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Ross M, Corimanya JL, Kaplan R, Kilgour DAV, Linkous CR, Guindre-Parker S. Elevated lead (Pb) in urban European starling (Sturnus vulgaris) feathers is not correlated to physiology or behavior. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:168932. [PMID: 38048995 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
Urbanization is rapidly changing the environment and creating new challenges in the lives of animals across the globe. Anthropogenic contaminants-like heavy metals-can persist within the environment for prolonged periods of time and present a widespread problem for those living near contaminated areas. Lead (Pb) was a commonly used heavy metal that continues to threaten the health of all organisms despite being phased out, especially in urban areas where historical use was more common. In this study, a common urban-adapter, the European starling (Sturnus vulgaris), was trapped to explore whether feather Pb burden is greater in birds from urban habitats than rural habitats, as well as whether Pb burdens were correlated with behavior, physiology, and feather development. Across four sites (two rural and two urban), soil Pb concentrations were measured and 197 free-living starlings were captured to measure feather Pb concentrations. Using linear mixed models, this study found that urban starling nestlings had elevated feather Pb burdens compared to rural nestlings. In contrast, there was no correlation between Pb and urbanization in adult birds whose exposure to Pb may reflect a larger spatial range compared to nestlings. For both nestlings and adults, feather Pb was uncorrelated to corticosterone, testosterone, aggressive behavior, or feather growth rates. These findings suggest that starlings may be a useful biomonitoring tool to detect Pb in the local environment, however, the age and spatial range of birds is a critical consideration in applying this tool. Further work is needed to understand the intricate relationship between heavy metals, behavior, morphological development, and physiology in free-living organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Ross
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - Joanna L Corimanya
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA; Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Rachel Kaplan
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA
| | - Denyelle A V Kilgour
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA; Department of Biology, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA
| | - Courtney R Linkous
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA
| | - Sarah Guindre-Parker
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA.
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2
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Lonstein JS, Vitale EM, Olekanma D, McLocklin A, Pence N, Bredewold R, Veenema AH, Johnson AW, Burt SA. Anxiety, aggression, reward sensitivity, and forebrain dopamine receptor expression in a laboratory rat model of early-life disadvantage. Dev Psychobiol 2023; 65:e22421. [PMID: 37860907 DOI: 10.1002/dev.22421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Despite early-life disadvantage (ELD) in humans being a highly heterogenous construct, it consistently predicts negative neurobehavioral outcomes. The numerous environmental contributors and neural mechanisms underlying ELD remain unclear, though. We used a laboratory rat model to evaluate the effects of limited resources and/or heavy metal exposure on mothers and their adult male and female offspring. Dams and litters were chronically exposed to restricted (1-cm deep) or ample (4-cm deep) home cage bedding postpartum, with or without lead acetate (0.1%) in their drinking water from insemination through 1-week postweaning. Restricted-bedding mothers showed more pup-directed behaviors and behavioral fragmentation, while lead-exposed mothers showed more nestbuilding. Restricted bedding-raised male offspring showed higher anxiety and aggression. Either restricted bedding or lead exposure impaired goal-directed performance in a reinforcer devaluation task in females, whereas restricted bedding alone disrupted it in males. Lead exposure, but not limited bedding, also reduced sucrose reward sensitivity in a progressive ratio task in females. D1 and D2 receptor mRNA in the medial prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens (NAc) were each affected by the early-life treatments and differently between the sexes. Most notably, adult males (but not females) exposed to both early-life treatments had greatly increased D1 receptor mRNA in the NAc core. These results illuminate neural mechanisms through which ELD threatens neurobehavioral development and highlight forebrain dopamine as a factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph S Lonstein
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Erika M Vitale
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Doris Olekanma
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Andrew McLocklin
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Nathan Pence
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Remco Bredewold
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Alexa H Veenema
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Alexander W Johnson
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - S Alexandra Burt
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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3
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Mohanraj N, Joshi NS, Poulose R, Patil RR, Santhoshkumar R, Kumar A, Waghmare GP, Saha AK, Haider SZ, Markandeya YS, Dey G, Rao LT, Govindaraj P, Mehta B. A proteomic study to unveil lead toxicity-induced memory impairments invoked by synaptic dysregulation. Toxicol Rep 2022; 9:1501-1513. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2022.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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4
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Wright JP, Lanphear BP, Dietrich KN, Bolger M, Tully L, Cecil KM, Sacarellos C. Developmental lead exposure and adult criminal behavior: A 30-year prospective birth cohort study. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2021; 85:106960. [PMID: 33617950 PMCID: PMC8582283 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2021.106960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Using a variety of research designs and measures of lead absorption, numerous studies link childhood lead exposure to a range of cognitive and behavioral deficits, including low IQ, impulsivity, juvenile delinquency, and criminal behavior in adolescence and early adulthood. In this study, we tested the association between multiple measures of blood lead concentration assessed in childhood with criminal behavior in adulthood and across the life-course. Prospective data from the Cincinnati Lead Study (CLS) included blood lead measures quarterly across the first 78 months of life and the number of times a person was arrested across the life-course (from age 18 to 33 years) and in later adulthood (age 27 to 33 years). Childhood blood lead concentration prospectively predicted variation in adult arrests and arrests over the life-course, indicating lead absorption is implicated in the etiology of crime-especially in geographic areas where environmental sources of lead are more prevalent and concentrated. Efforts to decrease lead exposure in both developed and developing countries should be part of a comprehensive strategy to reduce social dislocation and crime.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Paul Wright
- School of Criminal Justice, University of Cincinnati, OH 45221, United States of America.
| | - Bruce P Lanphear
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University and Child and Family Research Institute, British Columbia Children's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
| | - Kim N Dietrich
- Department of Environmental Health, Division of Epidemiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, United States of America.
| | - Michelle Bolger
- Department of Social Science, Criminal Justice Program, DeSales University, Center Valley, PA 18034, United States of America.
| | - Lisa Tully
- Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, United States of America.
| | - Kim M Cecil
- Department of Environmental Health, Division of Epidemiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, United States of America; Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, United States of America.
| | - Catherine Sacarellos
- School of Criminal Justice, University of Cincinnati, OH 45221, United States of America
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5
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Grunst AS, Grunst ML, Daem N, Pinxten R, Bervoets L, Eens M. An Important Personality Trait Varies with Blood and Plumage Metal Concentrations in a Free-Living Songbird. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2019; 53:10487-10496. [PMID: 31373485 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.9b03548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Metal pollution is a global problem, which threatens to seriously disrupt behavioral patterns and health in humans and wildlife. Nonetheless, little is known regarding how exposure to metal pollution affects animal personalities, as defined by repeatable among individual differences in behavior. We used a large dataset to investigate the relationship between individual blood and feather metal concentrations and three personality traits (exploration behavior, territorial aggressiveness, and aggressiveness during nest defense) in great tits (Parus major), a model species for animal personality research. We previously demonstrated slower exploration behavior at highly polluted study sites, where exposure to lead, cadmium, and arsenic is high. Here, we demonstrate the across-year repeatability of exploration behavior and aggressiveness during nest defense, providing strong evidence for the existence of personalities in our populations. Furthermore, we demonstrate that individuals with high blood lead concentrations and high concentrations of multiple metals in the feathers exhibit slower exploration behavior but no differences in territorial aggressiveness or nest defense relative to less exposed birds. The mechanism underlying the relationship between metal exposure and exploration behavior remains to be determined but could involve neurotoxic effects. Our study highlights that metal pollution could have underappreciated effects on animal personalities, with implications for individual fitness and societal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea S Grunst
- Department of Biology, Behavioural Ecology and Ecophysiology Group , University of Antwerp , 2610 Wilrijk , Belgium
| | - Melissa L Grunst
- Department of Biology, Behavioural Ecology and Ecophysiology Group , University of Antwerp , 2610 Wilrijk , Belgium
| | - Natasha Daem
- Department of Biology, Behavioural Ecology and Ecophysiology Group , University of Antwerp , 2610 Wilrijk , Belgium
| | - Rianne Pinxten
- Department of Biology, Behavioural Ecology and Ecophysiology Group , University of Antwerp , 2610 Wilrijk , Belgium
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Antwerp School of Education , University of Antwerp , 2000 Antwerp , Belgium
| | - Lieven Bervoets
- Department of Biology, Systemic Physiological and Ecotoxicological Research Group , University of Antwerp , 2020 Antwerp , Belgium
| | - Marcel Eens
- Department of Biology, Behavioural Ecology and Ecophysiology Group , University of Antwerp , 2610 Wilrijk , Belgium
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6
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McClelland SC, Durães Ribeiro R, Mielke HW, Finkelstein ME, Gonzales CR, Jones JA, Komdeur J, Derryberry E, Saltzberg EB, Karubian J. Sub-lethal exposure to lead is associated with heightened aggression in an urban songbird. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 654:593-603. [PMID: 30447598 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.11.145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Revised: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Many urban areas have elevated soil lead concentrations due to prior large-scale use of lead in products such as paint and automobile gasoline. This presents a potential problem for the growing numbers of wildlife living in urbanized areas as lead exposure is known to affect multiple physiological systems, including the nervous system, in vertebrate species. In humans and laboratory animals, low-level lead exposure is associated with neurological impairment, but less is known about how lead may affect the behavior of urban wildlife. We focused on the Northern Mockingbird Mimus polyglottos, a common, omnivorous North American songbird, to gain insights into how lead may affect the physiology and behavior of urban wildlife. We predicted that birds living in neighborhoods with high soil lead concentrations would (a) exhibit elevated lead concentrations in their blood and feathers, (b) exhibit lower body condition, (c) exhibit less diverse and consistent vocal repertoires, and (d) behave more aggressively during simulated conspecific territorial intrusions compared to birds living in neighborhoods with lower soil lead concentrations. Controlling for other habitat differences, we found that birds from areas of high soil lead had elevated lead concentrations in blood and feathers, but found no differences in body condition or vocal repertoires. However, birds from high lead areas responded more aggressively during simulated intrusions. These findings indicate that sub-lethal lead exposure may be common among wildlife living in urban areas, and that this exposure is associated with increased aggression. Better understanding of the extent of the relationship between lead exposure and aggression and the consequences this could have for survival and reproduction of wild animals are clear priorities for future work in this and other urban ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie C McClelland
- Behavioural Ecology and Physiology Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, the Netherlands; School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham TW20 0EX, UK.
| | - Renata Durães Ribeiro
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Howard W Mielke
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Myra E Finkelstein
- Microbiology and Environmental Toxicology Department, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
| | | | - John Anthony Jones
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Jan Komdeur
- Behavioural Ecology and Physiology Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Elizabeth Derryberry
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA; Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Emma B Saltzberg
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Jordan Karubian
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
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7
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Soto M, Lewis R, Curtis JT. Chronic exposure to inorganic mercury alters stress responses in male prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster). Horm Behav 2019; 109:53-55. [PMID: 30769014 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2019.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Male, but not female, prairie voles that experience chronic exposure to inorganic mercury display aberrant social behavior - avoiding unfamiliar conspecifics rather than approaching them. The mechanisms that underlie such behavioral changes are unknown, but likely involve the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. We tested this hypothesis by providing voles of both sexes with mercury chloride in their drinking water for ten weeks and then staging same-sex dyadic encounters after which plasma was assayed for corticosterone as an index of HPA activity. Consistent with sex-specific behavioral responses previously reported, mercury-treated males had lower plasma corticosterone after social encounters than did similarly-treated females or males that consumed normal drinking water. The results suggest that mercury-treated males may be less inclined toward social engagement with conspecifics due to reduced HPA activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marissa Soto
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK 74107, United States of America
| | - Robert Lewis
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK 74107, United States of America
| | - J Thomas Curtis
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK 74107, United States of America.
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8
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Jaffee SR. Lead exposure and child maltreatment as models for how to conceptualize early-in-life risk factors for violence. Infant Ment Health J 2019; 40:23-38. [DOI: 10.1002/imhj.21756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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9
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Grunst AS, Grunst ML, Thys B, Raap T, Daem N, Pinxten R, Eens M. Variation in personality traits across a metal pollution gradient in a free-living songbird. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 630:668-678. [PMID: 29494975 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.02.191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Revised: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Anthropogenic contaminants could alter traits central to animal behavioral types, or personalities, including aggressiveness, boldness and activity level. Lead and other toxic metals are persistent inorganic pollutants that affect organisms worldwide. Metal exposure can alter behavior by affecting neurology, endocrinology, and health. However, the direction and magnitude of the behavioral effects of metal exposure remain equivocal. Moreover, the degree to which metal exposure simultaneously affects suites of correlated behavioral traits (behavioral syndromes) that are controlled by common mechanisms remains unclear, with most studies focusing on single behaviors. Using a model species for personality variation, the great tit (Parus major), we explored differences in multiple behavioral traits across a pollution gradient where levels of metals, especially lead and cadmium, are elevated close to a smelter. We employed the novel environment exploration test, a proxy for variation in personality type, and also measured territorial aggressiveness and nest defense behavior. At polluted sites birds of both sexes displayed slower exploration behavior, which could reflect impaired neurological or physiological function. Territorial aggression and nest defense behavior were individually consistent, but did not vary with proximity to the smelter, suggesting that metal exposure does not concurrently affect exploration and aggression. Rather, exploration behavior appears more sensitive to metal pollution. Effects of metal pollution on exploration behavior, a key animal personality trait, could have critical effects on fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea S Grunst
- Department of Biology, Behavioural Ecology and Ecophysiology Group, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium.
| | - Melissa L Grunst
- Department of Biology, Behavioural Ecology and Ecophysiology Group, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Bert Thys
- Department of Biology, Behavioural Ecology and Ecophysiology Group, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Thomas Raap
- Department of Biology, Behavioural Ecology and Ecophysiology Group, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Natasha Daem
- Department of Biology, Behavioural Ecology and Ecophysiology Group, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Rianne Pinxten
- Department of Biology, Behavioural Ecology and Ecophysiology Group, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; Faculty of Social Sciences, Antwerp School of Education, University of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Marcel Eens
- Department of Biology, Behavioural Ecology and Ecophysiology Group, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
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10
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Hubbs-Tait L, Nation JR, Krebs NF, Bellinger DC. Neurotoxicants, Micronutrients, and Social Environments. Psychol Sci Public Interest 2016; 6:57-121. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1529-1006.2005.00024.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
SUMMARY—Systematic research evaluating the separate and interacting impacts of neurotoxicants, micronutrients, and social environments on children's cognition and behavior has only recently been initiated. Years of extensive human epidemiologic and animal experimental research document the deleterious impact of lead and other metals on the nervous system. However, discrepancies among human studies and between animal and human studies underscore the importance of variations in child nutrition as well as social and behavioral aspects of children's environments that mitigate or exacerbate the effects of neurotoxicants. In this monograph, we review existing research on the impact of neurotoxic metals, nutrients, and social environments and interactions across the three domains. We examine the literature on lead, mercury, manganese, and cadmium in terms of dispersal, epidemiology, experimental animal studies, effects of social environments, and effects of nutrition. Research documenting the negative impact of lead on cognition and behavior influenced reductions by the Center for Disease Control in child lead-screening guidelines from 30 micrograms per deciliter (μg/dL) in 1975 to 25 μg/dL in 1985 and to 10 μg/dL in 1991. A further reduction is currently being considered. Experimental animal research documents lead's alteration of glutamate-neurotransmitter (particularly N-methyl-D-aspartate) activity vital to learning and memory. In addition, lead induces changes in cholinergic and dopaminergic activity. Elevated lead concentrations in the blood are more common among children living in poverty and there is some evidence that socioeconomic status influences associations between lead and child outcomes. Micronutrients that influence the effects of lead include iron and zinc. Research documenting the negative impact of mercury on children (as well as adults) has resulted in a reference dose (RfD) of 0.1 microgram per kilogram of body weight per day (μg/kg/day). In animal studies, mercury interferes with glutamatergic, cholinergic, and dopaminergic activity. Although evidence for interactions of mercury with children's social contexts is minimal, researchers are examining interactions of mercury with several nutrients. Research on the effects of cadmium and manganese on child cognition and behavior is just beginning. Experimental animal research links cadmium to learning deficits, manganese to behaviors characteristic of Parkinson's disease, and both to altered dopaminergic functioning. We close our review with a discussion of policy implications, and we recommend interdisciplinary research that will enable us to bridge gaps within and across domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Hubbs-Tait
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Oklahoma State University
| | | | - Nancy F. Krebs
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine
| | - David C. Bellinger
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School; Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health; and Children's Hospital Boston
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11
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Liu J, Zhao SR, Reyes T. Neurological and Epigenetic Implications of Nutritional Deficiencies on Psychopathology: Conceptualization and Review of Evidence. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:18129-48. [PMID: 26251900 PMCID: PMC4581239 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160818129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2015] [Revised: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 07/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, a role for epigenetic modifications in the pathophysiology of disease has received significant attention. Many studies are now beginning to explore the gene-environment interactions, which may mediate early-life exposure to risk factors, such as nutritional deficiencies and later development of behavioral problems in children and adults. In this paper, we review the current literature on the role of epigenetics in the development of psychopathology, with a specific focus on the potential for epigenetic modifications to link nutrition and brain development. We propose a conceptual framework whereby epigenetic modifications (e.g., DNA methylation) mediate the link between micro- and macro-nutrient deficiency early in life and brain dysfunction (e.g., structural aberration, neurotransmitter perturbation), which has been linked to development of behavior problems later on in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianghong Liu
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Sophie R Zhao
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Teresa Reyes
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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12
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Abstract
The impact of toxins on the developing brain is usually subtle for an individual child, but the damage can be substantial at the population level. Numerous challenges must be addressed to definitively test the impact of toxins on brain development in children: We must quantify exposure using a biologic marker or pollutant; account for an ever-expanding set of potential confounders; identify critical windows of vulnerability; and repeatedly examine the association of biologic markers of toxins with intellectual abilities, behaviors, and brain function in distinct cohorts. Despite these challenges, numerous toxins have been implicated in the development of intellectual deficits and mental disorders in children. Yet, too little has been done to protect children from these ubiquitous but insidious toxins. The objective of this review is to provide an overview on the population impact of toxins on the developing brain and describe implications for public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce P Lanphear
- Child and Family Research Institute, BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V5A 1S6, Canada
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13
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Weber DN, Ghorai JK. Experimental Design Affects Social Behavior Outcomes in Adult Zebrafish Developmentally Exposed to Lead. Zebrafish 2013; 10:294-302. [DOI: 10.1089/zeb.2012.0780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel N. Weber
- Children's Environmental Health Sciences Core Center, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Jugal K. Ghorai
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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14
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Cross-cultural application of Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment: instrument translation in Chinese, challenges, and future directions. World J Pediatr 2012; 8:5-10. [PMID: 22105575 PMCID: PMC4247332 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-011-0329-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2010] [Accepted: 04/01/2011] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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15
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Liu J. Early Health Risk Factors for Violence: Conceptualization, Review of the Evidence, and Implications. AGGRESSION AND VIOLENT BEHAVIOR 2011; 16:63-73. [PMID: 21399727 PMCID: PMC3052794 DOI: 10.1016/j.avb.2010.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Violence and aggression are public health problems that can benefit from ongoing research into risk reduction and prevention. Current developmental theories of violence and aggression emphasize biological and psychosocial factors, particularly during adolescence. However, there has been less focus on understanding the interactive, multiplicative effects of these processes. Furthermore, little attention has been given to the pre-, peri-, and postnatal periods, where prevention and intervention may yield effective results. Early health risk factors that influence negative behavioral outcomes include prenatal and postnatal nutrition, tobacco use during pregnancy, maternal depression, birth complications, traumatic brain injury, lead exposure, and child abuse. There is an ample literature to suggest that these early health risk factors may increase the likelihood of childhood externalizing behaviors, aggression, juvenile delinquency, adult criminal behavior, and/or violence. This paper proposes an early health risk factors framework for violence prediction, built on existing developmental theories of criminal behavior and supported by empirical findings. This framework addresses gaps in the adolescent psychopathology literature and presents a novel conceptualization of behavioral disturbance that emphasizes the pre-, peri-, and post-natal periods, when a child's development is critical and the opportunity for behavioral and environmental modification is high. Implications for such a framework on violence prevention programs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianghong Liu
- School of Nursing and School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Blvd., Room 426, Claire M. Fagin Hall, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6096, tel: (215) 898-8293
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16
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Olympio KPK, Oliveira PV, Naozuka J, Cardoso MRA, Marques AF, Günther WMR, Bechara EJH. Surface dental enamel lead levels and antisocial behavior in Brazilian adolescents. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2009; 32:273-9. [PMID: 20005947 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2009.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2009] [Revised: 11/24/2009] [Accepted: 12/07/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Lead poisoning has been reportedly linked to a high risk of learning disabilities, aggression and criminal offenses. To study the association between lead exposure and antisocial/delinquent behavior, a cross-sectional study was conducted with 173 Brazilian youths aged 14-18 and their parents (n=93), living in impoverished neighborhoods of Bauru-SP, with high criminality indices. Self-Reported Delinquency (SRD) and Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) questionnaires were used to evaluate delinquent/antisocial behavior. Body lead burdens were evaluated in surface dental enamel acid microbiopsies. The dental enamel lead levels (DELL) were quantified by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS) and phosphorus content was measured using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Logistic regression was used to identify associations between DELL and each scale defined by CBCL and SRD scores. Odd ratios adjusted for familial and social covariates, considering a group of youths exposed to high lead levels (>or=75 percentile), indicated that high DELL is associated with increased risk of exceeding the clinical score for somatic complaints, social problems, rule-breaking behavior and externalizing problems (CI 95%). High DELL was not found to be associated with elevated SRD scores. In conclusion, our data support the hypothesis that high-level lead exposure can trigger antisocial behavior, which calls for public policies to prevent lead poisoning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly P K Olympio
- Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Departamento de Saúde Ambiental, Universidade de São Paulo, 01246-904 São Paulo, Brazil
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17
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Wright JP, Dietrich KN, Ris MD, Hornung RW, Wessel SD, Lanphear BP, Ho M, Rae MN. Association of prenatal and childhood blood lead concentrations with criminal arrests in early adulthood. PLoS Med 2008; 5:e101. [PMID: 18507497 PMCID: PMC2689664 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.0050101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 218] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2007] [Accepted: 03/18/2008] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood lead exposure is a purported risk factor for antisocial behavior, but prior studies either relied on indirect measures of exposure or did not follow participants into adulthood to examine the relationship between lead exposure and criminal activity in young adults. The objective of this study was to determine if prenatal and childhood blood lead concentrations are associated with arrests for criminal offenses. METHODS AND FINDINGS Pregnant women were recruited from four prenatal clinics in Cincinnati, Ohio if they resided in areas of the city with a high concentration of older, lead-contaminated housing. We studied 250 individuals, 19 to 24 y of age, out of 376 children who were recruited at birth between 1979 and 1984. Prenatal maternal blood lead concentrations were measured during the first or early second trimester of pregnancy. Childhood blood lead concentrations were measured on a quarterly and biannual basis through 6.5 y. Study participants were examined at an inner-city pediatric clinic and the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. Total arrests and arrests for offenses involving violence were collected from official Hamilton County, Ohio criminal justice records. Main outcomes were the covariate-adjusted rate ratios (RR) for total arrests and arrests for violent crimes associated with each 5 microg/dl (0.24 micromol/l) increase in blood lead concentration. Adjusted total arrest rates were greater for each 5 microg/dl (0.24 micromol/l) increase in blood lead concentration: RR = 1.40 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07-1.85) for prenatal blood lead, 1.07 (95% CI 0.88-1.29) for average childhood blood lead, and 1.27 (95% CI 1.03-1.57) for 6-year blood lead. Adjusted arrest rates for violent crimes were also greater for each 5 microg/dl increase in blood lead: RR = 1.34 (95% CI 0.88-2.03) for prenatal blood lead, 1.30 (95% CI 1.03-1.64) for average childhood blood lead, and 1.48 (95% CI 1.15-1.89) for 6-year blood lead. CONCLUSIONS Prenatal and postnatal blood lead concentrations are associated with higher rates of total arrests and/or arrests for offenses involving violence. This is the first prospective study to demonstrate an association between developmental exposure to lead and adult criminal behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Paul Wright
- Cincinnati Children's Environmental Health Center, Division of Criminal Justice, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Kim N Dietrich
- Cincinnati Children's Environmental Health Center, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
- * To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
| | - M. Douglas Ris
- Cincinnati Children's Environmental Health Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Richard W Hornung
- Cincinnati Children's Environmental Health Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Stephanie D Wessel
- Cincinnati Children's Environmental Health Center, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Bruce P Lanphear
- Cincinnati Children's Environmental Health Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Mona Ho
- Cincinnati Children's Environmental Health Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Mary N Rae
- Cincinnati Children's Environmental Health Center, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
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Hwang L. Environmental stressors and violence: lead and polychlorinated biphenyls. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2007; 22:313-328. [PMID: 18351230 DOI: 10.1515/reveh.2007.22.4.313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Many environmental risk factors for antisocial and violent behavior have been described. In recent years, this topic has become widely researched in the fields of environmental health, psychology, sociology, and many other disciplines. The results from a myriad of studies have shown that the etiologies of violent and aggressive behavior range from definitive biological environmental stressors like lead or polychlorinated biphenyls to various socio-cultural environmental stressors, such as social, economic, and racial factors. The aim of this paper is (a) to provide an overview of the specific effects of the environmental stressors that have been associated with violent behavior, and (b) to discuss current policies and regulations implemented by the United States government for minimizing exposure to environmental toxins contributing to violence in our society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence Hwang
- State University of New York at Albany, School of Public Health, Rensselaer, New York 12114, USA.
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19
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Safi J, Fischbein A, El Haj S, Sansour R, Jaghabir M, Hashish MA, Suleiman H, Safi N, Abu-Hamda A, Witt JK, Platkov E, Reingold S, Alayyan A, Berman T, Bercovitch M, Choudhri Y, Richter ED. Childhood lead exposure in the palestinian authority, Israel, and Jordan: results from the Middle Eastern regional cooperation project, 1996-2000. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2006; 114:917-22. [PMID: 16759995 PMCID: PMC1480480 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.8339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
In the Middle East, the major sources of lead exposure have been leaded gasoline, lead-contaminated flour from traditional stone mills, focal exposures from small battery plants and smelters, and kohl (blue color) in cosmetics. In 1998-2000, we measured blood lead (PbB) levels in children 2-6 years of age in Israel, Jordan, and the Palestinian Authority (n = 1478), using a fingerstick method. Mean (peak; percentage > 10 microg/dL) PbB levels in Israel (n = 317) , the West Bank (n = 344), Jordan (n = 382) , and Gaza (n = 435) were 3.2 microg/dL (18.2 ; 2.2%) , 4.2 microg/dL (25.7; 5.2%), 3.2 microg/dL (39.3; < 1%) , and 8.6 microg/dL (> 80.0; 17.2%), respectively. High levels in Gaza were all among children living near a battery factory. The findings, taken together with data on time trends in lead emissions and in PbB in children in previous years, indicate the benefits from phasing out of leaded gasoline but state the case for further reductions and investigation of hot spots. The project demonstrated the benefits of regional cooperation in planning and carrying out a jointly designed project.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamal Safi
- Environmental Protection and Research Institute, Gaza, Palestinian Authority
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20
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Cervantes MC, David JT, Loyd DR, Salinas JA, Delville Y. Lead exposure alters the development of agonistic behavior in golden hamsters. Dev Psychobiol 2006; 47:158-65. [PMID: 16136561 DOI: 10.1002/dev.20076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
We tested the effects of exposure to different doses of lead acetate (either 0, 25, 100, or 400 ppm) on the development of aggressive behavior in male golden hamsters. Pups were tested for offensive responses across puberty, as they were maturing from play fighting to adult aggression. Our data show a dose-specific effect of lead exposure on the development of aggression during puberty at doses resulting in blood levels well below 20 microg/dl. Animals exposed to 25 ppm lead acetate were faster and performed more than twice as many attacks on intruders by late puberty. They were also twice as likely to initiate adult instead of play-fighting attacks around mid-puberty. These observations were independent of any effect on growth. Thus, exposure to low doses of lead enhanced aggression and accelerated its maturation. As such, our data support the association between exposure to low doses of lead and aggressive behavior in boys.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Catalina Cervantes
- Department of Psychology and Institute, for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA.
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21
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Liu J, Wuerker A. Biosocial bases of aggressive and violent behavior—implications for nursing studies. Int J Nurs Stud 2005; 42:229-41. [PMID: 15680620 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2004.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2004] [Revised: 05/13/2004] [Accepted: 06/08/2004] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Although aggression and violence have been increasingly viewed as a major public health problem with a biological and health basis, it has been under-researched in the nursing and health context. This paper reviews early biological risk factors for violence. These factors include pregnancy/birth complications, fetal exposure to nicotine, alcohol, and drugs, low cholesterol, malnutrition, lead and manganese exposure, head injuries and brain dysfunction, low arousal, low serotonin, low cortisol, and high testosterone. A biopsychosocial violence mode is proposed. Finally, the paper argues that nursing is ideally placed to develop a new body of knowledge based on a biosocial perspective that can lead to more effective prevention programs for violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianghong Liu
- Social Science Research Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089-0375, USA.
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22
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Abstract
Aggressive behavior can be studied as either offensive or defensive responses to a stimulus. The studies discussed in this review are focused on the peripubertal development of offensive aggression in male golden hamsters and its responsiveness to repeated social stress. Quantitative and qualitative changes in offensive responses were analyzed during this period. Quantitative changes in offensive responses were observed as decreased frequency of attacks. Qualitative changes were observed as changes in attack types, as animals reorient their attacks gradually from the face to the lower belly and rump. These developmental changes were altered by repeated exposure to social stress during early puberty. Daily exposure to aggressive adults during early puberty accelerated the qualitative development of offensive responses and the onset of adult-like offensive responses. In contrast, social stress had little effect on the quantitative changes associated with early puberty. However, social stress was associated with higher attack frequency during adulthood. These effects of stress during early puberty contrast with those observed with animals in late puberty. At that time, repeated exposure to aggressive adults inhibits offensive aggression. These data constitute the basis for a new theory on the development of agonistic behavior that includes the following hypotheses. First, it is hypothesized that mid-puberty is marked by a change in responsiveness to repeated social stress. As such, differences in stress responsiveness from social interactions are interpreted as a basic distinction between play fighting and adult aggression. Second, it is also hypothesized that a common neural circuitry mediates the activation of offensive responses during play fighting and adult aggressive interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvon Delville
- Psychology Department and Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
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23
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Li W, Han S, Gregg TR, Kemp FW, Davidow AL, Louria DB, Siegel A, Bogden JD. Lead exposure potentiates predatory attack behavior in the cat. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2003; 92:197-206. [PMID: 12804516 DOI: 10.1016/s0013-9351(02)00083-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Epidemiologic studies have demonstrated that environmental lead exposure is associated with aggressive behavior in children; however, numerous confounding variables limit the ability of these studies to establish a causal relationship. The study of aggressive behavior using a validated animal model was used to test the hypothesis that there is a causal relationship between lead exposure and aggression in the absence of confounding variables. We studied the effects of lead exposure on a feline model of aggression: predatory (quiet biting) attack of an anesthetized rat. Five cats were stimulated with a precisely controlled electrical current via electrodes inserted into the lateral hypothalamus. The response measure was the predatory attack threshold current (i.e., the current required to elicit an attack response on 50% of the trials). Blocks of trials were administered in which predatory attack threshold currents were measured three times a week for a total of 6-10 weeks, including before, during, and after lead exposure. Lead was incorporated into cat food "treats" at doses of 50-150 mg/kg/day. Two of the five cats received a second period of lead exposure. Blood lead concentrations were measured twice a week and were <1, 21-77, and <20 micro g/dL prior to, during, and after lead exposure, respectively. The predatory attack threshold decreased significantly during initial lead exposure in three of five cats and increased after the cessation of lead exposure in four of the five cats (P<0.01). The predatory attack thresholds and blood lead concentrations for each cat were inversely correlated (r=-0.35 to -0.74). A random-effects mixed model demonstrated a significant (P=0.0019) negative association between threshold current and blood lead concentration. The data of this study demonstrate that lead exposure enhances predatory aggression in the cat and provide experimental support for a causal relationship between lead exposure and aggressive behavior in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjie Li
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Community Health, UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School, 185 South Orange Avenue, Newark, NJ 07103-2714, USA
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24
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Wommack JC, Taravosh-Lahn K, David JT, Delville Y. Repeated exposure to social stress alters the development of agonistic behavior in male golden hamsters. Horm Behav 2003; 43:229-36. [PMID: 12614654 DOI: 10.1016/s0018-506x(02)00029-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In male golden hamsters, exposure to social stress during puberty alters aggressive behavior. Interestingly, agonistic behavior undergoes two major transitions during puberty: a decline in attack frequency and a shift from play fighting to adult-like aggression. Based on previous observations, we developed an approach for characterizing offensive responses as play fighting or adult-like. The present studies had two aims. First, we validated our approach by looking at the development of attack types during puberty. Second, we looked at the effects of repeated social stress on the development of agonistic behavior by repeatedly exposing individuals to aggressive adults during puberty. In the first phase of the study, our results point to three different developmental periods. Initially, animals engage in agonistic behavior though attacks targeted at the face and cheeks. This period lasts from Postnatal Day 20 (P-20) to P-40 (early puberty). This phase corresponding to play fighting is followed by a transitional period characterized by attacks focused on the flanks (from P-40 to P-50, mid-puberty). Afterward, animals perform adult-like aggression characterized by attacks focused on the belly and rear. Our data also show that repeated exposure to aggressive adults has two separate effects on the development of agonistic behavior. Repeated social stress accelerated the onset of adult-like agonistic responses. Furthermore, attack frequency, while decreasing during puberty, remained at a higher level in early adulthood in stressed animals. These results show that repeated exposure to social stress during puberty alters the development of agonistic behavior both qualitatively and quantitatively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel C Wommack
- Psychology Department and Institute for Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
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25
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Rodríguez VM, Carrizales L, Mendoza MS, Fajardo OR, Giordano M. Effects of sodium arsenite exposure on development and behavior in the rat. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2002; 24:743-50. [PMID: 12460656 DOI: 10.1016/s0892-0362(02)00313-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Arsenic is an environmental contaminant found in soil, water and air in some zones of the world. It has been widely studied for its effects as a human carcinogenic agent, but few studies have dealt with neurobehavioral effects. In addition, studies of arsenic effects on development have only addressed its effects on embryotoxicity and teratogenicity after a single oral, gavage or intraperitoneal exposure. Among the behavioral alterations reported after intoxication with arsenic are both increased and decreased locomotor activity and learning deficits in a delayed alternation task [Toxicol. Lett. 54 (1990) 345; Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 50 (1993) 100; Brain Res. Bull. 55 (2001) 301]. To further characterize developmental and behavioral alterations induced by arsenic exposure, Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to arsenite (36.70 mg arsenic/l in drinking water) from gestation day 15 (GD 15) or postnatal day 1 (PND 1), until approximately 4 months old. The pregnant or lactating dams received either the arsenic solution or regular drinking water and once pups were weaned, they continued receiving the same solution as drinking water. Animals exposed from GD 15 showed increased spontaneous locomotor activity and both exposed groups showed increased number of errors in a delayed alternation task in comparison to the control group. Total arsenic (TA) content in brain was similar for both exposed groups and significantly different from the control group. These results indicate that rats exposed to arsenic during development present deficits in spontaneous locomotor activity and alterations in a spatial learning task.
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Affiliation(s)
- V M Rodríguez
- Center for Neurobiology, Campus UNAM-Juriquilla, P.O. Box 1-1141, Qere'taro, Qro. 76001, Mexico
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Rademacher DJ, Steinpreis RE, Weber DN. Short-term exposure to dietary Pb and/or DMSA affects dopamine and dopamine metabolite levels in the medulla, optic tectum, and cerebellum of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2001; 70:199-207. [PMID: 11701189 DOI: 10.1016/s0091-3057(01)00597-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) were randomly assigned to one of the following dietary exposure conditions: lead (Pb) solvent (2% nitric acid), meso-2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) solvent (0.1 N NaOH), Pb, DMSA, Pb followed by Pb solvent, or Pb followed by DMSA. Medulla, cerebellum, and optic tectum homogenates were analyzed for dopamine (DA), homovanillic acid (HVA), and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC). DA levels in all brain regions tended to be highest for trout exposed to dietary Pb followed by dietary DMSA. DA levels were elevated for trout exposed to dietary DMSA and Pb followed by Pb solvent. DA levels were below control levels for trout exposed to Pb only. HVA levels varied across brain regions. However, HVA levels in all brain regions tended to be elevated for trout exposed to dietary DMSA and Pb followed by Pb solvent. DOPAC levels across all brain regions were below control levels for trout dietary exposed to DMSA, Pb only, Pb followed by Pb solvent, and Pb followed by DMSA. These data indicate that Pb and/or DMSA have the potential of altering DA, HVA, and DOPAC levels in the medulla, cerebellum, and optic tectum. The animal model of short-term dietary exposure to Pb and DMSA, both alone and sequentially, to mimic dietary exposure to Pb and the oral delivery of DMSA, that our laboratory has developed, may be useful in future studies aimed at characterizing the neurobiological mechanisms by which Pb and/or DMSA alter neurotransmitter levels and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- D J Rademacher
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 224 Garland Hall, 2441 East Hartford Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53211, USA
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Rodríguez VM, Carrizales L, Jiménez-Capdeville ME, Dufour L, Giordano M. The effects of sodium arsenite exposure on behavioral parameters in the rat. Brain Res Bull 2001; 55:301-8. [PMID: 11470331 DOI: 10.1016/s0361-9230(01)00477-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Arsenic is a metalloid widely present in the environment. It is found in well water, soil, and air, and is also released from mining residues and industrial debris, among other anthropogenic sources. It has been previously reported that the content of catecholamines in striatum, hippocampus, and other cerebral regions changes in mice and rats exposed to arsenic. Few studies have examined behavioral alterations after intoxication with arsenic, and both increased and decreased locomotor activity, as well as learning deficits, have been described. In order to characterize the behavioral alterations induced by arsenic exposure, we exposed adult male Sprague-Dawley rats to 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg of arsenic by intragastric route for 2 or 4 weeks. Exposed rats showed reduced locomotor activity, which returned to control levels at the end of the intoxication period. We also found an increase in the number of errors in an egocentric task, alterations in monoamine content in midbrain and cortex, and increases in arsenic brain concentration, which were related to time of the exposure but not dose. These results indicate that short-term arsenic exposure induces neural and behavioral changes that may reflect a neurotoxic effect, and that these alterations are correlated to dose, time of exposure, and experimental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- V M Rodríguez
- Center for Neurobiology, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México-Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Juriquilla, Querétaro, México.
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Cory-Slechta DA, Crofton KM, Foran JA, Ross JF, Sheets LP, Weiss B, Mileson B. Methods to identify and characterize developmental neurotoxicity for human health risk assessment. I: behavioral effects. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2001; 109 Suppl 1:79-91. [PMID: 11250808 PMCID: PMC1240545 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.01109s179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Alterations in nervous system function after exposure to a developmental neurotoxicant may be identified and characterized using neurobehavioral methods. A number of methods can evaluate alterations in sensory, motor, and cognitive functions in laboratory animals exposed to toxicants during nervous system development. Fundamental issues underlying proper use and interpretation of these methods include a) consideration of the scientific goal in experimental design, b) selection of an appropriate animal model, c) expertise of the investigator, d) adequate statistical analysis, and e) proper data interpretation. Strengths and weaknesses of the assessment methods include sensitivity, selectivity, practicality, and variability. Research could improve current behavioral methods by providing a better understanding of the relationship between alterations in motor function and changes in the underlying structure of these systems. Research is also needed to develop simple and sensitive assays for use in screening assessments of sensory and cognitive function. Assessment methods are being developed to examine other nervous system functions, including social behavior, autonomic processes, and biologic rhythms. Social behaviors are modified by many classes of developmental neurotoxicants and hormonally active compounds that may act either through neuroendocrine mechanisms or by directly influencing brain morphology or neurochemistry. Autonomic and thermoregulatory functions have been the province of physiologists and neurobiologists rather than toxicologists, but this may change as developmental neurotoxicology progresses and toxicologists apply techniques developed by other disciplines to examine changes in function after toxicant exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A Cory-Slechta
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical School, Rochester, New York, USA
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