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Vujic E, Ferguson SS, Brouwer KLR. Effects of PFAS on human liver transporters: implications for health outcomes. Toxicol Sci 2024; 200:213-227. [PMID: 38724241 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfae061] [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] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have become internationally recognized over the past three decades as persistent organic pollutants used in the production of various consumer and industrial goods. Research efforts continue to gauge the risk that historically used, and newly produced, PFAS may cause to human health. Numerous studies report toxic effects of PFAS on the human liver as well as increased serum cholesterol levels in adults. A major concern with PFAS, also dubbed "forever chemicals," is that they accumulate in the liver and kidney and persist in serum. The mechanisms responsible for their disposition and excretion in humans are poorly understood. A better understanding of the interaction of PFAS with liver transporters, as it pertains to the disposition of PFAS and other xenobiotics, could provide mechanistic insight into human health effects and guide efforts toward risk assessment of compounds in development. This review summarizes the current state of the literature on the emerging relationships (eg, substrates, inhibitors, modulators of gene expression) between PFAS and specific hepatic transporters. The adaptive and toxicological responses of hepatocytes to PFAS that reveal linkages to pathologies and epidemiological findings are highlighted. The evidence suggests that our understanding of the molecular landscape of PFAS must improve to determine their impact on the expression and function of hepatocyte transporters that play a key role in PFAS or other xenobiotic disposition. From here, we can assess what role these changes may have in documented human health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ena Vujic
- Curriculum in Toxicology & Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Stephen S Ferguson
- Division of Translational Toxicology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kim L R Brouwer
- Division of Pharmacotherapy and Experimental Therapeutics, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Curriculum in Toxicology & Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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2
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Collier GE, Lavado R. An in-depth examination of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) effects on transporters, with emphasis on the ABC superfamily: A critical review. Toxicology 2024; 508:153901. [PMID: 39094918 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2024.153901] [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: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 07/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) substances are a type of chemical compound unique for their multiple carbon-fluorine bonds, imbuing them with strength and environmental permanence. While legacy substances have been phased out due to human health risks, short-chain and alternative PFAS remain omnipresent. However, a detailed explanation for the pathways through which PFAS interact on a cellular and molecular level is still largely unknown, and the human health effects remain mechanistically unexplained. Of particular interest when focusing on this topic are the interactions between these exogenous chemicals and plasma and membrane proteins. Such proteins include serum albumin which can transport PFAS throughout the body, solute carrier proteins (SLC) and ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporters which are able to move PFAS into and out of cells, and proteins and nuclear receptors which interact with PFAS intracellularly. ABC transporters as a family have little available human data despite being responsible for the export of endogenous substances and drugs throughout the body. The multifactorial regulation of these crucial transporters is affected directly and indirectly by PFAS. Changes, which can include alterations to membrane transport activity and differences in protein expression, vary greatly depending on the specific PFAS and protein of interest. Together, the myriad of changes caused by understudied PFAS exposure to a class of understudied proteins crucial to cellular function and drug treatments has not been fully explored regarding human health and presents room for further exploration. This critical work aims to provide a novel framework of existing human data on PFAS and ABC transporters, allowing for future advancement and investigation into human transporter activity, mechanisms of regulation, and interactions with emerging contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gracen E Collier
- Department of Environmental Science, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798, United States
| | - Ramon Lavado
- Department of Environmental Science, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798, United States.
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3
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Schrenk D, Bignami M, Bodin L, Chipman JK, del Mazo J, Grasl‐Kraupp B, Hogstrand C, Hoogenboom L(R, Leblanc J, Nebbia CS, Nielsen E, Ntzani E, Petersen A, Sand S, Schwerdtle T, Wallace H, Benford D, Hart A, Schroeder H, Rose M, Vrijheid M, Kouloura E, Bordajandi LR, Riolo F, Vleminckx C. Update of the scientific opinion on tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) and its derivatives in food. EFSA J 2024; 22:e8859. [PMID: 39010865 PMCID: PMC11247339 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2024.8859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The European Commission asked EFSA to update its 2011 risk assessment on tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) and five derivatives in food. Neurotoxicity and carcinogenicity were considered as the critical effects of TBBPA in rodent studies. The available evidence indicates that the carcinogenicity of TBBPA occurs via non-genotoxic mechanisms. Taking into account the new data, the CONTAM Panel considered it appropriate to set a tolerable daily intake (TDI). Based on decreased interest in social interaction in male mice, a lowest observed adverse effect level (LOAEL) of 0.2 mg/kg body weight (bw) per day was identified and selected as the reference point for the risk characterisation. Applying the default uncertainty factor of 100 for inter- and intraspecies variability, and a factor of 3 to extrapolate from the LOAEL to NOAEL, a TDI for TBBPA of 0.7 μg/kg bw per day was established. Around 2100 analytical results for TBBPA in food were used to estimate dietary exposure for the European population. The most important contributors to the chronic dietary LB exposure to TBBPA were fish and seafood, meat and meat products and milk and dairy products. The exposure estimates to TBBPA were all below the TDI, including those estimated for breastfed and formula-fed infants. Accounting for the uncertainties affecting the assessment, the CONTAM Panel concluded with 90%-95% certainty that the current dietary exposure to TBBPA does not raise a health concern for any of the population groups considered. There were insufficient data on the toxicity of any of the TBBPA derivatives to derive reference points, or to allow a comparison with TBBPA that would support assignment to an assessment group for the purposes of combined risk assessment.
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Erthal-Michelato RP, Quadreli DH, Zaninelli TH, Verri WA, Fernandes GSA. Lower malathion concentrations reduce testosterone biosynthesis by Leydig TM3 cells in vitro by altering cellular redox profile and inducing oxidative damage. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 126:108595. [PMID: 38641014 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2024.108595] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Malathion is an organophosphate pesticide used in agriculture and control of the Aedes aegypti mosquito. As previous reports have indicated the potential of malathion to compromise testosterone production in in vivo models, the objective of this study was to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the impairment of Leydig cell function, considering its critical role in male reproductive function. To this end, murine Leydig TM3 cells were exposed to concentrations of 1, 10, 100 or 1000 μM malathion for 24 h for evaluation of the compound on cell viability. Subsequently, concentrations of 1, 10, and 100 μM malathion were employed for a 24-h period to assess testosterone biosynthesis, levels of cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α, as well as the redox profile. Malathion exerted a concentration-dependent impact on cell viability. Notably, the lower concentrations of malathion (1 and 10 μM) were found to impair testosterone biosynthesis in TM3 cells. While there were changes in IL-1 and TNF-α levels at specific concentrations, no direct correlation with altered hormone production was established. Our investigation revealed that varied malathion concentrations induced oxidative stress by increase in superoxide anion and a compensatory rise in antioxidants. In conclusion, the observed changes in the oxidative profile of TM3 cells were linked to functional impairment, evidenced by reduced testosterone biosynthesis at lower malathion concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaela Pires Erthal-Michelato
- Department of General Biology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, PR 445, Londrina, Paraná 86057-970, Brazil; Department of General Pathology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, PR 445, Londrina, Paraná 86057-970, Brazil.
| | - Débora Hipólito Quadreli
- Department of General Biology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, PR 445, Londrina, Paraná 86057-970, Brazil
| | - Tiago Henrique Zaninelli
- Department of General Pathology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, PR 445, Londrina, Paraná 86057-970, Brazil
| | - Waldiceu Aparecido Verri
- Department of General Pathology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, PR 445, Londrina, Paraná 86057-970, Brazil
| | - Glaura Scantamburlo Alves Fernandes
- Department of General Biology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, PR 445, Londrina, Paraná 86057-970, Brazil
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Ying Y, Wang S, Han L, Li H, Wang Y, Lv J, Ge RS, Tang Y. Perfluorotetradecanoic acid exposure to adult male rats stimulates corticosterone biosynthesis but inhibits aldosterone production. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2024; 39:2610-2622. [PMID: 38205621 DOI: 10.1002/tox.24135] [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: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Perfluorotetradecanoic acid (PFTeDA) is a novel perfluoroalkyl substance that ubiquitously exists in the environment. However, whether PFTeDA affects adrenal cortex function remains unclear. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (age of 60 days) were daily administered with PFTeDA (0, 1, 5, and 10 mg/kg body weight) through gavage for 28 days. PFTeDA did not change body and adrenal gland weights. PFTeDA markedly elevated serum corticosterone level at 10 mg/kg but lowering serum aldosterone level at this dosage without influencing serum adrenocorticotropic hormone level. PFTeDA thickened zona fasciculata without affecting zona glomerulosa. PFTeDA remarkably upregulated the expression of corticosterone biosynthetic genes (Mc2r, Scarb1, Star, Cyp21, Cyp11b1, and Hsd11b1) and their proteins, whereas downregulating aldosterone biosynthetic enzyme Cyp11b2 and its protein, thereby distinctly altering their serum levels. PFTeDA markedly downregulated the expression of antioxidant genes (Sod1 and Sod2) and their proteins at 10 mg/kg. PFTeDA significantly decreased SIRT1/PGC1α and AMPK signaling while stimulating AKT1/mTOR signaling. Corticosterone significantly inhibited testosterone production by adult Leydig cells at >0.1 μM in vitro; however aldosterone significantly stimulated testosterone production at 0.1 nM. In conclusion, exposure to PFTeDA at male rat adulthood causes corticosterone excess and aldosterone deficiency via SIRT1/PGC1α, AMPK, and AKT1/mTOR signals, which in turn additively leads to testosterone deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingfen Ying
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Shaowei Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Lu Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Huitao Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yiyan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jieqiang Lv
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yunbing Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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6
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Xu Y, Nie J, Lu C, Hu C, Chen Y, Ma Y, Huang Y, Lu L. Effects and mechanisms of bisphenols exposure on neurodegenerative diseases risk: A systemic review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 919:170670. [PMID: 38325473 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170670] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Environmental bisphenols (BPs) pose a global threat to human health because of their extensive use as additives in plastic products. BP residues are increasing in various environmental media (i.e., water, soil, and indoor dust) and biological and human samples (i.e., serum and brain). Both epidemiological and animal studies have determined an association between exposure to BPs and an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), including cognitive abnormalities and behavioral disturbances. Hence, understanding the biological responses to different BPs is essential for prevention, and treatment. This study provides an overview of the underlying pathogenic molecular mechanisms as a valuable basis for understanding neurodegenerative disease responses to BPs, including accumulation of misfolded proteins, reduction of tyrosine hydroxylase and dopamine, abnormal hormone signaling, neuronal death, oxidative stress, calcium homeostasis, and inflammation. These findings provide new insights into the neurotoxic potential of BPs and ultimately contribute to a comprehensive health risk evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeqing Xu
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Jun Nie
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; School of Engineering, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Chenghao Lu
- College of Mathematics and Computer Science, Zhejiang A & F University, Hangzhou 311300, China
| | - Chao Hu
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China; School of Engineering, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Yunlu Chen
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Ying Ma
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Yuru Huang
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Liping Lu
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China.
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7
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Zhang D, Hu J, Li H. Perfluorooctanoic acid inhibits androgen biosynthesis in rat immature Leydig cells. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2024; 39:1700-1714. [PMID: 38050817 DOI: 10.1002/tox.24042] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a commonly used short-chain synthetic perfluoroalkyl agent. Immature Leydig cells (ILCs) are localized in the testis and responsible for androgen biosynthesis and metabolism. Although PFOA shows toxicity in the reproductive system, it is not clear if it disrupts the function of ILCs. In the present study, primary ILCs were isolated from 35-day-old rats and exposed to a range of PFOA concentrations (0, 0.01, 0.1, or 1 μM). It was determined that 0.1 or 1 μM PFOA reduced total androgen biosynthesis in ILCs. Specifically, 22R-hydroxycholesterol (22R), and pregnenolone (P5) mediated androgen biosynthesis were reduced by 0.1 μM PFOA. PFOA also selectively downregulated mRNA and protein expressions of steroidogenic enzymes including LHCGR, CYP11A1, 3β-HSD1, and NR5A1 at 0.01, 0.1, or 1 μM. Further analysis revealed that 0.1 μM PFOA inhibited CYP11A1 and 3β-HSD1 enzyme activities. However, PFOA did not significantly affect androgen metabolism and turnover under any of the conditions tested. And PFOA gavaging to 35-day-old rats at 5 or 10 mg/kg for 7 or 14 days also reduced serum androgen levels secreted by ILCs. Moreover, PFOA gavaging also downregulated the mRNA and protein expression levels of LHCGR, CYP11A1, 3β-HSD1, and NR5A1 in vivo. Taken together, these findings suggest that PFOA inhibits androgen biosynthesis in ILCs by selectively targeting key enzymes in the synthesis pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongxu Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiasheng Hu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Heming Li
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
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Hussain T, Metwally E, Murtaza G, Kalhoro DH, Chughtai MI, Tan B, Omur AD, Tunio SA, Akbar MS, Kalhoro MS. Redox mechanisms of environmental toxicants on male reproductive function. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1333845. [PMID: 38469179 PMCID: PMC10925774 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1333845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Humans and wildlife, including domesticated animals, are exposed to a myriad of environmental contaminants that are derived from various human activities, including agricultural, household, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial products. Excessive exposure to pesticides, heavy metals, and phthalates consequently causes the overproduction of reactive oxygen species. The equilibrium between reactive oxygen species and the antioxidant system is preserved to maintain cellular redox homeostasis. Mitochondria play a key role in cellular function and cell survival. Mitochondria are vulnerable to damage that can be provoked by environmental exposures. Once the mitochondrial metabolism is damaged, it interferes with energy metabolism and eventually causes the overproduction of free radicals. Furthermore, it also perceives inflammation signals to generate an inflammatory response, which is involved in pathophysiological mechanisms. A depleted antioxidant system provokes oxidative stress that triggers inflammation and regulates epigenetic function and apoptotic events. Apart from that, these chemicals influence steroidogenesis, deteriorate sperm quality, and damage male reproductive organs. It is strongly believed that redox signaling molecules are the key regulators that mediate reproductive toxicity. This review article aims to spotlight the redox toxicology of environmental chemicals on male reproduction function and its fertility prognosis. Furthermore, we shed light on the influence of redox signaling and metabolism in modulating the response of environmental toxins to reproductive function. Additionally, we emphasize the supporting evidence from diverse cellular and animal studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarique Hussain
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Animal Science Division, Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology College, Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (NIAB-C, PIEAS), Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Elsayed Metwally
- Department of Cytology and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Ghulam Murtaza
- Department of Livestock and Fisheries, Government of Sindh, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Dildar Hussain Kalhoro
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ismail Chughtai
- Animal Science Division, Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology College, Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (NIAB-C, PIEAS), Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Bie Tan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ali Dogan Omur
- Department of Artificial Insemination, Faculty, Veterinary Medicine, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Türkiye
| | - Shakeel Ahmed Tunio
- Department of Livestock Management, Faculty of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Shahzad Akbar
- Faculty of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, University of Poonch, Rawalakot, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Saleem Kalhoro
- Department of Agro-Industrial, Food, and Environmental Technology, Faculty of Applied Science, Food and Agro-Industrial Research Centre, King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok, Bangkok, Thailand
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Bigambo FM, Wang D, Sun J, Ding X, Li X, Gao B, Wu D, Gu W, Zhang M, Wang X. Association between Urinary BPA Substitutes and Precocious Puberty among Girls: A Single-Exposure and Mixed Exposure Approach from a Chinese Case-Control Study. TOXICS 2023; 11:905. [PMID: 37999557 PMCID: PMC10675366 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11110905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
There is an argument that BPA substitutes may have the same or more deleterious health effects as BPA due to their structural similarity. This study explored the association between urinary BPA substitutes and precocious puberty among girls by including 120 girls with precocious puberty (cases) aged 2-10 years enrolled at Nanjing Children's Hospital Department of Endocrinology in China between April 2021 to September 2021 and 145 healthy girls (controls) recruited from a primary school. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the effect of single exposures, and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) and quantile-based g-computation were used for the mixed effect. In the multivariate logistic regression, BPS (bisphenol S), TBBPA (tetrabromobisphenol A), and BPFL (bisphenol-FL) were significantly associated with increased risk of precocious puberty (odds ratio (OR) = 1.75, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.13, 2.76, p = 0.014), (OR = 1.46, CI: 1.06, 2.05; p = 0.023), and (OR = 1.47, CI: 1.01, 2.18; p = 0.047), respectively. The BMKR and quantile-based g-computation models revealed consistent associations for single exposures and there was insufficient evidence for the associations of the mixed exposure of bisphenols with precocious puberty. In conclusion, BPA substitutes such as BPS, TBBPA, and BPFL may be associated with an increased risk of precocious puberty in girls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francis Manyori Bigambo
- Department of Endocrinology, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210008, China; (F.M.B.); (D.W.); (W.G.)
| | - Dandan Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210008, China; (F.M.B.); (D.W.); (W.G.)
| | - Jian Sun
- Department of Emergency, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210008, China;
| | - Xinliang Ding
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (X.D.); (X.L.); (B.G.); (D.W.)
- Wuxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, The Affiliated Wuxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi 214023, China
- Research Base for Environment and Health in Wuxi, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuxi 214023, China
| | - Xiuzhu Li
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (X.D.); (X.L.); (B.G.); (D.W.)
- Wuxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, The Affiliated Wuxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi 214023, China
- Research Base for Environment and Health in Wuxi, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuxi 214023, China
| | - Beibei Gao
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (X.D.); (X.L.); (B.G.); (D.W.)
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Di Wu
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (X.D.); (X.L.); (B.G.); (D.W.)
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Wei Gu
- Department of Endocrinology, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210008, China; (F.M.B.); (D.W.); (W.G.)
| | - Mingzhi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (X.D.); (X.L.); (B.G.); (D.W.)
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210008, China; (F.M.B.); (D.W.); (W.G.)
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10
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Wang M, Song B, Song T, Sun K, He J, Deng J, Fang L, Luan T, Lin L. Efflux transport proteins of Tetrahymena thermophila play important roles in resistance to perfluorooctane sulfonate exposure. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 459:132287. [PMID: 37591171 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132287] [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] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
The biotoxicity of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) has been a concern. However, the effects of PFOS on Tetrahymena thermophila, a unicellular model organism, remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the toxicity and detoxification mechanism of PFOS in this protozoan. PFOS did not show prominent toxic effects on T. thermophila. Cell viability of T. thermophila can be concentration-dependently increased by PFOS. PFOS also increased the stability of cell membranes and the activity of lysosomes. However, PFOS inhibited efflux transporter activities. Most of the PFOS amount remained in the culture medium during the culture periods. Only a low amount of PFOS was absorbed by cells, where PFOS molecules were mainly combined with membrane proteins. The expressions of four membrane protein genes involved in transporting xenobiotics were analyzed by real time-PCR. The gene abcg25 was significantly up-regulated. The growth of abcg25 gene knockout protozoans under PFOS treatment was slightly inhibited. However, the amount of PFOS adsorbed by the knockout protozoans showed no significant difference from the Wild-type protozoans. We concluded that the ABCG25 protein might play a key role in preventing PFOS from entering the cell or being exported from the cells to protect T. thermophila against PFOS. However, ABCG25 was not the only membrane protein able to bind with PFOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol/School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Bingyu Song
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol/School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Tianyu Song
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol/School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Kailun Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol/School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Jin He
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol/School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Jiewei Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol/School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Ling Fang
- Instrumental Analysis and Research Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Tiangang Luan
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol/School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Li Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol/School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
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11
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Zheng S, Zhao N, Lin X, Qiu L. Impacts and potential mechanisms of fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) on male testosterone biosynthesis disruption. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2023; 0:reveh-2023-0064. [PMID: 37651650 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2023-0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to PM2.5 is the most significant air pollutant for health risk. The testosterone level in male is vulnerable to environmental toxicants. In the past, researchers focused more attention on the impacts of PM2.5 on respiratory system, cardiovascular system, and nervous system, and few researchers focused attention on the reproductive system. Recent studies have reported that PM2.5 involved in male testosterone biosynthesis disruption, which is closely associated with male reproductive health. However, the underlying mechanisms by which PM2.5 causes testosterone biosynthesis disruption are still not clear. To better understand its potential mechanisms, we based on the existing scientific publications to critically and comprehensively reviewed the role and potential mechanisms of PM2.5 that are participated in testosterone biosynthesis in male. In this review, we summarized the potential mechanisms of PM2.5 triggering the change of testosterone level in male, which involve in oxidative stress, inflammatory response, ferroptosis, pyroptosis, autophagy and mitophagy, microRNAs (miRNAs), endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification. It will provide new suggestions and ideas for prevention and treatment of testosterone biosynthesis disruption caused by PM2.5 for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaokai Zheng
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, P.R. China
| | - Nannan Zhao
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, P.R. China
| | - Xiaojun Lin
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, P.R. China
| | - Lianglin Qiu
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, P.R. China
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12
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Niu S, Cao Y, Chen R, Bedi M, Sanders AP, Ducatman A, Ng C. A State-of-the-Science Review of Interactions of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) with Renal Transporters in Health and Disease: Implications for Population Variability in PFAS Toxicokinetics. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2023; 131:76002. [PMID: 37418334 DOI: 10.1289/ehp11885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are ubiquitous in the environment and have been shown to cause various adverse health impacts. In animals, sex- and species-specific differences in PFAS elimination half-lives have been linked to the activity of kidney transporters. However, PFAS molecular interactions with kidney transporters are still not fully understood. Moreover, the impact of kidney disease on PFAS elimination remains unclear. OBJECTIVES This state-of-the-science review integrated current knowledge to assess how changes in kidney function and transporter expression from health to disease could affect PFAS toxicokinetics and identified priority research gaps that should be addressed to advance knowledge. METHODS We searched for studies that measured PFAS uptake by kidney transporters, quantified transporter-level changes associated with kidney disease status, and developed PFAS pharmacokinetic models. We then used two databases to identify untested kidney transporters that have the potential for PFAS transport based on their endogenous substrates. Finally, we used an existing pharmacokinetic model for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in male rats to explore the influence of transporter expression levels, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and serum albumin on serum half-lives. RESULTS The literature search identified nine human and eight rat kidney transporters that were previously investigated for their ability to transport PFAS, as well as seven human and three rat transporters that were confirmed to transport specific PFAS. We proposed a candidate list of seven untested kidney transporters with the potential for PFAS transport. Model results indicated PFOA toxicokinetics were more influenced by changes in GFR than in transporter expression. DISCUSSION Studies on additional transporters, particularly efflux transporters, and on more PFAS, especially current-use PFAS, are needed to better cover the role of transporters across the PFAS class. Remaining research gaps in transporter expression changes in specific kidney disease states could limit the effectiveness of risk assessment and prevent identification of vulnerable populations. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP11885.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Niu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Yuexin Cao
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ruiwen Chen
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Megha Bedi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Alison P Sanders
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Alan Ducatman
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Carla Ng
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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13
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An B, Chen P, Tao Y. The roles of membrane permeability and efflux pumps in the toxicity of bisphenol S analogues (2,4-bisphenol S and bis-(3-allyl-4-hydroxyphenyl) sulfone) to Escherichia coli K12. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 329:138697. [PMID: 37062394 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138697] [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: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol S (BPS) analogues are a group of recently reported emerging contaminants in the environment. Bacteria are important components of food webs. However, the potential risks of BPS analogues in bacteria have not been fully addressed. The toxicity effects and related mechanisms of two BPS analogues with different molecular weights (2,4-bisphenol S (2,4-BPS) and bis-(3-allyl-4-hydroxyphenyl) sulfone (TGSA)) on Escherichia coli K12 were compared. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 2,4-BPS in the wild-type of E. coli K12 was lower than that of TGSA. The membrane permeability of the wild-type increased significantly after exposed to the same concentrations (0.5-50 nmol L-1) of 2,4-BPS and TGSA. In addition, 2,4-BPS induced more significant changes in membrane permeability than TGSA. Hormetic effects of 2,4-BPS and TGSA in the wild-type strain were noted in the levels of outer membrane proteins (ompC and ompF), multidrug efflux pump acriflavine resistance B (acrB) and type II topoisomerases. Transcriptomic results indicated these two BPS analogues inhibited the function of ABC transporters. In contrast to TGSA, 2,4-BPS affected DNA replication, tricarboxylic acid cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, and inhibited energy metabolism. Compared with wild-type strain, the ΔacrB mutant strain showed enhanced susceptibility to 2,4-BPS and TGSA with their MICs reduced by 20% and 11%, respectively. Deletion of the acrB affected the growth characteristics and induced stronger oxidative stress than the wild-type strain when exposed to 2,4-BPS or TGSA. The results suggested that 2,4-BPS were more toxic to E. coli K12 than TGSA in the concentration range of 0.5-50 nmol L-1, which was supported by the evidence from their impacts on membrane permeability and efflux pumps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baihui An
- College of Oceanography, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210024, China
| | - Pengyu Chen
- College of Oceanography, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210024, China
| | - Yuqiang Tao
- College of Oceanography, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210024, China.
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14
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Zhang Y, Mustieles V, Wang YX, Sun Y, Agudelo J, Bibi Z, Torres N, Oulhote Y, Slitt A, Messerlian C. Folate concentrations and serum perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substance concentrations in adolescents and adults in the USA (National Health and Nutrition Examination Study 2003-16): an observational study. Lancet Planet Health 2023; 7:e449-e458. [PMID: 37286242 PMCID: PMC10901144 DOI: 10.1016/s2542-5196(23)00088-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a family of highly fluorinated aliphatic compounds, which are widely used in commercial applications, including food packaging, textiles, and non-stick cookware. Folate might counteract the effects of environmental chemical exposures. We aimed to explore the relationship between blood folate biomarker concentrations and PFAS concentrations. METHODS This observational study pooled cross-sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003 to 2016 cycles. NHANES is a population-based national survey that measures the health and nutritional status of the US general population every 2 years by means of questionnaires, physical examination, and biospecimen collection. Folate concentrations in red blood cells and in serum, and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), and perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS) concentrations in serum were examined. We used multivariable regression models to assess the percentage change in serum PFAS concentrations in relation to changes in folate biomarker concentrations. We additionally used models with restricted cubic splines to investigate the shape of these associations. FINDINGS This study included 2802 adolescents and 9159 adults who had complete data on PFAS concentrations, folate biomarkers, and covariates, were not pregnant, and had never had a cancer diagnosis at the time of the survey. The mean age was 15·4 years (SD 2·3) for adolescents and 45·5 years (17·5) for adults. The proportion of male participants was slightly higher in adolescents (1508 [54%] of 2802 participants) than in adults (3940 [49%] of 9159 participants). We found negative associations between red blood cell folate concentrations and serum concentrations of PFOS (percentage change for a 2·7 fold-increase in folate level -24·36%, 95% CI -33·21 to -14·34) and PFNA (-13·00%, -21·87 to -3·12) in adolescents, and PFOA (-12·45%, -17·28 to -7·35), PFOS (-25·30%, -29·67 to -20·65), PFNA (-21·65%, -26·19 to -16·82), and PFHxS (-11·70%, -17·32 to 5·70) in adults. Associations for serum folate concentrations and PFAS were in line with those found for red blood cell folate levels, although the magnitude of the effects was lower. Restricted cubic spline models suggested linearity of the observed associations, particularly for associations in adults. INTERPRETATION In this large-scale, nationally representative study, we found consistent inverse associations for most examined serum PFAS compounds in relation to folate concentrations measured in either red blood cells or serum among both adolescents and adults. These findings are supported by mechanistic in-vitro studies that show the potential of PFAS to compete with folate for several transporters implicated in PFAS toxicokinetics. If confirmed in experimental settings, these findings could have important implications for interventions to reduce the accumulated PFAS body burden and mitigate the related adverse health effects. FUNDING United States National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Vicente Mustieles
- University of Granada, Center for Biomedical Research, Granada, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria Ibs Granada, Granada, Spain; Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Yi-Xin Wang
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yang Sun
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Zainab Bibi
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nicole Torres
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Youssef Oulhote
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | | | - Carmen Messerlian
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston, MA, USA.
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15
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Tastet V, Le Vée M, Bruyère A, Fardel O. Interactions of human drug transporters with chemical additives present in plastics: Potential consequences for toxicokinetics and health. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023:121882. [PMID: 37236587 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Human membrane drug transporters are recognized as major actors of pharmacokinetics; they also handle endogenous compounds, including hormones and metabolites. Chemical additives present in plastics interact with human drug transporters, which may have consequences for the toxicokinetics and toxicity of these widely-distributed environmental and/or dietary pollutants, to which humans are highly exposed. The present review summarizes key findings about this topic. In vitro assays have demonstrated that various plastic additives, including bisphenols, phthalates, brominated flame retardants, poly-alkyl phenols and per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, can inhibit the activities of solute carrier uptake transporters and/or ATP-binding cassette efflux pumps. Some are substrates for transporters or can regulate their expression. The relatively low human concentration of plastic additives from environmental or dietary exposure is a key parameter to consider to appreciate the in vivo relevance of plasticizer-transporter interactions and their consequences for human toxicokinetics and toxicity of plastic additives, although even low concentrations of pollutants (in the nM range) may have clinical effects. Existing data about interactions of plastic additives with drug transporters remain somewhat sparse and incomplete. A more systematic characterization of plasticizer-transporter relationships is needed. The potential effects of chemical additive mixtures towards transporter activities and the identification of transporter substrates among plasticizers, as well as their interactions with transporters of emerging relevance deserve particular attention. A better understanding of the human toxicokinetics of plastic additives may help to fully integrate the possible contribution of transporters to the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of plastics-related chemicals, as well as to their deleterious effects towards human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin Tastet
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000, Rennes, France
| | - Marc Le Vée
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000, Rennes, France
| | - Arnaud Bruyère
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000, Rennes, France
| | - Olivier Fardel
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000, Rennes, France.
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16
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Barrett ES, Rivera-Núñez Z, Getz K, Ohman-Strickland P, Zhang R, Kozlosky D, Doherty CL, Buckley BT, Brunner J, Miller RK, O'Connor TG, Aleksunes LM. Protective role of the placental efflux transporter BCRP/ABCG2 in the relationship between prenatal cadmium exposure, placenta weight, and size at birth. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 225:115597. [PMID: 36863650 PMCID: PMC10091184 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Placental efflux transporter proteins, such as BCRP, reduce the placental and fetal toxicity of environmental contaminants but have received little attention in perinatal environmental epidemiology. Here, we evaluate the potential protective role of BCRP following prenatal exposure to cadmium, a metal that preferentially accumulates in the placenta and adversely impacts fetal growth. We hypothesized that individuals with a reduced function polymorphism in ABCG2, the gene encoding BCRP, would be most vulnerable to the adverse impacts of prenatal cadmium exposure, notably, smaller placental and fetal size. METHODS We measured cadmium in maternal urine samples at each trimester and in term placentas from UPSIDE-ECHO study participants (NY, USA; n = 269). We fit adjusted multivariable linear regression and generalized estimating equation models to examine log-transformed urinary and placental cadmium concentrations in relation to birthweight, birth length, placental weight, and fetoplacental weight ratio (FPR) and stratified models by ABCG2 Q141K (C421A) genotype. RESULTS Overall 17% of participants expressed the reduced-function ABCG2 C421A variant (AA or AC). Placental cadmium concentrations were inversely associated with placental weight (β = -19.55; 95%CI: -37.06, -2.04) and trended towards higher FPR (β = 0.25; 95%CI: -0.01, 0.52) with stronger associations in 421A variant infants. Notably, higher placental cadmium concentrations in 421A variant infants were associated with reduced placental weight (β = -49.42; 95%CI: 98.87, 0.03), and higher FPR (β = 0.85, 95%CI: 0.18, 1.52), while higher urinary cadmium concentration was associated with longer birth length (β = 0.98; 95%CI: 0.37, 1.59), lower ponderal index (β = -0.09; 95%CI: 0.15, -0.03), and higher FPR (β = 0.42; 95%CI: 0.14, 0.71). CONCLUSIONS Infants with reduced function ABCG2 polymorphisms may be particularly vulnerable to the developmental toxicity of cadmium as well as other xenobiotics that are BCRP substrates. Additional work examining the influence of placental transporters in environmental epidemiology cohorts is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily S Barrett
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Zorimar Rivera-Núñez
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Kylie Getz
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Biostatistics and Epidemiology Services Center, Rutgers School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Pamela Ohman-Strickland
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Ranran Zhang
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Danielle Kozlosky
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Cathleen L Doherty
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Brian T Buckley
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Jessica Brunner
- Departments of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Richard K Miller
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA; Departments of Environmental Medicine, Pathology and Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Thomas G O'Connor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA; Departments of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Lauren M Aleksunes
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
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Zhang Y, Mustieles V, Sun Q, Coull B, McElrath T, Rifas-Shiman SL, Martin L, Sun Y, Wang YX, Oken E, Cardenas A, Messerlian C. Association of Early Pregnancy Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance Exposure With Birth Outcomes. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2314934. [PMID: 37256622 PMCID: PMC10233420 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.14934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Prenatal perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been linked to adverse birth outcomes. Previous research showed that higher folate concentrations are associated with lower blood PFAS concentrations in adolescents and adults. Further studies are needed to explore whether prenatal folate status mitigates PFAS-related adverse birth outcomes. Objective To examine whether prenatal folate status modifies the negative associations between pregnancy PFAS concentrations, birth weight, and gestational age previously observed in a US cohort. Design, Setting, and Participants In a prospective design, a prebirth cohort of mothers or pregnant women was recruited between April 1999 and November 2002, in Project Viva, a study conducted in eastern Massachusetts. Statistical analyses were performed from May 24 and October 25, 2022. Exposure Plasma concentrations of 6 PFAS compounds were measured in early pregnancy (median gestational week, 9.6). Folate status was assessed through a food frequency questionnaire and measured in plasma samples collected in early pregnancy. Main Outcomes and Measures Birth weight and gestational age, abstracted from delivery records; birth weight z score, standardized by gestational age and infant sex; low birth weight, defined as birth weight less than 2500 g; and preterm birth, defined as birth at less than 37 completed gestational weeks. Results The cohort included a total of 1400 mother-singleton pairs. The mean (SD) age of the mothers was 32.21 (4.89) years. Most of the mothers were White (73.2%) and had a college degree or higher (69.1%). Early pregnancy plasma perfluorooctanoic acid concentration was associated with lower birth weight and birth weight z score only among mothers whose dietary folate intake (birth weight: β, -89.13 g; 95% CI, -166.84 to -11.42 g; birth weight z score: -0.13; 95% CI, -0.26 to -0.003) or plasma folate concentration (birth weight: -87.03 g; 95% CI, -180.11 to 6.05 g; birth weight z score: -0.14; 95% CI, -0.30 to 0.02) were below the 25th percentile (dietary: 660 μg/d, plasma: 14 ng/mL). No associations were found among mothers in the higher folate level groups, although the tests for heterogeneity did not reject the null. Associations between plasma perfluorooctane sulfonic acid and perfluorononanoate (PFNA) concentrations and lower birth weight, and between PFNA and earlier gestational age were noted only among mothers whose prenatal dietary folate intake or plasma folate concentration was in the lowest quartile range. No associations were found among mothers in higher folate status quartile groups. Conclusions and Relevance In this large, US prebirth cohort, early pregnancy exposure to select PFAS compounds was associated with adverse birth outcomes only among mothers below the 25th percentile of prenatal dietary or plasma folate levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Vicente Mustieles
- University of Granada, Center for Biomedical Research, Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria Ibs, Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health Grenada, Spain
| | - Qi Sun
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Brent Coull
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Thomas McElrath
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sheryl L. Rifas-Shiman
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Leah Martin
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Yang Sun
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Yi-Xin Wang
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Emily Oken
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Andres Cardenas
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Carmen Messerlian
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Boston
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18
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Rickard BP, Tan X, Fenton SE, Rizvi I. Photodynamic Priming Overcomes Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance (PFAS)-Induced Platinum Resistance in Ovarian Cancer †. Photochem Photobiol 2023; 99:793-813. [PMID: 36148678 PMCID: PMC10033467 DOI: 10.1111/php.13728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widespread environmental contaminants linked to adverse outcomes, including for female reproductive biology and related cancers. We recently reported, for the first time, that PFAS induce platinum resistance in ovarian cancer, potentially through altered mitochondrial function. Platinum resistance is a major barrier in the management of ovarian cancer, necessitating complementary therapeutic approaches. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a light-based treatment modality that reverses platinum resistance and synergizes with platinum-based chemotherapy. The present study is the first to demonstrate the ability of photodynamic priming (PDP), a low-dose, sub-cytotoxic variant of PDT, to overcome PFAS-induced platinum resistance. Comparative studies of PDP efficacy using either benzoporphyrin derivative (BPD) or 5-aminolevulinic acid-induced protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) were conducted in two human ovarian cancer cell lines (NIH:OVCAR-3 and Caov-3). BPD and PpIX are clinically approved photosensitizers that preferentially localize to, or are partly synthesized in, mitochondria. PDP overcomes carboplatin resistance in PFAS-exposed ovarian cancer cells, demonstrating the feasibility of this approach to target the deleterious effects of environmental contaminants. Decreased survival fraction in PDP + carboplatin treated cells was accompanied by decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, suggesting that PDP modulates the mitochondrial membrane, reducing membrane potential and re-sensitizing ovarian cancer cells to carboplatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany P. Rickard
- Curriculum in Toxicology & Environmental Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Xianming Tan
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina School of Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Suzanne E. Fenton
- Curriculum in Toxicology & Environmental Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Division of the National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Imran Rizvi
- Curriculum in Toxicology & Environmental Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Center for Environmental Health and Susceptibility, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
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19
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Rivera-Núñez Z, Kinkade CW, Khoury L, Brunner J, Murphy H, Wang C, Kannan K, Miller RK, O'Connor TG, Barrett ES. Prenatal perfluoroalkyl substances exposure and maternal sex steroid hormones across pregnancy. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 220:115233. [PMID: 36621543 PMCID: PMC9977559 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are ubiquitous and persistent environmental contaminants that may act as endocrine disruptors in utero, but the specific endocrine pathways are unknown. OBJECTIVE We examined associations between maternal serum PFAS and sex steroid hormones at three time points during pregnancy. METHODS Pregnant women participating in the Understanding Pregnancy Signals and Infant Development (UPSIDE) study contributed biospecimens, questionnaire, and medical record data in each trimester (n = 285). PFAS (including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) and perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA)) were analyzed in second-trimester serum samples by high-performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Total testosterone [TT], free testosterone [fT], estrone [E1], estradiol [E2], and estriol [E3]) were measured by LC-MS/MS in serum samples from each trimester. Linear mixed models with random intercepts were used to examine associations between log-transformed PFAS concentrations and hormone levels, adjusting for covariates, and stratifying by fetal sex. Results are presented as the mean percentage difference (Δ%) in hormone levels per ln-unit increase in PFAS concentration. RESULTS In adjusted models, PFHxS was associated with higher TT (%Δ = 20.0, 95%CI: 1.7, 41.6), particularly among women carrying male fetuses (%Δ = 15.3, 95%CI: 1.2, 30.7); this association strengthened as the pregnancy progressed. PFNA (%Δ = 7.9, 95%CI: 3.4, 12.5) and PFDA (%Δ = 7.2, 95%CI: 4.9, 9.7) were associated with higher fT, with associations again observed only in women carrying male fetuses. PFHxS was associated with higher levels of E2 and E3 in women carrying female fetuses (%Δ = 13.2, 95%CI: 0.5, 29.1; %Δ = 17.9, 95%CI: 3.2, 34.8, respectively). No associations were observed for PFOS and PFOA. CONCLUSION PFHxS, PFNA, and PFDA may disrupt androgenic and estrogenic pathways in pregnancy in a sex-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zorimar Rivera-Núñez
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
| | - Carolyn W Kinkade
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Leena Khoury
- Departments of Psychiatry, Psychology, Neuroscience, University of Rochester, NY, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Jessica Brunner
- Departments of Psychiatry, Psychology, Neuroscience, University of Rochester, NY, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Hannah Murphy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Christina Wang
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, The Lundquist Institute at Harbor -UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Kurunthachalam Kannan
- Department of Pediatrics, And Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University, Grossman School of Medicine, NY, NY, USA
| | - Richard K Miller
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Thomas G O'Connor
- Departments of Psychiatry, Psychology, Neuroscience, University of Rochester, NY, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Emily S Barrett
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
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20
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Zhang Y, Mustieles V, Wang YX, Sun Y, Slitt A, Messerlian C. Red Blood Cell Folate Modifies the Association between Serum Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Antibody Concentrations in U.S. Adolescents. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:2445-2456. [PMID: 36715557 PMCID: PMC10539038 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c07152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure has been associated with reduced antibody levels. Higher red blood cell (RBC) folate was previously associated with lower serum PFAS concentrations in adolescents. This study included 819 adolescents aged 12-19 years who had detectable rubella and measles antibody levels in serum from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003-2004 and 2009-2010 cycles. We found inverse associations between serum PFOS and PFHxS and rubella antibodies, between PFOA and mumps antibodies, and between PFAS mixtures and rubella and mumps antibodies, only among adolescents with RBC folate concentrations <66th percentile (lower folate group) while not among adolescents with higher RBC folate levels (upper folate group). Specifically, per quartile increase in serum concentrations of the total PFAS mixture was associated with a 9.84% (95% CI: -15.57%, -3.74%) decrease in rubella antibody and an 8.79% (95% CI: -14.39%, -2.82%) decrease in the mumps antibody concentrations only in the lower folate group, while null associations were found for the upper folate group. If confirmed in mechanistic studies or prospective epidemiologic studies, these findings may have important implications for using folate as a mitigation measure against immune-related PFAS effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Vicente Mustieles
- University of Granada, Center for Biomedical Research (CIBM), Spain. Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria Ibs GRANADA, Spain. Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Spain
| | - Yi-Xin Wang
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yang Sun
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Carmen Messerlian
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston, MA, USA
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21
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Wang H, Li T, Shi H, Su M, Liu Z, Zhang Y, Ma Y. Analyses of widely targeted metabolic profiling reveals mechanisms of metabolomic variations during Tibetan sheep (Ovis aries) testis development. Theriogenology 2023; 197:116-126. [PMID: 36502589 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.11.041] [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: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, the testis is the organ with the highest transcriptional activity. After gene transcription, translation, and post-translational protein modification, the transcriptional results are finally presented at the metabolic level. Metabolites not only essential for cell signaling and energy transfer, but also directly influenced by the physiological and pathological changes in tissues and accurately reflect the physiological changes. The fact that the testes are oxygen-deprived organs can explain why Sertoli cells and germ cells may use distinctive metabolic pathways to obtain energy in their different stages of development. Therefore, studying metabolic changes during testis development can better elucidate metabolic profile of the testis, which is essential to revealing characteristic metabolic pathways. The present study applied a widely targeted UPLC-MS/MS-based metabolomics approach with large-scale detection, identification and quantification to investigate the widespread metabolic changes during Tibetan sheep testis development. Firstly, a total of 847 metabolites were detected in the sheep testis, and their changes along with the three testis-development stages were further investigated. The results indicated that those metabolites were clustered into amino acids and their derivatives, carbohydrates and their derivatives, organic acids and their derivatives, benzene and substituted derivatives, alcohols and amines, lipids, nucleotides and their derivatives, bile acids, coenzymes and vitamins, hormones and hormone-related compounds, etc. Among them, the most abundant metabolites in the testis were amino acids and lipid metabolites. The results showed that most of the lipids, carbohydrates with their derivatives, as well as alcohol and amines metabolites were high in sexually immature sheep while organic acids, amino acids and nucleotides showed a continuously increasing trend along with testis development stages. Among them, the content of metabolites with antioxidant effects increased along with testis development, while those related with energy synthesis was downregulated with age. Further correlation analyses of each metabolite-metabolite pair emphasized the cross talk between differential metabolisms across testis development, suggesting a significant correlation between lipids and other metabolites. Finally, based on KEGG pathway analysis, we found that the metabolic pathways in Tibetan sheep testis development were mainly clustered into energy metabolism, gonadal development, and anti-oxidative stress. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are by-products of normal cellular metabolism and are inevitable during testicular energy metabolism. Thus, the anti-oxidative stress function is a key process in maintaining the normal physiological function of testis. These results contributed to a broader view of the testis metabolome and a comprehensive analysis on metabolomic variation among different testis-development stages, providing a theoretical basis for us to understand the sheep testis metabolic mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huihui Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, China
| | - Taotao Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, China
| | - Huibin Shi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, China
| | - Manchun Su
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, China
| | - Zilong Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, 730070, China; College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, China
| | - Youji Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, China; Gansu Key Laboratory of Animal Generational Physiology and Reproductive Regulation, Lanzhou, 730070, China.
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22
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Gundacker C, Audouze K, Widhalm R, Granitzer S, Forsthuber M, Jornod F, Wielsøe M, Long M, Halldórsson TI, Uhl M, Bonefeld-Jørgensen EC. Reduced Birth Weight and Exposure to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances: A Review of Possible Underlying Mechanisms Using the AOP-HelpFinder. TOXICS 2022; 10:toxics10110684. [PMID: 36422892 PMCID: PMC9699222 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10110684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to per- and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS) may impair fetal growth. Our knowledge of the underlying mechanisms is incomplete. We used the Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP)-helpFinder tool to search PubMed for studies published until March 2021 that examined PFAS exposure in relation to birth weight, oxidative stress, hormones/hormone receptors, or growth signaling pathways. Of these 1880 articles, 106 experimental studies remained after abstract screening. One clear finding is that PFAS are associated with oxidative stress in in vivo animal studies and in vitro studies. It appears that PFAS-induced reactive-oxygen species (ROS) generation triggers increased peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)γ expression and activation of growth signaling pathways, leading to hyperdifferentiation of pre-adipocytes. Fewer proliferating pre-adipocytes result in lower adipose tissue weight and in this way may reduce birth weight. PFAS may also impair fetal growth through endocrine effects. Estrogenic effects have been noted in in vivo and in vitro studies. Overall, data suggest thyroid-damaging effects of PFAS affecting thyroid hormones, thyroid hormone gene expression, and histology that are associated in animal studies with decreased body and organ weight. The effects of PFAS on the complex relationships between oxidative stress, endocrine system function, adipogenesis, and fetal growth should be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Gundacker
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +43-1-40160-56503
| | - Karine Audouze
- Unit T3S, Université Paris Cité, Inserm U1124, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Raimund Widhalm
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Sebastian Granitzer
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Forsthuber
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Florence Jornod
- Unit T3S, Université Paris Cité, Inserm U1124, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Maria Wielsøe
- Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Manhai Long
- Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Thórhallur Ingi Halldórsson
- Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Iceland, 102 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Department of Epidemiology Research, Statens Serum Institut, 2300 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maria Uhl
- Environment Agency Austria, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Eva Cecilie Bonefeld-Jørgensen
- Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
- Greenland Center for Health Research, Greenland University, Nuuk 3905, Greenland
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23
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Tribondeau A, Sachs LM, Buisine N. Tetrabromobisphenol A effects on differentiating mouse embryonic stem cells reveals unexpected impact on immune system. Front Genet 2022; 13:996826. [PMID: 36386828 PMCID: PMC9640982 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.996826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) is a potent flame retardant used in numerous appliances and a major pollutant in households and ecosystems. In vertebrates, it was shown to affect neurodevelopment, the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and thyroid signaling, but its toxicity and modes of actions are still a matter of debate. The molecular phenotype resulting from exposure to TBBPA is only poorly described, especially at the level of transcriptome reprogramming, which further limits our understanding of its molecular toxicity. In this work, we combined functional genomics and system biology to provide a system-wide description of the transcriptomic alterations induced by TBBPA acting on differentiating mESCs, and provide potential new toxicity markers. We found that TBBPA-induced transcriptome reprogramming affect a large collection of genes loosely connected within the network of biological pathways, indicating widespread interferences on biological processes. We also found two hotspots of action: at the level of neuronal differentiation markers, and surprisingly, at the level of immune system functions, which has been largely overlooked until now. This effect is particularly strong, as terminal differentiation markers of both myeloid and lymphoid lineages are strongly reduced: the membrane T cell receptor (Cd79a, Cd79b), interleukin seven receptor (Il7r), macrophages cytokine receptor (Csf1r), monocyte chemokine receptor (Ccr2). Also, the high affinity IgE receptor (Fcer1g), a key mediator of allergic reactions, is strongly induced. Thus, the molecular imbalance induce by TBBPA may be stronger than initially realized.
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24
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Li Z, Lin Z, Ji S, Lai KP, Wan HT, Wong CKC, Li L. Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid exposure altered hypothalamic metabolism and disturbed male fecundity. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 844:156881. [PMID: 35753445 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.156881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have examined the effects of perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) on disruption of the blood-testis barrier and spermatogenesis. Sertoli and Leydig cells were perturbed, resulting in a decrease in testosterone levels and sperm counts. However, the effects of PFOS on male fecundity are not limited to the testes. In this study, we demonstrated that oral PFOS exposure (1 μg/g BW and 5 μg/g BW) decreased the function of the Luteinizing hormone (LH)/Luteinizing hormone receptor (LHr) and decreased epididymal sperm motility. Consistently, testicular transcriptome analysis revealed that PFOS altered the expression of a cluster of genes associated with sperm motility and steroidogenesis. In mice exposed to PFOS, c-Fos immunostaining showed activation of the lateral septal nucleus (LS), paraventricular thalamus (PVT), locus coeruleus (LC), which are known to be related to anxiety-like behaviors. Metabolomic analyses of the hypothalamus revealed that exposure to PFOS perturbed the translation of proteins, as well as the biosynthesis of neurotransmitters and neuromodulators. Altogether, the activation of brain nuclei, shift of hypothalamic metabolome, and reduction of LH/LHr circuit resulted from PFOS exposure suggested the toxicant's systematic effects on male reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijie Li
- Croucher Institute for Environmental Sciences, Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China; The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Ziyi Lin
- The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Shuqin Ji
- The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Keng-Po Lai
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Integrative Omics, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Microenvironmental Regulation, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 530022, China
| | - Hin-Ting Wan
- Croucher Institute for Environmental Sciences, Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Chris Kong Chu Wong
- Croucher Institute for Environmental Sciences, Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China.
| | - Lei Li
- The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518000, China.
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25
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Bell KS, O’Shaughnessy KL. The development and function of the brain barriers - an overlooked consideration for chemical toxicity. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2022; 4:1000212. [PMID: 36329715 PMCID: PMC9622783 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2022.1000212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well known that the adult brain is protected from some infections and toxic molecules by the blood-brain and the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barriers. Contrary to the immense data collected in other fields, it is deeply entrenched in environmental toxicology that xenobiotics easily permeate the developing brain because these barriers are either absent or non-functional in the fetus and newborn. Here we review the cellular and physiological makeup of the brain barrier systems in multiple species, and discuss decades of experiments that show they possess functionality during embryogenesis. We next present case studies of two chemical classes, perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and bisphenols, and discuss their potential to bypass the brain barriers. While there is evidence to suggest these pollutants may enter the developing and/or adult brain parenchyma, many studies suffer from confounding technical variables which complicates data interpretation. In the future, a more formal consideration of brain barrier biology could not only improve understanding of chemical toxicokinetics but could assist in prioritizing environmental xenobiotics for their neurotoxicity risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiersten S. Bell
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Public Health Integrated Toxicology Division, Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States,Oak Ridge Institute for Science Education, Oak Ridge, TN, United States
| | - Katherine L. O’Shaughnessy
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Public Health Integrated Toxicology Division, Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States,*Correspondence: Katherine L. O’Shaughnessy,
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26
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Sahu C, Jena G. Dietary zinc deficient condition increases the Bisphenol A toxicity in diabetic rat testes. MUTATION RESEARCH. GENETIC TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MUTAGENESIS 2022; 882:503547. [PMID: 36155143 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2022.503547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a widely used endocrine disrupter that causes male reproductive dysfunction in humans and rodents. Diabetes-induced hyperglycemia alters spermatogenesis and antioxidant status, which negatively impacts male fertility in adults. Zinc (Zn) deficiency is a global health concern maintaining the testicular structure and functions in developing gonads. The present experiment was designed to investigate the role of Zn deficiency on BPA-induced germ cell and male gonadal toxicity in diabetic conditions. Rats were randomly divided into eight different groups - control (normal feed and water), BPA (10 mg/kg/day), ZDD (fed with a Zn-deficient diet), DIA (diabetic), BPA+ZDD, BPA+DIA, ZDD+DIA and BPA+ZDD+DIA for four weeks. Animals' body and organ weight, sperm count, motility and sperm morphology were examined; testes and epididymis histopathology were investigated. Testicular DNA damage and sperm apoptosis were evaluated by halo and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assays respectively. Testicular catalase and octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (OCT4) expressions were evaluated by western blot analysis. The present results demonstrated that dietary Zn-deficient condition significantly increased the BPA-induced testicular, epididymal and sperm toxicity in diabetic rats due to hypogonadism, increased sperm abnormalities, epididymis, testicular structure and DNA damages, sperm apoptosis as well as decreased testicular catalase and OCT4 expressions. The present results revealed that dietary Zn-deficient condition exacerbated the BPA-induced testicular and epididymal toxicity as well as perturbed the general male reproductive health in diabetic rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chittaranjan Sahu
- Facility for Risk Assessment and Intervention Studies, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, S.A.S Nagar, Punjab 160062, India.
| | - Gopabandhu Jena
- Facility for Risk Assessment and Intervention Studies, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, S.A.S Nagar, Punjab 160062, India.
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27
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Kozlosky D, Barrett E, Aleksunes LM. Regulation of Placental Efflux Transporters during Pregnancy Complications. Drug Metab Dispos 2022; 50:1364-1375. [PMID: 34992073 PMCID: PMC9513846 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.121.000449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta is essential for regulating the exchange of solutes between the maternal and fetal circulations. As a result, the placenta offers support and protection to the developing fetus by delivering crucial nutrients and removing waste and xenobiotics. ATP-binding cassette transporters, including multidrug resistance protein 1, multidrug resistance-associated proteins, and breast cancer resistance protein, remove chemicals through active efflux and are considered the primary transporters within the placental barrier. Altered transporter expression at the barrier could result in fetal exposure to chemicals and/or accumulation of xenobiotics within trophoblasts. Emerging data demonstrate that expression of these transporters is changed in women with pregnancy complications, suggesting potentially compromised integrity of placental barrier function. The purpose of this review is to summarize the regulation of placental efflux transporters during medical complications of pregnancy, including 1) placental inflammation/infection and chorioamnionitis, 2) hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, 3) metabolic disorders including gestational diabetes and obesity, and 4) fetal growth restriction/altered fetal size for gestational age. For each disorder, we review the basic pathophysiology and consider impacts on the expression and function of placental efflux transporters. Mechanisms of transporter dysregulation and implications for fetal drug and toxicant exposure are discussed. Understanding how transporters are up- or downregulated during pathology is important in assessing possible exposures of the fetus to potentially harmful chemicals in the environment as well as the disposition of novel therapeutics intended to treat placental and fetal diseases. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Diseases of pregnancy are associated with reduced expression of placental barrier transporters that may impact fetal pharmacotherapy and exposure to dietary and environmental toxicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Kozlosky
- Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology (D.K.) and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy (D.K., L.M.A.), Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Piscataway, New Jersey (E.B., L.M.A.); Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey (E.B.); and Center for Lipid Research, New Jersey Institute for Food, Nutrition, and Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey (L.M.A.)
| | - Emily Barrett
- Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology (D.K.) and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy (D.K., L.M.A.), Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Piscataway, New Jersey (E.B., L.M.A.); Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey (E.B.); and Center for Lipid Research, New Jersey Institute for Food, Nutrition, and Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey (L.M.A.)
| | - Lauren M Aleksunes
- Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology (D.K.) and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy (D.K., L.M.A.), Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Piscataway, New Jersey (E.B., L.M.A.); Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey (E.B.); and Center for Lipid Research, New Jersey Institute for Food, Nutrition, and Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey (L.M.A.)
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28
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Gao Z, Liu S, Tan L, Gao X, Fan W, Ding C, Li M, Tang Z, Shi X, Luo Y, Song S. Testicular toxicity of bisphenol compounds: Homeostasis disruption of cholesterol/testosterone via PPARα activation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 836:155628. [PMID: 35504394 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The widespread application of bisphenols (BPs) has made them ubiquitous in the environment. Although the side effects of bisphenol A (BPA) substitutes have received increasing attention, studies on their reproductive toxicity remain lacking. In this research, the effects of BPA and its substitutes, including bisphenol S (BPS), bisphenol F (BPF), and bisphenol AF (BPAF), on the male reproductive system were evaluated. Results proved that these BPs disturbed germ cell proliferation, induced germ cell apoptosis, and perturbed sperm physiologies and spermatogenesis, which resulted from the disruption of testosterone (T) biosynthesis in Leydig cells (LCs). Importantly, in vitro and in vivo studies indicated that the exhausted cholesterol in LCs accounted for the reduced T production. Furthermore, the knockdown of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) remarkably ameliorated the downregulation of cholesterogenesis-related genes (i.e., Hmgcs1, Hmgcr, and Srebf2), indicating that PPARα played a critical role in BPs-induced testicular dysfunction. Overall, our studies indicated that BPS, BPF, and BPAF could induce testicular toxic effects similar to that of BPA, which were associated with the PPARα pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhangshan Gao
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Shuhui Liu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Lei Tan
- Administration for Market Regulation of Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Supervision for Edible Agricultural Products, Shenzhen Centre of Inspection and Testing for Agricultural Products, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Xiaona Gao
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, Jiangsu Province, China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Wentao Fan
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Chenchen Ding
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Mengcong Li
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhihui Tang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xizhi Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Yan Luo
- Administration for Market Regulation of Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Supervision for Edible Agricultural Products, Shenzhen Centre of Inspection and Testing for Agricultural Products, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Suquan Song
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Shen Y, You Y, Zhu K, Fang C, Yu X, Chang D. Bibliometric and visual analysis of blood-testis barrier research. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:969257. [PMID: 36071829 PMCID: PMC9441755 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.969257] [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: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Extensive research on the blood-testis barrier has been undertaken in recent years. However, no systematic bibliometric study has been conducted on this subject. Our research aimed to identify the hotspots and frontiers of blood-testis barrier research and to serve as a guide for future scientific research and decision-making in the field.Methods: Studies on the blood-testis barrier were found in the Web of Science Core Collection. VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and Microsoft Excel were used to conduct the bibliometric and visual analyses.Results: We found 942 blood-testis barrier studies published in English between 1992 and 2022. The number of annual publications and citations increased significantly between 2011 and 2022, notably in the United States. China and the United States, the US Population Council, Endocrinology, and Cheng C. Yan were the most productive countries, institution, journal, and author, respectively. The study keywords indicated that blood-testis barrier research involves a variety of compositional features (tight junctions, cytoskeleton, adherens junctions), cell types (Sertoli cells, germ cells, Leydig cells, stem cells), reproductive toxicity (cadmium, nanoparticles, bisphenol-a), and relevant mechanisms (spermatogenesis, apoptosis, oxidative stress, dynamics, inflammation, immune privilege).Conclusion: The composition and molecular processes of the blood-testis barrier as well as the blood-testis barrier in male infertility patients are the primary research hotspots in this field. In addition, future research will likely focus on treatment and the development of novel medications that target signal pathways in oxidative stress and apoptosis to preserve the blood-testis barrier. Further studies must extend to clinical diagnosis and therapy.
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Tang Y, Ying Y, Zou C, Yan H, Wang Y, Li H, Li X, Xu Z, Lv J, Ge RS. Leydig cell function in adult male rats is disrupted by perfluorotetradecanoic acid through increasing oxidative stress and apoptosis. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2022; 37:1790-1802. [PMID: 35385208 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorotetradecanoic acid (PFTeDA) is a long-chain perfluoroalkyl compound with increased applications. Its effect on Leydig cell function and its underlying mechanism remain unclear. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (60 days old) were gavaged with PFTeDA at doses of 0, 1, 5, and 10 mg/kg/day from 60 to 87 days after birth. PFTeDA significantly reduced serum testosterone levels at 1 mg/kg and higher doses, while markedly increasing serum luteinizing hormone level at 10 mg/kg and follicle-stimulating hormone at ≥1 mg/kg. PFTeDA significantly reduced the sperm number at the cauda of epididymis at ≥1 mg/kg. PFTeDA also reduced the number of CYP11A1-positive Leydig cells due to increased apoptosis shown by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. PFTeDA significantly repressed the expression of Cyp17a1 and Star and their proteins at 1-10 mg/kg, while it increased the expression of Srd5a1 and its protein (an immature Leydig cell biomarker) at 10 mg/kg. PFTeDA markedly increased testicular malondialdehyde level, while inhibiting antioxidants (SOD1, SOD2, and CAT), triggering oxidative stress, thereby further inducing BAX and CASP3 while inhibiting BCL2, which led to cell apoptosis. PFTeDA also reduced DHH level secreted by Sertoli cells, which indirectly affected Leydig cell function. PFTeDA inhibited testosterone secretion in primary Leydig cells in vitro by increasing reactive oxygen species and inducing apoptosis at 50 μM. In conclusion, PFTeDA inhibits the function of Leydig cells by inducing oxidative stress and subsequently stimulating cell apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunbing Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yingfen Ying
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Cheng Zou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haoni Yan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yiyan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huitao Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoheng Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhangye Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jieqiang Lv
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Ducatman A, LaPier J, Fuoco R, DeWitt JC. Official health communications are failing PFAS-contaminated communities. Environ Health 2022; 21:51. [PMID: 35538533 PMCID: PMC9092686 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-022-00857-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental health agencies are critical sources of information for communities affected by chemical contamination. Impacted residents and their healthcare providers often turn to federal and state agency webpages, fact sheets, and other documents to weigh exposure risks and interventions. MAIN BODY This commentary briefly reviews scientific evidence concerning per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) for health outcomes that concern members of affected communities and that have compelling or substantial yet differing degree of scientific evidence. It then features official documents in their own language to illustrate communication gaps, as well as divergence from scientific evidence and from best health communication practice. We found official health communications mostly do not distinguish between the needs of heavily contaminated communities characterized by high body burdens and the larger population with ubiquitous but substantially smaller exposures. Most health communications do not distinguish levels of evidence for health outcomes and overemphasize uncertainty, dismissing legitimate reasons for concern in affected communities. Critically, few emphasize helpful approaches to interventions. We also provide examples that can be templates for improvement. CONCLUSIONS Immediate action should be undertaken to review and improve official health communications intended to inform the public and health providers about the risks of PFAS exposure and guide community and medical decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Ducatman
- School of Public Health, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA.
| | - Jonas LaPier
- Green Science Policy Institute, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Jamie C DeWitt
- Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
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Hafey MJ, Aleksunes LM, Bridges CC, Brouwer KR, Chien HC, Leslie EM, Hu S, Li Y, Shen J, Sparreboom A, Sprowl J, Tweedie D, Lai Y. Transporters and Toxicity: Insights from the International Transporter Consortium Workshop 4. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2022; 112:527-539. [PMID: 35546260 DOI: 10.1002/cpt.2638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Over the last decade, significant progress been made in elucidating the role of membrane transporters in altering drug disposition, with important toxicological consequences due to changes in localized concentrations of compounds. The topic of "Transporters and Toxicity" was recently highlighted as a scientific session at the International Transporter Consortium (ITC) Workshop 4 in 2021. The current white paper is not intended to be an extensive review on the topic of transporters and toxicity but an opportunity to highlight aspects of the role of transporters in various toxicities with clinically relevant implications as covered during the session. This includes a review of the role of solute carrier transporters in anticancer drug-induced organ injury, transporters as key players in organ barrier function, and the role of transporters in metal/metalloid toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Hafey
- ADME and Discovery Toxicology, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Lauren M Aleksunes
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Christy C Bridges
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Mercer University School of Medicine, Macon, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Huan-Chieh Chien
- Pharmacokinetics and Drug Metabolism, Amgen, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Elaine M Leslie
- Departments of Physiology and Lab Med and Path, Membrane Protein Disease Research Group, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Shuiying Hu
- Division of Outcomes and Translational Sciences, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Yang Li
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Jinshan Shen
- Relay Therapeutics, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alex Sparreboom
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Jason Sprowl
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | | | - Yurong Lai
- Drug Metabolism, Gilead Sciences Inc., Foster City, California, USA
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Hu D, Tian L, Li X, Chen Y, Xu Z, Ge RS, Wang Y. Tetramethyl bisphenol a inhibits leydig cell function in late puberty by inducing ferroptosis. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2022; 236:113515. [PMID: 35427877 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.113515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Tetramethyl bisphenol A (TMBPA) is a commonly used bisphenol analog, used as a fire retardant. However, whether it inhibits the function of Leydig cells in late puberty remains unclear. In this study, 35-day-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were gavaged with 0, 10, 100, and 200 mg/kg body weight TMBPA for 21 days. TMBPA significantly reduced serum testosterone levels at 10 mg/kg and higher doses without altering serum luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone levels. TMBPA significantly increased serum iron concentraion while reducing the ratio of serum glutathione (GSH) and GSH/GSSG (oxidized glutathione disulfide). In addition, TMBPA significantly increased testicular iron amount at 10 mg/kg and higher doses and malondialdehyde level at 200 mg/kg. TMBPA down-regulated the expression of Leydig cell genes, including Nr5a1, Star, Scarb1, Insl3, Cyp11a1, Cyp17a1, Hsd17b3, and Hsd11b1, and their proteins. In addition, TMBPA markedly down-regulated the expression of genes in the ferroptosis pathway (Tp53, Slc7a11, Sod1, Sod2, Cat, Sqstm1, Keap1, and Hmox1). TMBPA significantly reduced the levels of ferroptosis pathway proteins (TP53, SLC7A11, GPX4, SQSTM1, KEAP1, NRF2, and HMOX1) in Leydig cells in vivo. Immature and adult Leydig cell culture in vitro also showed that TMBPA significantly reduced testosterone concentrations in the medium, which can be reversed by a ferroptosis inhibitor. After 24 h of culture in primary Leydig cells at 10 and 50 μM, TMBPA significantly induced reactive oxygen species and lowered the mitochondrial membrane potential. TMBPA also altered protein levels in the ferroptosis pathway in Leydig cells in vitro. In conclusion, TMBPA directly inhibits the activity of rat Leydig cell steroidogenic enzymes and induces the ferroptosis of Leydig cells, thereby inhibiting the testosterone synthesis of Leydig cells in the late puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dichao Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lili Tian
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xueyun Li
- Department of pathology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yirui Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zheqing Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Yiyan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Sunday OE, Bin H, Guanghua M, Yao C, Zhengjia Z, Xian Q, Xiangyang W, Weiwei F. Review of the environmental occurrence, analytical techniques, degradation and toxicity of TBBPA and its derivatives. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 206:112594. [PMID: 34973196 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BFRs (brominated flame retardants) are a class of compounds that are added to or applied to polymeric materials to avoid or reduce the spread of fire. Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) is one of the known BFR used many in industries today. Due to its wide application as an additive flame retardant in commodities, TBBPA has become a common indoor contaminant. Recent researches have raised concerns about the possible hazardous effect of exposure to TBBPA and its derivatives in humans and wildlife. This review gives a thorough assessment of the literature on TBBPA and its derivatives, as well as environmental levels and human exposure. Several analytical techniques/methods have been developed for sensitive and accurate analysis of TBBPA and its derivatives in different compartments. These chemicals have been detected in practically every environmental compartment globally, making them a ubiquitous pollutant. TBBPA may be subject to adsorption, biological degradation or photolysis, photolysis after being released into the environment. Treatment of TBBPA-containing waste, as well as manufacturing and usage regulations, can limit the release of these chemicals to the environment and the health hazards associated with its exposure. Several methods have been successfully employed for the treatment of TBBPA including but not limited to adsorption, ozonation, oxidation and anaerobic degradation. Previous studies have shown that TBBPA and its derivative cause a lot of toxic effects. Diet and dust ingestion and have been identified as the main routes of TBBPA exposure in the general population, according to human exposure studies. Toddlers are more vulnerable than adults to be exposed to indoor dust through inadvertent ingestion. Furthermore, TBBP-A exposure can occur during pregnancy and through breast milk. This review will go a long way in closing up the knowledge gap on the silent and over ignored deadly effects of TBBPA and its derivatives and their attendant consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Okeke Emmanuel Sunday
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 212013, PR China; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences & Natural Science Unit, SGS, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, 410001, Enugu State, Nigeria
| | - Huang Bin
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 212013, PR China
| | - Mao Guanghua
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 212013, PR China
| | - Chen Yao
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 212013, PR China
| | - Zeng Zhengjia
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 212013, PR China
| | - Qian Xian
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 212013, PR China
| | - Wu Xiangyang
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 212013, PR China.
| | - Feng Weiwei
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 212013, PR China.
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Malinowski D, Grzegółkowski P, Piotrowska K, Słojewski M, Droździk M. Membrane Transporters and Carriers in Human Seminal Vesicles. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11082213. [PMID: 35456310 PMCID: PMC9029209 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11082213] [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: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Seminal vesicles play an important role in the male reproductive system, producing seminal fluid and thus adequate environment for sperm. However, mechanisms underlying secretory functions of the seminal vesicles’ epithelium have not been defined yet. The aim of the present study was to characterize expression and immunolocalization of selected membrane transporters and carriers in the seminal vesicles. The study included biopsy specimens collected from non-affected parts of seminal vesicles from 53 patients of Caucasian origin subjected for prostatectomy. RT-PCR was used to define expression of 15 genes coding for ABC-family and 37 genes encoding 37 SLC-family transporters/carriers. Immunohistochemistry was used to define localization of 6 transporters. In the seminal vesicles, the following membrane transporters and carriers were defined: ABCA1, ABCB1, ABCB5, ABCB6, ABCC1, ABCC2, ABCC3, ABCC4, ABCC5, ABCC6, ABCG2, SLC01C1, SLC02B1, SLC04A1, SLC04C1, SLC10A1, SLC15A1, SLC15A2, SLC16A1, SLC16A3, SLC19A1, SLC22A1, SLC22A3, SLC22A11, SLC22A18, SLC22A4, SLC22A5, SLC28A1, SLC2A9, SLC33A1, SLC47A1, SLC47A2, SLC51A, SLC51B, SLC7A5, SLC7A6. Age-dependent expression was evidenced for ABCB1, ABCG2, SLC04C1, SLC15A1, SLC16A1, SLC22A11, SLC22A18, SLC47A1 and SLC47A2. ABCG2, P-gp, MRP1, MRP3, MCT1 and LAT1 were localized in the apical membrane and P-gp in the basolateral membrane of the seminal vesicle epithelium. The expression of the membrane transporters and carriers in the seminal vesicle epithelium confirms its secretory and barrier functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damian Malinowski
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Paweł Grzegółkowski
- Department of Urology, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (P.G.); (M.S.)
| | - Katarzyna Piotrowska
- Department of Physiology, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Marcin Słojewski
- Department of Urology, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (P.G.); (M.S.)
| | - Marek Droździk
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-91-4661589; Fax: +48-91-4661600
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Denuzière A, Ghersi-Egea JF. Cerebral concentration and toxicity of endocrine disrupting chemicals: The implication of blood-brain interfaces. Neurotoxicology 2022; 91:100-118. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2022.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Bangma J, Guillette TC, Bommarito PA, Ng C, Reiner JL, Lindstrom AB, Strynar MJ. Understanding the dynamics of physiological changes, protein expression, and PFAS in wildlife. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 159:107037. [PMID: 34896671 PMCID: PMC8802192 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.107037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) accumulation and elimination in both wildlife and humans is largely attributed to PFAS interactions with proteins, including but not limited to organic anion transporters (OATs), fatty acid binding proteins (FABPs), and serum proteins such as albumin. In wildlife, changes in the biotic and abiotic environment (e.g. salinity, temperature, reproductive stage, and health status) often lead to dynamic and responsive physiological changes that alter the prevalence and location of many proteins, including PFAS-related proteins. Therefore, we hypothesize that if key PFAS-related proteins are impacted as a result of environmentally induced as well as biologically programmed physiological changes (e.g. reproduction), then PFAS that associate with those proteins will also be impacted. Changes in tissue distribution across tissues of PFAS due to these dynamics may have implications for wildlife studies where these chemicals are measured in biological matrices (e.g., serum, feathers, eggs). For example, failure to account for factors contributing to PFAS variability in a tissue may result in exposure misclassification as measured concentrations may not reflect average exposure levels. The goal of this review is to share general information with the PFAS research community on what biotic and abiotic changes might be important to consider when designing and interpreting a biomonitoring or an ecotoxicity based wildlife study. This review will also draw on parallels from the epidemiological discipline to improve study design in wildlife research. Overall, understanding these connections between biotic and abiotic environments, dynamic protein levels, PFAS levels measured in wildlife, and epidemiology serves to strengthen study design and study interpretation and thus strengthen conclusions derived from wildlife studies for years to come.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - T C Guillette
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Oak Ridge, TN, USA
| | - Paige A Bommarito
- Epidemiology Branch, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, 111 T.W. Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Carla Ng
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jessica L Reiner
- Chemical Sciences Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 331 Fort Johnson Rd, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Andrew B Lindstrom
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 109 T.W. Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Mark J Strynar
- Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 109 T.W. Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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Panner Selvam MK, Sikka SC. Role of endocrine disruptors in male infertility and impact of COVID-19 on male reproduction. REPRODUCTIVE AND DEVELOPMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2022. [PMCID: PMC8864147 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-89773-0.00059-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Several epidemiological studies suggest strong association of endocrine disruptors (EDs) with impaired male reproduction. High levels of polychlorinated biphenyls in serum are associated with low sperm count and poor fertility. A high dichloro diphenyl trichloroethane (DDT) concentration results in low serum testosterone (T) and poor semen quality. DDT stimulates estrogen production by acting as estrogen receptor agonist and potent androgen receptor antagonist. Phthalates, another group of EDs, induce seminiferous tubule degeneration with impaired spermatogenesis via disruption of gene expression that regulates cholesterol and lipid homeostasis resulting in low T. Bisphenol A, a strong exogenous estrogen with antiandrogen effect, lowers serum follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and T, resulting in impaired development of seminiferous tubules and spermatogenesis. Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalates can exert their antiandrogenic action by directly inhibiting testosterone biosynthesis via cytochrome P-450 dysfunction. Since these EDs are commonly found in plastic bottles, cosmetics, pesticides, some metal food cans, etc., and accumulate in the environment, it is very important to observe caution and avoid their exposure. This updated chapter also reviews the impact of COVID-19-related infection on male reproduction.
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Karacaoğlu E. Flusilazole-induced damage to SerW3 cells via cytotoxicity, oxidative stress and lipid metabolism: An in vitro study. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 180:104998. [PMID: 34955182 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2021.104998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Flusilazole (C16H15F2N3Si) is a triazole fungicide and it is being used widely in recent years to control fungal infections in various fruits and vegetables. This study aims to evaluate the impact of flusilazole on cytotoxicity, ATP-dependent cassette transporter proteins (ABC transporter proteins) in SerW3 cells. In this study, SerW3 cells have administrated with 25, 100, and 200 μM flusilazole, cell viability was performed. The quantity of the cellular lipids was evaluated spectrophotometrically. Moreover, the expression of the ABCA1 and ABCB1 proteins determined by immunofluorescence microscopy. Furtherly, evaluation of the cell death type and measurement of the activity of the antioxidant enzymes was performed. According to the results, flusilazole treatment gave rise to inhibition in cell viability, increase in apoptotic cell number, reduction in cellular lipids, and inhibition in the expression of ABCA1 and ABCB1 proteins. Furthermore, it caused decreases in antioxidant enzyme activities. It may be concluded that flusilazole administration may cause infertility/subfertility. The mechanism of action can be due to cytotoxicity, impairment of the detoxification mechanisms, lipid metabolism, and dysregulation of cell functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elif Karacaoğlu
- Hacettepe University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, 06800, Beytepe, Ankara, Turkey.
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Cao Y, Chen Z, Zhang M, Shi L, Qin S, Lv D, Li D, Ma L, Zhang Y. Maternal exposure to bisphenol A induces fetal growth restriction via upregulating the expression of estrogen receptors. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 287:132244. [PMID: 34537452 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.132244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) accumulation in the placenta leads to fetal growth restriction (FGR). Here we aimed to explore the effect and the underlying mechanism of BPA exposure on fetal development. ELISA was performed to measure estrogen levels in human placenta and BeWo cells. qRT-PCR and Western blotting were conducted to determine the expression of estrogen receptors (ERs), breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), the key enzymes for ER synthesis, and DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs). Bisulfite-sequencing PCR analysis was performed to measure CpG methylation in ER genes. Flow cytometry was used to examine cell apoptosis. We found that human FGR placentae had significantly increased BPA and estrogen levels and decreased BCRP levels compared with healthy placentae. BPA downregulated BCRP expression via ERs, and BCRP silencing promoted ER expression in BeWo cells. Compared with vehicle treatment, BPA treatment significantly enhanced the expression of key enzymes for estrogen synthesis and ERs in BeWo cells. BPA treatment inhibited CpG methylation in ER genes, along with downregulated DNMT1 expression and upregulated DNMT3a and DNMT3b expression. BPA treatment significantly promoted BeWo cell apoptosis compared with vehicle treatment. Importantly, ER inhibitor ICI-182780 significantly reversed all the BPA-induced effects on BeWo cells. In conclusion, BPA promotes estrogen production and cell apoptosis in BeWo cells via upregulating ER expression, leading to FGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuming Cao
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China; Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China; Clinical Medicine Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Zhenlie Chen
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China; Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China; Clinical Medicine Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China; Clinical Medicine Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Lei Shi
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Songling Qin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Dan Lv
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Danyang Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Ling Ma
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China; Clinical Medicine Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China.
| | - Yuanzhen Zhang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China; Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China; Clinical Medicine Research Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China.
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Cao Y, Ng C. Absorption, distribution, and toxicity of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the brain: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2021; 23:1623-1640. [PMID: 34533150 DOI: 10.1039/d1em00228g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of synthetic chemicals colloquially known as "forever chemicals" because of their high persistence. PFAS have been detected in the blood, liver, kidney, heart, muscle and brain of various species. Although brain is not a dominant tissue for PFAS accumulation compared to blood and liver, adverse effects of PFAS on brain functions have been identified. Here, we review studies related to the absorption, accumulation, distribution and toxicity of PFAS in the brain. We summarize evidence on two potential mechanisms of PFAS entering the brain: initiating blood-brain barrier (BBB) disassembly through disrupting tight junctions and relying on transporters located at the BBB. PFAS with diverse structures and properties enter and accumulate in the brain with varying efficiencies. Compared to long-chain PFAS, short-chain PFAS may not cross cerebral barriers effectively. According to biomonitoring studies and PFAS exposure experiments, PFAS can accumulate in the brain of humans and wildlife species. With respect to the distribution of PFAS in specific brain regions, the brain stem, hippocampus, hypothalamus, pons/medulla and thalamus are dominant for PFAS accumulation. The accumulation and distribution of PFAS in the brain may lead to toxic effects in the central nervous system (CNS), including PFAS-induced behavioral and cognitive disorders. The specific mechanisms underlying such PFAS-induced neurotoxicity remain to be explored, but two major potential mechanisms based on current understanding are PFAS effects on calcium homeostasis and neurotransmitter alterations in neurons. Based on the information available about PFAS uptake, accumulation, distribution and impacts on the brain, PFAS have the potential to enter and accumulate in the brain at varying levels. The balance of existing studies shows there is some indication of risk in animals, while the human evidence is mixed and warrants further scrutiny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuexin Cao
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA.
| | - Carla Ng
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA.
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
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Odland SU, Ravna AW, Smaglyukova N, Dietrichs ES, Sager G. Inhibition of ABCC5-mediated cGMP transport by progesterone, testosterone and their analogues. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 213:105951. [PMID: 34271023 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2021.105951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The biodynamics and biokinetics of sex hormones are complex. In addition to the classical steroid receptors (nuclear receptors), these hormones act through several non-genomic mechanisms. Modulation of ABC-transporters by progesterone represents a non-genomic mechanism. In the present study, we employed inside out vesicles from human erythrocytes to characterize high affinity cGMP transport by ABCC5 (member 5 of the ATP-Binding Cassette subfamily C). Progesterone and testosterone inhibited the transport with respective Ki of 1.2 ± 0.3 and 2.0 ± 0.6 μmol/L. We used virtual ligand screening (VLS) to identify analogues to progesterone and testosterone. A large number of substances were screened in silico and the 19 most promising candidates were screened in vitro. Each substance was tested for a concentration of 10 μmol/L. The range of cGMP transport reduction was 21.5% to 86.2% for progesterone analogues and 8.6% to 93.8 % for testosterone analogues. Three of the most potent test compounds (TC) of each analogue class, in addition to progesterone and testosterone, were characterized for concentrations from 1 nanomol/L to 1 mmol/L. The progesterone analogues showed following Ki-values (μmol/L): TC-08: 0.61, TC-16: 0.66 and TC-15: 9.3. The Ki-values (μmol/L) for the testosterone analogues were: TC-18: 0.10, TC-07: 0.67 andTC-05: 2.0. The present study shows that VLS may be a versatile tool in the development of membrane transport modulating agents (MTMAs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sondre Ulstein Odland
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway; AJ Vaccines A/S Artillerivej 5, 2300, Copenhagen S, Denmark(1)
| | - Aina Westrheim Ravna
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Natalia Smaglyukova
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Erik Sveberg Dietrichs
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway; Centre for Psychopharmacology, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Georg Sager
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.
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Bisphenol A Inhibits the Transporter Function of the Blood-Brain Barrier by Directly Interacting with the ABC Transporter Breast Cancer Resistance Protein (BCRP). Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115534. [PMID: 34073890 PMCID: PMC8197233 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) is an important efflux transporter in the blood-brain barrier (BBB), protecting the brain from a wide range of substances. In this study, we investigated if BCRP function is affected by bisphenol A (BPA), a high production volume chemical used in common consumer products, as well as by bisphenol F (BPF) and bisphenol S (BPS), which are used to substitute BPA. We employed a transwell-based in vitro cell model of iPSC-derived brain microvascular endothelial cells, where BCRP function was assessed by measuring the intracellular accumulation of its substrate Hoechst 33342. Additionally, we used in silico modelling to predict if the bisphenols could directly interact with BCRP. Our results showed that BPA significantly inhibits the transport function of BCRP. Additionally, BPA was predicted to bind to the cavity that is targeted by known BCRP inhibitors. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that BPA inhibits BCRP function in vitro, probably by direct interaction with the transporter. This effect might contribute to BPA’s known impact on neurodevelopment.
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Peillex C, Kerever A, Lachhab A, Pelletier M. Bisphenol A, bisphenol S and their glucuronidated metabolites modulate glycolysis and functional responses of human neutrophils. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 196:110336. [PMID: 33091430 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.110336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) and its main substitute, bisphenol S (BPS), are synthetic organic compounds found in various consumer products, in particular food and beverage containers. Numerous reports have shown a link between bisphenol exposure, human contamination and increased health problems. BPA, BPS and their metabolites are detectable in bodily fluids (blood, urine) and were reported to affect immune cells and their responses. Though, the impact of those chemicals on neutrophils, the most abundant leukocytes in the circulation, remains poorly described. Therefore, we examined the effects of BPA, BPS and their monoglucuronide conjugates on neutrophil energy metabolism and anti-microbial functions, mainly phagocytosis, superoxide anion generation and CXCL8/IL-8 chemokine production. We observed that short and prolonged exposures of neutrophils to these chemicals modulate the basal and the bacterium-derived peptide N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine-induced glycolysis, with BPS causing the most alterations. The variation in energy metabolism was not associated with dysfunctions in cell cytotoxicity, phagocytosis, nor superoxide anion production upon exposure to bisphenols. In contrast, bisphenols significantly reduced the production of CXCL8/IL-8 by neutrophils, an effect found to be greater with the glucuronidated metabolites. Our study highlights that BPA, BPS and their glucuronidated metabolites alter the energy metabolism and certain anti-microbial responses of neutrophils, with possible health implications. Importantly, we found that BPS and the glucuronidated metabolites of BPA and BPS showed higher endocrine-disrupting potential than BPA. More studies on bisphenols, especially the less-documented BPS and bisphenol metabolites, are needed to fully determine their risks, allow better regulation of these compounds, and restrict their extensive usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Peillex
- Infectious and Immune Disease Axis, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Québec, Canada; Master de Biologie, École Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon I, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France; ARThrite Research Center, Laval University, Québec, Canada
| | - Anthony Kerever
- Infectious and Immune Disease Axis, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Québec, Canada
| | - Asmaa Lachhab
- Infectious and Immune Disease Axis, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Québec, Canada; ARThrite Research Center, Laval University, Québec, Canada
| | - Martin Pelletier
- Infectious and Immune Disease Axis, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Québec, Canada; ARThrite Research Center, Laval University, Québec, Canada; Department of Microbiology-Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec, Canada.
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Witek P, Enguita FJ, Grzesiak M, Costa MC, Gabriel A, Koziorowski M, Slomczynska M, Knapczyk-Stwora K. Effects of neonatal exposure to methoxychlor on corpus luteum in gilts: A transcriptomic analysis. Mol Reprod Dev 2021; 88:238-248. [PMID: 33655673 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of neonatal exposure to methoxychlor (MXC), a synthetic organochlorine used as an insecticide with estrogenic, antiestrogenic, and antiandrogenic activities, on luteal function in pigs. Piglets were injected subcutaneously with MXC (20 μg/kg body weight) or corn oil (control) between postnatal Days 1 and 10 (N = 5/group). Corpora lutea from sexually mature gilts were examined for luteal steroid and prostaglandin concentrations and processed for total RNA isolation and subsequent RNA sequencing. Intra-luteal concentrations of androstenedione and prostaglandin E2 were greater, while that of estrone was lower when compared to control. Fifty-three differentially expressed (DE) microRNAS (miRNAs) (p-adjusted <.05 and log2(fold change) ≥.5) and 359 DE genes (p-adjusted <.05 and log2(fold change) ≥1) were identified in luteal tissue in response to neonatal MXC treatment. MXC was found to affect the expression of genes related to lipogenesis, steroidogenesis, membrane transport, immune response, cell signaling and adhesion. These results suggest an earlier onset of structural luteolysis in pigs caused by MXC actions in neonates. Since negative correlation analysis showed the potential interactions of miRNAs with specific messenger RNAs, we propose that these miRNAs are potential mediators of the long-term MXC effect on the CL function in pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrycja Witek
- Department of Endocrinology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Francisco J Enguita
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Malgorzata Grzesiak
- Department of Endocrinology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Marina C Costa
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - André Gabriel
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Marek Koziorowski
- Department of Physiology and Reproduction of Animals, Institute of Biotechnology, University of Rzeszow, Kolbuszowa, Poland
| | - Maria Slomczynska
- Department of Endocrinology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
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Nicklisch SC, Hamdoun A. Disruption of small molecule transporter systems by Transporter-Interfering Chemicals (TICs). FEBS Lett 2020; 594:4158-4185. [PMID: 33222203 PMCID: PMC8112642 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Small molecule transporters (SMTs) in the ABC and SLC families are important players in disposition of diverse endo- and xenobiotics. Interactions of environmental chemicals with these transporters were first postulated in the 1990s, and since validated in numerous in vitro and in vivo scenarios. Recent results on the co-crystal structure of ABCB1 with the flame-retardant BDE-100 demonstrate that a diverse range of man-made and natural toxic molecules, hereafter termed transporter-interfering chemicals (TICs), can directly bind to SMTs and interfere with their function. TIC-binding modes mimic those of substrates, inhibitors, modulators, inducers, and possibly stimulants through direct and allosteric mechanisms. Similarly, the effects could directly or indirectly agonize, antagonize or perhaps even prime the SMT system to alter transport function. Importantly, TICs are distinguished from drugs and pharmaceuticals that interact with transporters in that exposure is unintended and inherently variant. Here, we review the molecular mechanisms of environmental chemical interaction with SMTs, the methodological considerations for their evaluation, and the future directions for TIC discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sascha C.T. Nicklisch
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616
| | - Amro Hamdoun
- Center for Marine Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0202
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Bangma J, Szilagyi J, Blake BE, Plazas C, Kepper S, Fenton SE, Fry RC. An assessment of serum-dependent impacts on intracellular accumulation and genomic response of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in a placental trophoblast model. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2020; 35:1395-1405. [PMID: 32790152 PMCID: PMC7738272 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/11/2020] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a class of environmental contaminants, have been detected in human placenta and cord blood. The mechanisms driving PFAS-induced effects on the placenta and adverse pregnancy outcomes are not well understood. This study investigated the impact of perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and a replacement PFAS known as hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid (HFPO-DA, tradename GenX) on placental trophoblasts in vitro. Several key factors were addressed. First, PFAS levels in cell culture reagents at baseline were quantified. Second, the role of supplemental media serum in intracellular accumulation of PFAS in a human trophoblast (JEG3) cell line was established. Finally, the impact of PFAS on the expression of 96 genes involved in proper placental function in JEG3 cells was evaluated. The results revealed that serum-free media (SFM) contained no detectable PFAS. In contrast, fetal bovine serum-supplemented media (SSM) contained PFNA, PFUdA, PFTrDA, and 6:2 FTS, but these PFAS were not detected internally in cells. Intracellular accumulation following 24 hr treatments was significantly higher when cultured in SFM compared to SSM for PFOS and PFOA, but not HFPO-DA. Treatment with PFAS was associated with gene expression changes (n = 32) in pathways vital to placental function, including viability, syncytialization, inflammation, transport, and invasion/mesenchymal transition. Among the most robust PFAS-associated changes were those observed in the known apoptosis-related genes, BAD and BAX. These results suggest a complex relationship between PFAS, in vitro culture conditions, and altered expression of key genes necessary for proper placentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Bangma
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - John Szilagyi
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Curriculum in Toxicology & Environmental Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Bevin E. Blake
- Curriculum in Toxicology & Environmental Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
- Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP), NTP Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Cinthya Plazas
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Stewart Kepper
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Suzanne E. Fenton
- Division of the National Toxicology Program (DNTP), NTP Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Rebecca C Fry
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Institute for Environmental Health Solutions, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
- Curriculum in Toxicology & Environmental Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
- Corresponding author: Rebecca Fry, PhD, , Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
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Li Z, Li C, Wen Z, Yan H, Zou C, Li Y, Tian L, Lei Z, Li H, Wang Y, Zhong Y, Ge RS. Perfluoroheptanoic acid induces Leydig cell hyperplasia but inhibits spermatogenesis in rats after pubertal exposure. Toxicology 2020; 448:152633. [PMID: 33220336 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2020.152633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA) is a short-chain alternative to long-chain perfluoroalkyl substances, which have been reported to possess reproductive toxicity. However, it is unclear whether PFHpA affects Leydig cell development during puberty. The 35-day-old Sprague Dawley male rats were exposed to PFHpA by gavage with 0 (corn oil), 10, 50, and 100 mg/kg/day for 21 days. PFHpA did not affect the body weight of rats, but it reduced testis weight, relative testis weight, and epididymis weight at 100 mg/kg. It significantly increased serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone levels at a dose of 100 mg/kg without affecting serum estradiol levels. PFHpA suppressed sperm production at a dose of 100 mg/kg. PFHpA induced Leydig cell hyperplasia (increased number of CYP11A1-positive Leydig cells) at a dose of 100 mg/kg, but down-regulated the expression of Cyp11a1, Hsd3b1, and Cyp17a1 in individual Leydig cell pe se and up-regulated the expression of Fshr in the Sertoli cell pe se. PFHpA did not affect the number of HSD11B1 (a biomarker for more mature Leydig cells) positive Leydig cells and SOX9 positive Sertoli cells. PFHpA increased BCL2, and the phosphorylation of AKT1, AKT2, ERK1/2, and JNK, but decreased BAX levels. However, it had no effect on SIRT1 and PGC-1α levels. In conclusion, PFHpA induces Leydig cell hyperplasia due to the increase in the secretion of luteinizing hormone through negative feedback after down-regulating the expression of steroidogenic enzymes and inhibiting testosterone production in individual Leydig cells. This proliferation may be mediated by increasing BCL2 and phosphorylation of AKT, ERK1/2, and JNK, and decreasing BAX level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zengqiang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Changchang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Zina Wen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Chengdu Xi'nan Gynecological Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Haoni Yan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Cheng Zou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Lili Tian
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Zhen Lei
- Chengdu Xi'nan Gynecological Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Huitao Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Yiyan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Ying Zhong
- Chengdu Xi'nan Gynecological Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China.
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Selvaraju V, Baskaran S, Agarwal A, Henkel R. Environmental contaminants and male infertility: Effects and mechanisms. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13646. [PMID: 32447772 DOI: 10.1111/and.13646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The escalating prevalence of male infertility and decreasing trend in sperm quality have been correlated with rapid industrialisation and the associated discharge of an excess of synthetic substances into the environment. Humans are inevitably exposed to these ubiquitously distributed environmental contaminants, which possess the ability to intervene with the growth and function of male reproductive organs. Several epidemiological reports have correlated the blood and seminal levels of environmental contaminants with poor sperm quality. Numerous in vivo and in vitro studies have been conducted to investigate the effect of various environmental contaminants on spermatogenesis, steroidogenesis, Sertoli cells, blood-testis barrier, epididymis and sperm functions. The reported reprotoxic effects include alterations in the spermatogenic cycle, increased germ cell apoptosis, inhibition of steroidogenesis, decreased Leydig cell viability, impairment of Sertoli cell structure and function, altered expression of steroid receptors, increased permeability of blood-testis barrier, induction of peroxidative and epigenetic alterations in spermatozoa resulting in poor sperm quality and function. In light of recent scientific reports, this review discusses the effects of environmental contaminants on the male reproductive function and the possible mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaithinathan Selvaraju
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Hospitality Management, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Saradha Baskaran
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ralf Henkel
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
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Szilagyi JT, Gorczyca L, Brinker A, Buckley B, Laskin JD, Aleksunes LM. Placental BCRP/ABCG2 Transporter Prevents Fetal Exposure to the Estrogenic Mycotoxin Zearalenone. Toxicol Sci 2020; 168:394-404. [PMID: 30576553 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfy303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In the placenta, the breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP)/ABCG2 efflux transporter limits the maternal-to-fetal transfer of drugs and chemicals. Previous research has pointed to the estrogenic mycotoxin zearalenone as a potential substrate for BCRP. Here, we sought to assess the role of the BCRP transporter in the transplacental disposition of zearalenone during pregnancy. In vitro transwell transport assays employing BCRP/Bcrp-transfected Madine-Darby canine kidney cells and BeWo trophoblasts with reduced BCRP expression were used to characterize the impact of BCRP on the bidirectional transport of zearalenone. In both models, the presence of BCRP protein increased the basolateral-to-apical transport and reduced the apical-to-basolateral transport of zearalenone over a 2-h period. In vivo pharmacokinetic analyses were then performed using pregnant wild-type and Bcrp-/- mice after a single tail vein injection of zearalenone. Zearalenone and its metabolite α-zearalenol were detectable in serum, placentas, and fetuses from all animals, and β-zearalenol was detected in serum and fetuses, but not placentas. There were no significant differences in the maternal serum concentrations of any analytes between the two genotypes. In Bcrp-/- mice, the free fetal concentrations of zearalenone, α-zearalenol, and β-zearalenol were increased by 115%, 84%, and 150%, respectively, when compared with wild-type mice. Concentrations of free zearalenone and α-zearalenol were elevated 145% and 78% in Bcrp-/- placentas, respectively, when compared with wild-type placentas. Taken together, these data indicate that the placental BCRP transporter functions to reduce the fetal accumulation of zearalenone, which may impact susceptibility to developmental toxicities associated with in utero zearalenone exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- John T Szilagyi
- Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology, Rutgers University School of Graduate Studies, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854
| | - Ludwik Gorczyca
- Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology, Rutgers University School of Graduate Studies, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854
| | - Anita Brinker
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute
| | - Brian Buckley
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute
| | - Jeffrey D Laskin
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute.,Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health
| | - Lauren M Aleksunes
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854
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