1
|
Villani R, Serviddio G, Avolio C, Cassano T, D'Amico E. Autoimmune liver disease and multiple sclerosis: state of the art and future perspectives. Clin Exp Med 2023; 23:3321-3338. [PMID: 37421590 PMCID: PMC10618321 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-023-01128-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
Clinical observations suggest that the prevalence of autoimmune diseases is changing over time. Both autoimmune liver diseases and multiple sclerosis have shown a significant increase in the last decades. Although the coexistence of autoimmune diseases within individuals and families is a common phenomenon, the extent to which liver disease and multiple sclerosis co-occur is not clear. Case reports and few studies have reported the possible coexistence of multiple sclerosis with thyroid diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis. It is unknown whether there is a definite association between multiple sclerosis and autoimmune liver diseases. We reviewed the literature to summarize the available studies on the association between different autoimmune liver diseases (autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, and primary sclerosing cholangitis) and treated or untreated multiple sclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna Villani
- Liver Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Gaetano Serviddio
- Liver Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Carlo Avolio
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Multiple Sclerosis Center, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Tommaso Cassano
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Emanuele D'Amico
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Multiple Sclerosis Center, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Erdei E, Shuey C, Miller C, Hoover J, Cajero M, Lewis J. Metal mixture exposures and multiplexed autoantibody screening in Navajo communities exposed to uranium mine wastes. J Transl Autoimmun 2023; 6:100201. [PMID: 37169001 PMCID: PMC10165442 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtauto.2023.100201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Environmental exposures to metals in uranium mining wastes and drinking water were documented in more than half of the 1304 Navajo community members of the Diné Network for Environmental Health (DiNEH) Project, the first comprehensive assessment of exposures to these metals and community health on the Navajo Nation. Objective Evaluate environmental exposures among participants who provided blood and urine samples using multiplexed autoantibody positivity as an early effect biomarker. Methods Survey and geospatial location data, well water quality, and metals biomonitoring were used to assess exposures to mixed-metal wastes from 100 abandoned uranium waste sites. Results We observed that the prevalence of multiplexed autoantibody positivity in 239 participants was more than double that reported for the U.S. population (27.2% v. 13.8%) even though the national prevalence was generated using a different assay, the HEp-2 cell-based antinuclear antibody test. Increased risk of multiplexed autoantibody screening positivity (OR = 3.07,95%CI 1.15-8.22) was found among DiNEH study people who lived close to uranium mine and milling wastes and consumed metals in drinking water. Associations for females were even stronger when they lived closed to contaminated uranium mining and milling sites. Anti-U1-RNP antibodies were associated with water consumption of nickel. Conclusion Proximity to waste sites and consumption of metals in water even below current drinking water standards were associated with perturbations of immune tolerance. These findings are consistent with previous studies of autoimmunity in the local population and demonstrate that multiplexed autoantibody screening method has a potential as sentinel indicator of exposures to environmental metals. Impact statement This is the first, community-engaged environmental health study in exposed Navajo communities that applied clinical multiplexed testing in risk assessment of environmental metals associated with abandoned, unremediated uranium mining and milling waste sites. Routine clinical autoimmunity measures could be used as early effect biomarkers of environmental metal exposures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esther Erdei
- Community Environmental Health Program, Dept. of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, College of Pharmacy, 1 MSC 09 5360, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Chris Shuey
- Southwest Research and Information Center, 105 Stanford Drive, SE, Albuquerque, NM, 87106, USA
| | - Curtis Miller
- Community Environmental Health Program, Dept. of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, College of Pharmacy, 1 MSC 09 5360, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Joseph Hoover
- University of Arizona Department of Environmental Sciences, 1177 E 4th Street, Tucson, AZ, 85721, USA
| | - Miranda Cajero
- Community Environmental Health Program, Dept. of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, College of Pharmacy, 1 MSC 09 5360, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Johnnye Lewis
- Community Environmental Health Program, Dept. of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, College of Pharmacy, 1 MSC 09 5360, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Thompson González N, Ong J, Luo L, MacKenzie D. Chronic Community Exposure to Environmental Metal Mixtures Is Associated with Selected Cytokines in the Navajo Birth Cohort Study (NBCS). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14939. [PMID: 36429656 PMCID: PMC9690552 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192214939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Many tribal populations are characterized by health disparities, including higher rates of infection, metabolic syndrome, and cancer-all of which are mediated by the immune system. Members of the Navajo Nation have suffered chronic low-level exposure to metal mixtures from uranium mine wastes for decades. We suspect that such metal and metalloid exposures lead to adverse health effects via their modulation of immune system function. We examined the relationships between nine key metal and metalloid exposures (in blood and urine) with 11 circulating biomarkers (cytokines and CRP in serum) in 231 pregnant Navajo women participating in the Navajo Birth Cohort Study. Biomonitored levels of uranium and arsenic species were considerably higher in participants than NHANES averages. Each biomarker was associated with a unique set of exposures, and arsenic species were generally immunosuppressive (decreased cellular and humoral stimulating cytokines). Overall, our results suggest that environmental metal and metalloid exposures modulate immune status in pregnant Navajo women, which may impact long-term health outcomes in mothers and their children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Thompson González
- Integrative Anthropological Sciences, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
- Department of Anthropology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
- Academic Science Education and Research Training Program, Health Sciences Center, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Jennifer Ong
- Health Sciences Center, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Li Luo
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Debra MacKenzie
- Health Sciences Center, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Building Environmental Health and Genomics Literacy among Healthcare Providers Serving Vulnerable Communities: An Innovative Educational Framework. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19020929. [PMID: 35055751 PMCID: PMC8776035 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19020929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
This study addresses healthcare providers’ knowledge deficits in environmental health and genetics, and primarily focuses on student nurses and nurses serving marginalized, low-income communities frequently exposed to environmental toxicants. Our approach to improve public health is unique, combining hands-on modeling exercises with case-based lessons in addition to three targeted 40 min lectures on toxicology. These lectures included the team’s community-based environmental health research among Indigenous peoples of the U.S. The hands-on approach employed DNA and protein molecular models designed to demonstrate normal and dysfunctional molecules, as well as genetic variants in world populations. The models provided learners with visuals and an experience of “learning by doing.” Increased awareness of the effects of environmental toxicants is the first step toward improving health care for exposed communities. We measured knowledge gains by pre- and post-tests among student nurses and nurses serving Native Americans living both in urban and rural areas of the U.S. (n = 116). The modeling lessons illustrated genetic variants in liver proteins common in Native peoples and their resulting health vulnerabilities. Participants were engaged and enthusiastic; and pre- and post-test results reported substantial knowledge gains and a greater understanding of genetic susceptibility (p < 0.0001). Our study demonstrates the utility of this framework across diverse populations and remote communities.
Collapse
|
5
|
The Role of Exposomes in the Pathophysiology of Autoimmune Diseases I: Toxic Chemicals and Food. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY 2021; 28:513-543. [PMID: 35366249 PMCID: PMC8830458 DOI: 10.3390/pathophysiology28040034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases affect 5–9% of the world’s population. It is now known that genetics play a relatively small part in the pathophysiology of autoimmune disorders in general, and that environmental factors have a greater role. In this review, we examine the role of the exposome, an individual’s lifetime exposure to external and internal factors, in the pathophysiology of autoimmune diseases. The most common of these environmental factors are toxic chemicals, food/diet, and infections. Toxic chemicals are in our food, drink, common products, the air, and even the land we walk on. Toxic chemicals can directly damage self-tissue and cause the release of autoantigens, or can bind to human tissue antigens and form neoantigens, which can provoke autoimmune response leading to autoimmunity. Other types of autoimmune responses can also be induced by toxic chemicals through various effects at the cellular and biochemical levels. The food we eat every day commonly has colorants, preservatives, or packaging-related chemical contamination. The food itself may be antigenic for susceptible individuals. The most common mechanism for food-related autoimmunity is molecular mimicry, in which the food’s molecular structure bears a similarity with the structure of one or more self-tissues. The solution is to detect the trigger, remove it from the environment or diet, then repair the damage to the individual’s body and health.
Collapse
|
6
|
Medina S, Zhou X, Lauer FT, Zhang H, Liu KJ, Lewis J, Burchiel SW. Modulation of PARP activity by Monomethylarsonous (MMA +3) acid and uranium in mouse thymus. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2021; 411:115362. [PMID: 33279514 PMCID: PMC7855914 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2020.115362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Arsenic exposure is well established to impair the function of zinc finger proteins, including PARP-1. Previous studies from our lab show that early developing T cells in the thymus are very sensitive to arsenite (As+3)-induced genotoxicity mediated through PARP-1 inhibition. Additionally, it has been shown that uranium (in the form of uranyl acetate, UA) also suppresses PARP-1 activity in HEK cells. However, very little is known about whether the As+3 metabolite, monomethylarsonous acid (MMA+3), also inhibits PARP-1 activity and if this is modified by combined exposures with other metals, such as uranium. In the present study, we found that MMA+3 significantly suppressed PARP-1 function, whereas UA at high concentrations significantly increased PARP-1 activity. To evaluate whether the effects on PARP-1 activity were mediated through oxidative stress, we measured the induction of hemoxygenase-1 (Hmox-1) expression by qPCR. MMA+3, but not UA, significantly induced oxidative stress; however, the inhibition of PARP-1 produced by MMA+3 was not reversed by the addition of the antioxidant, Tempol. Further evaluation revealed minimal interactive effects of MMA+3 and UA on PARP-1 function. Collectively, our results show that contrary to As+3, the suppressive effects of MMA+3 on PARP-1 were not substantially driven by oxidative stress. in mouse thymus cells. Results for this study provide important insights into the effects of MMA+3 and uranium exposures on PARP-1 function, which is essential for future studies focused on understanding the effects of complex environmentally relevant metal mixtures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Medina
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, Albuquerque, NM, USA; Department of Biology, New Mexico Highlands University, Las Vegas, NM, USA
| | - Xixi Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Fredine T Lauer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Haikun Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Ke Jian Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Johnnye Lewis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Scott W Burchiel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, Albuquerque, NM, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Medina S, Lauer FT, Castillo EF, Bolt AM, Ali AMS, Liu KJ, Burchiel SW. Exposures to uranium and arsenic alter intraepithelial and innate immune cells in the small intestine of male and female mice. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2020; 403:115155. [PMID: 32710956 PMCID: PMC7490749 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2020.115155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Human exposures to environmental metals, including uranium (U) and arsenic (As) are a global public health concern. Chronic exposures to U and As are linked to many adverse health effects including, immune suppression and autoimmunity. The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is home to many immune cells vital in the maintenance of systemic immune health. However, very little is known about the immunotoxicity of U and As at this site. The present study examined the burden of U and As exposure in the GI tract as well as the resultant immunotoxicity to intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs) and innate immune cells of the small intestine following chronic drinking water exposures of male and female mice to U (in the form of uranyl acetate, UA) and As (in the form of sodium arsenite, As3+). Exposure to U or As3+ resulted in high levels of U or As in the GI tract of male and female mice, respectively. A reduction of small intestinal CD4+ IELs (TCRαβ+, CD8αα+) was found following As3+ exposure, whereas U produced widespread suppression of CD4- IEL subsets (TCRαβ+ and TCRγδ+). Evaluation of innate immune cell subsets in the small intestinal lamina propria revealed a decrease in mature macrophages, along with a corresponding increase in immature/proinflammatory macrophages following As3+ exposures. These data show that exposures to two prevalent environmental contaminants, U and As produce significant immunotoxicity in the GI tract. Collectively, these findings provide a critical framework for understanding the underlying immune health issues reported in human populations chronically exposed to environmental metals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Medina
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Fredine T Lauer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Eliseo F Castillo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Alicia M Bolt
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Abdul-Mehdi S Ali
- Department of Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Ke Jian Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Scott W Burchiel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, Albuquerque, NM, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Meltzer GY, Watkins BX, Vieira D, Zelikoff JT, Boden-Albala B. A Systematic Review of Environmental Health Outcomes in Selected American Indian and Alaska Native Populations. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2020; 7:698-739. [PMID: 31974734 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-020-00700-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Economic and social marginalization among American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/ANs) results in higher chronic disease prevalence. Potential causal associations between toxic environmental exposures and adverse health outcomes within AI/AN communities are not well understood. OBJECTIVES This review examines epidemiological literature on exposure to toxicants and associated adverse health outcomes among AI/AN populations. METHODS PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Environment Complete, Web of Science Plus, DART, and ToxLine were searched for English-language articles. The following data were extracted: lead author's last name, publication year, cohort name, study location, AI/AN tribe, study initiation and conclusion, sample size, primary characteristic, environmental exposure, health outcomes, risk estimates, and covariates. RESULTS About 31 articles on three types of environmental exposures met inclusion criteria: persistent organic pollutants (POPs), heavy metals, and open dumpsites. Of these, 17 addressed exposure to POPs, 10 heavy metal exposure, 2 exposure to both POPs and heavy metals, and 2 exposure to open dumpsites. Studies on the Mohawk Nation at Akwesasne; Yupik on St. Lawrence Island, Alaska; Navajo Nation; Gila River Indian Community; Cheyenne River Sioux; 197 Alaska Native villages; and 13 tribes in Arizona, Oklahoma, North Dakota, and South Dakota that participated in the Strong Heart Study support associations between toxicant exposure and various chronic conditions including cardiovascular conditions, reproductive abnormalities, cancer, autoimmune disorders, neurological deficits, and diabetes. DISCUSSION The complex interplay of environmental and social factors in disease etiology among AI/ANs is a product of externally imposed environmental exposures, systemic discrimination, and modifiable risk behaviors. The connection between environmental health disparities and adverse health outcomes indicates a need for further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Y Meltzer
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, New York University School of Global Public Health, 715/719 Broadway, New York, NY, 10003, USA.
| | - Beverly-Xaviera Watkins
- Department of Epidemiology, New York University School of Global Public Health, 715/719 Broadway, New York, NY, 10003, USA
| | - Dorice Vieira
- Health Sciences Library, New York University School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Judith T Zelikoff
- Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, 341 East 25th Street, New York, NY, 10010, USA
| | - Bernadette Boden-Albala
- Department of Population Health, University of California Irvine, 653 East Peltason Drive, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Urinary Metals Concentrations and Biomarkers of Autoimmunity among Navajo and Nicaraguan Men. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17155263. [PMID: 32707746 PMCID: PMC7432079 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17155263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Metals are suspected contributors of autoimmune disease among indigenous Americans. However, the association between metals exposure and biomarkers of autoimmunity is under-studied. In Nicaragua, environmental exposure to metals is also largely unexamined with regard to autoimmunity. We analyzed pooled and stratified exposure and outcome data from Navajo (n = 68) and Nicaraguan (n = 47) men of similar age and health status in order to characterize urinary concentrations of metals, compare concentrations with the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) male population, and examine the associations with biomarkers of autoimmunity. Urine samples were analyzed for metals via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Serum samples were examined for antinuclear antibodies (ANA) at 1:160 and 1:40 dilutions, using an indirect immunofluorescence assay and for specific autoantibodies using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Logistic regression analyses evaluated associations of urinary metals with autoimmune biomarkers, adjusted for group (Navajo or Nicaraguan), age, and seafood consumption. The Nicaraguan men had higher urinary metal concentrations compared with both NHANES and the Navajo for most metals; however, tin was highest among the Navajo, and uranium was much higher in both populations compared with NHANES. Upper tertile associations with ANA positivity at the 1:160 dilution were observed for barium, cesium, lead, strontium and tungsten.
Collapse
|
10
|
McSorley EM, van Wijngaarden E, Yeates AJ, Spence T, Mulhern MS, Harrington D, Thurston SW, Love T, Jusko TA, Allsopp PJ, Conway MC, Davidson PW, Myers GJ, Watson GE, Shamlaye CF, Strain JJ. Methylmercury and long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids are associated with immune dysregulation in young adults from the Seychelles child development study. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 183:109072. [PMID: 32007747 PMCID: PMC7213642 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.109072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to the environmental toxicant mercury (Hg) has been associated with immune dysregulation, including autoimmune disease, but few human studies have examined methylmercury (MeHg) exposure from fish consumption. OBJECTIVES We examined associations between MeHg exposure and biological markers of autoimmunity and inflammation while adjusting for long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA). METHOD At age 19 years, hair total Hg (Y19Hg), LCPUFA status, a panel of 13 antinuclear antibodies (ANA), total serum immunoglobulins (Ig) IgG, IgA, and IgM and serum markers of inflammation (IL-1, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, C-reactive protein (CRP), IFN-γ, TNF-α) were measured in the Seychelles Child Development Study (SCDS) Main Cohort (n = 497). Multivariable regression models investigated the association between Y19Hg and biomarkers, adjusting for prenatal total hair Hg (MatHg) and other relevant covariates, and with and without adjustment for LCPUFA. RESULTS With each 1 ppm increase in Y19Hg (mean 10.23 (SD 6.02) ppm) we observed a 4% increased odds in a positive Combined ANA following adjustment for the n6:n3 LCPUFA ratio (β = 0.036, 95%; CI: 0.001, 0.073). IgM was negatively associated with Y19Hg (β = -0.016, 95%CI: 0.016, -0.002) in models adjusted for n-3, n-6 LCPUFA and when separately adjusted for the n-6:n-3 LCPUFA ratio. No associations were observed with MatHg. Total n-3 LCPUFA status was associated with reduced odds of a positive anti-ribonuclear protein (RNP) A. The n-3 LCPUFA were negatively associated with IL-6, IL-10, CRP, IFN-γ, TNF-α and positively with TNF-α:IL-10. There were positive associations between the n-6:n-3 ratio and IL-6, IL-10, CRP, IFN-γ, TNF-α and a negative association with TNF-α:IL-10. DISCUSSION The Y19Hg exposure was associated with higher ANA and lower IgM albeit only following adjustment for the n-3 LCPUFA or the n-6:n-3 LCPUFA ratio. The clinical significance of these findings is unclear, but warrant follow up at an older age to determine any relationship to the onset of autoimmune disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emeir M McSorley
- The Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom.
| | | | - Alison J Yeates
- The Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Toni Spence
- The Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Maria S Mulhern
- The Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Donald Harrington
- The School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Sally W Thurston
- The School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Tanzy Love
- The School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Todd A Jusko
- The School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Philip J Allsopp
- The Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Marie C Conway
- The Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Philip W Davidson
- The School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Gary J Myers
- The School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Gene E Watson
- The School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, NY, United States
| | | | - J J Strain
- The Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Samuel-Nakamura C, Hodge FS, Sokolow S, Ali AMS, Robbins WA. Metal(loid)s in Cucurbita pepo in a Uranium Mining Impacted Area in Northwestern New Mexico, USA. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16142569. [PMID: 31323819 PMCID: PMC6679051 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16142569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Revised: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
More than 500 unreclaimed mines and associated waste sites exist on the Navajo Nation reservation as a result of uranium (U) mining from the 1940s through the 1980s. For this study, the impact of U-mine waste on a common, locally grown crop food was examined. The goal of this site-specific study was to determine metal(loid) concentration levels of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), cesium (Cs), molybdenum (Mo), lead (Pb), thorium (Th), U, vanadium (V) and selenium (Se) in Cucurbita pepo Linnaeus (squash), irrigation water, and soil using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. The concentrations of metal(loid)s were greatest in roots > leaves > edible fruit (p < 0.05), respectively. There were significant differences between metal(loid)s in squash crop plot usage (<5 years versus >30 years) for V (p = 0.001), As (p < 0.001), U (p = 0.002), Cs (p = 0.012), Th (p = 0.040), Mo (p = 0.047), and Cd (p = 0.042). Lead and Cd crop irrigation water concentrations exceeded the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Maximum Contaminant Levels for drinking water for those metals. Edible squash concentration levels were 0.116 mg/kg of As, 0.248 mg/kg of Pb, 0.020 mg/kg of Cd, and 0.006 mg/kg of U. Calculated human ingestion of edible squash did not exceed Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake or Tolerable Upper Limit levels from intake based solely on squash consumption. There does not appear to be a food-ingestion risk from metal(loid)s solely from consumption of squash. Safer access and emphasis on consuming regulated water was highlighted. Food intake recommendations were provided. Continued monitoring, surveillance, and further research are recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine Samuel-Nakamura
- School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), 4-246 Factor Bldg., Mailcode 691821, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Felicia S Hodge
- School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), 5-940 Factor Bldg., Mailcode 691921, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Sophie Sokolow
- School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), 5-238 Factor Bldg., Mailcode 691921, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Abdul-Mehdi S Ali
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of New Mexico, Northrop Hall MSCO 3-2040 Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Wendie A Robbins
- Center for Occupational and Environmental Health Fielding School of Public Health, Environmental Health Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), 5-254 Factor Bldg., Mailcode 956919, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bolt AM, Medina S, Lauer FT, Liu KJ, Burchiel SW. Minimal uranium immunotoxicity following a 60-day drinking water exposure to uranyl acetate in male and female C57BL/6J mice. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2019; 372:33-39. [PMID: 30978399 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2019.04.003] [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: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Historical uranium (U) mining in the Southwestern United States resulted in significant environmental contamination throughout this region and presents a significant risk of chronic metal exposure and toxicity for communities living in close proximity to mine waste sites. Uranium exposure is associated with numerous deleterious health effects including immune dysfunction; however, its effects on the immune system have yet to be fully characterized. We recently published that drinking water exposure to U, in the form of uranyl acetate (UA), results in low overall tissue retention of U (<0.01%), with very little accumulation in immune organs (blood, bone marrow, spleen, and thymus) of male and female mice. In the present study we characterized the immunotoxicity of U, in the form of UA, following a 60-day drinking water exposure to 5 and 50 ppm in male and female C57BL/6J mice. The following immunotoxicity endpoints were evaluated: hematology, immune tissue weights and total cell recoveries, immunophenotying of the spleen and thymus, and immune cell function (lymphocyte mitogenesis and T-dependent antibody response). Uranium exposure had subtle impacts on the immune endpoints evaluated, likely due to low U accumulation at these sites. The only significant alterations were a slight decrease in the percentages of splenic natural killer T-cells and macrophages in exposed male mice. Despite minimal immunological effects, this study highlights the importance of investigating toxicological endpoints in both sexes and developing accurate animal models that model epidemiological exposures in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alicia M Bolt
- The University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States of America.
| | - Sebastian Medina
- The University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States of America
| | - Fredine T Lauer
- The University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States of America
| | - Ke Jian Liu
- The University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States of America
| | - Scott W Burchiel
- The University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Pollard KM, Cauvi DM, Toomey CB, Hultman P, Kono DH. Mercury-induced inflammation and autoimmunity. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2019; 1863:129299. [PMID: 30742953 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2019.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2018] [Revised: 01/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human exposure to mercury leads to a variety of pathologies involving numerous organ systems including the immune system. A paucity of epidemiological studies and suitable diagnostic criteria, however, has hampered collection of sufficient data to support a causative role for mercury in autoimmune diseases. Nevertheless, there is evidence that mercury exposure in humans is linked to markers of inflammation and autoimmunity. This is supported by experimental animal model studies, which convincingly demonstrate the biological plausibility of mercury as a factor in the pathogenesis of autoimmune disease. SCOPE OF THE REVIEW In this review, we focus on ability of mercury to elicit inflammatory and autoimmune responses in both humans and experimental animal models. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS Although subtle differences exist, the inflammatory and autoimmune responses elicited by mercury exposure in humans and experimental animal models show many similarities. Proinflammatory cytokine expression, lymphoproliferation, autoantibody production, and nephropathy are common outcomes. Animal studies have revealed significant strain dependent differences in inflammation and autoimmunity suggesting genetic regulation. This has been confirmed by the requirement for individual genes as well as genome wide association studies. Importantly, many of the genes required for mercury-induced inflammation and autoimmunity are also required for idiopathic systemic autoimmunity. A notable difference is that mercury-induced autoimmunity does not require type I IFN. This observation suggests that mercury-induced autoimmunity may arise by both common and specific pathways, thereby raising the possibility of devising criteria for environmentally associated autoimmunity. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE Mercury exposure likely contributes to the pathogenesis of autoimmunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Michael Pollard
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037, United States of America.
| | - David M Cauvi
- Department of Surgery and Center for Investigations of Health and Education Disparities, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive #0739, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America.
| | - Christopher B Toomey
- Shiley Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive #0946, La Jolla, CA 92093.
| | - Per Hultman
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Dwight H Kono
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Scripps Research, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Pinto BI, Lujan OR, Ramos SA, Propper CR, Kellar RS. Estrogen Mitigates the Negative Effects of Arsenic Contamination in an In Vitro Wound Model. APPLIED IN VITRO TOXICOLOGY 2018; 4:24-29. [PMID: 30956995 PMCID: PMC5881251 DOI: 10.1089/aivt.2017.0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Arsenic, a naturally occurring environmental contaminant, is harmful to humans at elevated concentrations. Increased levels of arsenic in the environment occur as a result of human activities and from natural geologically sourced leaching into ground and surface water. These sources pose an exposure risk above the USEPA standard to individuals whose food and water sources become contaminated. Arsenic exposure negatively impacts organ function and increases the risk for developing pathologies, including cancer. Some of the effects of arsenic on cancer translate to normal cell function in wound healing. To evaluate whether arsenic influences wound healing, an in vitro scratch assay was employed to study the effects of arsenic on cellular migration, which is a key component in the normal wound-healing process. In this study, skin cells were exposed to environmentally relevant concentrations of arsenic, and wound closure was evaluated. Results indicated that arsenic significantly decreased the rate of cellular migration in the scratch assay when compared with controls. In addition, estradiol, which has been shown to positively influence cellular and tissue processes involved in wound healing, reversed the slowing effects of arsenic on wound closure. These results suggest that arsenic contamination may inhibit, and estrogen may provide a therapeutic benefit for individuals with arsenic-contaminated wounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bronson I. Pinto
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona
- Center for Bioengineering Innovation, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona
| | - Oscar R. Lujan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona
| | - Stephan A. Ramos
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona
| | - Catherine R. Propper
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona
- Center for Bioengineering Innovation, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona
| | - Robert S. Kellar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona
- Center for Bioengineering Innovation, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW More than a century of hard rock mining has left a legacy of >160,000 abandoned mines in the Western USA that are home to the majority of Native American lands. This article describes how abrogation of treaty rights, ineffective policies, lack of infrastructure, and a lack of research in Native communities converge to create chronic exposure, ill-defined risks, and tribal health concerns. RECENT FINDINGS Recent results show that Native Americans living near abandoned uranium mines have an increased likelihood for kidney disease and hypertension, and an increased likelihood of developing multiple chronic diseases linked to their proximity to the mine waste and activities bringing them in contact with the waste. Biomonitoring confirms higher than expected exposure to uranium and associated metals in the waste in adults, neonates, and children in these communities. These sites will not be cleaned up for many generations making it critical to understand and prioritize exposure-toxicity relationships in Native populations to appropriately allocate limited resources to protect health. Recent initiatives, in partnership with Native communities, recognize these needs and support development of tribal research capacity to ensure that research respectful of tribal culture and policies can address concerns in the future. In addition, recognition of the risks posed by these abandoned sites should inform policy change to protect community health in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johnnye Lewis
- Community Environmental Health Program, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, 1000 Stanford Drive NE, MSC095360, Albuquerque, NM, 87131-0001, USA.
| | - Joseph Hoover
- Community Environmental Health Program, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, 1000 Stanford Drive NE, MSC095360, Albuquerque, NM, 87131-0001, USA
| | - Debra MacKenzie
- Community Environmental Health Program, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, 1000 Stanford Drive NE, MSC095360, Albuquerque, NM, 87131-0001, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Crowe W, Allsopp PJ, Watson GE, Magee PJ, Strain JJ, Armstrong DJ, Ball E, McSorley EM. Mercury as an environmental stimulus in the development of autoimmunity - A systematic review. Autoimmun Rev 2016; 16:72-80. [PMID: 27666813 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2016.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases result from an interplay of genetic predisposition and factors which stimulate the onset of disease. Mercury (Hg), a well-established toxicant, is an environmental factor reported to be linked with autoimmunity. Hg exists in several chemical forms and is encountered by humans in dental amalgams, certain vaccines, occupational exposure, atmospheric pollution and seafood. Several studies have investigated the effect of the various forms of Hg, including elemental (Hg0), inorganic (iHg) and organic mercury (oHg) and their association with autoimmunity. In vitro studies using peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from healthy participants have shown that methylmercury (MeHg) causes cell death at lower concentrations than iHg albeit exposure to iHg results in a more enhanced pro-inflammatory profile in comparison to MeHg. In vivo research utilising murine models susceptible to the development of metal-induced autoimmunity report that exposure to iHg results in a lupus-like syndrome, whilst mice exposed to MeHg develop autoimmunity without the formation of immune complexes. Furthermore, lower concentrations of IgE are detected in MeHg-treated animals in comparison with those treated with iHg. It appears that, oHg has a negative impact on animal models with existing autoimmunity. The research conducted on humans in this area is diverse in study design and the results are conflicting. There is currently no evidence to implicate a role for Hg0 exposure from dental amalgams in the development or perpetuation of autoimmune disease, apart from some suggestion of individual sensitivity. Several studies have consistently shown a positive correlation between iHg exposure and serum autoantibody concentrations in gold miners, although the clinical impact of iHg remains unknown. Furthermore, a limited number of studies have reported individuals with autoimmune disease have higher concentrations of blood Hg compared to healthy controls. In summary, it appears that iHg perpetuates markers of autoimmunity to a greater extent than oHg, albeit the impact on clinical outcomes in humans is yet to be elucidated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William Crowe
- Northern Ireland Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), Ulster University, BT52 1SA, Northern, Ireland.
| | - Philip J Allsopp
- Northern Ireland Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), Ulster University, BT52 1SA, Northern, Ireland.
| | - Gene E Watson
- Eastman Institute for Oral Health and Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642, United States.
| | - Pamela J Magee
- Northern Ireland Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), Ulster University, BT52 1SA, Northern, Ireland.
| | - J J Strain
- Northern Ireland Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), Ulster University, BT52 1SA, Northern, Ireland.
| | - David J Armstrong
- Department of Rheumatology, Altnagelvin Area Hospital, Glenshane Road, Londonderry BT47 6SB, Northern, Ireland.
| | - Elizabeth Ball
- Department of Rheumatology, Musgrave Park Hospital, Stockman's Lane, Belfast, BT9 7JB, Northern, Ireland.
| | - Emeir M McSorley
- Northern Ireland Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), Ulster University, BT52 1SA, Northern, Ireland.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Pollard KM. Environment, autoantibodies, and autoimmunity. Front Immunol 2015; 6:60. [PMID: 25717329 PMCID: PMC4324151 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2015.00060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2015] [Accepted: 01/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Michael Pollard
- Department of Molecular and Experimental Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute , La Jolla, CA , USA
| |
Collapse
|