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Adduri RSR, Vasireddy R, Mroz MM, Bhakta A, Li Y, Chen Z, Miller JW, Velasco-Alzate KY, Gopalakrishnan V, Maier LA, Li L, Konduru NV. Realistic biomarkers from plasma extracellular vesicles for detection of beryllium exposure. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2022; 95:1785-1796. [PMID: 35551477 PMCID: PMC9489591 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-022-01871-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Exposures related to beryllium (Be) are an enduring concern among workers in the nuclear weapons and other high-tech industries, calling for regular and rigorous biological monitoring. Conventional biomonitoring of Be in urine is not informative of cumulative exposure nor health outcomes. Biomarkers of exposure to Be based on non-invasive biomonitoring could help refine disease risk assessment. In a cohort of workers with Be exposure, we employed blood plasma extracellular vesicles (EVs) to discover novel biomarkers of exposure to Be. Methods EVs were isolated from plasma using size-exclusion chromatography and subjected to mass spectrometry-based proteomics. A protein-based classifier was developed using LASSO regression and validated by ELISA. Results We discovered a dual biomarker signature comprising zymogen granule protein 16B and putative protein FAM10A4 that differentiated between Be-exposed and -unexposed subjects. ELISA-based quantification of the biomarkers in an independent cohort of samples confirmed higher expression of the signature in the Be-exposed group, displaying high predictive accuracy (AUROC = 0.919). Furthermore, the biomarkers efficiently discriminated high- and low-exposure groups (AUROC = 0.749). Conclusions This is the first report of EV biomarkers associated with Be exposure and exposure levels. The biomarkers could be implemented in resource-limited settings for Be exposure assessment. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00420-022-01871-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raju S R Adduri
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, Tyler, TX, TX75708, USA
| | - Ravikiran Vasireddy
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, Tyler, TX, TX75708, USA
| | - Margaret M Mroz
- Department of Medicine, National Jewish Health, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Anisha Bhakta
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, Tyler, TX, TX75708, USA
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Zhe Chen
- Department of Biophysics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Jeffrey W Miller
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Karen Y Velasco-Alzate
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, Tyler, TX, TX75708, USA
| | - Vanathi Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Lisa A Maier
- Department of Medicine, National Jewish Health, Denver, CO, USA
- Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, University of Colorado, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Li Li
- Department of Medicine, National Jewish Health, Denver, CO, USA
- Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, University of Colorado, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Nagarjun V Konduru
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, Tyler, TX, TX75708, USA.
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Crooks J, Mroz MM, VanDyke M, McGrath A, Schuler C, McCanlies EC, Virji MA, Rosenman KD, Rossman M, Rice C, Monos D, Fingerlin TE, Maier LA. HLA-DPB1 E69 genotype and exposure in beryllium sensitisation and disease. Occup Environ Med 2022; 79:120-126. [PMID: 34535537 PMCID: PMC8760148 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2021-107736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Human leukocyte antigen-DP beta 1 (HLA-DPB1) with a glutamic acid at the 69th position of the ß chain (E69) genotype and inhalational beryllium exposure individually contribute to risk of chronic beryllium disease (CBD) and beryllium sensitisation (BeS) in exposed individuals. This retrospective nested case-control study assessed the contribution of genetics and exposure in the development of BeS and CBD. METHODS Workers with BeS (n=444), CBD (n=449) and beryllium-exposed controls (n=890) were enrolled from studies conducted at nuclear weapons and primary beryllium manufacturing facilities. Lifetime-average beryllium exposure estimates were based on workers' job questionnaires and historical and industrial hygienist exposure estimates, blinded to genotype and case status. Genotyping was performed using sequence-specific primer-PCR. Logistic regression models were developed allowing for over-dispersion, adjusting for workforce, race, sex and ethnicity. RESULTS Having no E69 alleles was associated with lower odds of both CBD and BeS; every additional E69 allele increased odds for CBD and BeS. Increasing exposure was associated with lower odds of BeS. CBD was not associated with exposure as compared to controls, yet the per cent of individuals with CBD versus BeS increased with increasing exposure. No evidence of a gene-by-exposure interaction was found for CBD or BeS. CONCLUSIONS Risk of CBD increases with E69 allele frequency and increasing exposure, although no gene by environment interaction was found. A decreased risk of BeS with increasing exposure and lack of exposure response in CBD cases may be due to the limitations of reconstructed exposure estimates. Although reducing exposure may not prevent BeS, it may reduce CBD and the associated health effects, especially in those carrying E69 alleles.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Crooks
- Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Margaret M Mroz
- Department of Medicine, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Michael VanDyke
- Department of Environmental & Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Alison McGrath
- Environmental Health and Safety, University of Colorado, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Christine Schuler
- DRDS/Field Studies Branch, U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Erin C McCanlies
- HELD, Health Effects Laboratory, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - M Abbas Virji
- DRDS/Field Studies Branch, U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Kenneth D Rosenman
- Department of Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Milton Rossman
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Carol Rice
- Department of Environmental & Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Dimitri Monos
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Tasha E Fingerlin
- Center for Genes, Environment & Health, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Lisa A Maier
- Department of Medicine, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Denver, Colorado, USA
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A Primer on the Clinical Aspects of Sarcoidosis for the Basic and Translational Scientist. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10132857. [PMID: 34203188 PMCID: PMC8268437 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10132857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The immunopathogenesis of sarcoidosis remains unclear. This failure in understanding has been clinically impactful, as it has impeded the accurate diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of this disease. Unraveling the mechanisms of sarcoidosis will require input from basic and translational scientists. In order to reach this goal, scientists must have a firm grasp of the clinical aspects of the disease, including its diagnostic criteria, the immunologic defects, clinical presentations, response to therapy, risk factors, and clinical course. This manuscript will provide an overview of the clinical aspects of sarcoidosis that are particularly relevant for the basic and translational scientist. The variable phenotypic expression of the disease will be described, which may be integral in identifying immunologic disease mechanisms that may be relevant to subgroups of sarcoidosis patients. Data concerning treatment and risk factors may yield important insights concerning germane immunologic pathways involved in the development of disease. It is hoped that this manuscript will stimulate communication between scientists and clinicians that will eventually lead to improved care of sarcoidosis patients.
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MacMurdo MG, Mroz MM, Culver DA, Dweik RA, Maier LA. Chronic Beryllium Disease: Update on a Moving Target. Chest 2020; 158:2458-2466. [PMID: 32768458 DOI: 10.1016/j.chest.2020.07.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Beryllium exposure remains an ongoing occupational health concern for workers worldwide. Since the initial Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) ruling on a permissible exposure limit (PEL) for beryllium in 1971, our understanding of the risks of beryllium sensitization and chronic beryllium disease (CBD) has evolved substantially. A new OSHA ruling released in early 2017 and implemented in late 2018 reduced the PEL for beryllium, increased requirements for medical screening and monitoring, and may ultimately enhance worker protection. This review highlights advances in our understanding of the pathway from beryllium exposure to sensitization and progression to CBD that guided the development of this OSHA ruling. Screening workers exposed to beryllium and management of CBD will also be discussed. Finally, we will discuss the role of beryllium as a cause of morbidity and mortality among exposed workers in this potentially preventable occupational lung disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Margaret M Mroz
- Division of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, National Jewish Health, Denver, CO
| | | | - Raed A Dweik
- Respiratory Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Lisa A Maier
- Division of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, National Jewish Health, Denver, CO
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Abstract
Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disease that may affect any body organ. Sarcoidosis is associated with many environmental and occupational exposures. Because the exact immunopathogenesis of sarcoidosis is unknown, it is not known whether these exposures are truly causing sarcoidosis, rendering the immune system more susceptible to the development of sarcoidosis, exacerbating subclinical cases of sarcoidosis, or causing a granulomatous condition distinct from sarcoidosis. This manuscript outlines what is known about the immunopathogenesis of sarcoidosis and postulates mechanisms whereby these exposures could cause or exacerbate the disease. We also describe the varied environmental and occupational exposures that have been associated with sarcoidosis. This includes potential infectious exposures such as mycobacteria and Propionibacterium acnes, a skin commensal bacterium, as well as non-infectious environmental exposures including inhaled bioaerosols, metal dusts and products of combustion. Further insights concerning the relationship of environmental exposures to the development of sarcoidosis may have a major impact on the prevention and treatment of this enigmatic disease.
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Abstract
Abstract
Beryllium has long been considered the most toxic non-radioactive element to humans. However, it is shown that the acute toxicity of beryllium ions does not exceed that of other toxic cations like Cd2+, Ba2+, Hg2+ or As3+. The physiological mechanisms liable for the development of beryllium-associated diseases are discussed. Additionally an overview over proposed low-molecular model system for the beryllium species responsible for beryllioses is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magnus R. Buchner
- Anorganische Chemie, Nachwuchsgruppe Berylliumchemie, Fachbereich Chemie , Philipps-Universität Marburg , Hans-Meerwein-Straße 4 , 35032 Marburg , Germany
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De S, Sabu G, Zacharias M. Molecular mechanism of Be2+-ion binding to HLA-DP2: tetrahedral coordination, conformational changes and multi-ion binding. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2020; 22:799-810. [DOI: 10.1039/c9cp05695e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Be small and positive: the smaller size and higher charge of the Be2+-ion results in strong binding between the M2 peptide and the β-chain of HLA-DP2, which induces conformational changes at the periphery suitable for TCR binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susmita De
- Department of Applied Chemistry
- Cochin University of Science and Technology
- Kochi 682 022
- India
- Inter University Centre for Nanomaterials and Devices (IUCND)
| | - Gopika Sabu
- Department of Applied Chemistry
- Cochin University of Science and Technology
- Kochi 682 022
- India
| | - Martin Zacharias
- Physics Department
- Technical University of Munich
- Garching 85747
- Germany
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Lack of an Exposure Response and Interaction With HLA-DPβ1 and DRβ1 Polymorphisms in the Development of Beryllium Toxicity in a High Beryllium Exposure Cohort. J Occup Environ Med 2019; 62:64-73. [PMID: 31743304 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate interaction of HLA-DPβ1 and DRβ1 polymorphisms with metrics of beryllium exposure, in the development of beryllium sensitization (BeS) and chronic beryllium disease (CBD). METHODS A matched case-control study of 61 CBD, 41 BeS, and 259 controls from two beryllium-processing facilities. RESULTS BES and CBD were significantly associated with presence of DPβE69. Dose response of exposure was not observed for the development of BES and CBD with/without adjustment for DPβE69 (P > 0.05). The DRβE71 polymorphism was more common in BeS than CBD after adjusting for exposure and maybe a protective factor (aOR 0.4, 95% CI 0.2 to 0.9) against the progression of BeS to CBD. CONCLUSION No exposure-response association was found, which may reflect that the workers in this high exposure cohort were above a threshold level where an exposure-response could be observed.
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A sarcoidosis clinician's perspective of MHC functional elements outside the antigen binding site. Hum Immunol 2018; 80:85-89. [PMID: 29859205 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2018.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Revised: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disease of unknown cause. Evidence supports an integral role for interactions at the MHC binding site in the development of sarcoidosis. However, despite this evidence, there are clinical data that suggest that additional mechanisms are involved in the immunopathogenesis of this disease. This manuscript provides a brief clinical description of sarcoidosis, and a clinician's perspective of the immunopathogenesis of sarcoidosis in terms of the MHC binding site, MHC functional elements beyond the binding site, and other possible alternative mechanisms. Input from clinicians will be essential in establishing the immunologic cause of sarcoidosis as a detailed phenotypic characterization of disease will be required.
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10
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Research to Practice Implications of High-Risk Genotypes for Beryllium Sensitization and Disease. J Occup Environ Med 2018; 58:855-60. [PMID: 27414009 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000000805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Beryllium workers may better understand their genetic susceptibility to chronic beryllium disease (CBD) expressed as population-based prevalence, rather than odds ratios from case-control studies. METHODS We calculated CBD prevalences from allele-specific DNA sequences of 853 workers for Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA)-DPB1 genotypes and groups characterized by number of E69-containing alleles and by calculated surface electronegativity of HLA-DPB1. RESULTS Of 18 groups of at least 10 workers with specific genotypes, CBD prevalence was highest, 72.7%, for the HLA-DPB102:01:02/DPB117:01 genotype. Population-based grouped genotypes with two E69 alleles wherein one allele had -9 surface charge had a beryllium sensitization (BeS) of 52.6% and a CBD prevalence of 42.1%. CONCLUSIONS The high CBD and BeS prevalences associated with -9-charged E69 alleles and two E69s suggest that workers may benefit from knowing their genetic susceptibility in deciding whether to avoid future beryllium exposure.
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11
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Silveira LJ, Strand M, Van Dyke MV, Mroz MM, Faino AV, Dabelea DM, Maier LA, Fingerlin TE. Clinical tool for disease phenotyping in granulomatous lung disease. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0188119. [PMID: 29145499 PMCID: PMC5690625 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0188119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Exposure to beryllium may lead to granuloma formation and fibrosis in those who develop chronic beryllium disease (CBD). Although disease presentation varies from mild to severe, little is known about CBD phenotypes. This study characterized CBD disease phenotypes using longitudinal measures of lung function. Methods Using a case-only study of 207 CBD subjects, subject-specific trajectories over time were estimated from longitudinal pulmonary function and exercise-tolerance tests. To estimate linear combinations of the 30-year values that define underlying patterns of lung function, we conducted factor analysis. Cluster analysis was then performed on all the predicted lung function values at 30 years. These estimates were used to identify underlying features and subgroups of CBD. Results Two factors, or composite measures, explained nearly 70% of the co-variation among the tests; one factor represented pulmonary function in addition to oxygen consumption and workload during exercise, while the second factor represented exercise tests related to gas exchange. Factors were associated with granulomas on biopsy, exposure, steroid use and lung inflammation. Three clusters of patients (n = 53, n = 59 and, n = 95) were identified based on the collection of test values. Lower levels of each of the factor composite scores and cluster membership were associated with baseline characteristics of patients. Conclusions Using factor analysis and cluster analysis, we identified disease phenotypes that were associated with baseline patient characteristics, suggesting that CBD is a heterogeneous disease with varying severity. These clinical tools may be used in future basic and clinical studies to help define the mechanisms and risk factors for disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori J. Silveira
- Division of Biostatistics and Informatics, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado, United States of America
- Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Matthew Strand
- Division of Biostatistics and Informatics, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado, United States of America
- Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Michael V. Van Dyke
- Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Denver, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Margaret M. Mroz
- Division of Environmental and Occupational Health, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Anna V. Faino
- Division of Biostatistics and Informatics, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Dana M. Dabelea
- Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Lisa A. Maier
- Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
- Division of Environmental and Occupational Health, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Tasha E. Fingerlin
- Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
- Center for Genes, Environment and Health, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Ashwood L, Wing S. Worker Alienation and Compensation at the Savannah River Site. New Solut 2016; 26:55-71. [PMID: 26956018 DOI: 10.1177/1048291116634102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Corporations operating U.S. nuclear weapons plants for the federal government began tracking occupational exposures to ionizing radiation in 1943. However, workers, scholars, and policy makers have questioned the accuracy and completeness of radiation monitoring and its capacity to provide a basis for workers' compensation. We use interviews to explore the limitations of broad-scale, corporate epidemiological surveillance through worker accounts from the Savannah River Site nuclear weapons plant. Interviewees report inadequate monitoring, overbearing surveillance, limited venues to access medical support and exposure records, and administrative failure to report radiation and other exposures at the plant. The alienation of workers from their records and toil is relevant to worker compensation programs and the accuracy of radiation dose measurements used in epidemiologic studies of occupational radiation exposures at the Savannah River Site and other weapons plants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Steve Wing
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Metals can cause disease of the upper and lower respiratory tract that mirror disease due to other causes, such as asthma, rhinosinusitis, acute bronchitis, chronic bronchitis, acute pneumonitis, bronchogenic carcinoma, and interstitial lung disease. This article will describe some uncommon and unique lung diseases that can be induced by metals. RECENT FINDINGS Our understanding of old occupational lung diseases, such as chronic beryllium disease, continues to increase. New exposures in the workplace, such as indium, have been identified as novel occupational hazards. New forms of exposure, such as titanium dioxide nanoparticles, create risk of lung disease that is not seen with larger particles. SUMMARY Knowledge of several unusual and/or unique occupational lung diseases should prompt questioning about a patient's occupational history, which may uncover an occupational, rather than an idiopathic, lung disease.
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Balmes JR, Abraham JL, Dweik RA, Fireman E, Fontenot AP, Maier LA, Muller-Quernheim J, Ostiguy G, Pepper LD, Saltini C, Schuler CR, Takaro TK, Wambach PF. An official American Thoracic Society statement: diagnosis and management of beryllium sensitivity and chronic beryllium disease. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2015; 190:e34-59. [PMID: 25398119 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201409-1722st] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Beryllium continues to have a wide range of industrial applications. Exposure to beryllium can lead to sensitization (BeS) and chronic beryllium disease (CBD). OBJECTIVES The purpose of this statement is to increase awareness and knowledge about beryllium exposure, BeS, and CBD. METHODS Evidence was identified by a search of MEDLINE. The committee then summarized the evidence, drew conclusions, and described their approach to diagnosis and management. MAIN RESULTS The beryllium lymphocyte proliferation test is the cornerstone of both medical surveillance and the diagnosis of BeS and CBD. A confirmed abnormal beryllium lymphocyte proliferation test without evidence of lung disease is diagnostic of BeS. BeS with evidence of a granulomatous inflammatory response in the lung is diagnostic of CBD. The determinants of progression from BeS to CBD are uncertain, but higher exposures and the presence of a genetic variant in the HLA-DP β chain appear to increase the risk. Periodic evaluation of affected individuals can detect disease progression (from BeS to CBD, or from mild CBD to more severe CBD). Corticosteroid therapy is typically administered when a patient with CBD exhibits evidence of significant lung function abnormality or decline. CONCLUSIONS Medical surveillance in workplaces that use beryllium-containing materials can identify individuals with BeS and at-risk groups of workers, which can help prioritize efforts to reduce inhalational and dermal exposures.
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Petukh M, Wu B, Stefl S, Smith N, Hyde-Volpe D, Wang L, Alexov E. Chronic Beryllium Disease: revealing the role of beryllium ion and small peptides binding to HLA-DP2. PLoS One 2014; 9:e111604. [PMID: 25369028 PMCID: PMC4219729 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0111604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic Beryllium (Be) Disease (CBD) is a granulomatous disorder that predominantly affects the lung. The CBD is caused by Be exposure of individuals carrying the HLA-DP2 protein of the major histocompatibility complex class II (MHCII). While the involvement of Be in the development of CBD is obvious and the binding site and the sequence of Be and peptide binding were recently experimentally revealed [1], the interplay between induced conformational changes and the changes of the peptide binding affinity in presence of Be were not investigated. Here we carry out in silico modeling and predict the Be binding to be within the acidic pocket (Glu26, Glu68 and Glu69) present on the HLA-DP2 protein in accordance with the experimental work [1]. In addition, the modeling indicates that the Be ion binds to the HLA-DP2 before the corresponding peptide is able to bind to it. Further analysis of the MD generated trajectories reveals that in the presence of the Be ion in the binding pocket of HLA-DP2, all the different types of peptides induce very similar conformational changes, but their binding affinities are quite different. Since these conformational changes are distinctly different from the changes caused by peptides normally found in the cell in the absence of Be, it can be speculated that CBD can be caused by any peptide in presence of Be ion. However, the affinities of peptides for Be loaded HLA-DP2 were found to depend of their amino acid composition and the peptides carrying acidic group at positions 4 and 7 are among the strongest binders. Thus, it is proposed that CBD is caused by the exposure of Be of an individual carrying the HLA-DP2*0201 allele and that the binding of Be to HLA-DP2 protein alters the conformational and ionization properties of HLA-DP2 such that the binding of a peptide triggers a wrong signaling cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marharyta Petukh
- Computational Biophysics and Bioinformatics, Physics Department, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Bohua Wu
- School of Nursing, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, United States of America
| | - Shannon Stefl
- Computational Biophysics and Bioinformatics, Physics Department, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, United States of America
| | - Nick Smith
- Computational Biophysics and Bioinformatics, Physics Department, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, United States of America
| | - David Hyde-Volpe
- Department of Chemistry, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, United States of America
| | - Li Wang
- Computational Biophysics and Bioinformatics, Physics Department, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, United States of America
| | - Emil Alexov
- Computational Biophysics and Bioinformatics, Physics Department, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, United States of America
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Cherry N, Beach J, Burstyn I, Parboosingh J, Schouchen J, Senthilselvan A, Svenson L, Tamminga J, Yiannakoulias N. Genetic susceptibility to beryllium: a case-referent study of men and women of working age with sarcoidosis or other chronic lung disease. Occup Environ Med 2014; 72:21-7. [PMID: 25305207 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2014-102359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study was designed to investigate whether beryllium exposure was related to illness diagnosed as sarcoidosis. Chronic beryllium disease (CBD) and sarcoidosis are clinically and pathologically indistinguishable, with only the presence of beryllium-specific T-lymphocytes identifying CBD. Testing for such cells is not feasible in community studies of sarcoidosis but a second characteristic of CBD, its much greater incidence in those with a glutamic acid residue at position 69 of the HLA-DPB1 gene (Glu69), provides an alternative approach to answering this question. METHODS Cases of sarcoidosis aged 18-60 years diagnosed in Alberta, Canada, from 1999 to 2005 were approached through their specialist physician, together with age-matched and sex-matched referents with other chronic lung disease. Referents were grouped into chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma and other lung disease. Participants completed a telephone questionnaire, including industry-specific questionnaires. DNA was extracted from mailed-in mouthwash samples and genotyped for Glu69. Duration of employment in types of work with independently documented beryllium exposure was calculated. RESULTS DNA was extracted for 655 cases (270 Glu69 positive) and 1382 referents (561 positive). No increase in sarcoidosis was seen with either Glu69 or beryllium exposure (none, <10, ≥10 years) as main effects: longer duration in possible beryllium jobs was related to COPD. In Glu69 positive men with exposure ≥10 years, the trend towards increasing rate of COPD was reversed, and a significant interaction of duration of exposure and Glu69 was detected (OR=4.51 95% CI 1.17 to 17.48). CONCLUSIONS The gene-environment interaction supports the hypothesis that some cases diagnosed as sarcoidosis result from occupational beryllium exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Cherry
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Jeremy Beach
- Department of Occupational Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Igor Burstyn
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jillian Parboosingh
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada ACH Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Canada
| | - Janine Schouchen
- Department of Occupational Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | | | - Larry Svenson
- Surveillance and Assessment, Alberta Ministry of Health, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Jan Tamminga
- ACH Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Canada
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17
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Welch LS, Ringen K, Dement J, Bingham E, Quinn P, Shorter J, Fisher M. Beryllium disease among construction trade workers at Department of Energy nuclear sites. Am J Ind Med 2013; 56:1125-36. [PMID: 23794247 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A medical surveillance program was developed to identify current and former construction workers at significant risk for beryllium related disease from work at the DOE nuclear weapons facilities, and to improve surveillance among beryllium exposed workers. METHODS Medical examinations included a medical history and a beryllium blood lymphocyte proliferation test (BeLPT). Stratified and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to explore the risk of disease by age, race, trade, and reported work in buildings where beryllium was used. After adjusting for covariates, the risk of BeS was significantly higher among boilermakers, roofers, and sheet metal workers, as suggested in the stratified analyses. Workers identified as sensitized to beryllium were interviewed to determine whether they had been subsequently diagnosed with chronic beryllium disease. RESULTS Between 1998 and December 31, 2010 13,810 workers received a BeLPT through the BTMed program; 189 (1.4%) were sensitized to beryllium, and 28 reported that they had had a compensation claim accepted for CBD. CONCLUSIONS These data on former construction workers gives us additional information about the predictive value of the blood BeLPT test for detection of CBD in populations with lower total lifetime exposures and more remote exposures than that experienced by current workers in beryllium machining operations. Through this surveillance program we have identified routes of exposures to beryllium and worked with DOE site personnel to identity and mitigate those exposures which still exist, as well as helping to focus attention on the risk for beryllium exposure among current demolition workers at these facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura S. Welch
- Center for Construction Research and Training; Silver Spring; Maryland
| | - Knut Ringen
- Center for Construction Research and Training; Silver Spring; Maryland
| | - John Dement
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine; Duke University Medical Center; Durham; North Carolina
| | - Eula Bingham
- Department of Environmental Health; University of Cincinnati Medical Center; Cincinnati; Ohio
| | - Patricia Quinn
- Center for Construction Research and Training; Silver Spring; Maryland
| | | | - Miles Fisher
- Center for Construction Research and Training; Silver Spring; Maryland
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18
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Developing Effective Health and Safety Training Materials for Workers in Beryllium-Using Industries. J Occup Environ Med 2013; 55:746-51. [DOI: 10.1097/jom.0b013e3182972f1b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Abstract
Metal hypersensitivity is a common immune disorder. Human immune systems mount the allergic attacks on metal ions through skin contacts, lung inhalation and metal-containing artificial body implants. The consequences can be simple annoyances to life-threatening systemic illness. Allergic hyper-reactivities to nickel (Ni) and beryllium (Be) are the best-studied human metal hypersensitivities. Ni-contact dermatitis affects 10 % of the human population, whereas Be compounds are the culprits of chronic Be disease (CBD). αβ T cells (T cells) play a crucial role in these hypersensitivity reactions. Metal ions work as haptens and bind to the surface of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and peptide complex. This modifies the binding surface of MHC and triggers the immune response of T cells. Metal-specific αβ T cell receptors (TCRs) are usually MHC restricted, especially MHC class II (MHCII) restricted. Numerous models have been proposed, yet the mechanisms and molecular basis of metal hypersensitivity remain elusive. Recently, we determined the crystal structures of the Ni and Be presenting human MHCII molecules, HLA-DR52c (DRA*0101, DRB3*0301) and HLA-DP2 (DPA1*0103, DPB1*0201). These structures revealed unusual features of MHCII molecules and shed light on how metal ions are recognized by T cells.
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20
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Silveira LJ, McCanlies EC, Fingerlin TE, Van Dyke MV, Mroz MM, Strand M, Fontenot AP, Bowerman N, Dabelea DM, Schuler CR, Weston A, Maier LA. Chronic beryllium disease, HLA-DPB1, and the DP peptide binding groove. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2012; 189:4014-23. [PMID: 22972925 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1200798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Multiple epidemiologic studies demonstrate associations between chronic beryllium disease (CBD), beryllium sensitization (BeS), and HLA-DPB1 alleles with a glutamic acid residue at position 69 (E69). Results suggest that the less-frequent E69 variants (non-*0201/*0202 alleles) might be associated with greater risk of CBD. In this study, we sought to define specific E69-carrying alleles and their amino acid sequences in the DP peptide binding groove, as well as their relationship to CBD and BeS risk, using the largest case control study to date. We enrolled 502 BeS/CBD subjects and 653 beryllium-exposed controls from three beryllium industries who gave informed consent for participation. Non-Hispanic white cases and controls were frequency-matched by industry. HLA-DPB1 genotypes were determined using sequence-specific primer PCR. The E69 alleles were tested for association with disease individually and grouped by amino acid structure using logistic regression. The results show that CBD cases were more likely than controls to carry a non-*02 E69 allele than an *02 E69, with odds ratios (95% confidence interval) ranging from 3.1 (2.1-4.5) to 3.9 (2.6-5.9) (p < 0.0001). Polymorphic amino acids at positions 84 and 11 were associated with CBD: DD versus GG, 2.8 (1.8-4.6), p < 0.0001; GD versus GG, 2.1 (1.5-2.8), p < 0.0001; LL versus GG, 3.2 (1.8-5.6), p < 0.0001; GL versus GG, 2.8 (2.1-3.8), p < 0.0001. Similar results were found within the BeS group and CBD/BeS combined group. We conclude that the less frequent E69 alleles confer more risk for CBD than does *0201. Recent studies examining how the composition and structure of the binding pockets influence peptide binding in MHC genes, as well of studies showing the topology of the TCR to likely bind DPB1 preferentially, give plausible biological rationale for these findings.
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Seidler A, Euler U, Müller-Quernheim J, Gaede KI, Latza U, Groneberg D, Letzel S. Systematic review: Progression of beryllium sensitization to chronic beryllium disease. Occup Med (Lond) 2012; 62:506-13. [PMID: 22705916 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqs069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relevance of beryllium sensitization testing for occupational health practice and prevention is unclear. AIMS To analyse the natural course of beryllium sensitization and clarify the prognosis following cessation of exposure among sensitized workers. METHODS An electronic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Toxline and Cochrane databases supplemented by a manual search. Data abstraction and study quality assessment with adapted guideline checklists were performed independently by three reviewers. Seven studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in the systematic review; however, six of the seven studies were of low methodological quality. RESULTS A substantial (although not specifically quantifiable) proportion of beryllium-sensitized employees will develop chronic beryllium disease (CBD). To date, it is unknown if cessation of exposure in sensitized workers reduces the progression rate to CBD. CONCLUSIONS To determine the utility of regular assessments for beryllium sensitization among exposed workers, there is a need for prospective studies. This should include detailed and continuous exposure monitoring, regular tests for beryllium sensitization and a thorough diagnostic evaluation of sensitized workers to confirm or exclude CBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Seidler
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine (IPAS), Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
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22
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Genetic variability in susceptibility to occupational respiratory sensitization. J Allergy (Cairo) 2011; 2011:346719. [PMID: 21747866 PMCID: PMC3124895 DOI: 10.1155/2011/346719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2011] [Accepted: 04/18/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Respiratory sensitization can be caused by a variety of substances at workplaces, and the health and economic burden linked to allergic respiratory diseases continues to increase. Although the main factors that affect the onset of the symptoms are the types and intensity of allergen exposure, there is a wide range of interindividual variation in susceptibility to occupational/environmental sensitizers. A number of gene variants have been reported to be associated with various occupational allergic respiratory diseases. Examples of genes include, but are not limited to, genes involved in immune/inflammatory regulation, antioxidant defenses, and fibrotic processes. Most of these variants act in combination with other genes and environmental factors to modify disease progression, severity, or resolution after exposure to allergens. Therefore, understanding the role of genetic variability and the interaction between genetic and environmental/occupational factors provides new insights into disease etiology and may lead to the development of novel preventive and therapeutic strategies. This paper will focus on the current state of knowledge regarding genetic influences on allergic respiratory diseases, with specific emphasis on diisocyanate-induced asthma and chronic beryllium disease.
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