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Wheeler S, Rai-Bhogal R, Crawford DA. Abnormal Microglial Density and Morphology in the Brain of Cyclooxygenase 2 Knockin Mice. Neuroscience 2023; 534:66-81. [PMID: 37863307 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2023.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is a signaling molecule produced by cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) that is important in healthy brain development. Anomalies in the COX-2/PGE2 pathway due to genetic or environmental factors have been linked to Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Our previous studies showed that COX-2 deficient (COX-2-KI) mice exhibit sex-dependent molecular changes in the brain and associated autism-related behaviors. Here, we aim to determine the effect of COX-2-KI on microglial density and morphology in the developing brain. Microglia normally transition between an amoeboid or ramified morphology depending on their surroundings and are important for the development of the healthy brain, assisting with synaptogenesis, synaptic pruning, and phagocytosis. We use COX-2-KI male and female mice to evaluate microglia density, morphology, and branch length and number in five brain regions (cerebellum, hippocampus, olfactory bulb, prefrontal cortex, and thalamus) at the gestational day 19 (G19) and postnatal day 25 (PN25). We discovered that COX2-KI females were affected at G19 with increased microglial density, altered percentage of amoeboid and ramified microglia, affected branch length, and decreased branching networks in a region-specific manner; these effects persisted to PN25 in select regions. Interestingly, while limited changes were found in G19 COX-2-KI males, at PN25 we found increased microglial density, higher percentages of ramified microglia, and increased branch counts, and length observed in nearly all brain regions tested. Overall, we show for the first time that the COX-2 deficiency in our ASD mouse model influences microglia morphology in a sex- and region- and stage-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Wheeler
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada; Neuroscience Graduate Diploma Program, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
| | | | - Dorota A Crawford
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada; Neuroscience Graduate Diploma Program, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada; Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada.
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2
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Bilgeç N, Balasar Ö, Uzun N, Pekcan S, Bedel FM, Çaksen H. Case of twin achondroplasia and autism coexistence and literature review. Psychiatr Genet 2023; 33:243-250. [PMID: 37706508 DOI: 10.1097/ypg.0000000000000350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Achondroplasia and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are two genetically based disorders. The coexistence of autism with chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome, monogenic syndromes such as tuberous sclerosis, Fragile X, and Rett syndrome, and microdeletion syndromes such as Phelan-McDermid syndrome helps to shed light on the genetic basis of autism spectrum disorder. The association between ASD and achondroplasia has been reported twice in the literature. In this article, we report Turkish patients who were born as identical twins from IVF pregnancy of 34 and 36-year-old parents, clinically and molecularly diagnosed with achondroplasia, and diagnosed with ASD at the age of 39 months. Our case is the first twin patient with the coexistence of achondroplasia and autism. We discuss environmental and genetic factors contributing to the development of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagehan Bilgeç
- Department of Pediatric Genetics, Necmettin Erbakan University, Meram Faculty of Medicine
| | | | - Necati Uzun
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
| | - Sevgi Pekcan
- Department of Pediatric Pulmonology, Necmettin Erbakan University, Meram Faculty of Medicine, Konya, Turkey
| | - Fayize Maden Bedel
- Department of Pediatric Genetics, Necmettin Erbakan University, Meram Faculty of Medicine
| | - Hüseyin Çaksen
- Department of Pediatric Genetics, Necmettin Erbakan University, Meram Faculty of Medicine
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3
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Botsas G, Koidou E, Chatzinikolaou K, Grouios G. Environmental Influences on Individuals with Autistic Spectrum Disorders with Special Emphasis on Seasonality: An Overview. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1851. [PMID: 38136053 PMCID: PMC10742301 DOI: 10.3390/children10121851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
This paper offers an in-depth exploration of the intricate relationship between environmental factors and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), with a special emphasis on seasonality. It reviews existing research, providing a comprehensive summary of findings and highlighting the multifaceted dimensions of several environmental factors influencing the etiology of ASD. The discussion encompasses various elements, including birth months, maternal health, dietary choices, and vitamin D deficiency, delving into the intricate interplay of seasonality with environmental influences such as viral infections and solar radiation. The present study raises essential questions regarding the timing of environmental influences and the factors contributing to the rising prevalence of ASD. Ultimately, it underscores the need for future epidemiological research to incorporate more extensive investigations of environmental risk factors and employ advanced statistical analyses. This comprehensive overview contributes to a deeper understanding of how environmental factors, particularly seasonality, may be linked to the occurrence of ASD and its increasing prevalence, recognizing the multifaceted and diverse nature of these interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Botsas
- Department of Early Childhood and Care, School of Social Sciences, International Hellenic University, 57400 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Department of Education, School of Education and Social Sciences, Frederick University, 3080 Limassol, Cyprus
| | - Eirini Koidou
- Department of Human Performance, School of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.K.); (K.C.); (G.G.)
| | - Konstantinos Chatzinikolaou
- Department of Human Performance, School of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.K.); (K.C.); (G.G.)
| | - George Grouios
- Department of Human Performance, School of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.K.); (K.C.); (G.G.)
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Yang Y, Shen Y, Lin J, Dai S, Lu X, Xun G, Li Y, Wu R, Xia K, Luo X, Zhao J, Ou J. Association between history of miscarriage and autism spectrum disorder. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2023; 273:687-697. [PMID: 36251093 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-022-01494-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
This case-control study was designed to examine the association between different types of miscarriage history and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and determine whether the number of miscarriage history affects the risk of ASD. All of 2274 children with ASD and 1086 healthy controls were recruited. Sociodemographic and prenatal, perinatal, and neonatal characteristics were compared between the two groups. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were applied to investigate association between miscarriage history and ASD. Stratified analyses based on sex and types of miscarriages were similarly performed. History of miscarriage was potential risk factors for ASD ([aOR] = 2.919; 95% [CI] = 2.327-3.517). Stratified analyses revealed that induced ([aOR] = 2.763, 95% [CI] = 2.259-3.379) and spontaneous miscarriage history ([aOR] = 3.341, 95% [CI] = 1.939-4.820) were associated with high risk of ASD, respectively. A sex-biased ratio in the risk of ASD was observed between females ([aOR] = 3.049, 95% [CI] = 2.153-4.137) and males ([aOR] = 2.538, 95% [CI] = 1.978-3.251). Stratified analysis of induced miscarriage history revealed that only iatrogenic miscarriage history was associated with an increased risk ASD ([aOR] = 2.843, 95% [CI] = 1.534-4.268). Also, multiple spontaneous miscarriage histories ([aOR] = 1.836, 95% [CI] = 1.252-2.693) were associated with higher autism risk than one spontaneous miscarriages history ([aOR] = 3.016, 95% [CI] = 1.894-4.174). In conclusion, miscarriage history is related to an increased risk for ASD in offspring, which is affected by the types of miscarriage and sex of the fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Yang
- Department of Psychiatry, and National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Yidong Shen
- Department of Psychiatry, and National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Jingjing Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, and National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Si Dai
- Department of Psychiatry, and National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaozi Lu
- Qingdao Mental Health Center, Qingdao, 266034, Shandong, China
| | - Guanglei Xun
- Shandong Mental Health Center, 49 East Wenhua Road, Jinan, 250014, Shandong, China
| | - Yamin Li
- Clinical Nursing Teaching and Research Section, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Renrong Wu
- Department of Psychiatry, and National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Kun Xia
- Center for Medical Genetics and School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Xuerong Luo
- Department of Psychiatry, and National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Jingping Zhao
- Department of Psychiatry, and National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Jianjun Ou
- Department of Psychiatry, and National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China.
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Shang M, Tang M, Xue Y. Neurodevelopmental toxicity induced by airborne particulate matter. J Appl Toxicol 2023; 43:167-185. [PMID: 35995895 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Airborne particulate matter (PM), the primary component associated with health risks in air pollution, can negatively impact human health. Studies have shown that PM can enter the brain by inhalation, but data on the exact quantity of particles that reach the brain are unknown. Particulate matter exposure can result in neurotoxicity. Exposure to PM poses a greater health risk to infants and children because their nervous systems are not fully developed. This review paper highlights the association between PM and neurodevelopmental toxicity (NDT). Exposure to PM can induce oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially resulting in blood-brain barrier damage and increased susceptibility to development of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD), such as autism spectrum disorders and attention deficit disorders. In addition, human and animal exposure to PM can induce microglia activation and epigenetic alterations and alter the neurotransmitter levels, which may increase risks for development of NDD. However, the systematic comparisons of the effects of PM on NDD at different ages of exposure are deficient. The elucidation of PM exposure risks and NDT in children during the early developmental stages are of great importance. The synthesis of current research may help to identify markers and mechanisms of PM-induced neurodevelopmental toxicity, allowing for the development of strategies to prevent permanent damage of developing brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengting Shang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Meng Tang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuying Xue
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
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Maternal high-fat diet in mice induces cerebrovascular, microglial and long-term behavioural alterations in offspring. Commun Biol 2022; 5:26. [PMID: 35017640 PMCID: PMC8752761 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02947-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Various environmental exposures during pregnancy, like maternal diet, can compromise, at critical periods of development, the neurovascular maturation of the offspring. Foetal exposure to maternal high-fat diet (mHFD), common to Western societies, has been shown to disturb neurovascular development in neonates and long-term permeability of the neurovasculature. Nevertheless, the effects of mHFD on the offspring’s cerebrovascular health remains largely elusive. Here, we sought to address this knowledge gap by using a translational mouse model of mHFD exposure. Three-dimensional and ultrastructure analysis of the neurovascular unit (vasculature and parenchymal cells) in mHFD-exposed offspring revealed major alterations of the neurovascular organization and metabolism. These alterations were accompanied by changes in the expression of genes involved in metabolism and immunity, indicating that neurovascular changes may result from abnormal brain metabolism and immune regulation. In addition, mHFD-exposed offspring showed persisting behavioural alterations reminiscent of neurodevelopmental disorders, specifically an increase in stereotyped and repetitive behaviours into adulthood. In order to advance our understanding of the effects of maternal high-fat diet (mHFD) on the cerebrovascular health of offspring, Bordeleau et al. use a translational mouse model of mHFD exposure. They demonstrate that mHFD induces cerebrovascular and microglial changes in the offspring as well as behavioural alterations that are reminiscent of neurodevelopmental disorders associated with repetitive behaviours at adulthood.
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Mishra S, Roy T, Saini S. Development of the hair cells of the human cochlea: A scanning electron microscopic study. J Microsc Ultrastruct 2022; 11:17-22. [PMID: 37144166 PMCID: PMC10153736 DOI: 10.4103/jmau.jmau_107_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction In the mammalian auditory system, the cochlea is the first to attain structural and functional maturity. Although ultrastructural details of the developing cochlea of lower animals have been elucidated in the last few decades, comprehensive studies on human cochlea are lacking. Materials and Methods In the present investigation we studied the development and maturation of the hair cells of ten human fetal cochlea from gestational weeks (GW) 12 to 37 by scanning electron microscopy. Result We observed undifferentiated hair cells possessing numerous surface projections and long kinocilium during GW 14. At GW16, the primitive hair cells were arranged in one inner and four outer rows and had globular apices indicating the initiation of stereocilia formation. By GW 22, the globular apices were replaced by linear stereocilia and occasional kinocillia. Mature hair cells with sterocilia were observed in the basal turn at 30th week of gestation. At GW 37, the stereocilia were arranged in a typical "V" shaped pattern at the middle and apical coil, while the stereocilia of the basal turn were shorter in length resembling the adult cochlea. The inner hair cells were long and slender while outer hair cells were pear shaped, kinocilium were absent and the tunnel of Corti were well formed. Conclusion It is concluded that in human, the morphological maturation of the hair cells starts in the basal turn around GW 22 and continues till 37th week in the apical turn indicating that early maturation of the cochlea may have a role on development of the higher auditory pathway connections.
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Kissoondoyal A, Rai-Bhogal R, Crawford DA. Abnormal dendritic morphology in the cerebellum of cyclooxygenase-2 - knockin mice. Eur J Neurosci 2021; 54:6355-6373. [PMID: 34510613 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is a bioactive signalling molecule metabolized from the phospholipid membranes by the enzymatic activity of cycloxygenase-2 (COX-2). In the developing brain, COX-2 constitutively regulates the production of PGE2, which is important in neuronal development. However, abnormal COX-2/PGE2 signalling has been linked to neurodevelopmental disorders including autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). We have previously demonstrated that COX-2- -KI mice show autism-related behaviours including social deficits, repetitive behaviours and anxious behaviours. COX-2-deficient mice also have deficits in pathways involved in synaptic transmission and dendritic spine formation. In this study, we use a Golgi-COX staining method to examine sex-dependent differences in dendritic and dendritic spine morphology in neurons of COX-2- -KI mice cerebellum compared with wild-type (WT) matched controls at postnatal day 25 (P25). We show that COX-2- -KI mice have increased dendritic arborization closer to the cell soma and increased dendritic looping. We also observed a sex-dependent effect of the COX-2- -KI on dendritic thickness, dendritic spine density, dendritic spine morphology, and the expression of β-actin and the actin-binding protein spinophilin. Our findings show that changes in COX-2/PGE2 signalling lead to impaired morphology of dendrites and dendritic spines in a sex-dependant manner and may contribute the pathology of the cerebellum seen in individuals with ASD. This study provides further evidence that the COX-2- -KI mouse model can be used to study a subset of ASD pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashby Kissoondoyal
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Neuroscience Graduate Diploma Program, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ravneet Rai-Bhogal
- Neuroscience Graduate Diploma Program, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dorota A Crawford
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Neuroscience Graduate Diploma Program, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Ju J, Yang X, Jiang J, Wang D, Zhang Y, Zhao X, Fang X, Liao H, Zheng L, Li S, Hou ST, Liang L, Pan Y, Li H, Li N. Structural and Lipidomic Alterations of Striatal Myelin in 16p11.2 Deletion Mouse Model of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:718720. [PMID: 34483844 PMCID: PMC8416256 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.718720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Myelin abnormalities have been observed in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In this study, we seek to discover myelin-related changes in the striatum, a key brain region responsible for core ASD features, using the 16p11.2 deletion (16p11.2±) mouse model of ASD. We found downregulated expression of multiple myelin genes and decreased myelin thickness in the striatum of 16p11.2± mice versus wild type controls. Moreover, given that myelin is the main reservoir of brain lipids and that increasing evidence has linked dysregulation of lipid metabolism to ASD, we performed lipidomic analysis and discovered decreased levels of certain species of sphingomyelin, hexosyl ceramide and their common precursor, ceramide, in 16p11.2± striatum, all of which are major myelin components. We further identified lack of ceramide synthase 2 as the possible reason behind the decrease in these lipid species. Taken together, our data suggest a role for myelin and myelin lipids in ASD development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Ju
- Tomas Lindahl Nobel Laureate Laboratory, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiuyan Yang
- Tomas Lindahl Nobel Laureate Laboratory, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jian Jiang
- Tomas Lindahl Nobel Laureate Laboratory, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Dilong Wang
- Tomas Lindahl Nobel Laureate Laboratory, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yumeng Zhang
- Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, Division of Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Xiaofeng Zhao
- Institute of Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Organ Development and Regeneration, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyi Fang
- Department of Neonatology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Huanquan Liao
- The Clinical Neuroscience Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lei Zheng
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shupeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, China
| | - Sheng-Tao Hou
- Brain Research Centre and Department of Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Liyang Liang
- Department of Pediatrics, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yihang Pan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Huiliang Li
- Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, Division of Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ningning Li
- Tomas Lindahl Nobel Laureate Laboratory, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
- China-UK Institute for Frontier Science, Shenzhen, China
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Feige E, Mattingly R, Pitts T, Smith AF. Autism Spectrum Disorder: Investigating Predictive Adaptive Behavior Skill Deficits in Young Children. AUTISM RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2021; 2021:8870461. [PMID: 33604088 PMCID: PMC7868143 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8870461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder that consists of difficulties with social communication and language, as well as the presence of restricted and repetitive behaviors. These deficits tend to present in early childhood and usually lead to impairments in functioning across various settings. Moreover, these deficits have been shown to negatively impact adaptive behavior and functioning. Thus, early diagnosis and intervention is vital for future success within this population. The purpose of this study was to further examine the subscales that comprise the adaptive behavior section of the Bayley®-III to determine which of the ten subscales are predictive of ASD in young children (i.e., ≤ three years of age). A retrospective file review of 273 children participating in Kentucky's early intervention program, First Steps, was completed. The children ranged in age from 18 to 35 months. A binary logistic regression was used to assess the subscales that comprise the adaptive behavior of the section of the Bayley®-III to determine which of the ten subscales are predictive of ASD in young children (i.e., ≤ three years of age). The results indicated that individual lower raw scores in communication, community use, functional preacademics, home living, health and safety, leisure, self-care, self-direction, and social subscales were predictive of an autism diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Feige
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head/Neck Surgery-and Communicative Disorders, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Rhonda Mattingly
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head/Neck Surgery-and Communicative Disorders, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Teresa Pitts
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head/Neck Surgery-and Communicative Disorders, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery; Kentucky Spinal Cord Research Centre, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Alan F. Smith
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head/Neck Surgery-and Communicative Disorders, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
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Prostaglandin E2 Increases Neurite Length and the Formation of Axonal Loops, and Regulates Cone Turning in Differentiating NE4C Cells Via PKA. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2021; 42:1385-1397. [PMID: 33389417 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-020-01029-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is a membrane-derived lipid signaling molecule important in neuronal development. Abnormal levels of PGE2, due to environmental insults prenatal development, have been linked to brain pathologies. We have previously shown that the addition of PGE2 to neuroectodermal (NE4C) stem cells affects early stages of neuronal differentiation (day 0-8) including increased stem cell motility, accelerated formation of neurospheres, and elevated calcium levels in growth cones. In this study, we further examine whether PGE2 can influence actin-dependent neuronal morphology in later stages (day 8-12) of NE4C cell differentiation. We show that exposure to PGE2 from the initiation of differentiation increased neurite length and the proportion of neurites that formed axonal loops. We also observed changes in the proportion of turning growth cones as the differentiation progressed, with a reduced likelihood of observing turning (or asymmetrical) growth cones on day 8 and increased odds on days 10 and 12. Moreover, we showed for the first time that the observed changes in cytoskeletal morphology were PGE2/PKA dependent. Interestingly, we also found that PGE2 decreased the total protein levels of the actin-bound form of spinophilin and increased levels of unbound PKA-phosphorylated ser94-spinophilin. Hence, we propose that exposure to PGE2 can destabilize the actin cytoskeleton at various stages of neuronal differentiation due to dissociation of ser94-spinophilin causing changes in neuronal morphology.
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Farahani M, Rezaei-Tavirani M, Zali A, Zamanian-Azodi M. Systematic Analysis of Protein-Protein and Gene-Environment Interactions to Decipher the Cognitive Mechanisms of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2020; 42:1091-1103. [PMID: 33165687 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-020-00998-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder resulting from both genetic and environmental risk factors, is manifested by deficits in cognitive function. Elucidating the cognitive disorder-relevant biological mechanisms may open up promising therapeutic approaches. In this work, we mined ASD cognitive phenotype proteins to construct and analyze protein-protein and gene-environment interaction networks. Incorporating the protein-protein interaction (PPI), human cognition proteins, and connections of autism-cognition proteins enabled us to generate an autism-cognition network (ACN). With the topological analysis of ACN, important proteins, highly clustered modules, and 3-node motifs were identified. Moreover, the impact of environmental exposures in cognitive impairment was investigated through chemicals that target the cognition-related proteins. Functional enrichment analysis of the ACN-associated modules and chemical targets revealed biological processes involved in the cognitive deficits of ASD. Among the 17 identified hub-bottlenecks in the ACN, PSD-95 was recognized as an important protein through analyzing the module and motif interactions. PSD-95 and its interacting partners constructed a cognitive-specific module. This hub-bottleneck interacted with the 89 cognition-related 3-node motifs. The identification of gene-environment interactions indicated that most of the cognitive-related proteins interact with bisphenol A (BPA) and valproic acid (VPA). Moreover, we detected significant expression changes of 56 cognitive-specific genes using four ASD microarray datasets in the GEO database, including GSE28521, GSE26415, GSE18123 and GSE29691. Our outcomes suggest future endeavors for dissecting the PSD-95 function in ASD and evaluating the various environmental conditions to discover possible mechanisms of the different levels of cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoumeh Farahani
- Proteomics Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, 19716-53313, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mostafa Rezaei-Tavirani
- Proteomics Research Center, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, 19716-53313, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Alireza Zali
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mona Zamanian-Azodi
- Proteomics Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, 19716-53313, Tehran, Iran
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14
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Wilson HA, Creighton C, Scharfman H, Choleris E, MacLusky NJ. Endocrine Insights into the Pathophysiology of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Neuroscientist 2020; 27:650-667. [PMID: 32912048 DOI: 10.1177/1073858420952046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a class of neurodevelopmental disorders that affects males more frequently than females. Numerous genetic and environmental risk factors have been suggested to contribute to the development of ASD. However, no one factor can adequately explain either the frequency of the disorder or the male bias in its prevalence. Gonadal, thyroid, and glucocorticoid hormones all contribute to normal development of the brain, hence perturbations in either their patterns of secretion or their actions may constitute risk factors for ASD. Environmental factors may contribute to ASD etiology by influencing the development of neuroendocrine and neuroimmune systems during early life. Emerging evidence suggests that the placenta may be particularly important as a mediator of the actions of environmental and endocrine risk factors on the developing brain, with the male being particularly sensitive to these effects. Understanding how various risk factors integrate to influence neural development may facilitate a clearer understanding of the etiology of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley A Wilson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carolyn Creighton
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Helen Scharfman
- Departments of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Neuroscience & Physiology, and Psychiatry, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, USA.,Center for Dementia Research, The Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, NY, USA
| | - Elena Choleris
- Department of Psychology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Neil J MacLusky
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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15
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Detrimental effects of temephos on male fertility: An in vitro study on a mouse model. Reprod Toxicol 2020; 96:150-155. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2020.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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16
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A multidimensional precision medicine approach identifies an autism subtype characterized by dyslipidemia. Nat Med 2020; 26:1375-1379. [PMID: 32778826 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-020-1007-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The promise of precision medicine lies in data diversity. More than the sheer size of biomedical data, it is the layering of multiple data modalities, offering complementary perspectives, that is thought to enable the identification of patient subgroups with shared pathophysiology. In the present study, we use autism to test this notion. By combining healthcare claims, electronic health records, familial whole-exome sequences and neurodevelopmental gene expression patterns, we identified a subgroup of patients with dyslipidemia-associated autism.
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17
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Liu C, Wang YX, Chen YJ, Sun Y, Huang LL, Cheng YH, Liu EN, Lu WQ, Messerlian C. Blood and urinary biomarkers of prenatal exposure to disinfection byproducts and oxidative stress: A repeated measurement analysis. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 137:105518. [PMID: 32018134 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxicological studies have demonstrated that disinfection by-products (DBPs) can induce oxidative stress, a proposed mechanism that is relevant to adverse birth outcomes. OBJECTIVE To examine the associations of blood trihalomethanes (THMs) and urinary haloacetic acids (HAAs) with urinary biomarkers of oxidative stress among pregnant women. METHODS From 2015 to 2017, a total of 4150 blood and 4232 urine samples were collected from 1748 Chinese women during pregnancy. We determined concentrations of 4 blood THMs [chloroform (TCM), bromodichloromethane (BDCM), dibromochloromethane (DBCM), and bromoform (TBM)] and 2 urinary HAAs [dichloroacetic acid (DCAA) and trichloroacetic acid (TCAA)]. The summary measures of exposure for brominated THMs (Br-THMs; a molar sum of BDCM, DBCM, and TBM) and total THMs (TTHMs; a molar sum of TCM and Br-THMs) were also calculated. Associations of categorical (i.e., tertiles) and continuous measures of DBPs with urinary concentrations of oxidative stress (OS) biomarkers, 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal-mercapturic acid (HNE-MA), and 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α (8-isoPGF2α), were assessed using linear mixed regression models. RESULTS After adjusting for relevant confounding factors, we observed positive dose-response relationships between blood Br-THM tertiles and urinary HNE-MA (P for trend < 0.001). We also found positive associations between tertiles of blood TCM and TTHMs and urinary 8-OHdG and HNE-MA (all P for trend < 0.05). Urinary HAAs were also positively associated with 8-OHdG, HNE-MA, and 8-isoPGF2α in a dose-response manner (all P for trend < 0.001). These associations were further confirmed when we modeled DBP exposures as continuous variables in linear mixed regression models, as well as in penalized regression splines based on generalized additive mixed models. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to DBPs during pregnancy may increase maternal OS status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China; Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yi-Xin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China; Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Ying-Jun Chen
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yang Sun
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Li-Li Huang
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying-Hui Cheng
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Xiaonan Maternal and Child Care Service Centre, Xiaogan City, Hubei, PR China
| | - Er-Nan Liu
- Wuhan Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Wen-Qing Lu
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China; Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China.
| | - Carmen Messerlian
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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18
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Lu X, Tan ZX, Wang B, Li J, Hu B, Gao L, Zhao H, Wang H, Chen YH, Xu DX. Maternal 1-nitropyrene exposure during pregnancy increases susceptibility of allergic asthma in adolescent offspring. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 243:125356. [PMID: 31743867 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.125356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
1-nitropyrene (1-NP) is widespread in the environment, as a typical nitrated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon. The purpose of this research was to explore the effects of gestational 1-NP exposure on susceptibility of allergic asthma in offspring. Maternal mice were exposed to 1-NP (100 μg kg-1) by gavage throughout the whole pregnancy. Pups were sensitized by injecting with ovalbumin (OVA) on postnatal day (PND)23, 29, and 36, respectively. At 7 days following the last injection, sensitized mice were exposed to aerosol OVA. As expected, there were quite a few inflammatory cells in the lungs of OVA-sensitized pups, accompanied by bronchial wall thickening and hyperemia. Elevated goblet cells and overproduced mucus were observed in the airways of OVA-sensitized pups. Interestingly, gestational 1-NP exposure aggravated infiltration of inflammatory cells, mainly eosinophils, in OVA-sensitized offspring. Although it had little effect on airway smooth muscle layer thickening and basement membrane fibrosis, gestational 1-NP exposure aggravated goblet cell hyperplasia, Muc5ac mRNA upregulation, and mucus secretion in the airways of OVA-sensitized and challenged offspring. Mechanistically, gestational 1-NP exposure aggravated elevation of pulmonary IL-5 in OVA-sensitized pups. These findings suggest that gestational 1-NP exposure increases susceptibility of allergic asthma in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Lu
- Department of Toxicology & Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Zhu-Xia Tan
- Second Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Toxicology & Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Toxicology & Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Biao Hu
- Second Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Lan Gao
- Department of Toxicology & Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- Second Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Toxicology & Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Yuan-Hua Chen
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.
| | - De-Xiang Xu
- Department of Toxicology & Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.
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19
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Jaureguiberry MS, Venturino A. Nutritional and environmental contributions to Autism Spectrum Disorders: Focus on nutrigenomics as complementary therapy. INT J VITAM NUTR RES 2020; 92:248-266. [PMID: 32065556 DOI: 10.1024/0300-9831/a000630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has risen sharply in the last 30 years, posing a major public health concern and a big emotional and financial challenge for families. While the underlying causes remain to be fully elucidated, evidence shows moderate genetic heritability contribution, but heavy environmental influence. Over the last decades, modern lifestyle has deeply changed our eating, rest, and exercise habits, while exposure to air, water, and food chemical pollution has increased due to indiscriminate use of pesticides, food additives, adjuvants, and antibiotics. The result is a drastic change in the quality of our energy source input, and an overload for antioxidant and detoxification pathways that compromises normal metabolism and homeostasis. Current research shows high prevalence of food selectivity and/or food allergy among children with autism, resulting in essential micronutrient deficits that may trigger or aggravate physical and cognitive symptoms. Nutrigenomics is an emerging discipline that focuses on genotype-micronutrient interaction, and a useful approach to tailor low risk, personalized interventions through diet and micronutrient supplementation. Here, we review available literature addressing the role of micronutrients in the symptomatology of ASD, the metabolic pathways involved, and their therapeutic relevance. Personalized and supervised supplementation according to individual needs is suggested as a complement of traditional therapies to improve outcome both for children with autism and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- María S Jaureguiberry
- Centro de Investigaciones en Toxicología Ambiental y Agrobiotecnología del Comahue-CITAAC, Universidad Nacional del Comahue-CONICET, Neuquén, Argentina
| | - Andrés Venturino
- Centro de Investigaciones en Toxicología Ambiental y Agrobiotecnología del Comahue-CITAAC, Universidad Nacional del Comahue-CONICET, Neuquén, Argentina
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20
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Chun H, Leung C, Wen SW, McDonald J, Shin HH. Maternal exposure to air pollution and risk of autism in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 256:113307. [PMID: 31733973 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.113307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The number of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been increasing. Previous studies suggested potential association between pregnancy air pollution exposure and ASD. This systematic review and meta-analysis is intended to summarize the association between maternal exposure to outdoor air pollution and ASD in children by trimester based on recent studies. METHODS A systematic literature search in 3 databases (Medline, Embase, and Web of Science) was performed using subject headings related to ASD and air pollution since 2007. Eligible studies were screened and evaluated based on predetermined criteria. For meta-analyses, the studies were grouped by air pollutant and exposure time (prenatal period and trimesters). Within-group studies were standardized by log odds ratio (OR) and then combined by three meta-analysis methods: frequentist fixed and random effects models, and Bayesian random effects model. RESULTS Initial search identified 1564 papers, of which 25 studies remained for final analysis after duplicates and ineligible studies were removed. Of the 25 studies, 13, 14, 12, and 7 studies investigated ASD in children associated with PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and ozone, respectively. The frequentist and Bayesian random effects models resulted in different statistical significance. For prenatal period, frequentist meta-analysis returned significant pooled ORs with 95% confidence intervals, 1.06(1.01,1.11) for PM2.5 and 1.02(1.01,1.04) for NO2, whereas Bayesian meta-analysis showed similar ORs with wider 95% posterior intervals, 1.06(1.00,1.13) for PM2.5 and 1.02(1.00,1.05) for NO2. Third trimester appeared to have higher pooled ORs for PM2.5, PM10, and ozone, but patterns in the time-varying associations over the trimester were inconsistent. CONCLUSIONS For positive association between maternal exposure to ambient air pollution and ASD in children, there is some evidence for PM2.5, weak evidence for NO2 and little evidence for PM10 and ozone. However, patterns in associations over trimesters were inconsistent among studies and among air pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- HeeKyoung Chun
- Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, GA, USA
| | - Cheryl Leung
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Newborn Care, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Shi Wu Wen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Newborn Care, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute Clinical Epidemiology, Ottawa, ON, Canada; School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Judy McDonald
- McLaughlin Centre for Population Health Risk Assessment, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Hwashin H Shin
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
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21
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Potential Health Risks Linked to Emerging Contaminants in Major Rivers and Treated Waters. WATER 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/w11122615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The presence of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in our local waterways is becoming an increasing threat to the surrounding population. These compounds and their degradation products (found in pesticides, herbicides, and plastic waste) are known to interfere with a range of biological functions from reproduction to differentiation. To better understand these effects, we used an in silico ontological pathway analysis to identify the genes affected by the most commonly detected EDCs in large river water supplies, which we grouped together based on four common functions: Organismal injuries, cell death, cancer, and behavior. In addition to EDCs, we included the opioid buprenorphine in our study, as this similar ecological threat has become increasingly detected in river water supplies. Through the identification of the pleiotropic biological effects associated with both the acute and chronic exposure to EDCs and opioids in local water supplies, our results highlight a serious health threat worthy of additional investigations with a potential emphasis on the effects linked to increased DNA damage.
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22
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Foxe JJ, Molholm S, Baudouin SJ, Wallace MT. Explorations and perspectives on the neurobiological bases of autism spectrum disorder. Eur J Neurosci 2019; 47:488-496. [PMID: 29575230 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- John J Foxe
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ernest J. Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA.,The Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Departments of Pediatrics and Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Sophie Molholm
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ernest J. Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA.,The Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Departments of Pediatrics and Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | | | - Mark T Wallace
- Center for Integrative and Cognitive Neuroscience, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
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23
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Shanmugam S, Patel D, Wolpert JM, Keshvani C, Liu X, Bergeson SE, Kidambi S, Mahimainathan L, Henderson GI, Narasimhan M. Ethanol Impairs NRF2/Antioxidant and Growth Signaling in the Intact Placenta In Vivo and in Human Trophoblasts. Biomolecules 2019; 9:E669. [PMID: 31671572 PMCID: PMC6921053 DOI: 10.3390/biom9110669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
NRF2 is a redox-sensitive transcription factor that depending on the duration or magnitude of the stress, either translocates to the nucleus (beneficial) or is degraded in the cytosol (harmful). However, the role of NRF2-based mechanism(s) under ethanol (E)-induced developmental toxicity in the placental context remains unknown. Here, we used a rat prenatal model of maternal alcohol stress consisting of intermittent ethanol vapor (IEV) daily from GD11 to GD20 with a 6 h ON/18 h OFF in a vapor chamber and in vitro placental model consisting of HTR-8 trophoblasts exposed to 86 mM of E for either 24 h or 48 h. The role of NRF2 was evaluated through the NRF2-transactivation reporter assay, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting for NRF2 and cell growth-promoting protein, and cell proliferation assay. In utero and in vitro E decreased the nuclear NRF2 content and diminished its transactivation ability along with dysregulation of the proliferation indices, PCNA, CYCLIN-D1, and p21. This was associated with a ~50% reduction in cell proliferation in vitro in trophoblasts. Interestingly, this was found to be partially rescued by ectopic Nrf2 overexpression. These results indicate that ethanol-induced dysregulation of NRF2 coordinately regulates PCNA/CYCLIN-D1/p21 involving growth network, at least partially to set a stage for placental perturbations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sambantham Shanmugam
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC), Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Dhyanesh Patel
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC), Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - John M Wolpert
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC), Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Caezaan Keshvani
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC), Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Xiaobo Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC), Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Susan E Bergeson
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC), Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Srivatsan Kidambi
- Department of Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA.
| | - Lenin Mahimainathan
- Department Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
| | - George I Henderson
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC), Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Madhusudhanan Narasimhan
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC), Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
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24
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Saini S, Kaur C, Pal I, Kumar P, Jacob TG, Thakar A, Roy KK, Roy TS. Morphological development of the human cochlear nucleus. Hear Res 2019; 382:107784. [DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2019.107784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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25
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Theoharides TC, Kavalioti M, Tsilioni I. Mast Cells, Stress, Fear and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E3611. [PMID: 31344805 PMCID: PMC6696098 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20153611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition characterized by impaired communication and obsessive behavior that affects 1 in 59 children. ASD is expected to affect 1 in about 40 children by 2020, but there is still no distinct pathogenesis or effective treatments. Prenatal stress has been associated with higher risk of developing ASD in the offspring. Moreover, children with ASD cannot handle anxiety and respond disproportionately even to otherwise benign triggers. Stress and environmental stimuli trigger the unique immune cells, mast cells, which could then trigger microglia leading to abnormal synaptic pruning and dysfunctional neuronal connectivity. This process could alter the "fear threshold" in the amygdala and lead to an exaggerated "fight-or-flight" reaction. The combination of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), secreted under stress, together with environmental stimuli could be major contributors to the pathogenesis of ASD. Recognizing these associations and preventing stimulation of mast cells and/or microglia could greatly benefit ASD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theoharis C Theoharides
- Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery Laboratory, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA.
- Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, USA.
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA.
| | - Maria Kavalioti
- Graduate Program in Education, Lesley University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Irene Tsilioni
- Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery Laboratory, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
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26
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Alinaghi S, Alehabib E, Johari AH, Vafaei F, Salehi S, Darvish H, Ghaedi H. Expression analysis and genotyping of DGKZ: a GWAS-derived risk gene for schizophrenia. Mol Biol Rep 2019; 46:4105-4111. [PMID: 31087244 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-019-04860-1] [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: 12/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a disabling and severe mental illness characterized by abnormal social behavior and disrupted emotions. Similar to other neuropsychological disorders, both genetics and environmental factors interplay so as to develop SCZ. It is acknowledged that genes such as DGKZ are involved in lipid signaling pathways that are the basis of neural activities, memory, and learning and are considered as candidate loci for SCZ. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the expression level and genotypes of DGKZ in patients with SCZ and controls. We used q-PCR to measure the relative expression of DGKZ in blood. To determine DGKZ-rs7951870 genotypes, tetra-ARMS PCR was used. Our results showed a significant difference in DGKZ mRNA ratio between SCZ patients and healthy controls (P = 2 × 10-4). Also, we showed that rs7951870-TT genotype was strongly associated with increased DGKZ expression level (P = 0.038). In conclusion, our findings revealed dysregulation of DGKZ in SCZ patients and a significant correction between the gene expression and DGKZ variant rs7951870.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somayeh Alinaghi
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elham Alehabib
- Student Research Committee, Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Hossein Johari
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Vafaei
- The Cohort Lab for the Iran University of Medical Sciences Staffs, University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shima Salehi
- The Cohort Lab for the Iran University of Medical Sciences Staffs, University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Darvish
- Cancer Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran. .,Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran.
| | - Hamid Ghaedi
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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27
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Bernal-Meléndez E, Lacroix MC, Bouillaud P, Callebert J, Olivier B, Persuy MA, Durieux D, Rousseau-Ralliard D, Aioun J, Cassee F, Couturier-Tarrade A, Valentino S, Chavatte-Palmer P, Schroeder H, Baly C. Repeated gestational exposure to diesel engine exhaust affects the fetal olfactory system and alters olfactory-based behavior in rabbit offspring. Part Fibre Toxicol 2019; 16:5. [PMID: 30654819 PMCID: PMC6335688 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-018-0288-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Airborne pollution, especially from diesel exhaust (DE), is known to have a negative effect on the central nervous system in exposed human populations. However, the consequences of gestational exposure to DE on the fetal brain remain poorly explored, with various effects depending on the conditions of exposure, as well as little information on early developmental stages. We investigated the short-term effects of indirect DE exposure throughout gestation on the developing brain using a rabbit model. We analyzed fetal olfactory tissues at the end of gestation and tested behaviors relevant to pups' survival at birth. Pregnant dams were exposed by nose-only inhalation to either clean air or DE with a content of particles (DEP) adjusted to 1 mg/m3 by diluting engine exhaust, for 2 h/day, 5 days/week, from gestational day 3 (GD3) to day 27 (GD27). At GD28, fetal olfactory mucosa, olfactory bulbs and whole brains were collected for anatomical and neurochemical measurements. At postnatal day 2 (PND2), pups born from another group of exposed or control female were examined for their odor-guided behavior in response to the presentation of the rabbit mammary pheromone 2-methyl-3-butyn-2-ol (2MB2). RESULTS At GD28, nano-sized particles were observed in cilia and cytoplasm of the olfactory sensory neurons in the olfactory mucosa and in the cytoplasm of periglomerular cells in the olfactory bulbs of exposed fetuses. Moreover, cellular and axonal hypertrophies were observed throughout olfactory tissues. Concomitantly, fetal serotoninergic and dopaminergic systems were affected in the olfactory bulbs. Moreover, the neuromodulatory homeostasis was disturbed in a sex-dependent manner in olfactory tissues. At birth, the olfactory sensitivity to 2MB2 was reduced in exposed PND2 pups. CONCLUSION Gestational exposure to DE alters olfactory tissues and affects monoaminergic neurotransmission in fetuses' olfactory bulbs, resulting in an alteration of olfactory-based behaviors at birth. Considering the anatomical and functional continuum between the olfactory system and other brain structures, and due to the importance of monoamine neurotransmission in the plasticity of neural circuits, such alterations could participate to disturbances in higher integrative structures, with possible long-term neurobehavioral consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estefanía Bernal-Meléndez
- NeuroBiologie de l’Olfaction, INRA, Université Paris-Saclay, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
- CALBINOTOX, Université de Lorraine, EA7488 Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | | | | | - Jacques Callebert
- Service de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, Hôpital Lariboisière, Paris, France
| | - Benoit Olivier
- CALBINOTOX, Université de Lorraine, EA7488 Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Marie-Annick Persuy
- NeuroBiologie de l’Olfaction, INRA, Université Paris-Saclay, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Didier Durieux
- NeuroBiologie de l’Olfaction, INRA, Université Paris-Saclay, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | | | - Josiane Aioun
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Flemming Cassee
- Center for Sustainability, Environment and Health, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands
- Institute of Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | | | - Sarah Valentino
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | | | - Henri Schroeder
- CALBINOTOX, Université de Lorraine, EA7488 Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Christine Baly
- NeuroBiologie de l’Olfaction, INRA, Université Paris-Saclay, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
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Martins Laurentino AO, Durante de Medeiros F, de Oliveira J, da Rosa N, Mateus Gomes T, de Medeiros Peretti E, Somariva Prophiro J, Fortunato JJ. Effects of prenatal exposure to temephos on behavior and social interaction. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2019; 15:669-673. [PMID: 30880993 PMCID: PMC6417020 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s193896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED The neurodevelopment period is susceptible to alterations by genetic and environmental factors, such as the exposure to organophosphates (OP). The OP is neurotoxic and has been associated with neurological diseases pathophysiology. The OP temephos is widely used against Aedes aegypti in Brazil's public health programs. PURPOSE To evaluate behavioral effects of prenatal exposition to temephos in Wistar rats. METHODS First, we divided pregnant females into groups: those who received temephos diluted in distilled water by gavage between gestational days 6-13 and those who received only distilled water in the same period and volume. Then, we divided pups according to sex and exposure, and we made the behavioral tests on postnatal day 30. RESULTS Prenatal exposure to temephos caused hyperactivity, stereotyped behavior, and social impairment in animals. CONCLUSION These results are similar to the altered behavior presented in some neurobiological diseases models, like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorders, and this study may bring a red alert to the large use of temephos in Brazil, due to the damage caused by its exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Olívia Martins Laurentino
- Neurobiology Laboratory of Inflammatory and Metabolic Processes, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Tubarão, Santa Catarina, Brazil,
| | - Fabiana Durante de Medeiros
- Neurobiology Laboratory of Inflammatory and Metabolic Processes, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Tubarão, Santa Catarina, Brazil,
| | - Juliana de Oliveira
- Neurobiology Laboratory of Inflammatory and Metabolic Processes, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Tubarão, Santa Catarina, Brazil, .,Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Tubarão, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Naiana da Rosa
- Neurobiology Laboratory of Inflammatory and Metabolic Processes, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Tubarão, Santa Catarina, Brazil, .,Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Tubarão, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Tamires Mateus Gomes
- Neurobiology Laboratory of Inflammatory and Metabolic Processes, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Tubarão, Santa Catarina, Brazil,
| | - Eduardo de Medeiros Peretti
- Neurobiology Laboratory of Inflammatory and Metabolic Processes, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Tubarão, Santa Catarina, Brazil,
| | - Josiane Somariva Prophiro
- Neurobiology Laboratory of Inflammatory and Metabolic Processes, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Tubarão, Santa Catarina, Brazil, .,Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Tubarão, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Jucélia J Fortunato
- Neurobiology Laboratory of Inflammatory and Metabolic Processes, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Tubarão, Santa Catarina, Brazil, .,Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Tubarão, Santa Catarina, Brazil
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Wong CT, Bestard-Lorigados I, Crawford DA. Autism-related behaviors in the cyclooxygenase-2-deficient mouse model. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2018; 18:e12506. [PMID: 30027581 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Revised: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is an endogenous lipid molecule involved in normal brain development. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) is the main regulator of PGE2 synthesis. Emerging clinical and molecular research provides compelling evidence that abnormal COX2/PGE2 signaling is associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We previously found that COX2 knockout mice had dysregulated expression of many ASD genes belonging to important biological pathways for neurodevelopment. The present study is the first to show the connection between irregular COX2/PGE2 signaling and autism-related behaviors in male and female COX2-deficient knockin, (COX)-2- , mice at young (4-6 weeks) or adult (8-11 weeks) ages. Autism-related behaviors were prominent in male (COX)-2- mice for most behavioral tests. In the open field test, (COX)-2- mice traveled more than controls and adult male (COX)-2- mice spent less time in the center indicating elevated hyperactive and anxiety-linked behaviors. (COX)-2- mice also buried more marbles, with males burying more than females, suggesting increased anxiety and repetitive behaviors. Young male (COX)-2- mice fell more frequently in the inverted screen test revealing motor deficits. The three-chamber sociability test found that adult female (COX)-2- mice spent less time in the novel mouse chamber indicative of social abnormalities. In addition, male (COX)-2- mice showed altered expression of several autism-linked genes: Wnt2, Glo1, Grm5 and Mmp9. Overall, our findings offer new insight into the involvement of disrupted COX2/PGE2 signaling in ASD pathology with age-related differences and greater impact on males. We propose that (COX)-2- mice might serve as a novel model system to study specific types of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine T Wong
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Neuroscience Graduate Diploma Program, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Isabel Bestard-Lorigados
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Neuroscience Graduate Diploma Program, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Dorota A Crawford
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Neuroscience Graduate Diploma Program, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Cattane N, Richetto J, Cattaneo A. Prenatal exposure to environmental insults and enhanced risk of developing Schizophrenia and Autism Spectrum Disorder: focus on biological pathways and epigenetic mechanisms. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 117:253-278. [PMID: 29981347 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2017] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 07/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
When considering neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), Schizophrenia (SZ) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are considered to be among the most severe in term of prevalence, morbidity and impact on the society. Similar features and overlapping symptoms have been observed at multiple levels, suggesting common pathophysiological bases. Indeed, recent genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and epidemiological data report shared vulnerability genes and environmental triggers across the two disorders. In this review, we will discuss the possible biological mechanisms, including glutamatergic and GABAergic neurotransmissions, inflammatory signals and oxidative stress related systems, which are targeted by adverse environmental exposures and that have been associated with the development of SZ and ASD. We will also discuss the emerging role of the gut microbiome as possible interplay between environment, immune system and brain development. Finally, we will describe the involvement of epigenetic mechanisms in the maintenance of long-lasting effects of adverse environments early in life. This will allow us to better understand the pathophysiology of these NDDs, and also to identify novel targets for future treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Cattane
- Biological Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Fatebenefratelli San Giovanni di Dio, via Pilastroni 4, Brescia, Italy
| | - Juliet Richetto
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich-Vetsuisse, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Annamaria Cattaneo
- Biological Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Fatebenefratelli San Giovanni di Dio, via Pilastroni 4, Brescia, Italy; Stress, Psychiatry and Immunology Laboratory, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, 125 Coldharbour Lane, SE5 9NU, London, UK.
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31
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Ratnaseelan AM, Tsilioni I, Theoharides TC. Effects of Mycotoxins on Neuropsychiatric Symptoms and Immune Processes. Clin Ther 2018; 40:903-917. [PMID: 29880330 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2018.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2018] [Revised: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The effects of air pollutants have been receiving increased attention both clinically and in the media. One such pollutant is mold, fungal growth in the form of multicellular filaments known as hyphae. The growth of molds is omnipresent not only in outdoor settings but also in indoor environments containing excessive amounts of moisture. METHODS PubMed was searched for relevant articles using terms such as mold, mycotoxins, fungi, immunity, inflammation, neurodevelopment, cognition, Alzheimer's, and autism. FINDINGS Exposure to molds is most commonly associated with allergies and asthma. However, it is now thought to be associated with many complex health problems, since some molds, especially Trichoderma, Fusarium and Stachybotrys spp, produce mycotoxins that are absorbed from the skin, airways, and intestinal lining. People exposed to molds and mycotoxins present with symptoms affecting multiple organs, including the lungs, musculoskeletal system, as well as the central and peripheral nervous systems. Furthermore, evidence has recently implicated exposure to mycotoxins in the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder. The effects of mycotoxins can be mediated via different pathways that include the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, especially from mast cells. IMPLICATIONS The information reviewed indicates that exposure to mold and mycotoxins can affect the nervous system, directly or through immune cell activation, thus contributing to neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aarane M Ratnaseelan
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Irene Tsilioni
- Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery Laboratory, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Theoharis C Theoharides
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts; Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery Laboratory, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts; Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Internal Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts.
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Bauer AZ, Kriebel D, Herbert MR, Bornehag CG, Swan SH. Prenatal paracetamol exposure and child neurodevelopment: A review. Horm Behav 2018; 101:125-147. [PMID: 29341895 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2018.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Revised: 12/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The non-prescription medication paracetamol (acetaminophen, APAP) is currently recommended as a safe pain and fever treatment during pregnancy. However, recent studies suggest a possible association between APAP use in pregnancy and offspring neurodevelopment. OBJECTIVES To conduct a review of publications reporting associations between prenatal APAP use and offspring neurodevelopmental outcomes. METHODS Relevant sources were identified through a key word search of multiple databases (Medline, CINAHL, OVID and TOXNET) in September 2016. All English language observational studies of pregnancy APAP and three classes of neurodevelopmental outcomes (autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and intelligence quotient (IQ)) were included. One reviewer (AZB) independently screened all titles and abstracts, extracted and analyzed the data. RESULTS 64 studies were retrieved and 55 were ineligible. Nine prospective cohort studies fulfilled all inclusion criteria. Data pooling was not appropriate due to heterogeneity in outcomes. All included studies suggested an association between prenatal APAP exposure and the neurodevelopmental outcomes; ADHD, ASD, or lower IQ. Longer duration of APAP use was associated with increased risk. Associations were strongest for hyperactivity and attention-related outcomes. Little modification of associations by indication for use was reported. CONCLUSIONS Together, these nine studies suggest an increased risk of adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes following prenatal APAP exposure. Further studies are urgently needed with; precise indication of use and exposure assessment of use both in utero and in early life. Given the current findings, pregnant women should be cautioned against indiscriminate use of APAP. These results have substantial public health implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Z Bauer
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts, 1 University Avenue, Lowell, MA, 01854, USA.
| | - David Kriebel
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts, 1 University Avenue, Lowell, MA, 01854, USA.
| | - Martha R Herbert
- Department of Neurology, MGH, Harvard Medical School, A.A. Martinos Centre for Biomedical Imaging, MGH/MIT/Harvard 149 Thirteenth Street, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
| | - Carl-Gustaf Bornehag
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY 10029, USA; Department of Health Sciences, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden.
| | - Shanna H Swan
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY 10029, USA.
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Rai-Bhogal R, Wong C, Kissoondoyal A, Davidson J, Li H, Crawford DA. Maternal exposure to prostaglandin E 2 modifies expression of Wnt genes in mouse brain - An autism connection. Biochem Biophys Rep 2018; 14:43-53. [PMID: 29872733 PMCID: PMC5986660 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2018.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Revised: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is a lipid signaling molecule important for brain development and function. Various genetic and environmental factors can influence the level of PGE2 and increase the risk of developing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We have previously shown that in neuronal cell lines and mouse brain, PGE2 can interfere with the Wnt canonical pathway, which is essential during early brain development. Higher levels of PGE2 increased Wnt-dependent motility and proliferation of neuroectodermal stem cells, and modified the expression of Wnt genes previously linked to autism disorders. We also recently established a cross-talk between these two pathways in the prenatal mouse brain lacking PGE2 producing enzyme (COX-/-). The current study complements the published data and reveals that PGE2 signaling also converges with the Wnt canonical pathway in the developing mouse brain after maternal exposure to PGE2 at the onset of neurogenesis. We found significant changes in the expression level of Wnt-target genes, Mmp7, Wnt2, and Wnt3a, during prenatal and early postnatal stages. Interestingly, we observed variability in the expression level of these genes between genetically-identical pups within the same pregnancy. Furthermore, we found that all the affected genes have been previously associated with disorders of the central nervous system, including autism. We determined that prenatal exposure to PGE2 affects the Wnt pathway at the level of β-catenin, the major downstream regulator of Wnt-dependent gene transcription. We discuss how these results add new knowledge into the molecular mechanisms by which PGE2 may interfere with neuronal development during critical periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravneet Rai-Bhogal
- Neuroscience Graduate Diploma Program, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada M3J 1P3.,Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada M3J 1P3
| | - Christine Wong
- Neuroscience Graduate Diploma Program, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada M3J 1P3.,School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON, Canada M3J 1P3
| | - Ashby Kissoondoyal
- Neuroscience Graduate Diploma Program, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada M3J 1P3.,School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON, Canada M3J 1P3
| | - Jennilee Davidson
- Neuroscience Graduate Diploma Program, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada M3J 1P3.,Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada M3J 1P3
| | - Hongyan Li
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON, Canada M3J 1P3
| | - Dorota A Crawford
- Neuroscience Graduate Diploma Program, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada M3J 1P3.,Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada M3J 1P3.,School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON, Canada M3J 1P3
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Moazen-Zadeh E, Shirzad F, Karkhaneh-Yousefi MA, Khezri R, Mohammadi MR, Akhondzadeh S. Simvastatin as an Adjunctive Therapy to Risperidone in Treatment of Autism: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol 2018; 28:82-89. [PMID: 28719227 DOI: 10.1089/cap.2017.0055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Providing novel treatments for autism has been a subject of long-standing research. Based on etiopathological findings, we aim at assessing potential therapeutic effects of statins, here simvastatin, on autism symptoms for the first time. METHODS In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group 10-week clinical trial, 70 drug-free children aged 4 to 12 years old with diagnosis of autistic disorder based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision, who had an Aberrant Behavior Checklist-Community (ABC-C) scale irritability subscale score of ≥12, were equally randomized to receive either simvastatin (20-40 mg/day) or placebo as an adjunct to risperidone (1-2 mg/day) whereas administration of both drugs was started simultaneously from baseline. Patients with comorbid psychiatric disorders, active medical conditions, severe intellectual disability, seizure disorders, history of any treatments for autism in the past 6 months, or history of current anti-inflammatory drug consumption were excluded. Primary outcome was defined as the difference in mean change of the ABC-C scale irritability subscale score from baseline to the endpoint ( www.irct.ir ; IRCT201602041556N86). RESULTS Significant differences in change of the ABC-C scale irritability (mean difference [95% confidence interval (CI)] = -3.45 [-5.37 to -1.54], p = 0.001; Cohen's d = 0.89) and hyperactivity/noncompliance (mean difference [95% CI] = -4.27 [-6.69 to -1.86], p = 0.001; Cohen's d = 0.87) subscales scores were detected between the two arms. No significant difference was detected in case of the other three subscales. CONCLUSIONS This study provides preliminary evidence for potential therapeutic effects of simvastatin in the treatment of autism that warrants further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Moazen-Zadeh
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Shirzad
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Rasoul Khezri
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Reza Mohammadi
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahin Akhondzadeh
- Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran, Iran
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Signorini C, De Felice C, Durand T, Galano JM, Oger C, Leoncini S, Ciccoli L, Carone M, Ulivelli M, Manna C, Cortelazzo A, Lee JCY, Hayek J. Relevance of 4-F 4t-neuroprostane and 10-F 4t-neuroprostane to neurological diseases. Free Radic Biol Med 2018; 115:278-287. [PMID: 29233794 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2017.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Revised: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
F4-neuroprostanes (F4-NeuroPs) are non-enzymatic oxidized products derived from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and are suggested to be oxidative damage biomarkers of neurological diseases. However, 128 isomers can be formed from DHA oxidation and among them, 4(RS)-4-F4t-NeuroP (4-F4t-NeuroP) and 10(RS)-10-F4t-NeuroP (10-F4t-NeuroP) are the most studied. Here, we report the identification and the clinical relevance of 4-F4t-NeuroP and 10-F4t-NeuroP in plasma of four different neurological diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS), autism spectrum disorders (ASD), Rett syndrome (RTT), and Down syndrome (DS). The identification and the optimization of the method were carried out by gas chromatography/negative-ion chemical ionization tandem mass spectrometry (GC/NICI-MS/MS) using chemically synthesized 4-F4t-NeuroP and 10-F4t-NeuroP standards and in oxidized DHA liposome. Both 4-F4t-NeuroP and 10-F4t-NeuroP were detectable in all plasma samples from MS (n = 16), DS (n = 16), ASD (n = 9) and RTT (n = 20) patients. While plasma 10-F4t-NeuroP content was significantly higher in patients of all diseases as compared to age and gender matched healthy control subjects (n = 61), 4-F4t-NeuroP levels were significantly higher in MS and RTT as compared to healthy controls. Significant positive relationships were observed between relative disease severity and 4-F4t-NeuroP levels (r = 0.469, P <0.0001), and 10-F4t-NeuroP levels (r = 0.757, P < 0.0001). The study showed that the plasma amount ratio of 10-F4t-NeuroP to 4-F4t-NeuroP and the plasma amount as individual isomer can be used to discriminate between different brain diseases. Overall, by comparing the different types of disease, our plasma data indicates that 4-F4t-NeuroP and 10-F4t -NeuroP: i) are biologically synthesized in vivo and circulated, ii) are related to clinical severity of neurological diseases, iii) are useful to identify shared pathogenetic pathways in distinct brain diseases, and iv) appears to be distinctive for different neurological conditions, thus representing potentially new biological disease markers. Our data strongly suggest that in vivo DHA oxidation follows preferential chemical rearrangements according to different brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Signorini
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Claudio De Felice
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Siena, Italy
| | - Thierry Durand
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron, (IBMM), UMR 5247, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, ENSCM, Montpellier, France
| | - Jean-Marie Galano
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron, (IBMM), UMR 5247, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, ENSCM, Montpellier, France
| | - Camille Oger
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron, (IBMM), UMR 5247, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, ENSCM, Montpellier, France
| | - Silvia Leoncini
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Siena, Italy
| | - Lucia Ciccoli
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Marisa Carone
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Monica Ulivelli
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Caterina Manna
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and General Pathology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy"
| | - Alessio Cortelazzo
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Siena, Italy; Clinical Pathology Laboratory Unit, University Hospital, AOUS, Siena, Italy
| | - Jetty Chung-Yung Lee
- The University of Hong Kong, School of Biological Sciences, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Joussef Hayek
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Siena, Italy
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Fordyce TA, Leonhard MJ, Chang ET. A critical review of developmental exposure to particulate matter, autism spectrum disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH. PART A, TOXIC/HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING 2018; 53:174-204. [PMID: 29157090 DOI: 10.1080/10934529.2017.1383121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit (hyperactivity) disorder (ADD/ADHD) are key focuses of current health research due to their increasing prevalence. The objective of this systematic literature search and critical review was to evaluate whether the human epidemiologic data indicate a pattern of association between ASD or ADD/ADHD and developmental exposure to particulate matter (PM), with a focus on exposures encountered before the age of three. A MEDLINE and EMBASE search was conducted; following preliminary and full-text screening, 14 relevant articles were identified for review. Three of the 14 studies were prospective cohort studies evaluating exposure to PM10; 11 studies had a case-control design. There was no consistent association between developmental PM exposure and ASD across the three of the cohort studies. Seven of the case-control studies examined the relationship between PM2.5 and/or PM10 and ASD; four examined the relationship between developmental diesel PM exposure and ASD. Overall, there was low external consistency in results among studies of PM2.5/PM10 and ASD, with some reporting high internal consistency without significant associations, others showing associations with high internal consistency for specific exposure windows only (e.g., third trimester), and still others showing high consistency for moderate to strong associations between PM and ASD. The majority of studies reporting significant results had low effect sizes in conjunction with small sample sizes. The four studies of diesel PM and ASD also had low external consistency of results. Only one study evaluated associations with ADD/ADHD, and it found no significant associations with PM10. The inconsistent findings across studies of developmental exposure to PM and ASD may be attributed to differences in the study populations, exposure assessments, outcome assessments, or chance. Further research is needed to understand the underlying biological mechanisms that lead to ASD and ADD/ADHD and how PM might be involved in those mechanisms, if at all. High-quality epidemiologic studies are also needed to conclusively determine whether developmental PM exposure is a causal factor for ASD or ADD/ADHD, with focus on a well-developed exposure assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffani A Fordyce
- a Exponent, Inc., Center for Health Sciences , Menlo Park , California , USA
| | - Megan J Leonhard
- b Exponent, Inc., Center for Health Sciences , Bellevue , Washington , USA
| | - Ellen T Chang
- a Exponent, Inc., Center for Health Sciences , Menlo Park , California , USA
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Rai-Bhogal R, Ahmad E, Li H, Crawford DA. Microarray analysis of gene expression in the cyclooxygenase knockout mice - a connection to autism spectrum disorder. Eur J Neurosci 2017; 47:750-766. [PMID: 29161772 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Revised: 11/11/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The cellular and molecular events that take place during brain development play an important role in governing function of the mature brain. Lipid-signalling molecules such as prostaglandin E2 (PGE2 ) play an important role in healthy brain development. Abnormalities along the COX-PGE2 signalling pathway due to genetic or environmental causes have been linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This study aims to evaluate the effect of altered COX-PGE2 signalling on development and function of the prenatal brain using male mice lacking cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-1-/- and COX-2-/- ) as potential model systems of ASD. Microarray analysis was used to determine global changes in gene expression during embryonic days 16 (E16) and 19 (E19). Gene Ontology: Biological Process (GO:BP) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) were implemented to identify affected developmental genes and cellular processes. We found that in both knockouts the brain at E16 had nearly twice as many differentially expressed genes, and affected biological pathways containing various ASD-associated genes important in neuronal function. Interestingly, using GeneMANIA and Cytoscape we also show that the ASD-risk genes identified in both COX-1-/- and COX-2-/- models belong to protein-interaction networks important for brain development despite of different cellular localization of these enzymes. Lastly, we identified eight genes that belong to the Wnt signalling pathways exclusively in the COX-2-/- mice at E16. The level of PKA-phosphorylated β-catenin (S552), a major activator of the Wnt pathway, was increased in this model, suggesting crosstalk between the COX-2-PGE2 and Wnt pathways during early brain development. Overall, these results provide further molecular insight into the contribution of the COX-PGE2 pathways to ASD and demonstrate that COX-1-/- and COX-2-/- animals might be suitable new model systems for studying the disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravneet Rai-Bhogal
- Neuroscience Graduate Diploma Program, York University, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada.,Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Eizaaz Ahmad
- Neuroscience Graduate Diploma Program, York University, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada.,Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hongyan Li
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Dorota A Crawford
- Neuroscience Graduate Diploma Program, York University, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada.,Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada.,School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
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38
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Hehua Z, Qing C, Shanyan G, Qijun W, Yuhong Z. The impact of prenatal exposure to air pollution on childhood wheezing and asthma: A systematic review. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2017; 159:519-530. [PMID: 28888196 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2017.08.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Revised: 08/18/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES There has been no clear consensus about whether prenatal exposure to air pollution contributes to the development of wheezing and asthma in children. We conducted a systematic review to analyze the association between exposure to different pollutants during pregnancy and the development of childhood wheezing and asthma. METHODS We systematically reviewed epidemiological studies published through June 6, 2017 available in the MEDLINE and Web of Science databases. We included studies that examined the association between prenatal exposure to any air pollutants except tobacco smoke and the incidence or prevalence of "wheezing" or "asthma" from birth to 14 years of age. We extracted key characteristics of each included study using a template of predefined data items. We used the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklists to assess the validity of each included study. We conducted overall and subgroup meta-analyses for each summary exposure-outcome association. Pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated by using a random effects model. RESULTS Eighteen studies met our eligibility criteria. There was notable variability in exposure assessment methods. The overall random effects risk estimates (95% CI) of different pollutants were 1.04 (0.94-1.15) aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), 1.04 (1.01-1.07) NO2, 1.4 (0.97-2.03) PM2.5 for childhood wheeze and 1.07 (1.01-1.14) NO2, 1 (0.97-1.03) PM2.5, 1.02 (0.98-1.07) SO2, 1.08 (1.05-1.12) PM10 for childhood asthma. Minimal heterogeneity was seen for PAH and SO2, while some heterogeneity was observed for PM10, PM2.5 and NO2. CONCLUSIONS The overall and subgroup risk estimates from the meta-analyses showed statistically significant associations between prenatal exposures to NO2, SO2, and PM10 and the risk of wheezing and asthma development in childhood. There is insufficient evidence to show an effect of prenatal exposure to BC, CO, and O3 on childhood wheezing and asthma. Further studies are needed to examine the individual compounds' effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhang Hehua
- Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Huaxiang Road No. 39, Tiexi District, China
| | - Chang Qing
- Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Sanhao Street, No. 36, Heping District, China
| | - Gao Shanyan
- Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Sanhao Street, No. 36, Heping District, China
| | - Wu Qijun
- Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Sanhao Street, No. 36, Heping District, China
| | - Zhao Yuhong
- Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Huaxiang Road No. 39, Tiexi District, China; Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Sanhao Street, No. 36, Heping District, China.
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Costa LG, Chang YC, Cole TB. Developmental Neurotoxicity of Traffic-Related Air Pollution: Focus on Autism. Curr Environ Health Rep 2017; 4:156-165. [PMID: 28417440 PMCID: PMC5952375 DOI: 10.1007/s40572-017-0135-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Epidemiological and animal studies suggest that air pollution may negatively affect the central nervous system (CNS) and contribute to CNS diseases. Traffic-related air pollution is a major contributor to global air pollution, and diesel exhaust (DE) is its most important component. RECENT FINDINGS Several studies suggest that young individuals may be particularly susceptible to air pollution-induced neurotoxicity and that perinatal exposure may cause or contribute to developmental disabilities and behavioral abnormalities. In particular, a number of recent studies have found associations between exposures to traffic-related air pollution and autism spectrum disorders (ASD), which are characterized by impairment in socialization and in communication and by the presence of repetitive and unusual behaviors. The cause(s) of ASD are unknown, and while it may have a hereditary component, environmental factors are increasingly suspected as playing a pivotal role in its etiology, particularly in genetically susceptible individuals. Autistic children present higher levels of neuroinflammation and systemic inflammation, which are also hallmarks of exposure to traffic-related air pollution. Gene-environment interactions may play a relevant role in determining individual susceptibility to air pollution developmental neurotoxicity. Given the worldwide presence of elevated air pollution, studies on its effects and mechanisms on the developing brain, genetic susceptibility, role in neurodevelopmental disorders, and possible therapeutic interventions are certainly warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucio G Costa
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Washington, 4225 Roosevelt, Suite No. 100, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA.
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Yu-Chi Chang
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Washington, 4225 Roosevelt, Suite No. 100, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
| | - Toby B Cole
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Washington, 4225 Roosevelt, Suite No. 100, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
- Center on Human Development and Disability, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Lee AS, Azmitia EC, Whitaker-Azmitia PM. Developmental microglial priming in postmortem autism spectrum disorder temporal cortex. Brain Behav Immun 2017; 62:193-202. [PMID: 28159644 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2017.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2016] [Revised: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/26/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglia can shift into different complex morphologies depending on the microenvironment of the central nervous system (CNS). The distinct morphologies correlate with specific functions and can indicate the pathophysiological state of the CNS. Previous postmortem studies of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) showed neuroinflammation in ASD indicated by increased microglial density. These changes in the microglia density can be accompanied by changes in microglia phenotype but the individual contribution of different microglia phenotypes to the pathophysiology of ASD remains unclear. Here, we used an unbiased stereological approach to quantify six structurally and functionally distinct microglia phenotypes in postmortem human temporal cortex, which were immuno-stained with Iba1. The total density of all microglia phenotypes did not differ between ASD donors and typically developing individual donors. However, there was a significant decrease in ramified microglia in both gray matter and white matter of ASD, and a significant increase in primed microglia in gray matter of ASD compared to typically developing individuals. This increase in primed microglia showed a positive correlation with donor age in both gray matter and white of ASD, but not in typically developing individuals. Our results provide evidence of a shift in microglial phenotype that may indicate impaired synaptic plasticity and a chronic vulnerability to exaggerated immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew S Lee
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA; Department of Biology, New York University, New York, NY 10003, USA; Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany.
| | - Efrain C Azmitia
- Department of Biology, New York University, New York, NY 10003, USA
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Autism-like behavior in the BTBR mouse model of autism is improved by propofol. Neuropharmacology 2017; 118:175-187. [PMID: 28341205 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2016] [Revised: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that is characterized by symptoms of impaired social interactions, restricted interests and repetitive behaviors. Recent studies in humans and animal-models suggest that reduced GABAergic neurotransmission in the brain may underlie autism-related behavioral symptoms. It has been shown that propofol, a commonly used anesthetic, facilitates γ-aminobutyric acid-mediated inhibitory synaptic transmission. The present study investigated whether propofol improved autistic phenotypes in BTBR T + Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) mice, a model of idiopathic autism. We found that i.p. injection of propofol in BTBR mice significantly improved aspects of social approach and repetitive behaviors without affecting reciprocal social interactions and without any detrimental effects in C57BL/6J mice. The ability of propofol to improve autistic phenotypes in BTBR mice through GABAergic neurotransmission suggests a potential pharmacological target for interventions to treat symptoms of autism.
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Modabbernia A, Velthorst E, Reichenberg A. Environmental risk factors for autism: an evidence-based review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Mol Autism 2017; 8:13. [PMID: 28331572 PMCID: PMC5356236 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-017-0121-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 418] [Impact Index Per Article: 59.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND According to recent evidence, up to 40-50% of variance in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) liability might be determined by environmental factors. In the present paper, we conducted a review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses of environmental risk factors for ASD. We assessed each review for quality of evidence and provided a brief overview of putative mechanisms of environmental risk factors for ASD. FINDINGS Current evidence suggests that several environmental factors including vaccination, maternal smoking, thimerosal exposure, and most likely assisted reproductive technologies are unrelated to risk of ASD. On the contrary, advanced parental age is associated with higher risk of ASD. Birth complications that are associated with trauma or ischemia and hypoxia have also shown strong links to ASD, whereas other pregnancy-related factors such as maternal obesity, maternal diabetes, and caesarian section have shown a less strong (but significant) association with risk of ASD. The reviews on nutritional elements have been inconclusive about the detrimental effects of deficiency in folic acid and omega 3, but vitamin D seems to be deficient in patients with ASD. The studies on toxic elements have been largely limited by their design, but there is enough evidence for the association between some heavy metals (most important inorganic mercury and lead) and ASD that warrants further investigation. Mechanisms of the association between environmental factors and ASD are debated but might include non-causative association (including confounding), gene-related effect, oxidative stress, inflammation, hypoxia/ischemia, endocrine disruption, neurotransmitter alterations, and interference with signaling pathways. CONCLUSIONS Compared to genetic studies of ASD, studies of environmental risk factors are in their infancy and have significant methodological limitations. Future studies of ASD risk factors would benefit from a developmental psychopathology approach, prospective design, precise exposure measurement, reliable timing of exposure in relation to critical developmental periods and should take into account the dynamic interplay between gene and environment by using genetically informed designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirhossein Modabbernia
- Department of Psychiatry and Seaver Autism Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
| | - Eva Velthorst
- Department of Psychiatry and Seaver Autism Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
| | - Abraham Reichenberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Seaver Autism Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
- Friedman Brain Institute, Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
- Seaver Autism Center, Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
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Posar A, Visconti P. Autism in 2016: the need for answers. J Pediatr (Rio J) 2017; 93:111-119. [PMID: 27837654 DOI: 10.1016/j.jped.2016.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Revised: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 09/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Autism spectrum disorders are lifelong and often devastating conditions that severely affect social functioning and self-sufficiency. The etiopathogenesis is presumably multifactorial, resulting from a very complex interaction between genetic and environmental factors. The dramatic increase in autism spectrum disorder prevalence observed during the last decades has led to placing more emphasis on the role of environmental factors in the etiopathogenesis. The objective of this narrative biomedical review was to summarize and discuss the results of the most recent and relevant studies about the environmental factors hypothetically involved in autism spectrum disorder etiopathogenesis. SOURCES A search was performed in PubMed (United States National Library of Medicine) about the environmental factors hypothetically involved in the non-syndromic autism spectrum disorder etiopathogenesis, including: air pollutants, pesticides and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals, electromagnetic pollution, vaccinations, and diet modifications. SUMMARY OF THE FINDINGS While the association between air pollutants, pesticides and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals, and risk for autism spectrum disorder is receiving increasing confirmation, the hypothesis of a real causal relation between them needs further data. The possible pathogenic mechanisms by which environmental factors can lead to autism spectrum disorder in genetically predisposed individuals were summarized, giving particular emphasis to the increasingly important role of epigenetics. CONCLUSIONS Future research should investigate whether there is a significant difference in the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder among nations with high and low levels of the various types of pollution. A very important goal of the research concerning the interactions between genetic and environmental factors in autism spectrum disorder etiopathogenesis is the identification of vulnerable populations, also in view of proper prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annio Posar
- IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences of Bologna, Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Bologna, Italy; University of Bologna, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Paola Visconti
- IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences of Bologna, Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Bologna, Italy
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45
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Wei H, Feng Y, Liang F, Cheng W, Wu X, Zhou R, Wang Y. Role of oxidative stress and DNA hydroxymethylation in the neurotoxicity of fine particulate matter. Toxicology 2017; 380:94-103. [PMID: 28153600 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2017.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2016] [Revised: 01/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies have implicated fine particulate matter (PM2.5) as a risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases and neurodevelopmental disorders. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms and the influences of different components remain largely elusive. Here, we extended our previous work to investigate the role of oxidative stress and DNA hydroxymethylation in neuronal pathology of PM2.5. We found PM2.5 and its extracts (water-soluble extracts, organic extracts and carbon core component) differentially caused cell cycle arrest, cell apoptosis and the cell proliferation inhibition in neuronal cells. These effects were mechanistically related to each other and oxidative stress, suggesting PM2.5 and toxic compounds adsorbed on the particles may cause different types of brain damages. In addition, PM2.5 and its organic extracts increased global DNA hydroxymethylation and gene-specific DNA hydroxymethylation of neuronal genes, and subsequently interfered with their mRNA expression. The impairments in neuronal progression characterized with decreased length of neurite and reduced mRNA expression of neuronal markers and synaptic markers. The blocking effects of antioxidants demonstrated the involvement of oxidative stress-mediated hydroxymethylation abnormalities in PM2.5-induced defects in neurite outgrowth and synapse formation. Our results first revealed the role of oxidative stress-mediated abnormal DNA hydroxymethylation in neuronal impairments of PM2.5, and thoroughly evaluated the neurocytotoxicity of different components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongying Wei
- The Ninth People Hospital of Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Yan Feng
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 227 Chongqing South Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Fan Liang
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 227 Chongqing South Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Wei Cheng
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 227 Chongqing South Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xiaomeng Wu
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 227 Chongqing South Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ren Zhou
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 227 Chongqing South Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yan Wang
- The Ninth People Hospital of Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai 200011, China; School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 227 Chongqing South Road, Shanghai 200025, China; MOE-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, No. 1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai, 200092, China.
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Khaled EM, Meguid NA, Bjørklund G, Gouda A, Bahary MH, Hashish A, Sallam NM, Chirumbolo S, El-Bana MA. Altered urinary porphyrins and mercury exposure as biomarkers for autism severity in Egyptian children with autism spectrum disorder. Metab Brain Dis 2016; 31:1419-1426. [PMID: 27406246 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-016-9870-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2016] [Accepted: 06/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social, communication, and behavioral development. Recent evidence supported but also questioned the hypothetical role of compounds containing mercury (Hg) as contributors to the development of ASD. Specific alterations in the urinary excretion of porphyrin-containing ring catabolites have been associated with exposure to Hg in ASD patients. In the present study, the level of urinary porphyrins, as biomarkers of Hg toxicity in children with ASD, was evaluated, and its correlation with severity of the autistic behavior further explored. A total of 100 children was enrolled in the present study. They were classified into three groups: children with ASD (40), healthy controls (40), and healthy siblings of the ASD children (20). Children with ASD were diagnosed using DSM-IV-TR, ADI-R, and CARS tests. Urinary porphyrins were evaluated within the three groups using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), after plasma evaluation of mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb) in the same groups. Results showed that children with ASD had significantly higher levels of Hg, Pb, and the porphyrins pentacarboxyporphyrin, coproporphyrin, precoproporphyrin, uroporphyrins, and hexacarboxyporphyrin compared to healthy controls and healthy siblings of the ASD children. However, there was no significant statistical difference in the level of heptacarboxyporphyrin among the three groups, while a significant positive correlation between the levels of coproporphyrin and precoproporphyrin and autism severity was observed. Mothers of ASD children showed a higher percentage of dental amalgam restorations compared to the mothers of healthy controls suggesting that high Hg levels in children with ASD may relate to the increased exposure to Hg from maternal dental amalgam during pregnancy and lactation. The results showed that the ASD children in the present study had increased blood Hg and Pb levels compared with healthy control children indicating that disordered porphyrin metabolism might interfere with the pathology associated with the autistic neurologic phenotype. The present study indicates that coproporphyrin and precoproporhyrin may be utilized as possible biomarkers for heavy metal exposure and autism severity in children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman M Khaled
- Department of Pediatric, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nagwa A Meguid
- Department of Research on Children with Special Needs, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine, Toften 24, 8610, Mo i Rana, Norway.
| | - Amr Gouda
- Department of Genetic Biochemistry, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | | | - Adel Hashish
- Department of Research on Children with Special Needs, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Nermin M Sallam
- Department of Research on Children with Special Needs, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Salvatore Chirumbolo
- University Laboratory of Medical Research, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Mona A El-Bana
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
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Carter CJ, Blizard RA. Autism genes are selectively targeted by environmental pollutants including pesticides, heavy metals, bisphenol A, phthalates and many others in food, cosmetics or household products. Neurochem Int 2016; 101:S0197-0186(16)30197-8. [PMID: 27984170 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2016.10.011] [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: 07/05/2016] [Revised: 10/18/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The increasing incidence of autism suggests a major environmental influence. Epidemiology has implicated many candidates and genetics many susceptibility genes. Gene/environment interactions in autism were analysed using 206 autism susceptibility genes (ASG's) from the Autworks database to interrogate ∼1 million chemical/gene interactions in the comparative toxicogenomics database. Any bias towards ASG's was statistically determined for each chemical. Many suspect compounds identified in epidemiology, including tetrachlorodibenzodioxin, pesticides, particulate matter, benzo(a)pyrene, heavy metals, valproate, acetaminophen, SSRI's, cocaine, bisphenol A, phthalates, polyhalogenated biphenyls, flame retardants, diesel constituents, terbutaline and oxytocin, inter alia showed a significant degree of bias towards ASG's, as did relevant endogenous agents (retinoids, sex steroids, thyroxine, melatonin, folate, dopamine, serotonin). Numerous other suspected endocrine disruptors (over 100) selectively targeted ASG's including paraquat, atrazine and other pesticides not yet studied in autism and many compounds used in food, cosmetics or household products, including tretinoin, soy phytoestrogens, aspartame, titanium dioxide and sodium fluoride. Autism polymorphisms influence the sensitivity to some of these chemicals and these same genes play an important role in barrier function and control of respiratory cilia sweeping particulate matter from the airways. Pesticides, heavy metals and pollutants also disrupt barrier and/or ciliary function, which is regulated by sex steroids and by bitter/sweet taste receptors. Further epidemiological studies and neurodevelopmental and behavioural research is warranted to determine the relevance of large number of suspect candidates whose addition to the environment, household, food and cosmetics might be fuelling the autism epidemic in a gene-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- C J Carter
- PolygenicPathways, Flat 2, 40 Baldslow Road, Hastings, East Sussex, TN34 2EY, UK.
| | - R A Blizard
- Molecular Psychiatry Laboratory, Mental Health Sciences Unit, University College, London, UK
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Carter C. The barrier, airway particle clearance, placental and detoxification functions of autism susceptibility genes. Neurochem Int 2016; 99:42-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2016.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2016] [Revised: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 06/07/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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49
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Wei H, Liang F, Meng G, Nie Z, Zhou R, Cheng W, Wu X, Feng Y, Wang Y. Redox/methylation mediated abnormal DNA methylation as regulators of ambient fine particulate matter-induced neurodevelopment related impairment in human neuronal cells. Sci Rep 2016; 6:33402. [PMID: 27624276 PMCID: PMC5022064 DOI: 10.1038/srep33402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has been implicated as a risk factor for neurodevelopmental disorders including autism in children. However, the underlying biological mechanism remains unclear. DNA methylation is suggested to be a fundamental mechanism for the neuronal responses to environmental cues. We prepared whole particle of PM2.5 (PM2.5), water-soluble extracts (Pw), organic extracts (Po) and carbon core component (Pc) and characterized their chemical constitutes. We found that PM2.5 induced significant redox imbalance, decreased the levels of intercellular methyl donor S-adenosylmethionine and caused global DNA hypomethylation. Furthermore, PM2.5 exposure triggered gene-specific promoter DNA hypo- or hypermethylation and abnormal mRNA expression of autism candidate genes. PM2.5-induced DNA hypermethylation in promoter regions of synapse related genes were associated with the decreases in their mRNA and protein expression. The inhibiting effects of antioxidative reagents, a methylation-supporting agent and a DNA methyltransferase inhibitor demonstrated the involvement of redox/methylation mechanism in PM2.5-induced abnormal DNA methylation patterns and synaptic protein expression. The biological effects above generally followed a sequence of PM2.5 ≥ Pwo > Po > Pw > Pc. Our results implicated a novel epigenetic mechanism for the neurodevelopmental toxicity of particulate air pollution, and that eliminating the chemical components could mitigate the neurotoxicity of PM2.5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongying Wei
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Public Health; Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Fan Liang
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Public Health; Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ge Meng
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Public Health; Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Zhiqing Nie
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Ren Zhou
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Public Health; Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Wei Cheng
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Public Health; Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xiaomeng Wu
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Public Health; Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yan Feng
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Public Health; Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Public Health; Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Shanghai Tongren Hospital, Shanghai 200025, China.,Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
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Jaber M. [The cerebellum as a major player in motor disturbances related to Autistic Syndrome Disorders]. Encephale 2016; 43:170-175. [PMID: 27616580 DOI: 10.1016/j.encep.2016.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2015] [Revised: 03/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
SCIENTIFIC BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are neurodevelopmental disorders associated with disturbances in communication, social interactions, cognition and affect. ASD are also accompanied by complex movement disorders, including ataxia. A special focus of recent research in this area is made on the striatum and the cerebellum, two structures known not only to control movement but also to be involved in cognitive functions such as memory and language. Dysfunction within the motor system may be associated with abnormal movements in ASD that are translated into ataxia, abnormal pattern of righting, gait sequencing, development of walking, and hand positioning. This line of study may generate new knowledge and understanding of motor symptoms associated with ASD and aims to deliver fresh perspectives for early diagnosis and therapeutic strategies against ASD. AIMS OF THE REVIEW Despite the relative paucity of research in this area (compared to the social, linguistic, and behavioural disturbances in ASD), there is evidence that the frontostriatal motor system and/or the cerebellar motor systems may be the site of dysfunction in ASD. Indeed, the cerebellum seems to be essential in the development of basic social capabilities, communication, repetitive/restrictive behaviors, and motor and cognitive behaviors that are all impaired in ASD. Cerebellar neuropathology including cerebellar hypoplasia and reduced cerebellar Purkinje cell numbers are the most consistent neuropathologies linked to ASD. The functional state of the cerebellum and its impact on brain function in ASD is the focus of this review. This review starts by recapitulating historical findings pointing towards an implication of the cerebellum, and to a lesser extent the basal ganglia structures, in TSA. We then detail the structure/function of the cerebellum at the regional and cellular levels before describing human and animal findings indicating a role of the cerebellum and basal ganglia in ASD. HUMAN AND ANIMAL FINDINGS Several studies have attempted to identify the nature of the motor system dysfunction in ASD, and it became apparent that the motor fronto-striatal and cerebellar systems are major sites of dysfunction in this psychiatric illness. Anomalies in these structures have been revealed both at the anatomical and functional levels in human patients as well as in animal models. These models are obtained by manipulation of genes that are often implicated in glutamate transmission, by lesions of brain structures among which the cerebellum, by pharmacological treatment with drugs such as the Valproate or by maternal infections with bacterial membrane extracts of double stranded RNA mimicking a viral infection. CONCLUSION The "cognitive approach" has dominated ASD research for three decades and led to the design of interventional strategies, which have yielded satisfactory results. Nevertheless, new approaches and alternative hypotheses on the aetiology and diagnosis of ASD are needed. Research focused on motor rather than psychiatric symptoms may have a greater potential to elucidate the neurobiological basis of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Jaber
- Inserm U-1084, laboratoire de neurosciences expérimentales et cliniques, LNEC, université de Poitiers, CHU de Poitiers, bâtiment B36, 1, rue Georges-Bonnet, BP 633, TSA 51106, 86022 Poitiers cedex, France.
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