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Nilsson EE, McBirney M, De Santos S, King SE, Beck D, Greeley C, Holder LB, Skinner MK. Multiple generation distinct toxicant exposures induce epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of enhanced pathology and obesity. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2023; 9:dvad006. [PMID: 38162685 PMCID: PMC10756336 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvad006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Three successive multiple generations of rats were exposed to different toxicants and then bred to the transgenerational F5 generation to assess the impacts of multiple generation different exposures. The current study examines the actions of the agricultural fungicide vinclozolin on the F0 generation, followed by jet fuel hydrocarbon mixture exposure of the F1 generation, and then pesticide dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane on the F2 generation gestating females. The subsequent F3 and F4 generations and F5 transgenerational generation were obtained and F1-F5 generations examined for male sperm epigenetic alterations and pathology in males and females. Significant impacts on the male sperm differential DNA methylation regions were observed. The F3-F5 generations were similar in ∼50% of the DNA methylation regions. The pathology of each generation was assessed in the testis, ovary, kidney, and prostate, as well as the presence of obesity and tumors. The pathology used a newly developed Deep Learning, artificial intelligence-based histopathology analysis. Observations demonstrated compounded disease impacts in obesity and metabolic parameters, but other pathologies plateaued with smaller increases at the F5 transgenerational generation. Observations demonstrate that multiple generational exposures, which occur in human populations, appear to increase epigenetic impacts and disease susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric E Nilsson
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA
| | - Margaux McBirney
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA
| | - Sarah De Santos
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA
| | - Stephanie E King
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA
| | - Daniel Beck
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA
| | - Colin Greeley
- School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
| | - Lawrence B Holder
- School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
| | - Michael K Skinner
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA
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Graziosi A, Sita G, Corrieri C, Angelini S, d’Emmanuele di Villa Bianca R, Mitidieri E, Sorrentino R, Hrelia P, Morroni F. Effects of Subtoxic Concentrations of Atrazine, Cypermethrin, and Vinclozolin on microRNA-Mediated PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling in SH-SY5Y Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314538. [PMID: 36498866 PMCID: PMC9737829 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are different natural and synthetic chemicals that may interfere with several mechanisms of the endocrine system producing adverse developmental, metabolic, reproductive, and neurological effects in both human beings and wildlife. Among pesticides, numerous chemicals have been identified as EDCs. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can regulate gene expression, making fine adjustments in mRNA abundance and regulating proteostasis. We hypothesized that exposure to low doses of atrazine, cypermethrin, and vinclozolin may lead to effects on miRNA expression in SH-SY5Y cells. In particular, the exposure of SH-SY5Y cells to subtoxic concentrations of vinclozolin is able to downregulate miR-29b-3p expression leading to the increase in the related gene expression of ADAM12 and CDK6, which may promote a pro-oncogenic response through the activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway and counteracting p53 activity. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of EDCs could provide important insight into their role in human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnese Graziosi
- Department of Pharmacy and BioTechnology—FaBiT, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Giulia Sita
- Department of Pharmacy and BioTechnology—FaBiT, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Camilla Corrieri
- Department of Pharmacy and BioTechnology—FaBiT, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Sabrina Angelini
- Department of Pharmacy and BioTechnology—FaBiT, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Emma Mitidieri
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Study of Naples—Federico II, via Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaella Sorrentino
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Study of Naples—Federico II, via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Patrizia Hrelia
- Department of Pharmacy and BioTechnology—FaBiT, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-051-209-1798
| | - Fabiana Morroni
- Department of Pharmacy and BioTechnology—FaBiT, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy
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Maddalon A, Masi M, Iulini M, Linciano P, Galbiati V, Marinovich M, Racchi M, Buoso E, Corsini E. Effects of endocrine active contaminating pesticides on RACK1 expression and immunological consequences in THP-1 cells. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2022; 95:103971. [PMID: 36084878 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2022.103971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
We have previously demonstrated that RACK1, which expression is under steroid hormone control, plays an important role in the activation of immune cells and its expression can be useful to evaluate the immunotoxic profile of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Hence, we investigated the effects of three contaminating and persistent pesticides: the fungicide vinclozolin (VIN), the herbicide atrazine (ATR) and the insecticide cypermethrin (CYP) on RACK1 expression and on innate immune response. VIN resulted in modest alteration of RACK1 while ATR and CYP reduced in a dose dependent manner RACK1 expression, ultimately leading to the decrease in lipopolysaccharide-induced IL-8 and TNF-α release and CD86 and CD54 surface marker expression. Moreover, our data indicate that, after exposure to EDCs, alterations of RACK1 expression can also occur with mechanisms not directly mediated by an interaction with a nuclear or membrane steroid receptors. Therefore, RACK1 could represent a useful EDCs screening tool to evaluate their immunotoxic potential and to dissect their mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ambra Maddalon
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Mirco Masi
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12/14, 27100 Pavia, Italy; Scuola Universitaria Superiore IUSS, Piazza della Vittoria 15, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Martina Iulini
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Pasquale Linciano
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12/14, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Valentina Galbiati
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Marina Marinovich
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Marco Racchi
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12/14, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Erica Buoso
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12/14, 27100 Pavia, Italy; Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
| | - Emanuela Corsini
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milano, Italy
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The Molecular Quality and Mitochondrial Activity of Porcine Cumulus-Oocyte Complexes Are Affected by Their Exposure to Three Endocrine-Active Compounds under 3D In Vitro Maturation Conditions. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094572. [PMID: 35562963 PMCID: PMC9100547 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Thus far, the potential short- and long-term detrimental effects of a variety of environmental chemicals designated as endocrine-active compounds (EACs) have been found to interfere with histo- and anatomo-physiological functions of the reproductive system in humans and wildlife species. For those reasons, this study sought to examine whether selected EACs, which encompass the fungicide vinclozolin (Vnz), the androgenic anabolic steroid nandrolone (Ndn) and the immunosuppressant cyclosporin A (CsA), affect the developmental competence and molecular quality (MQ) of porcine cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) subjected to in vitro maturation (IVM) under 3D culture conditions. The COCs underwent 3D-IVM in the presence of Vnz, Ndn or CsA for 48 h. To explore whether the selected EACs induce internucleosomal DNA fragmentation in cumulus cells (CCs), TUNEL-assisted detection of late apoptotic cells was performed. Additionally, for the detailed evaluation of pro- and antiapoptotic pathways in COCs, apoptosis proteome profiler arrays were used. To determine changes in intracellular metabolism in COCs, comprehensive assessments of mitochondrial ultrastructure and activity were carried out. Moreover, the relative abundances (RAs) of mRNAs transcribed from genes that are involved in scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as SIRT3 and FOXO3, and intramitochondrial bioenergetic balance, such as ATP synthase subunit (ATP5A1), were ascertained. Finally, to investigate the extent of progression of oocyte maturation, the intraooplasmic levels of cAMP and the RAs of mRNA transcripts encoding regulatory and biocatalytic subunits of a heterodimeric meiosis-promoting factor, termed cyclin B1 (CCNB1) and cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDC2), were also estimated. The obtained results provide, for the first time, strong evidence that both Vnz and Ndn decrease the developmental competence of oocytes and stimulate apoptosis processes in CCs. The present study is also the first to highlight that Vnz accelerates the maturation process in immature oocytes due to both increased ROS production and the augmented RA of the CCNB1 gene. Furthermore, Vnz was proven to trigger proapoptotic events in CCs by prompting the activity of the FOXO3 transcription factor, which regulates the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. In turn, Ndn was shown to inhibit oocyte maturation by inducing molecular events that ultimately lead to an increase in the intraooplasmic cAMP concentration. However, due to the simultaneous enhancement of the expression of TNF-β and HSP27 proteins in CCs, Ndn might be responsible for the onset of their neoplastic transformation. Finally, our current investigation is the first to clearly demonstrate that although CsA did not interfere with the nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation of oocytes, by inducing mitophagy in CCs, it disrupted oocyte metabolism, consequently attenuating the parameters related to the MQ of COCs. Summing up, Vnz, Ndn and CsA reduced not only the processes of growth and IVM but also the MQ of porcine COCs, which might make them unsuitable for assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) such as in vitro fertilization by either gamete co-incubation or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and cloning by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT).
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Yawer A, Sychrová E, Raška J, Babica P, Sovadinová I. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals affect sertoli TM4 cell functionality through dysregulation of gap junctional intercellular communication in vitro. Food Chem Toxicol 2022; 164:113004. [PMID: 35413382 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2022.113004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The frequencies of adverse outcomes associated with male reproductive health, including infertility and testicular cancer, are increasing. These adverse trends are partially attributed to increased exposure to environmental agents such as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). This study addresses effects on EDCs on adjacent prepubertal Sertoli TM4 cells, specifically on 1) testicular gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC), one of the hallmarks of non-genotoxic carcinogenicity, 2) GJIC building blocks connexins (Cx), and 3) mitogen-activated protein kinases MAPKs. We selected eight representatives of EDCs: bisphenol A and organochlorine chemicals such as pesticides dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, lindane, methoxychlor, and vinclozolin, industrial chemical 2,2',4,4',5,5'-hexachlorobiphenyl, and components of personal care products, triclocarban and triclosan. EDCs rapidly dysregulated GJIC in Sertoli TM4 cells mainly via MAPK p38 and/or Erk1/2/pathways by the intermediate hyper- or de-phosphorylation of Cx43 (Ser368, Ser282) and translocalization of Cx43 from the plasma membrane, suggesting disturbed intracellular trafficking of Cx43 protein. Surprisingly, EDCs did not rapidly activate MAPK Erk1/2 or p38; on the contrary, TCC and TCS decreased their activity (phosphorylation). Our results indicate that EDCs might disrupt testicular homeostasis and development via testicular GJIC, junctional and non-junctional functions of Cx43 and MAPK-signalling pathways in Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Affiefa Yawer
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Eliška Sychrová
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Jan Raška
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Pavel Babica
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Iva Sovadinová
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic.
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Ramirez-Hincapie S, Giri V, Keller J, Kamp H, Haake V, Richling E, van Ravenzwaay B. Influence of pregnancy and non-fasting conditions on the plasma metabolome in a rat prenatal toxicity study. Arch Toxicol 2021; 95:2941-2959. [PMID: 34327559 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-021-03105-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The current parameters for determining maternal toxicity (e.g. clinical signs, food consumption, body weight development) lack specificity and may underestimate the extent of effects of test compounds on the dams. Previous reports have highlighted the use of plasma metabolomics for an improved and mechanism-based identification of maternal toxicity. To establish metabolite profiles of healthy pregnancies and evaluate the influence of food consumption as a confounding factor, metabolite profiling of rat plasma was performed by gas- and liquid-chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry techniques. Metabolite changes in response to pregnancy, food consumption prior to blood sampling (non-fasting) as well as the interaction of both conditions were studied. In dams, both conditions, non-fasting and pregnancy, had a marked influence on the plasma metabolome and resulted in distinct individual patterns of changed metabolites. Non-fasting was characterized by increased plasma concentrations of amino acids and diet related compounds and lower levels of ketone bodies. The metabolic profile of pregnant rats was characterized by lower amino acids and glucose levels and higher concentrations of plasma fatty acids, triglycerides and hormones, capturing the normal biochemical changes undergone during pregnancy. The establishment of metabolic profiles of pregnant non-fasted rats serves as a baseline to create metabolic fingerprints for prenatal and maternal toxicity studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Ramirez-Hincapie
- Experimental Toxicology and Ecology, BASF SE, 67056, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - V Giri
- Experimental Toxicology and Ecology, BASF SE, 67056, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - J Keller
- Experimental Toxicology and Ecology, BASF SE, 67056, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - H Kamp
- Experimental Toxicology and Ecology, BASF SE, 67056, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - V Haake
- BASF Metabolome Solution GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | - E Richling
- Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Department of Chemistry, University of Kaiserslautern, Kaiserslautern, Germany
| | - B van Ravenzwaay
- Experimental Toxicology and Ecology, BASF SE, 67056, Ludwigshafen, Germany.
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Mesnil M, Defamie N, Naus C, Sarrouilhe D. Brain Disorders and Chemical Pollutants: A Gap Junction Link? Biomolecules 2020; 11:51. [PMID: 33396565 PMCID: PMC7824109 DOI: 10.3390/biom11010051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence of brain pathologies has increased during last decades. Better diagnosis (autism spectrum disorders) and longer life expectancy (Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease) partly explain this increase, while emerging data suggest pollutant exposures as a possible but still underestimated cause of major brain disorders. Taking into account that the brain parenchyma is rich in gap junctions and that most pollutants inhibit their function; brain disorders might be the consequence of gap-junctional alterations due to long-term exposures to pollutants. In this article, this hypothesis is addressed through three complementary aspects: (1) the gap-junctional organization and connexin expression in brain parenchyma and their function; (2) the effect of major pollutants (pesticides, bisphenol A, phthalates, heavy metals, airborne particles, etc.) on gap-junctional and connexin functions; (3) a description of the major brain disorders categorized as neurodevelopmental (autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorders, epilepsy), neurobehavioral (migraines, major depressive disorders), neurodegenerative (Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases) and cancers (glioma), in which both connexin dysfunction and pollutant involvement have been described. Based on these different aspects, the possible involvement of pollutant-inhibited gap junctions in brain disorders is discussed for prenatal and postnatal exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Mesnil
- Laboratoire STIM, ERL7003 CNRS-Université de Poitiers, 1 rue G. Bonnet–TSA 51 106, 86073 Poitiers, France; (M.M.); (N.D.)
| | - Norah Defamie
- Laboratoire STIM, ERL7003 CNRS-Université de Poitiers, 1 rue G. Bonnet–TSA 51 106, 86073 Poitiers, France; (M.M.); (N.D.)
| | - Christian Naus
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Cellular & Physiological Sciences, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T1Z3, Canada;
| | - Denis Sarrouilhe
- Laboratoire de Physiologie Humaine, Faculté de Médecine et Pharmacie, 6 rue de La Milétrie, bât D1, TSA 51115, 86073 Poitiers, France
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The antiandrogenic vinclozolin induces differentiation delay of germ cells and changes in energy metabolism in 3D cultures of fetal ovaries. Sci Rep 2020; 10:18036. [PMID: 33093579 PMCID: PMC7582921 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-75116-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Vinclozolin is a pesticide with antiandrogenic activity as an endocrine disruptor compound. Its effects upon the progression of primordial follicles were assessed in cultures of mouse fetal ovaries from the onset of meiotic differentiation of germ cells (13.5 days post coitum) and from both in vivo exposed mice and in vitro exposed ovaries. Exposure of ovaries to vinclozolin—at in vitro dosages ranging from 10 to 200 μM and in 3D ex vivo culture following in vivo exposure to 50 mg/kg bw/day—showed delays in meiocyte differentiation and in follicle growth, even at the lowest in vitro dose exposure. Immunofluorescent analysis showed the presence of the proteins MSY2 and NOBOX in the primary follicles but no difference in the level of protein signals or in the number of follicles in relation to treatment. However, assessing the cytological differentiation of germ cells by detecting the synaptonemal complex protein SYCP3, the exposure to vinclozolin delayed meiotic differentiation from both in vitro- and in vivo-exposed ovaries. These effects were concomitant with changes in the energy metabolism, detected as a relative increase of glycolytic metabolism in live-cell metabolic assays in exposed ovaries.
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Yawer A, Sychrová E, Labohá P, Raška J, Jambor T, Babica P, Sovadinová I. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals rapidly affect intercellular signaling in Leydig cells. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2020; 404:115177. [PMID: 32739526 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2020.115177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
A decline in male fertility possibly caused by environmental contaminants, namely endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), is a topic of public concern and scientific interest. This study addresses a specific role of testicular gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) between adjacent prepubertal Leydig cells in endocrine disruption and male reproductive toxicity. Organochlorine pesticides (lindane, methoxychlor, DDT), industrial chemicals (PCB153, bisphenol A, nonylphenol and octylphenol) as well as personal care product components (triclosan, triclocarban) rapidly dysregulated GJIC in murine Leydig TM3 cells. The selected GJIC-inhibiting EDCs (methoxychlor, triclosan, triclocarban, lindane, DDT) caused the immediate GJIC disruption by the relocation of gap junctional protein connexin 43 (Cx43) from the plasma membrane and the alternation of Cx43 phosphorylation pattern (Ser368, Ser279, Ser282) of its full-length and two N-truncated isoforms. After more prolonged exposure (24 h), EDCs decreased steady-state levels of full-length Cx43 protein and its two N-truncated isoforms, and eventually (triclosan, triclocarban) also tight junction protein Tjp-1. The disturbance of GJIC was accompanied by altered activity of mitogen-activated protein kinases MAPK-Erk1/2 and MAPK-p38, and a decrease in stimulated progesterone production. Our results indicate that EDCs might disrupt testicular homeostasis and development via disruption of testicular GJIC, a dysregulation of junctional and non-junctional functions of Cx43, activation of MAPKs, and disruption of an early stage of steroidogenesis in prepubertal Leydig cells. These critical disturbances of Leydig cell development and functions during a prepubertal period might be contributing to impaired male reproduction health later on.
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Affiliation(s)
- Affiefa Yawer
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, building A29, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Eliška Sychrová
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, building A29, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Labohá
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, building A29, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Raška
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, building A29, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Jambor
- BioFood Centre, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovac Republic
| | - Pavel Babica
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, building A29, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Iva Sovadinová
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, building A29, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic.
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Aquilino M, Sánchez-Argüello P, Novo M, Martínez-Guitarte JL. Effects on tadpole snail gene expression after exposure to vinclozolin. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2019; 170:568-577. [PMID: 30576892 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2018.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The fungicide vinclozolin (Vz) is an endocrine disruptor with known anti-androgenic activity in vertebrates. However, there is a lack of information about the Vz mode of action in invertebrates, although some studies have shown that this compound can produce alterations in different species. Transcriptional activity was analyzed in the freshwater snail Physella acuta in order to elucidate putative cellular processes altered by this chemical during a response. In order to identify potential molecular biomarkers, a de novo transcriptome was generated for this species that constitutes a valuable source for future studies. This data, together with some already available data, permitted the identification of several genes related to detoxification mechanisms (Cyp2u1, Cyp3a7, Cyp4f22, GSTo1, GSTt2, and MRP1), stress response (Hsp20.4, Hsp17, Hsp16.6, and Cu,Zn-SOD), the hormonal system (Estrogen Receptor and Hsp90), apoptosis (Casp3), and copper homeostasis (ATOX1). Using quantitative Real-Time polymerase chain reaction, mRNA levels of these genes were examined in snails exposed to 20 or 200 µg/L Vz for 24 h. The results showed an overall weak response, with downregulation of Hsp20.4 and no statistically significant change for the other genes. These findings suggest that P. acuta can manage the concentrations of Vz found in the environment with no relevant activation of the pathways analyzed, although additional studies are needed for longer exposure times and including other metabolic pathways. The new genes described open the range of processes that can be studied at the molecular level in toxicity tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Aquilino
- Grupo de Biología y Toxicología Ambiental, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, UNED, Senda del Rey 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Paloma Sánchez-Argüello
- Laboratory for Ecotoxicology, Department of the Environment, INIA, Crta A Coruña km 7, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Novo
- Grupo de Biología y Toxicología Ambiental, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, UNED, Senda del Rey 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution, Biological Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, José Antonio Nóvais sn, Madrid, Spain
| | - José-Luis Martínez-Guitarte
- Grupo de Biología y Toxicología Ambiental, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, UNED, Senda del Rey 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Luo Z, Tu Y, Li H, Qiu B, Liu Y, Yang Z. Endocrine-disrupting compounds in the Xiangjiang River of China: Spatio-temporal distribution, source apportionment, and risk assessment. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2019; 167:476-484. [PMID: 30368141 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2018.10.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2018] [Revised: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) were seasonally investigated in the surface water of the Xiangjiang River (south China) in order to understand their spatio-temporal distribution, source apportionment, and ecological risks. The occurrence of 21 EDCs were determined with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry in the water samples collected along the river over four seasons, and the results were statistically analyzed. The concentrations of progestagens, androgens, estrogens ranged from not detected (ND) to 98.3 ng L-1; while the concentrations of alkylphenols ranged from 0.8 to 3.1 × 103 ng L-1; and that of caffeine ranged from 0.1 to 49.8 ng L-1. The detection frequencies of bisphenol A, 4-tert-octylphenol, 4-n-nonylphenol, estrone, and 17β-estradiol were 95-100% during the four sampling campaigns. The seasonal and spatial variation trend of EDCs in the Xiangjiang River was noticeable. The concentration of EDCs in Yueyang section (downstream) was the highest in winter, while the concentration in Yongzhou (upstream) section was the lowest in spring. The concentration of EDCs in the Xiangjiang River was significantly correlated with the levels of the total organic carbon, water temperature, and dissolved oxygen. Source analysis indicated that untreated sewage was the major source of EDCs. Furthermore, the potential risks of EDCs in the surface water to aquatic organisms were assessed with the risk quotient method (European Commission, 2003), and the results indicated the highest ecological risk of 17β-estradiol in the Xiangjiang River.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhoufei Luo
- Center for Environment and Water Resources, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, PR China.
| | - Yi Tu
- Center for Environment and Water Resources, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, PR China.
| | - Haipu Li
- Center for Environment and Water Resources, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, PR China.
| | - Bo Qiu
- Center for Environment and Water Resources, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, PR China.
| | - Yang Liu
- Center for Environment and Water Resources, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, PR China.
| | - Zhaoguang Yang
- Center for Environment and Water Resources, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, PR China.
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12
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Brandhorst TT, Klein BS. Uncertainty surrounding the mechanism and safety of the post-harvest fungicide fludioxonil. Food Chem Toxicol 2018; 123:561-565. [PMID: 30458269 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2018.11.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Revised: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Fludioxonil is a phenylpyrrole pesticide that is applied to fruit and vegetable crops post-harvest to minimize losses to mold, both during transport and at point of sale. Its effectiveness is reflected in the dramatic increase in its production/usage since its introduction in 1994, an increase that has peaked in recent years as it became licenced for use abroad. Recently, doubts as to the nature of its mechanism of action have been raised. Given that the pesticide has long been known to induce stress intermediates in target and non-target organisms alike, the lack of a firmly established mechanism might be cause for concern. Troubling reports further delineate a capacity to disrupt hepatic, endocrine and neurological systems, indicating that fludioxonil may represent a health threat to consumers. In the absence of a clear, safe mechanism of action, fludioxonil should be re-evaluated for its potential to impact human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Tristan Brandhorst
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53792, USA.
| | - Bruce S Klein
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53792, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53792, USA; Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53792, USA
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13
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Piña B, Raldúa D, Barata C, Portugal J, Navarro-Martín L, Martínez R, Fuertes I, Casado M. Functional Data Analysis: Omics for Environmental Risk Assessment. COMPREHENSIVE ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.coac.2018.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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14
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Duda M, Wartalski K, Tabarowski Z, Gorczyca G. The Role of Androgens in Ovarian Follicular Development: From Fertility to Ovarian Cancer. Theriogenology 2017. [DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.68881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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15
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Marin-Kuan M, Fussell KC, Riederer N, Latado H, Serrant P, Mollergues J, Coulet M, Schilter B. Differentiating true androgen receptor inhibition from cytotoxicity-mediated reduction of reporter-gene transactivation in-vitro. Toxicol In Vitro 2017; 45:359-365. [PMID: 28377212 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2017.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Revised: 03/17/2017] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
In vitro effect-based reporter assays are applied as biodetection tools designed to address nuclear receptor mediated-modulation. While such assays detect receptor modulating potential, cell viability needs to be addressed, preferably in the same well. Some assays circumvent this by co-transfecting a second constitutively-expressed marker gene or by multiplexing a cytotoxicity assay. Some assays, such as the CALUX®, lack this feature. The cytotoxic effects of unknown substances can confound in vitro assays, making the interpretation of results difficult and uncertain, particularly when assessing antagonistic activity. It's necessary to determine whether the cause of the reporter signal decrease is an antagonistic effect or a non-specific cytotoxic effect. To remedy this, we assessed the suitability of multiplexing a cell viability assay within the CALUX® transcriptional activation test for anti-androgenicity. Tests of both well-characterized anti-androgens and cytotoxic compounds demonstrated the suitability of this approach for discerning between the molecular mechanisms of action without altering the nuclear receptor assay; though some compounds were both cytotoxic and anti-androgenic. The optimized multiplexed assay was then applied to an uncharacterized set of polycyclic aromatic compounds. These results better characterized the mode of action and the classification of effects. Overall, the multiplexed protocol added value to CALUX test performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maricel Marin-Kuan
- Chemical Food Safety, Nestlé Research Centre, P.O. Box 44, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland.
| | - Karma C Fussell
- Chemical Food Safety, Nestlé Research Centre, P.O. Box 44, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Riederer
- Chemical Food Safety, Nestlé Research Centre, P.O. Box 44, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland
| | - Helia Latado
- Chemical Food Safety, Nestlé Research Centre, P.O. Box 44, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Serrant
- Chemical Food Safety, Nestlé Research Centre, P.O. Box 44, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland
| | - Julie Mollergues
- Chemical Food Safety, Nestlé Research Centre, P.O. Box 44, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland
| | - Myriam Coulet
- Chemical Food Safety, Nestlé Research Centre, P.O. Box 44, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland
| | - Benoit Schilter
- Chemical Food Safety, Nestlé Research Centre, P.O. Box 44, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland
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16
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Marcoccia D, Pellegrini M, Fiocchetti M, Lorenzetti S, Marino M. Food components and contaminants as (anti)androgenic molecules. GENES AND NUTRITION 2017; 12:6. [PMID: 28239427 PMCID: PMC5312591 DOI: 10.1186/s12263-017-0555-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Androgens, the main male sex steroids, are the critical factors responsible for the development of the male phenotype during embryogenesis and for the achievement of sexual maturation and puberty. In adulthood, androgens remain essential for the maintenance of male reproductive function and behavior. Androgens, acting through the androgen receptor (AR), regulate male sexual differentiation during development, sperm production beginning from puberty, and maintenance of prostate homeostasis. Several substances present in the environment, now classified as endocrine disruptors (EDCs), strongly interfere with androgen actions in reproductive and non-reproductive tissues. EDCs are a heterogeneous group of xenobiotics which include synthetic chemicals used as industrial solvents/lubricants, plasticizers, additives, agrochemicals, pharmaceutical agents, and polyphenols of plant origin. These compounds are even present in the food as components (polyphenols) or food/water contaminants (pesticides, plasticizers used as food packaging) rendering the diet as the main route of exposure to EDCs for humans. Although huge amount of literature reports the (anti)estrogenic effects of different EDCs, relatively scarce information is available on the (anti)androgenic effects of EDCs. Here, the effects and mechanism of action of phytochemicals and pesticides and plasticizers as possible modulators of AR activities will be reviewed taking into account that insight derived from principles of endocrinology are required to estimate EDC consequences on endocrine deregulation and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Marcoccia
- Dpt. of Food Safety and Veterinary Public Health, Food and Veterinary Toxicology Unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanità - ISS, Viale Regina Elena 299, I-00161 Rome, Italy.,Present address: Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia-Romagna, via A. Bianchi 9, 25124 Brescia, Italy
| | - Marco Pellegrini
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, I-00146 Rome, Italy.,Present address: Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi, 58/b, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Marco Fiocchetti
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, I-00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Lorenzetti
- Dpt. of Food Safety and Veterinary Public Health, Food and Veterinary Toxicology Unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanità - ISS, Viale Regina Elena 299, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Marino
- Department of Science, University Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, I-00146 Rome, Italy
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17
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Sun L, Peng T, Liu F, Ren L, Peng Z, Ji G, Zhou Y, Fu Z. Transcriptional responses in male Japanese medaka exposed to antiandrogens and antiandrogen/androgen mixtures. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2016; 31:1591-1599. [PMID: 26098908 DOI: 10.1002/tox.22163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2015] [Revised: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/07/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of androgenic endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in water is thought to be linked to deviation from normal male developmental and reproductive functions in exposed aquatic organisms. Because aquatic environments represent a chemically complex medium, the combined effects of androgenic EDCs require urgent attention. In the present study, the effects of two model androgen receptor (AR) antagonists, flutamide (FLU), and vinclozolin (VIN), were first determined individually in male Japanese medaka using the transcriptional response for genes associated with the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. The fish were further exposed to binary mixtures of VIN and 17β-trenbolone (TRE, AR agonist) to confirm the theoretical opposing effects of the AR antagonist and agonist. The results showed that exposure to FLU or VIN alone induced very similar transcriptional responses, demonstrating that gene transcription analysis could be successfully employed in identifying the action of single chemicals. For example, both exposures increased the transcription of cyp17b but decreased that of cyp19b in the gonad, demonstrating the compensatory response for AR blockage. However, in the case of exposure to mixtures, although the joint antagonistic action of TRE and VIN affected the most genes, the transcription profiles after exposure to mixtures were not consistent with expectations based on the results for individual chemicals, such as hepatic vtg, and star or cyp19a in gonads. Therefore, the limitation of gene transcription analyses in exposures to mixtures, as well as the potential for the extrapolation of single chemicals, should be considered in future studies. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 31: 1591-1599, 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwei Sun
- College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310032, People's Republic of China
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310032, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Peng
- College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310032, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Liu
- College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310032, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Ren
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310032, People's Republic of China
| | - Zuhua Peng
- College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310032, People's Republic of China
| | - Guorong Ji
- College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310032, People's Republic of China
| | - Yinfang Zhou
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310032, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhengwei Fu
- College of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310032, People's Republic of China.
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18
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Flick B, Schneider S, Melching-Kollmuss S, Fussell KC, Gröters S, Buesen R, Strauss V, van Ravenzwaay B. Investigations of putative reproductive toxicity of low-dose exposures to vinclozolin in Wistar rats. Arch Toxicol 2016; 91:1941-1956. [PMID: 27612472 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-016-1811-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2016] [Accepted: 08/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The current investigation examines whether the fungicide vinclozolin, which has an anti-androgenic mode of action, is capable of disrupting endocrine homeostasis at very low doses. The data generated clarify whether a non-monotonic dose-response relationship exists to enhance the current debate about the regulation of endocrine disruptors. Moreover, it is part of a series of investigations assessing the dose-response relationship of single and combined administration of anti-androgenic substances. A pre-postnatal in vivo study design was chosen which was compliant with regulatory testing protocols. The test design was improved by additional endpoints addressing hormone levels, morphology and histopathological examinations. Doses were chosen to represent an effect level (20 mg/kg bw/d), the current NOAEL (4 mg/kg bw/d), and a dose close to the "ADI" (0.005 mg/kg bw/d) for the detection of a possible non-monotonic dose-response curve. Anti-androgenic changes were observable at the effect level but not at lower exposures. Nipple/areola counts appeared to be the most sensitive measure of effect, followed by male sex organ weights at sexual maturation, and finally gross and histopathological findings. The results indicate the absence of evidence for effects at low or very low dose levels. A non-monotonic dose-response relationship was not evident.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burkhard Flick
- Experimental Toxicology and Ecology, BASF SE, 67056, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Steffen Schneider
- Experimental Toxicology and Ecology, BASF SE, 67056, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | | | | | - Sibylle Gröters
- Experimental Toxicology and Ecology, BASF SE, 67056, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Roland Buesen
- Experimental Toxicology and Ecology, BASF SE, 67056, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Volker Strauss
- Experimental Toxicology and Ecology, BASF SE, 67056, Ludwigshafen, Germany
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19
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Babica P, Zurabian R, Kumar ER, Chopra R, Mianecki MJ, Park JS, Jaša L, Trosko JE, Upham BL. Methoxychlor and Vinclozolin Induce Rapid Changes in Intercellular and Intracellular Signaling in Liver Progenitor Cells. Toxicol Sci 2016; 153:174-85. [PMID: 27413106 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfw114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Methoxychlor (MXC) and vinclozolin (VIN) are well-recognized endocrine disrupting chemicals known to alter epigenetic regulations and transgenerational inheritance; however, non-endocrine disruption endpoints are also important. Thus, we determined the effects of MXC and VIN on the dysregulation of gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) and activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in WB-F344 rat liver epithelial cells. Both chemicals induced a rapid dysregulation of GJIC at non-cytotoxic doses, with 30 min EC50 values for GJIC inhibition being 10 µM for MXC and 126 µM for VIN. MXC inhibited GJIC for at least 24 h, while VIN effects were transient and GJIC recovered after 4 h. VIN induced rapid hyperphosphorylation and internalization of gap junction protein connexin43, and both chemicals also activated MAPK ERK1/2 and p38. Effects on GJIC were not prevented by MEK1/2 inhibitor, but by an inhibitor of phosphatidylcholine-specific phospholipase C (PC-PLC), resveratrol, and in the case of VIN, also, by a p38 inhibitor. Estrogen (ER) and androgen receptor (AR) modulators (estradiol, ICI 182,780, HPTE, testosterone, flutamide, VIN M2) did not attenuate MXC or VIN effects on GJIC. Our data also indicate that the effects were elicited by the parental compounds of MXC and VIN. Our study provides new evidence that MXC and VIN dysregulate GJIC via mechanisms involving rapid activation of PC-PLC occurring independently of ER- or AR-dependent genomic signaling. Such alterations of rapid intercellular and intracellular signaling events involved in regulations of gene expression, tissue development, function and homeostasis, could also contribute to transgenerational epigenetic effects of endocrine disruptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel Babica
- *Department of Experimental Phycology and Ecotoxicology, Institute of Botany, Brno 60200, Czech Republic; RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno 62500, Czech Republic; Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, and Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824;
| | - Rimma Zurabian
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, and Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824; Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, CdMx, 04510, Mexico
| | - Esha R Kumar
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, and Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824
| | - Rajus Chopra
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, and Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824
| | - Maxwell J Mianecki
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, and Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824
| | - Joon-Suk Park
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, and Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824; Laboratory Animal Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation, Daegu, Korea
| | - Libor Jaša
- *Department of Experimental Phycology and Ecotoxicology, Institute of Botany, Brno 60200, Czech Republic; RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno 62500, Czech Republic
| | - James E Trosko
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, and Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824
| | - Brad L Upham
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, and Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824
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Wartalski K, Knet-Seweryn M, Hoja-Lukowicz D, Tabarowski Z, Duda M. Androgen receptor-mediated non-genomic effects of vinclozolin on porcine ovarian follicles and isolated granulosa cells: Vinclozolin and non-genomic effects in porcine ovarian follicles. Acta Histochem 2016; 118:377-86. [PMID: 27094116 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2016.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Revised: 03/16/2016] [Accepted: 03/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The present study investigated the influence of the androgen receptor (AR) agonists testosterone (T) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and vinclozolin (Vnz), a fungicide with antiandrogenic activity, on non-genomic signal transduction within ovarian follicles. Porcine granulosa cells (GCs) isolated from mature follicles were cultured for 48h. For the last 24h of culture, they were exposed to T (10(-7)M), DHT (10(-7)M), Vnz (1.4×10(-5)M), T and Vnz (T+Vnz), or DHT and Vnz (DHT+Vnz) at the same concentrations. To better imitate in vivo conditions, whole follicles (4-6mm in diameter) were incubated (24h) in an organ culture system with the same factors. Expression of AR mRNA and protein was determined by real-time PCR and western blot analyses. To demonstrate AR localization in cultured GCs and whole follicles, immunocytochemistry and immunohistochemistry were performed, respectively. To elucidate the possible non-genomic action of Vnz in GCs, protein expression and the activity of ERK1/2 and Akt kinases were determined by western blot and ELISA analyses. The immunocytochemistry and immunohistochemistry results showed that exposure of GCs and follicles to Vnz resulted in cytoplasmic and perinuclear AR localization. Real-time PCR and western blot analysis showed that AR mRNA and protein expression increased (P≤0.001) in GC cultures after combined treatment with an androgen and Vnz. In whole follicles, such treatment also increased AR mRNA with a decrease in the respective protein expression (P≤0.001). Moreover, addition of T or DHT with Vnz increased the activity of ERK1/2 and Akt kinases in cultured GCs (P≤0.001). The results suggest a novel mechanism for Vnz action in porcine ovarian follicles on both AR mRNA and protein levels. Thus, this environmental antiandrogen activates non-genomic signaling pathways, as indicated by the increased activity of both investigated kinases observed within minutes of Vnz addition. Given the widespread presence of Vnz in the environment, elucidation of its non-genomic action should be the subject of studies on female fertility.
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21
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Aquilino M, Sánchez-Argüello P, Martínez-Guitarte JL. Vinclozolin alters the expression of hormonal and stress genes in the midge Chironomus riparius. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2016; 174:179-187. [PMID: 26966872 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2016.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Revised: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Vinclozolin is a fungicide used in agriculture that can reach aquatic ecosystems and affect the organisms living there. Its effects have been intensively studied in vertebrates, where it acts as an antiandrogen, but there is a lack of information about its mechanistic effects on invertebrates. In this work, we analyzed the response of genes related to the endocrine system, the stress response, and the detoxification mechanisms of Chironomus riparius fourth instar larvae after 24h and 48h exposures to 20 (69.9nM), 200 (699nM), and 2000μg/L (6.99μM) of Vinclozolin. Survival analysis showed that this compound has low toxicity, as it was not lethal for this organism at the concentrations used. However, this fungicide was shown to modify the transcriptional activity of the ecdysone response pathway genes EcR, E74, and Kr-h1 by increasing their mRNA levels. While no changes were observed in disembodied, a gene related with the ecdysone synthesis metabolic pathway, Cyp18A1, which is involved in the inactivation of the active form of ecdysone, was upregulated. Additionally, the expression of two genes related to other hormones, FOXO and MAPR, did not show any changes when Vinclozolin was present. The analysis of stress response genes showed significant changes in the mRNA levels of Hsp70, Hsp24, and Gp93, indicating that Vinclozolin activates the cellular stress mechanisms. Finally, the expressions of the genes Cyp4G and GstD3, which encode enzymes involved in phase I and phase II detoxification, respectively, were analyzed. It was found that their mRNA levels were altered by Vinclozolin, suggesting their involvement in the degradation of this compound. For the first time, these results show evidence that Vinclozolin can modulate gene expression, leading to possible significant endocrine alterations of the insect endocrine system. These results also offer new clues about the mode of action of this compound in invertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Aquilino
- Grupo de Biología y Toxicología Ambiental, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, UNED, Senda del Rey 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Paloma Sánchez-Argüello
- Laboratorio de Ecotoxicología, Departamento de Medioambiente, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Ctra. La Coruña km 7, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - José-Luis Martínez-Guitarte
- Grupo de Biología y Toxicología Ambiental, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, UNED, Senda del Rey 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
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Oliveira E, Barata C, Piña B. Endocrine Disruption in the Omics Era: New Views, New Hazards, New Approaches. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.2174/1874070701610010020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The genome revolution has brought about a complete change on our view of biological systems. The quantitative determination of changes in all the major molecular components of the living cells, the "omics" approach, opened whole new fields for all health sciences, including toxicology. Endocrine disruption,i.e., the capacity of anthropogenic pollutants to alter the hormonal balance of the organisms, is one of the fields of Ecotoxicology in which omics has a relevant role. In the first place, the discovery of scores of potential targets in the genome of almost any Metazoan species studied so far, each of them being a putative candidate for interaction with endocrine disruptors. In addition, the understanding that ligands, receptors, and their physiological functions suffered fundamental variations during animal evolution makes it necessary to assess disruption effects separately for each major taxon. Fortunately, the same deal of knowledge on genes and genomes powered the development of new high-throughput techniques and holistic approaches. Genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and others, together with appropriate prediction and modeling tools, will mark the future of endocrine disruption assessment both for wildlife and humans.
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23
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Investigations of putative reproductive toxicity of low-dose exposures to flutamide in Wistar rats. Arch Toxicol 2015; 89:2385-402. [PMID: 26525394 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-015-1622-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The current investigation examines whether the model anti-androgenic substance flutamide is capable of disrupting endocrine homeostasis at very low doses. The data generated clarify whether a non-monotonic dose-response relationship exists to enhance the current debate about the regulation of endocrine disruptors. Moreover, it is part of a series of investigations assessing the dose-response relationship of single and combined administration of anti-androgenic substances. A pre-postnatal in vivo study design was chosen, which was compliant with regulatory testing protocols. The test design was improved by additional endpoints addressing hormone levels, morphology, and histopathological examinations. Doses were chosen to represent a clear effect level (2.5 mg/kg bw/d), a low endocrine effect level (LOAEL, 0.25 mg/kg bw/d), a NOAEL for endocrine effects (0.025 mg/kg bw/d), a further dose at 0.0025 mg/kg bw/d flutamide, as well as an "ADI" (0.00025 mg/kg bw/d or 100-fold below the NOAEL) for the detection of a possible non-monotonic dose-response curve. Anti-androgenic changes were observable at LOAEL and the clear effect dose level but not at lower exposures. Nipple retention appeared to be the most sensitive measure of anti-androgenic effects, followed by age at sexual maturation, anogenital distance/anogenital index and male sex organ weights, as well as gross and histopathological findings. The results of all five doses indicate the absence of evidence for effects at very low dose levels. A non-monotonic dose-response relationship was not evident for the anti-androgenic drug flutamide.
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Gray LE, Furr J, Tatum-Gibbs KR, Lambright C, Sampson H, Hannas BR, Wilson VS, Hotchkiss A, Foster PMD. Establishing the "Biological Relevance" of Dipentyl Phthalate Reductions in Fetal Rat Testosterone Production and Plasma and Testis Testosterone Levels. Toxicol Sci 2015; 149:178-91. [PMID: 26454885 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfv224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Phthalate esters (PEs) constitute a large class of compounds that are used for many consumer product applications. Many of the C2-C7 di-ortho PEs reduce fetal testicular hormone and gene expression levels in rats resulting in adverse effects seen later in life but it appears that relatively large reductions in fetal testosterone (T) levels and testis gene expression may be required to adversely affect reproductive development (Hannas, B. R., Lambright, C. S., Furr, J., Evans, N., Foster, P. M., Gray, E. L., and Wilson, V. S. (2012). Genomic biomarkers of phthalate-induced male reproductive developmental toxicity: a targeted RT-PCR array approach for defining relative potency. Toxicol. Sci. 125, 544-557). The objectives of this study were (1) to model the relationships between changes in fetal male rat plasma testosterone (PT), T levels in the testis (TT), T production (PROD), and testis gene expression with the reproductive malformation rates, and (2) to quantify the "biologically relevant reductions" (BRRs) in fetal T necessary to induce adverse effects in the offspring. In the fetal experiment, Harlan Sprague-Dawley rats were dosed with dipentyl phthalate (DPeP) at 0, 11, 33, 100, and 300 mg/kg/day from gestational days (GD) 14-18 and fetal testicular T, PT levels, and T Prod and gene expression were assessed on GD 18. In the postnatal experiment, rats were dosed with DPeP from GD 8-18 and reproductive development was monitored through adulthood. The dose-response curves for TT levels (ED(50) = 53 mg/kg) and T PROD (ED(50) = 45 mg/kg) were similar, whereas PT was reduced at ED50 = 19 mg/kg. When the reductions in TPROD and Insl3 mRNA were compared with the postnatal effects of in utero DPeP, dose-related reproductive alterations were noted when T PROD and Insl3 mRNA were reduced by >45% and 42%, respectively. The determination of BRR levels may enable risk assessors to utilize fetal endocrine data to help establish points of departure for quantitative risk assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leon Earl Gray
- *Reproductive Toxicology Branch, Toxicology Assessment Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711;
| | - Johnathan Furr
- *Reproductive Toxicology Branch, Toxicology Assessment Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
| | - Katoria R Tatum-Gibbs
- *Reproductive Toxicology Branch, Toxicology Assessment Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
| | - Christy Lambright
- *Reproductive Toxicology Branch, Toxicology Assessment Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
| | | | - Bethany R Hannas
- *Reproductive Toxicology Branch, Toxicology Assessment Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
| | - Vickie S Wilson
- *Reproductive Toxicology Branch, Toxicology Assessment Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
| | | | - Paul M D Foster
- National Toxicology Program, NIEHS, NIH, DHHS, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709
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Cho S, Kim J, Lee S, Kim TH. Vinclozolin: 3-(3,5-di-chloro-phen-yl)-5-ethenyl-5-methyl-1,3-oxazolidine-2,4-dione. Acta Crystallogr Sect E Struct Rep Online 2014; 70:o754. [PMID: 25161548 PMCID: PMC4120555 DOI: 10.1107/s1600536814012781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2014] [Accepted: 06/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In the title compound, C12H9Cl2NO3, which is the fungicide vinclozolin, the dihedral angle between the oxazolidine ring mean plane [r.m.s. deviation = 0.029 Å] and the benzene ring is 77.55 (8)°. In the crystal, molecules are linked via C—H⋯O hydrogen bonds, forming chains along [010]. The chains are linked by short Cl⋯Cl contacts [3.4439 (3) and 3.5798 (3) Å], resulting in a three-dimensional architecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seonghwa Cho
- Department of Chemistry and Research Institute of Natural Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 660-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Jineun Kim
- Department of Chemistry and Research Institute of Natural Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 660-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangjin Lee
- Department of Chemistry and Research Institute of Natural Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 660-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Ho Kim
- Department of Chemistry and Research Institute of Natural Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 660-701, Republic of Korea
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Koçkaya EA, Kılıç Süloğlu A, Karacaoğlu E, Selmanoğlu G. Vinclozolin exposure throughout pregnancy and its developmental toxicity. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2014. [DOI: 10.1039/c4tx00037d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Vinclozolin administration effects: placenta, fetal tissues and skeletal measurements during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evrim Arzu Koçkaya
- The Higher Vocational School of Health Services
- Gazi University
- Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Elif Karacaoğlu
- Department of Biology
- Faculty of Science
- Hacettepe University
- Ankara, Turkey
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