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Abe N, Sakiyama A, Suzuki M, Win-Shwe TT, Suzuki T, Kawashima T, Tsukahara S. Ethynylestradiol feminizes gene expression partly in testis developing as ovotestis and disrupts asymmetric Müllerian duct development by eliminating asymmetric gene expression in Japanese quail embryos. Toxicol Sci 2024; 199:210-226. [PMID: 38526210 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfae033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
In avian embryos, xenoestrogens induce abnormalities in reproductive organs, particularly the testes and Müllerian ducts (MDs). However, the molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. We investigated the effects of ethynylestradiol (EE2) exposure on gene expression associated with reproductive organ development in Japanese quail embryos. Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis revealed that the left testis containing ovary-like tissues following EE2 exposure highly expressed the genes for steroidogenic enzymes (P450scc, P45017α, lyase, and 3β-HSD) and estrogen receptor-β, compared to the right testis. No asymmetry was found in these gene expression without EE2. EE2 induced hypertrophy in female MDs and suppressed atrophy in male MDs on both sides. RNA sequencing analysis of female MDs showed 1,366 differentially expressed genes between developing left MD and atrophied right MD in the absence of EE2, and these genes were enriched in Gene Ontology terms related to organogenesis, including cell proliferation, migration and differentiation, and angiogenesis. However, EE2 reduced asymmetrically expressed genes to 21. RT-qPCR analysis indicated that genes promoting cell cycle progression and oncogenesis were more highly expressed in the left MD than in the right MD, but EE2 eliminated such asymmetric gene expression by increasing levels on the right side. EE2-exposed males showed overexpression of these genes in both MDs. This study reveals part of the molecular basis of xenoestrogen-induced abnormalities in avian reproductive organs, where EE2 may partly feminize gene expression in the left testis, developing as the ovotestis, and induce bilateral MD malformation by canceling asymmetric gene expression underlying MD development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natsuko Abe
- Division of Life Science, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, Saitama 338-8570, Japan
| | - Akari Sakiyama
- Division of Life Science, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, Saitama 338-8570, Japan
| | - Maho Suzuki
- Division of Life Science, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, Saitama 338-8570, Japan
| | - Tin-Tin Win-Shwe
- Health and Environmental Risk Division, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | - Takehiro Suzuki
- Health and Environmental Risk Division, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | - Takaharu Kawashima
- Health and Environmental Risk Division, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | - Shinji Tsukahara
- Division of Life Science, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, Saitama 338-8570, Japan
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2
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Balthazart J. A tribute to Gian Carlo Panzica (17 August 1949-21 July 2022). Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 67:101034. [PMID: 36058300 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2022.101034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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3
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Balthazart J. In memoriam - Gian Carlo Panzica (17 August 1949-21 July 2022). Horm Behav 2022; 144:105247. [PMID: 35988340 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2022.105247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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4
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Ren Z, Ku T, Gao Y, Yang X, Meng L, Liu QS, Liang J, Xu H, Liao C, Zhou Q, Faiola F, Jiang G. Perfluorinated Iodine Alkanes Promoted Neural Differentiation of mESCs by Targeting miRNA-34a-5p in Notch-Hes Signaling. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:8496-8506. [PMID: 35609006 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c01051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The neurodevelopmental process is highly vulnerable to environmental stress from exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Perfluorinated iodine alkanes (PFIs) possess estrogenic activities, while their potential neurodevelopmental toxicity remains blurry. In the present study, the effects of two PFIs, including dodecafluoro-1,6-diiodohexane (PFHxDI) and tridecafluorohexyl iodide (PFHxI), were investigated in the neural differentiation of the mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs). Without influencing the cytobiological process of the mESCs, PFIs interfered the triploblastic development by increasing ectodermal differentiation, thus promoting subsequent neurogenesis. The temporal regulation of PFIs in Notch-Hes signaling through the targeting of mmu-miRNA-34a-5p provided a substantial explanation for the underlying mechanism of PFI-promoted mESC commitment to the neural lineage. The findings herein provided new knowledge on the potential neurodevelopmental toxicities of PFIs, which would help advance the health risk assessment of these kinds of emerging chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihua Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Tingting Ku
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- College of Environment and Resource, Research Center of Environment and Health, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Yurou Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- College of Sino-Danish, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiaoxi Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Lingyi Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Qian S Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Jiefeng Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- College of Sino-Danish, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Hanqing Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Chunyang Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Qunfang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
| | - Francesco Faiola
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guibin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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5
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Marlatt VL, Bayen S, Castaneda-Cortès D, Delbès G, Grigorova P, Langlois VS, Martyniuk CJ, Metcalfe CD, Parent L, Rwigemera A, Thomson P, Van Der Kraak G. Impacts of endocrine disrupting chemicals on reproduction in wildlife and humans. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 208:112584. [PMID: 34951986 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are ubiquitous in aquatic and terrestrial environments. The main objective of this review was to summarize the current knowledge of the impacts of EDCs on reproductive success in wildlife and humans. The examples selected often include a retrospective assessment of the knowledge of reproductive impacts over time to discern how the effects of EDCs have changed over the last several decades. Collectively, the evidence summarized here within reinforce the concept that reproduction in wildlife and humans is negatively impacted by anthropogenic chemicals, with several altering endocrine system function. These observations of chemicals interfering with different aspects of the reproductive endocrine axis are particularly pronounced for aquatic species and are often corroborated by laboratory-based experiments (i.e. fish, amphibians, birds). Noteworthy, many of these same indicators are also observed in epidemiological studies in mammalian wildlife and humans. Given the vast array of reproductive strategies used by animals, it is perhaps not surprising that no single disrupted target is predictive of reproductive effects. Nevertheless, there are some general features of the endocrine control of reproduction, and in particular, the critical role that steroid hormones play in these processes that confer a high degree of susceptibility to environmental chemicals. New research is needed on the implications of chemical exposures during development and the potential for long-term reproductive effects. Future emphasis on field-based observations that can form the basis of more deliberate, extensive, and long-term population level studies to monitor contaminant effects, including adverse effects on the endocrine system, are key to addressing these knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- V L Marlatt
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada.
| | - S Bayen
- Department of Food Science and Agricultural Chemistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - D Castaneda-Cortès
- Centre Eau Terre Environnement, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - G Delbès
- Centre Armand Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - P Grigorova
- Département Science et Technologie, Université TELUQ, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - V S Langlois
- Centre Eau Terre Environnement, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - C J Martyniuk
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - C D Metcalfe
- School of Environment, Trent University, Trent, Canada
| | - L Parent
- Département Science et Technologie, Université TELUQ, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - A Rwigemera
- Centre Armand Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - P Thomson
- Centre Eau Terre Environnement, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - G Van Der Kraak
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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Tsukahara S, Morishita M, Sasaki S, Wakayama K, Kobayashi K, Ohno K, Kawashima T. Sexually dimorphic expression of sexual differentiation genes in the internal genital organs of Japanese quail embryos. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2021; 314:113917. [PMID: 34555414 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2021.113917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) is an avian model used to evaluate the reproductive and developmental toxicity of chemicals. The National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES) of Japan established a strain of Japanese quail, NIES-L, which may be a better model because of its highly inbred characteristics. To understand sexual differentiation of the reproductive organs and the value of using NIES-L quails for avian toxicity assessment, we profiled estradiol and androgen plasma levels by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; the mRNA levels of estrogen receptor-α (ERα), ERβ, and androgen receptor (AR) in the gonads, Müllerian ducts, Wolffian ducts; and the mRNA levels of steroidogenic enzymes, cholesterol side chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc), 17α-hydroxylase/C17-20 lyase (P45017α, lyase), 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD), 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD), and aromatase (P450arom), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), and AMH receptor type 2 (AMHR2) in the gonads of NIES-L Japanese quails on embryonic days 9, 12, and 15 using a real-time quantitative PCR method. The plasma estradiol concentration was higher in females than males on these embryonic days, but no sex difference was found in the plasma androgens. The mRNA levels of all examined steroidogenic enzymes were significantly higher in female than male embryos. In particular, the P450arom mRNA levels showed a striking sex difference: P450arom was expressed in female but not male gonads. In contrast, the AMH and AMHR2 mRNA levels in the gonads were higher in males than females. The ERα, ERβ, and AR mRNA levels increased in the left female gonad and peaked on embryonic day 15, but not in the left and right male gonads; therefore, there was a female-biased sex difference. The ERα, ERβ, and AR mRNA levels in the left Müllerian duct, but not in the right Müllerian duct, of females increased and peaked on embryonic day 15, which resulted in asymmetric mRNA levels. The Wolffian ducts expressed ERα, ERβ, and AR in both sexes, and no sex difference or asymmetry of mRNA levels was found. The information obtained from this study helps elucidate the molecular endocrinological basis of sexual dimorphism formation of reproductive organs and clarify the value of NIES-L quails for toxicity assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinji Tsukahara
- Division of Life Science, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, Saitama 338-8570, Japan.
| | - Masahiro Morishita
- Division of Life Science, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, Saitama 338-8570, Japan
| | - Shiho Sasaki
- Division of Life Science, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, Saitama 338-8570, Japan
| | - Kanta Wakayama
- Division of Life Science, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, Saitama 338-8570, Japan
| | - Kaito Kobayashi
- Division of Life Science, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saitama University, Saitama 338-8570, Japan
| | - Koichi Ohno
- Research Office for Environmental Risk Science, Health and Environmental Risk Division, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | - Takaharu Kawashima
- Research Office for Environmental Risk Science, Health and Environmental Risk Division, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
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7
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Bonaldo B, Casile A, Bettarelli M, Gotti S, Panzica G, Marraudino M. Effects of chronic exposure to bisphenol A in adult female mice on social behavior, vasopressin system, and estrogen membrane receptor (GPER1). Eur J Histochem 2021; 65:3272. [PMID: 34755506 PMCID: PMC8607277 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2021.3272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA), an organic synthetic compound found in some plastics and epoxy resins, is classified as an endocrine disrupting chemical. Exposure to BPA is especially dangerous if it occurs during specific "critical periods" of life, when organisms are more sensitive to hormonal changes (i.e., intrauterine, perinatal, juvenile or puberty periods). In this study, we focused on the effects of chronic exposure to BPA in adult female mice starting during pregnancy. Three months old C57BL/6J females were orally exposed to BPA or to vehicle (corn oil). The treatment (4 µg/kg body weight/day) started the day 0 of pregnancy and continued throughout pregnancy, lactation, and lasted for a total of 20 weeks. BPA-treated dams did not show differences in body weight or food intake, but they showed an altered estrous cycle compared to the controls. In order to evidence alterations in social and sociosexual behaviors, we performed the Three-Chamber test for sociability, and analyzed two hypothalamic circuits (well-known targets of endocrine disruption) particularly involved in the control of social behavior: the vasopressin and the oxytocin systems. The test revealed some alterations in the displaying of social behavior: BPA-treated dams have higher locomotor activity compared to the control dams, probably a signal of high level of anxiety. In addition, BPA-treated dams spent more time interacting with no-tester females than with no-tester males. In brain sections, we observed a decrease of vasopressin immunoreactivity (only in the paraventricular and suprachiasmatic nuclei) of BPA-treated females, while we did not find any alteration of the oxytocin system. In parallel, we have also observed, in the same hypothalamic nuclei, a significant reduction of the membrane estrogen receptor GPER1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brigitta Bonaldo
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Orbassano (TO); Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi-Montalcini", University of Turin.
| | - Antonino Casile
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Orbassano (TO).
| | | | - Stefano Gotti
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Orbassano (TO); Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi-Montalcini", University of Turin.
| | - GianCarlo Panzica
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Orbassano (TO); Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi-Montalcini", University of Turin.
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8
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Sex-biased impact of endocrine disrupting chemicals on behavioral development and vulnerability to disease: Of mice and children. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 121:29-46. [PMID: 33248148 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Sex is a fundamental biological characteristic that influences many aspects of an organism's phenotype, including neurobiological functions and behavior as a result of species-specific evolutionary pressures. Sex differences have strong implications for vulnerability to disease and susceptibility to environmental perturbations. Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) have the potential to interfere with sex hormones functioning and influence development in a sex specific manner. Here we present an updated descriptive review of findings from animal models and human studies regarding the current evidence for altered sex-differences in behavioral development in response to early exposure to EDCs, with a focus on bisphenol A and phthalates. Overall, we show that animal and human studies have a good degree of consistency and that there is strong evidence demonstrating that EDCs exposure during critical periods of development affect sex differences in emotional and cognitive behaviors. Results are more heterogeneous when social, sexual and parental behaviors are considered. In order to pinpoint sex differences in environmentally-driven disease vulnerabilities, researchers need to consider sex-biased developmental effects of EDCs.
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Ponti G, Farinetti A, Marraudino M, Panzica G, Gotti S. Postnatal genistein administration selectively abolishes sexual dimorphism in specific hypothalamic dopaminergic system in mice. Brain Res 2019; 1724:146434. [PMID: 31491419 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2019.146434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
As demonstrated in previous studies, early postnatal genistein (GEN) administration to mice pups of both sexes, at doses similar to that of infant soy-based formulas, may affect the development of some steroid-sensitive neuronal circuits (i.e. nitrergic and vasopressinergic systems), causing irreversible alterations in adults. Here, we investigated the hypothalamic and mesencephalic dopaminergic system (identified with tyrosine hydroxylase immunohistochemistry). GEN administration (50 mg/kg) to mice of both sexes during the first week of postnatal life specifically affected tyrosine hydroxylase immunohistochemistry in the hypothalamic subpopulation of neurons, abolishing their sexual dimorphism. On the contrary, we did not observe any effects in the mesencephalic groups. Due to the large involvement of dopamine in circuits controlling rodent sexual behavior and food intake, these results clearly indicate that the early postnatal administration of GEN may irreversibly alter the control of reproduction, of energetic metabolism, and other behaviors. These results suggest the need for a careful evaluation of the use of soy products in both human and animal newborns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Ponti
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10-10043 Orbassano (TO), Italy; Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco (T0), Italy.
| | - Alice Farinetti
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi-Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126 Turin, Italy; Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10-10043 Orbassano (TO), Italy
| | - Marilena Marraudino
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi-Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126 Turin, Italy; Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10-10043 Orbassano (TO), Italy
| | - GianCarlo Panzica
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi-Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126 Turin, Italy; Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10-10043 Orbassano (TO), Italy
| | - Stefano Gotti
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi-Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126 Turin, Italy; Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10-10043 Orbassano (TO), Italy
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10
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Street ME, Angelini S, Bernasconi S, Burgio E, Cassio A, Catellani C, Cirillo F, Deodati A, Fabbrizi E, Fanos V, Gargano G, Grossi E, Iughetti L, Lazzeroni P, Mantovani A, Migliore L, Palanza P, Panzica G, Papini AM, Parmigiani S, Predieri B, Sartori C, Tridenti G, Amarri S. Current Knowledge on Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) from Animal Biology to Humans, from Pregnancy to Adulthood: Highlights from a National Italian Meeting. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E1647. [PMID: 29865233 PMCID: PMC6032228 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19061647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Revised: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Wildlife has often presented and suggested the effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Animal studies have given us an important opportunity to understand the mechanisms of action of many chemicals on the endocrine system and on neurodevelopment and behaviour, and to evaluate the effects of doses, time and duration of exposure. Although results are sometimes conflicting because of confounding factors, epidemiological studies in humans suggest effects of EDCs on prenatal growth, thyroid function, glucose metabolism and obesity, puberty, fertility, and on carcinogenesis mainly through epigenetic mechanisms. This manuscript reviews the reports of a multidisciplinary national meeting on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Elisabeth Street
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Paediatrics, Azienda USL-IRCCS, Viale Risorgimento 80, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Sabrina Angelini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Sergio Bernasconi
- Former Department of Medicine, University of Parma, Via A. Catalani 10, 43123 Parma, Italy.
| | - Ernesto Burgio
- ECERI European Cancer and Environment Research Institute, Square de Meeus, 38-40, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium.
| | - Alessandra Cassio
- Pediatric Endocrinology Programme, Pediatrics Unit, Department of Woman, Child Health and Urologic Diseases, AOU S. Orsola-Malpighi, Via Massarenti, 11, 40138 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Cecilia Catellani
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Paediatrics, Azienda USL-IRCCS, Viale Risorgimento 80, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Francesca Cirillo
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Paediatrics, Azienda USL-IRCCS, Viale Risorgimento 80, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Annalisa Deodati
- Department of Pediatrics (DPUO), Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Tor Vergata University, Piazza S. Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy.
| | - Enrica Fabbrizi
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Augusto Murri Hospital, Via Augusto Murri, 17, 63900 Fermo, Itlay.
| | - Vassilios Fanos
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Neonatal Pathology and Neonatal Section, AOU and University of Cagliari, via Ospedale, 54, 09124 Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Giancarlo Gargano
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Paediatrics, Azienda USL-IRCCS, Viale Risorgimento 80, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Enzo Grossi
- Villa Santa Maria Institute, Neuropsychiatric Rehabilitation Center, Via IV Novembre 15, 22038 Tavernerio (Como), Italy.
| | - Lorenzo Iughetti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of the Mother, Children and Adults, Pediatrics Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, via del Pozzo, 71, 41124 Modena, Italy.
| | - Pietro Lazzeroni
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Paediatrics, Azienda USL-IRCCS, Viale Risorgimento 80, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Alberto Mantovani
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Food and Veterinary Toxicology Unit ISS⁻National Institute of Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Lucia Migliore
- Department of Traslational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Roma, 55, 56123 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Paola Palanza
- Unit of Neuroscience, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Via Gramsci, 14, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Giancarlo Panzica
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126 Turin, Italy.
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10, 10043 Orbassano (Turin), Italy.
| | - Anna Maria Papini
- Department of Chemistry 'Ugo Schiff', University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia, 3-13, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy.
| | - Stefano Parmigiani
- Unit of Evolutionary and Functional Biology-Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability (SCVSA)-University of Parma⁻11/a, 43124 Parma, Italy.
| | - Barbara Predieri
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of the Mother, Children and Adults, Pediatrics Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, via del Pozzo, 71, 41124 Modena, Italy.
| | - Chiara Sartori
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Paediatrics, Azienda USL-IRCCS, Viale Risorgimento 80, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Gabriele Tridenti
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Paediatrics, Azienda USL-IRCCS, Viale Risorgimento 80, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Sergio Amarri
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Paediatrics, Azienda USL-IRCCS, Viale Risorgimento 80, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy.
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11
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Heindel JJ, Blumberg B, Cave M, Machtinger R, Mantovani A, Mendez MA, Nadal A, Palanza P, Panzica G, Sargis R, Vandenberg LN, Vom Saal F. Metabolism disrupting chemicals and metabolic disorders. Reprod Toxicol 2017; 68:3-33. [PMID: 27760374 PMCID: PMC5365353 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2016.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 646] [Impact Index Per Article: 92.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2016] [Revised: 09/04/2016] [Accepted: 10/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The recent epidemics of metabolic diseases, obesity, type 2 diabetes(T2D), liver lipid disorders and metabolic syndrome have largely been attributed to genetic background and changes in diet, exercise and aging. However, there is now considerable evidence that other environmental factors may contribute to the rapid increase in the incidence of these metabolic diseases. This review will examine changes to the incidence of obesity, T2D and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the contribution of genetics to these disorders and describe the role of the endocrine system in these metabolic disorders. It will then specifically focus on the role of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in the etiology of obesity, T2D and NAFLD while finally integrating the information on EDCs on multiple metabolic disorders that could lead to metabolic syndrome. We will specifically examine evidence linking EDC exposures during critical periods of development with metabolic diseases that manifest later in life and across generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerrold J Heindel
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Division of Extramural Research and Training Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
| | - Bruce Blumberg
- University of California, Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, Irvine CA, USA
| | - Mathew Cave
- University of Louisville, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Louisville KY, USA
| | | | | | - Michelle A Mendez
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Public Health, Chapel Hill NC, USA
| | - Angel Nadal
- Institute of Bioengineering and CIBERDEM, Miguel Hernandez University of Elche, Elche, Alicante, Spain
| | - Paola Palanza
- University of Parma, Department of Neurosciences, Parma, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Panzica
- University of Turin, Department of Neuroscience and Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Turin, Italy
| | - Robert Sargis
- University of Chicago, Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Laura N Vandenberg
- University of Massachusetts, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health & Health Sciences, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Frederick Vom Saal
- University of Missouri, Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia, MO, USA
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12
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Ponti G, Rodriguez-Gomez A, Farinetti A, Marraudino M, Filice F, Foglio B, Sciacca G, Panzica GC, Gotti S. Early postnatal genistein administration permanently affects nitrergic and vasopressinergic systems in a sex-specific way. Neuroscience 2017; 346:203-215. [PMID: 28131623 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2017.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2016] [Revised: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Genistein (GEN) is a natural xenoestrogen (isoflavonoid) that may interfere with the development of estrogen-sensitive neural circuits. Due to the large and increasing use of soy-based formulas for babies (characterized by a high content of GEN), there are some concerns that this could result in an impairment of some estrogen-sensitive neural circuits and behaviors. In a previous study, we demonstrated that its oral administration to female mice during late pregnancy and early lactation induced a significant decrease of nitric oxide synthase-positive cells in the amygdala of their male offspring. In the present study, we have used a different experimental protocol mimicking, in mice, the direct precocious exposure to GEN. Mice pups of both sexes were fed either with oil, estradiol or GEN from birth to postnatal day 8. Nitric oxide synthase and vasopressin neural systems were analyzed in adult mice. Interestingly, we observed that GEN effect was time specific (when compared to our previous study), sex specific, and not always comparable to the effects of estradiol. This last observation suggests that GEN may act through different intracellular pathways. Present results indicate that the effect of natural xenoestrogens on the development of the brain may be highly variable: a plethora of neuronal circuits may be affected depending on sex, time of exposure, intracellular pathway involved, and target cells. This raises concern on the possible long-term effects of the use of soy-based formulas for babies, which may be currently underestimated.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Ponti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Largo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco (TO), University of Torino, Torino, Italy; Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10 - 10043 Orbassano (TO), Torino, Italy.
| | - A Rodriguez-Gomez
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10 - 10043 Orbassano (TO), Torino, Italy; Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Neuroscience, Via Cherasco 15, 10126-University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - A Farinetti
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10 - 10043 Orbassano (TO), Torino, Italy; Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Neuroscience, Via Cherasco 15, 10126-University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - M Marraudino
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10 - 10043 Orbassano (TO), Torino, Italy; Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Neuroscience, Via Cherasco 15, 10126-University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - F Filice
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Neuroscience, Via Cherasco 15, 10126-University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - B Foglio
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10 - 10043 Orbassano (TO), Torino, Italy; Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Neuroscience, Via Cherasco 15, 10126-University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - G Sciacca
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10 - 10043 Orbassano (TO), Torino, Italy; Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Neuroscience, Via Cherasco 15, 10126-University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - G C Panzica
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10 - 10043 Orbassano (TO), Torino, Italy; Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Neuroscience, Via Cherasco 15, 10126-University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - S Gotti
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole, 10 - 10043 Orbassano (TO), Torino, Italy; Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Neuroscience, Via Cherasco 15, 10126-University of Torino, Torino, Italy
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13
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Schlenker EH. Sexual dimorphism of cardiopulmonary regulation in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2016; 245:37-44. [PMID: 27756648 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2016.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Revised: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 10/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus (ANH) interacts with other hypothalamic nuclei, forebrain regions, and downstream brain sites to affect autonomic nervous system outflow, energy balance, temperature regulation, sleep, arousal, neuroendocrine function, reproduction, and cardiopulmonary regulation. Compared to studies of other ANH functions, how the ANH regulates cardiopulmonary function is less understood. Importantly, the ANH exhibits structural and functional sexually dimorphic characteristics and contains numerous neuroactive substances and receptors including leptin, neuropeptide Y, glutamate, acetylcholine, endorphins, orexin, kisspeptin, insulin, Agouti-related protein, cocaine and amphetamine-regulated transcript, dopamine, somatostatin, components of renin-angiotensin system and gamma amino butyric acid that modulate physiological functions. Moreover, several clinically relevant disorders are associated with ANH ventilatory control dysfunction. This review highlights how ANH neurotransmitter systems and receptors modulate breathing differently in male and female rodents. Results highlight the significance of the ANH in cardiopulmonary regulation. The paucity of studies in this area that will hopefully spark investigations of sexually dimorphic ANH-modulation of breathing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn H Schlenker
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine of the University of South Dakota, 414 East Clark St., Vermillion, SD, 57069, United States.
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14
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Bo E, Farinetti A, Marraudino M, Sterchele D, Eva C, Gotti S, Panzica G. Adult exposure to tributyltin affects hypothalamic neuropeptide Y, Y1 receptor distribution, and circulating leptin in mice. Andrology 2016; 4:723-34. [PMID: 27310180 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Revised: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 04/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Tributyltin (TBT), a pesticide used in antifouling paints, is toxic for aquatic invertebrates. In vertebrates, TBT may act in obesogen- inducing adipogenetic gene transcription for adipocyte differentiation. In a previous study, we demonstrated that acute administration of TBT induces c-fos expression in the arcuate nucleus. Therefore, in this study, we tested the hypothesis that adult exposure to TBT may alter a part of the nervous pathways controlling animal food intake. In particular, we investigated the expression of neuropeptide Y (NPY) immunoreactivity. This neuropeptide forms neural circuits dedicated to food assumption and its action is mediated by Y1 receptors that are widely expressed in the hypothalamic nuclei responsible for the regulation of food intake and energy homeostasis. To this purpose, TBT was orally administered at a dose of 0.025 mg/kg/day/body weight to adult animals [male and female C57BL/6 (Y1-LacZ transgenic mice] for 4 weeks. No differences were found in body weight and fat deposition, but we observed a significant increase in feed efficiency in TBT-treated male mice and a significant decrease in circulating leptin in both sexes. Computerized quantitative analysis of NPY immunoreactivity and Y1-related β-galactosidase activity demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in NPY and Y1 transgene expression in the hypothalamic circuit controlling food intake of treated male mice in comparison with controls. In conclusion, the present results indicate that adult exposure to TBT is profoundly interfering with the nervous circuits involved in the stimulation of food intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Bo
- Department Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Torino, Italy
| | - A Farinetti
- Department Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Torino, Italy
| | - M Marraudino
- Department Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Torino, Italy
| | - D Sterchele
- Department Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Torino, Italy
| | - C Eva
- Department Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), Torino, Italy.,Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Torino, Italy
| | - S Gotti
- Department Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Torino, Italy
| | - G Panzica
- Department Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,National Institute of Neuroscience (INN), Torino, Italy.,Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Torino, Italy
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15
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Palanza P, Nagel SC, Parmigiani S, Vom Saal FS. Perinatal exposure to endocrine disruptors: sex, timing and behavioral endpoints. Curr Opin Behav Sci 2015; 7:69-75. [PMID: 27019862 DOI: 10.1016/j.cobeha.2015.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Of the approximately 85,000 chemicals in use, 1000 have been identified as having the ability to disrupt normal endocrine function. Exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) during critical period in brain differentiation (prenatal and neonatal life) via the mother can alter the course of the development of sexually dimorphic behaviors. Bisphenol A (BPA) is a very high volume chemical used in plastic, resins and other products, and virtually everyone examined has detectable BPA. BPA has estrogenic activity and is one of the most studied EDCs. We review evidence from studies in rodents using dose levels relevant to human exposure. BPA alters behavior and eliminates or in some cases reverses sexually dimorphic behaviors observed in unexposed animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Palanza
- Unit of Behavioral Biology, Department of Neuroscience, University of Parma, Viale delle Scienze 11/A, Parma 43100, Italy
| | - Susan C Nagel
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, USA
| | - Stefano Parmigiani
- Unit of Behavioral Biology, Department of Neuroscience, University of Parma, Viale delle Scienze 11/A, Parma 43100, Italy
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16
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Vignet C, Joassard L, Lyphout L, Guionnet T, Goubeau M, Le Menach K, Brion F, Kah O, Chung BC, Budzinski H, Bégout ML, Cousin X. Exposures of zebrafish through diet to three environmentally relevant mixtures of PAHs produce behavioral disruptions in unexposed F1 and F2 descendant. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:16371-16383. [PMID: 25639250 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-4157-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2014] [Accepted: 01/20/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The release of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) into the environment has increased very substantially over the last decades. PAHs are hydrophobic molecules which can accumulate in high concentrations in sediments acting then as major secondary sources. Fish contamination can occur through contact or residence nearby sediments or though dietary exposure. In this study, we analyzed certain physiological traits in unexposed fish (F1) issued from parents (F0) exposed through diet to three PAH mixtures at similar and environmentally relevant concentrations but differing in their compositions. For each mixture, no morphological differences were observed between concentrations. An increase in locomotor activity was observed in larvae issued from fish exposed to the highest concentration of a pyrolytic (PY) mixture. On the contrary, a decrease in locomotor activity was observed in larvae issued from heavy oil mixture (HO). In the case of the third mixture, light oil (LO), a reduction of the diurnal activity was observed during the setup of larval activity. Behavioral disruptions persisted in F1-PY juveniles and in their offspring (F2). Endocrine disruption was analyzed using cyp19a1b:GFP transgenic line and revealed disruptions in PY and LO offspring. Since no PAH metabolites were dosed in larvae, these findings suggest possible underlying mechanisms such as altered parental signaling molecule and/or hormone transferred in the gametes, eventually leading to early imprinting. Taken together, these results indicate that physiological disruptions are observed in offspring of fish exposed to PAH mixtures through diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Vignet
- Ecotoxicology Laboratory, Ifremer, Place Gaby Coll, BP7, 17137, L'Houmeau, France
| | - Lucette Joassard
- Fisheries laboratory, Ifremer, Place Gaby Coll, BP7, 17137, L'Houmeau, France
| | - Laura Lyphout
- Fisheries laboratory, Ifremer, Place Gaby Coll, BP7, 17137, L'Houmeau, France
| | - Tiphaine Guionnet
- Fisheries laboratory, Ifremer, Place Gaby Coll, BP7, 17137, L'Houmeau, France
| | - Manon Goubeau
- Ecotoxicology Laboratory, Ifremer, Place Gaby Coll, BP7, 17137, L'Houmeau, France
| | - Karyn Le Menach
- University of Bordeaux 1, EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, 33405, Talence, France
| | - François Brion
- Unité d'Ecotoxicologie in vitro et in vivo, Direction des Risques Chroniques, INERIS, 60550, Verneuil-en-Halatte, France
| | - Olivier Kah
- INSERM U1085, Research Institute in Health, Environment and Occupation, Team NEED, Case 1302Université de Rennes 1 Campus de Beaulieu, 35 042, Rennes cedex, France
| | - Bon-Chu Chung
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hélène Budzinski
- University of Bordeaux 1, EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, 33405, Talence, France
| | - Marie-Laure Bégout
- Fisheries laboratory, Ifremer, Place Gaby Coll, BP7, 17137, L'Houmeau, France
| | - Xavier Cousin
- Ecotoxicology Laboratory, Ifremer, Place Gaby Coll, BP7, 17137, L'Houmeau, France.
- INRA LPGP, Campus de Beaulieu, 35042, Rennes, France.
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17
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Gioiosa L, Palanza P, Parmigiani S, Vom Saal FS. Risk Evaluation of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals: Effects of Developmental Exposure to Low Doses of Bisphenol A on Behavior and Physiology in Mice (Mus musculus). Dose Response 2015; 13:1559325815610760. [PMID: 26740806 PMCID: PMC4679202 DOI: 10.1177/1559325815610760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
We review here our studies on early exposure to low doses of the estrogenic endocrine-disrupting chemical bisphenol A (BPA) on behavior and metabolism in CD-1 mice. Mice were exposed in utero from gestation day (GD) 11 to delivery (prenatal exposure) or via maternal milk from birth to postnatal day 7 (postnatal exposure) to 10 µg/kg body weight/d of BPA or no BPA (controls). Bisphenol A exposure resulted in long-term disruption of sexually dimorphic behaviors. Females exposed to BPA pre- and postnatally showed increased anxiety and behavioral profiles similar to control males. We also evaluated metabolic effects in prenatally exposed adult male offspring of dams fed (from GD 9 to 18) with BPA at doses ranging from 5 to 50 000 µg/kg/d. The males showed an age-related significant change in a number of metabolic indexes ranging from food intake to glucose regulation at BPA doses below the no observed adverse effect level (5000 µg/kg/d). Consistent with prior findings, low but not high BPA doses produced significant effects for many outcomes. These findings provide further evidence of the potential risks that developmental exposure to low doses of the endocrine disrupter BPA may pose to human health, with fetuses and infants being highly vulnerable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Gioiosa
- Behavioral Biology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Paola Palanza
- Behavioral Biology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Stefano Parmigiani
- Behavioral Biology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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18
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Vignet C, Le Menach K, Lyphout L, Guionnet T, Frère L, Leguay D, Budzinski H, Cousin X, Bégout ML. Chronic dietary exposure to pyrolytic and petrogenic mixtures of PAHs causes physiological disruption in zebrafish--part II: behavior. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 21:13818-32. [PMID: 24671398 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-014-2762-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2013] [Accepted: 03/10/2014] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
In the last 10 years, behavior assessment has been developed as an indicator of neurotoxicity and an integrated indicator of physiological disruption. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) release into the environment has increased in recent decades resulting in high concentrations of these compounds in the sediment of contaminated areas. We evaluated the behavioral consequences of long-term chronic exposure to PAHs, by exposing zebrafish to diets spiked with three PAH fractions at environmentally relevant concentrations. Fish were exposed to these chemicals from their first meal (5 days postfertilization) until they became reproducing adults (at 6 months old). The fractions used were representative of PAHs of pyrolytic (PY) origin and of two oils differing in composition (a heavy fuel oil (HO) and a light crude oil (LO)). Several tests were carried out to evaluate circadian spontaneous swimming activity, responses to a challenge (photomotor response), exploratory tendencies, and anxiety levels. We found that dietary PAH exposure was associated with greater mobility, lower levels of exploratory activity, and higher levels of anxiety, particularly in fish exposed to the HO fraction and, to a lesser extent, the LO fraction. Finally, our results indicate that PAH mixtures of different compositions, representative of situations encountered in the wild, can induce behavioral disruptions resulting in poorer fish performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Vignet
- Laboratoire d'Ecotoxicologie, Ifremer, Place Gaby Coll, BP7, 17137, L'Houmeau, France
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19
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Rodriguez-Gomez A, Filice F, Gotti S, Panzica G. Perinatal exposure to genistein affects the normal development of anxiety and aggressive behaviors and nitric oxide system in CD1 male mice. Physiol Behav 2014; 133:107-14. [PMID: 24874775 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2014.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2014] [Revised: 04/17/2014] [Accepted: 05/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Genistein is a phytoestrogen, particularly abundant in soybeans, that is able to bind estrogen receptors exerting both estrogenic and antiestrogenic activities. Genistein is largely present in the human diet even during pregnancy. Embryos and fetuses are therefore, commonly exposed to genistein during the development and after birth. In the present study, we used a murine model as a test end-point to investigate the effects of early exposure to genistein on adult male behavior and related neural circuits. Daily exposure of dams to genistein (100 μg/g of body weight) during late pregnancy and early lactation, produced in male offspring, when adults, significant changes in anxiety and aggressive behaviors. Moreover, we found statistically significant variations in the number of neuronal nitric-oxide synthase positive cells in the amygdala. In conclusions, these data indicate that early exposure to phytoestrogens may induce life-long effects on the differentiation of brain structures and behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Rodriguez-Gomez
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Torino, Corso M. D'Azeglio 52, 10126 Torino, Italy; Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole 10, Orbassano, Torino, Italy
| | - Federica Filice
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Torino, Corso M. D'Azeglio 52, 10126 Torino, Italy; Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole 10, Orbassano, Torino, Italy
| | - Stefano Gotti
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Torino, Corso M. D'Azeglio 52, 10126 Torino, Italy; Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole 10, Orbassano, Torino, Italy
| | - GianCarlo Panzica
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Torino, Corso M. D'Azeglio 52, 10126 Torino, Italy; Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri-Ottolenghi (NICO), Regione Gonzole 10, Orbassano, Torino, Italy.
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20
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Lilienthal H, Heikkinen P, Andersson PL, Viluksela M. Sexually dimorphic behavior after developmental exposure to characterize endocrine-mediated effects of different non-dioxin-like PCBs in rats. Toxicology 2013; 311:52-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2013.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2012] [Revised: 01/15/2013] [Accepted: 01/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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21
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Ottinger MA, Carro T, Bohannon M, Baltos L, Marcell AM, McKernan M, Dean KM, Lavoie E, Abdelnabi M. Assessing effects of environmental chemicals on neuroendocrine systems: potential mechanisms and functional outcomes. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2013; 190:194-202. [PMID: 23773971 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2013.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2013] [Revised: 05/11/2013] [Accepted: 06/06/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Environmental pollutants encompass a vast array of compounds. Most studies in birds have focused on toxicological effects, with little attention to non-lethal effects. Consequently, it has proven difficult to assess potential risk associated with exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Assessing potential adverse effects due to exposure is further complicated by the great variation that occurs across avian species. These include variations in reproductive strategies, life span, sexual differentiation, and migration. Differences in reproductive strategies, particularly in the developmental patterns and mechanisms for precocial and altricial chicks, predispose birds to wide variations in response to steroids and steroid-like EDCs. We have investigated the effects of EDCs in precocial birds including Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) and mallard ducks (Anas platyrhynchos) as well as in wild altricial songbirds. Studies in Japanese quail characterized endogenous steroid hormone changes during development and have demonstrated that the developing embryo uses the yolk as a 'steroid hormone depot'. It appears that actual embryonic exposure is quantitatively lower than indicated by the treatment in egg injections and that the true amount of compound necessary for bioactivity may be quite low relative to the actual dosage delivered. Additionally, embryonic exposure to specific EDCs adversely affected sexual differentiation in quail, especially impacting male sexual behavior as well as neural systems, immune response, and thyroid hormones. Many of these studies considered single compounds; however, wild birds are exposed to complex mixtures and multiple compounds. We tested complex mixtures of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) at concentrations that bracketed those found in eggs in contaminated regions. Results indicated that the predictive value of the toxic equivalency (TEQ), based on comparative activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) relative to dioxin was not as accurate as expected. We discuss the potential of developing an endocrine disruption index (EDI) to bridge the inconsistencies observed between responses predicted by the TEQ and those observed in vivo following exposure to EDCs. Further, we will discuss how an EDI would complement the adverse outcome pathways analyses to consider the range of effects of endocrine disruptors in birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Ann Ottinger
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA.
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22
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Hong SB, Hong YC, Kim JW, Park EJ, Shin MS, Kim BN, Yoo HJ, Cho IH, Bhang SY, Cho SC. Bisphenol A in relation to behavior and learning of school-age children. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2013; 54:890-9. [PMID: 23445117 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.12050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bisphenol A (BPA) has been shown to affect brain and behavior in rodents and nonhuman primates, but there are few studies focusing on its relationship to human neurobehavior. We aimed to investigate the relationship between environmental exposure to BPA and childhood neurobehavior. METHODS Urinary BPA concentrations and behavioral and learning characteristics were assessed in a general population of 1,089 children, aged 8-11 years. The main outcome measures were the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and the Learning Disability Evaluation Scale (LDES). RESULTS Urinary levels of BPA were positively associated with the CBCL total problems score and negatively associated with the learning quotient from the LDES. The linear association with the CBCL anxiety/depression score and the quadratic association with the LDES listening score were significant after correction for multiple comparisons. CONCLUSIONS Environmental exposure to BPA might be associated with childhood behavioral and learning development. The results suggest possible nonmonotonic relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soon-Beom Hong
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Gioiosa L, Parmigiani S, Vom Saal FS, Palanza P. The effects of bisphenol A on emotional behavior depend upon the timing of exposure, age and gender in mice. Horm Behav 2013; 63:598-605. [PMID: 23470777 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2013.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2012] [Revised: 02/14/2013] [Accepted: 02/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Experimental evidence suggests that endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can permanently disrupt the development of sexually dimorphic behaviors and the structure of sexually dimorphic areas of the brain. EDC exposure has different effects depending on diverse factors, such as the timing and dose of the exposure, the maternal environment and the individual's age and sex. Among EDCs, bisphenol A (BPA) is one of the most studied because of its extensive use, which ranges from dentistry to food/drink packaging. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the behavioral effects of developmental exposure to a low dose of BPA with respect to the timing of the exposure, maternal environment, sex and age at testing. Starting from the last week of pregnancy to the first postpartum week, dams spontaneously drank either corn oil (control group) or a solution containing BPA (10 μg/kg bw/day). At birth, the litters were cross-fostered to different dams to differentiate among the effects of pre- and postnatal exposure. Pre- and postnatally exposed offspring underwent three diverse experimental paradigms for anxiety-related behaviors: as juveniles, a novelty test and at adulthood, both the free exploratory open field and elevated plus maze tests. At both testing ages, pre- and postnatally exposed females showed evidence of increased anxiety and were less prone to explore a novel environment relative to the control females, showing a behavioral profile more similar to control males than females. In this study, the direction of the behavioral changes was affected similarly by the pre- and postnatal exposures, resulting in a disruption of these sexually dimorphic behaviors, although with a greater effect associated with postnatal exposure primarily in females. Our findings indicate that non-reproductive, sexually dimorphic behaviors are sensitive to endocrine disruption during critical developmental periods-particularly the highly critical early neonatal stage. Combined with previous research, our study provides further evidence of the potential risks that even low doses of EDCs may pose to humans, with fetuses and infants being highly vulnerable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Gioiosa
- Unit of Behavioral Biology, Department of Neuroscience, University of Parma, Viale delle Scienze 11/A, 43100 Parma, Italy.
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Goodson JL, Kelly AM, Kingsbury MA. Evolving nonapeptide mechanisms of gregariousness and social diversity in birds. Horm Behav 2012; 61:239-50. [PMID: 22269661 PMCID: PMC3312996 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2012.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2011] [Revised: 01/06/2012] [Accepted: 01/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Of the major vertebrate taxa, Class Aves is the most extensively studied in relation to the evolution of social systems and behavior, largely because birds exhibit an incomparable balance of tractability, diversity, and cognitive complexity. In addition, like humans, most bird species are socially monogamous, exhibit biparental care, and conduct most of their social interactions through auditory and visual modalities. These qualities make birds attractive as research subjects, and also make them valuable for comparative studies of neuroendocrine mechanisms. This value has become increasingly apparent as more and more evidence shows that social behavior circuits of the basal forebrain and midbrain are deeply conserved (from an evolutionary perspective), and particularly similar in birds and mammals. Among the strongest similarities are the basic structures and functions of avian and mammalian nonapeptide systems, which include mesotocin (MT) and arginine vasotocin (VT) systems in birds, and the homologous oxytocin (OT) and vasopressin (VP) systems, respectively, in mammals. We here summarize these basic properties, and then describe a research program that has leveraged the social diversity of estrildid finches to gain insights into the nonapeptide mechanisms of grouping, a behavioral dimension that is not experimentally tractable in most other taxa. These studies have used five monogamous, biparental finch species that exhibit group sizes ranging from territorial male-female pairs to large flocks containing hundreds or thousands of birds. The results provide novel insights into the history of nonapeptide functions in amniote vertebrates, and yield remarkable clarity on the nonapeptide biology of dinosaurs and ancient mammals. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Oxytocin, Vasopressin, and Social Behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- James L Goodson
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
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26
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Frye CA, Bo E, Calamandrei G, Calzà L, Dessì-Fulgheri F, Fernández M, Fusani L, Kah O, Kajta M, Le Page Y, Patisaul HB, Venerosi A, Wojtowicz AK, Panzica GC. Endocrine disrupters: a review of some sources, effects, and mechanisms of actions on behaviour and neuroendocrine systems. J Neuroendocrinol 2012; 24:144-59. [PMID: 21951193 PMCID: PMC3245362 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2011.02229.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 273] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Some environmental contaminants interact with hormones and may exert adverse consequences as a result of their actions as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Exposure in people is typically a result of contamination of the food chain, inhalation of contaminated house dust or occupational exposure. EDCs include pesticides and herbicides (such as dichlorodiphenyl trichloroethane or its metabolites), methoxychlor, biocides, heat stabilisers and chemical catalysts (such as tributyltin), plastic contaminants (e.g. bisphenol A), pharmaceuticals (i.e. diethylstilbestrol; 17α-ethinylestradiol) or dietary components (such as phytoestrogens). The goal of this review is to address the sources, effects and actions of EDCs, with an emphasis on topics discussed at the International Congress on Steroids and the Nervous System. EDCs may alter reproductively-relevant or nonreproductive, sexually-dimorphic behaviours. In addition, EDCs may have significant effects on neurodevelopmental processes, influencing the morphology of sexually-dimorphic cerebral circuits. Exposure to EDCs is more dangerous if it occurs during specific 'critical periods' of life, such as intrauterine, perinatal, juvenile or puberty periods, when organisms are more sensitive to hormonal disruption, compared to other periods. However, exposure to EDCs in adulthood can also alter physiology. Several EDCs are xenoestrogens, which can alter serum lipid concentrations or metabolism enzymes that are necessary for converting cholesterol to steroid hormones. This can ultimately alter the production of oestradiol and/or other steroids. Finally, many EDCs may have actions via (or independent of) classic actions at cognate steroid receptors. EDCs may have effects through numerous other substrates, such as the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor and the retinoid X receptor, signal transduction pathways, calcium influx and/or neurotransmitter receptors. Thus, EDCs, from varied sources, may have organisational effects during development and/or activational effects in adulthood that influence sexually-dimorphic, reproductively-relevant processes or other functions, by mimicking, antagonising or altering steroidal actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Frye
- Department of Psychology, The University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA.
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Panzica GC, Balthazart J, Frye CA, Garcia-Segura LM, Herbison AE, Mensah-Nyagan AG, McCarthy MM, Melcangi RC. Milestones on Steroids and the Nervous System: 10 years of basic and translational research. J Neuroendocrinol 2012; 24:1-15. [PMID: 22188420 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2011.02265.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
During the last 10 years, the conference on 'Steroids and Nervous System' held in Torino (Italy) has been an important international point of discussion for scientists involved in this exciting and expanding research field. The present review aims to recapitulate the main topics that have been presented through the various meetings. Two broad areas have been explored: the impact of gonadal hormones on brain circuits and behaviour, as well as the mechanism of action of neuroactive steroids. Relationships among steroids, brain and behaviour, the sexual differentiation of the brain and the impact of gonadal hormones, the interactions of exogenous steroidal molecules (endocrine disrupters) with neural circuits and behaviour, and how gonadal steroids modulate the behaviour of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone neurones, have been the topics of several lectures and symposia during this series of meetings. At the same time, many contributions have been dedicated to the biosynthetic pathways, the physiopathological relevance of neurosteroids, the demonstration of the cellular localisation of different enzymes involved in neurosteroidogenesis, the mechanisms by which steroids may exert some of their effects, both the classical and nonclassical actions of different steroids, the role of neuroactive steroids on neurodegeneration, neuroprotection, and the response of the neural tissue to injury. In these 10 years, this field has significantly advanced and neuroactive steroids have emerged as new potential therapeutic tools to counteract neurodegenerative events.
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Affiliation(s)
- G C Panzica
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Anatomy, Pharmacology and Forensic Medicine, Neuroscience Institute of Turin (NIT), University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
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Golub MS, Wu KL, Kaufman FL, Li LH, Moran-Messen F, Zeise L, Alexeeff GV, Donald JM. Bisphenol A: developmental toxicity from early prenatal exposure. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 89:441-66. [PMID: 21136531 DOI: 10.1002/bdrb.20275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) exposure has been documented in pregnant women, but consequences for development are not yet widely studied in human populations. This review presents research on the consequences for offspring of BPA exposure during pregnancy. Extensive work in laboratory rodents has evaluated survival and growth of the conceptus, interference with embryonic programs of development, morphological sex differentiation, sex differentiation of the brain and behavior, immune responsiveness, and mechanism of action. Sensitive measures include RAR, aryl hydrocarbon receptor, and Hox A10 gene expression, anogenital distance, sex differentiation of affective and exploratory behavior, and immune hyperresponsiveness. Many BPA effects are reported at low doses (10-50 µg/kg d range) by the oral route of administration. At high doses (>500,000 µg/kg d) fetal viability is compromised. Much of the work has centered around the implications of the estrogenic actions of this agent. Some work related to thyroid mechanism of action has also been explored. BPA research has actively integrated current knowledge of developmental biology, concepts of endocrine disruption, and toxicological research to provide a basis for human health risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mari S Golub
- Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, Reproductive and Cancer Hazard Assessment Branch, Sacramento, California, USA.
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Panzica GC, Bo E, Martini MA, Miceli D, Mura E, Viglietti-Panzica C, Gotti S. Neuropeptides and enzymes are targets for the action of endocrine disrupting chemicals in the vertebrate brain. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2011; 14:449-72. [PMID: 21790321 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2011.578562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDC) are molecules that interfere with endocrine signaling pathways and produce adverse consequences on animal and human physiology, such as infertility or behavioral alterations. Some EDC act through binding to androgen or/and estrogen receptors primarily operating through a genomic mechanism regulating gene expression. This mechanism of action may induce profound developmental adverse effects, and the major targets of the EDC action are the gene products, i.e., mRNAs inducing the synthesis of various peptidic molecules, which include neuropeptides and enzymes related to neurotransmitters syntheses. Available immunohistochemical data on some of the systems that are affected by EDC in lower and higher vertebrates are detailed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- G C Panzica
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Anatomy, Pharmacology, and Forensic Medicine, Neuroscience Institute of Turin (NIT), University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
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Waye A, Trudeau VL. Neuroendocrine disruption: more than hormones are upset. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2011; 14:270-91. [PMID: 21790312 PMCID: PMC3173749 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2011.578273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Only a small proportion of the published research on endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDC) directly examined effects on neuroendocrine processes. There is an expanding body of evidence that anthropogenic chemicals exert effects on neuroendocrine systems and that these changes might impact peripheral organ systems and physiological processes. Neuroendocrine disruption extends the concept of endocrine disruption to include the full breadth of integrative physiology (i.e., more than hormones are upset). Pollutants may also disrupt numerous other neurochemical pathways to affect an animal's capacity to reproduce, develop and grow, or deal with stress and other challenges. Several examples are presented in this review, from both vertebrates and invertebrates, illustrating that diverse environmental pollutants including pharmaceuticals, organochlorine pesticides, and industrial contaminants have the potential to disrupt neuroendocrine control mechanisms. While most investigations on EDC are carried out with vertebrate models, an attempt is also made to highlight the importance of research on invertebrate neuroendocrine disruption. The neurophysiology of many invertebrates is well described and many of their neurotransmitters are similar or identical to those in vertebrates; therefore, lessons learned from one group of organisms may help us understand potential adverse effects in others. This review argues for the adoption of systems biology and integrative physiology to address the effects of EDC. Effects of pulp and paper mill effluents on fish reproduction are a good example of where relatively narrow hypothesis testing strategies (e.g., whether or not pollutants are sex steroid mimics) have only partially solved a major problem in environmental biology. It is clear that a global, integrative physiological approach, including improved understanding of neuroendocrine control mechanisms, is warranted to fully understand the impacts of pulp and paper mill effluents. Neuroendocrine disruptors are defined as pollutants in the environment that are capable of acting as agonists/antagonists or modulators of the synthesis and/or metabolism of neuropeptides, neurotransmitters, or neurohormones, which subsequently alter diverse physiological, behavioral, or hormonal processes to affect an animal's capacity to reproduce, develop and grow, or deal with stress and other challenges. By adopting a definition of neuroendocrine disruption that encompasses both direct physiological targets and their indirect downstream effects, from the level of the individual to the ecosystem, a more comprehensive picture of the consequences of environmentally relevant EDC exposure may emerge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Waye
- Centre for Advanced Research in Environmental Genomics, Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vance L. Trudeau
- Centre for Advanced Research in Environmental Genomics, Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Kodavanti PRS, Curras-Collazo MC. Neuroendocrine actions of organohalogens: thyroid hormones, arginine vasopressin, and neuroplasticity. Front Neuroendocrinol 2010; 31:479-96. [PMID: 20609372 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2010.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2010] [Revised: 06/22/2010] [Accepted: 06/25/2010] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Organohalogen compounds are global environmental pollutants. They are highly persistent, bioaccumulative, and cause adverse effects in humans and wildlife. Because of the widespread use of these organohalogens in household items and consumer products, indoor contamination may be a significant source of human exposure, especially for children. One significant concern with regard to health effects associated with exposure to organohalogens is endocrine disruption. This review focuses on PCBs and PBDEs as old and new organohalogens, respectively, and their effects on two neuroendocrine systems; thyroid hormones and the arginine vasopressin system (AVP). Regarding neuroendocrine effects of organohalogens, there is considerable information on the thyroid system as a target and evidence is now accumulating that the AVP system and associated functions are also susceptible to disruption. AVP-mediated functions such as osmoregulation, cardiovascular function as well as social behavior, sexual function and learning/memory are discussed. For both thyroid and AVP systems, the timing of exposure seems to play a major role in the outcome of adverse effects. The mechanism of organohalogen action is well understood for the thyroid system. In comparison, this aspect is understudied in the AVP system but some similarities in neural processes, shown to be targeted by these pollutants, serve as promising possibilities for study. One challenge in understanding modes of action within neuroendocrine systems is their complexity stemming, in part, from interdependent levels of organization. Further, because of the interplay between neuroendocrine and neural functions and behavior, further investigation into organohalogen-mediated effects is warranted and may yield insights with wider scope. Indeed, the current literature provides scattered evidence regarding the role of organohalogen-induced neuroendocrine disruption in the neuroplasticity related to both learning functions and brain structure but future studies are needed to establish the role of endocrine disruption in nervous system function and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prasada Rao S Kodavanti
- Neurotoxicology Branch, Toxicity Assessment Division, B 105-06, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA.
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Bisphenol A interferes with synaptic remodeling. Front Neuroendocrinol 2010; 31:519-30. [PMID: 20609373 PMCID: PMC2964437 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2010.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2010] [Revised: 06/11/2010] [Accepted: 06/25/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The potential adverse effects of Bisphenol A (BPA), a synthetic xenoestrogen, have long been debated. Although standard toxicology tests have revealed no harmful effects, recent research highlighted what was missed so far: BPA-induced alterations in the nervous system. Since 2004, our laboratory has been investigating one of the central effects of BPA, which is interference with gonadal steroid-induced synaptogenesis and the resulting loss of spine synapses. We have shown in both rats and nonhuman primates that BPA completely negates the ∼ 70-100% increase in the number of hippocampal and prefrontal spine synapses induced by both estrogens and androgens. Synaptic loss of this magnitude may have significant consequences, potentially causing cognitive decline, depression, and schizophrenia, to mention those that our laboratory has shown to be associated with synaptic loss. Finally, we discuss why children may particularly be vulnerable to BPA, which represents future direction of research in our laboratory.
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Martini M, Miceli D, Gotti S, Viglietti-Panzica C, Fissore E, Palanza P, Panzica G. Effects of perinatal administration of Bisphenol A on the neuronal nitric oxide synthase expressing system in the hypothalamus and limbic system of CD1 mice. J Neuroendocrinol 2010; 22:1004-12. [PMID: 20561153 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2010.02043.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a well-known plastic-derived pollutant that can bind to oestrogen receptors and is considered an endocrine-disrupting chemical. Its impact on different behaviours in rodents has been largely investigated, however, only a few data are available on its effects upon neural circuits. In the present study, we investigated the long-term effects of early exposure of mice of both sexes to BPA on the nitrinergic system, one of the neural systems involved in the control of sexual behaviour and under the control of gonadal hormones. Mice of both sexes were exposed for eight prenatal and eight postnatal days to BPA that was administered to the mothers. The maternally-exposed mice were sacrificed at the age of 2 months and their brains were sectioned and immunohistochemically treated for the detection of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS). Significant effects of BPA exposure were detected for the number of immunoreactive cells in the medial preoptic nucleus and in the ventromedial subdivision of the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, in a sex-oriented and dose-dependent way. These results indicate that BPA has a powerful effect on specific portions of the nNOS-immunoreactive system belonging to the accessory olfactory system that are particularly important for the control of sexual behaviour. In addition, they confirm that perinatal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, in particular to BPA, may have a high impact on the organisation of specific neural pathways that can later affect complex behaviours and functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Martini
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Department of Anatomy, Pharmacology and Forensic Medicine, Neuroscience Institute of Turin (NIT), University of Torino, Torino, Italy
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Prenatal Exposure to PFOS or PFOA Alters Motor Function in Mice in a Sex-Related Manner. Neurotox Res 2010; 19:452-61. [DOI: 10.1007/s12640-010-9200-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2010] [Revised: 05/12/2010] [Accepted: 05/14/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Sanfilippo K, Pinto B, Colombini MP, Bartolucci U, Reali D. Determination of trace endocrine disruptors in ultrapure water for laboratory use by the yeast estrogen screen (YES) and chemical analysis (GC/MS). J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2010; 878:1190-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2010.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2009] [Revised: 03/11/2010] [Accepted: 03/12/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Mattsson A, Brunström B. Effects on differentiation of reproductive organs and sexual behaviour in Japanese quail by excessive embryonic ERalpha activation. Reprod Fertil Dev 2010; 22:416-25. [PMID: 20047727 DOI: 10.1071/rd08293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2008] [Accepted: 08/11/2009] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure of Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) embryos to oestrogenic substances disrupts sexual differentiation of the reproductive tract of both sexes and impairs the copulatory behaviour of the adult male. To examine whether these effects can be induced by selective activation of oestrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha), Japanese quail eggs were injected with various doses of the selective ERalpha agonist 16alpha-lactone-oestradiol (16alpha-LE(2)). The natural oestrogen 17beta-oestradiol (E(2)) was used as a positive control. Both 16alpha-LE(2) and E(2) induced formation of an ovary-like cortex in the left testis (ovotestis) and reduced the size of the right testis in male embryos. The asymmetry in testis size remained in sexually mature males. Both substances induced retention and malformation of the Müllerian ducts in embryos of both sexes and malformed oviducts in juveniles. Male copulatory behaviour was suppressed by embryonic exposure to E(2) and the highest dose of 16alpha-LE(2). However, the lower dose of 16alpha-LE(2), which markedly affected development of the reproductive organs, was without effects on behaviour. It can therefore not be excluded that the behavioural demasculinisation at the 100-fold higher dose involved cross-activation of oestrogen receptor beta (ERbeta). In conclusion, our results suggest that oestrogen-induced disruption of reproductive organ development in Japanese quail can be mediated via ERalpha, whereas the role of ERalpha in demasculinisation of copulatory behaviour remains to be clarified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mattsson
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18A, SE-75236 Uppsala, Sweden
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Abstract
After five editions, the congress on "Steroids and Nervous System" held in Torino, Italy, represents an important international event for researchers involved in this field aimed to recapitulate mechanisms, physiological and pharmacological effects of neuroactive steroids. The present review introduces manuscripts collected in this supplement issue which are based on new interesting findings such as the influence of sex steroids on cannabinoid-regulated biology, the role of steroids in pain, the importance of co-regulators in steroidal mechanisms and the understanding of new non classical mechanism, the emerging role of vitamin D as a neuroactive steroid and the pathogenetic mechanisms mediated by glucocorticoid receptors. Finally, we have integrated these aspects with an update on some of the several and important observations recently published on this hot topic.
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Ottinger MA, Lavoie ET, Abdelnabi M, Quinn MJ, Marcell A, Dean K. An overview of dioxin-like compounds, PCB, and pesticide exposures associated with sexual differentiation of neuroendocrine systems, fluctuating asymmetry, and behavioral effects in birds. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH. PART C, ENVIRONMENTAL CARCINOGENESIS & ECOTOXICOLOGY REVIEWS 2009; 27:286-300. [PMID: 19953400 DOI: 10.1080/10590500903310229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Dioxin, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and pesticides impact neural systems in birds due to interference with sexual differentiation. Early endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC) effects may delay maturation and have long-term effects on lifetime reproduction, especially in precocial birds that complete sexual differentiation prior to hatch. Semi-altricial and altricial species appear more resilient to EDC effects and show a gradient in sensitivity, especially in the neuroplastic song system. Embryonic steroid exposure occurs via maternally deposited steroids followed by embryo produced hormones; EDCs potentially affect these developing systems. As such, EDCs can impact lifelong fitness by acting on neural systems that regulate reproduction, metabolism, and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Ann Ottinger
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA.
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Ottinger MA, Lavoie ET, Thompson N, Bohannon M, Dean K, Quinn MJ. Is the gonadotropin releasing hormone system vulnerable to endocrine disruption in birds? Gen Comp Endocrinol 2009; 163:104-8. [PMID: 19457435 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2009.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2009] [Revised: 05/09/2009] [Accepted: 05/12/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) from a variety of sources occur widely in the environment, but relationships between exposure to EDCs and long term effects on bird populations can be difficult to prove. Embryonic exposure to EDCs may be particularly detrimental, with potential long-term effects on reproduction and ultimately individual fitness. Because many EDCs may have subtle sublethal effects, it is necessary to establish sensitive end points as biomarkers of EDC exposure in birds. Because the effects of EDCs may be both short- and long-term, it is important to determine if embryonic exposure impacts sexual differentiation and development of the reproductive axis in hatchlings and if there are effects on reproductive function in adults. Our studies have focused on the effects of estrogen- and androgen-active EDCs on the hypothalamic gonadotropin releasing hormone-I (GnRH-I) system in an avian model of precocial species, the Japanese quail. Estrogen- or androgen-active EDCs were administered between 0 and embryonic day 4, and hypothalamic GnRH-I was measured in hatchlings and adults. Treatment with vinclozolin and PCB126 depressed the concentration of embryonic GnRH-I peptide while methoxyclor had an inconsistent stimulatory effect. Treatment with atrazine or trenbolone had no significant effects on hypothalamic GnRH-I in adults. Overall these observations support the view that the developing avian GnRH-I neural system may be vulnerable to EDCs with potential to alter lifelong reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Ann Ottinger
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA.
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40
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Brunström B, Axelsson J, Mattsson A, Halldin K. Effects of estrogens on sex differentiation in Japanese quail and chicken. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2009; 163:97-103. [PMID: 19523394 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2009.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2008] [Revised: 12/12/2008] [Accepted: 01/14/2009] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen production by the female avian embryo induces development of a female phenotype of the reproductive organs whereas the low estrogen concentration in the male embryo results in a male phenotype. Treatment of female embryos with exogenous estrogens disrupts Müllerian duct development resulting in malformations and impaired oviductal function. Exposure of male embryos to estrogens results in ovotestis formation and persisting Müllerian ducts in the embryos and testicular malformations, reduced semen production and partially developed oviducts in the adult bird. Furthermore, studies in Japanese quail show that the male copulatory behavior is impaired by embryonic estrogen treatment. Results from our experiments with selective agonists for ERalpha and ERbeta suggest that the effects of estrogens on the reproductive organs are mediated via activation of ERalpha. Abundant expression of ERalpha mRNA was shown in gonads and Müllerian ducts of early Japanese quail embryos. Both ERalpha and ERbeta transcripts were detected by real-time PCR in early embryo brains of Japanese quail indicating that both receptors may be involved in sex differentiation of the brain. However, in 9-day-old quail embryo brains in situ hybridization showed expression of ERbeta mRNA, but not of ERalpha mRNA, in the medial preoptic nucleus (POM) and the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BSTm), areas implicated in copulatory behavior of adult male quail. Furthermore, embryonic treatment with the selective ERalpha agonist propyl pyrazol triol (PPT) had no effect on the male copulatory behavior. These results suggest that ERbeta may be important for the effects of estrogens on brain differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Björn Brunström
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18A, SE-75236 Uppsala, Sweden.
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Panzica GC, Mura E, Miceli D, Martini MA, Gotti S, Viglietti-Panzica C. Effects of Xenoestrogens on the Differentiation of Behaviorally Relevant Neural Circuits in Higher Vertebrates. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2009; 1163:271-8. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2008.03628.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Mura E, Barale C, Quinn MJ, Panzica G, Ottinger MA, Viglietti-Panzica C. Organizational effects of DDE on brain vasotocin system in male Japanese quail. Neurotoxicology 2009; 30:479-84. [PMID: 19442834 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2009.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2008] [Revised: 12/22/2008] [Accepted: 01/14/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
p,p'-DDE, or ethylene, 1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl), is the main metabolite of the pesticide DDT, or 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl) ethane. It is an androgen receptor antagonist and testosterone hydroxylase modulator that is also more persistent than its parent compound. In a previous study we demonstrated that embryonic exposure to different doses of p,p'-DDE accelerated onset of puberty in females and reduced male reproductive behavior. In the present study we investigated the long-term effects of the exposure to p,p'-DDE on the differentiation of male Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) limbic circuits related to male copulatory behavior: the parvocellular vasotocin (VT) system. We observed a decrease in the density of VT-immunoreactive fibers within the medial preoptic nucleus, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, and lateral septum in p,p'-DDE-treated birds, while no differences could be detected in the magnocellular neurons of the supraoptic nucleus. In particular the lowest dose of p,p'-DDE causes the highest decrease of VT immunoreactivity. This study provides further evidence for VT system sensitivity towards endocrine disrupting chemicals and demonstrates that the VT system may be an appropriate and sensitive biomarker for early p,p'-DDE exposure in birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Mura
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, Dept. Anatomy, Pharmacology, and Forensic Medicine, Neuroscience Institute of Torino, University of Torino, Italy
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Male lactation: why, why not and is it care? Trends Ecol Evol 2009; 24:80-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2008.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2008] [Revised: 09/24/2008] [Accepted: 09/25/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Transformation of 5-ene steroids by the fungus Aspergillus tamarii KITA: mixed molecular fate in lactonization and hydroxylation pathways with identification of a putative 3beta-hydroxy-steroid dehydrogenase/Delta5-Delta4 isomerase pathway. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids 2008; 1791:110-7. [PMID: 19136076 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2008.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2008] [Revised: 12/02/2008] [Accepted: 12/03/2008] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The fungus Aspergillus tamarii metabolizes progesterone to testololactone in high yield through a sequential four step enzymatic pathway which, has demonstrated flexibility in handling a range of steroidal probes. These substrates have revealed that subtle changes in the molecular structure of the steroid lead to significant changes in route of metabolism. It was therefore of interest to determine the metabolism of a range of 5-ene containing steroidal substrates. Remarkably the primary route of 5-ene steroid metabolism involved a 3beta-hydroxy-steroid dehydrogenase/Delta(5)-Delta(4) isomerase (3beta-HSD/isomerase) enzyme(s), generating 3-one-4-ene functionality and identified for the first time in a fungus with the ability to handle both dehydroepiansdrosterone (DHEA) as well as C-17 side-chain containing compounds such as pregnenolone and 3beta-hydroxy-16alpha,17alpha-epoxypregn-5-en-20-one. Uniquely in all the steroids tested, 3beta-HSD/isomerase activity only occurred following lactonization of the steroidal ring-D. Presence of C-7 allylic hydroxylation, in either epimeric form, inhibited 3beta-HSD/isomerase activity and of the substrates tested, was only observed with DHEA and its 13alpha-methyl analogue. In contrast to previous studies of fungi with 3beta-HSD/isomerase activity DHEA could also enter a minor hydroxylation pathway. Pregnenolone and 3beta-hydroxy-16alpha,17alpha-epoxypregn-5-en-20-one were metabolized solely through the putative 3beta-HSD/isomerase pathway, indicating that a 17beta-methyl ketone functionality inhibits allylic oxidation at C-7. The presence of the 3beta-HSD/isomerase in A. tamarii and the transformation results obtained in this study highlight an important potential role that fungi may have in the generation of environmental androgens.
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Mattsson A, Mura E, Brunström B, Panzica G, Halldin K. Selective activation of estrogen receptor alpha in Japanese quail embryos affects reproductive organ differentiation but not the male sexual behavior or the parvocellular vasotocin system. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2008; 159:150-7. [PMID: 18805421 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2008.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2008] [Revised: 08/22/2008] [Accepted: 08/25/2008] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Estradiol is crucial for normal female differentiation in birds. Developmental effects of estrogen are believed to be mediated by slow genomic actions through the nuclear estrogen receptors alpha (ERalpha) and/or beta (ERbeta). Consequently, exogenous compounds that interfere with the ERs may disrupt sexual differentiation of the reproductive organs and of the brain areas controlling sexual behaviors. The present study was conducted to elucidate the role of ERalpha in xenoestrogen-induced disruption of sexual differentiation in the Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica). Embryonic treatment with the synthetic estrogen, ethinylestradiol (EE(2)), and with the ERalpha-selective agonist, propyl pyrazole triol (PPT), induced oviductal malformations in females and retention of oviducts in males. Both EE(2) and PPT caused weight asymmetry between left and right testes and reduced the cloacal gland area in males. EE(2) significantly reduced the copulatory behavior in males whereas PPT had no effect on this behavior. The sexually dimorphic parvocellular vasotocin-immunoreactive (VT-ir) system in the medial preoptic nucleus (POM), the lateral septum (SL) and the medial part of the nucleus of the stria terminalis (BSTm), was not affected by EE(2) or PPT. Our results suggest that xenoestrogen-induced effects on reproductive organ differentiation are mediated by ERalpha, whereas demasculinization of male copulatory behavior and the VT-ir system appears not to be induced by activation of ERalpha alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mattsson
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18A, SE-75236 Uppsala, Sweden.
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Panzica GC, Melcangi RC. The endocrine nervous system: source and target for neuroactive steroids. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 57:271-6. [PMID: 18355582 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresrev.2008.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
For a long time the endocrine brain was considered to the hypothalamus and to its special relationships with the hypophysis. The discovery of the wide distribution of steroid hormone receptors, as well as that of the possibility of metabolizing or synthesizing steroids by neural cells (neuroactive steroids), suggest, on the contrary, that interactions among steroids and nervous system are key points of the regulatory processes in the central and peripheral nervous system in normal conditions as well as in pathological conditions. In this brief overview we illustrate a few examples of these relationships with major emphasis on papers collected in this special issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- G C Panzica
- Department of Anatomy, Pharmacology and Forensic Medicine and Neuroscience Institute of Turin, Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, University of Torino, C.so M. D'Azeglio 52, 10126 Torino, Italy.
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