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Morgan RK, Wang K, Svoboda LK, Rygiel CA, Lalancette C, Cavalcante R, Bartolomei MS, Prasasya R, Neier K, Perera BP, Jones TR, Colacino JA, Sartor MA, Dolinoy DC. Effects of Developmental Lead and Phthalate Exposures on DNA Methylation in Adult Mouse Blood, Brain, and Liver: A Focus on Genomic Imprinting by Tissue and Sex. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2024; 132:67003. [PMID: 38833407 PMCID: PMC11166413 DOI: 10.1289/ehp14074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maternal exposure to environmental chemicals can cause adverse health effects in offspring. Mounting evidence supports that these effects are influenced, at least in part, by epigenetic modifications. It is unknown whether epigenetic changes in surrogate tissues such as the blood are reflective of similar changes in target tissues such as cortex or liver. OBJECTIVE We examined tissue- and sex-specific changes in DNA methylation (DNAm) associated with human-relevant lead (Pb) and di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) exposure during perinatal development in cerebral cortex, blood, and liver. METHODS Female mice were exposed to human relevant doses of either Pb (32 ppm ) via drinking water or DEHP (5 mg / kg-day ) via chow for 2 weeks prior to mating through offspring weaning. Whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) was utilized to examine DNAm changes in offspring cortex, blood, and liver at 5 months of age. Metilene and methylSig were used to identify differentially methylated regions (DMRs). Annotatr and ChIP-enrich were used for genomic annotations and gene set enrichment tests of DMRs, respectively. RESULTS The cortex contained the majority of DMRs associated with Pb (66%) and DEHP (57%) exposure. The cortex also contained the greatest degree of overlap in DMR signatures between sexes (n = 13 and 8 DMRs with Pb and DEHP exposure, respectively) and exposure types (n = 55 and 39 DMRs in males and females, respectively). In all tissues, detected DMRs were preferentially found at genomic regions associated with gene expression regulation (e.g., CpG islands and shores, 5' UTRs, promoters, and exons). An analysis of GO terms associated with DMR-containing genes identified imprinted genes to be impacted by both Pb and DEHP exposure. Of these, Gnas and Grb10 contained DMRs across tissues, sexes, and exposures, with some signatures replicated between target and surrogate tissues. DMRs were enriched in the imprinting control regions (ICRs) of Gnas and Grb10, and we again observed a replication of DMR signatures between blood and target tissues. Specifically, we observed hypermethylation of the Grb10 ICR in both blood and liver of Pb-exposed male animals. CONCLUSIONS These data provide preliminary evidence that imprinted genes may be viable candidates in the search for epigenetic biomarkers of toxicant exposure in target tissues. Additional research is needed on allele- and developmental stage-specific effects, as well as whether other imprinted genes provide additional examples of this relationship. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP14074.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel K. Morgan
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Laurie K. Svoboda
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Christine A. Rygiel
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Claudia Lalancette
- Epigenomics Core, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Raymond Cavalcante
- Epigenomics Core, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Marisa S. Bartolomei
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rexxi Prasasya
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kari Neier
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Bambarendage P.U. Perera
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Tamara R. Jones
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Justin A. Colacino
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Maureen A. Sartor
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Dana C. Dolinoy
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Kabekkodu SP, Gladwell LR, Choudhury M. The mitochondrial link: Phthalate exposure and cardiovascular disease. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2024; 1871:119708. [PMID: 38508420 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2024.119708] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Phthalates' pervasive presence in everyday life poses concern as they have been revealed to induce perturbing health defects. Utilized as a plasticizer, phthalates are riddled throughout many common consumer products including personal care products, food packaging, home furnishings, and medical supplies. Phthalates permeate into the environment by leaching out of these products which can subsequently be taken up by the human body. It is previously established that a connection exists between phthalate exposure and cardiovascular disease (CVD) development; however, the specific mitochondrial link in this scenario has not yet been described. Prior studies have indicated that one possible mechanism for how phthalates exert their effects is through mitochondrial dysfunction. By disturbing mitochondrial structure, function, and signaling, phthalates can contribute to the development of the foremost cause of death worldwide, CVD. This review will examine the potential link among phthalates and their effects on the mitochondria, permissive of CVD development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shama Prasada Kabekkodu
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Lauren Rae Gladwell
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Mahua Choudhury
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX, USA.
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Yang S, Yang S, Luo A. Phthalates and uterine disorders. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2024; 0:reveh-2023-0159. [PMID: 38452364 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2023-0159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Humans are ubiquitously exposed to environmental endocrine disrupting chemicals such as phthalates. Phthalates can migrate out of products and enter the human body through ingestion, inhalation, or dermal application, can have potential estrogenic/antiestrogenic and/or androgenic/antiandrogenic activity, and are involved in many diseases. As a female reproductive organ that is regulated by hormones such as estrogen, progesterone and androgen, the uterus can develop several disorders such as leiomyoma, endometriosis and abnormal bleeding. In this review, we summarize the hormone-like activities of phthalates, in vitro studies of endometrial cells exposed to phthalates, epigenetic modifications in the uterus induced by phthalate exposure, and associations between phthalate exposure and uterine disorders such as leiomyoma and endometriosis. Moreover, we also discuss the current research gaps in understanding the relationship between phthalate exposure and uterine disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhong Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 10487 National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology , Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuhao Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 10487 National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology , Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Aiyue Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 10487 National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology , Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
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Su HY, Lai CS, Lee KH, Chiang YW, Chen CC, Hsu PC. Prenatal exposure to low-dose di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) induces potentially hepatic lipid accumulation and fibrotic changes in rat offspring. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 269:115776. [PMID: 38056127 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115776] [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: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a plasticizer that is widely used to enhance the flexibility and durability of various products. As an endocrine disruptor, DEHP can interfere with normal hormonal functions, posing substantial health risks to organisms. Given the critical role of the liver in DEHP metabolism, we investigated potential liver damage in offspring induced by prenatal exposure to low doses of DEHP in Sprague Dawley rats. Pregnant rats were divided into three groups and administered 20 or 200 μg/kg/day of DEHP or corn oil vehicle control via oral gavage from gestation days 0-20. Male rat offspring were euthanized on postnatal day 84, and blood and liver specimens were collected for analysis. We observed fibrotic changes in the livers of the exposed groups, accompanied by the proliferation and activation of hepatic stellate cells and upregulated expression of TGF-B and collagen 1A1. Additionally, an inflammatory response, characterized by increased macrophage infiltration and elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, was evident. Third, hepatic and serum triglyceride and serum cholesterol were notably increased, along with upregulated expression of lipid metabolism-related proteins, such as sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c, acetyl-CoA carboxylase, fatty acid synthase, and diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 1, particularly in the low-dose group. These results suggest that prenatal exposure to DEHP can disrupt lipid metabolism, resulting in hepatic lipid accumulation in the offspring. This exposure may also induce an inflammatory response that contributes to the development of liver fibrosis. Thus, even at relatively low doses, such exposure can precipitate latent liver damage in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hung-Yuan Su
- Department of Safety, Health and Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan; School of Chinese Medicine for Post Baccalaureate, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan; Department of Emergency Medicine, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Shu Lai
- Department of Seafood Science, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Hsin Lee
- Department of Emergency Medicine, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan; School of Medicine, College of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Wei Chiang
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 112, Taiwan; Department of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chi Chen
- School of Chinese Medicine for Post Baccalaureate, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan; School of Medicine, College of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan; Department of Physical Therapy, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan; Department of Emergency Medicine, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan
| | - Ping-Chi Hsu
- Department of Safety, Health and Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan; Department of Public Health, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan.
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Derakhshan M, Kessler NJ, Hellenthal G, Silver MJ. Metastable epialleles in humans. Trends Genet 2024; 40:52-68. [PMID: 38000919 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2023.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
First identified in isogenic mice, metastable epialleles (MEs) are loci where the extent of DNA methylation (DNAm) is variable between individuals but correlates across tissues derived from different germ layers within a given individual. This property, termed systemic interindividual variation (SIV), is attributed to stochastic methylation establishment before germ layer differentiation. Evidence suggests that some putative human MEs are sensitive to environmental exposures in early development. In this review we introduce key concepts pertaining to human MEs, describe methods used to identify MEs in humans, and review their genomic features. We also highlight studies linking DNAm at putative human MEs to early environmental exposures and postnatal (including disease) phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Derakhshan
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Noah J Kessler
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EH, UK
| | | | - Matt J Silver
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK; Medical Research Council (MRC) Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Fajara, Banjul, The Gambia.
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6
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Shukla R, Arshee MR, Laws MJ, Flaws JA, Bagchi MK, Wagoner Johnson AJ, Bagchi IC. Chronic exposure of mice to phthalates enhances TGF beta signaling and promotes uterine fibrosis. Reprod Toxicol 2023; 122:108491. [PMID: 37863342 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108491] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Phthalates are synthetic chemicals widely used as plasticizers and stabilizers in various consumer products. Because of the extensive production and use of phthalates, humans are exposed to these chemicals daily. While most studies focus on a single phthalate, humans are exposed to a mixture of phthalates on a regular basis. The impact of continuous exposure to phthalate mixture on uterus is largely unknown. Thus, we conducted studies in which adult female mice were exposed for 6 months to 0.15 ppm and 1.5 ppm of a mixture of phthalates via chow ad libitum. Our studies revealed that consumption of phthalate mixture at 0.15 ppm and 1.5 ppm for 6 months led to a significant increase in the thickness of the myometrial layer compared to control. Further investigation employing RNA-sequencing revealed an elevated transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling in the uteri of mice fed with phthalate mixture. TGF-β signaling is associated with the development of fibrosis, a consequence of excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix components, such as collagen fibers in a tissue. Consistent with this observation, we found a higher incidence of collagen deposition in uteri of mice exposed to phthalate mixture compared to unexposed controls. Second Harmonic Generation (SHG) imaging showed disorganized collagen fibers and nanoindentation indicated a local increase in uterine stiffness upon exposure to phthalate mixture. Collectively, our results demonstrate that chronic exposure to phthalate mixture can have adverse effects on uterine homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritwik Shukla
- Departments of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Mahmuda R Arshee
- Mechanical Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Mary J Laws
- Departments of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Departments of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carle R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Milan K Bagchi
- Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carle R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carle Illinois College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Amy J Wagoner Johnson
- Mechanical Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carle R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carle Illinois College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Indrani C Bagchi
- Departments of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carle R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carle Illinois College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
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Robles-Matos N, Radaelli E, Simmons RA, Bartolomei MS. Preconception and developmental DEHP exposure alter liver metabolism in a sex-dependent manner in adult mouse offspring. Toxicology 2023; 499:153640. [PMID: 37806616 PMCID: PMC10842112 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2023.153640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Environmental exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) during critical periods of development is associated with an increased risk of metabolic diseases, including hepatic steatosis and obesity. Di-2-ethylhexyl-phthalate (DEHP) is an EDC strongly associated with these metabolic abnormalities. DEHP developmental windows of susceptibility are unknown yet have important public health implications. The purpose of this study was to identify these windows of susceptibility and determine whether developmental DEHP exposure alters hepatic metabolism later in life. Dams were exposed to control or feed containing human exposure relevant doses of DEHP (50 μg/kg BW/d) and high dose DEHP (10 mg/kg BW/d) from preconception until weaning or only exposed to DEHP during preconception. Post-weaning, all offspring were fed a control diet throughout adulthood. Using the Metabolon Untargeted Metabolomics platform, we identified 148 significant metabolites in female adult livers that were altered by preconception-gestation-lactation DEHP exposure. We found a significant increase in the levels of acylcarnitines, diacylglycerols, sphingolipids, glutathione, purines, and pyrimidines in DEHP-exposed female livers compared to controls. These changes in fatty acid oxidation and oxidative stress-related metabolites were correlated with hepatic changes including microvesicular steatosis, hepatocyte swelling, inflammation. In contrast to females, we observed fewer metabolic alterations in male offspring, which were uniquely found in preconception-only low dose DEHP exposure group. Although we found that preconception-gestational-lactation exposure causes the most liver pathology, we surprisingly found preconception exposure linked to an abnormal liver metabolome. We also found that two doses exhibited non-monotonic DEHP-induced changes in the liver. Collectively, these findings suggest that metabolic changes in the adult liver of offspring exposed periconceptionally to DHEP depends on the timing of exposure, dose, and sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Robles-Matos
- Epigenetics Institute, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Enrico Radaelli
- Comparative Pathology Core, Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Rebecca A Simmons
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Marisa S Bartolomei
- Epigenetics Institute, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Morgan RK, Wang K, Svoboda LK, Rygiel CA, Lalancette C, Cavalcante R, Bartolomei MS, Prasasya R, Neier K, Perera BP, Jones TR, Colacino JA, Sartor MA, Dolinoy DC. Effects of Developmental Lead and Phthalate Exposures on DNA Methylation in Adult Mouse Blood, Brain, and Liver Identifies Tissue- and Sex-Specific Changes with Implications for Genomic Imprinting. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.29.560131. [PMID: 37873115 PMCID: PMC10592650 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.29.560131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Background Maternal exposure to environmental chemicals can cause adverse health effects in offspring. Mounting evidence supports that these effects are influenced, at least in part, by epigenetic modifications. Objective We examined tissue- and sex-specific changes in DNA methylation (DNAm) associated with human-relevant lead (Pb) and di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) exposure during perinatal development in cerebral cortex, blood, and liver. Methods Female mice were exposed to human relevant doses of either Pb (32ppm) via drinking water or DEHP (5 mg/kg-day) via chow for two weeks prior to mating through offspring weaning. Whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) was utilized to examine DNAm changes in offspring cortex, blood, and liver at 5 months of age. Metilene and methylSig were used to identify differentially methylated regions (DMRs). Annotatr and Chipenrich were used for genomic annotations and geneset enrichment tests of DMRs, respectively. Results The cortex contained the majority of DMRs associated with Pb (69%) and DEHP (58%) exposure. The cortex also contained the greatest degree of overlap in DMR signatures between sexes (n = 17 and 14 DMRs with Pb and DEHP exposure, respectively) and exposure types (n = 79 and 47 DMRs in males and females, respectively). In all tissues, detected DMRs were preferentially found at genomic regions associated with gene expression regulation (e.g., CpG islands and shores, 5' UTRs, promoters, and exons). An analysis of GO terms associated with DMR-containing genes identified imprinted genes to be impacted by both Pb and DEHP exposure. Of these, Gnas and Grb10 contained DMRs across tissues, sexes, and exposures. DMRs were enriched in the imprinting control regions (ICRs) of Gnas and Grb10, with 15 and 17 ICR-located DMRs across cortex, blood, and liver in each gene, respectively. The ICRs were also the location of DMRs replicated across target and surrogate tissues, suggesting epigenetic changes these regions may be potentially viable biomarkers. Conclusions We observed Pb- and DEHP-specific DNAm changes in cortex, blood, and liver, and the greatest degree of overlap in DMR signatures was seen between exposures followed by sex and tissue type. DNAm at imprinted control regions was altered by both Pb and DEHP, highlighting the susceptibility of genomic imprinting to these exposures during the perinatal window of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel K. Morgan
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Laurie K. Svoboda
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Christine A. Rygiel
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Claudia Lalancette
- Epigenomics Core, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Raymond Cavalcante
- Epigenomics Core, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Marisa S. Bartolomei
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Rexxi Prasasya
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Kari Neier
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Bambarendage P.U. Perera
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Tamara R Jones
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Justin A. Colacino
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Maureen A. Sartor
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Dana C. Dolinoy
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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Wahlang B. RISING STARS: Sex differences in toxicant-associated fatty liver disease. J Endocrinol 2023; 258:e220247. [PMID: 37074385 PMCID: PMC10330380 DOI: 10.1530/joe-22-0247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
Based on biological sex, the consequential health outcomes from exposures to environmental chemicals or toxicants can differ in disease pathophysiology, progression, and severity. Due to basal differences in cellular and molecular processes resulting from sexual dimorphism of organs including the liver and additional factors influencing 'gene-environment' interactions, males and females can exhibit different responses to toxicant exposures. Associations between environmental/occupational chemical exposures and fatty liver disease (FLD) have been well-acknowledged in human epidemiologic studies and their causal relationships demonstrated in experimental models. However, studies related to sex differences in liver toxicology are still limited to draw any inferences on sex-dependent chemical toxicity. The purpose of this review is to highlight the present state of knowledge on the existence of sex differences in toxicant-associated FLD (TAFLD), discuss potential underlying mechanisms driving these differences, implications of said differences on disease susceptibility, and emerging concepts. Chemicals of interest include various categories of pollutants that have been investigated in TAFLD, namely persistent organic pollutants, volatile organic compounds, and metals. Insight into research areas requiring further development is also discussed, with the objective of narrowing the knowledge gap on sex differences in environmental liver diseases. Major conclusions from this review exercise are that biological sex influences TAFLD risks, in part due to (i) toxicant disruption of growth hormone and estrogen receptor signaling, (ii) basal sex differences in energy mobilization and storage, and (iii) differences in chemical metabolism and subsequent body burden. Finally, further sex-dependent toxicological assessments are warranted for the development of sex-specific intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Banrida Wahlang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA
- UofL Superfund Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA
- The Center for Integrative Environmental Health Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA
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Graceli JB, da Costa CS, Laws MJ, Deviney ARK, Meling D, Flaws JA. Chronic exposure to a mixture of phthalates shifts the white and brown adipose tissue phenotypes in female mice. Toxicol Sci 2023; 193:204-218. [PMID: 37021957 PMCID: PMC10230284 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfad032] [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: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Phthalates are endocrine-disrupting chemicals used in consumer products. Although phthalates are obesogens and affect metabolic function, it is unknown if chronic exposure for 6 months to a phthalate mixture alters adipose tissue phenotype in female mice. After vehicle or mixture exposure, white adipose tissue and brown adipose tissue (WAT and BAT) were analyzed for expression of adipogenesis, proliferation, angiogenesis, apoptosis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen deposition markers. The mixture altered WAT morphology, leading to an increase in hyperplasia, blood vessel number, and expression of BAT markers (Adipoq and Fgf2) in WAT. The mixture increased the expression of the inflammatory markers, Il1β, Ccl2, and Ccl5, in WAT. The mixture also increased expression of the proapoptotic (Bax and Bcl2) and antiapoptotic (Bcl2l10) factors in WAT. The mixture increased expression of the antioxidant Gpx1 in WAT. The mixture changed BAT morphology by increasing adipocyte diameter, whitening area, and blood vessel number and decreased expression of the thermogenic markers Ucp1, Pgargc1a, and Adrb3. Furthermore, the mixture increased the expression of adipogenic markers Plin1 and Cebpa, increased mast cell number, and increased Il1β expression in BAT. The mixture also increased expression of the antioxidant markers Gpx and Nrf2 and the apoptotic marker Casp2 in BAT. Collectively, these data indicate that chronic exposure to a phthalate mixture alters WAT and BAT lipid metabolism phenotypes in female mice, leading to an apparent shift in their normal morphology. Following long-term exposure to a phthalate mixture, WAT presented BAT-like features and BAT presented WAT-like features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jones B Graceli
- Department of Morphology, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, Brazil
| | - Charles S da Costa
- Department of Morphology, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitoria, Brazil
| | - Mary J Laws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Ashley R K Deviney
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Daryl Meling
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
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11
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Aydemir D, Aydogan-Ahbab M, Barlas N, Ulusu NN. Effects of the in-utero dicyclohexyl phthalate and di- n-hexyl phthalate administration on the oxidative stress-induced histopathological changes in the rat liver tissue correlated with serum biochemistry and hematological parameters. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1128202. [PMID: 37274322 PMCID: PMC10235726 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1128202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Phthalates are widely used as plasticizers in the industry and are found in cosmetics, food and drink packaging, drugs, toys, households, medical devices, pesticides, personal care products, and paints. Phthalates exert endocrine disrupting and peroxisome proliferator effects in humans and wildlife associated with the pathogenesis of various diseases, including diabetes, obesity, infertility, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, and cancer. Since phthalates are metabolized in the liver, which regulates the body's energy metabolism, long or short-term exposure to the phthalates is associated with impaired glucose, lipid, and oxidative stress metabolisms contributing to liver toxicity. However, the impact of in-utero exposure to DHP and DCHP on liver metabolism has not been studied previously. Thus, in this study, we evaluated serum biochemistry parameters, hematological markers, histopathological changes, and oxidative and pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) metabolisms in the liver following in-utero DHP and DCHP administration, respectively, in male and female rats. We found increased relative and absolute liver weights and impaired triglyceride, alanine transaminase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels upon dicyclohexyl phthalate (DCHP) and di-n-hexyl phthalate (DHP). Histopathological changes, including congestion, sinusoidal dilatation, inflammatory cell infiltration, cells with a pyknotic nucleus, lysis of hepatocytes, and degeneration of hepatic parenchyma have been observed in the liver samples of DHP and DCHP dose groups. Moreover, increased glutathione s-transferase (GST), glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), and glutathione reductase (GR) activities have been found in the liver samples of DHP and DCHP-treated rats associated with impaired pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) and oxidative stress metabolism. First time in the literature, we showed that in-utero exposure to DHP and DCHP causes liver damage associated with impaired oxidative stress metabolism in male and female rats. Our data may guide researchers and governments to regulate and restrict phthalates in industrial products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duygu Aydemir
- School of Medicine, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Koc University, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Mufide Aydogan-Ahbab
- University of Health Sciences Turkey, Hamidiye Vocational School of Health Services, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Nurhayat Barlas
- Science Faculty, Department of Biology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Nuriye Nuray Ulusu
- School of Medicine, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Koc University, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Istanbul, Türkiye
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12
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Laws MJ, Meling DD, Deviney ARK, Santacruz-Márquez R, Flaws JA. Long-term exposure to di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, diisononyl phthalate, and a mixture of phthalates alters estrous cyclicity and/or impairs gestational index and birth rate in mice. Toxicol Sci 2023; 193:48-61. [PMID: 36929940 PMCID: PMC10176245 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfad030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Phthalates are found in plastic food containers, medical plastics, and personal care products. However, the effects of long-term phthalate exposure on female reproduction are unknown. Thus, this study investigated the effects of long-term, dietary phthalate exposure on estrous cyclicity and fertility in female mice. Adult female CD-1 mice were fed chow containing vehicle control (corn oil) or 0.15-1500 ppm of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), diisononyl phthalate (DiNP), or a mixture of phthalates (Mix) containing DEHP, DiNP, benzyl butyl phthalate, di-n-butyl phthalate, diisobutyl phthalate, and diethyl phthalate. Measurements of urinary phthalate metabolites confirmed effective delivery of phthalates. Phthalate consumption for 11 months did not affect body weight compared to control. DEHP exposure at 0.15 ppm for 3 and 5 months increased the time that the mice spent in estrus and decreased the time the mice spent in metestrus/diestrus compared to control. DiNP exposure (0.15-1500 ppm) did not significantly affect time in estrus or metestrus/diestrus compared to control. Mix exposure at 0.15 and 1500 ppm for 3 months decreased the time the mice spent in metestrus/diestrus and increased the time the mice spent in estrus compared to control. DEHP (0.15-1500 ppm) or Mix (0.15-1500 ppm) exposure did not affect fertility-related indices compared to control. However, long-term DiNP exposure at 1500 ppm significantly reduced gestational index and birth rate compared to control. These data indicate that chronic dietary exposure to phthalates alters estrous cyclicity, and long-term exposure to DiNP reduces gestational index and birth rate in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary J Laws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Daryl D Meling
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Ashley R K Deviney
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Ramsés Santacruz-Márquez
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA
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13
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Núñez-Sánchez MÁ, Jiménez-Méndez A, Suárez-Cortés M, Martínez-Sánchez MA, Sánchez-Solís M, Blanco-Carnero JE, Ruiz-Alcaraz AJ, Ramos-Molina B. Inherited Epigenetic Hallmarks of Childhood Obesity Derived from Prenatal Exposure to Obesogens. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20064711. [PMID: 36981620 PMCID: PMC10048338 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20064711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Childhood obesity has reached epidemic levels in developed countries and is becoming a major cause for concern in the developing world. The causes of childhood obesity are complex and multifactorial, involving the interaction between individual genetics and environmental and developmental factors. Among the environmental factors, there is a growing interest in understanding the possible relationship between the so-called environmental obesogens and the development of obesity in children. Exposure to these obesogens such as phthalates, bisphenol A, or parabens, has been identified as a promoter of obesity through different mechanisms such as the alteration of adipocyte development from mesenchymal progenitors, the interference with hormone receptors, and induced inflammation. However, less attention has been paid to the inheritance of epigenetic modifications due to maternal exposure to these compounds during pregnancy. Thus, the aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge of epigenetic modifications due to maternal exposure to those obesogens during pregnancy as well as their potential implication on long-term obesity development in the offspring and transgenerational inheritance of epiphenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Á Núñez-Sánchez
- Obesity and Metabolism Research Laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB), 30120 Murcia, Spain
| | - Almudena Jiménez-Méndez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Virgen de la Arrixaca' University Clinical Hospital, 30120 Murcia, Spain
| | - María Suárez-Cortés
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, University of Murcia, El Palmar, 30120 Murcia, Spain
| | - María A Martínez-Sánchez
- Obesity and Metabolism Research Laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB), 30120 Murcia, Spain
| | - Manuel Sánchez-Solís
- Group of Pediatric Research, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB), 30120 Murcia, Spain
- Respiratory and Allergy Units, Arrixaca Children's University Hospital, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain
| | - José E Blanco-Carnero
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Virgen de la Arrixaca' University Clinical Hospital, 30120 Murcia, Spain
- Gynecology, Reproduction and Maternal-Fetal Medicine Research Group, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB), 30120 Murcia, Spain
| | - Antonio J Ruiz-Alcaraz
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology B and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Bruno Ramos-Molina
- Obesity and Metabolism Research Laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB), 30120 Murcia, Spain
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14
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Lapehn S, Houghtaling S, Ahuna K, Kadam L, MacDonald JW, Bammler TK, LeWinn KZ, Myatt L, Sathyanarayana S, Paquette AG. Mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate induces transcriptomic changes in placental cells based on concentration, fetal sex, and trophoblast cell type. Arch Toxicol 2023; 97:831-847. [PMID: 36695872 PMCID: PMC9968694 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-023-03444-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Phthalates are ubiquitous plasticizer chemicals found in consumer products. Exposure to phthalates during pregnancy has been associated with adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes and differences in placental gene expression in human studies. The objective of this research was to evaluate global changes in placental gene expression via RNA sequencing in two placental cell models following exposure to the phthalate metabolite mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP). HTR-8/SVneo and primary syncytiotrophoblast cells were exposed to three concentrations (1, 90, 180 µM) of MEHP for 24 h with DMSO (0.1%) as a vehicle control. mRNA and lncRNAs were quantified using paired-end RNA sequencing, followed by identification of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), significant KEGG pathways, and enriched transcription factors (TFs). MEHP caused gene expression changes across all concentrations for HTR-8/SVneo and primary syncytiotrophoblast cells. Sex-stratified analysis of primary cells identified different patterns of sensitivity in response to MEHP dose by sex, with male placentas being more responsive to MEHP exposure. Pathway analysis identified 11 KEGG pathways significantly associated with at least one concentration in both cell types. Four ligand-inducible nuclear hormone TFs (PPARG, PPARD, ESR1, AR) were enriched in at least three treatment groups. Overall, we demonstrated that MEHP differentially affects placental gene expression based on concentration, fetal sex, and trophoblast cell type. This study confirms prior studies, as enrichment of nuclear hormone receptor TFs were concordant with previously published mechanisms of phthalate disruption, and generates new hypotheses, as we identified many pathways and genes not previously linked to phthalate exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Lapehn
- Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, 1900 9th Ave, Jack R. MacDonald Building, Seattle, WA 98101 USA
| | - Scott Houghtaling
- Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, 1900 9th Ave, Jack R. MacDonald Building, Seattle, WA 98101 USA
| | - Kylia Ahuna
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239 USA
| | - Leena Kadam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239 USA
| | - James W. MacDonald
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| | - Theo K. Bammler
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| | - Kaja Z. LeWinn
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
| | - Leslie Myatt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239 USA
| | - Sheela Sathyanarayana
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
- Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101 USA
| | - Alison G. Paquette
- Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, 1900 9th Ave, Jack R. MacDonald Building, Seattle, WA 98101 USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
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15
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Pacyga DC, Patti MA, Papandonatos GD, Haggerty DK, Calafat AM, Gardiner JC, Braun JM, Schantz SL, Strakovsky RS. Associations of individual and cumulative urinary phthalate and replacement biomarkers with gestational weight gain through late pregnancy. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 855:158788. [PMID: 36116648 PMCID: PMC10088088 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Phthalates and their replacements are endocrine/metabolic disruptors that may impact gestational weight gain (GWG) - a pregnancy health indicator. We investigated overall and fetal sex-specific associations of individual and cumulative phthalate/replacement biomarkers with GWG. METHODS Illinois women (n = 299) self-reported their weight pre-pregnancy and at their final obstetric appointment before delivery (median 38 weeks). We calculated pre-pregnancy body mass index and gestational age-specific GWG z-scores (GWGz). We quantified 19 phthalate/replacement metabolites (representing 10 parent compounds) in pools of up-to-five first-morning urine samples, collected approximately monthly between 8 and 40 weeks gestation. We used linear regression, quantile-based g-computation (QGComp), and weighted quantile sum regression (WQSR) to evaluate associations of ten biomarkers (individual metabolites or parent molar-sums) individually or as mixtures (in interquartile range intervals) with GWGz. We evaluated associations in all women and stratified by fetal sex. RESULTS Individually, sums of metabolites of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (ƩDEHP), di(isononyl) cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylate (ƩDiNCH), and di(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate (ƩDEHTP) had consistent inverse associations with GWGz, and some associations were fetal sex-specific. When evaluating phthalates/replacements as a mixture, QGComp identified ƩDEHP, ƩDEHTP, and mono-(3-carboxypropyl) phthalate, along with sum of di(isononyl) phthalate metabolites (ƩDiNP) and monobenzyl phthalate as notable contributors to lower and higher GWGz, respectively, resulting in a marginal inverse joint association in all women (β: -0.29; 95% CI: -0.70, 0.12). In women carrying females, ƩDEHP contributed to the marginal inverse joint association (β: -0.54; 95% CI: -1.09, 0.03). However, there was no overall association in women carrying males (β: 0.00; 95% CI: -0.60, 0.59), which was explained by approximately equal negative (driven by ƩDEHTP) and positive (driven by ƩDiNP) partial associations. WQSR analyses consistently replicated these QGComp findings. CONCLUSIONS Biomarkers of phthalates/replacements were fetal sex-specifically associated with GWGz. Because ƩDEHTP contributed substantively to mixture associations, additional studies in pregnant women may be needed around this plasticizer replacement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana C Pacyga
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Marisa A Patti
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | | | - Diana K Haggerty
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Antonia M Calafat
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Joseph C Gardiner
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Joseph M Braun
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Susan L Schantz
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL 61802, USA; Beckman Institute, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL 61801, USA
| | - Rita S Strakovsky
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
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16
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Svoboda LK, Perera BPU, Morgan RK, Polemi KM, Pan J, Dolinoy DC. Toxicoepigenetics and Environmental Health: Challenges and Opportunities. Chem Res Toxicol 2022; 35:1293-1311. [PMID: 35876266 PMCID: PMC9812000 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.1c00445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The rapidly growing field of toxicoepigenetics seeks to understand how toxicant exposures interact with the epigenome to influence disease risk. Toxicoepigenetics is a promising field of environmental health research, as integrating epigenetics into the field of toxicology will enable a more thorough evaluation of toxicant-induced disease mechanisms as well as the elucidation of the role of the epigenome as a biomarker of exposure and disease and possible mediator of exposure effects. Likewise, toxicoepigenetics will enhance our knowledge of how environmental exposures, lifestyle factors, and diet interact to influence health. Ultimately, an understanding of how the environment impacts the epigenome to cause disease may inform risk assessment, permit noninvasive biomonitoring, and provide potential opportunities for therapeutic intervention. However, the translation of research from this exciting field into benefits for human and animal health presents several challenges and opportunities. Here, we describe four significant areas in which we see opportunity to transform the field and improve human health by reducing the disease burden caused by environmental exposures. These include (1) research into the mechanistic role for epigenetic change in environment-induced disease, (2) understanding key factors influencing vulnerability to the adverse effects of environmental exposures, (3) identifying appropriate biomarkers of environmental exposures and their associated diseases, and (4) determining whether the adverse effects of environment on the epigenome and human health are reversible through pharmacologic, dietary, or behavioral interventions. We then highlight several initiatives currently underway to address these challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurie K Svoboda
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Bambarendage P U Perera
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Rachel K Morgan
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Katelyn M Polemi
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Junru Pan
- Department Nutritional Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Dana C Dolinoy
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
- Department Nutritional Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
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17
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England-Mason G, Merrill SM, Gladish N, Moore SR, Giesbrecht GF, Letourneau N, MacIsaac JL, MacDonald AM, Kinniburgh DW, Ponsonby AL, Saffery R, Martin JW, Kobor MS, Dewey D. Prenatal exposure to phthalates and peripheral blood and buccal epithelial DNA methylation in infants: An epigenome-wide association study. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 163:107183. [PMID: 35325772 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal exposure to phthalates has been associated with adverse health and neurodevelopmental outcomes. DNA methylation (DNAm) alterations may be a mechanism underlying these effects, but prior investigations of prenatal exposure to phthalates and neonatal DNAm profiles are limited to placental tissue and umbilical cord blood. OBJECTIVE Conduct an epigenome-wide association study (EWAS) of the associations between prenatal exposure to phthalates and DNAm in two accessible infant tissues, venous buffy coat blood and buccal epithelial cells (BECs). METHODS Participants included 152 maternal-infant pairs from the Alberta Pregnancy Outcomes and Nutrition (APrON) study. Maternal second trimester urine samples were analyzed for nine phthalate metabolites. Blood (n = 74) or BECs (n = 78) were collected from 3-month-old infants and profiled for DNAm using the Infinium HumanMethylation450 (450K) BeadChip. Robust linear regressions were used to investigate the associations between high (HMWPs) and low molecular weight phthalates (LMWPs) and change in methylation levels at variable Cytosine-phosphate-Guanine (CpG) sites in infant tissues, as well as the sensitivity of associations to potential confounders. RESULTS One candidate CpG in gene RNF39 reported by a previous study examining prenatal exposure to phthalates and cord blood DNAm was replicated. The EWAS identified 12 high-confidence CpGs in blood and another 12 in BECs associated with HMWPs and/or LMWPs. Prenatal exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) associated with two of the CpGs associated with HMWPs in BECs. DISCUSSION Prenatal exposure to phthalates was associated with DNAm variation at CpGs annotated to genes associated with endocrine hormone activity (i.e., SLCO4A1, TPO), immune pathways and DNA damage (i.e., RASGEF1B, KAZN, HLA-A, MYO18A, DIP2C, C1or109), and neurodevelopment (i.e., AMPH, NOTCH3, DNAJC5). Future studies that characterize the stability of these associations in larger samples, multiple cohorts, across tissues, and investigate the potential associations between these biomarkers and relevant health and neurodevelopmental outcomes are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gillian England-Mason
- Department of Paediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Owerko Centre, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sarah M Merrill
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nicole Gladish
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sarah R Moore
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Gerald F Giesbrecht
- Department of Paediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Owerko Centre, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Nicole Letourneau
- Department of Paediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Owerko Centre, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Julia L MacIsaac
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Amy M MacDonald
- Alberta Centre for Toxicology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - David W Kinniburgh
- Alberta Centre for Toxicology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Anne-Louise Ponsonby
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Richard Saffery
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jonathan W Martin
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Södermanland, Sweden
| | - Michael S Kobor
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Program in Child and Brain Development, CIFAR, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Deborah Dewey
- Department of Paediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Owerko Centre, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
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A hypothesis: Retrotransposons as a relay of epigenetic marks in intergenerational epigenetic inheritance. Gene 2022; 817:146229. [PMID: 35063571 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2022.146229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic marks in gametes, which both respond to the parental environmental factors and shape offspring phenotypes, are usually positioned to mediate intergenerational or transgenerational epigenetic inheritance. Nonetheless, the mechanisms through which gametic epigenetic signatures encode parental acquired phenotypes, and further initiate a cascade of molecular events to affect offspring phenotypes during early embryonic development, remain unclear. Retrotransposons are mobile DNA elements that could resist to genomic epigenetic reprogramming at specific loci and rewire the core regulatory networks of embryogenesis. Increasing evidences show that retrotransposons in the embryonic genome could interact with gametic epigenetic marks, which provides a tentative possibility that retrotransposons may serve as a relay of gametic epigenetic marks to transmit parental acquired traits. Here, we summarize the recent progress in exploring the crosstalk between gametic epigenetic marks and retrotransposons, and the regulation of gene expression and early embryonic development by retrotransposons. Accordingly, deciphering the mystery of interactions between gametic epigenetic marks and retrotransposons during early embryonic development will provide valuable insights into the intergenerational or transgenerational transmission of acquired traits.
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Kupsco A, Wu H, Calafat AM, Kioumourtzoglou MA, Cantoral A, Tamayo-Ortiz M, Pantic I, Pizano-Zárate ML, Oken E, Braun JM, Deierlein AL, Wright RO, Téllez-Rojo MM, Baccarelli AA, Just AC. Prenatal maternal phthalate exposures and trajectories of childhood adiposity from four to twelve years. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 204:112111. [PMID: 34563522 PMCID: PMC8678304 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Adiposity trajectories reflect dynamic process of growth and may predict later life health better than individual measures. Prenatal phthalate exposures may program later childhood adiposity, but findings from studies examining these associations are conflicting. We investigated associations between phthalate biomarker concentrations during pregnancy with child adiposity trajectories. METHODS We followed 514 mother-child pairs from the Mexico City PROGRESS cohort from pregnancy through twelve years. We measured concentrations of nine phthalate biomarkers in 2nd and 3rd trimester maternal urine samples to create a pregnancy average using the geometric mean. We measured child BMI z-score, fat mass index (FMI), and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) at three study visits between four and 12 years of age. We identified adiposity trajectories using multivariate latent class growth modeling, considering BMI z-score, FMI, and WHtR as joint indicators of latent adiposity. We estimated associations of phthalates biomarkers with class membership using multinomial logistic regression. We used quantile g-computation to estimate the potential effect of the total phthalate mixture and assessed effect modification by sex. RESULTS We identified three trajectories of child adiposity, a "low-stable", a "low-high", and a "high-high" group. A doubling of the sum of di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate metabolites (ΣDEHP), was associated with 1.53 (1.08, 2.19) greater odds of being in the "high-high" trajectory in comparison to the "low-stable" group, whereas a doubling in di-isononyl phthalate metabolites (ΣDiNP) was associated with 1.43 (1.02, 2.02) greater odds of being in the "low-high" trajectory and mono (carboxy-isononyl) phthalate (MCNP) was associated with 0.66 (0.45, 97) lower odds of being in the "low-high" trajectory. No sex-specific associations or mixture associations were observed. CONCLUSIONS Prenatal concentrations of urinary DEHP metabolites, DiNP metabolites, and MCNP, a di-isodecyl phthalate metabolite, were associated with trajectories of child adiposity. The total phthalate mixture was not associated with early life child adiposity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Kupsco
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Haotian Wu
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Antonia M Calafat
- National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Marianthi-Anna Kioumourtzoglou
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Marcela Tamayo-Ortiz
- Occupational Health Research Unit, Mexican Social Security Institute, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ivan Pantic
- National Institute of Perinatology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Emily Oken
- Division of Chronic Disease Research Across the Lifecourse, Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joseph M Braun
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Andrea L Deierlein
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robert O Wright
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Martha M Téllez-Rojo
- Center for Research on Nutrition and Health, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Andrea A Baccarelli
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Allan C Just
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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Ravichandran G, Lakshmanan DK, Arunachalam A, Thilagar S. Food obesogens as emerging metabolic disruptors; A toxicological insight. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2022; 217:106042. [PMID: 34890825 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2021.106042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Human food is composed of loads of chemicals derived naturally as well as unintentionally through environmental sources. Food additives added purposefully, play an important role in the palatability of foods. Most additives are synthetic whose essentiality in food processing is well-known however their health risks are not overlooked. The palatability of food should not only stimulate our eating desire alone but, also assure sufficient quality and safety. Application of food additives varies from region to region due to cultural or ethnic differences and the local food availability. There are about more than ten thousand chemicals allowed in food whereas due to weak enforcement, it becomes onerous for regulatory bodies identifying chemicals that are inadequately or not tested at all for safety. The hiking population and urbanization in many industrialized and developing countries resulted in life-style changes including culinary and eating choices. Particularly, the modern way of this globalised life demands ready-to-cook or ready-made foods, snacks, sweets, soft drinks, desserts, confectionery and so on. These sorts of food would be most uninteresting unless processed with additives. This puts food industries under demand to robustly supply foods that are either partially, fully or ultra-processed using plenty of additives. Recent research warns consuming food additives may result in serious health risks, not only for children but also for adults. Growing body of studies on food additives in various experimental animals, cell cultures, and human population suggest elevation of number of obesity and diabetes risk factors i.e. adiposity, dyslipidemia, weight gain, hyperglycaemia, insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, energy imbalance, hormonal intervention etc. Hence, it is important to identify and explore food obesogens or obesogenic food additives posing potential impact. Based on the recent toxicological findings, the review aspires to establish the association between exposure of food obesogen and metabolic disruption which may help filling knowledge gaps and distributing more knowledge, awareness and effective measures to implement treatment and preventive strategies for metabolic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guna Ravichandran
- Department of Environmental Biotechnology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, India
| | - Dinesh Kumar Lakshmanan
- Department of Environmental Biotechnology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, India; Department of Biotechnology, Bannari Amman Institute of Technology, Sathyamangalam, Erode, India
| | - Abirami Arunachalam
- Department of Environmental Biotechnology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, India
| | - Sivasudha Thilagar
- Department of Environmental Biotechnology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, India.
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21
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Chang CH, Tsai YA, Huang YF, Tsai MS, Hou JW, Lin CL, Wang PW, Huang LW, Chen CY, Wu CF, Hsieh CJ, Wu MT, Wang SL, Chen ML. The sex-specific association of prenatal phthalate exposure with low birth weight and small for gestational age: A nationwide survey by the Taiwan Maternal and Infant Cohort Study (TMICS). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 806:151261. [PMID: 34715222 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The Taiwan Maternal and Infant Cohort Study (TMICS) was launched with the aim to assess the effects of prenatal exposure to phthalic acid esters (PAEs) on infant health. A total of 1102 pregnant women were enrolled in this study from 2012 to 2015. All participants completed a structured questionnaire, and provided urine specimens. The urinary concentrations of PAE metabolites in the third trimester were measured using liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. Generalized additive model-penalized regression splines and logistic regression models were employed to determine the risk for low birth weight (LBW) or small for gestational age (SGA) among pregnant women exposed to PAEs. After adjustments for other covariates, each incremental unit of ln-transformed mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP) for pregnant women increased the odds of SGA in male neonates by 1.44 (95% CI: 0.92-2.23). An inverse association between SGA and maternal MnBP exposure level was observed in female neonates. An increase in one ln-transformed MnBP concentration unit decreased the risk of female SGA to 0.50 (95% CI: 0.24-0.97). In the penalized regression splines, increased risks of LBW/SGA in male neonates were presented while pregnant women exposed to increased MnBP levels. However, an association in the opposite direction was observed between maternal MnBP and LBW or SGA for male and female neonates. This study indicated that high maternal MnBP exposure in the third trimester was associated with LBW or SGA for male infants. Adverse effects on susceptible populations exposed to high levels of PAEs should be of concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Huang Chang
- School of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Ph.D. Program in Global Health and Health Security, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yen-An Tsai
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Fang Huang
- Department of Safety, Health and Environmental Engineering, National United University, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Song Tsai
- Department of OBS & GYN, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Woei Hou
- Department of Pediatrics, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Ling Lin
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Wei Wang
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Pediatrics, Taipei City Hospital, Heping Fuyou Branch, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Wei Huang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Taipei City Hospital, Heping Fuyou Branch, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Yao Chen
- Division of Obstetrics and High Risk Pregnancy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Fang Wu
- Research Center for Environmental Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; International Master Program of Translational Medicine, National United University, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Jung Hsieh
- Department of Public Health, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Tsang Wu
- Research Center for Environmental Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Li Wang
- Division of Environmental Health & Occupational Medicine, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan.
| | - Mei-Lien Chen
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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23
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Bertozzi TM, Becker JL, Blake GET, Bansal A, Nguyen DK, Fernandez-Twinn DS, Ozanne SE, Bartolomei MS, Simmons RA, Watson ED, Ferguson-Smith AC. Variably methylated retrotransposons are refractory to a range of environmental perturbations. Nat Genet 2021; 53:1233-1242. [PMID: 34326545 PMCID: PMC7611517 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-021-00898-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The agouti viable yellow (Avy) allele is an insertional mutation in the mouse genome caused by a variably methylated intracisternal A particle (VM-IAP) retrotransposon. Avy expressivity is sensitive to a range of early-life chemical exposures and nutritional interventions, suggesting that environmental perturbations can have long-lasting effects on the methylome. However, the extent to which VM-IAP elements are environmentally labile with phenotypic implications is unknown. Using a recently identified repertoire of VM-IAPs, we assessed the epigenetic effects of different environmental contexts. A longitudinal aging analysis indicated that VM-IAPs are stable across the murine lifespan, with only small increases in DNA methylation detected for a subset of loci. No significant effects were observed after maternal exposure to the endocrine disruptor bisphenol A, an obesogenic diet or methyl donor supplementation. A genetic mouse model of abnormal folate metabolism exhibited shifted VM-IAP methylation levels and altered VM-IAP-associated gene expression, yet these effects are likely largely driven by differential targeting by polymorphic KRAB zinc finger proteins. We conclude that epigenetic variability at retrotransposons is not predictive of environmental susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Georgina E T Blake
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Amita Bansal
- Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Australian National University Medical School, John Curtin School of Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Duy K Nguyen
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, Epigenetics Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Denise S Fernandez-Twinn
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories and Medical Research Council Metabolic Diseases Unit, Wellcome Trust Medical Research Council Institute of Metabolic Science, Cambridge, UK
| | - Susan E Ozanne
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories and Medical Research Council Metabolic Diseases Unit, Wellcome Trust Medical Research Council Institute of Metabolic Science, Cambridge, UK
| | - Marisa S Bartolomei
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, Epigenetics Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Rebecca A Simmons
- Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Erica D Watson
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Anne C Ferguson-Smith
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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24
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Robles-Matos N, Artis T, Simmons RA, Bartolomei MS. Environmental Exposure to Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals Influences Genomic Imprinting, Growth, and Metabolism. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:1153. [PMID: 34440327 PMCID: PMC8393470 DOI: 10.3390/genes12081153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Genomic imprinting is an epigenetic mechanism that results in monoallelic, parent-of-origin-specific expression of a small number of genes. Imprinted genes play a crucial role in mammalian development as their dysregulation result in an increased risk of human diseases. DNA methylation, which undergoes dynamic changes early in development, is one of the epigenetic marks regulating imprinted gene expression patterns during early development. Thus, environmental insults, including endocrine disrupting chemicals during critical periods of fetal development, can alter DNA methylation patterns, leading to inappropriate developmental gene expression and disease risk. Here, we summarize the current literature on the impacts of in utero exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals on genomic imprinting and metabolism in humans and rodents. We evaluate how early-life environmental exposures are a potential risk factor for adult metabolic diseases. We also introduce our mouse model of phthalate exposure. Finally, we describe the potential of genomic imprinting to serve as an environmental sensor during early development and as a novel biomarker for postnatal health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Robles-Matos
- Epigenetics Institute, Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 9-122 Smilow Center for Translational Research, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
| | - Tre Artis
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - Rebecca A. Simmons
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 1308 Biomedical Research Building II/III, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
| | - Marisa S. Bartolomei
- Epigenetics Institute, Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 9-122 Smilow Center for Translational Research, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
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25
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Xu X, Qu Z, Qian H, Li Z, Sun X, Zhao X, Li H. Ginsenoside Rg1 ameliorates reproductive function injury in C57BL/6J mice induced by di-N-butyl-phthalate. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2021; 36:789-799. [PMID: 33331133 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
With the aggravation of environmental pollution, the incidence of infertility is increasing. Ginsenoside Rg1 is a monomer component extracted from Panax ginseng. It has been found that Ginsenoside Rg1 is able to prevent premature ovarian failure and delay testicular senescence. Therefore, we speculate Ginsenoside Rg1 may have great potential to prevent and treat infertility. The aim of this work is to explore whether Ginsenoside Rg1 plays a protective role in the dinbutyl phthalate (DBP)-induced reproductive function injury mice, and to elucidate the potential mechanism. C57BL/6J male mice were administered by DBP with or without Ginsenoside Rg1 treatment and serum, testis and epididymis were collected for further analysis. Sperm analysis, hematoxylin and eosin staining, and serum hormone detection indicated that Ginsenoside Rg1 treatment improved the sperm density and sperm motility, reduced the testicular tissue damage, increased the serum testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels, and decreased the serum follicle-stimulating hormone level in DBP-induced mice. Furthermore, Ginsenoside Rg1 treatment upregulated expression levels of spermatogenesis-related protein, Cx43, E-cadherin, p-PI3K, p-Akt, and mTOR in the mice treated by DBP, observed by using a immunohistochemistry assay, a real-time quantitative PCR assay, and a western blot analysis. The present study reveals that Ginsenoside Rg1 may exert anti-DBP-induced reproductive function injury in C57BL/6J mice. In addition, the protect role of Ginsenoside Rg1 in spermatogenesis may be associated with the regulation of reproductive hormones, upregulation of spermatogenic associated proteins expression, restoration of the gap junctions, and the activation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolei Xu
- School of Public Health, Beihua University, Jilin, China
| | - Zhenting Qu
- Department of Pediatrics, Jilin Combine Traditional Chinese and Western Hospital, Jilin, China
| | - Honghao Qian
- School of Public Health, Beihua University, Jilin, China
| | - Zhongming Li
- School of Public Health, Beihua University, Jilin, China
| | - Xiuling Sun
- School of Public Health, Beihua University, Jilin, China
| | - Xinrui Zhao
- Department of Iodine Deficiency Disorders, The Second Institue for Endemic Disease Control and Prevention of Jilin Province, Jilin, China
| | - Huan Li
- School of Public Health, Beihua University, Jilin, China
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Early Life Exposure to Aflatoxin B1 in Rats: Alterations in Lipids, Hormones, and DNA Methylation among the Offspring. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18020589. [PMID: 33445757 PMCID: PMC7828191 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18020589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Aflatoxins are toxic compounds produced by molds of the Aspergillus species that contaminate food primarily in tropical countries. The most toxic aflatoxin, aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), is a major cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in these countries. In sub-Saharan Africa, aflatoxin contamination is common, and perinatal AFB1 exposure has been linked to the early onset of HCC. Epigenetic programming, including changes to DNA methylation, is one mechanism by which early life exposures can lead to adult disease. This study aims to elucidate whether perinatal AFB1 exposure alters markers of offspring health including weight, lipid, and hormone profiles as well as epigenetic regulation that may later influence cancer risk. Pregnant rats were exposed to two doses of AFB1 (low 0.5 and high 5 mg/kg) before conception, throughout pregnancy, and while weaning and compared to an unexposed group. Offspring from each group were followed to 3 weeks or 3 months of age, and their blood and liver samples were collected. Body weights and lipids were assessed at 3 weeks and 3 months while reproductive, gonadotropic, and thyroid hormones were assessed at 3 months. Prenatal AFB1 (high dose) exposure resulted in significant 16.3%, 31.6%, and 7.5% decreases in weight of the offspring at birth, 3 weeks, and 3 months, respectively. Both doses of exposure altered lipid and hormone profiles. Pyrosequencing was used to quantify percent DNA methylation at tumor suppressor gene Tp53 and growth-regulator H19 in DNA from liver and blood. Results were compared between the control and AFB1 exposure groups in 3-week liver samples and 3-week and 3-month blood samples. Relative to controls, Tp53 DNA methylation in both low- and high-dose exposed rats was significantly decreased in liver samples and increased in the blood (p < 0.05 in linear mixed models). H19 methylation was higher in the liver from low- and high-exposed rats and decreased in 3-month blood samples from the high exposure group (p < 0.05). Further research is warranted to determine whether such hormone, lipid, and epigenetic alterations from AFB1 exposure early in life play a role in the development of early-onset HCC.
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Zettergren A, Andersson N, Larsson K, Kull I, Melén E, Georgelis A, Berglund M, Lindh C, Bergström A. Exposure to environmental phthalates during preschool age and obesity from childhood to young adulthood. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 192:110249. [PMID: 32980305 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.110249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Obesity rates are increasing globally, and recent theories suggest that phthalates may contribute to obesity development. This longitudinal study aimed to investigate associations between environmental phthalate exposure during childhood and obesity, utilizing data from 100 participants from a Swedish birth cohort. The participants were followed repeatedly from birth and provided spot urine samples at 4 years. Weight and height were measured at ages 4, 8, 16 and 24 years, as well as additional anthropometric indices at 24 years. Urine samples were analysed for 10 phthalate metabolites using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Generalized estimating equation models were performed to assess overall and age-specific associations between urinary phthalate concentrations and BMI groups; thin/normal weight vs overweight/obese. After adjustment for potential confounders, overall associations were observed for diisononyl phthalate (DiNP) metabolites mono(oxo-isononyl) phthalate (MOiNP) (OR per increase ng/ml: 1.18; 95% CI: 1.05, 1.33), mono(carboxy-isooctyl) phthalate (MCiOP) (OR: 1.06; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.11) and ∑DiNP (OR: 1.02; 95% CI:1.00, 1.04) and development of overweight/obesity up to age 24 years. Age-specific associations were observed for the same metabolites at 8, 16 and 24 years. Furthermore, linear regression analysis revealed associations between increased body fat % at age 24 years and MHiNP (β: 2.42; 95% CI: 0.44, 4.39), MOiNP (β: 2.32; 95% CI: 0.46, 4.18), MCiOP (β: 2.65; 95% CI: 0.41, 4.89) and ∑DiNP (β: 2.65; 95% CI: 0.52, 4.77). These findings suggest that DiNP exposure during preschool age may be associated with subsequent obesity, however these findings need to be corroborated by further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Zettergren
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Niklas Andersson
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Kristin Larsson
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Inger Kull
- Sachs' Children and Youth Hospital, Södersjukhuset, SE 118 61, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Science and Education, Södersjukhuset, Karolinska Institutet, SE 118 83, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Erik Melén
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden; Sachs' Children and Youth Hospital, Södersjukhuset, SE 118 61, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Science and Education, Södersjukhuset, Karolinska Institutet, SE 118 83, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Antonios Georgelis
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Stockholm County Council, SE 113 65, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Marika Berglund
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Christian Lindh
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, SE 223 63, Lund, Sweden.
| | - Anna Bergström
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, SE 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden; Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Stockholm County Council, SE 113 65, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Liu S, Wang K, Svoboda LK, Rygiel CA, Neier K, Jones TR, Cavalcante RG, Colacino JA, Dolinoy DC, Sartor MA. Perinatal DEHP exposure induces sex- and tissue-specific DNA methylation changes in both juvenile and adult mice. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2021; 7:dvab004. [PMID: 33986952 PMCID: PMC8107644 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvab004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a type of phthalate plasticizer found in a variety of consumer products and poses a public health concern due to its metabolic and endocrine disruption activities. Dysregulation of epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, has been shown to be an important mechanism for the pathogenic effects of prenatal exposures, including phthalates. In this study, we used an established mouse model to study the effect of perinatal DEHP exposure on the DNA methylation profile in liver (a primary target tissue of DEHP) and blood (a common surrogate tissue) of both juvenile and adult mice. Despite exposure ceasing at 3 weeks of age (PND21), we identified thousands of sex-specific differential DNA methylation events in 5-month old mice, more than identified at PND21, both in blood and liver. Only a small number of these differentially methylated cytosines (DMCs) overlapped between the time points, or between tissues (i.e. liver and blood), indicating blood may not be an appropriate surrogate tissue to estimate the effects of DEHP exposure on liver DNA methylation. We detected sex-specific DMCs common between 3-week and 5-month samples, pointing to specific DNA methylation alterations that are consistent between weanling and adult mice. In summary, this is the first study to assess the genome-wide DNA methylation profiles in liver and blood at two different aged cohorts in response to perinatal DEHP exposure. Our findings cast light on the implications of using surrogate tissue instead of target tissue in human population-based studies and identify epigenetic biomarkers for DEHP exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Liu
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, 500 S State St., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, 500 S State St., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Laurie K Svoboda
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 500 S State St., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Christine A Rygiel
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 500 S State St., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Kari Neier
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 500 S State St., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Tamara R Jones
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 500 S State St., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Raymond G Cavalcante
- Epigenomics Core, University of Michigan, 500 S State St., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Justin A Colacino
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 500 S State St., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Nutritional Sciences, University of Michigan, 500 S State St., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Dana C Dolinoy
- Correspondence address. Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA. Tel: +734-647-3155; Fax: +734-936-7283; E-mail: (D.C.D.); Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, 100 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2218, USA . Tel: +734-763-8013; Fax: +734-615-6553; E-mail: (M.A.S.)
| | - Maureen A Sartor
- Correspondence address. Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA. Tel: +734-647-3155; Fax: +734-936-7283; E-mail: (D.C.D.); Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, 100 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2218, USA . Tel: +734-763-8013; Fax: +734-615-6553; E-mail: (M.A.S.)
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Neier K, Montrose L, Chen K, Malloy MA, Jones TR, Svoboda LK, Harris C, Song PXK, Pennathur S, Sartor MA, Dolinoy DC. Short- and long-term effects of perinatal phthalate exposures on metabolic pathways in the mouse liver. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2020; 6:dvaa017. [PMID: 33391822 PMCID: PMC7757125 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvaa017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Phthalates have been demonstrated to interfere with metabolism, presumably by interacting with peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs). However, mechanisms linking developmental phthalate exposures to long-term metabolic effects have not yet been elucidated. We investigated the hypothesis that developmental phthalate exposure has long-lasting impacts on PPAR target gene expression and DNA methylation to influence hepatic metabolic profiles across the life course. We utilized an established longitudinal mouse model of perinatal exposures to diethylhexyl phthalate and diisononyl phthalate, and a mixture of diethylhexyl phthalate+diisononyl phthalate. Exposure was through the diet and spanned from 2 weeks before mating until weaning at postnatal day 21 (PND21). Liver tissue was analyzed from the offspring of exposed and control mice at PND21 and in another cohort of exposed and control mice at 10 months of age. RNA-seq and pathway enrichment analyses indicated that acetyl-CoA metabolic processes were altered in diisononyl phthalate-exposed female livers at both PND21 and 10 months (FDR = 0.0018). Within the pathway, all 13 significant genes were potential PPAR target genes. Promoter DNA methylation was altered at three candidate genes, but persistent effects were only observed for Fasn. Targeted metabolomics indicated that phthalate-exposed females had decreased acetyl-CoA at PND21 and increased acetyl-CoA and acylcarnitines at 10 months. Together, our data suggested that perinatal phthalate exposures were associated with short- and long-term activation of PPAR target genes, which manifested as increased fatty acid production in early postnatal life and increased fatty acid oxidation in adulthood. This presents a novel molecular pathway linking developmental phthalate exposures and metabolic health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kari Neier
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 1415 Washington Heights 48109 MI, USA
| | - Luke Montrose
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 1415 Washington Heights 48109 MI, USA
| | - Kathleen Chen
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 1415 Washington Heights 48109 MI, USA
| | - Maureen A Malloy
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 1415 Washington Heights 48109 MI, USA
| | - Tamara R Jones
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 1415 Washington Heights 48109 MI, USA
| | - Laurie K Svoboda
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 1415 Washington Heights 48109 MI, USA
| | - Craig Harris
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 1415 Washington Heights 48109 MI, USA
| | - Peter X K Song
- Biostatistics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 1415 Washington Heights 48109 MI, USA
| | - Subramaniam Pennathur
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 1500 East Medical Center Drive 48109 MI, USA
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 1137 E. Catherine St. 48109 MI, USA
| | - Maureen A Sartor
- Biostatistics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 1415 Washington Heights 48109 MI, USA
- Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 100 Washtenaw Avenue 48109 MI, USA
| | - Dana C Dolinoy
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 1415 Washington Heights 48109 MI, USA
- Nutritional Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 1415 Washington Heights 48109 MI, USA
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Chang CH, Chen CF, Tsai YA, Wang SL, Huang PC, Chen BH, Wu MT, Chen CC, Hsiung CA, Chen ML. The sex-specific association of phthalate exposure with DNA methylation and characteristics of body fat in children. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 737:139833. [PMID: 32526583 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.139833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The present study assessed the association between phthalate exposure and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) polymerase γ (POLG) methylation along with the potential effect on the characteristics of body fat in children. A total of 152 children were enrolled. The urinary concentrations of phthalate metabolites were measured using ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Genomic DNA was extracted from the buffy coat, and bisulfite-treated DNA was subjected to a pyrosequencing assay. In total, 17 CpG sites in the exon 2 region of POLG were included in the analysis. A multivariable regression model was applied to determine whether characteristics of body fat were associated with phthalate exposure and methylation of POLG. After adjustment for covariates, male children with a ten-fold increase in mono-methyl phthalate (MMP) or mono-benzyl phthalate (MBzP) concentrations had significantly higher measurements for total body fat (MMP: β = 6.47%; MBzP: β = 3.54%), and trunk fat (MMP: β = 6.67%; MBzP: β = 3.90%). Male children who had hypermethylation at the 2nd CpG site in exon 2 of POLG also had high measurements for BMI (β = 1.66 kg/m2), waist (β = 4.49 cm) and hip (β = 4.81 cm) circumference, total body fat (β = 5.48%), and trunk fat (β = 6.21%). A dose-response relationship existed between methylation at the 2nd CpG site in exon 2 of POLG and characteristics of body fat (p for trend<0.01). This study suggested that male children who are exposed to phthalic acid esters have high body weight, BMI, and body and trunk fat percentages. Methylation of the exon 2 region of POLG is a possible mechanism behind the causal effect of endocrine-disrupting substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Huang Chang
- School of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chian-Feng Chen
- VYM Genome Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yen-An Tsai
- Health Technology Center, College of Health Care and Management, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Li Wang
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Po-Chin Huang
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Bai-Hsiun Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Tsang Wu
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chu-Chih Chen
- Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Population Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Chao Agnes Hsiung
- Institute of Population Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan.
| | - Mei-Lien Chen
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Svoboda LK, Wang K, Cavalcante RG, Neier K, Colacino JA, Sartor MA, Dolinoy DC. Sex-Specific Programming of Cardiac DNA Methylation by Developmental Phthalate Exposure. Epigenet Insights 2020; 13:2516865720939971. [PMID: 32864567 PMCID: PMC7430087 DOI: 10.1177/2516865720939971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Phthalate plasticizers are ubiquitous chemicals linked to several cardiovascular diseases in animal models and humans. Despite this, the mechanisms by which phthalate exposures cause adverse cardiac health outcomes are unclear. In particular, whether phthalate exposures during pregnancy interfere with normal developmental programming of the cardiovascular system, and the resulting implications this may have for long-term disease risk, are unknown. Recent studies suggest that the effects of phthalates on metabolic and neurobehavioral outcomes are sex-specific. However, the influence of sex on cardiac susceptibility to phthalate exposures has not been investigated. One mechanism by which developmental exposures may influence long-term health is through altered programming of DNA methylation. In this work, we utilized an established mouse model of human-relevant perinatal exposure and enhanced reduced representation bisulfite sequencing to investigate the long-term effects of diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) exposure on DNA methylation in the hearts of adult male and female offspring at 5 months of age (n = 5-7 mice per sex and exposure). Perinatal DEHP exposure led to hundreds of sex-specific, differentially methylated cytosines (DMCs) and differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in the heart. Pathway analysis of DMCs revealed enrichment for several pathways in females, including insulin signaling, regulation of histone methylation, and tyrosine phosphatase activity. In males, DMCs were enriched for glucose transport, energy generation, and developmental programs. Notably, many sex-specific genes differentially methylated with DEHP exposure in our mouse model were also differentially methylated in published data of heart tissues collected from human heart failure patients. Together, these data highlight the potential role for DNA methylation in DEHP-induced cardiac effects and emphasize the importance of sex as a biological variable in environmental health studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurie K Svoboda
- Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Raymond G Cavalcante
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kari Neier
- Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Justin A Colacino
- Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Nutritional Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Maureen A Sartor
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Dana C Dolinoy
- Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Nutritional Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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32
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Bertozzi TM, Ferguson-Smith AC. Metastable epialleles and their contribution to epigenetic inheritance in mammals. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2020; 97:93-105. [PMID: 31551132 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2019.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Many epigenetic differences between individuals are driven by genetic variation. Mammalian metastable epialleles are unusual in that they show variable DNA methylation states between genetically identical individuals. The occurrence of such states across generations has resulted in their consideration by many as strong evidence for epigenetic inheritance in mammals, with the classic Avy and AxinFu mouse models - each products of repeat element insertions - being the most widely accepted examples. Equally, there has been interest in exploring their use as epigenetic biosensors given their susceptibility to environmental compromise. Here we review the classic murine metastable epialleles as well as more recently identified candidates, with the aim of providing a more holistic understanding of their biology. We consider the extent to which epigenetic inheritance occurs at metastable epialleles and explore the limited mechanistic insights into the establishment of their variable epigenetic states. We discuss their environmental modulation and their potential relevance in genome regulation. In light of recent whole-genome screens for novel metastable epialleles, we point out the need to reassess their biological relevance in multi-generational studies and we highlight their value as a model to study repeat element silencing as well as the mechanisms and consequences of mammalian epigenetic stochasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa M Bertozzi
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EH, UK
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Perera BP, Faulk C, Svoboda LK, Goodrich JM, Dolinoy DC. The role of environmental exposures and the epigenome in health and disease. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2020; 61:176-192. [PMID: 31177562 PMCID: PMC7252203 DOI: 10.1002/em.22311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The genetic material of every organism exists within the context of regulatory networks that govern gene expression, collectively called the epigenome. Epigenetics has taken center stage in the study of diseases such as cancer and diabetes, but its integration into the field of environmental health is still emerging. As the Environmental Mutagenesis and Genomics Society (EMGS) celebrates its 50th Anniversary this year, we have come together to review and summarize the seminal advances in the field of environmental epigenomics. Specifically, we focus on the role epigenetics may play in multigenerational and transgenerational transmission of environmentally induced health effects. We also summarize state of the art techniques for evaluating the epigenome, environmental epigenetic analysis, and the emerging field of epigenome editing. Finally, we evaluate transposon epigenetics as they relate to environmental exposures and explore the role of noncoding RNA as biomarkers of environmental exposures. Although the field has advanced over the past several decades, including being recognized by EMGS with its own Special Interest Group, recently renamed Epigenomics, we are excited about the opportunities for environmental epigenetic science in the next 50 years. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 61:176-192, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bambarendage P.U. Perera
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Christopher Faulk
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota
| | - Laurie K. Svoboda
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Jaclyn M. Goodrich
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Dana C. Dolinoy
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Correspondence to: Dana C. Dolinoy, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
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Role of Obesogens in the Pathogenesis of Obesity. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 55:medicina55090515. [PMID: 31438630 PMCID: PMC6780315 DOI: 10.3390/medicina55090515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 08/11/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Obesity is considered to be a 20th century pandemic, and its prevalence correlates with the increasing global pollution and the presence of chemical compounds in the environment. Excessive adiposity results from an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure, but it is not merely an effect of overeating and lack of physical activity. Recently, several compounds that alter the mechanisms responsible for energy homeostasis have been identified and called "obesogens". This work presents the role of obesogens in the pathogenesis of obesity. We reviewed data from in vitro animal and human studies concerning the role of obesogens in the disturbance of energy homeostasis. We identified (i) the main groups and classes of obesogens, (ii) the molecular mechanisms of their action, (iii) their deleterious effect on adipose tissue function and control of appetite, and (iv) possible directions in limiting their influence on human metabolism. Obesogens have a multifactorial detrimental influence on energy homeostasis. Focusing on limiting exposure to obesogens and improving early life nutrition seems to be the most reasonable direction of action to prevent obesity in future generations.
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35
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Neier K, Cheatham D, Bedrosian LD, Gregg BE, Song PXK, Dolinoy DC. Longitudinal Metabolic Impacts of Perinatal Exposure to Phthalates and Phthalate Mixtures in Mice. Endocrinology 2019; 160:1613-1630. [PMID: 31125050 PMCID: PMC6589074 DOI: 10.1210/en.2019-00287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Developmental exposures to phthalates are suspected to contribute to risk of metabolic syndrome. However, findings from human studies are inconsistent, and long-term metabolic impacts of early-life phthalate and phthalate mixture exposures are not fully understood. Furthermore, most animal studies investigating metabolic impacts of developmental phthalate exposures have focused on diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), whereas newer phthalates, such as diisononyl phthalate (DINP), are understudied. We used a longitudinal mouse model to evaluate long-term metabolic impacts of perinatal exposures to three individual phthalates, DEHP, DINP, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP), as well as two mixtures (DEHP+DINP and DEHP+DINP+DBP). Phthalates were administered to pregnant and lactating females through phytoestrogen-free chow at the following exposure levels: 25 mg of DEHP/kg of chow, 25 mg of DBP/kg of chow, and 75 mg of DINP/kg of chow. One male and female per litter (n = 9 to 13 per sex per group) were weaned onto control chow and followed until 10 months of age. They underwent metabolic phenotyping at 2 and 8 months, and adipokines were measured in plasma collected at 10 months. Longitudinally, females perinatally exposed to DEHP only had increased body fat percentage and decreased lean mass percentage, whereas females perinatally exposed to DINP only had impaired glucose tolerance. Perinatal phthalate exposures also modified the relationship between body fat percentage and plasma adipokine levels at 10 months in females. Phthalate-exposed males did not exhibit statistically significant differences in the measured longitudinal metabolic outcomes. Surprisingly, perinatal phthalate mixture exposures were statistically significantly associated with few metabolic effects and were not associated with larger effects than single exposures, revealing complexities in metabolic effects of developmental phthalate mixture exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kari Neier
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Drew Cheatham
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Leah D Bedrosian
- Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Brigid E Gregg
- Pediatric Endocrinology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Peter X K Song
- Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Dana C Dolinoy
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Nutritional Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Correspondence: Dana C. Dolinoy, PhD, Environmental Health Sciences and Nutritional Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109. E-mail:
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