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Wang X, Hao W. Reproductive and developmental toxicity of plant growth regulators in humans and animals. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 196:105640. [PMID: 37945238 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2023.105640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Plant growth regulators (PGRs) are currently one of the widely used pesticides, as being considered to have relatively low toxicity compared with other pesticides. However, widespread use may lead to overexposure from multiple sources. Exposure to PGRs is associated with different toxicity that affects many organs in our body, such as the toxicity to testis, ovaries, liver, kidneys and brain. In addition, some PGRs are considered potential endocrine disrupting chemicals. Evidence exists for development and reproductive toxicity associated with prenatal and postnatal exposure in both animals and humans. PGRs can affect the synthesis and secretion of sex hormones, destroy the structure and function of the reproductive system, and harm the growth and development of offspring, which may be related to germ cell cycle disorders, apoptosis and oxidative stress. This review summaries the reproductive and developmental toxicity data available about PGRs in mammals. In the future, conducting comprehensive epidemiological studies will be crucial for assessing the reproductive and developmental toxicity resulting from a mixture of various PGRs, with a particular emphasis on understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxia Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Weidong Hao
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing 100191, China.
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2
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A low-cost smartphone fluorescence microscope for research, life science education, and STEM outreach. Sci Rep 2023; 13:2722. [PMID: 36894527 PMCID: PMC9998573 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29182-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Much of our understanding of cell and tissue development, structure, and function stems from fluorescence microscopy. The acquisition of colorful and glowing images engages and excites users ranging from seasoned microscopists to STEM students. Fluorescence microscopes range in cost from several thousand to several hundred thousand US dollars. Therefore, the use of fluorescence microscopy is typically limited to well-funded institutions and biotechnology companies, research core facilities, and medical laboratories, but is financially impractical at many universities and colleges, primary and secondary schools (K-12), and in science outreach settings. In this study, we developed and characterized components that when used in combination with a smartphone or tablet, perform fluorescence microscopy at a cost of less than $50 US dollars per unit. We re-purposed recreational LED flashlights and theater stage lighting filters to enable viewing of green and red fluorophores including EGFP, DsRed, mRFP, and mCherry on a simple-to-build frame made of wood and plexiglass. These devices, which we refer to as glowscopes, were capable of 10 µm resolution, imaging fluorescence in live specimens, and were compatible with all smartphone and tablet models we tested. In comparison to scientific-grade fluorescence microscopes, glowscopes may have limitations to sensitivity needed to detect dim fluorescence and the inability to resolve subcellular structures. We demonstrate capability of viewing fluorescence within zebrafish embryos, including heart rate, rhythmicity, and regional anatomy of the central nervous system. Due to the low cost of individual glowscope units, we anticipate this device can help to equip K-12, undergraduate, and science outreach classrooms with fleets of fluorescence microscopes that can engage students with hands-on learning activities.
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3
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Acetaminophen Disrupts the Development of Pharyngeal Arch-Derived Cartilage and Muscle in Zebrafish. J Dev Biol 2022; 10:jdb10030030. [PMID: 35893125 PMCID: PMC9326545 DOI: 10.3390/jdb10030030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Acetaminophen is a common analgesic, but its potential effects on early embryonic development are not well understood. Previous studies using zebrafish (Danio rerio) have described the effects of acetaminophen on liver development and physiology, and a few have described gross physiological and morphological defects. Using a high but non-embryonic lethal dose of acetaminophen, we probed for defects in zebrafish craniofacial cartilage development. Strikingly, acetaminophen treatment caused severe craniofacial cartilage defects, primarily affecting both the presence and morphology of pharyngeal arch-derived cartilages of the viscerocranium. Delaying acetaminophen treatment restored developing cartilages in an order correlated with their corresponding pharyngeal arches, suggesting that acetaminophen may target pharyngeal arch development. Craniofacial cartilages are derived from cranial neural crest cells; however, many neural crest cells were still seen along their expected migration paths, and most remaining cartilage precursors expressed the neural crest markers sox9a and sox10, then eventually col2a1 (type II collagen). Therefore, the defects are not primarily due to an early breakdown of neural crest or cartilage differentiation. Instead, apoptosis is increased around the developing pharyngeal arches prior to chondrogenesis, further suggesting that acetaminophen may target pharyngeal arch development. Many craniofacial muscles, which develop in close proximity to the affected cartilages, were also absent in treated larvae. Taken together, these results suggest that high amounts of acetaminophen can disrupt multiple aspects of craniofacial development in zebrafish.
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Guo D, Luo L, Kong Y, Kuang Z, Wen S, Zhao M, Zhang W, Fan J. Enantioselective neurotoxicity and oxidative stress effects of paclobutrazol in zebrafish (Danio rerio). PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 185:105136. [PMID: 35772839 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2022.105136] [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: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Paclobutrazol is a widely used chiral plant growth regulator and its enantioselective toxicity in aquatic organisms is less explored till now. Herein, the enantioselective neurotoxicity of paclobutrazol mediated by oxidative stress in zebrafish were investigated. The oxidative stress parameters and neurotoxic biomarkers changed significantly in each exposure group, and paclobutrazol showed enantioselective toxicity in zebrafish. Firstly, (2R, 3R)-paclobutrazol exhibited a stronger oxidative stress in zebrafish than (2S, 3S)-enantiomer (P < 0.05). Then, activities of acetylcholinesterase, calcineurin, and total nitric oxide synthase in (2R, 3R)-paclobutrazol treatments were 0.61-0.89, 1.24-1.53, and 1.21-1.35-fold stronger (P < 0.05) than those in (2S, 3S)-enantiomer treatments, respectively. Next, the content variations of four neurotransmitters in zebrafish exposed to (2R, 3R)-paclobutrazol were significantly larger than those in (2S, 3S)-enantiomer treatments (P < 0.05). Moreover, (2R, 3R)-paclobutrazol had stronger binding with the receptors than (2S, 3S)-enantiomer through molecular docking. The integrated biomarker response values further demonstrated that (2R, 3R)-paclobutrazol showed stronger toxicity to zebrafish than (2S, 3S)-enantiomer. Furthermore, the neurotoxicity of paclobutrazol can be interpreted as the mediating effect of oxidative stress in zebrafish through correlation analysis, and an adverse outcome pathway for the nervous system in zebrafish induced by paclobutrazol was proposed. This work will greatly extend our understanding on the enantioselective toxic effects of paclobutrazol in aquatic organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Guo
- School of Chemistry, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Biomedicine, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Lulu Luo
- School of Chemistry, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Biomedicine, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yuan Kong
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Zhiyang Kuang
- School of Chemistry, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Biomedicine, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Siyi Wen
- School of Chemistry, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Biomedicine, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Meirong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Weiguang Zhang
- School of Chemistry, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Biomedicine, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; GDMPA Key Laboratory for Process Control and Quality Evaluation of Chiral Pharmaceuticals, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Jun Fan
- School of Chemistry, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Biomedicine, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; GDMPA Key Laboratory for Process Control and Quality Evaluation of Chiral Pharmaceuticals, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
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5
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Huang T, Zhao Y, He J, Cheng H, Martyniuk CJ. Endocrine disruption by azole fungicides in fish: A review of the evidence. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 822:153412. [PMID: 35090921 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.153412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Azole fungicides are widely used chemicals in agriculture and medicine. Their antifungal activity involves inhibition of steroid biosynthesis via inhibition of several cytochrome p450 enzymes. Evidence is accumulating in fish species to suggest azole fungicides perturb multiple hormone signaling pathways. The objective of this review was to comprehensively review data for azole-mediated impacts on the teleost endocrine system. We emphasize aspects of azole-induced endocrine disruption in several fish species, with special focus on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG), hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Histopathological, physiological, and molecular data suggest azole fungicides at environmentally relevant concentrations and above are endocrine disruptors in fish. Endocrine disruption has been well documented for some azoles (e.g., difenconazole, fadrozole, ketoconazole, tebuconazole, triadimefon), but there are little data for others (e.g., cyproconazole, expoxiconazole, imidazole, metoconazole, nocodazole) in fish, revealing a knowledge gap in our understanding of azole toxicity. Based upon literature, computational analyses of transcriptome responses revealed progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation, insulin signaling pathway, adrenergic signaling, and metabolism of angiotensinogen may be processes disrupted by azoles. However, hormonal regulation of the sympathetic nervous system and the cardiovascular system in response to azole exposure has yet to be investigated in fish. Recommendations for studies moving forward include focus on non-steroid endocrine pathways, mechanisms of neuroendocrine disruption, and transgenerational effects of azoles on fish. This critical review identifies knowledge gaps and future directions for environmental studies focused on the effects of azoles in aquatic species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Huang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Urban Hydrological Cycle and Sponge City Technology, College of Water Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, PR China; Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Yuanhui Zhao
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin 130117, PR China
| | - Jia He
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Urban Hydrological Cycle and Sponge City Technology, College of Water Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, PR China.
| | - Hongguang Cheng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Urban Hydrological Cycle and Sponge City Technology, College of Water Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, PR China.
| | - Christopher J Martyniuk
- Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; University of Florida Genetics Institute, Interdisciplinary Program in Biomedical Sciences Neuroscience, USA.
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6
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Yue K, Liu Z, Pi Z, Li H, Wang Y, Song F, Liu Z. Network Pharmacology Combined with Metabolomics Approach to Investigate the Toxicity Mechanism of Paclobutrazol. Chem Res Toxicol 2022; 35:626-635. [PMID: 35298131 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.1c00404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Paclobutrazol (PBZ) is a commonly used plant growth regulator (PGR) with good antibacterial activity. It has widespread applications in agricultural production. However, there is limited research reported on the potential risks of human health resulting from PBZ residues. In this study, using Sprague-Dawley rats, we carried out a systematic study on the hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity of PBZ in different doses (0.2, 0.5, and 1.0 g/kg). The metabolic profiles and network pharmacology were combined to construct a PBZ-endogenous substances-gene-hepatorenal diseases network to elucidate the underlying mechanism of PBZ's hepatorenal toxicity. At first, metabolomics analysis was done to investigate the metabolites and the related metabolic pathways associated with PBZ. Secondly, the network pharmacology approach was used in further exploration of the toxic targets. Additionally, molecular docking was carried out to investigate the interactions between PBZ and potential targets. The results indicated that PBZ showed obvious toxicity towards the liver and kidney of rats. The metabolomics analysis showed that PBZ mainly affected 4 metabolic pathways, including tryptophan metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, linoleic acid metabolism, and purine metabolism. Network pharmacology and molecular docking revealed that CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2E1, MAOA, PLA2G2A, PTGS1, and XDH were critical targets for PBZ hepatorenal toxicity. This preliminary study revealed PBZ's hepatorenal toxicity and provided a theoretical basis for the rational and safe use of PBZ. Furthermore, it provided possible intervention targets for further research on how to avoid or reduce the damage caused by pesticides to the human body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Yue
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Zhiqiang Liu
- National Center of Mass Spectrometry in Changchun, Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chemistry and Mass Spectrometry Jilin Province, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, China
| | - Zifeng Pi
- National Center of Mass Spectrometry in Changchun, Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chemistry and Mass Spectrometry Jilin Province, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, China.,College of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin 130117, China
| | - Hanlin Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Yingping Wang
- State Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Ginseng Breeding and Application, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Fengrui Song
- National Center of Mass Spectrometry in Changchun, Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chemistry and Mass Spectrometry Jilin Province, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, China
| | - Zhongying Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
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7
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Huang T, Jiang H, Zhao Y, He J, Cheng H, Martyniuk CJ. A comprehensive review of 1,2,4-triazole fungicide toxicity in zebrafish (Danio rerio): A mitochondrial and metabolic perspective. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 809:151177. [PMID: 34699814 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In this critical review, we synthesize data from peer-reviewed literature reporting on triazole fungicide exposures in the zebrafish model. Based on their mode of action in plants (potent inhibitors of ergosterol synthesis), we focused attention on mechanisms related to cellular, lipid, and steroid metabolism. Evidence from several studies reveals that zebrafish exposed to triazoles present with impaired mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and oxidative stress, as well as dysregulation of lipid metabolism. Such metabolic disruptions are expected to underscore developmental delays, deformity, and aberrant locomotor activity and behaviors often observed following exposure. We begin by summarizing physiological and behavioral effects observed with triazole fungicide exposure in zebrafish. We then discuss mechanisms that may underlie adverse apical effects, focusing on mitochondrial bioenergetics and metabolism. Using computational approaches, we also identify novel biomarkers of triazole fungicide exposure. Extracting and analyzing data contained in the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD) revealed that transcriptional signatures responsive to different triazoles are related to metabolism of lipids and lipoproteins, biological oxidations, and fatty acid, triacylglycerol, and ketone body metabolism among other processes. Pathway and sub-network analysis identified several transcripts that are responsive in organisms exposed to triazole fungicides, several of which include lipid-related genes. Knowledge gaps and recommendations for future investigations include; (1) targeted metabolomics for metabolites in glycolysis, Krebs cycle, and the electron transport chain; (2) additional studies conducted at environmentally relevant concentrations to characterize the potential for endocrine disruption, given that studies point to altered cholesterol (precursor for steroid hormones), as well as altered estrogen receptor alpha and thyroid hormone expression; (3) studies into the potential role for lipid peroxidation and oxidation of lipid biomolecules as a mechanism of triazole-induced toxicity, given the strong evidence for oxidative damage in zebrafish following exposure to triazole fungicides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Huang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Urban Hydrological Cycle and Sponge City Technology, College of Water Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, UF Genetics Institute, Interdisciplinary Program in Biomedical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Haibo Jiang
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin 130117, China
| | - Yuanhui Zhao
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Vegetation Restoration, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin 130117, China
| | - Jia He
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Urban Hydrological Cycle and Sponge City Technology, College of Water Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China.
| | - Hongguang Cheng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Urban Hydrological Cycle and Sponge City Technology, College of Water Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China.
| | - Christopher J Martyniuk
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, UF Genetics Institute, Interdisciplinary Program in Biomedical Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA.
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8
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Huang W, Wu T, Au WW, Wu K. Impact of environmental chemicals on craniofacial skeletal development: Insights from investigations using zebrafish embryos. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 286:117541. [PMID: 34118758 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.117541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Craniofacial skeletal anomalies are among the most common structural birth defects around the world. Various studies using human populations and experimental animals have shown that genetic and environmental factors play significant roles in the causation and progression of these anomalies. Environmental factors, such as teratogens and toxin mixtures, induce craniofacial anomalies are gaining heightened attention. Among experimental investigations, the use of the zebrafish (Danio rerio) has been increasing. A major reason for the increased use is that the zebrafish boast a simple craniofacial structure, and facial morphogenesis is readily observed due to external fertilization and transparent embryo, making it a valuable platform to screen and identify environmental factors involved in the etiology of craniofacial skeletal malformation. This review provides an update on harmful effects from exposure to environmental chemicals, involving metallic elements, nanoparticles, persistent organic pollutants, pesticides and pharmaceutical formulations on craniofacial skeletal development in zebrafish embryos. The collected data provide a better understanding for induction of craniofacial skeletal anomalies and for development of better prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlong Huang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Tianjie Wu
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Shantou Central Hospital, Affiliated Shantou Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - William W Au
- University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Techonology, 540142, Tirgu Mures, Romania
| | - Kusheng Wu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China.
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9
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Luo Y, Lu S, Sun X, Gao Y, Sun G, Yang M, Sun X. Paclobutrazol exposure induces apoptosis and impairs autophagy in hepatocytes via the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2021; 35:e22874. [PMID: 34351037 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Paclobutrazol (PBZ), one of the most widely used plant growth retardants in vegetables, fruits, and traditional Chinese medicine ingredients, exposes people to adverse events. In this study, HepaRG hepatocytes were cultured and exposed to PBZ (360 μM) in vitro to determine its mechanism. Results showed that PBZ exposure inhibited cell viability in a time- and dose-dependent manner and increased the oxidative stress and apoptosis ratio in HepaRG cells. These data revealed that the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) has an important role in PBZ-induced cell apoptosis, which is mediated by impaired autophagy and blocked by the AMPK activator. In conclusion, PBZ exposure induces apoptosis and impairs autophagy in hepatocytes via the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Luo
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Shan Lu
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Sun
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ye Gao
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Guibo Sun
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Meihua Yang
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaobo Sun
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Beijing, China
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10
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Huang W, Wang X, Zheng S, Wu R, Liu C, Wu K. Effect of bisphenol A on craniofacial cartilage development in zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos: A morphological study. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2021; 212:111991. [PMID: 33548570 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2021.111991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Revised: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine-disrupting chemical, is present in everyday-used consumables and common household products. Although the side effects of BPA have been sufficiently explored, little is known the effects of environmentally relevant low levels of BPA on chondrogenesis in skeletal development. Here we used a morphological approach to investigate whether exposure to BPA (0, 0.0038, 0.05, 0.1, 1.0 μM) could affect craniofacial cartilage development of zebrafish embryo. Furthermore, we sought to determine receptor-mediated BPA induced chondrogenesis toxicity by co-exposing developing embryos to BPA and various inhibitors. Low-dose BPA affected heart rate and induced body and head elongation of larvae. Quantitative morphometric and histopathological analysis revealed that BPA exposure changed the angle and length of craniofacial cartilage elements and disrupted chondrocytes. BPA induced pharyngeal cartilage defects via multiple cellular pathways, including estrogen receptor, androgen receptor, and estrogen-related receptors. Our findings demonstrate that BPA alters the normal development of cartilage and craniofacial structures in zebrafish embryos. Furthermore, in this study we find multiple cellular pathways mediating the effects of BPA-induced craniofacial chondrogenesis toxicity. Further experiments will allow for establishing a connection between BPA and increased risk of congenital malformation of the facial cranium in BPA-exposed populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlong Huang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Shukai Zheng
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Ruotong Wu
- School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, Fujian, China
| | - Caixia Liu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Kusheng Wu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China.
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Waterborne Exposure of Paclobutrazol at Environmental Relevant Concentration Induce Locomotion Hyperactivity in Larvae and Anxiolytic Exploratory Behavior in Adult Zebrafish. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17134632. [PMID: 32605096 PMCID: PMC7369995 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17134632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The available arable land is unable to fulfill the food production need of rapidly the exponentially growing human population in the world. Pesticides are one of those different measures taken to meet this demand. As a plant growth regulator to block gibberellin, paclobutrazol (PBZ) is used excessively throughout the world to promote early fruit setting, and to increase seed setting which might be harmful because PBZ is a very stable compound; therefore, it can bioaccumulate into the food chain of an ecosystem. In the present study, we discovered unexpected effects of PBZ on zebrafish larvae and adult behaviors by challenging them with low dose exposure. Zebrafish larvae aged 4 days post-fertilization (dpf) were exposed for 24 h at 10 µg/L (0.01 ppm) and 100 µg/L (0.1 ppm) of PBZ, respectively, and adults were incubated at 100 µg/L (0.1 ppm) and 1000 µg/L (1 ppm) concentrations of PBZ, respectively, for fourteen days. After incubation, the locomotor activity, burst, and rotation movement for the larvae; and multiple behavioral tests such as novel tank exploration, mirror biting, shoaling, predator avoidance, and social interaction for adult zebrafish were evaluated. Brain tissues of the adult fish were dissected and subjected to biochemical analyses of the antioxidant response, oxidative stress, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and neurotransmitter levels. Zebrafish larvae exposed to PBZ exhibited locomotion hyperactivity with a high burst movement and swimming pattern. In adult zebrafish, PBZ resulted in anxiolytic exploratory behavior, while no significant results were found in social interaction, shoal making, and predator avoidance behaviors. Interestingly, high dose PBZ exposure significantly compromised the innate aggressive behavior of the adult fish. Biochemical assays for oxidative stress, antioxidant response, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) showed significant reductions in their relative contents. In conclusion, for the first time, our behavior assays revealed that chronic PBZ exposure induced behavioral alterations in both larvae and the adult zebrafish. Because PBZ is a widely-used plant growth regulator, we suggest that it is necessary to conduct more thorough tests for its biosafety and bioaccumulation.
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Xu M, Yang F. Integrated gender-related effects of profenofos and paclobutrazol on neurotransmitters in mouse. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2020; 190:110085. [PMID: 31855789 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2019.110085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2019] [Revised: 12/07/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of paclobutrazol and profenofos on six neurotransmitters and their metabolites involving in cholinergic and non-cholinergic neurotransmission systems in mouse. The results revealed that profenofos decreased the levels of 5-hydroxyindole-3-acetic acid (5-HIAA) and normetanephrine (MNE), and increased the level of dopamine (DA) in the mice after four weeks of exposure. The turnovers of serotonergic neurotransmission system (5-HIAA/5-HT) and noradrenergic neurotransmission system (MNE/NE) showed a decline under exposure of profenofos. Exposure to paclobutrazol resulted in decreases of 5-HIAA and MNE in both sexes of mice, and of 5-HT and ACh in the females. Similar to profenofos, the turnovers of serotonergic neurotransmission system and noradrenergic neurotransmission system decreased in the mice exposed to paclobutrazol. The integrated biomarker response (IBR) was introduced to comprehensively evaluate the neurotoxic effects of the two pesticides through integration of the responses of neurotransmitters. The results of IBR indicated that the overall effect of neurotransmitters increased at the beginning of exposure and then decreased in the end. It was also found that the order of neurotoxic effect for the two pesticides is as: paclobutrazol > profenofos referred to their LD50. Furthermore, the effects on neurotransmitters are higher in the males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Xu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecosystem Health, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Fangxing Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecosystem Health, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
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Toxic Effects of Paclobutrazol on Developing Organs at Different Exposure Times in Zebrafish. TOXICS 2019; 7:toxics7040062. [PMID: 31817812 PMCID: PMC6958485 DOI: 10.3390/toxics7040062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
To enhance crop productivity and economic profit, farmers often use pesticides that modulate plant growth and prevent disease. However, contamination of ecosystems with agricultural pesticides may impair the health of resident biota. Paclobutrazol (PBZ), an aromatic-containing triazole, is widely applied to many crops in order to promote flowering and fruit setting, while also regulating plant growth and preventing fungus-related diseases. Due to its high mobility, high stability and potential for bioaccumulation, the risks of PBZ to the health of organisms and ecological systems have become a serious concern. In previous studies, we documented the toxicity of PBZ on developing heart, eyes, liver, pancreas and intestine of zebrafish. In this study, we sought to further understand the developmental stage-specific impacts of PBZ on digestive organs and other tissues. Zebrafish were exposed to PBZ beginning at different embryonic stages, and the toxic effects on organs were evaluated at 120 hpf (hours post-fertilization) by in situ hybridization staining with tissue-specific marker genes, such as liver, intestine and pancreas. Unsurprisingly, early-stage embryos exhibited higher sensitivity to PBZ-induced death and developmental hypoplasia of digestive organs. Interestingly, the developing liver and pancreas were more sensitive to PBZ than intestine when embryos were exposed at early stages, but these tissues showed lower sensitivity at later stages. Our delineation of the differential toxic effects of PBZ on developing organs at different exposure timings can serve as a powerful reference for further studies into the mechanisms of PBZ organ toxicity.
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Xu H, Liu X, Jia Y, Dong F, Xu J, Wu X, Yang Y, Zheng Y. Fipronil-induced toxic effects in zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae by using digital gene expression profiling. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 639:550-559. [PMID: 29800848 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.05.159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Revised: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/13/2018] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Fipronil residue has caused widespread concern around the world, especially after the recent "toxic eggs" event in seven European countries. To evaluate the effects of fipronil on vertebrates, zebrafish larvae were used as an animal model to examine the lethal effect, developmental phenotypes at high doses, and possible mechanisms of toxicity by employing digital gene expression (DGE) profiling at environmentally relevant doses. The results of acute toxicity test indicated that treatment with fipronil from 75 h post-fertilization (hpf) led to the death of larvae with a 96-h LC50 value of 459 μg/L, as well as abnormal development including bent spine and shortened body length. Besides, we obtained high-quality-sequencing DGE profilings at fipronil concentrations of 0.5, 5, and 50 μg/L, respectively. The results revealed that 44 differentially expressed genes, 10 GO terms, and 3 KEGG pathways were overlapped among the three concentrations. MIDN, one of the 44 differentially expressed genes, showed dose-dependent responses at the transcriptional level, indicating that it was possibly a potential biomarker to reflect fipronil toxicity in zebrafish. Furthermore, we presumed that the changing transcriptional level of AP-1 family was possibly a reason for bent spine and shortened body length in larvae exposed to fipronil. Concurrently, altered abundance of transcripts of the ELOVL family in a key step of fatty acid elongation could possibly lead to the accumulation of long-chain fatty acids. Collectively, our results suggested that exposure to fipronil caused lethal and developmental toxicity in zebrafish larvae, and demonstrated the need for a comprehensive understanding of the potential mechanisms of fipronil toxicity due to fipronil's frequent presence in the environment and its potential threat to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanqing Xu
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Xingang Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Yang Jia
- Graduate School, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Fengshou Dong
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Jun Xu
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Xiaohu Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Yongquan Zheng
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, PR China.
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Wang WD, Hsu HJ, Li YF, Wu CY. Retinoic Acid Protects and Rescues the Development of Zebrafish Embryonic Retinal Photoreceptor Cells from Exposure to Paclobutrazol. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18010130. [PMID: 28085063 PMCID: PMC5297764 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18010130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2016] [Revised: 12/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Paclobutrazol (PBZ) is a widely used fungicide that shows toxicity to aquatic embryos, probably through rain-wash. Here, we specifically focus on its toxic effect on eye development in zebrafish, as well as the role of retinoic acid (RA), a metabolite of vitamin A that controls proliferation and differentiation of retinal photoreceptor cells, in this toxicity. Embryos were exposed to PBZ with or without RA from 2 to 72 h post-fertilization (hpf), and PBZ-treated embryos (2–72 hpf) were exposed to RA for additional hours until 120 hpf. Eye size and histology were examined. Expression levels of gnat1 (rod photoreceptor marker), gnat2 (cone photoreceptor marker), aldehyde dehydrogenases (encoding key enzymes for RA synthesis), and phospho-histone H3 (an M-phase marker) in the eyes of control and treated embryos were examined. PBZ exposure dramatically reduces photoreceptor proliferation, thus resulting in a thinning of the photoreceptor cell layer and leading to a small eye. Co-treatment of PBZ with RA, or post-treatment of PBZ-treated embryos with RA, partially rescues photoreceptor cells, revealed by expression levels of marker proteins and by retinal cell proliferation. PBZ has strong embryonic toxicity to retinal photoreceptors, probably via suppressing the production of RA, with effects including impaired retinal cell division.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Der Wang
- Department of Bio-Agricultural Sciences, National Chiayi University, Chiayi City 60004, Taiwan.
| | - Hwei-Jan Hsu
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei City 11529, Taiwan.
| | - Yi-Fang Li
- Department of Bio-Agricultural Sciences, National Chiayi University, Chiayi City 60004, Taiwan.
| | - Chang-Yi Wu
- Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung City 80424, Taiwan.
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Sarmah S, Marrs JA. Zebrafish as a Vertebrate Model System to Evaluate Effects of Environmental Toxicants on Cardiac Development and Function. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17122123. [PMID: 27999267 PMCID: PMC5187923 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17122123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2016] [Revised: 12/04/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Environmental pollution is a serious problem of the modern world that possesses a major threat to public health. Exposure to environmental pollutants during embryonic development is particularly risky. Although many pollutants have been verified as potential toxicants, there are new chemicals in the environment that need assessment. Heart development is an extremely sensitive process, which can be affected by environmentally toxic molecule exposure during embryonic development. Congenital heart defects are the most common life-threatening global health problems, and the etiology is mostly unknown. The zebrafish has emerged as an invaluable model to examine substance toxicity on vertebrate development, particularly on cardiac development. The zebrafish offers numerous advantages for toxicology research not found in other model systems. Many laboratories have used the zebrafish to study the effects of widespread chemicals in the environment on heart development, including pesticides, nanoparticles, and various organic pollutants. Here, we review the uses of the zebrafish in examining effects of exposure to external molecules during embryonic development in causing cardiac defects, including chemicals ubiquitous in the environment and illicit drugs. Known or potential mechanisms of toxicity and how zebrafish research can be used to provide mechanistic understanding of cardiac defects are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swapnalee Sarmah
- Department of Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
| | - James A Marrs
- Department of Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
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Wang WD, Chen GT, Hsu HJ, Wu CY. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor 2 mediates the toxicity of Paclobutrazol on the digestive system of zebrafish embryos. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2015; 159:13-22. [PMID: 25500619 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2014.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2014] [Revised: 11/18/2014] [Accepted: 11/20/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Paclobutrazol (PBZ), a trazole-containing fungicide and plant growth retardant, has been widely used for over 30 years to regulate plant growth and promote early fruit setting. Long-term usage of PBZ in agriculture and natural environments has resulted in residual PBZ in the soil and water. Chronic exposure to waterborne PBZ can cause various physiological effects in fish, including hepatic steatosis, antioxidant activity, and disruption of spermatogenesis. We have previously shown that PBZ also affects the rates of zebrafish embryonic survival and hatching, and causes developmental failure of the head skeleton and eyes; here, we further show that PBZ has embryonic toxic effects on digestive organs of zebrafish, and describe the underlying mechanisms. PBZ treatment of embryos resulted in dose-dependent morphological and functional abnormalities of the digestive organs. Real-time RT-PCR and in situ hybridization were used to show that PBZ strongly induces cyp1a1 expression in the digestive system, and slightly induces ahr2 expression in zebrafish embryos. Knockdown of ahr2 with morpholino oligonucleotides prevents PBZ toxicity. Thus, the toxic effect of PBZ on digestive organs is mediated by AhR2, as was previously reported for retene and TCDD. These findings have implications for understanding the potential toxicity of PBZ during embryogenesis, and thus the potential impact of fungicides on public health and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Der Wang
- Department of Bio-Agricultural Sciences, National Chiayi University, Chiayi City, Taiwan.
| | - Guan-Ting Chen
- Department of Bio-Agricultural Sciences, National Chiayi University, Chiayi City, Taiwan
| | - Hwei-Jan Hsu
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Chang-Yi Wu
- Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
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