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Kim SY, Kim M, Park K, Hong S. A systematic review on analytical methods of the neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA), and its causative microalgae and distribution in the environment. CHEMOSPHERE 2024:143487. [PMID: 39395475 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.143487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 09/20/2024] [Accepted: 10/04/2024] [Indexed: 10/14/2024]
Abstract
β-N-Methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA), a neurotoxin produced by various microalgal groups, is associated with neurodegenerative diseases and is considered a major environmental factor potentially linked to sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. This study systematically reviews the analytical methods used to study BMAA in publications from 2019 to the present. It also investigates the causative microalgae of BMAA and its geographical distributions in aquatic ecosystems based on studies conducted since 2003. A comprehensive search using the Web of Science database revealed that hydrolysis for extraction (67%), followed by quantification using LC-MS/MS (LC: 84%; MS/MS: 88%), is the most commonly employed method in BMAA analysis. Among analytical methods, RPLC-MS/MS had the highest percentage (88%) of BMAA-positive results and included a high number of quality control (QC) assessments. Various genera of cyanobacteria and diatoms have been reported to produce BMAA. The widespread geographical distribution of BMAA across diverse ecosystems highlights significant environmental and public health concerns. Notably, BMAA accumulation and biomagnification are likely more potent in marine or brackish water ecosystems than in freshwater ecosystems, potentially amplifying its ecological impacts. Future research should prioritize advanced, sensitive methods, particularly LC-MS/MS with as many QC assessments as possible, and should expand investigations to identify novel microalgal producers and previously uncharted geographical areas, with a special focus on marine or brackish water ecosystems. This effort will enhance our understanding of the environmental distribution and impacts of BMAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sea-Yong Kim
- Department of Marine Environmental Sciences & Institute of Marine Environmental Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Mungi Kim
- Department of Earth, Environmental & Space Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Kiho Park
- Department of Earth, Environmental & Space Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Seongjin Hong
- Department of Marine Environmental Sciences & Institute of Marine Environmental Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea; Department of Earth, Environmental & Space Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea.
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Kim SY, Kim M, Lim YK, Baek SH, Kim JY, An KG, Hong S. First investigation of the temporal distribution of neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and the candidate causative microalgae along the South Sea Coast of Korea. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 478:135486. [PMID: 39151364 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135486] [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: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
The neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA), produced by cyanobacteria and diatoms, has been implicated as an environmental risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases. This study first investigated the occurrence and monthly distributions of BMAA and its isomers, 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB) and N-2-aminoethylglycine (AEG), in phytoplankton and mussels from 11 sites along the South Sea Coast of Korea throughout 2021. These toxins were quantified using LC-MS/MS, revealing elevated BMAA concentrations from late autumn to spring, with phase lags observed between phytoplankton and mussels. The highest concentration of BMAA in phytoplankton was detected in November (mean: 1490 ng g-1 dry weight (dw)), while in mussels, it peaked in December (mean: 1240 ng g-1 dw). DAB was detected in phytoplankton but was absent in mussels, indicating limited bioaccumulation potential. In February, the peak mean DAB concentration in phytoplankton was 89 ng g-1 dw. AEG was not detected in any samples. Chlorophyll-a concentrations consistently showed an inverse correlation with BMAA concentrations in mussels throughout the year. Through correlation analysis, four diatom genera, Bacillaria, Hemiaulus, Odontella, and Pleurosigma, were identified as potential causative microalgae of BMAA. This study offers insights into identifying the causative microalgae for BMAA and informs future regulatory efforts regarding unmanaged biotoxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sea-Yong Kim
- Department of Marine Environmental Sciences & Institute of Marine Environmental Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Mungi Kim
- Department of Earth, Environmental & Space Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Kyun Lim
- Ecological Risk Research Department, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje 53201, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Ho Baek
- Ecological Risk Research Department, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje 53201, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Yoon Kim
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang-Guk An
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Seongjin Hong
- Department of Marine Environmental Sciences & Institute of Marine Environmental Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea; Department of Earth, Environmental & Space Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea.
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Bishop SL, Solonenka JT, Giebelhaus RT, Bakker DTR, Li ITS, Murch SJ. Microbial Diversity Impacts Non-Protein Amino Acid Production in Cyanobacterial Bloom Cultures Collected from Lake Winnipeg. Toxins (Basel) 2024; 16:169. [PMID: 38668594 PMCID: PMC11053616 DOI: 10.3390/toxins16040169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Lake Winnipeg in Manitoba, Canada is heavily impacted by harmful algal blooms that contain non-protein amino acids (NPAAs) produced by cyanobacteria: N-(2-aminoethyl)glycine (AEG), β-aminomethyl-L-alanine (BAMA), β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA), and 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB). Our objective was to investigate the impact of microbial diversity on NPAA production by cyanobacteria using semi-purified crude cyanobacterial cultures established from field samples collected by the Lake Winnipeg Research Consortium between 2016 and 2021. NPAAs were detected and quantified by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) using validated analytical methods, while Shannon and Simpson alpha diversity scores were determined from 16S rRNA metagenomic sequences. Alpha diversity in isolate cultures was significantly decreased compared to crude cyanobacterial cultures (p < 0.001), indicating successful semi-purification. BMAA and AEG concentrations were higher in crude compared to isolate cultures (p < 0.0001), and AEG concentrations were correlated to the alpha diversity in cultures (r = 0.554; p < 0.0001). BAMA concentrations were increased in isolate cultures (p < 0.05), while DAB concentrations were similar in crude and isolate cultures. These results demonstrate that microbial community complexity impacts NPAA production by cyanobacteria and related organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L. Bishop
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Syilx Okanagan Nation Territory, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada; (J.T.S.); (R.T.G.); (D.T.R.B.); (I.T.S.L.); (S.J.M.)
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Julia T. Solonenka
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Syilx Okanagan Nation Territory, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada; (J.T.S.); (R.T.G.); (D.T.R.B.); (I.T.S.L.); (S.J.M.)
| | - Ryland T. Giebelhaus
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Syilx Okanagan Nation Territory, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada; (J.T.S.); (R.T.G.); (D.T.R.B.); (I.T.S.L.); (S.J.M.)
- Department of Chemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2N4, Canada
- The Metabolomics Innovation Centre, Edmonton, AB T6G 2N4, Canada
| | - David T. R. Bakker
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Syilx Okanagan Nation Territory, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada; (J.T.S.); (R.T.G.); (D.T.R.B.); (I.T.S.L.); (S.J.M.)
| | - Isaac T. S. Li
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Syilx Okanagan Nation Territory, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada; (J.T.S.); (R.T.G.); (D.T.R.B.); (I.T.S.L.); (S.J.M.)
| | - Susan J. Murch
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Syilx Okanagan Nation Territory, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada; (J.T.S.); (R.T.G.); (D.T.R.B.); (I.T.S.L.); (S.J.M.)
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Pravadali-Cekic S, Vojvodic A, Violi JP, Mitrovic SM, Rodgers KJ, Bishop DP. Simultaneous Analysis of Cyanotoxins β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and Microcystins-RR, -LR, and -YR Using Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Molecules 2023; 28:6733. [PMID: 37764509 PMCID: PMC10537148 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28186733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and its isomers, 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (2,4-DAB) and N-(2-aminoethyl)-glycine (AEG), along with microcystins (MCs)-RR, -LR, and -YR (the major MC congeners), are cyanotoxins that can cause detrimental health and environmental impacts during toxic blooms. Currently, there are no reverse-phase (RP) LC-MS/MS methods for the simultaneous detection and quantification of BMAA, its isomers, and the major MCs in a single analysis; therefore, multiple analyses are required to assess the toxic load of a sample. Here, we present a newly developed and validated method for the detection and quantification of BMAA, 2,4-DAB, AEG, MC-LR, MC-RR, and MC-YR using RP LC-MS/MS. Method validation was performed, assessing linearity (r2 > 0.996), accuracy (>90% recovery for spiked samples), precision (7% relative standard deviation), and limits of detection (LODs) and quantification (LOQs) (ranging from 0.13 to 1.38 ng mL-1). The application of this combined cyanotoxin analysis on a culture of Microcystis aeruginosa resulted in the simultaneous detection of 2,4-DAB (0.249 ng mg-1 dry weight (DW)) and MC-YR (4828 ng mg-1 DW). This study provides a unified method for the quantitative analysis of BMAA, its isomers, and three MC congeners in natural environmental samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sercan Pravadali-Cekic
- Hyphenated Mass Spectrometry Laboratory (HyMaS), University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia; (S.P.-C.)
| | - Aleksandar Vojvodic
- Hyphenated Mass Spectrometry Laboratory (HyMaS), University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia; (S.P.-C.)
| | - Jake P. Violi
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2033, Australia;
| | - Simon M. Mitrovic
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia; (S.M.M.); (K.J.R.)
| | - Kenneth J. Rodgers
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia; (S.M.M.); (K.J.R.)
| | - David P. Bishop
- Hyphenated Mass Spectrometry Laboratory (HyMaS), University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia; (S.P.-C.)
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Costa HN, Esteves AR, Empadinhas N, Cardoso SM. Parkinson's Disease: A Multisystem Disorder. Neurosci Bull 2023; 39:113-124. [PMID: 35994167 PMCID: PMC9849652 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-022-00934-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The way sporadic Parkinson's disease (PD) is perceived has undergone drastic changes in recent decades. For a long time, PD was considered a brain disease characterized by motor disturbances; however, the identification of several risk factors and the hypothesis that PD has a gastrointestinal onset have shed additional light. Today, after recognition of prodromal non-motor symptoms and the pathological processes driving their evolution, there is a greater understanding of the involvement of other organ systems. For this reason, PD is increasingly seen as a multiorgan and multisystemic pathology that arises from the interaction of susceptible genetic factors with a challenging environment during aging-related decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Nunes Costa
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology and CIBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Raquel Esteves
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology and CIBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nuno Empadinhas
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology and CIBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sandra Morais Cardoso
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology and CIBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal.
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Liang Y, Li A, Chen J, Tan Z, Tong M, Liu Z, Qiu J, Yu R. Progress on the investigation and monitoring of marine phycotoxins in China. HARMFUL ALGAE 2022; 111:102152. [PMID: 35016765 DOI: 10.1016/j.hal.2021.102152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Marine phycotoxins associated with paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP), diarrhetic shellfish poisoning (DSP), amnesic shellfish poisoning (ASP), neurotoxic shellfish poisoning (NSP), ciguatera fish poisoning (CFP), tetrodotoxin (TTX), palytoxin (PLTX) and neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) have been investigated and routinely monitored along the coast of China. The mouse bioassay for monitoring of marine toxins has been progressively replaced by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), which led to the discovery of many new hydrophilic and lipophilic marine toxins. PSP toxins have been detected in the whole of coastal waters of China, where they are the most serious marine toxins. PSP events in the Northern Yellow Sea, the Bohai Sea and the East China Sea are a cause of severe public health concern. Okadaic acid (OA) and dinophysistoxin-1 (DTX1), which are major toxin components associated with DSP, were mainly found in coastal waters of Zhejiang and Fujian provinces, and other lipophilic toxins, such as pectenotoxins, yessotoxins, azaspiracids, cyclic imines, and dinophysistoxin-2(DTX2) were detected in bivalves, seawater, sediment, as well as phytoplankton. CFP events mainly occurred in the South China Sea, while TTX events mainly occurred in Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Fujian provinces. Microalgae that produce PLTX and BMAA were found in the phytoplankton community along the coastal waters of China.
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Key Words
- AZAs, azaspiracids
- Abbreviations: ASP, amnesic shellfish poisoning
- Animal seafood
- BMAA, β-N-methylamino-L-alanine
- CFP, ciguatera fish poisoning
- CIs, cyclic imines
- CTXs, ciguatoxins
- Coastal waters of China
- DA, domoic acid
- DSP, diarrhetic shellfish poisoning
- DTX1, dinophysistoxin-1
- DTX2, dinophysistoxin-2
- DTXs, dinophysistoxins
- ELISA, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
- FJ, Fujian
- GD, Guangdong
- GX, Guangxi
- GYM, gymnodimine
- HB, Hebei
- HN, Hainan
- HPLC-FLD, high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection
- JS, Jiangsu
- LC-MS/MS, liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry
- LMTs, lipophilic marine toxins
- LN, Liaoning
- LOD, limit of detection
- LOQ, limit of quantitation
- MBA, mouse bioassay
- Marine phycotoxins
- NSP, neurotoxic shellfish poisoning
- OA, okadaic acid
- PLTXs, palytoxins
- PSP, paralytic shellfish poisoning
- PTX2, pectenotoxin-2
- PbTXs, brevetoxins
- SD, Shandong
- SPATT, solid phase adsorbent toxin tracking
- SPE, solid phase extraction
- SPX1, 13-desmethyl spirolide C
- STXs, saxitoxins
- TTXs, tetrodotoxins
- Toxin analysis
- YTXs, yessotoxins
- ZJ, Zhejiang
- hYTX, 1-homoyessotoxin
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Affiliation(s)
- Yubo Liang
- Dalian Phycotoxins Key laboratory, National Marine Environmental Monitoring Center, Ministry of Ecological Environment, Dalian 116023, China.
| | - Aifeng Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Junhui Chen
- Marine Bioresource and Environment Research Center, Key Laboratory of Marine Eco-Environmental Science and Technology, The First Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Qingdao 266061, China
| | - Zhijun Tan
- Key Laboratory of Testing and Evaluation for Aquatic Product Safety and Quality, Ministry of Agriculture, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Mengmeng Tong
- Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan 316000, China
| | - Zhao Liu
- Dalian Phycotoxins Key laboratory, National Marine Environmental Monitoring Center, Ministry of Ecological Environment, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Jiangbing Qiu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Rencheng Yu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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Huo D, Gan N, Geng R, Cao Q, Song L, Yu G, Li R. Cyanobacterial blooms in China: diversity, distribution, and cyanotoxins. HARMFUL ALGAE 2021; 109:102106. [PMID: 34815019 DOI: 10.1016/j.hal.2021.102106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Cyanobacterial blooms, which refer to the massive growth of harmful cyanobacteria, have altered the global freshwater ecosystems during the past decades. China has the largest population in the world, and it is suffering from the harmful effect of water eutrophication and cyanobacterial blooms along with rapid development of the economy and society. Research on cyanobacterial blooms and cyanotoxins in China have been overwhelmingly enhanced and emphasized during the past decades. In the present review, the research on cyanobacterial blooms in China is generally introduced, including the history of cyanobacterial bloom studies, the diversity of the bloom-forming cyanobacteria species (BFCS), and cyanotoxin studies in China. Most studies have focused on Microcystis, its blooms, and microcystins. Newly emerging blooms with the dominance of non-Microcystis BFCS have been gradually expanding to wide regions in China. Understanding the basic features of these non-Microcystis BFCS and their blooms, including their diversity, occurrence, physio-ecology, and harmful metabolites, will provide direction on future studies of cyanobacterial blooms in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Huo
- Key Laboratory of Algal Biology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, PR China
| | - Nanqin Gan
- Key Laboratory of Algal Biology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, PR China
| | - Ruozhen Geng
- Key Laboratory of Algal Biology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 400049, PR China
| | - Qi Cao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Aqua-Ecology and Aquaculture, College of Fisheries, Tianjin Agricultural University, Tianjin 300384, PR China
| | - Lirong Song
- Key Laboratory of Algal Biology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, PR China
| | - Gongliang Yu
- Key Laboratory of Algal Biology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, PR China
| | - Renhui Li
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325000, PR China.
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Ra D, Sa B, Sl B, Js M, Sj M, DA D, Ew S, O K, Eb B, Ad C, Vx T, Gg G, Pa C, Dc M, Wg B. Is Exposure to BMAA a Risk Factor for Neurodegenerative Diseases? A Response to a Critical Review of the BMAA Hypothesis. Neurotox Res 2021; 39:81-106. [PMID: 33547590 PMCID: PMC7904546 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-020-00302-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In a literature survey, Chernoff et al. (2017) dismissed the hypothesis that chronic exposure to β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) may be a risk factor for progressive neurodegenerative disease. They question the growing scientific literature that suggests the following: (1) BMAA exposure causes ALS/PDC among the indigenous Chamorro people of Guam; (2) Guamanian ALS/PDC shares clinical and neuropathological features with Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and ALS; (3) one possible mechanism for protein misfolds is misincorporation of BMAA into proteins as a substitute for L-serine; and (4) chronic exposure to BMAA through diet or environmental exposures to cyanobacterial blooms can cause neurodegenerative disease. We here identify multiple errors in their critique including the following: (1) their review selectively cites the published literature; (2) the authors reported favorably on HILIC methods of BMAA detection while the literature shows significant matrix effects and peak coelution in HILIC that may prevent detection and quantification of BMAA in cyanobacteria; (3) the authors build alternative arguments to the BMAA hypothesis, rather than explain the published literature which, to date, has been unable to refute the BMAA hypothesis; and (4) the authors erroneously attribute methods to incorrect studies, indicative of a failure to carefully consider all relevant publications. The lack of attention to BMAA research begins with the review's title which incorrectly refers to BMAA as a "non-essential" amino acid. Research regarding chronic exposure to BMAA as a cause of human neurodegenerative diseases is emerging and requires additional resources, validation, and research. Here, we propose strategies for improvement in the execution and reporting of analytical methods and the need for additional and well-executed inter-lab comparisons for BMAA quantitation. We emphasize the need for optimization and validation of analytical methods to ensure that they are fit-for-purpose. Although there remain gaps in the literature, an increasingly large body of data from multiple independent labs using orthogonal methods provides increasing evidence that chronic exposure to BMAA may be a risk factor for neurological illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dunlop Ra
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY, USA.
| | - Banack Sa
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY, USA
| | - Bishop Sl
- Lewis Research Group, Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Metcalf Js
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY, USA
| | - Murch Sj
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Davis DA
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Stommel Ew
- Department of Neurology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Karlsson O
- Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Brittebo Eb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Tan Vx
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie University, Ryde, Australia
| | - Guillemin Gg
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie University, Ryde, Australia
| | - Cox Pa
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY, USA
| | - Mash Dc
- Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Bradley Wg
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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β-Ν-Methylamino-L-alanine interferes with nitrogen assimilation in the cyanobacterium, non-BMAA producer, Synechococcus sp. TAU-MAC 0499. Toxicon 2020; 185:147-155. [PMID: 32687889 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The production of β-Ν-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) in cyanobacteria is triggered by nitrogen-starvation conditions and its biological role, albeit unknown, is associated with nitrogen assimilation. In the present study, the effect of BMAA (773 μg L-1) on nitrogen metabolism and physiology of the non-diazotrophic cyanobacterium and non-BMAA producer, Synechococcus sp. TAU-MAC 0499, was investigated. In order to study the combined effect of nitrogen availability and BMAA, nitrogen-starvation conditions were induced by transferring cells in nitrogen-free medium and subsequently exposing the cultures to BMAA. After short-term treatment (180 min) and in the presence of nitrogen, BMAA inhibited glutamine synthetase, which resulted in low concentration of glutamine. In the absence of nitrogen, although there was no effect on glutamine synthetase, a possible perturbation in nitrogen assimilation is reflected on the significant decrease in glutamate levels. During the long-term exposure (24-96 h), growth, photosynthetic pigments and total protein were not affected by BMAA exposure, except for an increase in protein and phycocyanin levels at 48 h in nitrogen replete conditions. Results suggest that BMAA interferes with nitrogen assimilation, in a different way, depending on the presence or absence of combined nitrogen, providing novel data on the potential biological role of BMAA.
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Nunes-Costa D, Magalhães JD, G-Fernandes M, Cardoso SM, Empadinhas N. Microbial BMAA and the Pathway for Parkinson's Disease Neurodegeneration. Front Aging Neurosci 2020; 12:26. [PMID: 32317956 PMCID: PMC7019015 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2020.00026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) is a natural non-proteinogenic diamino acid produced by several species of both prokaryotic (cyanobacteria) and eukaryotic (diatoms and dinoflagellates) microorganisms. BMAA has been shown to biomagnify through the food chain in some ecosystems, accumulating for example in seafood such as shellfish and fish, common dietary sources of BMAA whose ingestion may have possible neuronal consequences. In addition to its excitotoxic potential, BMAA has been implicated in protein misfolding and aggregation, inhibition of specific enzymes and neuroinflammation, all hallmark features of neurodegenerative diseases. However, the exact molecular mechanisms of neurotoxicity remain to be elucidated in detail. Although BMAA is commonly detected in its free form, complex BMAA-containing molecules have also been identified such as the paenilamicins, produced by an insect gut bacterial pathogen. On the other hand, production of BMAA or BMAA-containing molecules by members of the human gut microbiota, for example by non-photosynthetic cyanobacteria, the Melainabacteria, remains only hypothetical. In any case, should BMAA reach the gut it may interact with cells of the mucosal immune system and neurons of the enteric nervous system (ENS) and possibly target the mitochondria. Here, we review the available evidence and hint on possible mechanisms by which chronic exposure to dietary sources of this microbial neurotoxin may drive protein misfolding and mitochondrial dysfunction with concomitant activation of innate immune responses, chronic low-grade gut inflammation, and ultimately the neurodegenerative features observed across the gut-brain axis in Parkinson's disease (PD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Nunes-Costa
- CNC–Center for Neuroscience and Cell
Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra,
Portugal
- Ph.D. Programme in Biomedicine and Experimental
Biology (PDBEB), Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of
Coimbra, Coimbra,
Portugal
| | - João Duarte Magalhães
- CNC–Center for Neuroscience and Cell
Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra,
Portugal
- Ph.D. Programme in Biomedicine and Experimental
Biology (PDBEB), Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of
Coimbra, Coimbra,
Portugal
| | - Maria G-Fernandes
- CNC–Center for Neuroscience and Cell
Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra,
Portugal
| | - Sandra Morais Cardoso
- CNC–Center for Neuroscience and Cell
Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra,
Portugal
- Institute of Cellular and Molecular Biology,
Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra,
Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nuno Empadinhas
- CNC–Center for Neuroscience and Cell
Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra,
Portugal
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research
(IIIUC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra,
Portugal
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11
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Bishop SL, Murch SJ. A systematic review of analytical methods for the detection and quantification of β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA). Analyst 2019; 145:13-28. [PMID: 31742261 DOI: 10.1039/c9an01252d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are influenced by environmental factors such as exposure to toxins including the cyanotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) that can bioaccumulate in common food sources such as fish, mussels and crabs. Accurate and precise analytical methods are needed to detect and quantify BMAA to minimize human health risks. The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the methods used for BMAA analysis from 2003 to 2019 and to evaluate the reported performance characteristics for each method to determine the consensus data for each analytical approach and different sample matrices. Detailed searches of the database Web of Science™ (WoS) were performed between August 21st, 2018 and April 5th, 2019. Eligible studies included analytical methods for the detection and quantification of BMAA in cyanobacteria and bioaccumulated BMAA in higher trophic levels, in phytoplankton and zooplankton and in human tissues and fluids. This systematic review has limitations in that only the English language literature is included and it did not include standard operating protocols nor any method validation data that have not been made public. We identified 148 eligible studies, of which a positive result for BMAA in one or more samples analyzed was reported in 84% (125 out of 148) of total studies, 57% of HILIC studies, 92% of RPLC studies and 71% of other studies. The largest discrepancy between different methods arose from the analysis of cyanobacteria samples, where BMAA was detected in 95% of RPLC studies but only in 25% of HILIC studies. Without sufficient published validation of each method's performance characteristics, it is difficult to establish each method as fit for purpose for each sample matrix. The importance of establishing methods as appropriate for their intended use is evidenced by the inconsistent reporting of BMAA across environmental samples, despite its prevalence in diverse ecosystems and food webs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Bishop
- Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, British Columbia, CanadaV1V 1V7.
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12
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Production of β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and Its Isomers by Freshwater Diatoms. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11090512. [PMID: 31480725 PMCID: PMC6784237 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11090512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) is a non-protein amino acid that has been implicated as a risk factor for motor neurone disease (MND). BMAA is produced by a wide range of cyanobacteria globally and by a small number of marine diatoms. BMAA is commonly found with two of its constitutional isomers: 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (2,4-DAB), and N-(2-aminoethyl)glycine (AEG). The isomer 2,4-DAB, like BMAA, has neurotoxic properties. While many studies have shown BMAA production by cyanobacteria, few studies have looked at other algal groups. Several studies have shown BMAA production by marine diatoms; however, there are no studies examining freshwater diatoms. This study aimed to determine if some freshwater diatoms produced BMAA, and which diatom taxa are capable of BMAA, 2,4-DAB and AEG production. Five axenic diatom cultures were established from river and lake sites across eastern Australia. Cultures were harvested during the stationary growth phase and intracellular amino acids were extracted. Using liquid chromatography triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), diatom extracts were analysed for the presence of both free and protein-associated BMAA, 2,4-DAB and AEG. Of the five diatom cultures analysed, four were found to have detectable BMAA and AEG, while 2,4-DAB was found in all cultures. These results show that BMAA production by diatoms is not confined to marine genera and that the prevalence of these non-protein amino acids in Australian freshwater environments cannot be solely attributed to cyanobacteria.
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13
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Cao Y, Hu S, Gong T, Xian Q, Xu B. Decomposition of β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB) during chlorination and consequent disinfection byproducts formation. WATER RESEARCH 2019; 159:365-374. [PMID: 31112889 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2019.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2018] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB) are two newly identified algal toxins, and they may react with chlorine to undergo decomposition and generate disinfection byproducts (DBPs) during pre-chlorination as well as chlorine disinfection. In this study, the decomposition of BMAA and DAB during chlorination and the consequent DBPs formation were investigated. The BMAA and DAB concentrations in source waters were determined, the decomposition kinetics of BMAA and DAB and the formation of DBPs during chlorination were studied, the formation pathways of DBPs from BMAA and DAB were explored, and the factors which may affect the decomposition and DBPs formation were examined. The results revealed that BMAA and DAB were commonly detected in source waters from Taihu Lake, and the highest level of BMAA reached 230.8 ng/L, while the concentrations of DAB were generally around 2.0 ng/L. The decomposition of BMAA and DAB during chlorination both followed pseudo-first-order decay while the decomposition rate constant of DAB was significantly higher than that of BMAA. Trihalomethanes (THMs), haloacetic acids (HAAs), and haloacetonitriles (HANs) were all generated during the chlorination of BMAA and DAB with relatively high yields. Notably, the THMs, HAAs, and HANs yields of each carbon atom from BMAA and DAB were significantly higher than that from other organic precursors, and the formation of HANs from DAB was significantly higher than that from BMAA. The formation pathways of DBPs from BMAA and DAB were tentatively proposed and verified through theoretical calculations. Of note, the proposed formation pathways of THMs and HAAs from BMAA were similar to that from DAB, while the proposed formation pathways of HANs from BMAA and DAB showed some differences. Chlorine dose, pH and temperature all affected the decomposition of BMAA and DAB and DBPs formation during chlorination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Shaoyang Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Tingting Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Qiming Xian
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Bin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
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14
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Insufficient evidence for BMAA transfer in the pelagic and benthic food webs in the Baltic Sea. Sci Rep 2019; 9:10406. [PMID: 31320701 PMCID: PMC6639344 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-46815-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The evidence regarding BMAA occurrence in the Baltic Sea is contradictory, with benthic sources appearing to be more important than pelagic ones. The latter is counterintuitive considering that the identified sources of this compound in the food webs are pelagic primary producers, such as diatoms, dinoflagellates, and cyanobacteria. To elucidate BMAA distribution, we analyzed BMAA in the pelagic and benthic food webs in the Northern Baltic Proper. As potential sources, phytoplankton communities were used. Pelagic food chain was represented by zooplankton, mysids and zooplanktivorous fish, whereas benthic invertebrates and benthivorous fish comprised the benthic chain. The trophic structure of the system was confirmed by stable isotope analysis. Contrary to the reported ubiquitous occurrence of BMAA in the Baltic food webs, only phytoplankton, zooplankton and mysids tested positive, whereas no measurable levels of this compound occurred in the benthic invertebrates and any of the tested fish species. These findings do not support the widely assumed occurrence and transfer of BMAA to the top consumers in the Baltic food webs. More controlled experiments and field observations are needed to understand the transfer and possible transformation of BMAA in the food web under various environmental settings.
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15
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Pierozan P, Karlsson O. Mitotically heritable effects of BMAA on striatal neural stem cell proliferation and differentiation. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:478. [PMID: 31209203 PMCID: PMC6579766 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1710-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The widespread environmental contaminant β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) is a developmental neurotoxicant that can induce long-term learning and memory deficits. Studies have shown high transplacental transfer of 3H-BMAA and a significant uptake in fetal brain. Therefore, more information on how BMAA may influence growth and differentiation of neural stem cells is required for assessment of the risk to the developing brain. The aim of this study was to investigate direct and mitotically inherited effects of BMAA exposure using primary striatal neurons and embryonic neural stem cells. The neural stem cells were shown to be clearly more susceptible to BMAA exposure than primary neurons. Exposure to 250 µM BMAA reduced neural stem cell proliferation through apoptosis and G2/M arrest. At lower concentrations (50–100 µM), not affecting cell proliferation, BMAA reduced the differentiation of neural stem cells into astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and neurons through glutamatergic mechanisms. Neurons that were derived from the BMAA-treated neuronal stem cells demonstrated morphological alterations including reduced neurite length, and decreased number of processes and branches per cell. Interestingly, the BMAA-induced changes were mitotically heritable to daughter cells. The results suggest that early-life exposure to BMAA impairs neuronal stem cell programming, which is vital for development of the nervous system and may result in long-term consequences predisposing for both neurodevelopmental disorders and neurodegenerative disease later in life. More attention should be given to the potential adverse effects of BMAA exposure on brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Pierozan
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Environmental Sciences and Analytical Chemistry, Stockholm University, 114 18, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Box 591, 751 24, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Oskar Karlsson
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Environmental Sciences and Analytical Chemistry, Stockholm University, 114 18, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Box 591, 751 24, Uppsala, Sweden.
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16
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Violi JP, Mitrovic SM, Colville A, Main BJ, Rodgers KJ. Prevalence of β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and its isomers in freshwater cyanobacteria isolated from eastern Australia. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2019; 172:72-81. [PMID: 30682636 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2019.01.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Environmental exposure to the amino acid β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) was linked to the high incidence of neurodegenerative disease first reported on the island of Guam in the 1940s and has more recently been implicated in an increased incidence of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in parts of the USA. BMAA has been shown to be produced by a range of cyanobacteria and some marine diatoms and dinoflagellates in different parts of the world. BMAA is commonly found with two of its constitutional isomers: 2,4- diaminobutyric acid (2,4-DAB) and N-(2-aminoethyl) glycine (AEG). These isomers are thought to be co-produced by the same organisms that produce BMAA and MS/MS analysis following LC separation can add an additional level of specificity over LC-FL. Although the presence of BMAA and 2,4-DAB in surface scum samples from several sites in Australia has been reported, which Australian cyanobacterial species are capable of BMAA, 2,4-DAB and AEG production remains unknown. The aims of the present studies were to identify some of the cyanobacterial genera or species that can produce BMAA, 2,4-DAB and AEG in freshwater cyanobacteria blooms in eastern Australia. Eleven freshwater sites were sampled and from these, 19 single-species cyanobacterial cultures were established. Amino acids were extracted from cyanobacterial cultures and analysed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. BMAA was detected in 17 of the 19 isolates, 2,4-DAB was detected in all isolates, and AEG was detected in 18 of the 19 isolates, showing the prevalence of these amino acids in Australian freshwater cyanobacteria. Concentrations of all three isomers in Australian cyanobacteria were generally higher than the concentrations reported elsewhere. This study confirmed the presence of BMAA and its isomers in cyanobacteria isolated from eastern Australian freshwater systems, and determined which Australian cyanobacterial genera or species were capable of producing them when cultured under laboratory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake P Violi
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Simon M Mitrovic
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Anne Colville
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Brendan J Main
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Kenneth J Rodgers
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia.
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17
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Manolidi K, Triantis TM, Kaloudis T, Hiskia A. Neurotoxin BMAA and its isomeric amino acids in cyanobacteria and cyanobacteria-based food supplements. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2019; 365:346-365. [PMID: 30448548 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2018.10.084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Revised: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 10/27/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Cyanobacteria are photosynthetic microorganisms distributed globally in aquatic and terrestrial environments. They are also industrially cultivated to be used as dietary supplements, as they have a high nutritional value; however, they are also known to produce a wide range of toxic secondary metabolites, called cyanotoxins. BMAA (β-methylamino-l-alanine) and its most common structural isomers, DAB (2,4-diaminobutyric acid) and AEG (N-2-aminoethylglycine) produced by cyanobacteria, are non-proteinogenic amino acids that have been associated with neurodegenerative diseases. A possible route of exposure to those amino acids is through consumption of food supplements based on cyanobacteria. The review critically discusses existing reports regarding the occurrence of BMAA, DAB and AEG in cyanobacteria and cyanobacteria-based food supplements. It is shown that inconsistencies in reported results could be attributed to performance of different methods of extraction and analysis applied and in ambiguities regarding determination of soluble and bound fractions of the compounds. The critical aspect of this review aims to grow awareness of human intake of neurotoxic amino acids, while results presented in literature concerning dietary supplements aim to promote further research, quality control as well as development of guidelines for cyanotoxins in food products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Korina Manolidi
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, National Center for Scientific Research "DEMOKRITOS", Patriarchou Grigoriou E' & Neapoleos 27, 15341, Athens, Greece; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Chemistry, 15784, Panepistimiopolis, Athens, Greece.
| | - Theodoros M Triantis
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, National Center for Scientific Research "DEMOKRITOS", Patriarchou Grigoriou E' & Neapoleos 27, 15341, Athens, Greece.
| | - Triantafyllos Kaloudis
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, National Center for Scientific Research "DEMOKRITOS", Patriarchou Grigoriou E' & Neapoleos 27, 15341, Athens, Greece; Water Quality Control Department, Athens Water Supply and Sewerage Company - EYDAP SA, Athens, Greece.
| | - Anastasia Hiskia
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, National Center for Scientific Research "DEMOKRITOS", Patriarchou Grigoriou E' & Neapoleos 27, 15341, Athens, Greece.
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18
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Rutkowska M, Płotka-Wasylka J, Majchrzak T, Wojnowski W, Mazur-Marzec H, Namieśnik J. Recent trends in determination of neurotoxins in aquatic environmental samples. Trends Analyt Chem 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2019.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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19
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Cyanobacterial Neurotoxin Beta-Methyl-Amino-l-Alanine Affects Dopaminergic Neurons in Optic Ganglia and Brain of Daphnia magna. Toxins (Basel) 2018; 10:toxins10120527. [PMID: 30544796 PMCID: PMC6315693 DOI: 10.3390/toxins10120527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2018] [Revised: 12/02/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The non-proteinogenic amino acid beta-methyl-amino-l-alanine (BMAA) is a neurotoxin produced by cyanobacteria. BMAA accumulation in the brain of animals via biomagnification along the food web can contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/Parkinsonism dementia complex (ALS/PDC), the latter being associated with a loss of dopaminergic neurons. Daphnia magna is an important microcrustacean zooplankton species that plays a key role in aquatic food webs, and BMAA-producing cyanobacteria often form part of their diet. Here, we tested the effects of BMAA on putative neurodegeneration of newly identified specific dopaminergic neurons in the optic ganglia/brain complex of D. magna using quantitative tyrosine-hydroxylase immunohistochemistry and fluorescence cytometry. The dopaminergic system was analysed in fed and starved isogenic D. magna adults incubated under different BMAA concentrations over 4 days. Increased BMAA concentration showed significant decrease in the stainability of dopaminergic neurons of D. magna, with fed animals showing a more extreme loss. Furthermore, higher BMAA concentrations tended to increase offspring mortality during incubation. These results are indicative of ingested BMAA causing neurodegeneration of dopaminergic neurons in D. magna and adversely affecting reproduction. This may imply similar effects of BMAA on known human neurodegenerative diseases involving dopaminergic neurons.
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20
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Ubiquity of the neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine and its isomers confirmed by two different mass spectrometric methods in diverse marine mollusks. Toxicon 2018; 151:129-136. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Revised: 05/24/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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21
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Scott LL, Downing S, Downing T. Potential for dietary exposure to β-N-methylamino-L-alanine and microcystin from a freshwater system. Toxicon 2018; 150:261-266. [PMID: 29920255 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.06.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2017] [Revised: 06/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The suggested link between β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and the onset of neurodegenerative diseases and the detection of this cyanotoxin in aquatic organisms has prompted research into the potential human exposure risk associated with sourcing food items from eutrophied water bodies worldwide. The Hartbeespoort Dam reservoir in the North West province of South Africa has persistent cyanobacterial blooms and is used extensively by anglers, many of whom consume their catch. The commercial sale of fish species harvested from this reservoir as part of a recent biomanipulative remediation strategy may pose an additional hazard. BMAA and Microcystins (MC) were detected in fish sourced from this reservoir. BMAA levels of up to 1630 ng g-1 dry weight and MC concentrations of up to 29.44 ng g-1 dry weight were detected in fish sourced during an extensive bloom episode, with a clear correlation between the total amount of BMAA detected in the fish muscle tissue and their relative position in the Hartbeespoort Dam reservoir food web. Interestingly, fish sourced from this reservoir in winter when dense cyanobacterial blooms were lacking contained BMAA levels of up to 3055 ng g-1 dry weight. We also comment on the observed seasonal variations of BMAA levels in phytoplankton and fish sourced from this water body as well as the potential exposure risks associated with harvesting food items from this reservoir.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura L Scott
- Department of Biochemistry & Microbiology, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa
| | - Simoné Downing
- Department of Biochemistry & Microbiology, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa
| | - Tim Downing
- Department of Biochemistry & Microbiology, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa.
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22
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Main BJ, Bowling LC, Padula MP, Bishop DP, Mitrovic SM, Guillemin GJ, Rodgers KJ. Detection of the suspected neurotoxin β-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) in cyanobacterial blooms from multiple water bodies in Eastern Australia. HARMFUL ALGAE 2018; 74:10-18. [PMID: 29724339 DOI: 10.1016/j.hal.2018.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Revised: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The emerging toxin β-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) has been linked to the development of a number of neurodegenerative diseases in humans including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. BMAA has been found to be produced by a range of cyanobacteria, diatoms, and dinoflagellates worldwide, and is present in freshwater, saltwater, and terrestrial ecosystems. Surface scum samples were collected from waterways in rural and urban New South Wales, Australia and algal species identified. Reverse phase liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was used to analyse sixteen cyanobacterial scum for the presence of BMAA as well as its toxic structural isomer 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (2,4-DAB). BMAA was detected in ten of the samples analysed, and 2,4-DAB in all sixteen. The presence of these toxins in water used for agriculture raises concerns for public health and food security in Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan J Main
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Lee C Bowling
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia; DPI Water, NSW Department of Primary Industries, Menangle, NSW, 2568, Australia
| | - Matthew P Padula
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - David P Bishop
- Elemental Bio-imaging Facility, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Simon M Mitrovic
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Gilles J Guillemin
- MND Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Kenneth J Rodgers
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia.
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23
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Andersson M, Karlsson O, Brandt I. The environmental neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (l-BMAA) is deposited into birds' eggs. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2018; 147:720-724. [PMID: 28942274 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2017.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The neurotoxic amino acid β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) has been implicated in the etiology of neurodegenerative disorders. BMAA is also a known developmental neurotoxin and research indicates that the sources of human and wildlife exposure may be more diverse than previously anticipated. The aim of the present study was therefore to examine whether BMAA can be transferred into birds' eggs. Egg laying quail were dosed with 14C-labeled BMAA. The distribution of radioactivity in the birds and their laid eggs was then examined at different time points by autoradiography and phosphoimaging analysis. To evaluate the metabolic stability of the BMAA molecule, the distribution of 14C-methyl- and 14C-carboxyl-labeled BMAA were compared. The results revealed a pronounced incorporation of radioactivity in the eggs, predominantly in the yolk but also in the albumen. Imaging analysis showed that the concentrations of radioactivity in the liver decreased about seven times between the 24h and the 72h time points, while the concentrations in egg yolk remained largely unchanged. At 72h the egg yolk contained about five times the concentration of radioactivity in the liver. Both BMAA preparations gave rise to similar distribution pattern in the bird tissues and in the eggs, indicating metabolic stability of the labeled groups. The demonstrated deposition into eggs warrants studies of BMAAs effects on bird development. Moreover, birds' eggs may be a source of human BMAA exposure, provided that the laying birds are exposed to BMAA via their diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Andersson
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, SE-752 36 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Oskar Karlsson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Center for Molecular Medicine, SE-17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ingvar Brandt
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, SE-752 36 Uppsala, Sweden.
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Nunn PB. 50 years of research on α-amino-β-methylaminopropionic acid (β-methylaminoalanine). PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2017; 144:271-281. [PMID: 29102875 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2017.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2017] [Revised: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/13/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The isolation of α-amino-β-methylaminopropionic acid from seeds of Cycas circinalis (now C. micronesica Hill) resulted from a purposeful attempt to establish the cause of the profound neurological disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/parkinsonism/dementia, that existed in high frequency amongst the inhabitants of the western Pacific island of Guam (Guam ALS/PD). In the 50 years since its discovery the amino acid has been a stimulus, and sometimes a subject of mockery, for generations of scientists in a remarkably diverse range of subject areas. The number of citations of the original paper has risen in the five decades from a few to 120 within the decade 2007-2016 and continues at a high rate into the next decade. The reasons for this remarkable outcome are discussed and examples from the literature are used to illustrate the wide range of scientific interest that the original paper generated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter B Nunn
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Portsmouth, St Michael's Building, White Swan Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO1 2DT, UK.
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25
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Regueiro J, Negreira N, Carreira-Casais A, Pérez-Lamela C, Simal-Gándara J. Dietary exposure and neurotoxicity of the environmental free and bound toxin β- N -methylamino- l -alanine. Food Res Int 2017; 100:1-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2017.07.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2017] [Revised: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/16/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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26
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Salas D, Borrull F, Fontanals N, Marcé RM. Hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry-based detection to determine emerging organic contaminants in environmental samples. Trends Analyt Chem 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2017.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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27
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Rodgers KJ, Main BJ, Samardzic K. Cyanobacterial Neurotoxins: Their Occurrence and Mechanisms of Toxicity. Neurotox Res 2017; 33:168-177. [DOI: 10.1007/s12640-017-9757-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Revised: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Miller TR, Beversdorf LJ, Weirich CA, Bartlett SL. Cyanobacterial Toxins of the Laurentian Great Lakes, Their Toxicological Effects, and Numerical Limits in Drinking Water. Mar Drugs 2017; 15:E160. [PMID: 28574457 PMCID: PMC5484110 DOI: 10.3390/md15060160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2017] [Revised: 04/22/2017] [Accepted: 05/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyanobacteria are ubiquitous phototrophic bacteria that inhabit diverse environments across the planet. Seasonally, they dominate many eutrophic lakes impacted by excess nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) forming dense accumulations of biomass known as cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms or cyanoHABs. Their dominance in eutrophic lakes is attributed to a variety of unique adaptations including N and P concentrating mechanisms, N₂ fixation, colony formation that inhibits predation, vertical movement via gas vesicles, and the production of toxic or otherwise bioactive molecules. While some of these molecules have been explored for their medicinal benefits, others are potent toxins harmful to humans, animals, and other wildlife known as cyanotoxins. In humans these cyanotoxins affect various tissues, including the liver, central and peripheral nervous system, kidneys, and reproductive organs among others. They induce acute effects at low doses in the parts-per-billion range and some are tumor promoters linked to chronic diseases such as liver and colorectal cancer. The occurrence of cyanoHABs and cyanotoxins in lakes presents challenges for maintaining safe recreational aquatic environments and the production of potable drinking water. CyanoHABs are a growing problem in the North American (Laurentian) Great Lakes basin. This review summarizes information on the occurrence of cyanoHABs in the Great Lakes, toxicological effects of cyanotoxins, and appropriate numerical limits on cyanotoxins in finished drinking water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Todd R Miller
- Joseph J. Zilber School of Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53211, USA.
| | - Lucas J Beversdorf
- Joseph J. Zilber School of Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53211, USA.
| | - Chelsea A Weirich
- Joseph J. Zilber School of Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53211, USA.
| | - Sarah L Bartlett
- Joseph J. Zilber School of Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53211, USA.
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29
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Andersson M, Ersson L, Brandt I, Bergström U. Potential transfer of neurotoxic amino acid β-N-methylamino-alanine (BMAA) from mother to infant during breast-feeding: Predictions from human cell lines. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2017; 320:40-50. [PMID: 28174119 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2017.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Revised: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 02/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
β-N-methylamino-alanine (BMAA) is a non-protein amino acid produced by cyanobacteria, diatoms and dinoflagellates. BMAA has potential to biomagnify in a terrestrial food chain, and to bioaccumulate in fish and shellfish. We have reported that administration of [14C]l-BMAA to lactating mice and rats results in a mother to off-spring transfer via the milk. A preferential enantiomer-specific uptake of [14C]l-BMAA has also been demonstrated in differentiated murine mammary epithelium HC11 cells. These findings, together with neurotoxic effects of BMAA demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo, highlight the need to determine whether such transfer could also occur in humans. Here, we used four cell lines of human origin to examine and compare the transport of the two BMAA enantiomers in vitro. The uptake patterns of [14C]l- and [14C]d-BMAA in the human mammary MCF7 cell line were in agreement with the results in murine HC11 cells, suggesting a potential secretion of BMAA into human breast milk. The permeability coefficients for both [14C]l- and [14C]d-BMAA over monolayers of human intestinal Caco2 cells supported an efficient absorption from the human intestine. As a final step, transport experiments confirmed that [14C]l-and [14C]d-BMAA can be taken up by human SHSY5Y neuroblastoma cells and even more efficiently by human U343 glioblastoma cells. In competition experiments with various amino acids, the ASCT2 specific inhibitor benzylserine was the most effective inhibitor of [14C]l-BMAA uptake tested here. Altogether, our results suggest that BMAA can be transferred from an exposed mother, via the milk, to the brain of the nursed infant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Andersson
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18A, SE-752 36 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lisa Ersson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Box 591, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ingvar Brandt
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18A, SE-752 36 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Ulrika Bergström
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18A, SE-752 36 Uppsala, Sweden; Swedish Defence Research Agency, Division of CBRN Defence and Security, SE-164 90 Stockholm, Sweden
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30
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Li A, Song J, Hu Y, Deng L, Ding L, Li M. New Typical Vector of Neurotoxin β-N-Methylamino-l-Alanine (BMAA) in the Marine Benthic Ecosystem. Mar Drugs 2016; 14:md14110202. [PMID: 27827914 PMCID: PMC5128745 DOI: 10.3390/md14110202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2016] [Revised: 10/01/2016] [Accepted: 10/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) has been identified as an environmental factor triggering neurodegenerative diseases such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). We investigated the possible vectors of BMAA and its isomers 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB) and N-2(aminoethyl)glycine (AEG) in marine mollusks collected from the Chinese coast. Sixty-eight samples of marine mollusks were collected along the Chinese coast in 2016, and were analyzed by an HILIC-MS/MS (hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography with tandem quadrupole mass spectrometer) method without derivatization. BMAA was detected in a total of five samples from three species: Neverita didyma, Solen strictus, and Mytilus coruscus. The top three concentrations of free-form BMAA (0.99~3.97 μg·g-1 wet weight) were detected in N. didyma. DAB was universally detected in most of the mollusk samples (53/68) with no species-specific or regional differences (0.051~2.65 μg·g-1 wet weight). No AEG was detected in any mollusk samples tested here. The results indicate that the gastropod N. didyma might be an important vector of the neurotoxin BMAA in the Chinese marine ecosystem. The neurotoxin DAB was universally present in marine bivalve and gastropod mollusks. Since N. didyma is consumed by humans, we suggest that the origin and risk of BMAA and DAB toxins in the marine ecosystem should be further investigated in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aifeng Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China.
- Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China.
| | - Jialiang Song
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China.
| | - Yang Hu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China.
| | - Longji Deng
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China.
| | - Ling Ding
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China.
| | - Meihui Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China.
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31
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Porojan C, Mitrovic SM, Yeo DCJ, Furey A. Overview of the potent cyanobacterial neurotoxin β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and its analytical determination. Food Addit Contam Part A Chem Anal Control Expo Risk Assess 2016; 33:1570-1586. [PMID: 27652898 DOI: 10.1080/19440049.2016.1217070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Blue-green algae are responsible for the production of different types of toxins which can be neurotoxic, hepatotoxic, cytotoxic and dermatotoxic and that can affect both aquatic and terrestrial life. Since its discovery the neurotoxin β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) has been a cause for concern, being associated with the neurodegenerative disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/Parkinsonism-dementia complex (ALS/PDC). The initial focus was on Guam where it was observed that a high number of people were affected by the ALS/PDC complex. Subsequently, researchers were surprised to find levels of BMAA in post mortem brains from Canadian patients who also suffered from ALS/PDC. Recent research demonstrates that BMAA has been found at different levels in the aquatic food web in the brackish waters of the Baltic Sea. There is emerging evidence to suggest that sand-borne algae from Qatar can also contain BMAA. Furthermore, there is now concern because BMAA has been found not only in warmer regions of the world but also in temperate regions like Europe. The aim of this review is to focus on the methods of extraction and analysis of the neurotoxic non-protein amino acid BMAA. We also consider the neurotoxicity, aetiology, and diverse sources and routes of exposure to BMAA. In recent years, different methods have been developed for the analysis of BMAA. Some of these use HPLC-FD, UPLC-UV, UPLC-MS and LC-MS/MS using samples that have been derivatised or underivatised. To date the LC-MS/MS approach is the most widely used analytical technique as it is the most selective and sensitive method for BMAA determination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Porojan
- a Mass Spectrometry Research Centre (MSRC), Department of Physical Sciences , Cork Institute of Technology , Cork , Ireland
| | - Simon M Mitrovic
- b Freshwater & Invasion Biology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences , National University of Singapore , Singapore.,c School of the Environment , University of Technology , Sydney , NSW , Australia
| | - Darren C J Yeo
- b Freshwater & Invasion Biology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences , National University of Singapore , Singapore
| | - Ambrose Furey
- a Mass Spectrometry Research Centre (MSRC), Department of Physical Sciences , Cork Institute of Technology , Cork , Ireland
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32
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Rosén J, Westerberg E, Hellenäs KE, Salomonsson ML. A new method for analysis of underivatized free β-methylamino-alanine: Validation and method comparison. Toxicon 2016; 121:105-108. [PMID: 27592200 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2016.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2016] [Revised: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A new method was developed for analysis of free β-Methylamino-alanine (BMAA) in biological matrices. The method is based on direct analysis of the underivatized molecule, using an amide column for separation by Hydrophilic Interaction Liquid Chromatography (HILIC) and detection by tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) using a deuterium labeled internal standard. The use of Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography (UHPLC) combined with MS/MS detection allowed for high chromatographic resolution and a low limit of detection (0.025 μg/g wet weight (ww) in mussels). The method was validated by analyzing spiked blank mussels from the Baltic Sea (0.15-4.4 μg/g (ww), trueness 99%-105%, RSD 2%-8%). An inter-laboratory comparative analysis of extracts of mussel was performed. The mussels were extracted according to an established protocol for analysis of free BMAA, and the extracts were then analyzed in parallel by the new method and a validated procedure based on detection of BMAA derivatized with dansyl chloride. Both methods detected BMAA in similar concentrations. Thus, derivatization with dansyl chloride did not influence the results compared to direct detection. The new method presents an alternative to the commonly applied derivatization step, and is proved through validation and method comparison to reliably identify and quantify free BMAA at low concentration levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan Rosén
- National Food Agency, Box 622, SE-751 26, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | | | | | - Matilda L Salomonsson
- Section of Chemical Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Environment and Feed Hygiene, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), SE-751 89 Uppsala, Sweden; Division of Analytical Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Uppsala University, BMC, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
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33
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Otten TG, Paerl HW. Health Effects of Toxic Cyanobacteria in U.S. Drinking and Recreational Waters: Our Current Understanding and Proposed Direction. Curr Environ Health Rep 2016; 2:75-84. [PMID: 26231244 DOI: 10.1007/s40572-014-0041-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Cyanobacterial-derived water quality impairment issues are a growing concern worldwide. In addition to their ecological impacts, these organisms are prolific producers of bioactive secondary metabolites, many of which are known human intoxicants. To date only a handful of these compounds have been thoroughly studied and their toxicological risks estimated. While there are currently no national guidelines in place to deal with this issue, it is increasingly likely that within the next several years guidelines will be implemented. The intent of this review is to survey all relevant literature pertaining to cyanobacterial harmful algal bloom secondary metabolites, to inform a discussion on how best to manage this global public health threat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy G Otten
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, 226 Nash Hall, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA,
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Takser L, Benachour N, Husk B, Cabana H, Gris D. Cyanotoxins at low doses induce apoptosis and inflammatory effects in murine brain cells: Potential implications for neurodegenerative diseases. Toxicol Rep 2016; 3:180-189. [PMID: 28959538 PMCID: PMC5615428 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2015.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2015] [Revised: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 12/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyanotoxins have been shown to be highly toxic for mammalian cells, including brain cells. However, little is known about their effect on inflammatory pathways. This study investigated whether mammalian brain and immune cells can be a target of certain cyanotoxins, at doses approximating those in the guideline levels for drinking water, either alone or in mixtures. We examined the effects on cellular viability, apoptosis and inflammation signalling of several toxins on murine macrophage-like RAW264.7, microglial BV-2 and neuroblastoma N2a cell lines. We tested cylindrospermopsin (CYN), microcystin-LR (MC-LR), and anatoxin-a (ATX-a), individually as well as their mixture. In addition, we studied the neurotoxins β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) and its isomer 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB), as well as the mixture of both. Cellular viability was determined by the MTT assay. Apoptosis induction was assessed by measuring the activation of caspases 3/7. Cell death and inflammation are the hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, our final step was to quantify the expression of a major proinflammatory cytokine TNF-α by ELISA. Our results show that CYN, MC-LR and ATX-a, but not BMAA and DAB, at low doses, especially when present in a mixture at threefold less concentrations than individual compounds are 3–15 times more potent at inducing apoptosis and inflammation. Our results suggest that common cyanotoxins at low doses have a potential to induce inflammation and apoptosis in immune and brain cells. Further research of the neuroinflammatory effects of these compounds in vivo is needed to improve safety limit levels for cyanotoxins in drinking water and food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Takser
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, J1H 5N4 Quebec, Canada
| | - Nora Benachour
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, J1H 5N4 Quebec, Canada
| | - Barry Husk
- BlueLeaf Inc., 310 Chapleau Street, Drummondville, J2B 5E9 Quebec, Canada
| | - Hubert Cabana
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Department of Civil Engineering, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, J1K 2R1 Quebec, Canada
| | - Denis Gris
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, J1H 5N4 Quebec, Canada
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Baptista MS, Vasconcelos RGW, Ferreira PC, Almeida CMR, Vasconcelos VM. Assessment of the non-protein amino acid BMAA in Mediterranean mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis after feeding with estuarine cyanobacteria. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:12501-10. [PMID: 25903181 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-4516-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2015] [Accepted: 04/07/2015] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
To determine whether 2-amino-3-methylaminopropanoic acid (BMAA) could be taken up by marine organisms from seawater or their diet mussels Mytilus galloprovincialis, collected from the North Atlantic Portuguese shore, were exposed to seawater doped with BMAA standard (for up to 48 h) or fed with cyanobacteria (for up to 15 days). Mussels were able to uptake BMAA when exposed to seawater. Mussels fed with cyanobacteria Synechocystis salina showed a rise in BMAA concentration during feeding and a decline in concentration during the subsequent depuration period. Cells from the gills and hepatopancreas of mussels fed with S. salina showed lessened metabolic activity in mussels fed for longer periods of time. A hot acidic digestion (considered to account for total BMAA) was compared with a proteolytic digestion, using pepsin, trypsin and chymotrypsin. The latter was able to extract from mussels approximately 30% of total BMAA. Implications for BMAA trophic transfers in marine ecosystems are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mafalda S Baptista
- CIMAR/CIIMAR-Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, Universityof Porto, Rua dos Bragas 289, 4050-123, Porto, Portugal,
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36
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Roy-Lachapelle A, Solliec M, Sauvé S. Determination of BMAA and three alkaloid cyanotoxins in lake water using dansyl chloride derivatization and high-resolution mass spectrometry. Anal Bioanal Chem 2015; 407:5487-501. [DOI: 10.1007/s00216-015-8722-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Revised: 04/13/2015] [Accepted: 04/17/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Fan H, Qiu J, Fan L, Li A. Effects of growth conditions on the production of neurotoxin 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB) in Microcystis aeruginosa and its universal presence in diverse cyanobacteria isolated from freshwater in China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:5943-51. [PMID: 25354443 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-014-3766-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2014] [Accepted: 10/22/2014] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Neurotoxins β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and its isomer 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB) have been reported previously in diverse strains of cyanobacteria. In this study, BMAA and DAB were analyzed for two strains of Microcystis aeruginosa incubated with four different levels of phosphate, nitrate, illumination, and temperature, respectively, in order to explore the effects of growth factors on toxin-producing ability of cyanobacteria. Both toxins were also screened in 17 cyanobacterial strains cultured with BG-11 medium and conventional illumination and temperature conditions, and in three field phytoplankton samples collected from different lakes in China. All samples were analyzed using a liquid chromatography-tandem quadrupole mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) system coupled with a hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) column. Results showed that no BMAA was detected in any of the cyanobacterial strains grown under our laboratory culture conditions, or in any of the field samples. Production of DAB in M. aeruginosa was significantly enhanced by extreme concentrations of nutrient and physical factors. Various concentrations of DAB were also present in most cultured samples (13 of 17) of cyanobacteria and were not species specific. This is the first time to report the production of DAB in M. aeruginosa cultured under alterative conditions in laboratory. Occurrence of DAB in most of the strains examined here means that consideration should be given to the presence of this compound in freshwater environment in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Fan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, China
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38
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Chiu AS, Braidy N, Marçal H, Welch JH, Gehringer MM, Guillemin GJ, Neilan BA. Global cellular responses to β-methyl-amino-L-alanine (BMAA) by olfactory ensheathing glial cells (OEC). Toxicon 2015; 99:136-45. [PMID: 25797319 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2015.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2014] [Revised: 03/13/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
This study utilised a proteomics approach to identify any differential protein expression in a glial cell line, rat olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs), treated with the cyanotoxin β-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA). Five proteins of interest were identified, namely Rho GDP-dissociation inhibitor 1 (RhoGDP1), Nck-associated protein 1 (NCKAP1), voltage-dependent anion-selective channel protein 1 (VDAC1), 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase type-2 (3hCoAdh2), and ubiquilin-4 (UBQLN4). Four of these candidates, nuclear receptor subfamily 4 group A member 1 (Nur77), cyclophilin A (CyPA), RhoGDP1 and VDAC1, have been reported to be involved in cell growth. A microarray identified UBQLN4, palladin and CyPA, which have been implicated to have roles in excitotoxicity. Moreover, the NCKAP1, UBQLN4, CyPA and 3hCoAdh2 genes have been associated with abnormal protein aggregation. Differential expression of genes involved in mitochondrial activity, Nur77, 3hCoAdh2, VDAC1 and UBQLN4, were also identified. Confirmatory reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) analysis of transcripts generated from the genes of interest corroborated the differential expression trends identified in the global protein analysis. BMAA induced cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase of OEC and apoptosis after 48 h at concentrations of 250 μM and 500 μM. Collectively, this work advances our understanding of the mechanism of BMAA-mediated glial-toxicity in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander S Chiu
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nady Braidy
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing, School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Helder Marçal
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jeffrey H Welch
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michelle M Gehringer
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Gilles J Guillemin
- Neuroinflammation Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Australia
| | - Brett A Neilan
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
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39
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Lage S, Annadotter H, Rasmussen U, Rydberg S. Biotransfer of β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) in a eutrophicated freshwater lake. Mar Drugs 2015; 13:1185-201. [PMID: 25738330 PMCID: PMC4377979 DOI: 10.3390/md13031185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2014] [Revised: 02/10/2015] [Accepted: 02/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
β-N-Methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA), a neurotoxic non-protein amino acid, plays a significant role as an environmental risk factor in neurodegenerative diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. BMAA producers occur globally, colonizing almost all habitats and represent species from distinct phytoplanktonic groups, i.e., cyanobacteria, diatoms, and dinoflagellates. Bioaccumulation of BMAA in invertebrate and vertebrate organisms has also been registered around the globe. In the Baltic Sea, BMAA has been detected in several commercial fish species, raising the question of the bioaccumulation of BMAA in Swedish limnic systems. Here we find the presence of BMAA in water samples from Lake Finjasjön and identify its bioaccumulation patterns in both plankti-benthivorous and piscivorous fish, according to fish species, total weight, gender, and season of collection. For the first time, a large number of fish individuals were used in order to draw conclusions on BMAA bioaccumulation in a closed ecological community based on a statistical approach. We may, therefore, conclude that feeding patterns (plankti-benthivorous) and increased age of fish may lead to a higher tissue concentration of BMAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Lage
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences, Stockholm University, 10654 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | | | - Ulla Rasmussen
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences, Stockholm University, 10654 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Sara Rydberg
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences, Stockholm University, 10654 Stockholm, Sweden.
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Réveillon D, Abadie E, Séchet V, Brient L, Savar V, Bardouil M, Hess P, Amzil Z. Beta-N-methylamino-L-alanine: LC-MS/MS optimization, screening of cyanobacterial strains and occurrence in shellfish from Thau, a French Mediterranean lagoon. Mar Drugs 2014; 12:5441-67. [PMID: 25405857 PMCID: PMC4245540 DOI: 10.3390/md12115441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2014] [Revised: 10/28/2014] [Accepted: 11/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) is a neurotoxic non-protein amino acid suggested to be involved in neurodegenerative diseases. It was reported to be produced by cyanobacteria, but also found in edible aquatic organisms, thus raising concern of a widespread human exposure. However, the chemical analysis of BMAA and its isomers are controversial, mainly due to the lack of selectivity of the analytical methods. Using factorial design, we have optimized the chromatographic separation of underivatized analogues by a hydrophilic interaction chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (HILIC-MS/MS) method. A combination of an effective solid phase extraction (SPE) clean-up, appropriate chromatographic resolution and the use of specific mass spectral transitions allowed for the development of a highly selective and sensitive analytical procedure to identify and quantify BMAA and its isomers (in both free and total form) in cyanobacteria and mollusk matrices (LOQ of 0.225 and 0.15 µg/g dry weight, respectively). Ten species of cyanobacteria (six are reported to be BMAA producers) were screened with this method, and neither free nor bound BMAA could be found, while both free and bound DAB were present in almost all samples. Mussels and oysters collected in 2009 in the Thau Lagoon, France, were also screened, and bound BMAA and its two isomers, DAB and AEG, were observed in all samples (from 0.6 to 14.4 µg/g DW), while only several samples contained quantifiable free BMAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien Réveillon
- Ifremer (French Research Institute for the Exploitation of the Seas), Phycotoxins Laboratory, rue de l'Ile d'Yeu, BP 21105, F-44311 Nantes, France.
| | - Eric Abadie
- Ifremer (French Research Institute for the Exploitation of the Seas), Laboratoire Environnement Ressources du Languedoc Roussillon (LER-LR) F-34203 Sète, France.
| | - Véronique Séchet
- Ifremer (French Research Institute for the Exploitation of the Seas), Phycotoxins Laboratory, rue de l'Ile d'Yeu, BP 21105, F-44311 Nantes, France.
| | - Luc Brient
- UMR Eco-Bio-Université de Rennes I, F-35042 Rennes, France.
| | - Véronique Savar
- Ifremer (French Research Institute for the Exploitation of the Seas), Phycotoxins Laboratory, rue de l'Ile d'Yeu, BP 21105, F-44311 Nantes, France.
| | - Michèle Bardouil
- Ifremer (French Research Institute for the Exploitation of the Seas), Phycotoxins Laboratory, rue de l'Ile d'Yeu, BP 21105, F-44311 Nantes, France.
| | - Philipp Hess
- Ifremer (French Research Institute for the Exploitation of the Seas), Phycotoxins Laboratory, rue de l'Ile d'Yeu, BP 21105, F-44311 Nantes, France.
| | - Zouher Amzil
- Ifremer (French Research Institute for the Exploitation of the Seas), Phycotoxins Laboratory, rue de l'Ile d'Yeu, BP 21105, F-44311 Nantes, France.
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Lage S, Costa PR, Moita T, Eriksson J, Rasmussen U, Rydberg SJ. BMAA in shellfish from two Portuguese transitional water bodies suggests the marine dinoflagellate Gymnodinium catenatum as a potential BMAA source. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2014; 152:131-8. [PMID: 24747603 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2014.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2014] [Revised: 03/28/2014] [Accepted: 03/31/2014] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) and its putative role in multiple neurodegenerative diseases have been intensely studied since 2005 when the toxin was discovered to be produced by worldwide-distributed cyanobacterial species inhabiting terrestrial, marine, brackish, and freshwater ecosystems. Recently, BMAA production was also associated with one eukaryotic group, namely, diatoms, raising questions about its production by other phytoplanktonic groups. To test for BMAA bioavailability in ecosystems where abundant phytoplanktonic blooms regularly occur, samples of filter-feeding shellfish were collected in two Portuguese transitional water bodies. BMAA content in cockles (Cerastoderma edule) collected weekly between September and November 2009 from Ria de Aveiro and at least once a month from May to November from Ria Formosa, fluctuated from 0.079±0.055 to 0.354±0.066μg/g DW and from below the limit of detection to 0.434±0.110μg/g DW, respectively. Simultaneously to BMAA occurrence in cockles, paralytic shellfish toxins were detected in shellfish as a result of Gymnodinium catenatum blooms indicating a possible link between this marine dinoflagellate and BMAA production. Moreover, considerable high BMAA levels, 0.457±0.186μg/g DW, were then determined in a laboratory grown culture of G. catenatum. This work reveals for the first time the presence of BMAA in shellfish from Atlantic transitional water bodies and consubstantiate evidences of G. catenatum as one of the main sources of BMAA in these ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Lage
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences, Stockholm University, 10654 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pedro Reis Costa
- IPMA - Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera, Av. Brasília, 1449-006 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Teresa Moita
- IPMA - Instituto Português do Mar e da Atmosfera, Av. Brasília, 1449-006 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Johan Eriksson
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences, Stockholm University, 10654 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulla Rasmussen
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences, Stockholm University, 10654 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sara Jonasson Rydberg
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences, Stockholm University, 10654 Stockholm, Sweden.
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Presence of the neurotoxin BMAA in aquatic ecosystems: what do we really know? Toxins (Basel) 2014; 6:1109-38. [PMID: 24662480 PMCID: PMC3968380 DOI: 10.3390/toxins6031109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2014] [Revised: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 03/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) is suspected to play a role in the neurological diseases amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. BMAA production by cyanobacteria has been reported and contact with cyanobacteria infested waters or consumption of aquatic organisms are possible pathways to human exposure. However, there is little consensus regarding whether BMAA is present in cyanobacteria or not, and if so, at what concentrations. The aim of this review is to indicate the current state of knowledge on the presence of BMAA in aquatic ecosystems. Some studies have convincingly shown that BMAA can be present in aquatic samples at the µg/g dry weight level, which is around the detection limit of some equally credible studies in which no BMAA was detected. However, for the majority of the reviewed articles, it was unclear whether BMAA was correctly identified, either because inadequate analytical methods were used, or because poor reporting of analyses made it impossible to verify the results. Poor analysis, reporting and prolific errors have shaken the foundations of BMAA research. First steps towards estimation of human BMAA exposure are to develop and use selective, inter-laboratory validated methods and to correctly report the analytical work.
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Al-Sammak MA, Hoagland KD, Cassada D, Snow DD. Co-occurrence of the cyanotoxins BMAA, DABA and anatoxin-a in Nebraska reservoirs, fish, and aquatic plants. Toxins (Basel) 2014; 6:488-508. [PMID: 24476710 PMCID: PMC3942747 DOI: 10.3390/toxins6020488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2013] [Revised: 12/19/2013] [Accepted: 01/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Several groups of microorganisms are capable of producing toxins in aquatic environments. Cyanobacteria are prevalent blue green algae in freshwater systems, and many species produce cyanotoxins which include a variety of chemical irritants, hepatotoxins and neurotoxins. Production and occurrence of potent neurotoxic cyanotoxins β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA), 2,4-diaminobutyric acid dihydrochloride (DABA), and anatoxin-a are especially critical with environmental implications to public and animal health. Biomagnification, though not well understood in aquatic systems, is potentially relevant to both human and animal health effects. Because little is known regarding their presence in fresh water, we investigated the occurrence and potential for bioaccumulation of cyanotoxins in several Nebraska reservoirs. Collection and analysis of 387 environmental and biological samples (water, fish, and aquatic plant) provided a snapshot of their occurrence. A sensitive detection method was developed using solid phase extraction (SPE) in combination with high pressure liquid chromatography-fluorescence detection (HPLC/FD) with confirmation by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS). HPLC/FD detection limits ranged from 5 to 7 µg/L and LC/MS/MS detection limits were <0.5 µg/L, while detection limits for biological samples were in the range of 0.8–3.2 ng/g depending on the matrix. Based on these methods, measurable levels of these neurotoxic compounds were detected in approximately 25% of the samples, with detections of BMAA in about 18.1%, DABA in 17.1%, and anatoxin-a in 11.9%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maitham Ahmed Al-Sammak
- Environmental Health, Occupational Health, & Toxicology, Tropical Biological Researches Unit, College of Science, University of Baghdad, Baghdad 10071, Iraq; E-Mail:
- Nebraska Water Center and School of Natural Resources, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA; E-Mail:
| | - Kyle D. Hoagland
- School of Natural Resources, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA; E-Mail:
| | - David Cassada
- Nebraska Water Center and School of Natural Resources, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA; E-Mail:
| | - Daniel D. Snow
- Nebraska Water Center and School of Natural Resources, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA; E-Mail:
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed: E-Mail: ; Tel.: +1-402-472-7539; Fax: +1-402-472-9599
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McCarron P, Logan AC, Giddings SD, Quilliam MA. Analysis of β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) in spirulina-containing supplements by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. AQUATIC BIOSYSTEMS 2014; 10:5. [PMID: 25120905 PMCID: PMC4130116 DOI: 10.1186/2046-9063-10-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2014] [Accepted: 08/04/2014] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Over the last decade the amino acid beta-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) has come under intense scrutiny. International laboratory and epidemiological research continues to support the hypothesis that environmental exposure to BMAA (e.g., through dietary practices, water supply) can promote the risk of various neurodegenerative diseases. A wide variety of cyanobacteria spp. have previously been reported to produce BMAA, with production levels dependent upon species, strain and environmental conditions. Since spirulina (Arthrospira spp.) is a member of the cyanobacteria phylum frequently consumed via dietary supplements, the presence of BMAA in such products may have public health implications. In the current work, we have analyzed ten spirulina-containing samples for the presence of BMAA; six pure spirulina samples from two separate raw materials suppliers, and four commercially-available multi-ingredient products containing 1.45 g of spirulina per 8.5 g serving. Because of controversy surrounding the measurement of BMAA, we have used two complementary liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) methods: one based on reversed phase LC (RPLC) with derivatization and the other based on hydrophilic interaction LC (HILIC). Potential matrix effects were corrected for by internal standardization using a stable isotope labeled BMAA standard. BMAA was not detected at low limits of detection (80 ng/g dry weight) in any of these product samples. Although these results are reassuring, BMAA analyses should be conducted on a wider sample selection and, perhaps, as part of ongoing spirulina production quality control testing and specifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pearse McCarron
- National Research Council Canada, Measurement Science and Standards, Biotoxin Metrology, 1411 Oxford St, Halifax, NS B3H 3Z1, Canada
| | - Alan C Logan
- CAMNR, 23679 Calabasas Road Suite 542, Calabasas, CA 91302, USA
| | - Sabrina D Giddings
- National Research Council Canada, Measurement Science and Standards, Biotoxin Metrology, 1411 Oxford St, Halifax, NS B3H 3Z1, Canada
| | - Michael A Quilliam
- National Research Council Canada, Measurement Science and Standards, Biotoxin Metrology, 1411 Oxford St, Halifax, NS B3H 3Z1, Canada
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Methods for simultaneous detection of the cyanotoxins BMAA, DABA, and anatoxin-a in environmental samples. Toxicon 2013; 76:316-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2013.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2012] [Revised: 10/02/2013] [Accepted: 10/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Merel S, Walker D, Chicana R, Snyder S, Baurès E, Thomas O. State of knowledge and concerns on cyanobacterial blooms and cyanotoxins. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2013; 59:303-27. [PMID: 23892224 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2013.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 480] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2012] [Revised: 06/12/2013] [Accepted: 06/18/2013] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Cyanobacteria are ubiquitous microorganisms considered as important contributors to the formation of Earth's atmosphere and nitrogen fixation. However, they are also frequently associated with toxic blooms. Indeed, the wide range of hepatotoxins, neurotoxins and dermatotoxins synthesized by these bacteria is a growing environmental and public health concern. This paper provides a state of the art on the occurrence and management of harmful cyanobacterial blooms in surface and drinking water, including economic impacts and research needs. Cyanobacterial blooms usually occur according to a combination of environmental factors e.g., nutrient concentration, water temperature, light intensity, salinity, water movement, stagnation and residence time, as well as several other variables. These environmental variables, in turn, have promoted the evolution and biosynthesis of strain-specific, gene-controlled metabolites (cyanotoxins) that are often harmful to aquatic and terrestrial life, including humans. Cyanotoxins are primarily produced intracellularly during the exponential growth phase. Release of toxins into water can occur during cell death or senescence but can also be due to evolutionary-derived or environmentally-mediated circumstances such as allelopathy or relatively sudden nutrient limitation. Consequently, when cyanobacterial blooms occur in drinking water resources, treatment has to remove both cyanobacteria (avoiding cell lysis and subsequent toxin release) and aqueous cyanotoxins previously released. Cells are usually removed with limited lysis by physical processes such as clarification or membrane filtration. However, aqueous toxins are usually removed by both physical retention, through adsorption on activated carbon or reverse osmosis, and chemical oxidation, through ozonation or chlorination. While the efficient oxidation of the more common cyanotoxins (microcystin, cylindrospermopsin, anatoxin and saxitoxin) has been extensively reported, the chemical and toxicological characterization of their by-products requires further investigation. In addition, future research should also investigate the removal of poorly considered cyanotoxins (β-methylamino-alanine, lyngbyatoxin or aplysiatoxin) as well as the economic impact of blooms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvain Merel
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Arizona, 1133 James E. Rogers Way, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA.
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Trojsi F, Monsurrò MR, Tedeschi G. Exposure to environmental toxicants and pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: state of the art and research perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:15286-311. [PMID: 23887652 PMCID: PMC3759860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms140815286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2013] [Revised: 07/05/2013] [Accepted: 07/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a broad scientific consensus that amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fatal neuromuscular disease, is caused by gene--environment interactions. In fact, given that only about 10% of all ALS diagnosis has a genetic basis, gene-environmental interaction may give account for the remaining percentage of cases. However, relatively little attention has been paid to environmental and lifestyle factors that may trigger the cascade of motor neuron degeneration leading to ALS, although exposure to chemicals--including lead and pesticides-agricultural environments, smoking, intense physical activity, trauma and electromagnetic fields have been associated with an increased risk of ALS. This review provides an overview of our current knowledge of potential toxic etiologies of ALS with emphasis on the role of cyanobacteria, heavy metals and pesticides as potential risk factors for developing ALS. We will summarize the most recent evidence from epidemiological studies and experimental findings from animal and cellular models, revealing that potential causal links between environmental toxicants and ALS pathogenesis have not been fully ascertained, thus justifying the need for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Trojsi
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Aging Sciences, Second University of Naples, Piazza Miraglia 2, Naples 80138, Italy; E-Mails: (M.R.M.); (G.T.)
- Neurological Institute for Diagnosis and Care “Hermitage Capodimonte”, Via Cupa delle Tozzole 2, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Monsurrò
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Aging Sciences, Second University of Naples, Piazza Miraglia 2, Naples 80138, Italy; E-Mails: (M.R.M.); (G.T.)
- Neurological Institute for Diagnosis and Care “Hermitage Capodimonte”, Via Cupa delle Tozzole 2, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Gioacchino Tedeschi
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Aging Sciences, Second University of Naples, Piazza Miraglia 2, Naples 80138, Italy; E-Mails: (M.R.M.); (G.T.)
- Neurological Institute for Diagnosis and Care “Hermitage Capodimonte”, Via Cupa delle Tozzole 2, Naples 80131, Italy
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Jiang L, Johnston E, Aberg KM, Nilsson U, Ilag LL. Strategy for quantifying trace levels of BMAA in cyanobacteria by LC/MS/MS. Anal Bioanal Chem 2012. [PMID: 23180086 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-012-6550-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The cyanobacterial neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) is an amino acid that is putatively associated with the pathology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/Parkinsonism-dementia complex (ALS-PDC) disease. It raises serious health risk concerns since cyanobacteria are ubiquitous thus making human exposure almost inevitable. The identification and quantification of BMAA in cyanobacteria is challenging because it is present only in trace amounts and occurs alongside structurally similar compounds such as BMAA isomers. This work describes an enhanced liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry platform that can distinguish BMAA from its isomers β-amino-N-methyl-alanine, N-(2-aminoethyl) glycine (AEG), and 2,4-diaminobutyric acid, thus ensuring confident identification of BMAA. The method's sensitivity was improved fourfold by a post-column addition of acetonitrile. The instrument and method limits of detection were shown to be 4.2 fmol/injection (or 0.5 pg/one column) and 0.1 μg/g dry weight of cyanobacteria, respectively. The quantification method uses synthesized deuterated BMAA as an internal standard and exhibits good linearity, accuracy, and precision. Matrix effects were also investigated, revealing an ion enhancement of around 18 %. A lab-cultured cyanobacterial sample (Leptolyngbya PCC73110) was analyzed and shown to contain about 0.73 μg/g dry weight BMAA. The isomer AEG, whose chromatographic properties closely resemble those of BMAA, was also detected. These results highlight the importance of distinguishing BMAA from its isomers for reliable identification as well as providing a sensitive and accurate quantification method for measuring trace levels of BMAA in cyanobacterial samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liying Jiang
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.
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49
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Chiu AS, Gehringer MM, Braidy N, Guillemin GJ, Welch JH, Neilan BA. Excitotoxic potential of the cyanotoxin β-methyl-amino-l-alanine (BMAA) in primary human neurons. Toxicon 2012; 60:1159-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2012.07.169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2012] [Revised: 07/27/2012] [Accepted: 07/31/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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50
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Goto JJ, Koenig JH, Ikeda K. The physiological effect of ingested β-N-methylamino-L-alanine on a glutamatergic synapse in an in vivo preparation. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2012; 156:171-7. [PMID: 22841708 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2012.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2012] [Revised: 07/09/2012] [Accepted: 07/13/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The neurotoxin, BMAA (β-N-methylamino-L-alanine), may be a risk factor for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson's (PD) and Alzheimer's (AD) disease. In vivo experiments have demonstrated that BMAA can cause a number of motor dysfunctions if ingested or injected, and in vitro experiments show that this toxin binds to glutamate receptors with deleterious results. Also, BMAA exists in the human food chain worldwide, and has been detected in the brains of ALS and AD patients. This paper offers the first demonstration by intracellular recording of the effect of ingested BMAA on the postsynaptic response of an identified glutamatergic cell in a living, undissected organism (Drosophila melanogaster), and correlates these observations with the specific motor dysfunctions that result from ingestion. The results suggest that BMAA acts as a glutamate agonist, causing NMDA receptor channels to remain open for prolonged periods of time, thereby damaging the cell by excitotoxicity. The effect on the postsynaptic response became apparent days before the function of the postsynaptic cell (wing beat) became affected. Severely depolarized cells were able to fully recover with the removal of BMAA from the food source, suggesting that blocking BMAA binding in the brain might be a good treatment strategy.
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MESH Headings
- 6-Cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione/pharmacology
- Amino Acids, Diamino/pharmacology
- Animals
- Behavior, Animal/drug effects
- Behavior, Animal/physiology
- Drosophila melanogaster/drug effects
- Drosophila melanogaster/physiology
- Excitatory Amino Acid Antagonists/pharmacology
- Female
- Motor Neurons/drug effects
- Motor Neurons/physiology
- Muscle Fibers, Skeletal/physiology
- Receptors, AMPA/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptors, Glutamate/drug effects
- Receptors, Glutamate/physiology
- Receptors, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptors, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate/physiology
- Synapses/drug effects
- Synapses/physiology
- Synaptic Potentials/drug effects
- Synaptic Potentials/physiology
- Wings, Animal/drug effects
- Wings, Animal/physiology
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Affiliation(s)
- Joy J Goto
- Department of Chemistry, California State University, Fresno, 2555 East San Ramon Ave., MS SB 70, Fresno, CA 93740, USA.
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