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Dou Y, Zhang M, Zhang H, Zhang C, Feng L, Hu J, Gao Y, Yuan XZ, Zhao Y, Zhao H, Chen ZJ. Lactating exposure to microplastics at the dose of infants ingested during artificial feeding induced reproductive toxicity in female mice and their offspring. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 949:174972. [PMID: 39053555 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174972] [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: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) pollution poses a global environmental challenge with significant concerns regarding its potential impact on human health. Toxicological investigations have revealed multi-system impairments caused by MPs in various organisms. However, the specific reproductive hazards in human contexts remain elusive, and understanding the transgenerational reproductive toxicity of MPs remains limited. This study delves into the reproductive toxicity resulting from lactational exposure to polystyrene MPs (PS-MPs) in female mice, extending the inquiry to assess the reproductive effects on their offspring bred by rigorous natural mating. The MPs dosage corresponds to the detected concentration in infant formula prepared using plastic bottles. By systematically evaluating the reproductive phenotypes of F0 female mice from birth to adulthood, we found that female mice exposed to PS-MPs exhibited delayed puberty, disturbed estrous cyclicity, diminished fertility, elevated testosterone, abnormal follicle development, disrupted ovarian steroidogenesis, and ovarian inflammation. Importantly, the observed inheritable reproductive toxicity manifested with gender specificity, showcasing more pronounced abnormalities in male offspring. Specifically, reproductive disorders did not manifest in female offspring; however, a significant decrease in sperm count and viability was observed in PS-MPs-exposed F1 males. Testicular transcriptomics analysis of F1 males significantly enriched pathways associated with reproductive system development and epigenetic modification, such as male germ cell proliferation, DNA methylation, and histone modification. In summary, real-life exposure to PS-MPs impaired the reproductive function of female mice and threateningly disrupted the spermatogenesis of their F1 male offspring, which raises serious concerns about inter- and trans-generational reproductive toxicities of MPs in mammals. These findings underscore the potential threats of MPs to human reproductive health, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and research in this critical area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunde Dou
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Mengge Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Honghui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China; Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, China; Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, China
| | - Changlong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Lijuan Feng
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jingmei Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Yuan Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Xian-Zheng Yuan
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Yueran Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Han Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China; Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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2
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Li Y, Chen L, Zhou N, Chen Y, Ling Z, Xiang P. Microplastics in the human body: A comprehensive review of exposure, distribution, migration mechanisms, and toxicity. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:174215. [PMID: 38914339 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174215] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are pervasive across ecosystems, presenting substantial risks to human health. Developing a comprehensive review of MPs is crucial due to the growing evidence of their widespread presence and potential harmful effects. Despite the growth in research, considerable uncertainties persist regarding their transport dynamics, prevalence, toxicological impacts, and the potential long-term health effects they may cause. This review thoroughly evaluates recent advancements in research on MPs and their implications for human health, including estimations of human exposure through ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact. It also quantifies the distribution and accumulation of MPs in various organs and tissues. The review discusses the mechanisms enabling MPs to cross biological barriers and the role of particle size in their translocation. To ensure methodological rigor, this review adheres to the PRISMA guidelines, explicitly detailing the literature search strategy, inclusion criteria, and the quality assessment of selected studies. The review concludes that MPs pose significant toxicological risks, identifies critical gaps in current knowledge, and recommends future research directions to elucidate the prolonged effects of MPs on human health. This work aims to offer a scientific framework for mitigating MP-related hazards and establishes a foundation for ongoing investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Li
- Institute of College of Art and Design, Rural Vitalization Research Center in the Wuling Mountain Area, Huaihua University, Huaihua 418000, China.
| | - Liping Chen
- Institute of College of Art and Design, Rural Vitalization Research Center in the Wuling Mountain Area, Huaihua University, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Nonglin Zhou
- College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Huaihua University, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Yuyuan Chen
- Institute of College of Art and Design, Rural Vitalization Research Center in the Wuling Mountain Area, Huaihua University, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Zhichen Ling
- Institute of College of Art and Design, Rural Vitalization Research Center in the Wuling Mountain Area, Huaihua University, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Ping Xiang
- Institute of Environmental Remediation and Human Health, School of Ecology and Environment, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming 650224, China.
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3
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Subramanian D, Ponnusamy Manogaran G, Dharmadurai D. A systematic review on the impact of micro-nanoplastics on human health: Potential modulation of epigenetic mechanisms and identification of biomarkers. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 363:142986. [PMID: 39094707 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142986] [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: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Epigenetic-mediated modifications, induced by adverse environmental conditions, significantly alter an organism's physiological mechanisms. Even after elimination of the stimulus, these epigenetic modifications can be inherited through mitosis, thereby triggering transgenerational epigenetics. Plastics, with their versatile properties, are indispensable in various aspects of daily life. However, due to mismanagement, plastics have become so ubiquitous in the environment that no ecosystem on Earth is free from micro-nanoplastics (MNPs). This situation has raised profound concerns regarding their potential impact on human health. Recently, both in vivo animal and in vitro human cellular models have shown the potential to identify the harmful effects of MNPs at the genome level. The emerging epigenetic impact of MNP exposure is characterized by short-term alterations in chromatin remodelling and miRNA modulation. However, to understand long-term epigenetic changes and potential transgenerational effects, substantial and more environmentally realistic exposure studies are needed. In the current review, the intricate epigenetic responses, including the NHL-2-EKL-1, NDK-1-KSR1/2, and WRT-3-ASP-2 cascades, wnt-signalling, and TGF- β signalling, established in model organisms such as C. elegans, mice, and human cell lines upon exposure to MNPs, were systematically examined. This comprehensive analysis aimed to predict human pathways by identifying human homologs using databases and algorithms. We are confident that various parallel miRNA pathways, specifically the KSR-ERK-MAPK pathway, FOXO-Insulin cascade, and GPX3-HIF-α in humans, may be influenced by MNP exposure. This influence may lead to disruptions in key metabolic and immune pathways, including glucose balance, apoptosis, cell proliferation, and angiogenesis. Therefore, we believe that these genes and pathways could serve as potential biomarkers for future studies. Additionally, this review emphasizes the origin, dispersion, and distribution of plastics, providing valuable insights into the complex relationship between plastics and human health while elaborating on the epigenetic impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darshini Subramanian
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Applied Sciences, REVA University, Bengaluru, 560064, Karnataka, India.
| | | | - Dhanasekaran Dharmadurai
- Department of Microbiology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, 620024, Tamil Nadu, India.
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4
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Anifowoshe AT, Mukherjee A, Ajisafe VA, Raichur AM, Nongthomba U. Synthesis and characterization of micro-sized polyisobutylene and evaluation of its toxicological effects on the development and homeostasis of zebrafish (Danio rerio). Sci Rep 2024; 14:20300. [PMID: 39217210 PMCID: PMC11365975 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-70757-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Rampant industrialization has led to widespread reliance on hydrocarbon polymers for various commercial applications. While these synthetic polymers, commonly known as plastics, degrade in slowly in the environments, the toxic effects of their micro-sized particles remain underexplored. In this study, we synthesized polyisobutylene (PIB) microparticles in the lab and evaluated their toxicity and accumulation in a zebrafish model. Pristine and fluorescent PIB-microplastics (MPs), with particle sizes ranging from 2 to 10 μm, were synthesized using the solvent evaporation method. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the stability of the suspensions. Zebrafish larvae exposed to various concentrations of PIB-MPs exhibited numerous morphological and molecular changes, including delayed hatching, impaired swimming behavior, increased reactive oxygen species levels, altered mRNA levels of genes encoding antioxidant proteins, and reduced survival rates. Dissections revealed PIB-MP accumulation in the guts of larvae and adult fish within 7-21 days, causing damage to the intestinal mucosa. These findings provide insights into how contaminants like PIB can induce pathophysiological defects in aquatic fauna and pose potential health hazards to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abass Toba Anifowoshe
- Department of Developmental Biology and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
- Cell Biology and Genetics Unit, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Amartya Mukherjee
- Department of Developmental Biology and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Victor A Ajisafe
- Department of Materials Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Ashok M Raichur
- Department of Materials Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Upendra Nongthomba
- Department of Developmental Biology and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India.
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5
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Hua X, Wang D. Transgenerational response of germline histone acetyltransferases and deacetylases to nanoplastics at predicted environmental doses in Caenorhabditis elegans. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 952:175903. [PMID: 39218082 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics could cause toxic effects on organism and their offsprings; however, how this transgenerational toxicity is formed remains largely unclear. We here examined potential involvement of germline histone acetylation regulation in modulating transgenerational toxicity of polyetyrene nanoparticle (PS-NP) in Caenorhabditis elegans. At parental generation (P0-G), PS-NP (1-100 μg/L) decreased expressions of germline cbp-1 and taf-1 encoding histone acetyltransferases, as well as germline expressions of sir-2.1 and hda-3 encoding histone deacetylase. Decrease in these 4 germline genes were also observed in the offspring of PS-NP (1-100 μg/L) exposed nematodes. Germline RNAi of cbp-1, taf-1, sir-2.1 and hda-3 resulted in more severe transgenerational PS-NP toxicity on locomotion and brood size. Meanwhile, in PS-NP exposed nematodes, germline RNAi of cbp-1, taf-1, sir-2.1 and hda-3 increased expression of genes encoding insulin, FGF, Wnt, and/or Notch ligands and expressions of their receptor genes in the offspring. Susceptibility to transgenerational PS-NP toxicity in cbp-1(RNAi), taf-1(RNAi), sir-2.1(RNAi), and hda-3 (RNAi) was inhibited by RNAi of these germline ligands genes. Moreover, histone deacetylase inhibition served as molecular initiating event (MIE) leading to transgenerational toxicity in epigenetic adverse outcome pathway (AOP) for nanoplastics. Our data provided evidence that germline histone acetylation regulation functioned as an important mechanism for transgenerational toxicity of nanoplastics at predicted environmental doses (PEDs) by affecting secreted ligands in organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Hua
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Dayong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China; Shenzhen Ruipuxun Academy for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, Shenzhen, China.
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Yalameha B, Rezabakhsh A, Rahbarghazi R, Khaki-Khatibi F, Nourazarian A. Plastic particle impacts on the cardiovascular system and angiogenesis potential. Mol Cell Biochem 2024:10.1007/s11010-024-05081-2. [PMID: 39126457 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-024-05081-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
The extensive application of plastics in different sectors such as packaging, building, textiles, consumer products, and several industries has increased in recent years. Emerging data have confirmed that plastic wastes and segregates are problematic issues in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The decomposition of plastic particles (PPs) leads to the release of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) into the surrounding environment and entry of these particles will be problematic in unicellular and multicellular creatures. It was suggested that PPs can easily cross all biological barriers and reach different organs, especially the cardiovascular system, with the potential to modulate several molecular pathways. It is postulated that the direct interaction of PPs with cellular and subcellular components induces genotoxicity and cytotoxicity within the cardiovascular system. Meanwhile, being inert carriers, PPs can intensify the toxicity of other contaminants inside the cardiovascular system. Here, in this review article, several underlying mechanisms related to PP toxicity in the cardiovascular system were discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Banafsheh Yalameha
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, 51666-14733, Iran
| | - Aysa Rezabakhsh
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Rahbarghazi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, 51666-14733, Iran.
| | - Fatemeh Khaki-Khatibi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, 51666-14733, Iran.
| | - Alireza Nourazarian
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Khoy University of Medical Sciences, Khoy, Iran
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7
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Li H, Liu H, Bi L, Liu Y, Jin L, Peng R. Immunotoxicity of microplastics in fish. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2024; 150:109619. [PMID: 38735599 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2024.109619] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Plastic waste degrades slowly in aquatic environments, transforming into microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs), which are subsequently ingested by fish and other aquatic organisms, causing both physical blockages and chemical toxicity. The fish immune system serves as a crucial defense against viruses and pollutants present in water. It is imperative to comprehend the detrimental effects of MPs on the fish immune system and conduct further research on immunological assessments. In this paper, the immune response and immunotoxicity of MPs and its combination with environmental pollutants on fish were reviewed. MPs not only inflict physical harm on the natural defense barriers like fish gills and vital immune organs such as the liver and intestinal tract but also penetrate cells, disrupting intracellular signaling pathways, altering the levels of immune cytokines and gene expression, perturbing immune homeostasis, and ultimately compromising specific immunity. Initially, fish exposed to MPs recruit a significant number of macrophages and T cells while activating lysosomes. Over time, this exposure leads to apoptosis of immune cells, a decline in lysosomal degradation capacity, lysosomal activity, and complement levels. MPs possess a small specific surface area and can efficiently bind with heavy metals, organic pollutants, and viruses, enhancing immune responses. Hence, there is a need for comprehensive studies on the shape, size, additives released from MPs, along with their immunotoxic effects and mechanisms in conjunction with other pollutants and viruses. These studies aim to solidify existing knowledge and delineate future research directions concerning the immunotoxicity of MPs on fish, which has implications for human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiqi Li
- Affiliation: Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Huanpeng Liu
- Affiliation: Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Liuliu Bi
- Affiliation: Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Yinai Liu
- Affiliation: Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Libo Jin
- Affiliation: Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Renyi Peng
- Affiliation: Institute of Life Sciences & Biomedicine Collaborative Innovation Center of Zhejiang Province, College of Life and Environmental Science, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
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8
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Seggio M, Arcadio F, Radicchi E, Cennamo N, Zeni L, Bossi AM. Toward Nano- and Microplastic Sensors: Identification of Nano- and Microplastic Particles via Artificial Intelligence Combined with a Plasmonic Probe Functionalized with an Estrogen Receptor. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:18984-18994. [PMID: 38708270 PMCID: PMC11064004 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c09485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Nano- and microplastic particles are a global and emerging environmental issue that might pose potential threats to human health. The present work exploits artificial intelligence (AI) to identify nano- and microplastics in water by monitoring the interaction of the sample with a sensitive surface. An estrogen receptor (ER) grafted onto a gold surface, realized on a nonexpensive and easy-to-produce plastic optical fiber (POF) platform in order to excite a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) phenomenon, has been developed in order to carry out a "smart" sensitive interface (ER-SPR-POF interface). The ER-SPR-POF interface offers output data useful for exploiting a machine learning-based approach to achieve nano- and microplastic particle sensors. This work developed a proof-of-concept sensor through a training phase carried out by different particles, in terms of materials and size. The experimental results have demonstrated that the proposed "smart" ER-SPR-POF interface combined with AI can be used to identify the kind of particles in terms of the materials (polystyrene; poly(methyl methacrylate)) and size (20 μm; 100 nm) with an accuracy of 90.3%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mimimorena Seggio
- Department
of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 15, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Francesco Arcadio
- Department
of Engineering, University of Campania Luigi
Vanvitelli, via Roma 29, 81031 Aversa, Italy
| | - Eros Radicchi
- Department
of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 15, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Nunzio Cennamo
- Department
of Engineering, University of Campania Luigi
Vanvitelli, via Roma 29, 81031 Aversa, Italy
| | - Luigi Zeni
- Department
of Engineering, University of Campania Luigi
Vanvitelli, via Roma 29, 81031 Aversa, Italy
| | - Alessandra Maria Bossi
- Department
of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 15, 37134 Verona, Italy
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Shi K, Zhang H, Gao J, Zhang J, Zhang X, Kan G, Jiang J. Detection of nanoplastics released from consumer plastic food containers by electromagnetic heating pyrolysis mass spectrometry. Anal Chim Acta 2024; 1296:342344. [PMID: 38401923 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2024.342344] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics released from consumer plastic food containers are emerging environmental pollutants and directly ingested as part of the diet. However, quantification methods for nanoplastics are still lacking. Herein, a rapid identification and mass quantification approach was developed for nanoplastics analysis by combining electromagnetic heating with pyrolysis mass spectrometry (Eh-Py-MS). The pyrolysis products directly entered into the MS, which omits the gas phase separation process and shortens the detection time. A compact pyrolysis chamber was used and this increased the sample transfer efficiency and lowered power requirement. The operational parameters were systematically examined. The influence of nanoplastic size, additive, humic acid, and aging on detection was investigated, and it was concluded that environmental factors (humic acid, aging) and plastic properties (size, additives) did not influence the detection. The developed chamber showed that the limit of detection of polystyrene (PS) nanoplastics was 15.72 ng. Several typical food packages were demonstrated with satisfactory recovery rates (87.5-110%) and precision (RSD ≤11.36%). These results suggested that the consumer plastic food containers are a significant source of direct exposure to nanoplastics in humans from the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Shi
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150090, PR China; School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150090, PR China
| | - Hong Zhang
- School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150090, PR China.
| | - Jikun Gao
- School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China
| | - Jiaqian Zhang
- School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150090, PR China
| | - Xiangnan Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, 224051, PR China
| | - Guangfeng Kan
- School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150090, PR China
| | - Jie Jiang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150090, PR China; School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150090, PR China.
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10
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Shen W, Zhao M, Xu W, Shi X, Ren F, Tu P, Gao N, Shan J, Gao B. Sex-Specific Effects of Polystyrene Microplastic and Lead(II) Co-Exposure on the Gut Microbiome and Fecal Metabolome in C57BL/6 Mice. Metabolites 2024; 14:189. [PMID: 38668317 PMCID: PMC11051764 DOI: 10.3390/metabo14040189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The wide spread of microplastics has fueled growing public health concern globally. Due to their porous structure and large surface area, microplastics can serve as carriers for other environmental pollutants, including heavy metals. Although the toxic effects of microplastics or heavy metals have been reported previously, investigations into the sex-differential health effects of combined exposure to microplastics and heavy metals are lacking. In the present study, the effects of polystyrene microplastics and lead(II) co-exposure on the gut microbiome, intestinal permeability, and fecal metabolome were examined in both male and female mice. Combined exposure of polystyrene microplastics and lead(II) increased intestinal permeability in both male and female mice. Sex-specific responses to the co-exposure were found in gut bacteria, fungi, microbial metabolic pathways, microbial genes encoding antibiotic resistance and virulence factors, as well as fecal metabolic profiles. In particular, Shannon and Simpson indices of gut bacteria were reduced by the co-exposure only in female mice. A total of 34 and 13 fecal metabolites were altered in the co-exposure group in female and male mice, respectively, among which only three metabolites were shared by both sexes. These sex-specific responses to the co-exposure need to be taken into consideration when investigating the combined toxic effects of microplastics and heavy metals on the gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weishou Shen
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing 210044, China; (W.S.); (M.Z.); (X.S.)
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring and Pollution Control, Collaborative In-Novation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology, Nanjing 210044, China
- Institute of Soil Health and Climate-Smart Agriculture, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing 210044, China
| | - Meng Zhao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing 210044, China; (W.S.); (M.Z.); (X.S.)
| | - Weichen Xu
- Medical Metabolomics Center, Institute of Pediatrics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; (W.X.); (J.S.)
| | - Xiaochun Shi
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing 210044, China; (W.S.); (M.Z.); (X.S.)
| | - Fangfang Ren
- School of Biological and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China; (F.R.); (N.G.)
| | - Pengcheng Tu
- Department of Environmental Health, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 3399 Binsheng Road, Hangzhou 310051, China;
| | - Nan Gao
- School of Biological and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China; (F.R.); (N.G.)
| | - Jinjun Shan
- Medical Metabolomics Center, Institute of Pediatrics, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; (W.X.); (J.S.)
| | - Bei Gao
- School of Marine Sciences, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing 210044, China
- Key Laboratory of Hydrometeorological Disaster Mechanism and Warning of Ministry of Water Resources, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing 210044, China
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11
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Casella C, Ballaz SJ. Genotoxic and neurotoxic potential of intracellular nanoplastics: A review. J Appl Toxicol 2024. [PMID: 38494651 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4598] [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: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Plastic waste comprises polymers of different chemicals that disintegrate into nanoplastic particles (NPLs) of 1-100-nm size, thereby littering the environment and posing a threat to wildlife and human health. Research on NPL contamination has up to now focused on the ecotoxicology effects of the pollution rather than the health risks. This review aimed to speculate about the possible properties of carcinogenic and neurotoxic NPL as pollutants. Given their low-dimensional size and high surface size ratio, NPLs can easily penetrate biological membranes to cause functional and structural damage in cells. Once inside the cell, NPLs can interrupt the autophagy flux of cellular debris, alter proteostasis, provoke mitochondrial dysfunctions, and induce endoplasmic reticulum stress. Harmful metabolic and biological processes induced by NPLs include oxidative stress (OS), ROS generation, and pro-inflammatory reactions. Depending on the cell cycle status, NPLs may direct DNA damage, tumorigenesis, and lately carcinogenesis in tissues with high self-renewal capabilities like epithelia. In cells able to live the longest like neurons, NPLs could trigger neurodegeneration by promoting toxic proteinaceous aggregates, OS, and chronic inflammation. NPL genotoxicity and neurotoxicity are discussed based on the gathered evidence, when available, within the context of the intracellular uptake of these newcomer nanoparticles. In summary, this review explains how the risk evaluation of NPL pollution for human health may benefit from accurately monitoring NPL toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics at the intracellular resolution level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Casella
- Department Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
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12
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Liu TJ, Yang J, Wu JW, Sun XR, Gao XJ. Polyethylene microplastics induced inflammation via the miR-21/IRAK4/NF-κB axis resulting to endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis in muscle of carp. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2024; 145:109375. [PMID: 38218424 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2024.109375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
As a widespread environmental pollutant, microplastics pose a great threat to the tissues and organs of aquatic animals. The carp's muscles are necessary for movement and survival. However, the mechanism of injury of polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) to carp muscle remains unclear. Therefore, in this study, PE-MPs with the diameter of 8 μm and the concentration of 1000 ng/L were used to feed carp for 21 days, and polyethylene microplastic treatment groups was established. The results showed that PE-MPs could cause structural abnormalities and disarrangement of muscle fibers, and aggravate oxidative stress in muscles. Exposure to PE-MPs reduced microRNA (miR-21) in muscle tissue, negatively regulated Interleukin-1 Receptor Associated Kinase 4 (IRAK4), activated Nuclear Factor Kappa-B (NF-κB) pathway, induced inflammation, and led to endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis. The present study provides different targets for the prevention of muscle injury induced by polyethylene microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Jing Liu
- Department of Basic Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Basic Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Jia-Wei Wu
- Department of Basic Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Xiao-Ran Sun
- Department of Basic Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Xue-Jiao Gao
- Department of Basic Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China.
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13
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Dainelli M, Castellani MB, Pignattelli S, Falsini S, Ristori S, Papini A, Colzi I, Coppi A, Gonnelli C. Growth, physiological parameters and DNA methylation in Spirodela polyrhiza (L.) Schleid exposed to PET micro-nanoplastic contaminated waters. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY : PPB 2024; 207:108403. [PMID: 38290343 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2024.108403] [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: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
The effects of polyethylene terephthalate micro-nanoplastics (PET-MNPs) were tested on the model freshwater species Spirodela polyrhiza (L.) Schleid., with focus on possible particle-induced epigenetic effects (i.e. alteration of DNA methylation status). MNPs (size ∼ 200-300 nm) were produced as water dispersions from PET bottles through repeated cycles of homogenization and used to prepare N-medium at two environmentally relevant concentrations (∼0.05 g L-1 and ∼0.1 g L-1 of MNPs). After 10 days of exposure, a reduction in fresh and dry weight was observed in treated plants, even if the average specific growth rate for both frond number and area was not altered. Impaired growth was coupled with a MNP-induced decrease of chlorophyll fluorescence parameters (i.e. ΨETo and Piabs, indicators of photochemical efficiency) and starch concentration, as well as with alterations in plant ionomic profile and oxidative status. The methylation-sensitive amplification polymorphism (MSAP) technique was used to assess possible changes in DNA methylation levels induced by plastic particles. The analysis showed unusual hypermethylation in 5'-CCGG sites that could be implicated in DNA protection from dangerous agents (i.e. reactive oxygen species) or in the formation of new epialleles. This work represents the first evidence of MNP-induced epigenetic modifications in the plant world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Dainelli
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121, Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Beatrice Castellani
- Institute of Bioscience and Bioresources (IBBR), National Research Council (CNR), Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Sara Pignattelli
- Institute of Bioscience and Bioresources (IBBR), National Research Council (CNR), Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Sara Falsini
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121, Florence, Italy
| | - Sandra Ristori
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, Firenze, Italy
| | - Alessio Papini
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121, Florence, Italy
| | - Ilaria Colzi
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121, Florence, Italy.
| | - Andrea Coppi
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121, Florence, Italy
| | - Cristina Gonnelli
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121, Florence, Italy
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14
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Ratre P, Nazeer N, Soni N, Kaur P, Tiwari R, Mishra PK. Smart carbon-based sensors for the detection of non-coding RNAs associated with exposure to micro(nano)plastics: an artificial intelligence perspective. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:8429-8452. [PMID: 38182954 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31779-9] [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: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
Micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) are pervasive environmental pollutants that individuals eventually consume. Despite this, little is known about MNP's impact on public health. In this article, we assess the evidence for potentially harmful consequences of MNPs in the human body, concentrating on molecular toxicity and exposure routes. Since MNPs are present in various consumer products, foodstuffs, and the air we breathe, exposure can occur through ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact. MNPs exposure can cause mitochondrial oxidative stress, inflammatory lesions, and epigenetic modifications, releasing specific non-coding RNAs in circulation, which can be detected to diagnose non-communicable diseases. This article examines the most fascinating smart carbon-based nanobiosensors for detecting circulating non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs and microRNAs). Carbon-based smart nanomaterials offer many advantages over traditional methods, such as ease of use, sensitivity, specificity, and efficiency, for capturing non-coding RNAs. In particular, the synthetic methods, conjugation chemistries, doping, and in silico approach for the characterization of synthesized carbon nanodots and their adaptability to identify and measure non-coding RNAs associated with MNPs exposure is discussed. Furthermore, the article provides insights into the use of artificial intelligence tools for designing smart carbon nanomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Ratre
- Department of Environmental Biotechnology, Genetics & Molecular Biology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Environmental Health, Bhopal, India
| | - Nazim Nazeer
- Department of Environmental Biotechnology, Genetics & Molecular Biology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Environmental Health, Bhopal, India
| | - Nikita Soni
- Department of Environmental Biotechnology, Genetics & Molecular Biology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Environmental Health, Bhopal, India
| | - Prasan Kaur
- Department of Environmental Biotechnology, Genetics & Molecular Biology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Environmental Health, Bhopal, India
| | - Rajnarayan Tiwari
- Department of Environmental Biotechnology, Genetics & Molecular Biology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Environmental Health, Bhopal, India
| | - Pradyumna Kumar Mishra
- Department of Environmental Biotechnology, Genetics & Molecular Biology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Environmental Health, Bhopal, India.
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15
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Naidu G, Nagar N, Poluri KM. Mechanistic Insights into Cellular and Molecular Basis of Protein-Nanoplastic Interactions. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2305094. [PMID: 37786309 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202305094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Plastic waste is ubiquitously present across the world, and its nano/sub-micron analogues (plastic nanoparticles, PNPs), raise severe environmental concerns affecting organisms' health. Considering the direct and indirect toxic implications of PNPs, their biological impacts are actively being studied; lately, with special emphasis on cellular and molecular mechanistic intricacies. Combinatorial OMICS studies identified proteins as major regulators of PNP mediated cellular toxicity via activation of oxidative enzymes and generation of ROS. Alteration of protein function by PNPs results in DNA damage, organellar dysfunction, and autophagy, thus resulting in inflammation/cell death. The molecular mechanistic basis of these cellular toxic endeavors is fine-tuned at the level of structural alterations in proteins of physiological relevance. Detailed biophysical studies on such protein-PNP interactions evidenced prominent modifications in their structural architecture and conformational energy landscape. Another essential aspect of the protein-PNP interactions includes bioenzymatic plastic degradation perspective, as the interactive units of plastics are essentially nano-sized. Combining all these attributes of protein-PNP interactions, the current review comprehensively documented the contemporary understanding of the concerned interactions in the light of cellular, molecular, kinetic/thermodynamic details. Additionally, the applicatory, economical facet of these interactions, PNP biogeochemical cycle and enzymatic advances pertaining to plastic degradation has also been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goutami Naidu
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
| | - Nupur Nagar
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
| | - Krishna Mohan Poluri
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
- Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, 247667, India
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16
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Delaney S, Rodriguez C, Sarrett SM, Dayts EJ, Zeglis BM, Keinänen O. Unraveling the in vivo fate of inhaled micro- and nanoplastics with PET imaging. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166320. [PMID: 37586535 PMCID: PMC10841220 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics and nanoplastics have become ubiquitous environmental pollutants. The threat these plastics pose to human health has fueled research focused on their pathophysiology and toxicology, yet many of their fundamental properties - for example, their in vivo pharmacokinetics - remain poorly understood. In this investigation, we have harnessed positron emission tomography (PET) to track the in vivo fate of micro- and nanoplastics administered to mice intratracheally and intravenously. To this end, 1 μm and 20 nm diameter amine-functionalized polystyrene particles were modified with an isothiocyanate-bearing variant of desferrioxamine (DFO) and radiolabeled with the positron-emitting radiometal [89Zr]Zr4+. Both radioplastics - [89Zr]Zr-DFO-PS1000 and [89Zr]Zr-DFO-PS20 - were produced in ∼95% radiochemical yield and found to be >85% stable to demetallation over one week at 37 °C in human serum and simulated lung fluid. The incubation of [89Zr]Zr-DFO-PS1000 and [89Zr]Zr-DFO-PS20 with MH-S cells revealed that the majority of the former were phagocytosed by alveolar macrophages within 4 h, while the latter largely evaded consumption. Finally, the in vivo behavior of the radioplastics was interrogated in mice upon intravenous and intratracheal administration. PET imaging and biodistribution experiments revealed that the intravenously injected plastics accumulated primarily in the liver and spleen, yielding hepatic radioactivity concentrations of 101 ± 48 %ID/g and 92 ± 22 %ID/g at 168 h post-injection for [89Zr]Zr-DFO-PS1000 and [89Zr]Zr-DFO-PS20, respectively. In contrast, the mice that received the radioplastics via intratracheal installation displayed the highest uptake in the lungs at the end of one week: 4 ± 2 %ID/g for [89Zr]Zr-DFO-PS1000 and 32 ± 6 %ID/g for [89Zr]Zr-DFO-PS20. Ultimately, this work illustrates the critical role that the route of exposure plays in the bioaccumulation of plastic particles, reveals that size dramatically influences the pulmonary retention of inhaled particles, and underscores the value of PET imaging as a tool for studying the pharmacokinetics of environmental pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Delaney
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY 10065, USA; Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY 10016, USA; Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Cindy Rodriguez
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY 10065, USA; Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10021, USA; Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Samantha M Sarrett
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY 10065, USA; Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY 10016, USA; Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Eric J Dayts
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Brian M Zeglis
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY 10065, USA; Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY 10016, USA; Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10021, USA; Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY 10016, USA; Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Outi Keinänen
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY 10065, USA; Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY 10016, USA; Department of Chemistry, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland.
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17
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Delaney S, Sebastiano J, Zeglis BM, Keinänen OM. Molecular Imaging, Radiochemistry, and Environmental Pollutants. J Nucl Med 2023; 64:1179-1184. [PMID: 37442598 PMCID: PMC10394311 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.122.265209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The worldwide proliferation of persistent environmental pollutants is accelerating at an alarming rate. Not surprisingly, many of these pollutants pose a risk to human health. In this review, we examine recent literature in which molecular imaging and radiochemistry have been harnessed to study environmental pollutants. Specifically, these techniques offer unique ways to interrogate the pharmacokinetic profiles and bioaccumulation patterns of pollutants at environmentally relevant concentrations, thereby helping to determine their potential health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Delaney
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, New York
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
- Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, Graduate Center of City University of New York, New York, New York
| | - Joni Sebastiano
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, New York
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
- Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, Graduate Center of City University of New York, New York, New York
| | - Brian M Zeglis
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, New York
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
- Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, Graduate Center of City University of New York, New York, New York
- Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, Graduate Center of City University of New York, New York, New York
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York; and
| | - Outi M Keinänen
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, New York;
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
- Department of Chemistry, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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18
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Chen X, Xu L, Chen Q, Su S, Zhuang J, Qiao D. Polystyrene micro- and nanoparticles exposure induced anxiety-like behaviors, gut microbiota dysbiosis and metabolism disorder in adult mice. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 259:115000. [PMID: 37210994 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Plastics have been proven to be a potential threat to the ecosystem, and their toxicity mechanism is still uncertain. In the ecological environment, plastics can be degraded into microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs), which can be contaminated and ingested through the food chain. MPs and NPs are associated with severe intestinal injury, intestinal microbiota disorder, and neurotoxicity, but it is still unclear whether MPs- and NPs-induced intestinal microbiota dysbiosis will affect the brain through the gut-brain axis. In the current study, we determined the effects of exposure to polystyrene (PS)-MPs and PS-NPs on anxiety-like behaviors and explored the underlying mechanisms. This study explored the behavioral effects of 30-day and 60-day exposure to PS-NPs and PS-MPs using the open field test (OFT) and elevated plus maze (EPM) test. Behavioral tests showed PS-NPs and PS-MPs treatment remarkedly induced anxiety-like behaviors compared with the control group. Using 16 S rRNA gene sequencing and untargeted metabolomics analyses, we observed that PS-MPs and PS-NPs exposure reduced the beneficial gut microbiota expression level, such as Lachnoclostridium and Lactobacillus, and increased the conditionally pathogenic bacteria expressions level, such as Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Desulfovibrio. In addition, PS-NPs and PS-MPs reduce intestinal mucus secretion and increase intestinal permeability. The results of serum metabonomics suggested that the metabolic pathways, such as ABC transporter pathways, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, biosynthesis of amino acids, and bile secretion were enriched after PS-NPs and PS-MPs treatment. Besides, neurotransmitter metabolites were also altered by PS-NPs and PS-MPs. It is noteworthy that the correlation analysis showed that the disorder of intestinal microbiota was related to anxiety-like behaviors and neurotransmitter metabolites disorder. The regulation of intestinal microbiota may be a promising treatment strategy for PS-MPs- and PS-NPs-induced anxiety disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuebing Chen
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Forensic Multi-Omics for Precision Identiffcation, School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Luyao Xu
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Forensic Multi-Omics for Precision Identiffcation, School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Qianling Chen
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Forensic Multi-Omics for Precision Identiffcation, School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Shuying Su
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Forensic Multi-Omics for Precision Identiffcation, School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Jingshen Zhuang
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopaedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Dongfang Qiao
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Forensic Multi-Omics for Precision Identiffcation, School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China.
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19
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Jiménez‐Arroyo C, Tamargo A, Molinero N, Moreno‐Arribas MV. The gut microbiota, a key to understanding the health implications of micro(nano)plastics and their biodegradation. Microb Biotechnol 2023; 16:34-53. [PMID: 36415969 PMCID: PMC9803334 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of plastic debris on the environment and plant, animal, and human health are a global challenge, with micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) being the main focus. MNPs are found so often in the food chain that they are provoking an increase in human intake. They have been detected in most categories of consumed foods, drinking water, and even human feces. Therefore, oral ingestion becomes the main source of exposure to MNPs, and the gastrointestinal tract, primarily the gut, constantly interacts with these small particles. The consequences of human exposure to MNPs remain unclear. However, current in vivo studies and in vitro gastrointestinal tract models have shown that MNPs of several types and sizes impact gut intestinal bacteria, affecting gut homeostasis. The typical microbiome signature of MNP ingestion is often associated with dysbiosis and loss of resilience, leads to frequent pathogen outbreaks, and local and systemic metabolic disorders. Moreover, the small micro- and nano-plastic particles found in animal tissues with accumulated evidence of microbial degradation of plastics/MNPs by bacteria and insect gut microbiota raise the issue of whether human gut bacteria make key contributions to the bio-transformation of ingested MNPs. Here, we discuss these issues and unveil the complex interplay between MNPs and the human gut microbiome. Therefore, the elucidation of the biological consequences of this interaction on both host and microbiota is undoubtedly challenging. It is expected that microbial biotechnology and microbiome research could help decipher the extent to which gut microorganisms diversify and MNP-determinant species, mechanisms, and enzymatic systems, as well as become important to understand our response to MNP exposure and provide background information to inspire future holistic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alba Tamargo
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación (CIAL)CSIC‐UAMMadridSpain
| | - Natalia Molinero
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación (CIAL)CSIC‐UAMMadridSpain
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Ferrari L, Panaite SA, Bertazzo A, Visioli F. Animal- and Plant-Based Protein Sources: A Scoping Review of Human Health Outcomes and Environmental Impact. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14235115. [PMID: 36501146 PMCID: PMC9741334 DOI: 10.3390/nu14235115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Dietary proteins are indispensable to human nutrition. In addition to their tissue-building function, they affect body composition and regulate various metabolic pathways, as well as satiety and immune system activity. Protein use can be examined from a quantitative or qualitative viewpoint. In this scoping review, we compare animal- and plant-based protein sources in terms of their effects on human health and the environment. We conclude that the consumption of vegetable protein sources is associated with better health outcomes overall (namely, on the cardiovascular system) than animal-based product use. The healthier outcomes of vegetable protein sources dovetail with their lower environmental impact, which must be considered when designing an optimal diet. Indeed, the health of the planet cannot be disjointed from the health of the human being. Future research will clarify the mechanisms of action underlying the health effects of plant-based protein sources when compared with animal sources, fostering better agronomic practices and influencing public health in a direction that will benefit both the planet and its inhabitants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Ferrari
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy
| | - Stefan-Alexandru Panaite
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences, and Public Health, School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy
| | - Antonella Bertazzo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy
| | - Francesco Visioli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy
- IMDEA-Food, CEI UAM+CSIC, 28001 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence:
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Molina E, Benedé S. Is There Evidence of Health Risks From Exposure to Micro- and Nanoplastics in Foods? Front Nutr 2022; 9:910094. [PMID: 35836585 PMCID: PMC9274238 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.910094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The human health impact of exposure to micro (MP) and nanoplastics (NP) from food remains unknown. There are several gaps in knowledge that prevent a complete risk assessment of them. First, the fact that some plastics may be chemically harmful, either directly toxic themselves or because they absorb and carry other components, which makes these particles may possess 3 types of hazards, physical, chemical and biological. In addition, the levels at which toxic effects may occur are unknown and there is a lack of studies to estimate the levels to which we are exposed. Plastic particles can induce physical stress and damage, apoptosis, necrosis, inflammation, oxidative stress and immune responses, which could contribute to the development of diseases such as cancer, metabolic disorders, and neurodevelopmental conditions, among others. In addition, they may have effects on other pathologies that have not yet been studied, such as food allergy, where they could act modifying the digestibility of food allergens, increasing intestinal permeability, promoting an intestinal inflammatory environment or causing intestinal dysbiosis, which could promote food allergen sensitization. However, given the limited information on the presence of MP and especially NP in food, further research is needed to estimate whether they could amplify the risk of allergic sensitization to food proteins and to elucidate the risk to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Benedé
- Food Allergy Group, Department of Bioactivity and Food Analysis, Institute of Food Science Research (CIAL, CSIC-UAM), Spanish National Research Council, Madrid, Spain
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22
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Lorenzo PM, Izquierdo AG, Rodriguez-Carnero G, Fernández-Pombo A, Iglesias A, Carreira MC, Tejera C, Bellido D, Martinez-Olmos MA, Leis R, Casanueva FF, Crujeiras AB. Epigenetic Effects of Healthy Foods and Lifestyle Habits from the Southern European Atlantic Diet Pattern: A Narrative Review. Adv Nutr 2022; 13:1725-1747. [PMID: 35421213 PMCID: PMC9526853 DOI: 10.1093/advances/nmac038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent scientific evidence has shown the importance of diet and lifestyle habits for the proper functioning of the human body. A balanced and healthy diet, physical activity, and psychological well-being have a direct beneficial effect on health and can have a crucial role in the development and prognosis of certain diseases. The Southern European Atlantic diet, also named the Atlantic diet, is a unique dietary pattern that occurs in regions that present higher life expectancy, suggesting that this specific dietary pattern is associated with positive health effects. In fact, it is enriched with nutrients of high biological value, which, together with its cooking methods, physical activity promotion, reduction in carbon footprint, and promoting of family meals, promote these positive effects on health. The latest scientific advances in the field of nutri-epigenetics have revealed that epigenetic markers associated with food or nutrients and environmental factors modulate gene expression and, therefore, are involved with both health and disease. Thus, in this review, we evaluated the main aspects that define the Southern European Atlantic diet and the potential epigenetic changes associated with them based on recent studies regarding the main components of these dietary patterns. In conclusion, based on the information existing in the literature, we postulate that the Southern European Atlantic diet could promote healthy aging by means of epigenetic mechanisms. This review highlights the necessity of performing longitudinal studies to demonstrate this proposal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula M Lorenzo
- Epigenomics in Endocrinology and Nutrition Group, Epigenomics Unit, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain,CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain
| | - Andrea G Izquierdo
- Epigenomics in Endocrinology and Nutrition Group, Epigenomics Unit, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain,CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain
| | - Gemma Rodriguez-Carnero
- Epigenomics in Endocrinology and Nutrition Group, Epigenomics Unit, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain,Endocrinology and Nutrition Division, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Antía Fernández-Pombo
- Endocrinology and Nutrition Division, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Alba Iglesias
- Epigenomics in Endocrinology and Nutrition Group, Epigenomics Unit, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Marcos C Carreira
- CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain,Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology Group. Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS) and Santiago de Compostela University (USC), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Cristina Tejera
- Epigenomics in Endocrinology and Nutrition Group, Epigenomics Unit, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain,Endocrinology and Nutrition Unit, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Ferrol (CHUF/SERGAS), Ferrol, Spain
| | - Diego Bellido
- Epigenomics in Endocrinology and Nutrition Group, Epigenomics Unit, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain,Endocrinology and Nutrition Unit, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Ferrol (CHUF/SERGAS), Ferrol, Spain
| | - Miguel A Martinez-Olmos
- Epigenomics in Endocrinology and Nutrition Group, Epigenomics Unit, Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain,CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain,Endocrinology and Nutrition Division, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS/SERGAS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Rosaura Leis
- CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain,Department of Pediatrics, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS); Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS) and Santiago de Compostela University (USC), Santiago de Compostela, Spain,Fundacion Dieta Atlántica, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Felipe F Casanueva
- CIBER Fisiopatologia de la Obesidad y Nutricion (CIBERobn), Madrid, Spain,Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology Group. Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS) and Santiago de Compostela University (USC), Santiago de Compostela, Spain,Fundacion Dieta Atlántica, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
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