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Fantone S, Tossetta G, Cianfruglia L, Frontini A, Armeni T, Procopio AD, Pugnaloni A, Gualtieri AF, Marzioni D. Mechanisms of action of mineral fibres in a placental syncytiotrophoblast model: An in vitro toxicology study. Chem Biol Interact 2024; 390:110895. [PMID: 38301883 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2024.110895] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Asbestos has been widely used due to its unique characteristics. It is known that exposure to asbestos causes serious damage to health but one species, chrysolite, is still used because it is considered less toxic and not biopersistent in some countries. The aim of our study was to investigate if cellular process underlying the proliferation, differentiation and cell death of placental tissues could be modify in presence of asbestos fibres (50 μg/ml final concentration), long chrysolite fibres (CHR-L) and short chrysolite fibres (CHR-S), using BeWo cell line, an in vitro model that mimics the syncytiotrophoblast (STB), the outer layer of placental villi. Our data demonstrated that none of the fibres analysed alter syncytiotrophoblast formation but all of them induce ROS formation and reduced cell proliferation. Moreover, we showed that only CHR-L fibre induced was able to induce irreversible DNA alterations that carried cells to apoptosis. In fact, BeWo cells exposed to CHR-L fibre showed a significant increase in cleaved CASP3 protein, a marker of apoptosis. These data suggest that CHR-L may induce death of the placental villi leading to impaired placental development. The impairment of placental development is the basis of many gestational pathologies such as preeclampsia and intrauterine growth retardation. Since these pathologies are very dangerous for foetal and maternal life, we suggest to the gynaecologists to carefully evaluate the area of maternal residence, the working environment, the food used, and the materials used daily to avoid contact with these fibres as much as possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Fantone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Tossetta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Laura Cianfruglia
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60126, Ancona, Italy
| | - Andrea Frontini
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Tatiana Armeni
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60126, Ancona, Italy
| | - Antonio D Procopio
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, DISCLIMO, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Clinical Laboratory and Molecular Diagnostic, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
| | - Armanda Pugnaloni
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, DISCLIMO, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Alessandro F Gualtieri
- Chemical and Earth Sciences Department, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniela Marzioni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy.
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2
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Choi JK, Vigliaturo R, Gieré R, Pérez-Rodríguez I. Microbe-Mineral Interactions between Asbestos and Thermophilic Chemolithoautotrophic Anaerobes. Appl Environ Microbiol 2023; 89:e0204822. [PMID: 37184266 PMCID: PMC10304897 DOI: 10.1128/aem.02048-22] [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: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The Fe content and the morphometry of asbestos are two major factors linked to its toxicity. This study explored the use of microbe-mineral interactions between asbestos (and asbestos-like) minerals and thermophilic chemolithoautotrophic microorganisms as possible mineral dissolution treatments targeting their toxic properties. The removal of Fe from crocidolite was tested through chemolithoautotrophic Fe(III) reduction activities at 60°C. Chrysotile and tremolite-actinolite were tested for dissolution and potential release of elements like Si and Mg through biosilicification processes at 75°C. Our results show that chemolithoautotrophic Fe(III) reduction activities by Deferrisoma palaeochoriense were supported with crocidolite as the sole source of Fe(III) used as a terminal electron acceptor during respiration. Microbial Fe(III) reduction activities resulted in higher Fe release rates from crocidolite in comparison to previous studies on Fe leaching from crocidolite through Fe assimilation activities by soil fungi. Evidence of biosilicification in Thermovibrio ammonificans did not correspond with increased Si and Mg release from chrysotile or tremolite-actinolite dissolution. However, overall Si and Mg release from chrysotile into our experimental medium outmatched previously reported capabilities for Si and Mg release from chrysotile by fungi. Differences in the profiles of elements released from chrysotile and tremolite-actinolite during microbe-mineral experiments with T. ammonificans underscored the relevance of underlying crystallochemical differences in driving mineral dissolution and elemental bioavailability. Experimental studies targeting the interactions between chemolithoautotrophs and asbestos (or asbestos-like) minerals offer new access to the mechanisms behind crystallochemical mineral alterations and their role in the development of tailored asbestos treatments. IMPORTANCE We explored the potential of chemosynthetic microorganisms growing at high temperatures to induce the release of key elements (mainly iron, silicon, and magnesium) involved in the known toxic properties (iron content and fibrous mineral shapes) of asbestos minerals. We show for the first time that the microbial respiration of iron from amphibole asbestos releases some of the iron contained in the mineral while supporting microbial growth. Another microorganism imposed on the two main types of asbestos minerals (serpentines and amphiboles) resulted in distinct elemental release profiles for each type of asbestos during mineral dissolution. Despite evidence of microbially mediated dissolution in all minerals, none of the microorganisms tested disrupted the structure of the asbestos mineral fibers. Further constraints on the relationships between elemental release rates, amount of starting asbestos, reaction volumes, and incubation times will be required to better compare asbestos dissolution treatments studied to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica K. Choi
- Department of Earth and Environmental Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ruggero Vigliaturo
- Department of Earth and Environmental Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Reto Gieré
- Department of Earth and Environmental Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ileana Pérez-Rodríguez
- Department of Earth and Environmental Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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3
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Gualtieri AF. Journey to the centre of the lung. The perspective of a mineralogist on the carcinogenic effects of mineral fibres in the lungs. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 442:130077. [PMID: 36209608 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.130077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This work reviews the bio-chemical mechanisms leading to adverse effects produced when mineral fibres are inhaled and transported in the lungs from the perspective of a mineralogist. The behaviour of three known carcinogenic mineral fibres (crocidolite, chrysotile, and fibrous-asbestiform erionite) during their journey through the upper respiratory tract, the deep respiratory tract and the pleural cavity is discussed. These three fibres have been selected as they are the most socially and economically relevant mineral fibres representative of the classes of chain silicates (amphiboles), layer silicates (serpentine), and framework silicates (zeolites), respectively. Comparison of the behaviour of these fibres is made according to their specific crystal-chemical assemblages and properties. Known biological and subsequent pathologic effects which lead and contribute to carcinogenesis are critically reviewed under the mineralogical perspective and in relation to recent progress in this multidisciplinary field of research. Special attention is given to the understanding of the cause-effect relationships for lung cancer and malignant mesothelioma. Comparison with interstitial pulmonary fibrosis, or "asbestosis", will also be made here. This overview highlights open issues, data gaps, and conflicts in the literature for these topics, especially as regards relative potencies of the three mineral fibres under consideration for lung cancer and mesothelioma. Finally, an attempt is made to identify future research lines suitable for a general comprehensive model of the carcinogenicity of mineral fibres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro F Gualtieri
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 103, Modena I-41125, Italy.
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4
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Bernstein DM. The health effects of short fiber chrysotile and amphibole asbestos. Crit Rev Toxicol 2022; 52:89-112. [PMID: 35703172 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2022.2056430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The potential toxic effects of short chrysotile and amphibole asbestos fibers with lengths <5 to ∼10 µm have been debated over the years. This stems from the large database of epidemiology, toxicology, and in-vitro studies, each of which often provides different information in understanding and differentiating the effects of short fibers. The epidemiology studies in which the cancer potency estimates were based upon relatively high exposure concentrations provide a conservative assessment that shorter fibers would have little if any effect, especially under controlled exposure or environmental conditions that may occur today. The QSAR models have shown that fiber aspect ratio and Mg content are excellent predictors of cancer potency and that short fibers/particles of amphibole would have no effect. The studies of motor vehicle mechanics and in particular workers who serviced chrysotile containing brakes with the majority of the fibers being short provides evidence that motor vehicle mechanics, including workers who were engaged in brake repair, are not at an increased risk of mesothelioma. Several inhalation toxicology studies clearly differentiated that short chrysotile and amphibole asbestos fibers did not produce a significant carcinogenic effect in the lung or pleural cavity. Because of dosing and lack of sensitivity to biosolubility, in vitro studies can be difficult to interpret; however, a number have differentiated short chrysotile and amphibole asbestos fibers from long fibers. Integral to understanding the importance of fiber length in determining possible health effects is an understanding of the biological and physiological function of the respiratory system. Short asbestos fibers, like innocuous dust, can be cleared through the tracheobronchial ciliated mucous transport, phagocytized by macrophages and cleared via the bronchial tree, and can also be removed through the lymphatic system. While the first two methods can remove them from the lung, with lymphatic transport through one-way valves, fibers are removed from the active area of the lung where the fiber-related disease has been shown to develop and can accumulate in lymphatic sumps and lymph nodes. While short asbestos fibers are present in most occupational or environmental exposures, the large body of studies strongly supports that they do not contribute to the health effects of asbestos exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Bernstein
- Consultant in Toxicology, 40 Chemin de la Petite-Boissière, Geneva, Switzerland
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5
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Mirata S, Almonti V, Di Giuseppe D, Fornasini L, Raneri S, Vernazza S, Bersani D, Gualtieri AF, Bassi AM, Scarfì S. The Acute Toxicity of Mineral Fibres: A Systematic In Vitro Study Using Different THP-1 Macrophage Phenotypes. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:2840. [PMID: 35269982 PMCID: PMC8911508 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Alveolar macrophages are the first line of defence against detrimental inhaled stimuli. To date, no comparative data have been obtained on the inflammatory response induced by different carcinogenic mineral fibres in the three main macrophage phenotypes: M0 (non-activated), M1 (pro-inflammatory) and M2 (alternatively activated). To gain new insights into the different toxicity mechanisms of carcinogenic mineral fibres, the acute effects of fibrous erionite, crocidolite and chrysotile in the three phenotypes obtained by THP-1 monocyte differentiation were investigated. The three mineral fibres apparently act by different toxicity mechanisms. Crocidolite seems to exert its toxic effects mostly as a result of its biodurability, ROS and cytokine production and DNA damage. Chrysotile, due to its low biodurability, displays toxic effects related to the release of toxic metals and the production of ROS and cytokines. Other mechanisms are involved in explaining the toxicity of biodurable fibrous erionite, which induces lower ROS and toxic metal release but exhibits a cation-exchange capacity able to alter the intracellular homeostasis of important cations. Concerning the differences among the three macrophage phenotypes, similar behaviour in the production of pro-inflammatory mediators was observed. The M2 phenotype, although known as a cell type recruited to mitigate the inflammatory state, in the case of asbestos fibres and erionite, serves to support the process by supplying pro-inflammatory mediators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Mirata
- Department Earth, Environment and Life Sciences, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy;
- Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), 56122 Pisa, Italy; (V.A.); (S.V.); (A.M.B.)
| | - Vanessa Almonti
- Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), 56122 Pisa, Italy; (V.A.); (S.V.); (A.M.B.)
- Department Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Dario Di Giuseppe
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy; (D.D.G.); (A.F.G.)
| | - Laura Fornasini
- ICCOM-CNR—Institute of Chemistry of OrganoMetallic Compounds, National Research Council, Via G. Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (L.F.); (S.R.)
| | - Simona Raneri
- ICCOM-CNR—Institute of Chemistry of OrganoMetallic Compounds, National Research Council, Via G. Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (L.F.); (S.R.)
| | - Stefania Vernazza
- Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), 56122 Pisa, Italy; (V.A.); (S.V.); (A.M.B.)
- Department Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Danilo Bersani
- Department of Mathematical, Physical and Computer Sciences, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 7/A, 43124 Parma, Italy;
| | - Alessandro F. Gualtieri
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy; (D.D.G.); (A.F.G.)
| | - Anna Maria Bassi
- Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), 56122 Pisa, Italy; (V.A.); (S.V.); (A.M.B.)
- Department Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Sonia Scarfì
- Department Earth, Environment and Life Sciences, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy;
- Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), 56122 Pisa, Italy; (V.A.); (S.V.); (A.M.B.)
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6
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Giordani M, Mattioli M, Cangiotti M, Fattori A, Ottaviani MF, Betti M, Ballirano P, Pacella A, Di Giuseppe D, Scognamiglio V, Hanuskova M, Gualtieri AF. Characterisation of potentially toxic natural fibrous zeolites by means of electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy and morphological-mineralogical studies. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 291:133067. [PMID: 34838598 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.133067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This study explored the morphological, mineralogical, and physico-chemical features of carcinogenic erionite and other possibly hazardous zeolites, such as mesolite and thomsonite, while also investigating the interacting capability of the mineral surface at the liquid/solid interface. Extremely fibrous erionite is K+ and Ca2+-rich and shows the highest Si/Al ratio (3.38) and specific surface area (8.14 m2/g). Fibrous mesolite is Na+ and Ca2+-rich and displays both a lower Si/Al ratio (1.56) and a smaller specific surface area (1.56 m2/g). The thomsonite composition shows the lowest values of Si/Al ratio (1.23) and specific surface area (0.38 m2/g). Electron paramagnetic resonance data from selected spin probes reveal that erionite has a homogeneous site distribution and interacts well with all spin probes. The surfaces of mesolite and thomsonite are less homogeneous and closer polar sites were found through consequent interaction with the probes. The mesolite surface can also clearly interact but with a lower strength and may represent a potential health hazard for humans, though with a lower degree if compared to erionite. The thomsonite surface is not inert and interacts with the probes with a low-grade capability. We can expect small fragments of thomsonite to interact with the biological environment, though with a low-grade intensity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Giordani
- Department of Pure and Applied Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Michele Mattioli
- Department of Pure and Applied Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy.
| | - Michela Cangiotti
- Department of Pure and Applied Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Alberto Fattori
- Department of Pure and Applied Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | | | - Michele Betti
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, Italy
| | - Paolo Ballirano
- Department of Earth Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pacella
- Department of Earth Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Dario Di Giuseppe
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, I-41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Valentina Scognamiglio
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, I-41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Miriam Hanuskova
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, I-41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandro F Gualtieri
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, I-41125, Modena, Italy
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7
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Di Giuseppe D, Scarfì S, Alessandrini A, Bassi AM, Mirata S, Almonti V, Ragazzini G, Mescola A, Filaferro M, Avallone R, Vitale G, Scognamiglio V, Gualtieri AF. Acute cytotoxicity of mineral fibres observed by time-lapse video microscopy. Toxicology 2021; 466:153081. [PMID: 34953976 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2021.153081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Inhalation of mineral fibres is associated with the onset of an inflammatory activity in the lungs and the pleura responsible for the development of fatal malignancies. It is known that cell damage is a necessary step for triggering the inflammatory response. However, the mechanisms by which mineral fibres exert cytotoxic activity are not fully understood. In this work, the kinetics of the early cytotoxicity mechanisms of three mineral fibres (i.e., chrysotile, crocidolite and fibrous erionite) classified as carcinogenic by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, was determined for the first time in a comparative manner using time-lapse video microscopy coupled with in vitro assays. All tests were performed using the THP-1 cell line, differentiated into M0 macrophages (M0-THP-1) and exposed for short times (8 h) to 25 μg/mL aliquots of chrysotile, crocidolite and fibrous erionite. The toxic action of fibrous erionite on M0-THP-1 cells is manifested since the early steps (2 h) of the experiment while the cytotoxicity of crocidolite and chrysotile gradually increases during the time span of the experiment. Chrysotile and crocidolite prompt cell death mainly via apoptosis, while erionite exposure is also probably associated to a necrotic-like effect. The potential mechanisms underlying these different toxicity behaviours are discussed in the light of the different morphological, and chemical-physical properties of the three fibres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Di Giuseppe
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Sonia Scarfì
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genoa, Italy; Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), Pisa, Italy
| | - Andrea Alessandrini
- Department of Physics, Informatics and Mathematics, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; CNR-Nanoscience Institute-S3, Modena, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Bassi
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), Pisa, Italy
| | - Serena Mirata
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genoa, Italy; Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), Pisa, Italy
| | - Vanessa Almonti
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; Inter-University Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching & Research (Centro 3R), Pisa, Italy
| | - Gregorio Ragazzini
- Department of Physics, Informatics and Mathematics, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; CNR-Nanoscience Institute-S3, Modena, Italy
| | | | - Monica Filaferro
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, The University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Rossella Avallone
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giovanni Vitale
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Valentina Scognamiglio
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandro F Gualtieri
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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8
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Bardelli F, Brun F, De Panfilis S, Cloetens P, Capella S, Belluso E, Bellis D, Di Napoli A, Cedola A. Chemo-physical properties of asbestos bodies in human lung tissues studied at the nano-scale by non-invasive, label free x-ray imaging and spectroscopic techniques. Toxicol Lett 2021; 348:18-27. [PMID: 34023437 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2021.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
In the lungs, asbestos develops an Fe-rich coating (Asbestos Body, AB) that becomes the actual interface between the foreign fibers and the host organism. Conventional approaches to study ABs require an invasive sample preparation that can alter them. In this work, a novel combination of x-ray tomography and spectroscopy allowed studying unaltered lung tissue samples with chrysotile and crocidolite asbestos. The thickness and mass density maps of the ABs obtained by x-ray tomography were used to derive a truly quantitative elemental analysis from scanning x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy data. The average mass density of the ABs is compatible with that of highly loaded ferritin, or hemosiderin. The composition of all ABs analyzed was similar, with only minor differences in the relative elemental fractions. Silicon concentration decreased in the core-to-rim direction, indicating a possible partial dissolution of the inner fiber. The Fe content in the ABs was higher than that possibly contained in chrysotile and crocidolite. This finding opens two opposite scenarios, the first with Fe coming from the fiber bulk and concentrating on the surface as long as the fiber dissolves, the second where the Fe that takes part to the formation of the AB originates from the host organism Fe-pool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Bardelli
- Institute of Nanotechnology - CNR-Nanotec, c/o Department of Physics, Sapienza University, Roma, Italy.
| | - Francesco Brun
- Department of Engineering and Architecture, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Simone De Panfilis
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Roma, Italy
| | - Peter Cloetens
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF), Grenoble, France
| | - Silvana Capella
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy; Interdepartmental Centre for the Study of Asbestos and Other Toxic Particulate "G. Scansetti", University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Elena Belluso
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy; Interdepartmental Centre for the Study of Asbestos and Other Toxic Particulate "G. Scansetti", University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Donata Bellis
- Interdepartmental Centre for the Study of Asbestos and Other Toxic Particulate "G. Scansetti", University of Torino, Torino, Italy; Department of Surgery, Pathological Anatomy, Ospedale degli Infermi, Biella, Italy
| | - Arianna Di Napoli
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Pathology Unit, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessia Cedola
- Institute of Nanotechnology - CNR-Nanotec, c/o Department of Physics, Sapienza University, Roma, Italy
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9
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Gualtieri AF, Zoboli A, Filaferro M, Benassi M, Scarfì S, Mirata S, Avallone R, Vitale G, Bailey M, Harper M, Di Giuseppe D. In vitro toxicity of fibrous glaucophane. Toxicology 2021; 454:152743. [PMID: 33675871 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2021.152743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The health hazard represented by the exposure to asbestos may also concern other minerals with asbestos-like crystal habit. One of these potentially hazardous minerals is fibrous glaucophane. Fibrous glaucophane is a major component of blueschist rocks of California (USA) currently mined for construction purposes. Dust generated by the excavation activities might potentially expose workers and the general public. The aim of this study was to determine whether fibrous glaucophane induces in vitro toxicity effects on lung cells by assessing the biological responses of cultured human pleural mesothelial cells (Met-5A) and THP-1 derived macrophages exposed for 24 h and 48 h to glaucophane fibres. Crocidolite asbestos was tested for comparison. The experimental configuration of the in vitro tests included a cell culture without fibres (i.e., control), cell cultures treated with 50 μg/mL (i.e., 15.6 μg/cm2) of crocidolite fibres and 25-50-100 μg/mL (i.e., 7.8-15.6-31.2 μg/cm2) of glaucophane fibres. Results showed that fibrous glaucophane may induce a decrease in cell viability and an increase in extra-cellular lactate dehydrogenase release in the tested cell cultures in a concentration dependent mode. Moreover, it was found that fibrous glaucophane has a potency to cause oxidative stress. The biological reactivity of fibrous glaucophane confirms that it is a toxic agent and, although it apparently induces lower toxic effects compared to crocidolite, exposure to this fibre may be responsible for the development of lung diseases in exposed unprotected workers and population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro F Gualtieri
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Zoboli
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Monica Filaferro
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neurosciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Monia Benassi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neurosciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Sonia Scarfì
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Serena Mirata
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Rossella Avallone
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giovanni Vitale
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Mark Bailey
- Asbestos TEM Laboratories, 600 Bancroft Way, Suite A, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Martin Harper
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Dario Di Giuseppe
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
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Gualtieri AF. Bridging the gap between toxicity and carcinogenicity of mineral fibres by connecting the fibre crystal-chemical and physical parameters to the key characteristics of cancer. Curr Res Toxicol 2021; 2:42-52. [PMID: 34345849 PMCID: PMC8320635 DOI: 10.1016/j.crtox.2021.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Airborne fibres and particularly asbestos represent hazards of great concern for human health because exposure to these peculiar particulates may cause malignancies such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. Currently, many researchers worldwide are focussed on fully understanding the patho-biological mechanisms leading to carcinogenesis prompted by pathogenic fibres. Along this line, the present work introduces a novel approach to correlate how and to what extent the physical/crystal-chemical and morphological parameters (including length, chemistry, biodurability, and surface properties) of mineral fibres cause major adverse effects with an emphasis on asbestos. The model described below conceptually attempts to bridge the gap between toxicity and carcinogenicity of mineral fibres and has several implications: 1) it provides a tool to measure the toxicity and pathogenic potential of asbestos minerals, allowing a quantitative rank of the different types (e.g. chrysotile vs. crocidolite); 2) it can predict the toxicity and pathogenicity of "unregulated" or unclassified fibres; 3) it reveals the parameters of a mineral fibre that are active in stimulating key characteristics of cancer, thus offering a strategy for developing specific cancer prevention strategies and therapies. Chrysotile, crocidolite and fibrous glaucophane are described here as mineral fibres of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro F. Gualtieri
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, The University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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11
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Giacobbe C, Di Giuseppe D, Zoboli A, Lassinantti Gualtieri M, Bonasoni P, Moliterni A, Corriero N, Altomare A, Wright J, Gualtieri AF. Crystal structure determination of a lifelong biopersistent asbestos fibre using single-crystal synchrotron X-ray micro-diffraction. IUCRJ 2021; 8:76-86. [PMID: 33520244 PMCID: PMC7792997 DOI: 10.1107/s2052252520015079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The six natural silicates known as asbestos may induce fatal lung diseases via inhalation, with a latency period of decades. The five amphibole asbestos species are assumed to be biopersistent in the lungs, and for this reason they are considered much more toxic than serpentine asbestos (chrysotile). Here, we refined the atomic structure of an amosite amphibole asbestos fibre that had remained in a human lung for ∼40 years, in order to verify the stability in vivo. The subject was originally exposed to a blend of chrysotile, amosite and crocidolite, which remained in his parietal pleura for ∼40 years. We found a few relicts of chrysotile fibres that were amorphous and magnesium depleted. Amphibole fibres that were recovered were undamaged and suitable for synchrotron X-ray micro-diffraction experiments. Our crystal structure refinement from a recovered amosite fibre demonstrates that the original atomic distribution in the crystal is intact and, consequently, that the atomic structure of amphibole asbestos fibres remains stable in the lungs for a lifetime; during which time they can cause chronic inflammation and other adverse effects that are responsible for carcinogenesis. The amosite fibres are not iron depleted proving that the iron pool for the formation of the asbestos bodies is biological (haemoglobin/plasma derived) and that it does not come from the asbestos fibres themselves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlotta Giacobbe
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, 71 Avenue Des Martyrs, Grenoble, 38040, France
| | - Dario Di Giuseppe
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, 41121, Italy
- Department of Sciences and Methods for Engineering, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Amendola 2, Reggio Emilia, 42122, Italy
| | - Alessandro Zoboli
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, 41121, Italy
| | - Magdalena Lassinantti Gualtieri
- Department of Engineering ‘Enzo Ferrari’, Università degli Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia, Via Università 4, Modena, 41121, Italy
| | - Paola Bonasoni
- Pathology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale – IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Anna Moliterni
- Institute of Crystallography, CNR, Via Amendola 122/O, Bari, 70126, Italy
| | - Nicola Corriero
- Institute of Crystallography, CNR, Via Amendola 122/O, Bari, 70126, Italy
| | - Angela Altomare
- Institute of Crystallography, CNR, Via Amendola 122/O, Bari, 70126, Italy
| | - Jonathan Wright
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, 71 Avenue Des Martyrs, Grenoble, 38040, France
| | - Alessandro F. Gualtieri
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, 41121, Italy
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12
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Luo Y, Deng J, Cui Y, Li T, Bai J, Huang L, Sun Y, Dong F, Zhang Q. Long-term instillation to four natural representative chrysotile of China induce the inactivation of P53 and P16 and the activation of C-JUN and C-FOS in the lung tissues of Wistar rats. Toxicol Lett 2020; 333:140-149. [PMID: 32755622 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2020.07.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Chrysotile is the only type of asbestos still widely exploited, and all kinds of asbestos including chrysotile was classified as a group I carcinogen by the IARC. There is a wealth of evidence that chrysotile can cause a range of cancers, including cancer of the lung, larynx, ovary, and mesothelioma. As the second largest chrysotile producer, China is at great risk of occupational exposure. Moreover, our previous experiment and some other studies have shown that the toxicity of mineral fibre from various mining areas may be different. To explore the oncogenic potential of chrysotile from different mining areas of China, Wistar rats were administered 0.5 mL chrysotile asbestos suspension of 2.0 mg/mL (from Akesai, Gansu; Mangnai, Qinghai; XinKang, Sichuan; and Shannan, Shaanxi) dissolved in saline by intratracheal instillation once-monthly and were sacrificed at 1 mo, 6 mo, and 12 mo. Our results found that chrysotile caused lung inflammation and lung tissue damage. Moreover, prolonged exposure of chrysotile can induce inactivation of the tumor suppressor gene P53 and P16 and activation of the protooncogene C-JUN and C-FOS both in the messenger RNA and protein level. In addition, chrysotile from Shannan and XinKang has a stronger effect which may link to cancer than that from Akesai and Mangnai.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingyu Luo
- School of Public Health, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China
| | - Jianjun Deng
- Medical Laboratory, Sichuan Mianyang 404 Hospital, No.2 Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Mianyang 621000, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yan Cui
- School of Public Health, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China
| | - Tao Li
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Myocardial electrical laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China
| | - Jun Bai
- School of Public Health, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China
| | - Liuwen Huang
- School of Public Health, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China
| | - Yaochuan Sun
- School of Earth Science and Environmental Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 611756, Sichuan, China
| | - Faqin Dong
- Key Laboratory of Solid Waste Treatment and the Resource Recycle, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 621010, Sichuan, China.
| | - Qingbi Zhang
- School of Public Health, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, Sichuan, China.
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