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Madsen AM, Uhrbrand K, Kofoed VC, Fischer TK, Frederiksen MW. A cohort study of wastewater treatment plant workers: Association between levels of biomarkers of systemic inflammation and exposure to bacteria and fungi, and endotoxin as measured using two methods. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 231:119625. [PMID: 36680819 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.119625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Work in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) can be associated with exposure to airborne microorganisms and endotoxin from the working environment. The aim of this study was to obtain knowledge about whether serum levels of the markers of systemic inflammation, C-reactive protein (CRP) and serum amyloid A (SAA), are associated with personal exposure to endotoxin, measured using the Limulus (endotoxinLimulus) and the rFC (endotoxinrFC) assays, as well as bacteria and fungi in a cohort of WWTP workers. Exposure and blood samples were collected for 11 workers over one year. Exposure to endotoxinLimulus-day and endotoxinrFC-day correlated significantly (r = 0.80, p<0.0001, n = 104), but endotoxinLimulus-day was 4.4 (Geometric mean (GM) value) times higher than endotoxinrFC-day (p<0.0001). The endotoxinLimulus-day, endotoxinrFC-day, bacteria, and fungal exposure as well as serum levels of CRP-day (GM=1.4 mg/l) and SAA-day (GM=12 mg/l) differed between workers. Serum levels of SAAday correlated significantly with CRPday (r = 0.30, p = 0.0068). The serum levels of CRPday were associated significantly with exposure to endotoxinLimulus-day. Exposure, SAA and CRP data were also analyzed as av. of each season, and SAAseason was associated positively and significantly with endotoxinLimulus-season and endotoxinrFC-season and negatively with fungalseason exposure. In conclusion, CRPday was associated with the endotoxinLimulus-day and SAAseason with endotoxinLimulus-season and endotoxinrFC-season exposure. Thus, we hereby document that WWTP workers are exposed to airborne endotoxin which seems to have a negative impact on their health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Mette Madsen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Katrine Uhrbrand
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Victor Carp Kofoed
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thea K Fischer
- Dept of Clinical Research, Nordsjaellands Hospital, Denmark; Dept of Virus & Microbiological Special Diagnostics, Statens Serum Institut, Denmark
| | - Margit W Frederiksen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Zahradnik E, Sander I, Kleinmüller O, Lotz A, Liebers V, Janssen-Weets B, Kler S, Hilger C, Beine A, Hoffmeyer F, Nienhaus A, Raulf M. Animal Allergens, Endotoxin, and β-(1,3)-Glucan in Small Animal Practices: Exposure Levels at Work and in Homes of Veterinary Staff. Ann Work Expo Health 2021; 66:27-40. [PMID: 34363388 PMCID: PMC8751790 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxab053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In veterinary settings, high exposures to animal allergens and microbial agents can be expected. However, occupational exposure levels are largely unknown. The objective of this study was to estimate the allergen, endotoxin, and β-(1,3)-glucan concentrations in small animal practices and in the homes of practice employees. METHODS Dust samples were collected using electrostatic dust fall collectors in diverse rooms of 36 small animal practices, as well as in employees' homes. Major animal allergens (Fel d 1, Can f 1, Ory c 3, Cav p 1, Equ c 1, Bos d 2), domestic mite (DM) allergens, and β-(1,3)-glucan levels were measured using enzyme immunoassays. Endotoxin was determined using the Limulus amoebocyte lysate assay. Influences on exposure levels were analyzed using multilevel models. RESULTS The levels of Can f 1, Fel d 1, Ory c 3, and Cav p 1 were up to 30 times higher in practices compared with homes without animals, but significantly lower compared with the homes with the respective pet. Although horses were not treated in the practices, Equ c 1 was found in 87.5% of samples, with the highest concentrations measured in changing rooms. DM levels were significantly lower in practices than in all private homes, and endotoxin levels were similar to those in homes with pets. In the practice itself, exposure levels were significantly influenced by animal presence, type of the room, and area per employee; whereas, room volume and diverse cleaning measures had mostly no effect. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to animal allergens is high in veterinary practices, but it does not reach levels of households with pets. Domestic mite allergen and endotoxin exposure seem to be low for workers in veterinary practices. The high Equ c 1 detection rate strongly indicates dispersal of allergens, most likely through clothing and hair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Zahradnik
- Department of Allergology and Immunology, Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +49-3013001-4325; e-mail:
| | - Ingrid Sander
- Department of Allergology and Immunology, Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Olaf Kleinmüller
- CVcare, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anne Lotz
- Department of Epidemiology, Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Verena Liebers
- Department of Allergology and Immunology, Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Bente Janssen-Weets
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxemburg Institute of Health, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxemburg
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy Center, Odense Research Center for Anaphylaxis, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Stéphanie Kler
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxemburg Institute of Health, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxemburg
| | - Christiane Hilger
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxemburg Institute of Health, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxemburg
| | - Alexandra Beine
- Department of Medicine, Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Frank Hoffmeyer
- Department of Medicine, Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Albert Nienhaus
- CVcare, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Hazardous Substances and Health Research (AGG), Institution for Statutory Accident Insurance and Prevention in the Health and Welfare Services (BGW), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Monika Raulf
- Department of Allergology and Immunology, Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
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Liebers V, Brüning T, Raulf M. Occupational endotoxin exposure and health effects. Arch Toxicol 2020; 94:3629-3644. [DOI: 10.1007/s00204-020-02905-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Kristono GA, Shorter C, Pierse N, Crane J, Siebers R. Endotoxin, cat, and house dust mite allergens in electrostatic cloths and bedroom dust. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2019; 16:89-96. [PMID: 30325697 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2018.1536827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Environmental exposure to endotoxin, Fel d I (cat) allergen and Der p I (house dust mite) allergen have been associated with asthma symptoms and have been measured in the environment using various sampling methods, including the electrostatic dust collector. The objectives of this study were to investigate whether levels of endotoxin and allergens were detectable in electrostatic dust collectors and to examine the correlation of allergen and endotoxin levels between electrostatic dust collectors and vacuum sampling methods (floor dust and mattress dust). Electrostatic cloths, bedroom floor dust and mattress dust samples from a subset of 60 homes were randomly selected from the Health of Occupants of Mouldy Homes study for allergen and endotoxin analysis. Fel d I and Der p I allergens were analyzed by double monoclonal antibody ELISA and endotoxin by the kinetic Limulus amoebocyte lysate assay. An enhanced ELISA method was used to analyze Der p I in the electrostatic cloths. Endotoxin was detected in all samples, however Fel d I and Der p I were not detected in all electrostatic dust collector samples (detection in 53% and 15% of cloths respectively). No correlations were found between cloth and dust samples for endotoxin or Der p I, but moderate-to-strong correlations were found between all three sampling methods for Fel d I (rs = 0.612-0.715, p < 0.001). Poor correlation was found between floor dust and mattress dust samples for Der p I (rs = 0.256, p = 0.048). Electrostatic dust collectors may provide a way to measure airborne dust and allergen. Given the moderate-to-low correlations with vacuum dust sampling, this may present a unique measurement system which, when collected alongside traditional vacuum dust sampling, could provide additional exposure measures. Further studies are required to correlate endotoxin and allergen levels measured by electrostatic dust collector with air sampling and to explore the relationships between these bioaerosols, environmental factors and asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisela A Kristono
- a Wellington Asthma Research Group, Department of Medicine , University of Otago , Wellington , New Zealand
| | - Caroline Shorter
- a Wellington Asthma Research Group, Department of Medicine , University of Otago , Wellington , New Zealand
| | - Nevil Pierse
- b Department of Public Health , University of Otago , Wellington , New Zealand
| | - Julian Crane
- a Wellington Asthma Research Group, Department of Medicine , University of Otago , Wellington , New Zealand
| | - Robert Siebers
- a Wellington Asthma Research Group, Department of Medicine , University of Otago , Wellington , New Zealand
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Liebers V, Kendzia B, Stubel H, Borowitzki G, Gering V, Monsé C, Hagemeyer O, Merget R, Brüning T, Raulf M. Cell Activation and Cytokine Release Ex Vivo: Estimation of Reproducibility of the Whole-Blood Assay with Fresh Human Blood. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1108:25-36. [DOI: 10.1007/5584_2018_225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Duquenne P, Simon X, Demange V, Harper M, Wild P. Endotoxin deposits on the inner surfaces of closed-face cassettes during bioaerosol sampling: a field investigation at composting facilities. ANNALS OF OCCUPATIONAL HYGIENE 2014; 59:504-13. [PMID: 25535181 DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/meu108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2014] [Accepted: 11/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
A set of 270 bioaerosol samples was taken from 15 composting facilities using polystyrene closed-face filter cassettes (CFCs). The objective was to measure the quantity of endotoxin deposits on the inner surfaces of the cassettes (sometimes referred to as 'wall deposits'). The results show that endotoxins are deposited on the inner surfaces of the CFCs through sampling and/or handling of samples. The quantity of endotoxins measured on inner surfaces range between 0.05 (the limit of detection of the method) and 3100 endotoxin units per cassette. The deposits can represent a large and variable percentage of the endotoxins sampled. More than a third of the samples presented a percentage of inner surface deposits >40% of the total quantity of endotoxins collected (filter + inner surfaces). Omitting these inner surface deposits in the analytical process lead to measurement errors relative to sampling all particles entering the CFC sampler, corresponding to a developing consensus on matching the inhalable particulate sampling convention. The result would be underestimated exposures and could affect the decision as to whether or not a result is acceptable in comparison to airborne concentration limits defined in terms of the inhalability convention. The results of this study suggest including the endotoxins deposited on the inner surfaces of CFCs during analysis. Further researches are necessary to investigate endotoxin deposits on the inner cassette surfaces in other working sectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Duquenne
- 1.INRS - Institut National de Recherche et de Sécurité, Aerosols Metrology Laboratory, Pollutants Metrology Division, 1 rue du Morvan CS 60027, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy Cedex 54519, France
| | - Xavier Simon
- 1.INRS - Institut National de Recherche et de Sécurité, Aerosols Metrology Laboratory, Pollutants Metrology Division, 1 rue du Morvan CS 60027, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy Cedex 54519, France
| | - Valérie Demange
- 1.INRS - Institut National de Recherche et de Sécurité, Aerosols Metrology Laboratory, Pollutants Metrology Division, 1 rue du Morvan CS 60027, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy Cedex 54519, France
| | - Martin Harper
- 2.NIOSH - National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Health Effects Laboratory Division, 1095 Willowdale Road, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA
| | - Pascal Wild
- 1.INRS - Institut National de Recherche et de Sécurité, Aerosols Metrology Laboratory, Pollutants Metrology Division, 1 rue du Morvan CS 60027, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy Cedex 54519, France
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van Kampen V, Sander I, Liebers V, Deckert A, Neumann HD, Buxtrup M, Willer E, Felten C, Jäckel U, Klug K, Brüning T, Raulf M, Bünger J. Concentration of bioaerosols in composting plants using different quantification methods. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 58:693-706. [PMID: 24759376 DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/meu026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bioaerosols (organic dusts) containing viable and non-viable microorganisms and their metabolic products can lead to adverse health effects in exposed workers. Standard quantification methods of airborne microorganisms are mainly based on cultivation, which often underestimates the microbial burden. The aim of the study was to determine the microbial load in German composting plants with different, mainly cultivation-independent, methods. Second purpose was to evaluate which working areas are associated with higher or lower bioaerosol concentrations. METHODS A total of 124 inhalable dust samples were collected at different workplaces in 31 composting plants. Besides the determination of inhalable dust, particles, and total cell numbers, antigen quantification for moulds (Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus versicolor, Penicillium chrysogenum, and Cladosporium spp.) and mites was performed. Concentrations of β-glucans as well as endotoxin and pyrogenic activities were also measured. The number of colony forming units (cfu) was determined by cultivation of moulds and actinomycetes in 36 additional dust samples. RESULTS With the exception of particle numbers, concentrations of all determined parameters showed significant correlations (P < 0.0001; r Spearman: 0.40-0.80), indicating a close association between these exposure markers. Colony numbers of mesophilic moulds and actinomycetes correlated also significantly with data of cultivation-independent methods. Exposure levels showed generally large variations. However, all parameters were measured highest in dusty working areas like next to the shredder and during processing with the exception of Cladosporium antigens that were found in the highest concentrations in the delivery area. The lowest concentrations of dust, particles, antigens, and pyrogenic activity were determined in wheel loader cabins (WLCs), which were equipped with an air filtration system. CONCLUSION It was possible to assess the microbial load of air in composting plants with different quantification methods. Since allergic and toxic reactions may be also caused by nonliving microorganisms, cultivation-independent methods may provide additional information about bioaerosol composition. In general, air filtration reduced the bioaerosol exposure shown in WLCs. Due to the fact that the mechanical processing of compost material, e.g. by shredding or sieving is associated with the generation of high bioaerosol concentrations, there is still a need of improved risk assessment and state-of-the-art protective measures in composting plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera van Kampen
- 1.Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-University Bochum (IPA), Buerkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789 Bochum, Germany
| | - Ingrid Sander
- 1.Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-University Bochum (IPA), Buerkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789 Bochum, Germany
| | - Verena Liebers
- 1.Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-University Bochum (IPA), Buerkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789 Bochum, Germany
| | - Anja Deckert
- 1.Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-University Bochum (IPA), Buerkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789 Bochum, Germany
| | - Heinz-Dieter Neumann
- 2.German Social Accident Insurance, Institution for the public sector in North Rhine-Westphalia, St.-Franziskus-Straße 146, 40470 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Martin Buxtrup
- 2.German Social Accident Insurance, Institution for the public sector in North Rhine-Westphalia, St.-Franziskus-Straße 146, 40470 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Eckart Willer
- 3.Berufsgenossenschaft für Transport und Verkehrswesen, Ottenser Hauptstr. 54, 22765 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christian Felten
- 3.Berufsgenossenschaft für Transport und Verkehrswesen, Ottenser Hauptstr. 54, 22765 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Udo Jäckel
- 4.Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA), Nöldnerstrasse 40-42, 10317 Berlin, Germany
| | - Kerstin Klug
- 4.Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA), Nöldnerstrasse 40-42, 10317 Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Brüning
- 1.Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-University Bochum (IPA), Buerkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789 Bochum, Germany
| | - Monika Raulf
- 1.Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-University Bochum (IPA), Buerkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789 Bochum, Germany
| | - Jürgen Bünger
- 1.Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-University Bochum (IPA), Buerkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789 Bochum, Germany
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Punsmann S, Liebers V, Stubel H, Brüning T, Raulf-Heimsoth M. Determination of inflammatory responses to Aspergillus versicolor and endotoxin with human cryo-preserved blood as a suitable tool. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2013; 216:402-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2012.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2012] [Revised: 09/12/2012] [Accepted: 11/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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9
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Kroll A, Gietl JK, Wiesmüller GA, Günsel A, Wohlleben W, Schnekenburger J, Klemm O. In vitro toxicology of ambient particulate matter: correlation of cellular effects with particle size and components. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2013; 28:76-86. [PMID: 21384498 DOI: 10.1002/tox.20699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2010] [Accepted: 12/27/2010] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
High concentrations of airborne particulate matter (PM) have been associated with increased rates of morbidity and mortality among exposed populations. Although certain components of PM were suggested to influence these effects, no clear-cut correlation was determined thus far. One of the possible modes of action is the induction of oxidative stress by inhaled PM triggering inflammatory responses. Therefore, the in vitro formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in three cell lines in the presence of five subfractions of PM(10), collected in Münster, Germany was investigated. The PM components chloride, nitrate, ammonium, sulfate, 68 chemical elements, and endotoxin were quantified. The highest concentration of endotoxin was found in particles of 0.42-1.2 μm aerodynamic diameters, and therefore probably subject to long-range transport. Intracellular ROS formation in three well established mammalian cell lines (CaCo2, human; MDCK, canine; RAW264.7, mouse) only correlated positively with particle size. The two smallest PM size fractions provoked the highest rise in ROS. However, the latter did not correlate with the concentration of any PM components investigated. The smallest PM size fractions significantly dominated the number of particles. Therefore, the particle number may be most effective in inducing oxidative stress in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Kroll
- Gastroenterological Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Medicine B, University of Münster, Domagkstraβe 3a, 48149 Münster, Germany.
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Paba E, Tranfo G, Corsetti F, Marcelloni AM, Iavicoli S. Indoor exposure to airborne endotoxin: a review of the literature on sampling and analysis methods. INDUSTRIAL HEALTH 2013; 51:237-55. [PMID: 23385433 DOI: 10.2486/indhealth.ms1325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Assessment of exposure to airborne endotoxins has been studied for several years, especially in occupational environments, but a large number of procedures are used for sampling and analysis. This lack of standardization makes it very difficult to compare results and set internationally accepted threshold limit values (TLVs) or occupational exposure limits (OELs) for endotoxin exposure. This paper reviews the methods reported, using advanced bibliographical search techniques: 82 papers published from 2004 to the present were selected to analyze methods for the assessment of human exposure to airborne endotoxins, with particular reference to occupational settings, and to examine their performance and critical points. Only few studies have focused on the standardization of sampling and analysis methods. The European Committee for Standardization Guidelines coincide with the procedures most frequently applied, but this does not guarantee the best results in terms of recovery and reproducibility. The factor that mainly affects endotoxin measurements is the extraction method, the main concern being the presence in the samples of a fraction insoluble in aqueous media. If substantial differences in the proportions of this fraction in different environments are confirmed in the future, the contribution of insoluble endotoxins cannot be neglected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Paba
- Occupational Hygiene Department, INAIL Research, Italy
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Duquenne P, Marchand G, Duchaine C. Measurement of endotoxins in bioaerosols at workplace: a critical review of literature and a standardization issue. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 57:137-72. [PMID: 23002277 DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/mes051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Endotoxins are lipopolysaccharides found in the outer membrane of most Gram-negative bacteria and cyanobacteria. Worker exposure to endotoxins has been shown in a number of work situations and is associated with both respiratory and systemic pathologies. The lack of an occupational exposure limit is mainly due to the absence of a standard protocol at the international level for sampling and analyzing airborne endotoxins. The bibliographic review in this article takes an exhaustive look at the current knowledge on measuring airborne endotoxins. It shows that, despite several reference documents at the international level, the methods used to measure endotoxin exposure differ considerably from one laboratory to another. Standardization is necessary to reduce interlaboratory variability and, ultimately, to improve the use of interstudy data. The bibliographic review presents the current status of standardization for airborne endotoxin measurement methods in the workplace and summarizes areas for further research. This article is both a reference document for all operators wishing to use such methods and a working document to build international consensus around the measurement of airborne endotoxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Duquenne
- Laboratoire de Métrologie des Aérosols, Institut National de Recherche et de Sécurité, Vandoeuvre-Les-Nancy, France.
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Liebers V, van Kampen V, Bünger J, Düser M, Stubel H, Brüning T, Raulf-Heimsoth M. Assessment of airborne exposure to endotoxin and pyrogenic active dust using electrostatic dustfall collectors (EDCs). JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2012; 75:501-507. [PMID: 22686309 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2012.674919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Passive airborne dust sampling using electrostatic dustfall collectors (EDCs) is one possibility especially for long sampling periods. In this study, EDCs were deposited in living rooms of private households and in social rooms of composting plants. The aim of the study was to determine whether endotoxin and pyrogenic activity are measurable using EDCs. In all extracts, endotoxin (via Limulus amebocyte lysate [LAL] assay) and pyrogenic activity (interleukin [IL]-1β release via whole blood assay) were detectable. In addition, the monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP-1; CCL-2) as a secondary proinflammatory marker was measured with whole blood assay. Endotoxin activity and proinflammatory/pyrogenic activity of EDC extracts from social rooms in composting plants were higher compared to extracts obtained from EDCs in private household rooms. A significant correlation between LAL assay and whole blood assay was detectable. In conclusion, EDC sampling is an applicable method to evaluate settled dust from airborne bioaerosols displaying a longer period of exposure. The extraction of EDC without Tween enables one to measure endotoxin as well as proinflammatory/pyrogenic activity using the same sample for parallel detection and more reliable characterization of the airborne bioaerosol contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Liebers
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance (IPA), Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany.
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Liu J, Pankhurst LJ, Deacon LJ, Abate W, Hayes ET, Drew GH, Longhurst PJ, Pollard S, Longhurst J, Tyrrel SF, Jackson SK. Evaluation of inflammatory effects of airborne endotoxin emitted from composting sources. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2011; 30:602-6. [PMID: 21154847 DOI: 10.1002/etc.434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2010] [Revised: 09/05/2010] [Accepted: 10/13/2010] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Because of the lack of effective methodology, the biological effects of environmental endotoxin have not been assessed. Here we have collected and measured airborne endotoxin at different locations around composting sites. Increased endotoxin concentrations were observed close to composting activities and also at nearby boundary areas. Analysis of proinflammatory effects of the environmental endotoxin on interleukin (IL)-8 and IL-6 release from human D562 pharyngeal epithelial and MM6 monocytic cell cultures showed an association between endotoxin level and cytokine induction. The cytokine-inducing effect of bioaerosol extracts was inhibited by polymyxin B, indicating that endotoxin was the cause of cytokine responses we found. The environmental endotoxin was also more active for stimulating cytokines in airway epithelial cells than commercially purified Escherichia coli endotoxin. Our results suggest that these in vitro inflammatory cell models may contribute to the assessment of health impacts of environmental endotoxin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Liu
- University of the West of England, Bristol, United Kingdom
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Noss I, Doekes G, Sander I, Heederik DJJ, Thorne PS, Wouters IM. Passive airborne dust sampling with the electrostatic dustfall collector: optimization of storage and extraction procedures for endotoxin and glucan measurement. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 54:651-8. [PMID: 20354054 DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/meq026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
We recently introduced a passive dust sampling method for airborne endotoxin and glucan exposure assessment-the electrostatic dustfall collector (EDC). In this study, we assessed the effects of different storage and extraction procedures on measured endotoxin and glucan levels, using 12 parallel EDC samples from 10 low exposed indoor environments. Additionally, we compared 2- and 4-week sampling with the prospect of reaching higher dust yields. Endotoxin concentrations were highest after extraction with pyrogen-free water (pf water) + Tween. Phosphate-buffered saline (PBS)-Tween yielded significantly (44%) lower levels, and practically no endotoxin was detected after extraction in pf water without Tween. Glucan levels were highest after extraction in PBS-Tween at 120 degrees C, whereas extracts made in NaOH at room temperature or 120 degrees C were completely negative. Direct extraction from the EDC cloth or sequential extraction after a preceding endotoxin extraction yielded comparable glucan levels. Sample storage at different temperatures before extraction did not affect endotoxin and glucan concentrations. Doubling the sampling duration yielded similar endotoxin and only 50% higher glucan levels. In conclusion, of the tested variables, the extraction medium was the predominant factor affecting endotoxin and glucan yields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilka Noss
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, The Netherlands.
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Seth R, Romaschin AD, Ribeiro M, Tarlo SM. CR3 (CD11b/CD18) activation of nasal neutrophils: a measure of upper airway endotoxin exposure. Biomarkers 2009; 14:473-9. [DOI: 10.3109/13547500903183947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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16
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Traversi D, Alessandria L, Schilirò T, Chiadò Piat S, Gilli G. Meteo-climatic conditions influence the contribution of endotoxins to PM10 in an urban polluted environment. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 12:484-90. [PMID: 20145891 DOI: 10.1039/b913314c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A decrease in inhalable particulate matter (PM10) pollution is a top priority in urban areas of northern Italy. The sources of PM10 are both anthropogenic and natural. The former have been broadly investigated while the latter are less well known. Endotoxins are natural compounds of PM10 and are potentially toxic. Endotoxins are part of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. Their health effects are linked to environmental exposure. The effects mainly consist of respiratory symptoms, including pulmonary function decline. The occurrence of endotoxins has been proven in several occupational environments where organic materials supply an optimal substrate for bacteria growth. Knowledge about the presence of these contaminants in the environment is limited. The aim of this work is to evaluate the endotoxin levels of PM10 in the urban air of Turin, and to investigate the influence of seasonal and meteo-climatic factors. The sampling was conducted from January to December 2007. Endotoxin determination was performed by an LAL assay after extraction optimization. The PM10 levels ranged from 11.90 to 104.74 microg/m(3) (48.28 +/- 23.09) while the endotoxin levels ranged between 0.09 and 0.94 EU/m(3) (0.42 +/- 0.23). The seasonal trends of PM10 and endotoxin are inversely proportional. There is a statistically significant correlation between endotoxin and temperature (r = 0.532 p < 0.01), as well as between endotoxin and relative humidity (r = -0.457 p < 0.01). However, temperature has a predominant role. We observed that urban endotoxin concentrations are narrow in range and that the contribution of endotoxins to the total PM10 is only two millionths.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Traversi
- Department of Public Health and Microbiology, University of Turin, via Santena 5 bis 10126, Turin, Italy.
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17
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Liebers V, Stubel H, Düser M, Brüning T, Raulf-Heimsoth M. Standardization of whole blood assay for determination of pyrogenic activity in organic dust samples. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2009; 212:547-56. [PMID: 19395310 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2009.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2009] [Revised: 03/11/2009] [Accepted: 03/14/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
To characterize bioaerosol exposure at workplaces standardized methods are necessary. Activity of endotoxin, one component of organic dust, can be quantified with the Limulus-Amoebocyte Lysat test (LAL test). Further information with respect to pyrogenic activity of the organic dust can be achieved by measuring cytokine release of human blood after stimulation with the dust or its extract (whole blood assay). The aim of our study was the standardization of the whole blood assay (WBA) while using cryo-preserved human blood (Qualis Laboratorium) and to compare the outcome of the different cytokines determined by incubation of the blood cells with extracts from dust samples collected at various workplaces. Cytokine release (IL-1 beta, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-alpha, MCP-1) was measured by ELISA after stimulation of fresh blood from ten donors as well as cryo-preserved human blood. In both cases blood was stimulated with E. coli endotoxin as well as with 30 dust filter extracts from various workplaces. All dust filter extracts were investigated in the WBA using cryo-preserved blood as well as with LAL test. E. coli endotoxin stimulated the release of IL-1 beta, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-alpha and MCP-1 in a dose-dependent manner in fresh as well as cryo-preserved human whole blood. 200 pg/ml E. coli endotoxin induced maximal cytokine release in cryo-preserved blood (mean value for IL-1 beta 2509+/-418 pg/ml; n=13 experiments) whereas fresh blood of single donors reached a maximum release when stimulated with 50 ng/ml endotoxin (mean value of ten donors 1125+/-553 pg/ml IL-1beta). Using cryo-preserved blood the coefficient of variation (CV) regarding the interassay variability was below 21% for all cytokines measured. Regarding 26 dust sample extracts correlation coefficient r2 for LAL test and WBA was between 0.90 and 0.93 (Pearson) for IL-1 beta, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-alpha whereas correlation for MCP-1 was lower (r(2)=0.59). Two dust sample extracts which showed similar reactivity patterns in LAL test as well as in WBA with respect to IL-1 beta, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-alpha could be differentiated by measuring MCP-1. In conclusion, cryo-preserved blood pools are suitable to standardize WBA. Combination of different outcome variables like IL-1 beta and MCP-1 improve the characterization from the inflammatory potency of workplace related dust samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Liebers
- BGFA-Research Institute of Occupational Medicine of German Social Accident; Insurance, Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany.
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Berndt A, Derksen FJ, Edward Robinson N. Endotoxin concentrations within the breathing zone of horses are higher in stables than on pasture. Vet J 2008; 183:54-57. [PMID: 18930664 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2008.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2008] [Revised: 08/29/2008] [Accepted: 09/04/2008] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Inflammatory airway disease is common in stabled horses, with a prevalence of 17.3% in Michigan pleasure horses. Stable dust is rich in endotoxin, which may induce neutrophilic airway inflammation. Climatological conditions (ambient temperature and relative humidity) may influence endotoxin concentrations in pastures. The aim of this project was to determine if endotoxin levels in the breathing zone of horses in stables were higher than of horses on pasture, and if the endotoxin on pasture was associated with climatological conditions. Endotoxin exposure of six horses that were stabled or on pasture was determined by a Limulus amebocyte lysate assay. Climatological data were obtained from the US National Climatic Data Center. Endotoxin exposure was significantly higher (about 8-fold) in stables than on pasture. On pasture, endotoxin varied widely, despite constant climatological conditions. It was concluded that stabled horses are exposed to higher endotoxin concentrations than horses on pastures. Local endotoxin concentrations may be more important than ambient climatological conditions in determining endotoxin exposure of individual horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annerose Berndt
- Pulmonary Laboratory, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, United States
| | - Frederik J Derksen
- Pulmonary Laboratory, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, United States.
| | - N Edward Robinson
- Pulmonary Laboratory, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, United States
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Liebers V, Raulf-Heimsoth M, Brüning T. Health effects due to endotoxin inhalation (review). Arch Toxicol 2008; 82:203-10. [DOI: 10.1007/s00204-008-0290-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2007] [Accepted: 01/30/2008] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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