was associated with musculoskeletal discomfort of the lower back, upper back, and ankle/foot. Lower bone formation (serum OC) marker was noted with musculoskeletal discomfort of elbows and ankle/foot. Furthermore, bone resorption markers were associated with musculoskeletal discomfort of the neck, shoulders, and lower back. The findings of the present study suggested that long-term Pb-exposure and BTMs were associated with musculoskeletal discomfort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravibabu Kalahasthi
- Department of Biochemistry, Regional Occupational Health Centre (Southern), Indian Council of Medical Research, ICMR Complex, Karnataka, India.
| | | | - Tapu Barman
- Department of Bacteriology, National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, Beleghata, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
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