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Jordan S, Bromley R, Damase-Michel C, Given J, Komninou S, Loane M, Marfell N, Dolk H. Breastfeeding, pregnancy, medicines, neurodevelopment, and population databases: the information desert. Int Breastfeed J 2022; 17:55. [PMID: 35915474 PMCID: PMC9343220 DOI: 10.1186/s13006-022-00494-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The pharmacoepidemiology of the long-term benefits and harms of medicines in pregnancy and breastfeeding has received little attention. The impact of maternal medicines on children is increasingly recognised as a source of avoidable harm. The focus of attention has expanded from congenital anomalies to include less visible, but equally important, outcomes, including cognition, neurodevelopmental disorders, educational performance, and childhood ill-health. Breastfeeding, whether as a source of medicine exposure, a mitigator of adverse effects or as an outcome, has been all but ignored in pharmacoepidemiology and pharmacovigilance: a significant ‘blind spot’. Whole-population data on breastfeeding: why we need them Optimal child development and maternal health necessitate breastfeeding, yet little information exists to guide families regarding the safety of medicine use during lactation. Breastfeeding initiation or success may be altered by medicine use, and breastfeeding may obscure the true relationship between medicine exposure during pregnancy and developmental outcomes. Absent or poorly standardised recording of breastfeeding in most population databases hampers analysis and understanding of the complex relationships between medicine, pregnancy, breastfeeding and infant and maternal health. The purpose of this paper is to present the arguments for breastfeeding to be included alongside medicine use and neurodevelopmental outcomes in whole-population database investigations of the harms and benefits of medicines during pregnancy, the puerperium and postnatal period. We review: 1) the current situation, 2) how these complexities might be accommodated in pharmacoepidemiological models, using antidepressants and antiepileptics as examples; 3) the challenges in obtaining comprehensive data. Conclusions The scarcity of whole-population data and the complexities of the inter-relationships between breastfeeding, medicines, co-exposures and infant outcomes are significant barriers to full characterisation of the benefits and harms of medicines during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This makes it difficult to answer the questions: ‘is it safe to breastfeed whilst taking this medicine’, and ‘will this medicine interfere with breastfeeding and/ or infants’ development’?
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Affiliation(s)
- Sue Jordan
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, Wales, UK.
| | - Rebecca Bromley
- Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Christine Damase-Michel
- Faculté de Médecine, Center for Epidemiology and Research in POPulation Health (CERPOP), Université Toulouse III, CHU Toulouse INSERM, Pharmacologie Médicale, Toulouse, France
| | - Joanne Given
- Faculty Life & Health Sciences, University of Ulster, Co Antrim, Newtownabbey, N Ireland, UK
| | - Sophia Komninou
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, Wales, UK
| | - Maria Loane
- Faculty Life & Health Sciences, University of Ulster, Co Antrim, Newtownabbey, N Ireland, UK
| | - Naomi Marfell
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, Wales, UK
| | - Helen Dolk
- Faculty Life & Health Sciences, University of Ulster, Co Antrim, Newtownabbey, N Ireland, UK
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Komprdová K, Domínguez-Romero E, Sharma BM, Komprda J, Melymuk L, Murínová ĽP, Čonka K, Trnovec T, Černá M, Drobná B, Fabišiková A, Sejáková ZS, Scheringer M. Application of a pharmacokinetic model in characterizing sources of polychlorinated biphenyl exposure and determining threshold daily intakes for adverse health effects in infants and toddlers. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 830:154734. [PMID: 35337869 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154734] [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: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Characterization of PCB exposure sources for vulnerable population groups is essential to minimize the health effects of PCB exposure. At the same time, it is important to consolidate the knowledge on threshold intakes of PCBs for infants and toddlers to prevent health effects. We estimated total PCB concentrations from birth to 2 years of age in children from Slovak and Czech populations, which continue to have high PCB concentrations in breast milk. Using a pharmacokinetic (PK) model, we characterized dominant PCB exposure sources and estimated new threshold estimated daily intakes (TEDI) (above which adverse effects cannot be excluded) for postnatal PCB exposure in infants and toddlers. In the PK model, concentrations of seven indicator PCBs in breast milk and cord blood samples from 291 mother-child pairs from the Slovak birth cohort, and 396 breast milk samples from Czech mothers we used, together with their physiological characteristics and PCB concentrations from other exposure sources (food, dust, air). The estimated total PCB concentrations in children's blood at different ages were compared with threshold PCB concentrations of 500, 700 and 1000 ng·glipid-1 in serum proposed by the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES) and the German Environment Agency (UBA), above which possible adverse health effects may be expected. We estimated that up to 20.6% of Slovak children and up to 45.7% of Czech children at two years of age exceeded the threshold value of 700 ng·glipid-1 in blood. Mean TEDIs leading to values of 500 ng·glipid-1 in blood for children up to two years ranged between 110 and 220 ng·kg-1·bw·day-1, varying according to breastfeeding duration. Breast milk and prenatal exposure contributed to 71%-85% of PCBs exposure at two years of age. In contrast, the contributions of PCBs from dust and indoor air were negligible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klára Komprdová
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | | | - Brij Mohan Sharma
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Jiří Komprda
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Lisa Melymuk
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Ľubica Palkovičová Murínová
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Public Health, Slovak Medical University, Limbová 12, 83303 Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Kamil Čonka
- Department of Toxic Organic Pollutants, Faculty of Medicine, Slovak Medical University, Limbová 12, 833 03 Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Tomáš Trnovec
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Public Health, Slovak Medical University, Limbová 12, 83303 Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Milena Černá
- National Institute of Public Health, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Beata Drobná
- Department of Toxic Organic Pollutants, Faculty of Medicine, Slovak Medical University, Limbová 12, 833 03 Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Anna Fabišiková
- Department of Toxic Organic Pollutants, Faculty of Medicine, Slovak Medical University, Limbová 12, 833 03 Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Zuzana Stachová Sejáková
- Department of Toxic Organic Pollutants, Faculty of Medicine, Slovak Medical University, Limbová 12, 833 03 Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Martin Scheringer
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic.
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Wilde VK. Neonatal Jaundice and Autism: Precautionary Principle Invocation Overdue. Cureus 2022; 14:e22512. [PMID: 35228983 PMCID: PMC8873319 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.22512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Papadopoulou E, Botton J, Caspersen IH, Alexander J, Eggesbø M, Haugen M, Iszatt N, Jacobsson B, Knutsen HK, Meltzer HM, Sengpiel V, Stratakis N, Vejrup K, Brantsæter AL. Maternal seafood intake during pregnancy, prenatal mercury exposure and child body mass index trajectories up to 8 years. Int J Epidemiol 2021; 50:1134-1146. [PMID: 33713119 PMCID: PMC8407875 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyab035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Maternal seafood intake during pregnancy and prenatal mercury exposure may influence children’s growth trajectories. Methods This study, based on the Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study (MoBa), includes 51 952 mother-child pairs recruited in pregnancy during 2002–08 and a subsample (n = 2277) with maternal mercury concentrations in whole blood. Individual growth trajectories were computed by modelling based on child’s reported weight and length/height from 1 month to 8 years. We used linear mixed-effects regression analysis and also conducted discordant-sibling analysis. Results Maternal lean fish was the main contributor to total seafood intake in pregnancy and was positively but weakly associated with child body mass index (BMI) growth trajectory. Higher prenatal mercury exposure (top decile) was associated with a reduction in child’s weight growth trajectory, with the estimates ranging from -130 g [95% Confidence Intervals (CI) = -247, -12 g] at 18 months to -608 g (95% CI = -1.102, -113 g) at 8 years. Maternal fatty fish consumption was positively associated with child weight and BMI growth trajectory, but only in the higher mercury-exposed children (P-interaction = 0.045). Other seafood consumption during pregnancy was negatively associated with child weight growth compared with no intake, and this association was stronger for higher mercury-exposed children (P-interaction = 0.004). No association was observed between discordant maternal seafood intake and child growth in the sibling analysis. Conclusions Within a population with moderate seafood consumption and low mercury exposure, we found that maternal seafood consumption in pregnancy was associated with child growth trajectories, and the direction of the association varied by seafood type and level of prenatal mercury exposure. Prenatal mercury exposure was negatively associated with child growth. Our findings on maternal seafood intake are likely non-causal.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jérémie Botton
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Univ. Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, Châtenay-Malabry, France
| | | | - Jan Alexander
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Skoyen, Oslo, Norway
| | - Merete Eggesbø
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Skoyen, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Nina Iszatt
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Skoyen, Oslo, Norway
| | - Bo Jacobsson
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Skoyen, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital Gothenburg/Östra, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | | | - Verena Sengpiel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital Gothenburg/Östra, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Nikos Stratakis
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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5
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Ellsworth L, McCaffery H, Chernyak S, Lam S, Sargis RM, Padmanabhan V, Gregg B. Lactational exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls is higher in overweight /obese women and associated with altered infant growth trajectory: A pilot study. Curr Res Toxicol 2020; 1:133-140. [PMID: 34345842 PMCID: PMC8320629 DOI: 10.1016/j.crtox.2020.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Human milk levels of PCBs are higher in mothers with overweight and obesity. Lactational exposure to PCBs is associated with alterations in development. Lactational expsures to PCBs in human milk are associated with slower infant growth patterns.
Background Infant exposure to environmental chemicals, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), may contribute to developmental programming of long-term metabolic disease risk. PCBs persist given their lipophilicity and long half-lives, allowing them to bio-accumulate in adipose tissue. These compounds can then be excreted into maternal milk resulting in infant exposure. Objective To determine the level of PCBs in milk from mothers with pre-pregnancy overweight and obese (OW/OB) versus normal weight status (NW) and evaluate the association of milk PCB levels with infant growth over the first 6 months of life. Methods A pilot study of a subset of milk samples from mothers with NW (pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) < 25 kg/m2, n = 11) and OW/OB (pre-pregnancy BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2, n = 8) were examined approximately 2-weeks postpartum. PCB congeners 138 + 163, 132 + 153, 180, and the sum were measured using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry and adjusted for milk fat content. Infant growth was monitored from birth to 6 months for weight-for-age (WFA), length-for-age (LFA), weight-for-length (WFL), head circumference-for-age (HCA), and associations with milk PCB content determined using linear mixed modeling. Results Total milk fat content did not differ by maternal weight status (p = 0.88). Milk from mothers with OW/OB had significantly higher PCB sum (p = 0.02) and PCB 138 + 163 (p = 0.03). PCB 132 + 153 (β −0.0008, p = 0.0218), PCB 180 (β −0.0010, p = 0.0279), and PCB sum (β −0.0006, p = 0.0138) were negatively associated with HCA Z-score growth to 6 months. PCB 180 was negatively associated with infant WFA (β −0.0015, p = 0.0058) and WFL Z-score (β −0.0016, p = 0.0263) to 6 months. There were no associations of PCB sum content with WFL, LFA, WFL Z-score over the first 6 months of life. Conclusions Maternal overweight and obesity are associated with higher levels of total PCB congeners (132, 138, 153, 163, 180) in human milk. PCB congeners have negative associations with infant head circumference and weight trajectory over the first 6 months of life.
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Key Words
- BMI, Body mass index
- EDCs, Endocrine disrupting chemicals
- GC/MS, Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry
- HCA, Head circumference-for-age
- HMA, Human Milk Analyzer
- Human milk
- IMAGE, Infant Metabolism and Gestational Endocrinopathies
- Infant growth
- LFA, Length-for-age
- LOD, Limit of detection
- PCBs, Polychlorinated biphenyls
- Polychlorinated biphenyls
- WFA, Weight-for-age
- WFL, Weight-for-length
- WHO, World Health Organization
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Ellsworth
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, 1540 E. Medical Center Drive, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Corresponding author at: Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, 1540 E Medical Center Drive, 8-621 Mott/4254, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-4254, United States.
| | - Harlan McCaffery
- Center for Human Growth and Development, University of Michigan, 300 N Ingalls St, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Sergei Chernyak
- Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Stephanie Lam
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan, 1540 E. Medical Center Drive, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Robert M. Sargis
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 835 S. Wolcott, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan, 1540 E. Medical Center Drive, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan, 1540 E. Medical Center Drive, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Brigid Gregg
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan, 1540 E. Medical Center Drive, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan, 1540 E. Medical Center Drive, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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Tahir E, Cordier S, Courtemanche Y, Forget-Dubois N, Desrochers-Couture M, Bélanger RE, Ayotte P, Jacobson JL, Jacobson SW, Muckle G. Effects of polychlorinated biphenyls exposure on physical growth from birth to childhood and adolescence: A prospective cohort study. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 189:109924. [PMID: 32798778 PMCID: PMC7529953 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Given that their traditional lifestyle and diet still relies on fish and other marine species for sustenance, the Inuit are highly exposed to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and PCBs are increasingly linked to obesity. However, evidence is not consistent regarding which periods of exposure are most relevant. In this study, we examine whether in utero, childhood, and adolescent exposure to PCBs are related to physical growth at adolescence. METHOD Inuit adolescents from Canada (N=212) enrolled in a prospective longitudinal cohort study since birth were assessed for height, weight, body mass index (BMI), fat mass index (FMI) and fat free mass index (FFMI) at 18 years of age. PCB 153 concentrations were quantified in blood samples obtained at birth (umbilical cord), 11, and 18 years of age. Maternal anthropometrics were measured and those for the newborns collected from medical records. Data on biological mothers and participants' sociodemographic characteristics and food security were collected using interviews. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to test associations between PCB 153 concentrations and adolescent anthropometric measures. RESULTS Cord PCB 153 was not related to height or FFMI at adolescence. By contrast, analyses showed that cord PCB 153 was related to higher BMI, FMI and marginally to weight in girls but not boys. Child PCB 153 was not related to height, weight or FFMI in adolescence. Child PCB 153 was related to lower BMI and FMI at adolescence in both sexes, particularly among those considered overweight or obese during childhood. Adolescent PCB 153 was not associated with any outcome. CONCLUSION This study suggests that prenatal exposure to PCBs may have a long-term effect on growth in early adulthood among girls and identifies the peri-pubertal period as another window of sensitivity for the action of PCBs. Our findings also suggest that exposure to PCBs and body size be documented in multiple time periods from infancy to adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emad Tahir
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Sylvaine Cordier
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, Québec, Canada; Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail), UMR_S1085, F-35000, Rennes, France
| | - Yohann Courtemanche
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Nadine Forget-Dubois
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, Québec, Canada
| | | | - Richard E Bélanger
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, Québec, Canada; Département de Pédiatrie, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Pierre Ayotte
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, Québec, Canada; Centre de Toxicologie du Québec, Institut National de Santé Publique du Québec, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Joseph L Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Sandra W Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Gina Muckle
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, Québec, Canada; École de Psychologie, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada.
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7
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Naqvi A, Qadir A, Mahmood A, Baqar M, Aslam I, Jamil N, Mumtaz M, Saeed S, Zhang G. Screening of human health risk to infants associated with the polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) levels in human milk from Punjab Province, Pakistan. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:6837-6850. [PMID: 31879876 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-07126-2] [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: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
This study assessed the polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) levels in human milk and its associated health risk to infants from rural and urban settings of five districts of Punjab Province, Pakistan. The ∑34PCB concentrations ranged from 30.9 to 68.3 ng g-1 on lipid weight (l.w.) basis. The ∑8DL-PCB concentrations were ranged from 0.29 to 1.35 ng g-1 l.w., (mean 6.2 ± 8.7 ng g-1 l.w.), with toxicity equivalent to polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (PCDDs) ranging from 8.58 × 10-6 to 0.05 ng TEQ g-1 l.w. The spatial trend of PCB levels in human milk revealed higher bioaccumulative levels for urban mothers as compared with rural counterparts. The estimated daily intake (EDI) values of DL-PCBs to infants through trans-mammary transfer were considerably higher than tolerable daily intake limits established by WHO (i.e., 1-4 pg TEQ kg-1 bw) and other globally recognized organizations. Similarly, the hazard quotient values for TEQ ∑8DL-PCBs (range 1.21 to 79.87) were far above the benchmark value of 1 at all the sampling sites, indicating the high levels of adverse health risks to infants in the region through breast milk consumption. The ∑34PCB levels were found to be negatively correlated with mother' age (r = -0.31; p = 0.02), parity (r = - 0.85; p = 0.001), and infant' birth weight (r = - 0.73; p = 0.01). The present study suggests undertaking comprehensive public health risk assessment studies and firm regulatory measures to safeguard human health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anber Naqvi
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Qadir
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan.
| | - Adeel Mahmood
- Department of Environmental Science, Government College for Women University, Sialkot, 51310, Pakistan
| | - Mujtaba Baqar
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan.
| | - Iqra Aslam
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan
| | - Nadia Jamil
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan
| | - Mehvish Mumtaz
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control (SKJLESPC), Beijing Key Laboratory for Emerging Organic Contaminants Control (BKLEOC), School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, People's Republic of China
| | - Salman Saeed
- Food and Biotechnology Research Center, Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Lahore, 54600, Pakistan
| | - Gan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, People's Republic of China
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Prince LM, Aschner M, Bowman AB. Human-induced pluripotent stems cells as a model to dissect the selective neurotoxicity of methylmercury. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2019; 1863:129300. [PMID: 30742955 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2019.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Revised: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a potent neurotoxicant affecting both the developing and mature central nervous system (CNS) with apparent indiscriminate disruption of multiple homeostatic pathways. However, genetic and environmental modifiers contribute significant variability to neurotoxicity associated with human exposures. MeHg displays developmental stage and neural lineage selective neurotoxicity. To identify mechanistic-based neuroprotective strategies to mitigate human MeHg exposure risk, it will be critical to improve our understanding of the basis of MeHg neurotoxicity and of this selective neurotoxicity. Here, we propose that human-based pluripotent stem cell cellular approaches may enable mechanistic insight into genetic pathways that modify sensitivity of specific neural lineages to MeHg-induced neurotoxicity. Such studies are crucial for the development of novel disease modifying strategies impinging on MeHg exposure vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Prince
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2051, United States
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, United States
| | - Aaron B Bowman
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2051, United States.
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9
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LaKind JS, Lehmann GM, Davis MH, Hines EP, Marchitti SA, Alcala C, Lorber M. Infant Dietary Exposures to Environmental Chemicals and Infant/Child Health: A Critical Assessment of the Literature. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2018; 126:96002. [PMID: 30256157 PMCID: PMC6375563 DOI: 10.1289/ehp1954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Revised: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The benefits of breastfeeding to the infant and mother have been well documented. It is also well known that breast milk contains environmental chemicals, and numerous epidemiological studies have explored relationships between background levels of chemicals in breast milk and health outcomes in infants and children. OBJECTIVES In this paper, we examine epidemiological literature to address the following question: Are infant exposures to background levels of environmental chemicals in breast milk and formula associated with adverse health effects? We critically review this literature a) to explore whether exposure-outcome associations are observed across studies, and b) to assess the literature quality. METHODS We reviewed literature identified from electronic literature searches. We explored whether exposure-outcome associations are observed across studies by assessing the quality (using a modified version of a previously published quality assessment tool), consistency, and strengths and weaknesses in the literature. The epidemiological literature included cohorts from several countries and examined infants/children either once or multiple times over weeks to years. Health outcomes included four broad categories: growth and maturation, morbidity, biomarkers, and neurodevelopment. RESULTS The available literature does not provide conclusive evidence of consistent or clinically relevant health consequences to infants exposed to environmental chemicals in breast milk at background levels. CONCLUSIONS It is clear that more research would better inform our understanding of the potential for health impacts from infant dietary exposures to environmental chemicals. A critical data gap is a lack of research on environmental chemicals in formula and infant/child health outcomes. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP1954.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judy S LaKind
- 1 LaKind Associates, LLC, Catonsville, Maryland, USA
- 2 Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine , Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Geniece M Lehmann
- 3 Office of Research and Development (ORD), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Research Triangle Park , North Carolina, USA
| | - Matthew H Davis
- 4 Office of Children's Health Protection, U.S. EPA, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Erin P Hines
- 3 Office of Research and Development (ORD), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Research Triangle Park , North Carolina, USA
| | - Satori A Marchitti
- 5 Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), ORD, U.S. EPA, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Cecilia Alcala
- 6 Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH), ORD, U.S. EPA, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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10
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A Systematic Review of the Effects of Environmental Pollutants, Chemical Factors, and Climate Changes on Children’s Height. HEALTH SCOPE 2018. [DOI: 10.5812/jhealthscope.12864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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11
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Oliveira CS, Nogara PA, Ardisson-Araújo DMP, Aschner M, Rocha JBT, Dórea JG. Neurodevelopmental Effects of Mercury. ADVANCES IN NEUROTOXICOLOGY 2018; 2:27-86. [PMID: 32346667 PMCID: PMC7188190 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ant.2018.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The toxicology of mercury (Hg) is of concern since this metal is ubiquitously distributed in the environment, and living organisms are routinely exposed to Hg at low to high levels. The toxic effects of Hg are well studied and it is known that they may differ depending on the Hg chemical species. In this chapter, we emphasize the neurotoxic effects of Hg during brain development. The immature brain is more susceptible to Hg exposure, since all the Hg chemical forms, not only the organic ones, can harm it. The possible consequences of Hg exposure during the early stages of development, the additive effects with other co-occurring neurotoxicants, and the known mechanisms of action and targets will be addressed in this chapter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cláudia S Oliveira
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica Toxicológica, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Pablo A Nogara
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica Toxicológica, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Daniel M P Ardisson-Araújo
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica Toxicológica, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
- Laboratório de Virologia de Insetos, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY, USA
| | - João B T Rocha
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - José G Dórea
- Professor Emeritus, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
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Prince LM, Rand MD. Methylmercury exposure causes a persistent inhibition of myogenin expression and C2C12 myoblast differentiation. Toxicology 2018; 393:113-122. [PMID: 29104120 PMCID: PMC5757876 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2017.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Revised: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a ubiquitous environmental toxicant, best known for its selective targeting of the developing nervous system. MeHg exposure has been shown to cause motor deficits such as impaired gait and coordination, muscle weakness, and muscle atrophy, which have been associated with disruption of motor neurons. However, recent studies have suggested that muscle may also be a target of MeHg toxicity, both in the context of developmental myogenic events and of low-level chronic exposures affecting muscle wasting in aging. We therefore investigated the effects of MeHg on myotube formation, using the C2C12 mouse myoblast model. We found that MeHg inhibits both differentiation and fusion, in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, MeHg specifically and persistently inhibits myogenin (MyoG), a transcription factor involved in myocyte differentiation, within the first six hours of exposure. MeHg-induced reduction in MyoG expression is contemporaneous with a reduction of a number of factors involved in mitochondrial biogenesis and mtDNA transcription and translation, which may implicate a role for mitochondria in mediating MeHg-induced change in the differentiation program. Unexpectedly, inhibition of myoblast differentiation with MeHg parallels inhibition of Notch receptor signaling. Our research establishes muscle cell differentiation as a target for MeHg toxicity, which may contribute to the underlying etiology of motor deficits with MeHg toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Prince
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Department of Environmental Medicine, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA.
| | - Matthew D Rand
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Department of Environmental Medicine, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA.
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Ballester F, Iñiguez C, Murcia M, Guxens M, Basterretxea M, Rebagliato M, Vioque J, Lertxundi A, Fernandez-Somoano A, Tardon A, Sunyer J, Llop S. Prenatal exposure to mercury and longitudinally assessed fetal growth: Relation and effect modifiers. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2018; 160:97-106. [PMID: 28968527 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2017.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Revised: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/16/2017] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal mercury exposure has been related to reductions in anthropometry at birth. Levels of mercury have been reported as being relatively elevated in the Spanish population. OBJECTIVE To investigate the relation between prenatal exposure to mercury and fetal growth. METHODS Study subjects were pregnant women and their newborns (n:1867) participating in a population-based birth cohort study set up in four Spanish regions from the INMA Project. Biparietal diameter (BPD), femur length (FL), abdominal circumference (AC), and estimated fetal weight (EFW) were measured by ultrasounds at 12, 20, and 34 weeks of gestation. Size at and growth between these points were assessed by standard deviation (SD) scores adjusted for constitutional characteristics. Total mercury (T-Hg) was determined in cord blood. Associations were investigated by linear regression models, adjusted by sociodemographic, environmental, nutritional - including four seafood groups - and lifestyle-related variables in each sub-cohort. Final estimates were obtained using meta-analysis. Effect modification by sex, seafood intake and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congener 153 concentration was assessed. RESULTS Geometric mean of cord blood T-Hg was 8.2μg/L. All the estimates of the association between prenatal Hg and growth from 0 to 12 weeks showed reductions in SD-scores, which were only statistically significant for BPD. A doubling of cord blood T-Hg was associated with a 0.58% reduction in size of BPD at week 12 (95% confidence interval -CI-: - 1.10, - 0.07). Size at week 34 showed estimates suggestive of a small reduction in EFW, i.e., a doubling of T-Hg levels was associated with a reduction of 0.38% (95% CI: - 0.91, 0.15). An interaction between PCB153 and T-Hg was found, with statistically significant negative associations of T-Hg with AC and EFW in late pregnancy among participants with PCB153 below the median. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to mercury during pregnancy was associated with early reductions in BPD. Moreover, an antagonism with PCB 153 was observed with noteworthy reductions late in pregnancy in AC and EFW in the group with lower PCB153.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferran Ballester
- Nursing School, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain; FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-Universitat de València Joint Research Unit of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Spain.
| | - Carmen Iñiguez
- FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-Universitat de València Joint Research Unit of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Spain
| | - Mario Murcia
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Spain; FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-Universitat de València Joint Research Unit of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, Valencia, Spain
| | - Mònica Guxens
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain; ISGlobal, Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus University Medical Centre-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mikel Basterretxea
- Public Health Division of Gipuzkoa, San Sebastián, Spain; Health Research Institute (BIODONOSTIA), San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Marisa Rebagliato
- FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-Universitat de València Joint Research Unit of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Spain; Medicine Department, Universitat Jaume I, Castelló de la Plana, Spain
| | - Jesús Vioque
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Spain; Universidad Miguel Hernández, San Juan de Alicante, Spain
| | - Aitana Lertxundi
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Spain; Universidad del País Vasco, Spain
| | - Ana Fernandez-Somoano
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Spain; IUOPA, Departamento de Medicina, Universidad de Oviedo, Spain
| | - Adonina Tardon
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Spain
| | - Jordi Sunyer
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain; ISGlobal, Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sabrina Llop
- FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-Universitat de València Joint Research Unit of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Spain
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14
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Gmelch L, Hintelmann H, Hickie B, Kienberger H, Stern G, Rychlik M. Risk-Benefit Assessment of Monomethylmercury and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Intake for Ringed Seal Consumption with Particular Emphasis on Vulnerable Populations in the Western Canadian Arctic. Front Nutr 2017; 4:30. [PMID: 28798916 PMCID: PMC5526837 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2017.00030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Many northern Inuit communities rely on traditional food as major source of nourishment. An essential part of the traditional Arctic diet is marine mammals such as ringed seals or beluga. Being top predators, these animals are often highly contaminated with various toxins. In contrast, some tissues of marine mammals are also characterized by high amounts of n3-PUFAs (omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids). Here, we try to balance the risks associated with the consumption of different tissue types of ringed seals in terms of the neurotoxin monomethylmercury (MMHg) with the benefits of consumption due to high n3-PUFA concentrations. Fetuses are at the highest risk of neurological impairments because MMHg can easily cross the placental barrier. Therefore, women of childbearing age served as an indicator population for especially susceptible subpopulations. We calculated maximal weekly maternal portions sizes if mutual consumption of muscle and blubber tissue or liver and blubber tissue was assumed. Those weekly portion sizes resulted in an estimated overall IQ point gain of infants of 0, whereas the consumption of liver or muscle tissue without blubber could lead to an IQ loss. In contrast to former studies, our data do not generally prohibit the consumption of liver tissue. Instead, our results suggest that a maximal weekly consumption of 125 g liver tissue together with 1 g of blubber tissue is acceptable and does not lead to neurological damages in the long term. Similarly, the consumption of maximal 172 g muscle tissue can be balanced by the mutual consumption of 1 g blubber tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Gmelch
- Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
- Water Quality Centre, Trent University, Peterborough, ON, Canada
| | | | - Brendan Hickie
- Water Quality Centre, Trent University, Peterborough, ON, Canada
| | - Hermine Kienberger
- Bavarian Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry Center, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - Gary Stern
- Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Michael Rychlik
- Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland, Coopers Plains, QLD, Australia
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Mallozzi M, Bordi G, Garo C, Caserta D. The effect of maternal exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals on fetal and neonatal development: A review on the major concerns. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 108:224-242. [PMID: 27653964 DOI: 10.1002/bdrc.21137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
There is a widespread exposure of general population, including pregnant women and developing fetuses, to the endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). These chemicals have been reported to be present in urine, blood serum, breast milk, and amniotic fluid. Endocrine disruptions induced by environmental toxicants have placed a heavy burden on society, since environmental exposures during critical periods of development can permanently reprogram normal physiological responses, thereby increasing susceptibility to disease later in life-a process known as developmental reprogramming. During development, organogenesis and tissue differentiation occur through a continuous series of tightly-regulated and precisely-timed molecular, biochemical, and cellular events. Humans may encounter EDCs daily and during all stages of life, from conception and fetal development through adulthood and senescence. Nevertheless, prenatal and early postnatal windows are the most critical for proper development, due to rapid changes in system growth. Although there are still gaps in our knowledge, currently available data support the urgent need for health and environmental policies aimed at protecting the public and, in particular, the developing fetus and women of reproductive age. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 108:224-242, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena Mallozzi
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University of Rome Sapienza
| | - Giulia Bordi
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University of Rome Sapienza
| | - Chiara Garo
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University of Rome Sapienza
| | - Donatella Caserta
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, University of Rome Sapienza.
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Timmermann CAG, Budtz-Jørgensen E, Petersen MS, Weihe P, Steuerwald U, Nielsen F, Jensen TK, Grandjean P. Shorter duration of breastfeeding at elevated exposures to perfluoroalkyl substances. Reprod Toxicol 2016; 68:164-170. [PMID: 27421579 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2016.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Revised: 05/13/2016] [Accepted: 07/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine whether maternal exposure to persistent perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) affect the capability to breastfeed. In two Faroese birth cohorts (N=1130), concentrations of five PFASs were measured in maternal serum during pregnancy or two weeks after term. Duration of breastfeeding was assessed by questionnaire and clinical interview. In adjusted linear regression models, a doubling of maternal serum PFASs was associated with a reduction in duration of both total and exclusive breastfeeding, most pronounced for perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) where a doubling was associated with a reduction in total breastfeeding of 1.4 (95% CI: 0.6; 2.1) months and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) where a doubling was associated with a reduction in exclusive breastfeeding of 0.5 (0.3; 0.7) months. The associations were evident among both primiparous and multiparous women, and thus cannot be explained by confounding from previous breastfeeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Amalie Gade Timmermann
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 17A, 5000 Odense C, Denmark.
| | - Esben Budtz-Jørgensen
- Section of Biostatistics, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1014 Copenhagen K, Denmark.
| | - Maria Skaalum Petersen
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Public Health, Sigmundargøta 5, 100 Tórshavn, Faroe Islands, Denmark.
| | - Pál Weihe
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Public Health, Sigmundargøta 5, 100 Tórshavn, Faroe Islands, Denmark; Faculty of Natural and Health Sciences, University of The Faroe Islands, J.C. Svabos gøta 14, 100 Tórshavn, Faroe Islands, Denmark.
| | - Ulrike Steuerwald
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Public Health, Sigmundargøta 5, 100 Tórshavn, Faroe Islands, Denmark.
| | - Flemming Nielsen
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 17A, 5000 Odense C, Denmark.
| | - Tina Kold Jensen
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 17A, 5000 Odense C, Denmark.
| | - Philippe Grandjean
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 17A, 5000 Odense C, Denmark; Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, United States.
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17
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Wells EM, Herbstman JB, Lin YH, Jarrett J, Verdon CP, Ward C, Caldwell KL, Hibbeln JR, Witter FR, Halden RU, Goldman LR. Cord Blood Methylmercury and Fetal Growth Outcomes in Baltimore Newborns: Potential Confounding and Effect Modification by Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Selenium, and Sex. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2016; 124:373-9. [PMID: 26115160 PMCID: PMC4786979 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1408596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2014] [Accepted: 06/24/2015] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methylmercury (MeHg) may affect fetal growth; however, prior research often lacked assessment of mercury speciation, confounders, and interactions. OBJECTIVE Our objective was to assess the relationship between MeHg and fetal growth as well as the potential for confounding or interaction of this relationship from speciated mercury, fatty acids, selenium, and sex. METHODS This cross-sectional study includes 271 singletons born in Baltimore, Maryland, 2004-2005. Umbilical cord blood was analyzed for speciated mercury, serum omega-3 highly unsaturated fatty acids (n-3 HUFAs), and selenium. Multivariable linear regression models controlled for gestational age, birth weight, maternal age, parity, prepregnancy body mass index, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, selenium, n-3 HUFAs, and inorganic mercury (IHg). RESULTS Geometric mean cord blood MeHg was 0.94 μg/L (95% CI: 0.84, 1.07). In adjusted models for ponderal index, βln(MeHg) = -0.045 (g/cm(3)) × 100 (95% CI: -0.084, -0.005). There was no evidence of a MeHg × sex interaction with ponderal index. Contrastingly, there was evidence of a MeHg × n-3 HUFAs interaction with birth length [among low n-3 HUFAs, βln(MeHg) = 0.40 cm, 95% CI: -0.02, 0.81; among high n-3 HUFAs, βln(MeHg) = -0.15, 95% CI: -0.54, 0.25; p-interaction = 0.048] and head circumference [among low n-3 HUFAs, βln(MeHg) = 0.01 cm, 95% CI: -0.27, 0.29; among high n-3 HUFAs, βln(MeHg) = -0.37, 95% CI: -0.63, -0.10; p-interaction = 0.042]. The association of MeHg with birth weight and ponderal index was affected by n-3 HUFAs, selenium, and IHg. For birth weight, βln(MeHg) without these variables was -16.8 g (95% CI: -75.0, 41.3) versus -29.7 (95% CI: -93.9, 34.6) with all covariates. Corresponding values for ponderal index were -0.030 (g/cm(3)) × 100 (95% CI: -0.065, 0.005) and -0.045 (95% CI: -0.084, -0005). CONCLUSION We observed an association of increased MeHg with decreased ponderal index. There is evidence for interaction between MeHg and n-3 HUFAs; infants with higher MeHg and n-3 HUFAs had lower birth length and head circumference. These results should be verified with additional studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen M. Wells
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
- Address correspondence to E.M. Wells, Purdue University, School of Health Sciences; Hampton Hall of Civil Engineering 1269; 550 Stadium Mall Dr.; West Lafayette, IN 47907 USA. Telephone: (765) 496-3535. E-mail:
| | - Julie B. Herbstman
- Columbia Center for Children’s Environmental Health, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Yu Hong Lin
- Laboratory of Membrane Biochemistry and Biophysics, National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Jeffery Jarrett
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Carl P. Verdon
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Cynthia Ward
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kathleen L. Caldwell
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Joseph R. Hibbeln
- Laboratory of Membrane Biochemistry and Biophysics, National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Frank R. Witter
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Rolf U. Halden
- Center for Environmental Security, Biodesign Institute, Global Security Initiative, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Lynn R. Goldman
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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Mercury Exposure in Healthy Korean Weaning-Age Infants: Association with Growth, Feeding and Fish Intake. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 12:14669-89. [PMID: 26593931 PMCID: PMC4661673 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph121114669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Revised: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Low-level mercury (Hg) exposure in infancy might be harmful to the physical growth as well as neurodevelopment of children. The aim of this study was to investigate postnatal Hg exposure and its relationship with anthropometry and dietary factors in late infancy. We recruited 252 healthy Korean infants between six and 24 months of age from an outpatient clinic during the 2009/2010 and 2013/2014 seasons. We measured the weight and height of the infants and collected dietary information using questionnaires. The Hg content of the hair and blood was assessed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy. The geometric mean Hg concentration in the hair and blood was 0.22 (95% confidence interval: 0.20–0.24) µg/g and 0.94 (n = 109, 95% confidence interval: 0.89–0.99) µg/L, respectively. The hair Hg concentration showed a good correlation with the blood Hg concentration (median hair-to-blood Hg ratio: 202.7, r = 0.462, p < 0.001) and was >1 µg/g in five infants. The hair Hg concentration showed significant correlations with weight gain after birth (Z-score of the weight for age—Z-score of the birthweight; r = −0.156, p = 0.015), the duration (months) of breastfeeding as the dominant method of feeding (r = 0.274, p < 0.001), and the duration of fish intake more than once per week (r = 0.138, p = 0.033). In an ordinal logistic regression analysis with categorical hair Hg content (quartiles), dietary factors, including breastfeeding as the dominant method of feeding in late infancy (cumulative odds ratio: 6.235, 95% confidence interval: 3.086–12.597, p < 0.001) and the monthly duration of fish intake more than once per week (cumulative odds ratio: 1.203, 95% confidence interval: 1.034–1.401; p = 0.017), were significantly associated with higher hair Hg content. Weight gain after birth was not, however, significantly associated with hair Hg content after adjustment for the duration of breastfeeding as the dominant method of feeding. Low-level Hg exposure through breastfeeding and fish intake as a complementary food did not directly affect anthropometry in this population. If prolonged breastfeeding is expected, however, the Hg exposure through fish intake may need to be monitored for both mothers and infants.
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King KE, Darrah TH, Money E, Meentemeyer R, Maguire RL, Nye MD, Michener L, Murtha AP, Jirtle R, Murphy SK, Mendez MA, Robarge W, Vengosh A, Hoyo C. Geographic clustering of elevated blood heavy metal levels in pregnant women. BMC Public Health 2015; 15:1035. [PMID: 26449855 PMCID: PMC4599656 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-015-2379-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2015] [Accepted: 10/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and arsenic (As) exposure is ubiquitous and has been associated with higher risk of growth restriction and cardiometabolic and neurodevelopmental disorders. However, cost-efficient strategies to identify at-risk populations and potential sources of exposure to inform mitigation efforts are limited. The objective of this study was to describe the spatial distribution and identify factors associated with Cd, Pb, Hg, and As concentrations in peripheral blood of pregnant women. Methods Heavy metals were measured in whole peripheral blood of 310 pregnant women obtained at gestational age ~12 weeks. Prenatal residential addresses were geocoded and geospatial analysis (Getis-Ord Gi* statistics) was used to determine if elevated blood concentrations were geographically clustered. Logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with elevated blood metal levels and cluster membership. Results Geospatial clusters for Cd and Pb were identified with high confidence (p-value for Gi* statistic <0.01). The Cd and Pb clusters comprised 10.5 and 9.2 % of Durham County residents, respectively. Medians and interquartile ranges of blood concentrations (μg/dL) for all participants were Cd 0.02 (0.01–0.04), Hg 0.03 (0.01–0.07), Pb 0.34 (0.16–0.83), and As 0.04 (0.04–0.05). In the Cd cluster, medians and interquartile ranges of blood concentrations (μg/dL) were Cd 0.06 (0.02–0.16), Hg 0.02 (0.00–0.05), Pb 0.54 (0.23–1.23), and As 0.05 (0.04–0.05). In the Pb cluster, medians and interquartile ranges of blood concentrations (μg/dL) were Cd 0.03 (0.02–0.15), Hg 0.01 (0.01–0.05), Pb 0.39 (0.24–0.74), and As 0.04 (0.04–0.05). Co-exposure with Pb and Cd was also clustered, the p-values for the Gi* statistic for Pb and Cd was <0.01. Cluster membership was associated with lower education levels and higher pre-pregnancy BMI. Conclusions Our data support that elevated blood concentrations of Cd and Pb are spatially clustered in this urban environment compared to the surrounding areas. Spatial analysis of metals concentrations in peripheral blood or urine obtained routinely during prenatal care can be useful in surveillance of heavy metal exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine E King
- Biodemography of Aging Research Unit (BARU), Duke University, Room A110C, Erwin Mill Building, 2024 W. Main St, Durham, NC, 27708, USA.
| | - Thomas H Darrah
- Division of Water, Climate, and the Environment, School of Earth Sciences, The Ohio State University, 275 Mendenhall Laboratory, 125th South Oval, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | - Eric Money
- Center for Geospatial Analytics, North Carolina State University, 5125 Jordan Hall, Campus Box 7106, Raleigh, NC, USA.
| | - Ross Meentemeyer
- Center for Geospatial Analytics, North Carolina State University, 5125 Jordan Hall, Campus Box 7106, Raleigh, NC, USA.
| | - Rachel L Maguire
- Department of Biological Sciences, and Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, 850 Man Campus Dr, Campus Box 7633, Raleigh, NC, USA.
| | - Monica D Nye
- Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd, Charlotte, NC, USA.
| | - Lloyd Michener
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, Duke University, 2200 Main St, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Amy P Murtha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University, 2608 Erwin Rd, Suite 210, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Randy Jirtle
- Department of Biological Sciences, and Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, 850 Man Campus Dr, Campus Box 7633, Raleigh, NC, USA.
| | - Susan K Murphy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University, 2608 Erwin Rd, Suite 210, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Michelle A Mendez
- Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina, 101 Manning Dr, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Wayne Robarge
- Department of Soil Science, North Carolina State University, PO Box 7619, Raleigh, NC, USA.
| | - Avner Vengosh
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, 450 Research Dr, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Cathrine Hoyo
- Department of Biological Sciences, and Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, 850 Man Campus Dr, Campus Box 7633, Raleigh, NC, USA.
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Iszatt N, Stigum H, Verner MA, White RA, Govarts E, Murinova LP, Schoeters G, Trnovec T, Legler J, Pelé F, Botton J, Chevrier C, Wittsiepe J, Ranft U, Vandentorren S, Kasper-Sonnenberg M, Klümper C, Weisglas-Kuperus N, Polder A, Eggesbø M. Prenatal and Postnatal Exposure to Persistent Organic Pollutants and Infant Growth: A Pooled Analysis of Seven European Birth Cohorts. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2015; 123:730-6. [PMID: 25742056 PMCID: PMC4492262 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1308005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2013] [Accepted: 03/03/2015] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infant exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) may contribute to obesity. However, many studies so far have been small, focused on transplacental exposure, used an inappropriate measure to assess postnatal exposure through breastfeeding if any, or did not discern between prenatal and postnatal effects. OBJECTIVES We investigated prenatal and postnatal exposure to POPs and infant growth (a predictor of obesity). METHODS We pooled data from seven European birth cohorts with biomarker concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyl 153 (PCB-153) (n = 2,487), and p,p'-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p'-DDE) (n = 1,864), estimating prenatal and postnatal POPs exposure using a validated pharmacokinetic model. Growth was change in weight-for-age z-score between birth and 24 months. Per compound, multilevel models were fitted with either POPs total exposure from conception to 24 months or prenatal or postnatal exposure. RESULTS We found a significant increase in growth associated with p,p'-DDE, seemingly due to prenatal exposure (per interquartile increase in exposure, adjusted β = 0.12; 95% CI: 0.03, 0.22). Due to heterogeneity across cohorts, this estimate cannot be considered precise, but does indicate that an association with infant growth is present on average. In contrast, a significant decrease in growth was associated with postnatal PCB-153 exposure (β = -0.10; 95% CI: -0.19, -0.01). CONCLUSION To our knowledge, this is the largest study to date of POPs exposure and infant growth, and it contains state-of-the-art exposure modeling. Prenatal p,p'-DDE was associated with increased infant growth, and postnatal PCB-153 with decreased growth at European exposure levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Iszatt
- Division of Epidemiology, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
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21
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Ou L, Chen C, Chen L, Wang H, Yang T, Xie H, Tong Y, Hu D, Zhang W, Wang X. Low-level prenatal mercury exposure in north China: an exploratory study of anthropometric effects. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2015; 49:6899-908. [PMID: 25936461 DOI: 10.1021/es5055868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
In order to investigate anthropometric effects of mercury (Hg) exposure, we examined the status of human prenatal exposure to Hg species, including total mercury (THg), methylmercury (MeHg) and inorganic mercury (IHg), in North China, as well as their potential effects on fetal and infant growth. Hg concentrations in various bioindicators were measured from 50 Chinese women and newborns in 2011. The participants were followed for 12 months to collect anthropometric information. Linear and two-level regression analyses were performed to determine the associations between Hg levels and body growth. The geometric mean levels of THg in the placenta, cord blood, fetal hair, and maternal blood, hair, and urine were 25.88 μg/kg dry wt, 2.73 μg/L, 572.98 μg/kg, 2.29 μg/L, 576.54 μg/kg, and 0.58 μg/g creatinine, respectively. Nearly 100% of Hg presented as IHg in urine, and the percentage of IHg in other bioindicators was 14.86-48.73%. We observed significantly negative associations between Hg levels in some matrixes and anthropometry of neonates (weight and height) and infants (height) (p < 0.05). THg levels in maternal hair were also negatively associated with infant growth rate of weight during 12 months after delivery (p = 0.017). This study suggests that low-level prenatal Hg exposure could play a role in attenuating fetal and infant growth, and the effects of MeHg and IHg are different.
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Affiliation(s)
- Langbo Ou
- †Ministry of Education Laboratory of Earth Surface Process, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Cen Chen
- †Ministry of Education Laboratory of Earth Surface Process, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Long Chen
- †Ministry of Education Laboratory of Earth Surface Process, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Huanhuan Wang
- †Ministry of Education Laboratory of Earth Surface Process, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Tianjun Yang
- †Ministry of Education Laboratory of Earth Surface Process, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Han Xie
- †Ministry of Education Laboratory of Earth Surface Process, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Yindong Tong
- †Ministry of Education Laboratory of Earth Surface Process, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Dan Hu
- †Ministry of Education Laboratory of Earth Surface Process, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- ‡School of Environment and Natural Resources, Renmin University of China, Beijing, 100872, China
| | - Xuejun Wang
- †Ministry of Education Laboratory of Earth Surface Process, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
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Bisen-Hersh EB, Farina M, Barbosa F, Rocha JBT, Aschner M. Behavioral effects of developmental methylmercury drinking water exposure in rodents. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2014; 28:117-124. [PMID: 24210169 PMCID: PMC3979511 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2013.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2013] [Revised: 09/19/2013] [Accepted: 09/19/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Early methylmercury (MeHg) exposure can have long-lasting consequences likely arising from impaired developmental processes, the outcome of which has been exposed in several longitudinal studies of affected populations. Given the large number of newborns at an increased risk of learning disabilities associated with in utero MeHg exposure, it is important to study neurobehavioral alterations using ecologically valid and physiologically relevant models. This review highlights the benefits of using the MeHg drinking water exposure paradigm and outlines behavioral outcomes arising from this procedure in rodents. Combination treatments that exacerbate or ameliorate MeHg-induced effects, and possible molecular mechanisms underlying behavioral impairment are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily B Bisen-Hersh
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | - Marcelo Farina
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Fernando Barbosa
- Department of Clinical, Toxicological and Bromatological Analyses, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Joao B T Rocha
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA; Department of Pharmacology, The Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development, and The Center for Molecular Toxicology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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Fernández-González R, Yebra-Pimentel I, Martínez-Carballo E, Simal-Gándara J. A Critical Review about Human Exposure to Polychlorinated Dibenzo-p-Dioxins (PCDDs), Polychlorinated Dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) through Foods. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2013; 55:1590-617. [DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2012.710279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Guo BQ, Cai SZ, Guo JL, Xu J, Wu W, Li H, Zhou X, Kim DS, Yan CH, Lü HD. Levels of prenatal mercury exposure and their relationships to neonatal anthropometry in Wujiang City, China. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2013; 182:184-189. [PMID: 23920315 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2013.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2013] [Revised: 07/15/2013] [Accepted: 07/19/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
We determined the levels of prenatal Hg exposure in Wujiang City, located in the southeast of Taihu Lake in China's Jiangsu Province, and analyze the relationship between prenatal exposure to Hg and neonatal anthropometry, including birth weight, body length, and head circumference. From June 2009 to July 2010, a total of 213 mother-infant pairs were enrolled. The geometric means of Hg levels in maternal hair, fetal hair, placentas, and cord blood were 496.76 μg/kg, 233.94 μg/kg, 3.58 μg/kg, and 1.54 μg/L, respectively. The Hg levels detected in our study were significantly lower than those reported by previous studies. In addition, no significant correlations were found between Hg levels in maternal hair, fetal hair, placenta, or cord blood and neonatal anthropometrics. Together, our findings may be important for understanding the effects of prenatal exposure to Hg on newborns' development and have implications concerning the recommended dose for Hg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao-Qiang Guo
- MOE-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai 200092, China
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25
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Verner MA, Sonneborn D, Lancz K, Muckle G, Ayotte P, Dewailly É, Kocan A, Palkovicová L, Trnovec T, Haddad S, Hertz-Picciotto I, Eggesbø M. Toxicokinetic modeling of persistent organic pollutant levels in blood from birth to 45 months of age in longitudinal birth cohort studies. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2013; 121:131-7. [PMID: 23086694 PMCID: PMC3553439 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1205552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2012] [Accepted: 10/17/2012] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite experimental evidence that lactational exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) can impact health, results from epidemiologic studies are inconclusive. Inconsistency across studies may reflect the inability of current methods to estimate children's blood levels during specific periods of susceptibility. OBJECTIVES We developed a toxicokinetic model to simulate blood POP levels in children from two longitudinal birth cohorts and aimed to validate it against blood levels measured at 6, 16, and 45 months of age. METHODS The model consisted of a maternal and a child lipid compartment connected through placental diffusion and breastfeeding. Simulations were carried out based on individual physiologic parameters; duration of breastfeeding; and levels of POPs measured in maternal blood at delivery, cord blood, or breast milk. Model validity was assessed through regression analyses of simulated against measured blood levels. RESULTS Simulated levels explained between 10% and 83% of measured blood levels depending on the cohort, the compound, the sample used to simulate children's blood levels, and child's age when blood levels were measured. Model accuracy was highest for estimated blood POP levels at 6 months based on maternal or cord blood levels. However, loss in model precision between the 6th and the 45th month was small for most compounds. CONCLUSIONS Our validated toxicokinetic model can be used to estimate children's blood POP levels in early to mid-childhood. Estimates can be used in epidemiologic studies to evaluate the impact of exposure during hypothesized postnatal periods of susceptibility on health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc-André Verner
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden.
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26
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Karagas MR, Choi AL, Oken E, Horvat M, Schoeny R, Kamai E, Cowell W, Grandjean P, Korrick S. Evidence on the human health effects of low-level methylmercury exposure. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2012; 120:799-806. [PMID: 22275730 PMCID: PMC3385440 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1104494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 436] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2011] [Accepted: 01/24/2012] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methylmercury (MeHg) is a known neuro-toxicant. Emerging evidence indicates it may have adverse effects on the neuro-logic and other body systems at common low levels of exposure. Impacts of MeHg exposure could vary by individual susceptibility or be confounded by beneficial nutrients in fish containing MeHg. Despite its global relevance, synthesis of the available literature on low-level MeHg exposure has been limited. OBJECTIVES We undertook a synthesis of the current knowledge on the human health effects of low-level MeHg exposure to provide a basis for future research efforts, risk assessment, and exposure remediation policies worldwide. DATA SOURCES AND EXTRACTION We reviewed the published literature for original human epidemiologic research articles that reported a direct biomarker of mercury exposure. To focus on high-quality studies and those specifically on low mercury exposure, we excluded case series, as well as studies of populations with unusually high fish consumption (e.g., the Seychelles), marine mammal consumption (e.g., the Faroe Islands, circumpolar, and other indigenous populations), or consumption of highly contaminated fish (e.g., gold-mining regions in the Amazon). DATA SYNTHESIS Recent evidence raises the possibility of effects of low-level MeHg exposure on fetal growth among susceptible subgroups and on infant growth in the first 2 years of life. Low-level effects of MeHg on neuro-logic outcomes may differ by age, sex, and timing of exposure. No clear pattern has been observed for cardio-vascular disease (CVD) risk across populations or for specific CVD end points. For the few studies evaluating immunologic effects associated with MeHg, results have been inconsistent. CONCLUSIONS Studies targeted at identifying potential mechanisms of low-level MeHg effects and characterizing individual susceptibility, sexual dimorphism, and non-linearity in dose response would help guide future prevention, policy, and regulatory efforts surrounding MeHg exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret R Karagas
- Section of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA.
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27
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Kim BM, Lee BE, Hong YC, Park H, Ha M, Kim YJ, Kim Y, Chang N, Kim BN, Oh SY, Yoo M, Ha EH. Mercury levels in maternal and cord blood and attained weight through the 24 months of life. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2011; 410-411:26-33. [PMID: 22000783 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2011.08.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2011] [Revised: 08/24/2011] [Accepted: 08/25/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Birth weight is a strong determinant of attained weight at early ages. Until now, many studies have reported that low birth weight corresponds with high mercury levels. However, the relationship between mercury exposure and attained weight of infant has not been well studied. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to assess the degree of prenatal exposure to mercury by measuring the total mercury levels in maternal and cord blood, and examine the relationship between the mercury level during pregnancy and the attained weight of infant during the first 24 months of life. The prospective cohort study of Mothers and Children's Environmental Health (MOCEH) was built up in 2006, and 921 mother-infant pairs were recruited. Information on the socio-demographic characteristics, health behavior and environmental exposure were collected from an interview with trained nurses. After delivery, infants and mothers were followed up at 6, 12 and 24 months and the weights of the infants were measured. The mercury concentrations in the late maternal blood (β=-0.19. p=0.05) and cord blood (β=-0.36. p=0.01) were negatively associated with the infants' attained weight over the first 24 months of age. The infants' attained weight in the small for their gestational age (SGA) group was lower than the normal birth weight group at the highest quartile of the mercury level. Therefore, efforts should be made to reduce the mercury level in the maternal blood at late pregnancy and cord blood. Further research on the possible harmful effects of prenatal mercury exposure on postnatal growth is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byung-Mi Kim
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Ewha Medical Research Center, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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28
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Legler J, Hamers T, van Eck van der Sluijs-van de Bor M, Schoeters G, van der Ven L, Eggesbo M, Koppe J, Feinberg M, Trnovec T. The OBELIX project: early life exposure to endocrine disruptors and obesity. Am J Clin Nutr 2011; 94:1933S-1938S. [PMID: 21543539 DOI: 10.3945/ajcn.110.001669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypothesis of whether early life exposure (both pre- and early postnatal) to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) may be a risk factor for obesity and related metabolic diseases later in life will be tested in the European research project OBELIX (OBesogenic Endocrine disrupting chemicals: LInking prenatal eXposure to the development of obesity later in life). OBELIX is a 4-y project that started in May 2009 and which has the following 5 main objectives: 1) to assess early life exposure in humans to major classes of EDCs identified as potential inducers of obesity (ie, dioxin-like compounds, non-dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls, organochlorine pesticides, brominated flame retardants, phthalates, and perfluorinated compounds) by using mother-child cohorts from 4 European regions with different food-contaminant exposure patterns; 2) to relate early life exposure to EDCs with clinical markers, novel biomarkers, and health-effect data related to obesity; 3) to perform hazard characterization of early life exposure to EDCs for the development of obesity later in life by using a mouse model; 4) to determine mechanisms of action of obesogenic EDCs on developmental programming with in vivo and in vitro genomics and epigenetic analyses; and 5) to perform risk assessments of prenatal exposure to obesogenic EDCs in food by integrating maternal exposure through food-contaminant exposure and health-effect data in children and hazard data in animal studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliette Legler
- Institutes for Environmental Studies VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
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29
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Nyland JF, Wang SB, Shirley DL, Santos EO, Ventura AM, de Souza JM, Silbergeld EK. Fetal and maternal immune responses to methylmercury exposure: a cross-sectional study. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2011; 111:584-9. [PMID: 21396635 PMCID: PMC3081921 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2011.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2010] [Revised: 02/16/2011] [Accepted: 02/17/2011] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a ubiquitous environmental contaminant with known neurodevelopmental effects. In humans, prenatal exposures primarily occur through maternal consumption of contaminated fish. In this study, we evaluated the association between prenatal exposure to MeHg and titers of total immunoglobulins (Ig) and specific autoantibodies in both mothers and fetuses by analyzing maternal and cord blood serum samples. We examined multiple immunoglobulin isotypes to determine if these biomarkers could inform as to fetal or maternal responses since IgG but not IgM can cross the placenta. Finally, we evaluated serum cytokine levels to further characterize the immune response to mercury exposure. The study was conducted using a subset of serum samples (N=61 pairs) collected from individuals enrolled in a population surveillance of MeHg exposures in the Brazilian Amazon during 2000/2001. Serum titers of antinuclear and antinucleolar autoantibodies were measured by indirect immunofluorescence. Serum immunoglobulins were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and BioPlex multiplex assay. Serum cytokines were measured by BioPlex multiplex assay. In this population, the geometric mean mercury level was within the 95th percentile for US populations of women of childbearing age but the upper level of the range was significantly higher. Fetal blood mercury levels were higher (1.35 times) than those in their mothers, but highly correlated (correlation coefficient [r]=0.71; 95% CI: 0.54, 0.89). Total IgG (r=0.40; 95% CI: 0.19, 0.62) and antinuclear autoantibody (odds ratio [OR]=1.05; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.08) levels in paired maternal and fetal samples were also associated; in contrast, other immunoglobulin (IgM, IgE, and IgA) levels were not associated between pairs. Total IgG levels were significantly correlated with both maternal (r=0.60; 95% CI: 0.25, 0.96) and cord blood mercury levels (r=0.61; 95% CI: 0.25, 0.97), but individual isotypes were not. Serum cytokines, interleukin-1β (r=0.37; 95% CI: 0.01, 0.73), interleukin-6 (r=0.34; 95% CI: 0.03, 0.65), and tumor necrosis factor-α (r=0.24; 95% CI: 0.015, 0.47), were positively correlated between maternal and fetal samples. Antinuclear and antinucleolar autoantibody titer and serum cytokine levels, in either maternal or cord blood, were not significantly associated with either maternal or cord blood mercury levels. These data provide further evidence that there are likely IgG biomarkers of mercury-induced immunotoxicity in this population since IgG levels were elevated with increased, and associated with, mercury exposure. However, unlike previous data from adult males and non-pregnant females, we found no evidence that antinuclear and antinucleolar autoantibody titer is a reliable biomarker of mercury immunotoxicity in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer F Nyland
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205 USA
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, 6439 Garner’s Ferry Road, Columbia, SC, 29209 USA
- Corresponding author/current address: University of South Carolina School of Medicine, 6439 Garner’s Ferry Road, Building 1, Room B10, Columbia, SC 29209 USA, 1- (803) 216-3416 – phone, 1- (803) 733-1515 – fax,
| | - Susie B Wang
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205 USA
| | - Devon L Shirley
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, 6439 Garner’s Ferry Road, Columbia, SC, 29209 USA
| | - Elisabeth O Santos
- Institue Evandro Chagas, Fundaçao Nacional da Saúde, Belem do Pará-66090, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria Ventura
- Institue Evandro Chagas, Fundaçao Nacional da Saúde, Belem do Pará-66090, Brazil
| | - Jose M de Souza
- Institue Evandro Chagas, Fundaçao Nacional da Saúde, Belem do Pará-66090, Brazil
| | - Ellen K Silbergeld
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205 USA
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Donaldson SG, Van Oostdam J, Tikhonov C, Feeley M, Armstrong B, Ayotte P, Boucher O, Bowers W, Chan L, Dallaire F, Dallaire R, Dewailly E, Edwards J, Egeland GM, Fontaine J, Furgal C, Leech T, Loring E, Muckle G, Nancarrow T, Pereg D, Plusquellec P, Potyrala M, Receveur O, Shearer RG. Environmental contaminants and human health in the Canadian Arctic. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2010; 408:5165-5234. [PMID: 20728918 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2010.04.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2009] [Revised: 04/23/2010] [Accepted: 04/29/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The third Canadian Arctic Human Health Assessment conducted under the Canadian Northern Contaminants Program (NCP), in association with the circumpolar Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme (AMAP), addresses concerns about possible adverse health effects in individuals exposed to environmental contaminants through a diet containing country foods. The objectives here are to: 1) provide data on changes in human contaminant concentrations and exposure among Canadian Arctic peoples; 2) identify new contaminants of concern; 3) discuss possible health effects; 4) outline risk communication about contaminants in country food; and 5) identify knowledge gaps for future contaminant research and monitoring. The nutritional and cultural benefits of country foods are substantial; however, some dietary studies suggest declines in the amount of country foods being consumed. Significant declines were found for most contaminants in maternal blood over the last 10 years within all three Arctic regions studied. Inuit continue to have the highest levels of almost all persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and metals among the ethnic groups studied. A greater proportion of people in the East exceed Health Canada's guidelines for PCBs and mercury, although the proportion of mothers exceeding these guidelines has decreased since the previous assessment. Further monitoring and research are required to assess trends and health effects of emerging contaminants. Infant development studies have shown possible subtle effects of prenatal exposure to heavy metals and some POPs on immune system function and neurodevelopment. New data suggest important beneficial effects on brain development for Inuit infants from some country food nutrients. The most successful risk communication processes balance the risks and benefits of a diet of country food through input from a variety of regional experts and the community, to incorporate the many socio-cultural and economic factors to arrive at a risk management decision that will be the most beneficial in Arctic communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- S G Donaldson
- Chemicals Surveillance Bureau, HECSB, Health Canada, 269 Laurier Ave West, Ottawa, ON, Canada K1A 0K9
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31
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Pan IJ, Daniels JL, Herring AH, Rogan WJ, Siega-Riz AM, Goldman BD, Sjödin A. Lactational exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, and dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene and infant growth: an analysis of the Pregnancy, Infection, and Nutrition Babies Study. Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol 2010; 24:262-71. [PMID: 20415756 PMCID: PMC2872251 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3016.2010.01114.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), 2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)-1,1,1-trichloroethane (p,p'-DDT) and 2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)-1,1-dichloroethylene (p,p'-DDE), the most stable metabolite of p,p'-DDT, are persistent organic pollutants and environmental endocrine disruptors. Infant exposure to these chemicals through breast feeding may influence children's growth, but this potential adverse effect could be complicated by the coexisting benefits of breast feeding. This study examined the associations between lactational exposure to these chemicals and infant growth in the first 12 months by using data from the Pregnancy, Infection and Nutrition Babies Study in central North Carolina, United States, 2004-06. The study population was restricted to the infants who were breast fed for 6 months or longer. PCBs, p,p'-DDT and p,p'-DDE were measured in breast milk at 3 months postpartum. Lactational exposure up to 12 months of age was estimated as the product of chemical concentrations and the duration of breast feeding. The infant's weight and length were recorded from the medical record for each routine paediatric well-child visit in the first 12 months. Women-child pairs who breast fed for 6 months or longer and returned the growth card (n = 210) were included in the study. Linear mixed effects models were used to assess the associations between chemical concentrations in breast milk and longitudinal infant weight and length measurements in the first 6 months. Multivariable linear regression models were used to assess the relationships between lactational exposure to chemicals until 12 months of age and the z-scores of infant weight, length and weight-for-length at 12 months. Overall, no association was observed. Breast feeding for 6 months or longer, with lactational exposure to PCBs, p,p'-DDT and p,p'-DDE at the low background level concentrations studied here, resulted in no measurable influence on infant growth in the first 12 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- I-Jen Pan
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Julie L. Daniels
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA,Department of Maternal and Child Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Amy H. Herring
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA,Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Walter J. Rogan
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Anna Maria Siega-Riz
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA,Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA,Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Barbara D. Goldman
- Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Andreas Sjödin
- Organic Analytical Toxicology Branch, Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA
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Dasari S, Yuan Y. In vivo methylmercury exposure induced long-lasting epileptiform activity in layer II/III neurons in cortical slices from the rat. Toxicol Lett 2010; 193:138-43. [PMID: 20051253 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2009.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2009] [Revised: 12/19/2009] [Accepted: 12/21/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal and postnatal methylmercury (MeHg) exposure has been shown to increase neuronal excitability and seizure susceptibility. To determine if early postnatal MeHg exposure causes a similar effect, we examined changes in field potentials in layer II/III neurons in cortical slices of rat following in vivo MeHg treatment. Rats received 0 (0.9% NaCl), 0.75 mg/kg/day or 1.5mg/kg/day MeHg subcutaneously for 15 or 30 days beginning on postnatal day 5, after which cortical slices were prepared for field potential recordings. In slices from rats treated with vehicle, single pulse stimulation of layer IV of cortical slices induced a typical field excitatory postsynaptic potential (fEPSP) with a single spike. This type of fEPSPs was also seen in slices from rats with 15 day treatment with 0.75 mg/kg/day or 1.5mg/kg/day MeHg. However, 30-day treatment with either MeHg dose resulted in fEPSPs with multiple spikes (epileptiform activity) in 40% of animals examined. This epileptiform activity remained observable in 50-60% animals in which MeHg exposure had been terminated for 30 days. However, slices from control animals still showed fEPSPs with single spike. Thus, these data suggest that postnatal MeHg exposure in vivo altered neuronal excitability and induced a long-lasting hyperexcitability in cortical neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameera Dasari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824-1317, USA
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Fonnum F, Mariussen E. Mechanisms involved in the neurotoxic effects of environmental toxicants such as polychlorinated biphenyls and brominated flame retardants. J Neurochem 2009; 111:1327-47. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2009.06427.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Jackson LW, Lynch CD, Kostyniak PJ, McGuinness BM, Louis GMB. Prenatal and postnatal exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls and child size at 24 months of age. Reprod Toxicol 2009; 29:25-31. [PMID: 19819326 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2009.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2009] [Revised: 09/17/2009] [Accepted: 09/26/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Research suggests that exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) may result in decreased child growth, though the critical window(s) are unclear. We investigated the association between PCBs and child size at age 24 months (n=44). PCBs were measured in first trimester serum, breast milk, and child serum at age 24 months, and dichotomized at the median. Age- and gender-specific z-scores were calculated for anthropometric measures. Using linear regression, we observed no significant changes in z-scores with prenatal or postnatal serum PCB concentrations. PCB-77 in breast milk was associated with a significant decrease in z-score for length. To our knowledge, this study is the first to examine child size in relation to PCBs measured early in pregnancy, as well as quantifying a far greater number of congeners. Further research is needed to clarify critical windows, congener-specific effects, and effect modification by sex in relation to PCBs and child anthropometric measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila W Jackson
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, WG37, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106-4945, United States.
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35
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Stavenes Andersen I, Voie OA, Fonnum F, Mariussen E. Effects of methyl mercury in combination with polychlorinated biphenyls and brominated flame retardants on the uptake of glutamate in rat brain synaptosomes: a mathematical approach for the study of mixtures. Toxicol Sci 2009; 112:175-84. [PMID: 19700605 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfp178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory limit values for toxicants are in general determined by the toxicology of the single compounds. However, little is known about their combined effects. Methyl mercury (MeHg), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are dominant contaminants in the environment and food. MeHg is a well known neurotoxicant, especially affecting the developing brain. There is increasing evidence that PCB and BFRs also have neurotoxic effects. An enhanced effect of these toxicants, due to either synergistic or additive effects, would be considered as a risk for the fetal development. Here we studied the combinatorial effects of MeHg in combination with PCB or BFR on the reuptake of glutamate in synaptosomes. To provide the optimal conclusion regarding type of interaction, we have analyzed the data using two mathematical models, the Löewe model of additivity and Bliss' model of independent action. Binary and ternary mixtures in different proportions were made. The toxicants had primarily additive effects, as shown with both models, although tendencies towards synergism were observed. MeHg was by far the most potent inhibitor of uptake with an EC(50) value of 0.33 microM. A reconstituted mixture from a relevant fish sample was made in order to elucidate which chemical was responsible for the observed effect. Some interaction was experienced between PCB and MeHg, but in general MeHg seemed to explain the observed effect. We also show that mixture effects should not be assessed by effect addition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Stavenes Andersen
- University of Oslo, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, NO-0317 Oslo, Norway
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36
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Castoldi AF, Johansson C, Onishchenko N, Coccini T, Roda E, Vahter M, Ceccatelli S, Manzo L. Human developmental neurotoxicity of methylmercury and variables. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2008.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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37
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Weihe P, Kato K, Calafat AM, Nielsen F, Wanigatunga AA, Needham LL, Grandjean P. Serum concentrations of polyfluoroalkyl compounds in Faroese whale meat consumers. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2008; 42:6291-5. [PMID: 18767701 PMCID: PMC2543091 DOI: 10.1021/es800695m] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
To learn the extent of human exposure to polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFCs) in a remote fishing population, we measured, in Faroese children and pregnant women, the serum concentrations of nine PFCs, including perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanoate (PFOA), and perfluorononanoate (PFNA), by using online solid-phase extraction coupled to isotope dilution high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The serum samples analyzed had been collected between 1993 and 2005 from 103 children 7 years of age, 79 of these children at 14 years of age, and from 12 pregnant women and their children 5 years later. PFOS was detected in all samples analyzed, and both PFOA and PFNA were detected in all but one of the samples. The concentrations found are comparable tothose reported elsewhere. Correlations between paired concentrations were poor. However, PFOS and PFNA concentrations correlated well with the frequency of pilotwhale dinners and with concentrations of mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls. One whale meal every two weeks increased the PFOS concentration in 14-year-olds by about 25% and PFNA by 50%. The high frequency of detection of most PFCs suggests widespread exposure in the Faroe Islands already by the early 1990s, with whale meat being an important source.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pal Weihe
- Faroese Hospital System, Torshavn, Faroe Islands
- Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Kayoko Kato
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Antonia M. Calafat
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Flemming Nielsen
- Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Amal A. Wanigatunga
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Larry L. Needham
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Philippe Grandjean
- Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- * Philippe Grandjean, MD, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Landmark Center, 3-102E, 401 Park Drive, Boston, MA 02215, Telephone: (617) 384-8908, Fax: (617) 384-8994, E-mail:
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Dórea JG. Persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic substances in fish: human health considerations. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2008; 400:93-114. [PMID: 18653214 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2008.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2008] [Revised: 06/09/2008] [Accepted: 06/12/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Fish are important dietary items that provide essential nutrients. Fish however, bioaccumulate monomethyl mercury (MMHg) and organo-halogenated pollutants (OHP) that are persistent bioaccumulative and toxic substances (PBTS). Unlike man-made OHP, MMHg is mainly of natural origin but background concentrations of aquatic systems are determined by the environmental Hg-methylating potential. Industrial activities can modulate environmental discharges and fish bioaccumulation of PBTS. Fish and seafood consumption are associated with human body load of PBTS, but farming practices that utilize fishmeal increase the terrestrial food chain resulting in farm-animal accumulation of PBTS. These substances are neurotoxic and endocrine active that can impact humans and wild life, but chemical characteristics of MMHg and OHP modulate interactions with animal tissues. MMHg is protein reactive with a faster metabolism (months) than OHP that are stored and slowly (years) metabolized in fat tissues. Except for brain-Hg, neither Hg nor OHP in tissues are markers of toxic effects; however, deficits in neurobehavioral test-scores of children have been shown in some fish-eating populations. These deficits are transient and within normal range, and are not prodromes of neurological diseases. Although population studies show that consumption of fish at current levels of contamination do not explain neurological disorders, endocrine activity remains controversial. Understanding risk of hazard caused by fish-PBTS consumption requires a wide range of expertise. We discuss chemical, toxic, metabolic, and ecological characteristics associated with PBTS in fish. There are proven health outcome derived from fish consumption, while risk of exposure to avoidable PBTS is a chance that can be minimized by societal actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- José G Dórea
- Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil.
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Ling B, Alcorn J. Acute administration of cefepime lowers L-carnitine concentrations in early lactation stage rat milk. J Nutr 2008; 138:1317-22. [PMID: 18567754 DOI: 10.1093/jn/138.7.1317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Our study investigated the potential for important in vivo drug-nutrient transport interactions at the lactating mammary gland using the L-carnitine transporter substrates, cefepime and L-carnitine, as proof-of-concept. On d 4 (n = 6/treatment) and d 10 (n = 6/treatment) of lactation, rats were administered cefepime (250 mg/h) or saline by continuous i.v. infusion (4 h). Serum and milk L-carnitine and cefepime concentrations were quantified by HPLC-UV. In whole mammary gland, organic cation/carnitine transporter (OCTN)1, OCTN2, OCTN3, amino acid transporter B(0,+) (ATB(0,+)), and L-carnitine transporter 2 expression were determined by quantitative RT-PCR and by western blot and immunohistochemistry when possible. Cefepime caused a 56% decrease in milk L-carnitine concentrations on lactation d 4 (P = 0.0048) but did not affect milk L-carnitine at lactation d 10 or serum L-carnitine concentrations at either time. The mean L-carnitine and cefepime milk:serum ratios (M/S) decreased from 9.1 +/- 0.4 to 4.9 +/- 0.6 (P < 0.0001) and 0.89 +/- 0.3 to 0.12 +/- 0.02 (P = 0.0473), respectively, between d 4 and d 10 of lactation. In both groups, OCTN2 (P < 0.0001), OCTN3 (P = 0.0039), and ATB(0,+) (P = 0.004) mRNA expression and OCTN2 protein (P < 0.0001) were higher in mammary glands at d 4 of lactation compared with d 10. Immunohistochemistry revealed OCTN1 and OCTN2 localization in the mammary alveolar epithelium and OCTN3 expression in the interstitial space and blood vessel endothelium. In conclusion, cefepime significantly decreased milk L-carnitine concentrations only at d 4 of lactation. Relative to d 10, enhanced expression of OCTN2 and ATB(0,+) in mammary glands at d 4 of lactation and higher M/S (L-carnitine and cefepime) suggests cefepime competes with L-carnitine for L-carnitine transporters expressed in the lactating mammary gland to adversely affect L-carnitine milk concentrations and these effects depend upon lactation stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binbing Ling
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5C9 Canada
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40
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Wigle DT, Arbuckle TE, Turner MC, Bérubé A, Yang Q, Liu S, Krewski D. Epidemiologic evidence of relationships between reproductive and child health outcomes and environmental chemical contaminants. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2008; 11:373-517. [PMID: 18074303 DOI: 10.1080/10937400801921320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 281] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
This review summarizes the level of epidemiologic evidence for relationships between prenatal and/or early life exposure to environmental chemical contaminants and fetal, child, and adult health. Discussion focuses on fetal loss, intrauterine growth restriction, preterm birth, birth defects, respiratory and other childhood diseases, neuropsychological deficits, premature or delayed sexual maturation, and certain adult cancers linked to fetal or childhood exposures. Environmental exposures considered here include chemical toxicants in air, water, soil/house dust and foods (including human breast milk), and consumer products. Reports reviewed here included original epidemiologic studies (with at least basic descriptions of methods and results), literature reviews, expert group reports, meta-analyses, and pooled analyses. Levels of evidence for causal relationships were categorized as sufficient, limited, or inadequate according to predefined criteria. There was sufficient epidemiological evidence for causal relationships between several adverse pregnancy or child health outcomes and prenatal or childhood exposure to environmental chemical contaminants. These included prenatal high-level methylmercury (CH(3)Hg) exposure (delayed developmental milestones and cognitive, motor, auditory, and visual deficits), high-level prenatal exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), and related toxicants (neonatal tooth abnormalities, cognitive and motor deficits), maternal active smoking (delayed conception, preterm birth, fetal growth deficit [FGD] and sudden infant death syndrome [SIDS]) and prenatal environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure (preterm birth), low-level childhood lead exposure (cognitive deficits and renal tubular damage), high-level childhood CH(3)Hg exposure (visual deficits), high-level childhood exposure to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) (chloracne), childhood ETS exposure (SIDS, new-onset asthma, increased asthma severity, lung and middle ear infections, and adult breast and lung cancer), childhood exposure to biomass smoke (lung infections), and childhood exposure to outdoor air pollutants (increased asthma severity). Evidence for some proven relationships came from investigation of relatively small numbers of children with high-dose prenatal or early childhood exposures, e.g., CH(3)Hg poisoning episodes in Japan and Iraq. In contrast, consensus on a causal relationship between incident asthma and ETS exposure came only recently after many studies and prolonged debate. There were many relationships supported by limited epidemiologic evidence, ranging from several studies with fairly consistent findings and evidence of dose-response relationships to those where 20 or more studies provided inconsistent or otherwise less than convincing evidence of an association. The latter included childhood cancer and parental or childhood exposures to pesticides. In most cases, relationships supported by inadequate epidemiologic evidence reflect scarcity of evidence as opposed to strong evidence of no effect. This summary points to three main needs: (1) Where relationships between child health and environmental exposures are supported by sufficient evidence of causal relationships, there is a need for (a) policies and programs to minimize population exposures and (b) population-based biomonitoring to track exposure levels, i.e., through ongoing or periodic surveys with measurements of contaminant levels in blood, urine and other samples. (2) For relationships supported by limited evidence, there is a need for targeted research and policy options ranging from ongoing evaluation of evidence to proactive actions. (3) There is a great need for population-based, multidisciplinary and collaborative research on the many relationships supported by inadequate evidence, as these represent major knowledge gaps. Expert groups faced with evaluating epidemiologic evidence of potential causal relationships repeatedly encounter problems in summarizing the available data. A major driver for undertaking such summaries is the need to compensate for the limited sample sizes of individual epidemiologic studies. Sample size limitations are major obstacles to exploration of prenatal, paternal, and childhood exposures during specific time windows, exposure intensity, exposure-exposure or exposure-gene interactions, and relatively rare health outcomes such as childhood cancer. Such research needs call for investments in research infrastructure, including human resources and methods development (standardized protocols, biomarker research, validated exposure metrics, reference analytic laboratories). These are needed to generate research findings that can be compared and subjected to pooled analyses aimed at knowledge synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald T Wigle
- McLaughlin Centre for Population Health Risk Assessment, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
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Abstract
Dietary fat intake in pregnancy and lactation affects pregnancy outcomes and child growth, development and health. The European Commission charged the research project PERILIP, jointly with the Early Nutrition Programming Project, to develop recommendations on dietary fat intake in pregnancy and lactation. Literature reviews were performed and a consensus conference held with international experts in the field, including representatives of international scientific associations. The adopted conclusions include: dietary fat intake in pregnancy and lactation (energy%) should be as recommended for the general population; pregnant and lactating women should aim to achieve an average dietary intake of at least 200 mg DHA/d; intakes of up to 1 g/d DHA or 2.7 g/d n-3 long-chain PUFA have been used in randomized clinical trials without significant adverse effects; women of childbearing age should aim to consume one to two portions of sea fish per week, including oily fish; intake of the DHA precursor, alpha-linolenic acid, is far less effective with regard to DHA deposition in fetal brain than preformed DHA; intake of fish or other sources of long-chain n-3 fatty acids results in a slightly longer pregnancy duration; dietary inadequacies should be screened for during pregnancy and individual counselling be offered if needed.
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Abstract
Hg and Pb are of public health concern due to their toxic effects on vulnerable fetuses, persistence in pregnant and breast-feeding mothers, and widespread occurrence in the environment. To diminish maternal and infant exposure to Hg and Pb, it is necessary to establish guidelines based on an understanding of the environmental occurrence of these metals and the manner in which they reach the developing human organism. In the present review, environmental exposure, acquisition and storage of these metals via maternal–infant interaction are systematically presented. Though Hg and Pb are dispersed throughout the environment, the risk of exposure to infants is primarily influenced by maternal dietary habits, metal speciation and interaction with nutritional status. Hg and Pb possess similar adverse effects on the central nervous system, but they have environmental and metabolic differences that modulate their toxicity and neurobehavioural outcome in infant exposure during fetal development. Hg is mainly found in protein matrices of animal flesh (especially fish and shellfish), whereas Pb is mainly found in osseous structures. The potential of maternal acquisition is higher and lasts longer for Pb than for Hg. Pb stored in bone has a longer half-life than monomethyl-mercury acquired from fish. Both metals appear in breast milk as a fraction of the levels found in maternal blood supplied to the fetus during gestation. Habitual diets consumed by lactating mothers pose no health hazard to breast-fed infants. Instead, cows' milk-based formulas pose a greater risk of infant exposure to neurotoxic substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- José G Dorea
- Laboratório de Bioquímica Nutricional, Departamento de Nutrição, C.P. 04322, Universidade de Brasilia, 70919.970 Brasilia, Brazil.
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43
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Mariussen E, Fonnum F. Neurochemical targets and behavioral effects of organohalogen compounds: an update. Crit Rev Toxicol 2006; 36:253-89. [PMID: 16686424 DOI: 10.1080/10408440500534164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Organohalogen compounds (OHCs) have been used and still are used extensively as pesticides, flame retardants, hydraulic fluids, and in other industrial applications. These compounds are stable, most often lipophilic, and may therefore easily biomagnify. Today these compounds are found distributed both in human tissue, including breast milk, and in wildlife animals. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, high levels of the polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and the pesticide dichlorodiphenyl trichloroethane (DDT) were detected in the environment. In the 1970s it was discovered that PCBs and some chlorinated pesticides, such as lindane, have neurotoxic potentials after both acute and chronic exposure. Although the use of PCBs, DDT, and other halogenated pesticides has been reduced, and environmental levels of these compounds are slowly diminishing, other halogenated compounds with potential of toxic effects are being found in the environment. These include the brominated flame retardants, chlorinated paraffins (PCAs), and perfluorinated compounds, whose levels are increasing. It is now established that several OHCs have neurobehavioral effects, indicating adverse effects on the central nervous system (CNS). For instance, several reports have shown that OHCs alter neurotransmitter functions in CNS and Ca2+ homeostatic processes, induce protein kinase C (PKC) and phospholipase A2 (PLA2) mobilization, and induce oxidative stress. In this review we summarize the findings of the neurobehavioral and neurochemical effects of some of the major OHCs with our main focus on the PCBs. Further, we try to elucidate, on the basis of available literature, the possible implications of these findings on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Mariussen
- Norwegian Institute for Air Research, Kjeller, Norway.
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44
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Hylander LD, Goodsite ME. Environmental costs of mercury pollution. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2006; 368:352-70. [PMID: 16442592 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2005.11.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2004] [Revised: 11/03/2005] [Accepted: 11/29/2005] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) has been used for millennia in many applications, primarily in artisanal mining and as an electrode in the chlor-alkali industry. It is anthropogenically emitted as a pollutant from coal fired power plants and naturally emitted, primarily from volcanoes. Its unique chemical characteristics enable global atmospheric transport and it is deposited after various processes, ultimately ending up in one of its final sinks, such as incorporated into deep sediment or bioaccumulated, primarily in the marine environment. All forms of Hg have been established as toxic, and there have been no noted biological benefits from the metal. Throughout time, there have been notable incidents of Hg intoxication documented, and the negative health effects have been documented to those chronically or acutely exposed. Today, exposure to Hg is largely diet or occupationally dependent, however, many are exposed to Hg from their amalgam fillings. This paper puts a tentative monetary value on Hg polluted food sources in the Arctic, where local, significant pollution sources are limited, and relates this to costs for strategies avoiding Hg pollution and to remediation costs of contaminated sites in Sweden and Japan. The case studies are compiled to help policy makers and the public to evaluate whether the benefits to the global environment from banning Hg and limiting its initial emission outweigh the benefits from its continued use or lack of control of Hg emissions. The cases we studied are relevant for point pollution sources globally and their remediation costs ranged between 2,500 and 1.1 million US dollars kg(-1) Hg isolated from the biosphere. Therefore, regulations discontinuing mercury uses combined with extensive flue gas cleaning for all power plants and waste incinerators is cost effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars D Hylander
- Department of Earth Sciences, Air and Water Science, Uppsala University, Villavägen 16, S-752 36 Uppsala, Sweden.
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45
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Roegge CS, Schantz SL. Motor function following developmental exposure to PCBS and/or MEHG. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2006; 28:260-77. [PMID: 16487679 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2005.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2005] [Revised: 12/16/2005] [Accepted: 12/20/2005] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies raise concern for combined exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and methylmercury (MeHg), two environmental contaminants that are found in fish and seafood. Past accidental poisonings in humans show that exposure to high levels of either contaminant is associated with motor impairments, including alterations in cerebellar functions such as balance and coordination. Epidemiological studies of lower level exposures suggest some neuromotor impairment in exposed children, but the majority of these studies have focused on cognitive endpoints rather than examining a full-range of motor function. In particular, the cerebellum could be a sensitive target for combined PCB and MeHg toxicity. MeHg exposure during development damages the cerebellum along with cortical areas, and PCBs may also cause cerebellar damage via thyroid hormone disruption during development. In addition, in vitro studies report interactive effects of PCBs and MeHg on ryanodine-sensitive calcium signaling. Ryanodine receptors are found especially within the cerebellum, and alterations in calcium signaling within the cerebellum could impair long-term depression and subsequent motor learning. This article reviews the motor impairments reported in humans and laboratory animals following exposure to PCBs and/or MeHg during development. There is need for a better understanding of the interactive effects of PCBs and MeHg, especially in regard to motor function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy S Roegge
- Psychiatry Department, Duke University Medical Center, Box 3415 Bell Building, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
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46
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Barr DB, Weihe P, Davis MD, Needham LL, Grandjean P. Serum polychlorinated biphenyl and organochlorine insecticide concentrations in a Faroese birth cohort. CHEMOSPHERE 2006; 62:1167-82. [PMID: 16169054 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2005.06.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2005] [Revised: 05/06/2005] [Accepted: 06/25/2005] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
A prospective birth cohort of 1022 participants was established in the Faroe Islands over a 21-month period during 1986-1987. We collected questionnaire data on potential persistent organic pollutant (POP) concentration predictors, such as duration of breastfeeding and blubber consumption. To assess the participants' exposure from in utero to 14 years of age to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and the insecticide p,p'-DDT and its primary degradate p,p'-DDE, we measured 37 PCB congeners and pesticides in 316 umbilical cord samples taken from participants at birth, in 124 serum samples collected from participants at approximately 7 years of age, and in 795 serum samples collected from participants at 14 years of age. Measurements of higher chlorination PCB congeners made on individuals' serum samples collected at 7 years and 14 years were highly correlated (typically r > 0.5, p > 0.01), although their concentrations at 7 years were generally two to three times higher than at 14 years. Similarly, umbilical cord PCB concentrations were correlated with PCB concentrations in both 7- and 14-year serum samples. Sex-specific differences in higher chlorination PCB and p,p'-DDE concentrations were found at 14 years but not at 7 years, although a sex interaction with blubber consumption and nursing duration was observed at both ages. Both duration of breastfeeding and consumption of blubber were significant predictors of serum summationPCB concentrations at 7 and 14 years. Multivariate analyses showed that breastfeeding duration was the primary contributor to serum summationPCB concentrations at 7 years, and blubber consumption was the primary contributor at 14 years. These data suggest that infant exposures from breastfeeding were sufficiently large so that continued exposures to PCBs, p,p'-DDT, and p,p'-DDE through the diet have not fully diluted their contribution to the summationPCB and p,p'-DDE body burden of the children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana B Barr
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Highway, Mailstop F17, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA.
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Opinion of the Scientific Panel on contaminants in the food chain [CONTAM] related to the presence of non dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) in feed and food. EFSA J 2005. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2005.284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
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Weiss B, Stern S, Cernichiari E, Gelein R. Methylmercury contamination of laboratory animal diets. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2005; 113:1120-2. [PMID: 16140614 PMCID: PMC1280388 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.7816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
In the midst of research focusing on the neurodevelopmental effects of mercury vapor in rats, we detected significant levels of mercury (30-60 ng/g) in the blood of nonexposed control subjects. We determined that the dominant form of the mercury was organic and that the standard laboratory chow we used in our vivarium was the source of the contamination. The dietary levels were deemed of potential biologic significance, even though they might have fallen below the limits of measurement specified by the supplier. All investigators employing animals in research must assess such potential contamination because dietary agents may alter a) conclusions based on intentionally administered doses, b) outcomes by interacting with other agents that are the primary focus of the research, and c) outcomes of research unrelated to the toxic effects of experimentally administered agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard Weiss
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642, USA.
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Jensen TK, Grandjean P, Jørgensen EB, White RF, Debes F, Weihe P. Effects of breast feeding on neuropsychological development in a community with methylmercury exposure from seafood. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE ANALYSIS AND ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2005; 15:423-30. [PMID: 15674318 DOI: 10.1038/sj.jea.7500420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
Breastfeeding has been associated with an advantage to infant neurobehavioral development, possibly in part due to essential nutrients in breast milk. However, breast milk may be contaminated by environmental neurotoxicants, such as methylmercury. In the Faroe Islands, where maternal consumption of pilot whale may cause transfer of marine toxicants into breast milk, a cohort of 1022 consecutive singleton births was generated during 1986-87. Methylmercury exposure was assessed from mercury concentrations in cord blood and in the hair of the child at age 12 months, and the duration of breastfeeding was recorded. At approximately 7 years of age, 917 (90%) of the children underwent detailed neurobehavioral examination. After adjustment for confounders, breastfeeding was associated with only marginally better neuropsychological performance on most tests. These associations were robust even after adjustment for cord-blood and hair mercury concentration at age 1 year. Thus, in this cohort of children with a relatively high prenatal toxicant exposure and potential exposure to neurotoxicants through breast milk, breastfeeding was associated with less benefits on neurobehavioral development than previously published studies though not associated with a deficit in neuropsychological performance at age 7. Although the advantage may be less, Faroese women can still safely breastfeed their children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Kold Jensen
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense C, Denmark.
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