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Januario CDF, Da Costa CS, Dos Santos FCF, Miranda-Alves L, Correa BS, Carneiro MTWD, Graceli JB. Subacute exposure to a mixture of tributyltin plus mercury impairs reproductive axis function, exacerbating premature ovarian insufficiency features and reducing fertility in female rats. Reprod Toxicol 2024:108670. [PMID: 39032759 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2024.108670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Tributyltin (TBT) and mercury (Hg) are endocrine-disrupting chemicals that individually cause reproductive complications. However, the reproductive consequences of exposure to a mixture of TBT plus Hg are not well known. We hypothesized that exposure to a mixture of TBT plus Hg would alter hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis function. Female rats were exposed to this mixture daily for 15 days, after which chemical accumulation in the tissues, morphology, hormone levels, inflammation, fibrosis, and protein expression in the reproductive organs were assessed. Increases in tin (Sn) and Hg levels were detected in the serum, HPG axis, and uterus of TBT-Hg rats. TBT-Hg rats exhibited irregular estrous cycles. TBT-Hg rats showed an increase in gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) protein expression and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and a reduction in luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. Reduced ovarian reserve, antral follicles, corpora lutea (CL) number, and estrogen levels and increased atretic and cystic follicles were found, suggesting that TBT-Hg exposure exacerbated premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) features. Furthermore, TBT-Hg rats exhibited increased ovarian mast cell numbers, expression of the inflammatory markers IL-6 and collagen deposition. Apoptosis and reduced gland number were observed in the uteri of TBT-Hg rats. A reduction in the number of pups/litter for 90 days was found in TBT-Hg rats, suggesting impaired fertility. Strong negative correlations were found between serum and ovarian Sn levels and ovarian Hg levels and ovarian reserve and CL number. Collectively, these data suggest that TBT plus Hg exposure leads to abnormalities in the HPG axis, exacerbating POI features and reducing fertility in female rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cidalia de F Januario
- Department of Morphology, Federal University of Espírito Santo, 290440-090, Vitória, Brazil; Faculty of Health Sciences, Zambeze University, Tete, RHXG+J2G, Mozambique
| | - Charles S Da Costa
- Department of Morphology, Federal University of Espírito Santo, 290440-090, Vitória, Brazil
| | - Flavia C F Dos Santos
- Department of Morphology, Federal University of Espírito Santo, 290440-090, Vitória, Brazil
| | - Leandro Miranda-Alves
- Experimental Endocrinology Research, Development and Innovation Group, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, 21941-904, Ilha do Governador, Brazil
| | - Bruna S Correa
- Dept of Chemistry, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Brazil, 29075-910, Vitória, Brazil
| | - Maria T W D Carneiro
- Dept of Chemistry, Federal University of Espirito Santo, Brazil, 29075-910, Vitória, Brazil
| | - Jones B Graceli
- Department of Morphology, Federal University of Espírito Santo, 290440-090, Vitória, Brazil.
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2
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Kaur M, Ghosal A, Kaur R, Chhabra K, Kapoor HS, Khetarpal P. Exposure to potentially toxic elements (PTEs) and the risk of male infertility- A Systematic review and meta-analysis. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2024; 53:102782. [PMID: 38554943 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2024.102782] [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: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility has been defined as a failure to conceive for at least 12 months of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. The male factors are responsible for about 50 % of cases. Various factors such as endocrine, immunological, genetic, exposure to toxicants, and idiopathic factors are involved in male infertility. Recently, the role of PTEs in reproductive performance has been explored by various studies. OBJECTIVES Current systematic review and meta-analysis have been carried out to compile and statistically analyze the findings of relevant studies and reach some conclusion. METHODOLOGY A literature search was done according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines in three scientific literature databases; PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct. Meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4 software. The study's protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023465776). RESULTS Meta-analysis of lead in the blood of infertile cases and healthy controls indicated a significant association with male infertility, observed standard mean difference (SMD) was 0.67 at 95 % confidence interval (CI) (0.07, 1.28), and p = 0.03. In the case of lead analysis in semen, the values are as follows: SMD = 1.19 at 95 % CI (0.42, 1.96) with p = 0.002. Significant association appears for cadmium in semen with SMD 0.92 at 95 % CI (0.54, 1.29) and p < 0.00001. No significant association was observed for arsenic, barium, and mercury in blood. CONCLUSION Most of the studies focus on the detection of PTE in semen samples followed by blood as sample type. Lead and cadmium exposure is significantly associated with male infertility. However, non-significant results for arsenic, barium, and mercury are observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandeep Kaur
- Department of Human Genetics, Punjabi University Patiala, 147002, India
| | - Ahelee Ghosal
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, 151001, India
| | - Rajinder Kaur
- Department of Human Genetics, Punjabi University Patiala, 147002, India
| | - Kiran Chhabra
- Chhabra Hospital & Test Tube Baby Centre, Bathinda, 151001, India
| | | | - Preeti Khetarpal
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, 151001, India.
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3
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Gautam R, Priyadarshini E, Patel AK, Arora T. Assessing the impact and mechanisms of environmental pollutants (heavy metals and pesticides) on the male reproductive system: a comprehensive review. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH. PART C, TOXICOLOGY AND CARCINOGENESIS 2024; 42:126-153. [PMID: 38240636 DOI: 10.1080/26896583.2024.2302738] [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] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
The escalation of technological advancements, coupled with the increased use of hazardous chemicals, has emerged as a significant concern for human health. Exposure to environmental pollutants like heavy metals and pesticides (insecticides, herbicides and fungicides) is known to significantly contribute to various health problems, particularly affecting reproductive health. Disturbances in reproductive potential and reproductive toxicity in males are particularly worrisome. Existing literature suggests that exposure to these environmental pollutants significantly alters male reproductive parameters. Thus, it is imperative to thoroughly analyze, comprehend, and evaluate their impact on male reproductive toxicity. Oxidative stress and disruptions in redox equilibrium are major factors through which these pollutants induce changes in sperm parameters and affect the reproductive system. Insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with the secretion and function of reproductive hormones such as testosterone and luteinizing hormone (LH), consequently impacting spermatogenesis. Additionally, heavy metals are reported to bio-accumulate in reproductive organs, acting as endocrine disruptors and triggering oxidative stress. The co-operative association of these pollutants can lead to severe damage. In this comprehensive review, we have conducted an in-depth analysis of the impact of these environmental pollutants on the male reproductive system, shedding light on the underlying mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Gautam
- Division of RCN, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Arbind Kumar Patel
- School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Taruna Arora
- Division of RCN, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi, India
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4
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Silva SB, Ruiz TFR, Dos Santos FCA, Taboga SR, Vilamaior PSL. Impacts of heavy metal exposure on the prostate of murine models: Mechanisms of toxicity. Reprod Toxicol 2023; 120:108448. [PMID: 37490985 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108448] [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: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Heavy metals are elements found into the environment mainly due to anthropogenic activities. Naturally occurring and higher released doses cause disorders in the prostate, which depends on appropriate hormonal regulation, and exposure to heavy metals may impair prostate homeostasis. The current work highlighted the main mechanisms of toxicity of different environmental heavy metal contaminants, such as aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury, and nickel, and their impacts found in the prostate morphophysiology of murine models. The repercussions triggered by heavy metals on the prostate include hormonal imbalance and oxidative damage, leading to morphological alterations, which can vary according to the chemical properties of each element, exposure time and concentration, and age. The information of altered biological pathways and its impacts on the prostate of exposed murines are related to human outcomes being useful in the real context of human exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Bicalho Silva
- Department of Biological Sciences, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thalles Fernando Rocha Ruiz
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Cristina Alcantara Dos Santos
- Department of Histology, Embryology and Cell Biology, Laboratory of Microscopy Applied to Reproduction, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Sebastião Roberto Taboga
- Department of Biological Sciences, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Patricia Simone Leite Vilamaior
- Department of Biological Sciences, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
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5
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Coimbra JLP, Dantas GDPF, de Andrade LM, Brener MRG, Viana PIM, Lopes RA, O G Gontijo D, Ervilha LOG, Assis MQ, Barcelos LS, E Szawka R, Damasceno DC, Machado-Neves M, Mota AP, Costa GMJ. Gold nanoparticle intratesticular injections as a potential animal sterilization tool: Long-term reproductive and toxicological implications. Toxicology 2023; 492:153543. [PMID: 37150288 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2023.153543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) animal sterilizing potential after intratesticular injections and long-term adverse reproductive and systemic effects. Adult male Wistar rats were divided into control and gold nanoparticle (AuNPs) groups. The rats received 200µL of saline or AuNPs solution (16µg/mL) on experimental days 1 and 7 (ED1 and ED7). After 150 days, the testicular blood flow was measured, and the rats were mated with females. After mating, male animals were euthanized for histological, cellular, and molecular evaluations. The female fertility indices and fetal development were also recorded. The results indicated increased blood flow in the testes of treated animals. Testes from treated rats had histological abnormalities, shorter seminiferous epithelia, and oxidative stress. Although the sperm concentration was lower in the AuNP-treated rats, there were no alterations in sperm morphology. Animals exposed to AuNPs had decreased male fertility indices, and their offspring had lighter and less efficient placentas. Additionally, the anogenital distance was longer in female fetuses. There were no changes in the histology of the kidney and liver, the lipid profile, and the serum levels of LH, testosterone, AST, ALT, ALP, albumin, and creatinine. The primary systemic effect was an increase in MDA levels in the liver and kidney, with only the liver experiencing an increase in CAT activity. In conclusion, AuNPs have a long-term impact on reproduction with very slight alterations in animal health. The development of reproductive biotechnologies that eliminate germ cells or treat local cancers can benefit from using AuNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- John L P Coimbra
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Graziela de P F Dantas
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Lídia M de Andrade
- Laboratory of Nanomaterials, ICEX/UFMG, Nanobiomedical Research Group, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Marcos R G Brener
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Pedro I M Viana
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Roberta A Lopes
- Laboratory of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Daniele O G Gontijo
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Luiz O G Ervilha
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Toxicology, Department of General Biology, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - Mirian Q Assis
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Toxicology, Department of General Biology, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - Luciola S Barcelos
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Raphael E Szawka
- Laboratory of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Débora C Damasceno
- Laboratory of Experimental Research on Gynecology and Obstetrics, Postgraduate Course of Tocogynecology, Botucatu Medical School, Unesp
| | - Mariana Machado-Neves
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Toxicology, Department of General Biology, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - Ana P Mota
- Clinical Hematology Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Guilherme M J Costa
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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6
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Karabulut S, Korkmaz S, Güneş E, Kabil E, Keskin İ, Usta M, Omurtag GZ. Seminal trace elements and their relationship with sperm parameters. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14610. [PMID: 36175375 DOI: 10.1111/and.14610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Male reproductive problems may derive from many reasons including the environmental toxicants which may either intaken by occupational exposure, nutrition or bad air quality. The increased exposure to these substances due to rapid industrial development and technology has raised the questions: Is there a relationship between sperm parameters and these substances, and if so, in what extent? Results of studies on the subject reported conflicting results, many of which were not investigated in the seminal plasma. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the relationship between 23 metals and trace elements in human seminal plasma and semen parameters many of which were not investigated before. Levels of 23 metals in human seminal plasma were assessed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). We examined the differences between subjects with normal ejaculate (normozoospermia) and pathologic ejaculate (with at least one abnormal semen parameter) according to the WHO criteria. The only significant difference was detected for Se while the other element's difference was not statistically significant. Se was statistically significantly increased in normal semen group suggesting the positive effect of this element on semen parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seda Karabulut
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Health Science and Technologies Research Institute (SABITA), Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Serol Korkmaz
- Doping Control Laboratory, Pendik Veterinary Control Institute, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ertuğrul Güneş
- Doping Control Laboratory, Pendik Veterinary Control Institute, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Erol Kabil
- Doping Control Laboratory, Pendik Veterinary Control Institute, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - İlknur Keskin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Health Science and Technologies Research Institute (SABITA), Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Melek Usta
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Health Science and Technologies Research Institute (SABITA), Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gülden Zehra Omurtag
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
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7
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Nunzio AD, Giarra A, Toscanesi M, Amoresano A, Piscopo M, Ceretti E, Zani C, Lorenzetti S, Trifuoggi M, Montano L. Comparison between Macro and Trace Element Concentrations in Human Semen and Blood Serum in Highly Polluted Areas in Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191811635. [PMID: 36141930 PMCID: PMC9517217 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Macro and trace elements are important regulators of biological processes, including those ones linked to reproduction. Among them, Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Se, and Zn ensure normal spermatic functions. Hence, the aim of this study was to evaluate the concentrations of 26 macro and trace elements (Al, As, Ba, Be, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, Pb, Rb, Sb, Se, Sn, Sr, U, V, and Zn) in blood serum and also in semen of healthy young men, homogeneous for age, anthropometric characteristics, and lifestyle, living in three highly polluted areas in Italy. Furthermore, a comparison among three geographical areas was performed to highlight any difference in the investigated parameters and, overall, to speculate any correlations between chemical elements and semen quality. Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) among the three areas were found for each investigated element, in both semen and serum samples, where inter-area differences were more evident in semen than in blood serum, suggesting human semen as an early environmental marker. Considering the homogeneity of three cohorts, these differences could be due more to environmental conditions in the recruiting areas, suggesting that variations in those involved in reproductive-associated pathways can have an impact on male fertility. Nevertheless, more research is needed to evaluate threshold values for sperm dysfunction and male infertility. Actually, the role of different dietary intake and environmental exposure underlying the observed differences in the recruiting areas is under further investigation for the same cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Di Nunzio
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Antonella Giarra
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Toscanesi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Angela Amoresano
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
- Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture e Biosistemi-Consorzio Interuniversitario, Viale delle Medaglie d’Oro, 305, 00136 Rome, Italy
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Ceretti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Claudia Zani
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefano Lorenzetti
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Trifuoggi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Montano
- Andrology Unit and Service of Lifestyle Medicine in UroAndrology, Local Health Authority (ASL) Salerno, Coordination Unit of the Network for Environmental and Reproductive Health (EcoFoodFertility Project), Italy “Oliveto Citra Hospital”, Oliveto Citra, 84020 Salerno, Italy
- PhD Program in Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
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8
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Machado-Neves M. Effect of heavy metals on epididymal morphology and function: An integrative review. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 291:133020. [PMID: 34848222 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.133020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Male fertility has deteriorated over the last decades, and environmental risk factors are among the possible causes of this phenomenon. Pollutants such as heavy metals might accumulate in male reproductive organs to levels that are associated with reproductive disorders. Several studies reported detrimental effects of inorganic arsenic (iAs+3/iAs+5), cadmium (Cd+2), lead (Pb+2), and mercury (Hg+2/CH3Hg+2) on the epididymis, which plays a crucial role in sperm maturation. However, the magnitude of their effects and the consequences on the physiology of the epididymis are still unclear. Therefore, an integrative review with meta-analyses was conducted examining 138 studies to determine how exposure to arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury affects epididymal morphology and functions, using primarily murine data from experimental studies as a source. This study showed that exposure to metal(loids) reduced epididymal weight, sperm motility, and sperm number. Inorganic arsenic, cadmium, and lead damaged sperm structures within the epididymal duct. While sodium arsenite, sodium arsenate, and lead acetate generate oxidative stress by an imbalance between ROS production and scavenging, cadmium chloride causes an increase in the pH level of the luminal fluid (from 6.5 to 7.37) that diminishes sperm viability. Inorganic arsenic induced a delay in the sperm transit time by modulating noradrenaline and dopamine secretion. Subacute exposure to heavy metals at concentrations < 0.1 mg L-1 initiates a dyshomeostasis of calcium, copper, iron, and zinc that disturbs sperm parameters and reduces epididymal weight. These alterations worsen with prolonged exposure time and higher doses. Most studies evaluated the effects of concentrations > 1.1 mg L-1 of heavy metals on the epididymis rather than doses with relevant importance for human health risk. This meta-analytical study faced limitations regarding a deeper analysis of epididymis physiology. Hence, several recommendations for future investigations are provided. This review creates a baseline for the comprehension of epididymal toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Machado-Neves
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Av. P.H. Rolfs, s/n, DBG, Campus Universitário, Viçosa, 36570-900, Minas Gerais, Brasil.
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9
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Madhu NR, Sarkar B, Slama P, Jha NK, Ghorai SK, Jana SK, Govindasamy K, Massanyi P, Lukac N, Kumar D, Kalita JC, Kesari KK, Roychoudhury S. Effect of Environmental Stressors, Xenobiotics, and Oxidative Stress on Male Reproductive and Sexual Health. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1391:33-58. [PMID: 36472815 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-12966-7_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This article examines the environmental factor-induced oxidative stress (OS) and their effects on male reproductive and sexual health. There are several factors that induce OS, i.e. radition, metal contamination, xenobiotic compounds, and cigarette smoke and lead to cause toxicity in the cells through metabolic or bioenergetic processes. These environmental factors may produce free radicals and enhance the reactive oxygen species (ROS). Free radicals are molecules that include oxygen and disbalance the amount of electrons that can create major chemical chains in the body and cause oxidation. Oxidative damage to cells may impair male fertility and lead to abnormal embryonic development. Moreover, it does not only cause a vast number of health issues such as ageing, cancer, atherosclerosis, insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and neurodegenerative disorders but also decreases the motility of spermatozoa while increasing sperm DNA damage, impairing sperm mitochondrial membrane lipids and protein kinases. This chapter mainly focuses on the environmental stressors with further discussion on the mechanisms causing congenital impairments due to poor sexual health and transmitting altered signal transduction pathways in male gonadal tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nithar Ranjan Madhu
- Department of Zoology, Acharya Prafulla Chandra College, New Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Bhanumati Sarkar
- Department of Botany, Acharya Prafulla Chandra College, New Barrackpore, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Petr Slama
- Department of Animal Morphology, Physiology and Genetics, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Niraj Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering & Technology (SET), Sharda University, Greater Noida, India
| | | | - Sandip Kumar Jana
- Department of Zoology, Bajkul Milani Mahavidyalaya, Purba Medinipur, West Bengal, India
| | - Kadirvel Govindasamy
- Animal Production Division, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Umiam, Meghalaya, India
| | - Peter Massanyi
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Norbert Lukac
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Dhruv Kumar
- School of Health Sciences & Technology, UPES University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Jogen C Kalita
- Department of Zoology, Gauhati University, Guwahati, India
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10
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Singh M, Verma Y, Rana SVS. Attributes of oxidative stress in the reproductive toxicity of nickel oxide nanoparticles in male rats. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:5703-5717. [PMID: 34424461 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15657-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The nanoparticles of nickel are now being widely used in industrial, commercial, and biomedical applications. In recent years, health safety issues posed by them have aroused concerns among health scientists. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of oxidative stress in male reproductive toxicity induced by nickel oxide nanoparticles in rats. Male Wistar rats (140-170 g) were administered with nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiONPs) (particles size <30 nm) (5 mg/kg body weight) by gavage for 30 days. Its effects on different parameters, viz., sperm count, motility, and morphology, were investigated. DNA damage in sperms was monitored through comet assay. All these observations indicated a spermicidal effect of NiONPs. Results on lipid peroxidation (MDA, H2O2, and NO) and oxidative stress (GSH, GPx, and catalase) thus studied in testes exhibited adverse effects of NiONPs. Histopathological results on male reproductive organs, viz., testis, epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicles, and prostate also demonstrated moderate to severe toxicity. A comparison of these results with those obtained on nickel oxide microparticle (NiOMP)-treated rats showed that NiONPs are more toxic than NiOMPs. Furthermore, NiONPs could create an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants in the testes. It is concluded that redox imbalance in testes constitutes a major mechanism of NiONP-induced reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meenu Singh
- Department of Toxicology, Ch. Charan Singh University, Meerut, 250 004, India
| | - Yeshvandra Verma
- Department of Toxicology, Ch. Charan Singh University, Meerut, 250 004, India
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Changes in heavy metal levels, reproductive characteristics, oxidative stress markers and testicular apoptosis in rams raised around thermal power plant. Theriogenology 2021; 179:211-222. [PMID: 34894490 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Male reproductive dysfunction is one of the damages in the organism caused by heavy metals. In this study, it was aimed to investigate the changes in heavy metal levels in serum and testicular tissue, and serum hormone levels, epididymal spermatozoa characteristics, tissue oxidative stress levels, testicular histology and testicular apoptosis level in rams raised in remote and near regions of a thermal power plant. A total of 75 rams were divided into 3 groups according to the regions, where they were born and raised, being far [250 km distance, group 1 (control), n = 25], close (20 km distance, group 2, n = 25) and very close (10 km distance, group 3, n = 25) to the thermal power plant. The blood along with testis and epididymis tissues was taken from the animals after slaughtering. In addition, soil and water heavy metal analyzes were also performed. The highest levels of serum Al, Cr, As, Ag, Sn and testicular Al, V, Ni, Ag, Cd, Cr, As, Pb, and the lowest levels of serum Cu, testicular Cu and Zn were determined in group 3 compared to control. Soil and water heavy metal results were similar to those found in serum and testis. The lowest serum testosterone level, tissue glutathione-peroxidase and catalase activities, spermatozoon concentration, and the highest tissue malondialdehyde level, dead spermatozoon rate, Bax apoptotic protein expression level and Bax/Bcl-2 rate alongside some testicular histopathological lesions were found in group 3 in comparison to control. Significant correlations were determined between some heavy metal levels and some parameters measured. As a result, heavy metals accumulate in the soil and water in the region close to the thermal power plant. The endocrine and exocrine reproductive potentials of rams born and grown in these regions were clearly damaged by the increased testicular heavy metals due to water drank and herbs consumed.
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The Influence of Zinc and Heavy Metals in Feed and Water on the Quality of Cryopreserved Bull Semen. ACTA VET-BEOGRAD 2021. [DOI: 10.2478/acve-2021-0028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the influence of different concentrations of zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg) and cadmium (Cd) found in the feed and water provided to bulls on the concentrations of these metals in cryopreserved bull semen, and to determine their influence onto semen quality parameters. Correlations between heavy metal concentrations in the semen and the quality parameters of semen as estimated by computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) and flow cytometry (FC) methods were determined.
A total of 40 cryopreserved semen samples originating from bulls housed in 4 different centers for artificial insemination (A, B, C and D) were examined, making a total of 160 samples. The concentrations of metals and semen quality parameters were determined in cryopreserved semen of 10 bulls from each center, namely 4 samples from each bull. Concentrations of Zn, Pb, Hg and Cd in hay and concentrated feed were within the allowed limits as proposed by the National Research Council (NRC, 2000). A strong negative correlation was detected between curvilinear velocity (VCL) and Zn concentrations in the semen (P < 0.01; r = -0.772) in group D, and a positive correlation of VCL with Pb concentrations (P < 0.05 and r = 0.718) in group B. Mercury concentrations in cryopreserved semen correlated negatively to the percent of live sperm cells with intact acrosomes (V/IA: P < 0.05; r = -0.640) and positively with the percent of dead sperm cells with damaged acrosomes (D/DA: P < 0.01; r = 0.766) in group D. This finding confirms the hypothesis that Hg, even at low concentrations, may cause acrosome damage.
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Lettieri G, Notariale R, Carusone N, Giarra A, Trifuoggi M, Manna C, Piscopo M. New Insights into Alterations in PL Proteins Affecting Their Binding to DNA after Exposure of Mytilus galloprovincialis to Mercury-A Possible Risk to Sperm Chromatin Structure? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:5893. [PMID: 34072703 PMCID: PMC8198333 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a highly toxic and widespread pollutant. We previously reported that the exposure of Mytilus galloprovincialis for 24 h to doses of HgCl2 similar to those found in seawater (range 1-100 pM) produced alterations in the properties of protamine-like (PL) proteins that rendered them unable to bind and protect DNA from oxidative damage. In the present work, to deepen our studies, we analyzed PL proteins by turbidimetry and fluorescence spectroscopy and performed salt-induced release analyses of these proteins from sperm nuclei after the exposure of mussels to HgCl2 at the same doses. Turbidity assays indicated that mercury, at these doses, induced PL protein aggregates, whereas fluorescence spectroscopy measurements showed mercury-induced conformational changes. Indeed, the mobility of the PLII band changed in sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, particularly after exposure to 10-pM HgCl2, confirming the mercury-induced structural rearrangement. Finally, exposure to HgCl2 at all doses produced alterations in PL-DNA binding, detectable by DNA absorption spectra after the PL protein addition and by a decreased release of PLII and PLIII from the sperm nuclei. In conclusion, in this paper, we reported Hg-induced PL protein alterations that could adversely affect mussel reproductive activity, providing an insight into the molecular mechanism of Hg-related infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Lettieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (N.C.)
| | - Rosaria Notariale
- Department of Precision Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via Luigi de Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy; (R.N.); (C.M.)
| | - Nadia Carusone
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (N.C.)
| | - Antonella Giarra
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.G.); (M.T.)
| | - Marco Trifuoggi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (A.G.); (M.T.)
| | - Caterina Manna
- Department of Precision Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, via Luigi de Crecchio, 80138 Naples, Italy; (R.N.); (C.M.)
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (N.C.)
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Sun S, Wang N, Shi X. In vivo visualization assay to evaluate the effects of maternal exposure to mercury on offspring bioaccumulation in the oriental river prawn (Macrobrachium nipponense). CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 270:129440. [PMID: 33412353 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.129440] [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: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a persistent pollutant that accumulates in aquatic animals. However, studies related to understand how gonad tissue of this species responds to mercury exposure and elucidation of mercury bioaccumulation in crustacean offspring by cross-generational, are still sparse. The present study aimed to assess the bioaccumulation of Hg2+in vivo in prawn offspring by a specific aggregation-induced emission fluorogen (AIEgen). The 96 h median lethal concentration (LC50) values of mercury to the juveniles were 0.072 mg/L. Hg2+ reduced growth performance, damaged oocyte quality, and inhibited ovary maturation, thus inhibiting gonadal maturation in intact prawns. F1 offspring were exposed to Hg2+ by direct transfer from their F0 parents, as shown by the distribution of mercury in gonads and fertilized eggs. In the medium containing oriental river prawn larvae, the Hg2+ concentration decreased rapidly, indicating fast initial larval uptake of Hg2+. Due to metal ion triggered AIE activity, analysis of fluorescence images showed that prawn offspring accumulated Hg2+ via maternal transfer, and there was a relationship among the photoluminescence intensity, the AIEgen concentration, and mercury levels. The quantitative detection of Hg2+ absorption from prawn larvae by the AIEgen represents a novel analytical technique to understand the dynamics of Hg2+ between maternal and offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengming Sun
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, 201306, China; Hubei International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Fish Passage, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, 443002, China.
| | - Ning Wang
- Wuxi Fishery College, Nanjing Agricultural University, Wuxi, 214081, PR China
| | - Xiaotao Shi
- Hubei International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Fish Passage, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, 443002, China
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Shi X, Chan CPS, Man GKY, Chan DYL, Wong MH, Li TC. Associations between blood metal/ metalloid concentration and human semen quality and sperm function: A cross-sectional study in Hong Kong. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2021; 65:126735. [PMID: 33647736 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2021.126735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The association between metal/metalloid exposure on human sperm quality is still inconclusive. There is a lack of data on the effect of metal/metalloid on sperm function. METHODS The aim of this study was to clarify the association between blood metal/metalloid concentration and traditional and functional sperm parameters, the blood concentration of Pb, Hg, Cd, As, Ni, Mo, Zn, Cu, Se, Fe, Mg, Cr and Ca of 288 men in Hong Kong were assessed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry, and sperm parameters including sperm concentration, motility, morphology, vitality, total sperm count, total motile sperm count, sperm DNA fragmentation and sperm acrosome reaction were measured. Demographic and lifestyle questionnaires were also provided for all participants. Multivariable linear regression analysis was performed to test the association between blood metal/ metalloid concentration and semen parameters after adjusting for relevant confounding variables. RESULTS The results showed that moderate to high level of blood Pb concentration (>27.19 μg/L) appeared to be negatively associated with sperm morphology (P < 0.05); high level of blood Cd concentration (>1.44 μg/L) was negatively associated with sperm acrosome reaction (P < 0.05); Mo was positively associated with semen volume (P < 0.05), however, high level of blood Mo concentration (>13.52 μg/L) was negatively associated with sperm vitality (P < 0.05); high level of blood Zn concentration (>6.20 mg/L) was positively associated with sperm vitality (P < 0.05); moderate level of blood Fe concentration (526.89-566.63 mg/L) was positively associated with sperm acrosome reaction (P < 0.05); moderate level of blood Ca concentration (55.92-66.10 mg/L) was positively associated with semen volume (P < 0.05); however, lower level of blood Ca concentration (45.90-55.92 mg/L) was negatively associated with sperm morphology (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Our results suggested that the sperm function could be affected by blood Cd and Fe concentration and traditional sperm parameters could be affected by blood concentration of Mo, Zn, Pb and Ca.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Shi
- Assisted Conception Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China; Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, People's Republic of China
| | - Carol Pui Shan Chan
- Assisted Conception Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Grace Ka Yan Man
- Consortium on Health, Environment, Education and Research (CHEER), Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - David Yiu Leung Chan
- Assisted Conception Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming Hung Wong
- Consortium on Health, Environment, Education and Research (CHEER), Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, People's Republic of China.
| | - Tin-Chiu Li
- Assisted Conception Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People's Republic of China.
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Liu J, Portnoy J, Um P, Cui N, Rudo-Hutt A, Yan C, Raine A, Chen A. Blood lead and mercury levels are associated with low resting heart rate in community adolescent boys. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2021; 233:113685. [PMID: 33556713 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2020.113685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
While the neurotoxic effects of heavy metals at even low levels have been well-studied, few studies have examined the cardiovascular effects of heavy metals on resting heart rate and these have focused on adult populations. The present study aimed to examine the association between low-level environmental lead and mercury exposure and resting heart rate in community adolescents. As part of the China Jintan Cohort Study, 532 adolescents aged 12 years (SD = 0.6) were tested for blood levels of lead (BLL) and mercury (BML) and resting heart rate (RHR). Generalized linear models were conducted to test the relationship between BLL and BML and RHR, controlling for children's sex, age, and socioeconomic status. Analyses were clustered at the preschool level when the children were recruited to adjust for standard error. The mean (SD) BLL and BML were 3.14 (SD = 1.19) μg/dL and 1.26 (SD = 0.68) μg/L at age 12 years, respectively. After adjusting for confounders, we found a significant interaction between BML and BLL in predicting RHR in boys (B = -1.27, SE = 0.49, p < 0.01, n = 289). We created BLL and BML groups in boys based on median cut-offs. Boys in the High BLL/High BML group had significantly lower RHR (mean = 84.22 beats per minute [bpm], SD = 8.77, n = 61) than boys in the Low BLL/Low BML group (mean = 89.03 bpm, SD = 10.75, n = 69; p < 0.05). BML and BLL did not interact to predict RHR in girls (B = -0.18, SE = 0.88, p > 0.05, n = 242). Combined high BLL and BML were associated with low RHR in community adolescent boys. Low RHR is an indication of chronic under-arousal and has been implicated in psychopathology, particularly for externalizing behavior. Our findings may stimulate further communication and research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianghong Liu
- University of Pennsylvania, School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Jill Portnoy
- University of Massachusetts Lowell, School of Criminology and Justice Studies, Lowell, MA, USA
| | - Phoebe Um
- University of Pennsylvania, School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Naixue Cui
- Shandong University, School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong Province, China
| | - Anna Rudo-Hutt
- University of Pennsylvania, School of Arts and Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Chonghai Yan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Adrian Raine
- University of Pennsylvania, Departments of Criminology, Psychiatry, and Psychology, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Aimin Chen
- University of Pennsylvania, Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Informatics, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Effects of Cadmium, Lead, and Mercury on the Structure and Function of Reproductive Organs. TOXICS 2020; 8:toxics8040094. [PMID: 33137881 PMCID: PMC7711607 DOI: 10.3390/toxics8040094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive organs are essential not only for the life of an individual but also for the survival and development of the species. The response of reproductive organs to toxic substances differs from that of other target organs, and they may serve as an ideal “barometer” for the deleterious effects of environmental pollution on animal and human health. The incidence of infertility, cancers, and associated maladies has increased in the last fifty years or more, while various anthropogenic activities have released into the environment numerous toxic substances, including cadmium, lead, and mercury. Data from epidemiological studies suggested that environmental exposure to cadmium, lead, and mercury may have produced reproductive and developmental toxicity. The present review focused on experimental studies using rats, mice, avian, and rabbits to demonstrate unambiguously effects of cadmium, lead, or mercury on the structure and function of reproductive organs. In addition, relevant human studies are discussed. The experimental studies reviewed have indicated that the testis and ovary are particularly sensitive to cadmium, lead, and mercury because these organs are distinguished by an intense cellular activity, where vital processes of spermatogenesis, oogenesis, and folliculogenesis occur. In ovaries, manifestation of toxicity induced by cadmium, lead, or mercury included decreased follicular growth, occurrence of follicular atresia, degeneration of the corpus luteum, and alterations in cycle. In testes, toxic effects following exposure to cadmium, lead, or mercury included alterations of seminiferous tubules, testicular stroma, and decrease of spermatozoa count, motility and viability, and aberrant spermatozoa morphology.
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Anyanwu BO, Orisakwe OE. Current mechanistic perspectives on male reproductive toxicity induced by heavy metals. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH. PART C, TOXICOLOGY AND CARCINOGENESIS 2020; 38:204-244. [PMID: 32648503 DOI: 10.1080/26896583.2020.1782116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Environmental and occupational exposures to heavy metals have led to various deleterious damages to the biological system of which infertility is one of them. Infertility is a global public health concern, affecting 15% of all couples of reproductive age. Out of the 100% cases of reported infertility among couples, 40% of the cases are related to male factors; including decreased semen quality. This review focuses on the recent mechanistic perspectives of heavy metal-induced male reproductive toxicity. The associated toxic metal-mediated mechanisms of male reproductive toxicity include ion mimicry, disruption of cell signaling pathways, oxidative stress, altered gene expression, epigenetic regulation of gene expression, apoptosis, disruption of testis/blood barrier, inflammation and endocrine disruption. The current literature suggests that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) mediate paternal intergenerational epigenetic inheritance and thus has a direct functional importance, as well as possess novel biomarker potential, for male reproductive toxicity. To identify the specific ncRNAs with the most profound impacts on heavy metal-induced male reproductive toxicity should be thrust of further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brilliance Onyinyechi Anyanwu
- World Bank Africa Centre of Excellence in Oilfield Chemicals Research (CEFOR), University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
| | - Orish Ebere Orisakwe
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
- World Bank Africa Centre of Excellence in Public Health and Toxicological Research (PUTOR), University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
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20
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Fadda LM, Alhusaini AM, Al-Qahtani QH, Ali HM, Hasan IH. Role of α-tocopherol and Lactobacillus plantarum in the alleviation of mercuric chloride-induced testicular atrophy in rat's model: Implication of molecular mechanisms. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2020; 34:e22481. [PMID: 32134168 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The present work was aimed to evaluate the protective effects of alpha-tocopherol (α-toco) and/or Lactobacillus plantarum (LCB) against testicular atrophy induced by mercuric chloride (MCH). Rats were injected with 5 mg/kg MCH for 5 days consecutively, then treated with 100 mg/kg α-toco and 6 × 1010 CFU 1.8701/kg LCB alone or together for 3 weeks. The MCH elevated serum TNF-α, IL- 6, caspase-3, and testicular malondialdehyde. However, serum testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, testicular messenger RNA of a steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, 17-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, glutathione level, and superoxide dismutase activity were decreased. Protein expression of Nrf2 was downregulated whereas that of Bax and DNA fragmentation was upregulated in the testicular tissues. Treatment with α-toco and LCB ameliorated the deviated biochemical parameters and improved tissue injury. It was concluded that the combination of LCB and α-toco achieved promising results in the amelioration of MCH-induced testicular atrophy. Nrf2, Bax expressions, and DNA fragmentation are involved in the testicular atrophy induced by MCH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila M Fadda
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Ahlam M Alhusaini
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Qamraa H Al-Qahtani
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA
| | - Hanaa M Ali
- Common First Year, King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA.,Genetic and Cytology Department, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Iman H Hasan
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA
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Jahan S, Azad T, Ayub A, Ullah A, Afsar T, Almajwal A, Razak S. Ameliorating potency of Chenopodium album Linn. and vitamin C against mercuric chloride-induced oxidative stress in testes of Sprague Dawley rats. Environ Health Prev Med 2019; 24:62. [PMID: 31759394 PMCID: PMC6875164 DOI: 10.1186/s12199-019-0820-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mercury has been documented as an industrial risk that posed a serious danger to human health. Mercury exposure results in oxidative stress that may lead to the pathogenesis of male reproductive dysfunction. The present study investigated the ameliorating potential of Chenopodium album L. and vitamin C against mercuric chloride-induced oxidative deterioration of reproductive functions in adult male rats. METHODS Group 1 (control) received saline. Group 2 received Mercury (0.15 mg/kg b.w, i.p) dissolved in distilled water. Groups 3 and 4 were given oral gavage of vitamin C (200 mg/kg b.w) and the ethanolic extract of C. album (200 mg/kg b.w) respectively, along with Mercury (0.15 mg/kg b.w, i.p). Group 5 was treated only with C. album (200 mg/kg b.w). After 30 days of the treatment, the rats were dissected and their testicular tissue and the cauda epididymis were used for biochemical analysis while blood plasma was used for protein determination. RESULTS The applied dose-treatment of Mercury-induced oxidative stress in the testis and cauda epididymis tissues of the rats was apparent by a noteworthy decrease in total protein, CAT, SOD, POD, and GST values while there was increase in ROS and TBARS levels. Furthermore, Mercury decreases daily sperm production and enhanced sperm DNA damage as noticeable by an increase in the head and tail length of comets and decrease in intact DNA. There was no significant effect on the body weight and the weight of the reproductive tissues. Treatment with C. album significantly ameliorated the total protein, ROS, and TBARS content. Similarly, the level of CAT, SOD, POD, and GST was significantly improved and the daily sperm production was significantly increased. Furthermore, C. album administration significantly protected Mercury-induced sperm DNA damage. The results of the extract treatment group were compared with those of vitamin C in detoxifying the oxidative stress and restoring the sperm parameters. CONCLUSION C. album showed protection against Mercury-induced oxidative stress by ameliorating antioxidant enzyme activity, daily sperm production, and DNA damage in rat testes. This suggests that C. album could be beneficial against toxicity induced by an environmental toxicant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarwat Jahan
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Tayyaba Azad
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Amina Ayub
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Asad Ullah
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Tayyaba Afsar
- Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali Almajwal
- Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Suhail Razak
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan. .,Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
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Ibrahim ATA, Banaee M, Sureda A. Selenium protection against mercury toxicity on the male reproductive system of Clarias gariepinus. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2019; 225:108583. [PMID: 31394254 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2019.108583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to evaluate the protective role of Selenium (Se) (0.1 ppm) on the male reproductive system of the catfish Clarias gariepinus exposed to sublethal doses of Mercury (Hg) (0.04 and 0.12 ppm) for 30 days. Indicators of seminal and gonadal hormone disruption (testosterone, estradiol and 11 keto testosterone), antioxidants (total antioxidant capacity (TAO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)), oxidative stress biomarkers (lipid peroxidation (LPO), percentage of DNA fragmentation, carbonylated proteins (CP) and nitric oxide (NO)) and histopathological alterations in testicles of Clarias gariepinus were determined. The exposure to Hg resulted in a high accumulation of residues of this metal in testicular tissues. The results showed a significant decrease in sperm count, activity and motility and in all gonadal hormones in Hg exposed groups. Hg exposure also induced a decline in TAO, SOD, CAT and GPx, whereas LPO, DNA fragmentation, CP and NO significantly increased in testicles of C. gariepinus respect to the control group. Although exposure to Se did not reduce the degree of mercury bioconcentration in the testicles, the sperm quality parameters were recovered. Moreover, TAO levels and GPx activity significantly increased after fish exposure to Se, whereas CP levels decreased. LPO, NO, CAT and SOD were also partially normalized when compared with the groups exposed to only Hg. In conclusion, the results showed that Hg, even in the small doses is capable to induce reproductive toxicity in the male catfish. Se exposure partially restored the values of biochemical parameters and sperm quality in Hg-treated fish suggesting protective effects against Hg reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mahdi Banaee
- Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Natural Resources and Environment, Behbahan Khatam Alanbia University of Technology, Iran
| | - Antoni Sureda
- Research Group on Community Nutrition and Oxidative Stress, Department of Fundamental Biology and Health Sciences, CIBEROBN Fisiopatología de la Obesidad la Nutrición, University of Balearic Islands, 07122 Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
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Bjørklund G, Chirumbolo S, Dadar M, Pivina L, Lindh U, Butnariu M, Aaseth J. Mercury exposure and its effects on fertility and pregnancy outcome. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2019; 125:317-327. [PMID: 31136080 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.13264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg), a highly toxic environmental pollutant, shows harmfulness which still represents a big concern for human health, including hazards to fertility and pregnancy outcome. Research has shown that Hg could induce impairments in the reproductive function, cellular deformation of the Leydig cells and the seminiferous tubules, and testicular degeneration as well as abnormal menstrual cycles. Some studies investigated spontaneous abortion and complicated fertility outcome due to occupational Hg exposure. Moreover, there is a relation between inhaled Hg vapour and reproductive outcome. This MiniReview evaluates the hypothesis that exposure to Hg may increase the risk of reduced fertility, spontaneous abortion and congenital deficits or abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine (CONEM), Mo i Rana, Norway
| | - Salvatore Chirumbolo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,CONEM Scientific Secretary, Verona, Italy
| | - Maryam Dadar
- Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | - Lyudmila Pivina
- Semey Medical University, Semey, Kazakhstan.,CONEM Kazakhstan Environmental Health and Safety Research Group, Semey Medical University, Semey, Kazakhstan
| | - Ulf Lindh
- Biology Education Centre, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Monica Butnariu
- Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine "King Michael I of Romania" from Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania.,CONEM Romania Biotechnology and Environmental Sciences Group, Banat's University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine "King Michael I of Romania" from Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Jan Aaseth
- Research Department, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Brumunddal, Norway.,Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway
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24
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Merlo E, Schereider IRG, Simões MR, Vassallo DV, Graceli JB. Mercury leads to features of polycystic ovary syndrome in rats. Toxicol Lett 2019; 312:45-54. [PMID: 31071422 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2019.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a heavy metal and Hg exposure is associated with various neural, immune, and cardiovascular abnormalities. However, few studies have evaluated Hg's toxicologic effect on reproductive and metabolic functions. In this study, we assessed whether Hg exposure results in reproductive and metabolic abnormalities. Hg was administered to adult female Wistar rats, mimicking the Hg levels found in exposed human blood, and their reproductive and metabolic function was assessed. Rats exposed to Hg displayed abnormal estrous cyclicity and ovarian follicular development, with a reduction in ovarian antral follicles and an increase in atretic and cystic ovarian follicles. Uterine atrophy with the presence of inflammatory cells was observed in Hg-exposed rats. The presence of abnormal ovarian fat accumulation, as well as increased ovarian lipid drops accumulation, was observed in Hg-exposed rats. Ovarian oxidative stress was also present in the Hg-exposed rats. High fasting glucose levels, glucose, and insulin intolerance were observed in Hg-exposed rats. Thus, these data suggest that Hg exposure led to abnormal reproductive and metabolic features similar to those found in the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) rat models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Merlo
- Dept of Morphology, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | | | - Maylla R Simões
- Dept of Physiology, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | | | - Jones B Graceli
- Dept of Morphology, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Brazil.
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25
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Silva EFDSJD, Missio D, Martinez CS, Vassallo DV, Peçanha FM, Leivas FG, Brum DDS, Wiggers GA. Mercury at environmental relevant levels affects spermatozoa function and fertility capacity in bovine sperm. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2019; 82:268-278. [PMID: 30870101 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2019.1589608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Over the last several years human sperm quality was found to be significantly reduced and the role environmental contaminants play in this phenomenon remain to be determined. Mercury (Hg) is one of the most widespread contaminants; however the correlation between metal exposure and adverse consequences on human and animals fertility are not completely established. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of direct exposure to inorganic Hg on male gametes using spermatozoa (bovine sperm) which characteristically resemble human sperm. Sperm were divided and incubated for 0.5, 1 or 2 h at low levels of Hg: i) Control: without exposure; ii) Hg8 nM: mercury chloride (HgCl2) at 8 nM and iii) Hg8 μM: HgCl2 at 8 μM. Sperm kinetics, morphology, sperm membrane integrity, and in vitro fertilization were assessed. In addition the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation and total antioxidant capacity were measured. Hg exposure for 2 h impaired sperm morphology and membrane integrity as well as kinetic parameters including curvilinear velocity and straight-line velocity, which are needed for fertilization as evidenced by the reduced fertilization rate in 8 μM Hg-treated gametes. Hg enhanced oxidative stress in male sperm as reflected by elevated levels of ROS and lipid peroxidation and decreased antioxidant capacity. Data demonstrated that low levels of Hg when incubated with spermatozoa are sufficient to increase oxidative stress, adversely affect sperm quality parameters, subsequently impairing sperm fertility capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniele Missio
- b Graduate Program in Animal Science , Universidade Federal do Pampa , Uruguaiana , Brazil
| | | | - Dalton Valentim Vassallo
- c Departments of Physiological Sciences , Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo and School of Medicine of Santa Casa de Misericórdia , Vitória , Brazil
| | - Franck Maciel Peçanha
- a Graduate Program in Biochemistry , Universidade Federal do Pampa , Uruguaiana , Brazil
| | - Fabio Gallas Leivas
- b Graduate Program in Animal Science , Universidade Federal do Pampa , Uruguaiana , Brazil
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26
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Henriques MC, Loureiro S, Fardilha M, Herdeiro MT. Exposure to mercury and human reproductive health: A systematic review. Reprod Toxicol 2019; 85:93-103. [PMID: 30831212 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2019.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidences from human and animal studies suggest that reproductive function may be affected by mercury. The aim of this review was to explore the mercury influence on human fertility. METHODS A systematic search was made in PubMED for papers published between 1975-2017, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. RESULTS Increased mercury levels were associated with infertility or subfertility status. Further, infertile subjects with unexplained infertility showed higher levels of mercury in hair, blood and urine than fertile ones. Mercury exposure induced sperm DNA damage and abnormal sperm morphology and motility. Additionally, mercury levels were related with higher incidence of menstrual and hormonal disorders and increased rates of adverse reproductive outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Our review showed that mercury negatively impacts human reproduction, affecting the reproductive and endocrine systems in both male and female. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the mercury-associated decline on fertility remains unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magda Carvalho Henriques
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine - iBiMED, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Susana Loureiro
- Department of Biology & Centro de Estudos do Ambiente e do MAR (CESAM), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Margarida Fardilha
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine - iBiMED, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Herdeiro
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine - iBiMED, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
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27
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Zhang W, Jiang X, Zhao S, Zheng X, Lan J, Wang H, Ng TB. A polysaccharide-peptide with mercury clearance activity from dried fruiting bodies of maitake mushroom Grifola frondosa. Sci Rep 2018; 8:17630. [PMID: 30514871 PMCID: PMC6279823 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-35945-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Mercury is considered to be “a global pollutant” and raises concern worldwide. Once mercury enters the body, it will be distributed all over the body but will accumulate in the brain, kidney and liver. To date, no substance originating from edible fungi capable of adsorbing mercury has been reported. We found that the mushroom Grifola frondosa exhibited mercury adsorption capacity. A polysaccharide-peptide (GFPP), displaying the unique N-terminal amino acid sequence of APPGMHQKQQ and 7 partial sequences with high reliability obtained by LC-MS/MS, was isolated by hot-water extraction of its fruiting bodies followed by ion exchange chromatography and gel filtration chromatography. Two rat models were employed to determine the dose and the duration of HgCl2 treatment (given by acute administration or continuous treatment) to test if G. frondosa could promote mercury elimination. For rats subjected to acute treatment with HgCl2, both GFPP and G. frondosa fruiting bodies (GFFF) could accelerate the decline of blood mercury level, which fell precipitously by 50% on the second day. GFPP and GFFF also promoted elimination of the burden of mercury in the liver and kidneys. For rats receiving continuous HgCl2 treatment, G. frondosa prevented the progressive increase of blood mercury level, and kept the blood mercury level within a relatively stable range.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Zhang
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100193, China.,State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology and Department of Microbiology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xuezhen Jiang
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology and Department of Microbiology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Shuang Zhao
- Institute of Plant and Environment Protection, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, 100097, China
| | - Xiaojie Zheng
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology and Department of Microbiology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jin Lan
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100193, China.
| | - Hexiang Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology and Department of Microbiology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
| | - Tzi Bun Ng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China.
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28
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Martinez CS, Peçanha FM, Brum DS, Santos FW, Franco JL, Zemolin APP, Anselmo-Franci JA, Junior FB, Alonso MJ, Salaices M, Vassallo DV, Leivas FG, Wiggers GA. Reproductive dysfunction after mercury exposure at low levels: evidence for a role of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) 1 and GPx4 in male rats. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 29:1803-1812. [PMID: 27755963 DOI: 10.1071/rd16310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Mercury is a ubiquitous environmental pollutant and mercury contamination and toxicity are serious hazards to human health. Some studies have shown that mercury impairs male reproductive function, but less is known about its effects following exposure at low doses and the possible mechanisms underlying its toxicity. Herein we show that exposure of rats to mercury chloride for 30 days (first dose 4.6µgkg-1, subsequent doses 0.07µgkg-1day-1) resulted in mean (±s.e.m.) blood mercury concentrations of 6.8±0.3ngmL-1, similar to that found in human blood after occupational exposure or released from removal of amalgam fillings. Even at these low concentrations, mercury was deposited in reproductive organs (testis, epididymis and prostate), impaired sperm membrane integrity, reduced the number of mature spermatozoa and, in the testes, promoted disorganisation, empty spaces and loss of germinal epithelium. Mercury increased levels of reactive oxygen species and the expression of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) 1 and GPx4. These results suggest that the toxic effects of mercury on the male reproductive system are due to its accumulation in reproductive organs and that the glutathione system is its potential target. The data also suggest, for the first time, a possible role of the selenoproteins GPx1 and GPx4 in the reproductive toxicity of mercury chloride.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline S Martinez
- Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry, Postgraduate Program in Animal Science and Postgraduate Program in Biological Science, Universidade Federal do Pampa, BR 472 - Km 592 -118, 97500-970 Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Franck M Peçanha
- Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry, Postgraduate Program in Animal Science and Postgraduate Program in Biological Science, Universidade Federal do Pampa, BR 472 - Km 592 -118, 97500-970 Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Daniela S Brum
- Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry, Postgraduate Program in Animal Science and Postgraduate Program in Biological Science, Universidade Federal do Pampa, BR 472 - Km 592 -118, 97500-970 Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Francielli W Santos
- Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry, Postgraduate Program in Animal Science and Postgraduate Program in Biological Science, Universidade Federal do Pampa, BR 472 - Km 592 -118, 97500-970 Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Jeferson L Franco
- Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry, Postgraduate Program in Animal Science and Postgraduate Program in Biological Science, Universidade Federal do Pampa, BR 472 - Km 592 -118, 97500-970 Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula P Zemolin
- Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry, Postgraduate Program in Animal Science and Postgraduate Program in Biological Science, Universidade Federal do Pampa, BR 472 - Km 592 -118, 97500-970 Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Janete A Anselmo-Franci
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. do Café s/n, 14040904, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernando B Junior
- Department of Clinical Analyses, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. do Café s/n, 14049-903, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - María J Alonso
- Department of Biochemistry, Physiology and Molecular Genetics, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Avda. Atenas s/n, 28922, Alcorcón, Spain
| | - Mercedes Salaices
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Arzobispo Morcillo 4, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Dalton V Vassallo
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos 1468, 29040-090, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Fábio G Leivas
- Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry, Postgraduate Program in Animal Science and Postgraduate Program in Biological Science, Universidade Federal do Pampa, BR 472 - Km 592 -118, 97500-970 Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Giulia A Wiggers
- Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry, Postgraduate Program in Animal Science and Postgraduate Program in Biological Science, Universidade Federal do Pampa, BR 472 - Km 592 -118, 97500-970 Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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29
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Narváez DM, Groot H, Diaz SM, Palma RM, Muñoz N, Cros MP, Hernández-Vargas H. Oxidative stress and repetitive element methylation changes in artisanal gold miners occupationally exposed to mercury. Heliyon 2017; 3:e00400. [PMID: 28948237 PMCID: PMC5602780 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2017.e00400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Revised: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) exposure is a public health concern due to its persistence in the environment and its high toxicity. Such toxicity has been associated with the generation of oxidative stress in occupationally exposed subjects, such as artisanal gold miners. In this study, we characterize occupational exposure to Hg by measuring blood, urine and hair levels, and investigate oxidative stress and DNA methylation associated with gold mining. To do this, samples from 53 miners and 36 controls were assessed. We show higher levels of oxidative stress marker 8-OHdG in the miners. Differences in LINE1 and Alu(Yb8) DNA methylation between gold miners and control group are present in peripheral blood leukocytes. LINE1 methylation is positively correlated with 8-OHdG levels, while XRCC1 and LINE1 methylation are positively correlated with Hg levels. These results suggest an effect of Hg on oxidative stress and DNA methylation in gold miners that may have an impact on miners' health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana M. Narváez
- Human Genetics Laboratory. Universidad de los Andes. Bogotá, Colombia
- Instituto Nacional de Salud (INS). Bogotá, Colombia
- Epigenetics Group. International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Lyon, France
| | - Helena Groot
- Human Genetics Laboratory. Universidad de los Andes. Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | | | | | - Marie-Pierre Cros
- Epigenetics Group. International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Lyon, France
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30
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Martinez CS, Escobar AG, Uranga-Ocio JA, Peçanha FM, Vassallo DV, Exley C, Miguel M, Wiggers GA. Aluminum exposure for 60days at human dietary levels impairs spermatogenesis and sperm quality in rats. Reprod Toxicol 2017; 73:128-141. [PMID: 28823769 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2017.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Revised: 08/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Concerns about environmental aluminum (Al) and reproductive health have been raised. We investigated the effects of Al exposure at a human relevant dietary level and a high level exposure to Al. Experiment 1 (Lower level) rats were treated orally for 60 days: a) controls - ultrapure water; b) aluminum at 1.5mg/kg bw/day and c) aluminum at 8.3mg/kg bw/day. Experiment 2 (High level) rats were treated for 42 days: a) controls - ultrapure water; b) aluminum at 100mg/kg bw/day. Al decreased sperm count, daily sperm production, sperm motility, normal morphological sperm, impaired testis histology; increased oxidative stress in reproductive organs and inflammation in testis. Our study shows the specific presence of Al in the germinative cells and, that low concentrations of Al in testes (3.35μg/g) are sufficient to impair spermatogenesis and sperm quality. Our findings provide a better understanding of the reproductive health risk of Al.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Silveira Martinez
- Graduate Program in Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Pampa, BR 472, Km 592, PO Box 118, Zip Code: 97500-970, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | - Alyne Gourlart Escobar
- Graduate Program in Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Pampa, BR 472, Km 592, PO Box 118, Zip Code: 97500-970, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | | | - Franck Maciel Peçanha
- Graduate Program in Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Pampa, BR 472, Km 592, PO Box 118, Zip Code: 97500-970, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Dalton Valentim Vassallo
- Departments of Physiological Sciences, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo and School of Medicine of Santa Casa de Misericórdia (EMESCAM), Av. Marechal Campos 1468, Zip Code: 29040-090, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Christopher Exley
- The Birchall Centre, Lennard-Jones Laboratories, Keele University, Staffordshire, ST5 5BG, UK
| | - Marta Miguel
- Bioactivity and Food Analysis Laboratory, Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación, Nicolás Cabrera, 9, Campus Universitario de Cantoblanco, Madrid, Spain
| | - Giulia Alessandra Wiggers
- Graduate Program in Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Pampa, BR 472, Km 592, PO Box 118, Zip Code: 97500-970, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
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31
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Rizzetti DA, Torres JGD, Escobar AG, da Silva TM, Moraes PZ, Hernanz R, Peçanha FM, Castro MM, Vassallo DV, Salaices M, Alonso MJ, Wiggers GA. The cessation of the long-term exposure to low doses of mercury ameliorates the increase in systolic blood pressure and vascular damage in rats. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2017; 155:182-192. [PMID: 28222365 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2017.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2016] [Revised: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to verify whether a prolonged exposure to low-level mercury promotes haemodynamic disorders and studied the reversibility of this vascular damage. Rats were divided into seven groups: three control groups received saline solution (im) for 30, 60 or 90 days; two groups received HgCl2 (im, first dose, 4.6μg/kg, subsequent doses 0.07μg/kg/day) for 30 or 60 days; two groups received HgCl2 for 30 or 60 days (im, same doses) followed by a 30-day washout period. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was measured, along with analysis of vascular response to acetylcholine (ACh) and phenylephrine (Phe) in the absence and presence of endothelium, a nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor, an NADPH oxidase inhibitor, superoxide dismutase, a non-selective cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor and an AT1 receptor blocker. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and antioxidant power were measured in plasma. HgCl2 exposure for 30 and 60 days: a) reduced the endothelium-dependent relaxation; b) increased the Phe-induced contraction and the contribution of ROS, COX-derived vasoconstrictor prostanoids and angiotensin II acting on AT1 receptors to this response while the NO participation was reduced; c) increased the oxidative stress in plasma; d) increased the SBP only after 60 days of exposure. After the cessation of HgCl2 exposure, SBP, endothelium-dependent relaxation, Phe-induced contraction and the oxidative stress were normalised, despite the persistence of the increased COX-derived prostanoids. These results demonstrated that long-term HgCl2 exposure increases SBP as a consequence of vascular dysfunction; however, after HgCl2 removal from the environment the vascular function ameliorates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alyne Goulart Escobar
- Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Taiz Martins da Silva
- Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil; Department of Basic Health Sciences, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain; Bioactivity and Food Analysis Laboratory, Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación, Madrid, Spain; Department of Physiological Sciences, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, ES, Brazil; Department of Pharmacology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paola Zambelli Moraes
- Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Raquel Hernanz
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain
| | - Franck Maciel Peçanha
- Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Marta Miguel Castro
- Bioactivity and Food Analysis Laboratory, Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación, Madrid, Spain
| | - Dalton Valentim Vassallo
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Mercedes Salaices
- Department of Pharmacology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria Jesús Alonso
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain
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32
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Branco V, Caito S, Farina M, Teixeira da Rocha J, Aschner M, Carvalho C. Biomarkers of mercury toxicity: Past, present, and future trends. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2017; 20:119-154. [PMID: 28379072 PMCID: PMC6317349 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2017.1289834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) toxicity continues to represent a global health concern. Given that human populations are mostly exposed to low chronic levels of mercurial compounds (methylmercury through fish, mercury vapor from dental amalgams, and ethylmercury from vaccines), the need for more sensitive and refined tools to assess the effects and/or susceptibility to adverse metal-mediated health risks remains. Traditional biomarkers, such as hair or blood Hg levels, are practical and provide a reliable measure of exposure, but given intra-population variability, it is difficult to establish accurate cause-effect relationships. It is therefore important to identify and validate biomarkers that are predictive of early adverse effects prior to adverse health outcomes becoming irreversible. This review describes the predominant biomarkers used by toxicologists and epidemiologists to evaluate exposure, effect and susceptibility to Hg compounds, weighing on their advantages and disadvantages. Most importantly, and in light of recent findings on the molecular mechanisms underlying Hg-mediated toxicity, potential novel biomarkers that might be predictive of toxic effect are presented, and the applicability of these parameters in risk assessment is examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasco Branco
- a Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia , Universidade de Lisboa , Lisboa , Portugal
| | - Sam Caito
- b Department of Molecular Pharmacology , Albert Einstein College of Medicine , Bronx , New York , USA
| | - Marcelo Farina
- c Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas , Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina , Florianópolis , Brazil
| | - João Teixeira da Rocha
- d Departamento Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular , Universidade Federal de Santa Maria , Santa Maria , RS , Brazil
| | - Michael Aschner
- b Department of Molecular Pharmacology , Albert Einstein College of Medicine , Bronx , New York , USA
| | - Cristina Carvalho
- a Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia , Universidade de Lisboa , Lisboa , Portugal
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Barbosa F. Toxicology of metals and metalloids: Promising issues for future studies in environmental health and toxicology. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2017; 80:137-144. [PMID: 28277036 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2016.1259475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The function and behavior of chemical elements in ecosystems and in human health probably comprise one of the most studied issues and a theme of great interest and fascination in science. Hot topics are emerging on an annual basis in this field. Bearing this in mind, some promising themes to explore in the field of metals and metalloids in the environment and in toxicology are highlighted and briefly discussed herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Barbosa
- a Laboratório de Toxicologia e Essencialidade de Metais, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto , Universidade de São Paulo , Ribeirão Preto , SP , Brazil
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34
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Rizzetti DA, Martinez CS, Escobar AG, da Silva TM, Uranga-Ocio JA, Peçanha FM, Vassallo DV, Castro MM, Wiggers GA. Egg white-derived peptides prevent male reproductive dysfunction induced by mercury in rats. Food Chem Toxicol 2016; 100:253-264. [PMID: 28043836 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2016.12.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Revised: 12/28/2016] [Accepted: 12/29/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress in known to contribute to the male reproductive dysfunction induced by mercury (Hg). Our study tested the hypothesis that the egg white hydrolysate (EWH), a potent antioxidant in vitro, is able to prevent the effects of prolonged Hg exposure on male reproductive system in rats. For this, rats were treated for 60 days with: a) Untreated - saline solution (i.m.); b) Hydrolysate - EWH (1 g/kg/day, gavage); c) Mercury - HgCl2 (1st dose 4.6 μg/kg, subsequent doses 0.07 μg/kg/day, i.m.); d) Hydrolysate-Mercury. At the end of the treatment, sperm motility, count and morphological studies were performed; Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) levels, lipid peroxidation, antioxidant capacity, histological and immunohistochemical assays on testis and epididymis were also carried out. As results, HgCl2-treatment decreased sperm number, increased sperm transit time in epididymis and impaired sperm morphology. However, these harmful effects were prevented by EWH. HgCl2-treatment also increased ROS levels, lipid peroxidation and antioxidant capacity in testis and epididymis as well as promoted testicular inflammation and histological changes in epididymis. EWH improved histological and immunohistochemical alterations, probably due to its antioxidant property. In conclusion, the EWH could represent a powerful natural alternative to protect the male reproductive system against Hg-induced sperm toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danize Aparecida Rizzetti
- Cardiovascular Physiology Laboratory, Universidade Federal do Pampa, BR 472, Km 592, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Caroline Silveira Martinez
- Cardiovascular Physiology Laboratory, Universidade Federal do Pampa, BR 472, Km 592, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Alyne Goulart Escobar
- Cardiovascular Physiology Laboratory, Universidade Federal do Pampa, BR 472, Km 592, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Taiz Martins da Silva
- Cardiovascular Physiology Laboratory, Universidade Federal do Pampa, BR 472, Km 592, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | | | - Franck Maciel Peçanha
- Cardiovascular Physiology Laboratory, Universidade Federal do Pampa, BR 472, Km 592, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Dalton Valentim Vassallo
- Cardiac Electromechanical and Vascular Reactivity Laboratory, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Marechal Campos, 1468, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Marta Miguel Castro
- Bioactivity and Food Analysis Laboratory, Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación, Nicolás Cabrera, 9, Campus Universitario de Cantoblanco, Madrid, Spain
| | - Giulia Alessandra Wiggers
- Cardiovascular Physiology Laboratory, Universidade Federal do Pampa, BR 472, Km 592, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
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Jenardhanan P, Panneerselvam M, Mathur PP. Effect of environmental contaminants on spermatogenesis. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2016; 59:126-140. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2016.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Revised: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Ounnas F, Privé F, Lamarche F, Salen P, Favier-Hininger I, Marchand P, Le Bizec B, Venisseau A, Batandier C, Fontaine E, de Lorgeril M, Demeilliers C. A relevant exposure to a food matrix contaminated environmentally by polychlorinated biphenyls induces liver and brain disruption in rats. CHEMOSPHERE 2016; 161:80-88. [PMID: 27421104 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.06.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2016] [Revised: 06/02/2016] [Accepted: 06/09/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are ubiquitous environmental contaminants present in dietary fats. Most studies evaluating PCB effects have been conducted with a single compound or a mixture of PCBs given as a single acute dose. The purpose of this study was to evaluate in vivo PCB toxicity in a realistic model of exposure: a low daily dose of PCBs (twice the tolerable daily intake (TDI)), chronically administered (8 weeks) to rats in contaminated goat milk. Liver and brain PCB toxicities were investigated by evaluating oxidative stress status and mitochondrial function. PCB toxicity in the liver was also estimated by transaminase enzymatic activity. This study shows that even at low doses, chronic PCB exposure resulted in a statistically significant reduction of mitochondrial function in liver and brain. In the liver, oxygen consumption in the condition of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production (state 3) decreased by 22-29% (p < 0.01), according to the respiratory substrates. In the brain, respiratory chain complexes II and III were reduced by 24% and 39%, respectively (p < 0.005). The exposed rats presented higher lipid peroxidation status (+20%, p < 0.05) and transaminase activity (+30%, p < 0.05) in the blood. Thus, our study showed that exposure of rats to a daily realistic dose of PCBs (twice the TDI in a food complex mixture of environmental origin) resulted in multiple disruptions in the liver and brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fayçal Ounnas
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Laboratory of Fundamental and Applied Bioenergetics, Environmental and Systems Biology, Inserm, U1055, BP 53, 38041 Grenoble Cedex 9, France; TIMC-IMAG CNRS UMR 5525, Laboratoire PRETA, Cœur et Nutrition, Université Joseph Fourier, Domaine de la Merci, 38706 La Tronche Cedex, France.
| | - Florence Privé
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Laboratory of Fundamental and Applied Bioenergetics, Environmental and Systems Biology, Inserm, U1055, BP 53, 38041 Grenoble Cedex 9, France; TIMC-IMAG CNRS UMR 5525, Laboratoire PRETA, Cœur et Nutrition, Université Joseph Fourier, Domaine de la Merci, 38706 La Tronche Cedex, France.
| | - Fréderic Lamarche
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Laboratory of Fundamental and Applied Bioenergetics, Environmental and Systems Biology, Inserm, U1055, BP 53, 38041 Grenoble Cedex 9, France.
| | - Patricia Salen
- TIMC-IMAG CNRS UMR 5525, Laboratoire PRETA, Cœur et Nutrition, Université Joseph Fourier, Domaine de la Merci, 38706 La Tronche Cedex, France.
| | - Isabelle Favier-Hininger
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Laboratory of Fundamental and Applied Bioenergetics, Environmental and Systems Biology, Inserm, U1055, BP 53, 38041 Grenoble Cedex 9, France.
| | - Philippe Marchand
- Laboratoire d'Etude des Résidus et Contaminants dans les Aliments, LUNAM Université, Oniris, USC 1329, Route de Gachet, CS 50707, 44307 Nantes Cedex 3, France.
| | - Bruno Le Bizec
- Laboratoire d'Etude des Résidus et Contaminants dans les Aliments, LUNAM Université, Oniris, USC 1329, Route de Gachet, CS 50707, 44307 Nantes Cedex 3, France.
| | - Anais Venisseau
- Laboratoire d'Etude des Résidus et Contaminants dans les Aliments, LUNAM Université, Oniris, USC 1329, Route de Gachet, CS 50707, 44307 Nantes Cedex 3, France.
| | - Cécile Batandier
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Laboratory of Fundamental and Applied Bioenergetics, Environmental and Systems Biology, Inserm, U1055, BP 53, 38041 Grenoble Cedex 9, France.
| | - Eric Fontaine
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Laboratory of Fundamental and Applied Bioenergetics, Environmental and Systems Biology, Inserm, U1055, BP 53, 38041 Grenoble Cedex 9, France; Grenoble University Hospital, CS 10217, 38043 Grenoble Cedex 9, France.
| | - Michel de Lorgeril
- TIMC-IMAG CNRS UMR 5525, Laboratoire PRETA, Cœur et Nutrition, Université Joseph Fourier, Domaine de la Merci, 38706 La Tronche Cedex, France.
| | - Christine Demeilliers
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Laboratory of Fundamental and Applied Bioenergetics, Environmental and Systems Biology, Inserm, U1055, BP 53, 38041 Grenoble Cedex 9, France.
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Mortazavi S, Mortazavi G, Paknahad M. Dental metal-induced innate reactivity in keratinocytes. Toxicol In Vitro 2016; 33:180-1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2016.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Souza ACF, Marchesi SC, Ferraz RP, Lima GDDA, de Oliveira JA, Machado-Neves M. Effects of sodium arsenate and arsenite on male reproductive functions in Wistar rats. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2016; 79:274-286. [PMID: 27029432 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2016.1150926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Arsenic (As), in the form of trivalent arsenite or pentavalent arsenate, is a ubiquitous toxic compound naturally occurring in the environment. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of two different forms of inorganic As on reproductive parameters following oral exposure. Adult Wistar male rats were exposed to sodium arsenite or arsenate at concentrations of 0.01 mg/L or 10 mg/L for 56 d in drinking water. Sodium arsenite at both concentrations and sodium arsenate at 10 mg/L produced reduction in daily sperm production, in number of spermatids in the testis, and in sperm in the epididymal caput/corpus regions. Changes in epididymal morphometry were variable and region specific. Total and progressive sperm motility and sperm morphology did not differ markedly between controls and animals exposed to As. The body and reproductive organs weights, as well as testosterone concentration, remained unchanged among all groups. In conclusion, As exposure in drinking water over 56 d produced damage in male reproductive functions in adult rats, suggesting that fertility problems might occur. Therefore, additional studies need to be undertaken to investigate potential mechanisms underlying sodium arsenite- and arsenate-induced disturbances in fertility and reproductive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah Cozzer Marchesi
- a Department of General Biology , Federal University of Viçosa (UFV) , Viçosa , Minas Gerais , Brazil
| | - Rafael Penha Ferraz
- a Department of General Biology , Federal University of Viçosa (UFV) , Viçosa , Minas Gerais , Brazil
| | | | - Juraci Alves de Oliveira
- a Department of General Biology , Federal University of Viçosa (UFV) , Viçosa , Minas Gerais , Brazil
| | - Mariana Machado-Neves
- a Department of General Biology , Federal University of Viçosa (UFV) , Viçosa , Minas Gerais , Brazil
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Seo JS, Yoo DY, Jung HY, Kim DW, Hwang IK, Lee JY, Moon SM. Effects of Dendropanax morbifera Léveille extracts on cadmium and mercury secretion as well as oxidative capacity: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Biomed Rep 2016; 4:623-627. [PMID: 27123258 DOI: 10.3892/br.2016.623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In this randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled clinical trial, the effects of Dendropanax morbifera (D. morbifera) Léveille on heavy metal (cadmium and mercury) excretion as well as on lipid peroxidation and Cu, Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD1) activity were investigated. For this study, tablets containing placebo or 300 mg of the leaf extract from D. morbifera Léveille were used. A total of 60 eligible healthy subjects were enrolled in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. The differences in cadmium, mercury, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and SOD1 activity were measured in the serum 60 days after treatment with placebo or D. morbifera Léveille extracts. No significant differences between baseline characteristics and biochemical values were identified in subjects in the placebo and D. morbifera Léveille groups. Serum levels of cadmium, mercury and MDA decreased following consumption of D. morbifera Léveille extracts; however, no significant differences were identified. In addition, female, but not male, subjects who consumed D. morbifera Léveille extracts showed a significant increase in SOD1 activity. This result suggests that chronic consumption of D. morbifera Léveille extract can help to facilitate excretion of cadmium and mercury from serum and increase the antioxidant capacity in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Sam Seo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Dongtan Sacred Heart Hospital, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Hwaseong 445-170, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae Young Yoo
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-742, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo Young Jung
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-742, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Woo Kim
- Central Research Center, Egreen Co., Ltd., Seongnam 463-862, Republic of Korea
| | - In Koo Hwang
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-742, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Young Lee
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 134-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Myung Moon
- Department of Neurosurgery, Dongtan Sacred Heart Hospital, College of Medicine, Hallym University, Hwaseong 445-170, Republic of Korea
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de Oliveira Souza VC, de Marco KC, Laure HJ, Rosa JC, Barbosa F. A brain proteome profile in rats exposed to methylmercury or thimerosal (ethylmercury). JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2016; 79:502-512. [PMID: 27294299 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2016.1182003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to organomercurials has been associated with harmful effects on the central nervous system (CNS). However, the mechanisms underlying organomercurial-mediated neurotoxic effects need to be elucidated. Exposure to toxic elements may promote cellular modifications such as alterations in protein synthesis in an attempt to protect tissues and organs from damage. In this context, the use of a "proteomic profile" is an important tool to identify potential early biomarkers or targets indicative of neurotoxicity. The aim of this study was to investigate potential modifications in rat cerebral cell proteome following exposure to methylmercury (MeHg) or ethylmercury (EtHg). For MeHg exposure, animals were administered by gavage daily 140 µg/kg/d of Hg (as MeHg) for 60 d and sacrificed 24 h after the last treatment. For EtHg exposure, 800 µg/kg/d of Hg (as EtHg) was given intramuscularly (im) in a single dose and rats were sacrificed after 4 h. Control groups received saline either by gavage or im. After extraction of proteins from whole brain samples and separation by two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE), 26 differentially expressed proteins were identified from exposed animals by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF/TOF). Both MeHg and EtHg exposure induced an overexpression of calbindin, a protein that acts as a neuroprotective agent by (1) adjusting the concentration of Ca(2+) within cells and preventing neurodegenerative diseases and (2) decreasing expression of glutamine synthetase, a crucial protein involved in regulation of glutamate concentration in synaptic cleft. In contrast, expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD), a protein involved in antioxidant defense, was elevated in brain of MeHg-exposed animals. Taken together, our data provide new valuable information on the possible molecular mechanisms associated with MeHg- and EtHg-mediated toxicity in cerebral tissue. These observed protein alterations may be considered as biomarkers candidates for biological monitoring of organomercurial poisoning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Cristina de Oliveira Souza
- a Department of Clinical, Bromatological and Toxicological Analysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto , University of São Paulo , São Paulo , Brazil
| | - Kátia Cristina de Marco
- a Department of Clinical, Bromatological and Toxicological Analysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto , University of São Paulo , São Paulo , Brazil
| | - Hélen Julie Laure
- b Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto , University of São Paulo , São Paulo , Brazil
| | - José Cesar Rosa
- b Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto , University of São Paulo , São Paulo , Brazil
| | - Fernando Barbosa
- a Department of Clinical, Bromatological and Toxicological Analysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto , University of São Paulo , São Paulo , Brazil
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Olsvik PA, Ulvund JB, Teien HC, Urke HA, Lie KK, Kristensen T. Transcriptional effects of metal-rich acid drainage water from the abandoned Løkken Mine on Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) smolt. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2016; 79:612-632. [PMID: 27484142 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2016.1171992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Runoff of metals represents one of the major environmental challenges related to historic and ongoing mining activity. In this study, transcriptomics (direct RNA sequencing [RNA-seq] and reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction [RT-qPCR]) was used to predict toxicity of metal-rich acid mine drainage (AMD) water collected in the abandoned copper (Cu) mine called Løkken Mine on Atlantic salmon liver and kidney, the main target organs of Cu-induced toxicity in fish. Smolts were exposed to control and diluted AMD water, which contains a mixture of metals but is especially enriched with Cu, at 4 concentrations in freshwater (FW) for 96 h, and then were transferred to and kept in seawater (SW) for another 24 h. Significant accumulation of Cu was observed in the gills, but not liver and kidney tissues, after 96 h of exposure. Short-term exposure to metal-rich ADM (high exposure group) significantly upregulated 3201 transcripts and downregulated 3782 transcripts in liver. The strongest effect attributed to exposure was observed on the KEGG pathway "protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum," followed by "steroid biosynthesis." Gene ontology (GO) analysis suggested that exposure predominantly affected "protein folding," possibly by disrupting disulfide bonds as a result of endoplasmic-reticulum-generated stress, and "sterol biosynthetic processes." Transfer to uncontaminated SW for 24 h amended the transcription of several genes, suggesting a transient effect of treatment on some mechanisms. In conclusion, the data show that trace metals in AMD from abandoned pyrite mines might disturb molecular mechanisms linked to protein folding in Atlantic salmon smolt endoplasmic reticulum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pål A Olsvik
- a National Institute of Nutrition and Seafood Research , Bergen , Norway
| | - John B Ulvund
- b Norwegian Institute of Water Research , Trondheim , Norway
| | - Hans C Teien
- c Department of Environmental Sciences , Norwegian University of Life Sciences , Ås , Norway
| | - Henning A Urke
- b Norwegian Institute of Water Research , Trondheim , Norway
- d INAQ AS , Trondheim , Norway
| | - Kai K Lie
- a National Institute of Nutrition and Seafood Research , Bergen , Norway
| | - Torstein Kristensen
- b Norwegian Institute of Water Research , Trondheim , Norway
- e Faculty of Biosciences and Aquaculture , University of Nordland , Bodø , Norway
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Golbabaei F, Ebrahimi A, Shirkhanloo H, Koohpaei A, Faghihi-Zarandi A. Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (SWCNTs), as a Novel Sorbent for Determination of Mercury in Air. Glob J Health Sci 2015; 8:273-80. [PMID: 26925918 PMCID: PMC4965678 DOI: 10.5539/gjhs.v8n7p273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Based on the noticeable toxicity and numerous application of mercury in industries, removal of mercury vapor through sorbent is an important environmental challenge. PURPOSE OF THE STUDY Due to their highly porous and hollow structure, large specific surface area, light mass density and strong interaction, Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (SWCNTs) sorbent were selected for this investigation. METHODS In this study, instrumental conditions, method procedure and different effective parameters such as adsorption efficiency, desorption capacity, time, temperature and repeatability as well as retention time of adsorbed mercury were studied and optimized. Also, mercury vapor was determined by cold vapor atomic absorption spectrometry (CV-AAS).Obtained data were analyzed by Independent T- test, Multivariate linear regression and one way-ANOVA finally. RESULTS For 80 mg nanotubes, working range of SWCNT were achieved 0.02-0.7 mg with linear range (R2=0.994).Our data revealed that maximum absorption capacity was 0.5 mg g-1 as well as limit of detection (LOD) for studied sorbent was 0.006 mg. Also, optimum time and temperature were reported, 10 min and 250 °C respectively. Retention time of mercury on CNTs for three weeks was over 90%. Results of repeated trials indicated that the CNTs had long life, so that after 30 cycles of experiments, efficiency was determined without performance loss. CONCLUSION Results showed that carbon nanotubes have high potential for efficient extraction of mercury from air and can be used for occupational and environmental purposes. The study of adsorption properties of CNTs is recommended.
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Kim MJ, Kwack SJ, Lim SK, Kim YJ, Roh TH, Choi SM, Kim HS, Lee BM. Toxicological evaluation of isopropylparaben and isobutylparaben mixture in Sprague–Dawley rats following 28 days of dermal exposure. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2015; 73:544-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2015.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2014] [Revised: 07/28/2015] [Accepted: 08/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Kwack SJ, Lee BM. Comparative Cytotoxicity and Sperm Motility Using a Computer-Aided Sperm Analysis System (CASA) for Isomers of Phthalic Acid, a Common Final Metabolite of Phthalates. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2015; 78:1038-1050. [PMID: 26252616 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2015.1067503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The general population is exposed to phthalates through consumer products, diet, and medical devices. Phthalic acid (PA) is a common final metabolite of phthalates, and its isomers include isophthalic acid (IPA), terephthalic acid (TPA), and phthalaldehyde (o-phthalic acid, OPA). The purpose of this study was to investigate whether PA and PA isomers exert reproductive toxicity, including altered sperm movement. In vitro cell viability assays were comparatively performed using Sertoli and liver cell lines. In animal experiments, PA or PA isomers (10, 100, or 1000 mg/kg) were administered orally to Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, and semen samples were analyzed by computer-aided sperm analysis (CASA). PA treatment produced a significant effect on curvilinear velocity (VCL), straight-line velocity (VSL), mean velocity or average path velocity (VAP), amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH), and frequency of head displacement or beat cross-frequency (BCF), whereas IPA, TPA, and OPA induced no marked effects. In vitro cell viability assays showed that mouse normal testis cells (TM4) and human testis cancer cells (NTERA 2 cl. D1) were more sensitive to PA and OPA than mouse liver normal cells (NCTC clone 1469) and human fetal liver cells (FL 62891). Our study suggests that PA and PA isomers specifically produced significant in vitro and in vivo reproductive toxicity, particularly sperm toxicity and testis cell cytotoxicity. Of the isomers examined, PA appeared to be the most toxic and may serve as a surrogate biomarker for reproductive toxicity following mixed exposure to phthalates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Jun Kwack
- a Department of Biochemistry and Health Science , College of Natural Sciences, Changwon National University , Changwon , Gyeongnam , South Korea
| | - Byung-Mu Lee
- b Division of Toxicology , College of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University , Suwon , Gyeonggi-Do , Korea
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Altunkaynak ME, Akgül N, Yahyazadeh A, Altunkaynak BZ, Türkmen AP, Akgül HM, Aksak S, Ünal B. A stereological and histopathological study of the effects of exposure of male rat testes to mercury vapor. Biotech Histochem 2015; 90:529-34. [PMID: 25968145 DOI: 10.3109/10520295.2015.1024739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mercury is ubiquitous in the environment; it is an occupational pollutant and a potential toxicant. We investigated the effects of exposure of rat testes to mercury vapor (Hg(0)). Twelve male rats were divided into two groups of six: the rats of the Hg(0) group were exposed to mercury (1 mg/m(3)/day) in a chamber for six weeks; the control group rats were housed under the same conditions without exposure to Hg(0). After the experimental period, the testes were removed, sections of testis were evaluated histopathologically after hematoxylin and eosin staining, and stereologically using the Cavalieri principle and optical fractionator methods. We found significant decreases in the total volume of testis, diameters of seminiferous tubules and total volume of seminiferous tubules. Significant decreases were detected in the numbers of Sertoli cells, spermatogonia, spermatocytes and spermatids of the Hg(0) group compared to the control group. In the Hg(0) exposed group, spermatogenic cells were degenerated and seminiferous tubules were atrophied.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Altunkaynak
- a Department of Histology and Embryology , Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayıs University , Samsun , Turkey
| | - N Akgül
- b Department of Restorative Dentistry , Faculty of Dentistry, Atatürk University , Erzurum , Turkey
| | - A Yahyazadeh
- a Department of Histology and Embryology , Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayıs University , Samsun , Turkey
| | - B Z Altunkaynak
- a Department of Histology and Embryology , Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayıs University , Samsun , Turkey
| | - A P Türkmen
- a Department of Histology and Embryology , Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayıs University , Samsun , Turkey
| | - H M Akgül
- c Department of Oral Diagnosis and Radiology , Faculty of Dentistry, Atatürk University , Erzurum , Turkey
| | - S Aksak
- d Department of Histology and Embryology , Faculty of Medicine, Atatürk University , Erzurum , Turkey
| | - B Ünal
- d Department of Histology and Embryology , Faculty of Medicine, Atatürk University , Erzurum , Turkey
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Martinez CS, Torres JGD, Peçanha FM, Anselmo-Franci JA, Vassallo DV, Salaices M, Alonso MJ, Wiggers GA. 60-Day chronic exposure to low concentrations of HgCl2 impairs sperm quality: hormonal imbalance and oxidative stress as potential routes for reproductive dysfunction in rats. PLoS One 2014; 9:e111202. [PMID: 25368988 PMCID: PMC4219708 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0111202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2014] [Accepted: 09/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Mercury is a toxic and bio-accumulative heavy metal of global concern. While good deals of research have been conducted on the toxic effects of mercury, little is known about the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of male reproductive dysfunction induced by mercury. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the effects and underlying mechanisms of chronic mercury exposure at low levels on male reproductive system of rats. Three-month-old male Wistar rats were divided into two groups and treated for 60 days with saline (i.m., Control) and HgCl2 (i.m. 1st dose: 4.6 µg/kg, subsequent doses 0.07 µg/kg/day). We analyzed sperm parameters, hormonal levels and biomarkers of oxidative stress in testis, epididymis, prostate and vas deferens. Mercury treatment decreased daily sperm production, count and motility and increased head and tail morphologic abnormalities. Moreover, mercury treatment decreased luteinizing hormone levels, increased lipid peroxidation on testis and decreased antioxidant enzymes activities (superoxide dismutase and catalase) on reproductive organs. Our data demonstrate that 60-day chronic exposure to low concentrations of HgCl2 impairs sperm quality and promotes hormonal imbalance. The raised oxidative stress seems to be a potential mechanism involved on male reproductive toxicity by mercury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline S. Martinez
- Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - João Guilherme D. Torres
- Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Franck M. Peçanha
- Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Janete A. Anselmo-Franci
- Department of Morphology, Stomatology and Physiology, School of Dentistry, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Dalton V. Vassallo
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Mercedes Salaices
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - María J. Alonso
- Department of Biochemistry, Physiology and Molecular Genetics, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Spain
| | - Giulia A. Wiggers
- Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Pampa, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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