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Nossa G, Monsivais H, Lee CG, Francis G, Wells EM, Park JH, Dydak U. Do toenail manganese and iron levels reflect brain metal levels or brain metabolism in welders? Neurotoxicology 2024; 104:45-55. [PMID: 39002648 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2024.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Inhalation of welding fumes can cause metal accumulation in the brain, leading to Parkinsonian-like symptoms. Metal accumulation and altered neurochemical profiles have been observed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in highly exposed welders, being associated with decreased motor function and cognition. While MRI is impractical to use as a health risk assessment tool in occupational settings, toenail metal levels are easier to assess and have been demonstrated to reflect an exposure window of 7-12 months in the past. Yet, it is unclear whether toenail metal levels are associated with brain metal levels or changes in metabolism, which are the root of potential health concerns. This study investigates whether toenail manganese (Mn) and iron (Fe) levels, assessed at several time points, correlate with brain Mn and Fe levels, measured by MRI, as well as brain GABA, glutamate (Glu), and glutathione (GSH) levels, measured by Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS), in seventeen Mn-exposed welders. Quantitative T1 and R2* MRI maps of the whole brain, along with GABA, Glu, and GSH MRS measurements from the thalamus and cerebellum were acquired at baseline (T0). Toenail clippings were collected at T0 and every three months after the MRI for a year to account for different exposure periods being reflected by toenail clippings and MRI. Spearman correlations of toenail metal levels were run against brain metal and metabolite levels, but no significant associations were found for Mn at any timepoint. Cerebellar GSH positively correlated with toenail Fe clipped twelve months after the MRI (p = 0.05), suggesting an association with Fe exposure at the time of the MRI. Neither thalamic GABA nor Glu correlated with toenail Fe levels. In conclusion, this study cannot support toenail Mn as a proxy for brain Mn levels or metabolic changes, while toenail Fe appears linked to brain metabolic alterations, underscoring the importance of considering other metals, including Fe, in studying Mn neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianna Nossa
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Humberto Monsivais
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Chang Geun Lee
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Grace Francis
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Ellen M Wells
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States; Department of Public Health, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Jae Hong Park
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Ulrike Dydak
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States; Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States.
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2
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Kiss DS, Toth I, Bartha T, Jerzsele A, Zsarnovszky A, Pasztine Gere E, Ondrasovicova S, Varro P, Kovago C. Effects of metal oxide inhalation on the transcription of some hormone receptors in the brain, examined in an in vivo mouse model. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:51834-51843. [PMID: 39134792 PMCID: PMC11374873 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-34425-0] [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: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Respirable metal oxide nanoparticles in welding fumes pose significant health risks upon inhalation, potentially leading to neurodegenerative diseases. While the exact mechanisms remain unclear, it is evident that metal oxide nanoparticles can disrupt cellular functions, including metabolism and inflammatory responses after crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Our study investigates the impact of manual metal arc welding fumes on hormone receptor transcription in an in vivo mouse model. After collecting samples from six different brain regions at 24 and 96 h upon exposure, we focused on expression levels of estrogen receptors (ERs), thyroid hormone receptors (TRs), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) due to their roles in modulating neuroprotective responses and neuroinflammatory processes. Analysis revealed differential susceptibility of brain regions to hormonal disruption induced by welding fumes, with the hypothalamus (HT) and olfactory bulb (OB) showing prominent changes in receptor expression. Considering ERs, 24 h sampling showed an elevation in OB, with later increases in both ERα and ERβ. HT showed significant ERβ change only by 96 h. TRs mirrored ER patterns, with notable changes in OB and less in HT. PPARγ followed TR trends, with early upregulation in HT and downregulation elsewhere. These findings suggest a compensatory response within the CNS aimed at mitigating neuroinflammatory effects, as evidenced by the upregulation of ERβ, TRα, and PPARγ. The coordinated increase in ERs, TRs, and PPARs in the hypothalamus and olfactory bulb also highlights their potential neuroprotective roles in response to welding fume exposure. Our results also support the theory of metal oxide penetration to the CNS via the lungs-blood-BBB pathway, making HT and OB more vulnerable to welding fume exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Sandor Kiss
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Istvan Toth
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Tibor Bartha
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Akos Jerzsele
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Attila Zsarnovszky
- Department of Physiology and Animal Health, Hungarian University of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Godollo, Hungary
- Agribiotechnology and Precision Breeding for Food Security National Laboratory, Institute of Physiology and Nutrition, Department of Physiology and Animal Health, Hungarian University of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Godollo, Hungary
| | - Erzsebet Pasztine Gere
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Silvia Ondrasovicova
- Department of Biology and Physiology, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Petra Varro
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, Institute of Biology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Csaba Kovago
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
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3
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Sarawi WS, Attia HA, Alomar HA, Alhaidar R, Rihan E, Aldurgham N, Ali RA. The protective role of sesame oil against Parkinson's-like disease induced by manganese in rats. Behav Brain Res 2024; 465:114969. [PMID: 38548024 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2024.114969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Chronic exposure to manganese (Mn) results in motor dysfunction, biochemical and pathological alterations in the brain. Oxidative stress, inflammation, and dysfunction of dopaminergic and GABAergic systems stimulate activating transcription factor-6 (ATF-6) and protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK) leading to apoptosis. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of sesame oil (SO) against Mn-induced neurotoxicity. Rats received 25 mg/kg MnCl2 and were concomitantly treated with 2.5, 5, or 8 ml/kg of SO for 5 weeks. Mn-induced motor dysfunction was indicated by significant decreases in the time taken by rats to fall during the rotarod test and in the number of movements observed during the open field test. Also, Mn resulted in neuronal degeneration as observed by histological staining. The striatal levels of lipid peroxides and reduced glutathione (oxidative stress markers), interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α (inflammatory markers) were significantly elevated. Mn significantly reduced the levels of dopamine and Bcl-2, while GABA, PERK, ATF-6, Bax, and caspase-3 were increased. Interestingly, all SO doses, especially at 8 ml/kg, significantly improved locomotor activity, biochemical deviations and reduced neuronal degeneration. In conclusion, SO may provide potential therapeutic benefits in enhancing motor performance and promoting neuronal survival in individuals highly exposed to Mn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wedad S Sarawi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 22452, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Hala A Attia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 22452, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hatun A Alomar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 22452, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rawan Alhaidar
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 22452, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Esraa Rihan
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 22452, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nora Aldurgham
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 22452, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rehab A Ali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 22452, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
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4
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Dernbach MR, Carpenter JE. Case Files of the Emory University Medical Toxicology Fellowship: A Patient Presents to the Outpatient Toxicology Clinic with Delusions of Being Poisoned. J Med Toxicol 2024; 20:233-244. [PMID: 38378951 PMCID: PMC10959915 DOI: 10.1007/s13181-024-00995-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Robert Dernbach
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Emory University, 50 Hurt Plaza SE, Suite 600, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA.
- Georgia Poison Center, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Joseph E Carpenter
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Emory University, 50 Hurt Plaza SE, Suite 600, Atlanta, GA, 30303, USA
- Georgia Poison Center, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Berger MM, Shenkin A, Dizdar OS, Amrein K, Augsburger M, Biesalski HK, Bischoff SC, Casaer MP, Gundogan K, Lepp HL, de Man AME, Muscogiuri G, Pietka M, Pironi L, Rezzi S, Schweinlin A, Cuerda C. ESPEN practical short micronutrient guideline. Clin Nutr 2024; 43:825-857. [PMID: 38350290 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2024.01.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trace elements and vitamins, named together micronutrients (MNs), are essential for human metabolism. The importance of MNs in common pathologies is recognized by recent research, with deficiencies significantly impacting the outcome. OBJECTIVE This short version of the guideline aims to provide practical recommendations for clinical practice. METHODS An extensive search of the literature was conducted in the databases Medline, PubMed, Cochrane, Google Scholar, and CINAHL for the initial guideline. The search focused on physiological data, historical evidence (for papers published before PubMed release in 1996), and observational and/or randomized trials. For each MN, the main functions, optimal analytical methods, impact of inflammation, potential toxicity, and provision during enteral or parenteral nutrition were addressed. The SOP wording was applied for strength of recommendations. RESULTS The limited number of interventional trials prevented meta-analysis and led to a low level of evidence for most recommendations. The recommendations underwent a consensus process, which resulted in a percentage of agreement (%): strong consensus required of >90 % of votes. Altogether the guideline proposes 3 general recommendations and specific recommendations for the 26 MNs. Monitoring and management strategies are proposed. CONCLUSION This short version of the MN guideline should facilitate handling of the MNs in at-risk diseases, whilst offering practical advice on MN provision and monitoring during nutritional support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette M Berger
- Faculty of Biology & Medicine, Lausanne University, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Alan Shenkin
- Institute of Aging and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.
| | - Oguzhan Sıtkı Dizdar
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition Unit, University of Health Sciences Kayseri City Training and Research Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Karin Amrein
- Medical University of Graz, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Austria.
| | - Marc Augsburger
- University Centre of Legal Medicine Lausanne-Geneva, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Geneva University Hospital and University of Geneva, Lausanne-Geneva, Switzerland.
| | | | - Stephan C Bischoff
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany.
| | - Michael P Casaer
- KU Leuven, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Laboratory of Intensive Care Medicine, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Kursat Gundogan
- Division of Intensive Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | | | - Angélique M E de Man
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Research VUmc Intensive Care (REVIVE), Amsterdam Cardiovascular Science (ACS), Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute (AI&II), Amsterdam Medical Data Science (AMDS), Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Giovanna Muscogiuri
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università di Napoli (Federico II), Naples, Italy; United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Chair for Health Education and Sustainable Development, Federico II University, Naples, Italy.
| | - Magdalena Pietka
- Pharmacy Department, Stanley Dudrick's Memorial Hospital, Skawina, Poland.
| | - Loris Pironi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Italy; Centre for Chronic Intestinal Failure, IRCCS AOUBO, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Serge Rezzi
- Swiss Nutrition and Health Foundation, Epalinges, Switzerland.
| | - Anna Schweinlin
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany.
| | - Cristina Cuerda
- Departamento de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Nutrition Unit, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain.
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Zaks N, Austin C, Arora M, Reichenberg A. Reprint of: Elemental dysregulation in psychotic spectrum disorders: A review and research synthesis. Schizophr Res 2022; 247:33-40. [PMID: 36075821 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2022.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence from observational studies, genetic research, and animal models suggests a relationship between toxic and nutritive elements and psychotic spectrum disorders (PSD). This review systematically evaluates the current research evidence for two hypotheses: 1) that exposures to abnormal levels of toxic and nutritive elements early in life contributes to the subsequent development of PSD, and 2) that an imbalance of element levels is linked to psychotic illness and clinical severity. We focused on the extant literature on five elements, lead (Pb), copper (Cu), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn), because of their previously documented associations with psychiatric problems and the availability of pertinent literature. The review identified 38 studies of which 11 measured Pb, 27 measured Cu, 16 measured Mg, 15 measured Mn, and 25 measured Zn concentrations in PSD patients and controls. A majority of research has been conducted on nutritive element imbalance, and findings are largely mixed. While it is biologically plausible that element dysregulation is an important modifiable risk factor for PSD, more research into exposure in early life is needed to better characterize this relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Zaks
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai, NY, USA
| | - Christine Austin
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai, NY, USA
| | - Manish Arora
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai, NY, USA
| | - Abraham Reichenberg
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai, NY, USA; Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai, NY, USA; Seaver Center of Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai, NY, USA; Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
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7
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Berger MM, Shenkin A, Schweinlin A, Amrein K, Augsburger M, Biesalski HK, Bischoff SC, Casaer MP, Gundogan K, Lepp HL, de Man AME, Muscogiuri G, Pietka M, Pironi L, Rezzi S, Cuerda C. ESPEN micronutrient guideline. Clin Nutr 2022; 41:1357-1424. [PMID: 35365361 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2022.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 205] [Impact Index Per Article: 102.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trace elements and vitamins, named together micronutrients (MNs), are essential for human metabolism. Recent research has shown the importance of MNs in common pathologies, with significant deficiencies impacting the outcome. OBJECTIVE This guideline aims to provide information for daily clinical nutrition practice regarding assessment of MN status, monitoring, and prescription. It proposes a consensus terminology, since many words are used imprecisely, resulting in confusion. This is particularly true for the words "deficiency", "repletion", "complement", and "supplement". METHODS The expert group attempted to apply the 2015 standard operating procedures (SOP) for ESPEN which focuses on disease. However, this approach could not be applied due to the multiple diseases requiring clinical nutrition resulting in one text for each MN, rather than for diseases. An extensive search of the literature was conducted in the databases Medline, PubMed, Cochrane, Google Scholar, and CINAHL. The search focused on physiological data, historical evidence (published before PubMed release in 1996), and observational and/or randomized trials. For each MN, the main functions, optimal analytical methods, impact of inflammation, potential toxicity, and provision during enteral or parenteral nutrition were addressed. The SOP wording was applied for strength of recommendations. RESULTS There was a limited number of interventional trials, preventing meta-analysis and leading to a low level of evidence. The recommendations underwent a consensus process, which resulted in a percentage of agreement (%): strong consensus required of >90% of votes. Altogether the guideline proposes sets of recommendations for 26 MNs, resulting in 170 single recommendations. Critical MNs were identified with deficiencies being present in numerous acute and chronic diseases. Monitoring and management strategies are proposed. CONCLUSION This guideline should enable addressing suboptimal and deficient status of a bundle of MNs in at-risk diseases. In particular, it offers practical advice on MN provision and monitoring during nutritional support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette M Berger
- Department of Adult Intensive Care, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Alan Shenkin
- Institute of Aging and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.
| | - Anna Schweinlin
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany.
| | - Karin Amrein
- Medical University of Graz, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Austria.
| | - Marc Augsburger
- University Centre of Legal Medicine Lausanne-Geneva, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Geneva University Hospital and University of Geneva, Lausanne-Geneva, Switzerland.
| | | | - Stephan C Bischoff
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany.
| | - Michael P Casaer
- KU Leuven, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Laboratory of Intensive Care Medicine, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Kursat Gundogan
- Division of Intensive Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | | | - Angélique M E de Man
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Research VUmc Intensive Care (REVIVE), Amsterdam Cardiovascular Science (ACS), Amsterdam Infection and Immunity Institute (AI&II), Amsterdam Medical Data Science (AMDS), Amsterdam UMC, Location VUmc, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Giovanna Muscogiuri
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università di Napoli (Federico II), Naples, Italy; United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Chair for Health Education and Sustainable Development, Federico II, University, Naples, Italy.
| | - Magdalena Pietka
- Pharmacy Department, Stanley Dudrick's Memorial Hospital, Skawina, Poland.
| | - Loris Pironi
- Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Italy; IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Centre for Chronic Intestinal Failure - Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism Unit, Italy.
| | - Serge Rezzi
- Swiss Nutrition and Health Foundation (SNHf), Epalinges, Switzerland.
| | - Cristina Cuerda
- Departamento de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Nutrition Unit, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain.
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Nižnanský Ľ, Nižnanská Ž, Kuruc R, Szórádová A, Šikuta J, Zummerová A. Ayahuasca as a Decoction Applied to Human: Analytical Methods, Pharmacology and Potential Toxic Effects. J Clin Med 2022; 11:1147. [PMID: 35207420 PMCID: PMC8880227 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11041147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ahyahuasca is a term commonly used to describe a decoction prepared by cooking the bark or crushed stems of the liana Banisteriopsis caapi (contains β-carbolines) alone or in combination with other plants, most commonly leaves of the shrub Psychotria viridis (contains N,N-dimethyltryptamine-DMT). More than 100 different plants can serve as sources of β-carbolines and DMT, which are the active alkaloids of this decoction, and therefore it is important to know the most accurate composition of the decoction, especially when studying the pharmacology of this plant. The aim was to summarize the latest sensitive methods used in the analysis of the composition of the beverage itself and the analysis of various biological matrices. We compared pharmacokinetic parameters in all of the studies where decoction of ayahuasca was administered and where its composition was known, whereby minimal adverse effects were observed. The therapeutic benefit of this plant is still unclear in the scientific literature, and side effects occur probably on the basis of pre-existing psychiatric disorder. We also described toxicological risks and clinical benefits of ayahuasca intake, which meant that the concentrations of active alkaloids in the decoction or in the organism, often not determined in publications, were required for sufficient evaluation of its effect on the organism. We did not find any post-mortem study, in which the toxicological examination of biological materials together with the autopsy findings would suggest potential lethality of this plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ľuboš Nižnanský
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Health Care Surveillance Authority, Antolská 11, 85107 Bratislava, Slovakia; (R.K.); (A.S.); (J.Š.); (A.Z.)
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Sasinková 4, 81108 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Žofia Nižnanská
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Health Care Surveillance Authority, Antolská 11, 85107 Bratislava, Slovakia; (R.K.); (A.S.); (J.Š.); (A.Z.)
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Sasinková 4, 81108 Bratislava, Slovakia
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, Mlynská Dolina, Ilkovičova 6, 84215 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Roman Kuruc
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Health Care Surveillance Authority, Antolská 11, 85107 Bratislava, Slovakia; (R.K.); (A.S.); (J.Š.); (A.Z.)
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Sasinková 4, 81108 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Andrea Szórádová
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Health Care Surveillance Authority, Antolská 11, 85107 Bratislava, Slovakia; (R.K.); (A.S.); (J.Š.); (A.Z.)
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Sasinková 4, 81108 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Ján Šikuta
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Health Care Surveillance Authority, Antolská 11, 85107 Bratislava, Slovakia; (R.K.); (A.S.); (J.Š.); (A.Z.)
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Sasinková 4, 81108 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Anežka Zummerová
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Health Care Surveillance Authority, Antolská 11, 85107 Bratislava, Slovakia; (R.K.); (A.S.); (J.Š.); (A.Z.)
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Sasinková 4, 81108 Bratislava, Slovakia
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9
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Elemental dysregulation in psychotic spectrum disorders: A review and research synthesis. Schizophr Res 2021; 233:64-71. [PMID: 34242950 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2021.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence from observational studies, genetic research, and animal models suggests a relationship between toxic and nutritive elements and psychotic spectrum disorders (PSD). This review systematically evaluates the current research evidence for two hypotheses: 1) that exposures to abnormal levels of toxic and nutritive elements early in life contributes to the subsequent development of PSD, and 2) that an imbalance of element levels is linked to psychotic illness and clinical severity. We focused on the extant literature on five elements, lead (Pb), copper (Cu), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn), because of their previously documented associations with psychiatric problems and the availability of pertinent literature. The review identified 38 studies of which 11 measured Pb, 27 measured Cu, 16 measured Mg, 15 measured Mn, and 25 measured Zn concentrations in PSD patients and controls. A majority of research has been conducted on nutritive element imbalance, and findings are largely mixed. While it is biologically plausible that element dysregulation is an important modifiable risk factor for PSD, more research into exposure in early life is needed to better characterize this relationship.
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10
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Using Coffee Pulp as Bioadsorbent for the Removal of Manganese (Mn (II)) from Synthetic Wastewater. WATER 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/w12092500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This research focuses on the removal of contaminants from wastewaters as a matter of great interest in the field of water pollution. The first decades of the 21st century have brought numerous approaches for the development of cheaper and more effective adsorbents capable of eliminating heavy metals. The study aims to examine the way coffee pulp (Castilla variety from Caldas, Colombia) was used as a bioadsorbent for the removal of Mn (II) from synthetic wastewater to fulfill goals 3 and 6 proposed in the Sustainable Development Goals stated for the 2030 Agenda, particularly in Sections 3.9 and 6.9. In order to achieve this objective, the agricultural residue was subjected to bromatological characterization, determination of the lignocellulosic composition, and identification of characteristic organic functional groups through IR spectrophotometry, using the ATR (attenuated total reflection) technique. Additionally, the optimal parameters for contaminant removal were identified, regarding the biomass quantity, the optimum pH, the stirring time, the adsorption kinetics, the zero charge potential (pHpzc), the adsorption isotherms, and the explanation of the possible adsorption mechanisms between the contaminant, the surface of the coffee pulp, and the capacity of maximum adsorption. The results show that lignocellulosic material presented a cellulose content of 29.93 ± 0.21% and a lignin content of 19.25 ± 0.16%. The optimum parameters found were as follows: Particle size of 180 µm, contact time from 90 min to 100 RPM, optimum pH of 4.0 pH units, room temperature; the kinetic model adjusted to the bioadsorption process was Ho and McKay’s pseudo-second-order, under an isotherm of the Langmuir model, for which the removal presented was 53.40%, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 8.01 mg·g−1. Finally, the novelty of the reported research consists of using coffee pulp as a bioadsorbent without chemical modification, for the removal of heavy metals, in this case Mn (II), in industrial wastewater, which would be another application of this coffee by-product.
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Nwanaji-Enwerem JC, Colicino E, Specht AJ, Gao X, Wang C, Vokonas P, Weisskopf MG, Boyer EW, Baccarelli AA, Schwartz J. Individual species and cumulative mixture relationships of 24-hour urine metal concentrations with DNA methylation age variables in older men. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 186:109573. [PMID: 32361261 PMCID: PMC7363532 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, toxic metal exposures are a well-recognized risk factor for many adverse health outcomes. DNA methylation-based measures of biological aging are predictive of disease, but have poorly understood relationships with metal exposures. OBJECTIVE We performed a pilot study examining the relationships of 24-h urine metal concentrations with three novel DNA methylation-based measures of biological aging: DNAmAge, GrimAge, and PhenoAge. METHODS We utilized a previously established urine panel of five common metals [arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), and mercury (Hg)] found in a subset of the elderly US Veterans Affairs Normative Aging Study cohort (N = 48). The measures of DNA methylation-based biological age were calculated using CpG sites on the Illumina HumanMethylation450 BeadChip. Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) was used to determine metals most important to the aging outcomes and the relationship of the cumulative metal mixture with the outcomes. Individual relationships of important metals with the biological aging outcomes were modeled using fully-adjusted linear models controlling for chronological age, renal function, and lifestyle/environmental factors. RESULTS Mn was selected as important to PhenoAge. A 1 ng/mL increase in urine Mn was associated with a 9.93-year increase in PhenoAge (95%CI: 1.24, 18.61, p = 0.03). The cumulative urine metal mixture was associated with increases in PhenoAge. Compared to a model where each metal in the mixture is set to its 50th percentile value, every one-unit increase of the cumulative mixture with each metal at its 70th percentile was associated with a 2.53-year increase in PhenoAge (95%CI: 0.10, 4.96, P<0.05). CONCLUSION Our results add novel evidence that metals detected in urine are associated with increases in biological aging and suggest that these DNA methylation-based measures may be useful for identifying individuals at-risk for diseases related to toxic metal exposures. Further research is necessary to confirm these findings more broadly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamaji C Nwanaji-Enwerem
- Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, and MD/PhD Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Elena Colicino
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Aaron J Specht
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Xu Gao
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cuicui Wang
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Pantel Vokonas
- VA Normative Aging Study, Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System and the Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marc G Weisskopf
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Edward W Boyer
- Division of Medical Toxicology, Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andrea A Baccarelli
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joel Schwartz
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Mechanism of Manganese Dysregulation of Dopamine Neuronal Activity. J Neurosci 2020; 40:5871-5891. [PMID: 32576620 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2830-19.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Manganese exposure produces Parkinson's-like neurologic symptoms, suggesting a selective dysregulation of dopamine transmission. It is unknown, however, how manganese accumulates in dopaminergic brain regions or how it regulates the activity of dopamine neurons. Our in vivo studies in male C57BLJ mice suggest that manganese accumulates in dopamine neurons of the VTA and substantia nigra via nifedipine-sensitive Ca2+ channels. Manganese produces a Ca2+ channel-mediated current, which increases neurotransmitter release and rhythmic firing activity of dopamine neurons. These increases are prevented by blockade of Ca2+ channels and depend on downstream recruitment of Ca2+-activated potassium channels to the plasma membrane. These findings demonstrate the mechanism of manganese-induced dysfunction of dopamine neurons, and reveal a potential therapeutic target to attenuate manganese-induced impairment of dopamine transmission.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Manganese is a trace element critical to many physiological processes. Overexposure to manganese is an environmental risk factor for neurologic disorders, such as a Parkinson's disease-like syndrome known as manganism. We found that manganese concentration-dependently increased the excitability of dopamine neurons, decreased the amplitude of action potentials, and narrowed action potential width. Blockade of Ca2+ channels prevented these effects as well as manganese accumulation in the mouse midbrain in vivo Our data provide a potential mechanism for manganese regulation of dopaminergic neurons.
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Moyano P, García JM, Anadon MJ, Lobo M, García J, Frejo MT, Sola E, Pelayo A, Pino JD. Manganese induced ROS and AChE variants alteration leads to SN56 basal forebrain cholinergic neuronal loss after acute and long-term treatment. Food Chem Toxicol 2019; 125:583-594. [PMID: 30738988 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2019.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2018] [Revised: 01/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Manganese (Mn) induces cognitive disorders and basal forebrain (BF) cholinergic neuronal loss, involved on learning and memory regulation, which could be the cause of such cognitive disorders. However, the mechanisms through which it induces these effects are unknown. We hypothesized that Mn could induce BF cholinergic neuronal loss through oxidative stress generation, cholinergic transmission and AChE variants alteration that could explain Mn cognitive disorders. This study shows that Mn impaired cholinergic transmission in SN56 cholinergic neurons from BF through alteration of AChE and ChAT activity and CHT expression. Moreover, Mn induces, after acute and long-term exposure, AChE variants alteration and oxidative stress generation that leaded to lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation. Finally, Mn induces cell death on SN56 cholinergic neurons and this effect is independent of cholinergic transmission alteration, but was mediated partially by oxidative stress generation and AChE variants alteration. Our results provide new understanding of the mechanisms contributing to the harmful effects of Mn on cholinergic neurons and their possible involvement in cognitive disorders induced by Mn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Moyano
- Department of Legal Medicine, Psychiatry and Pathology, Medical School, Complutense University of Madrid, 28041, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Manuel García
- Department of Legal Medicine, Psychiatry and Pathology, Medical School, Complutense University of Madrid, 28041, Madrid, Spain
| | - María José Anadon
- Department of Legal Medicine, Psychiatry and Pathology, Medical School, Complutense University of Madrid, 28041, Madrid, Spain
| | - Margarita Lobo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Veterinary School, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jimena García
- Department of Pharmacology, Health Sciences School, Alfonso X University, 28691, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Teresa Frejo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Veterinary School, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Emma Sola
- Department of Legal Medicine, Psychiatry and Pathology, Medical School, Complutense University of Madrid, 28041, Madrid, Spain
| | - Adela Pelayo
- Department of Legal Medicine, Psychiatry and Pathology, Medical School, Complutense University of Madrid, 28041, Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Del Pino
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Veterinary School, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040, Madrid, Spain.
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Atypical Neuropsychiatric Presentation in a Patient Expecting Liver Transplantation. Case Rep Transplant 2018; 2018:4609631. [PMID: 30112246 PMCID: PMC6077324 DOI: 10.1155/2018/4609631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Revised: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients presenting with acute or chronic hepatopathy can develop altered mental status with psychomotor slowing, most commonly indicating encephalopathy. We present the case of a 56-year-old patient who developed subacute atypical neuropsychiatric symptoms including cognitive and behavioural disorganization, manic-like state, and lateralized parkinsonian syndrome. The sequence of events, complete work-up, and detailed neuropsychiatric examination were not compatible with hepatic encephalopathy or delirium; therefore we extended our differential diagnosis and suggested the pathophysiological process described below.
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Iqbal G, Zada W, Mannan A, Ahmed T. Elevated heavy metals levels in cognitively impaired patients from Pakistan. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2018; 60:100-109. [PMID: 29684799 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2018.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Revised: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The deficit in the visuospatial skills, thinking, learning and memory is termed as cognitive impairment. Human exposure to heavy metals is a potential risk factor for developing cognitive impairment. This study aimed to investigate the possible association between the concentration of heavy metals and the extent of cognitive impairment. Blood samples were subjected to microwave assisted acid digestion and evaluated for metals levels using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. We measured the levels of Cu, Pb, Al, Zn, Cd and Mn in 183 patients diagnosed with cognitive impairment; mild (n = 72), moderate (n = 86) and severe (n = 25) and compared them to age-matched healthy controls (n = 90). Results showed that all the aforementioned elements were significantly higher in cognitively impaired patients and increasing concentration was strongly correlated with increase in severity of the disease. The correlation study has shown that among the studied metals, Al and Cu are strongly associated with the cognitive impairment. This suggests the need for decrease in metal exposure to humans from environment, food and industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazala Iqbal
- Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Healthcare Biotechnology, Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Sector H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Wahid Zada
- Department of Pharmacy, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Abbottabad, 22060, K.P.K, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Mannan
- Department of Pharmacy, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Abbottabad, 22060, K.P.K, Pakistan
| | - Touqeer Ahmed
- Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Healthcare Biotechnology, Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Sector H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan.
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Is it Possible for Late-Onset Schizophrenia to Masquerade as Manganese Psychosis? J Occup Environ Med 2018; 60:e207-e209. [DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Disease-Toxicant Interactions in Parkinson's Disease Neuropathology. Neurochem Res 2016; 42:1772-1786. [PMID: 27613618 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-016-2052-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Revised: 08/25/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Human disease commonly manifests as a result of complex genetic and environmental interactions. In the case of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease (PD), understanding how environmental exposures collude with genetic polymorphisms in the central nervous system to cause dysfunction is critical in order to develop better treatment strategies, therapies, and a more cohesive paradigm for future research. The intersection of genetics and the environment in disease etiology is particularly relevant in the context of their shared pathophysiological mechanisms. This review offers an integrated view of disease-toxicant interactions in PD. Particular attention is dedicated to how mutations in the genes SNCA, parkin, leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) and DJ-1, as well as dysfunction of the ubiquitin proteasome system, may contribute to PD and how exposure to heavy metals, pesticides and illicit drugs may further the consequences of these mutations to exacerbate PD and PD-like disorders. Although the toxic effects induced by exposure to these environmental factors may not be the primary causes of PD, their mechanisms of action are critical for our current understanding of the neuropathologies driving PD. Elucidating how environment and genetics collude to cause pathogenesis of PD will facilitate the development of more effective treatments for the disease. Additionally, we discuss the neuroprotection exerted by estrogen and other compounds that may prevent PD and provide an overview of current treatment strategies and therapies.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article presents a new hypothesis about the possible relation between early life exposure to metals and psychosis. We review limitations of available research, and discuss novel approaches to overcome previous methodological barriers. RECENT FINDINGS Mechanistic studies suggest a possible association between excess lead, manganese, cadmium, arsenic, or copper, and zinc deficiency, and several biochemical disturbances related to psychosis, such as altered neurotransmitters levels, excitotoxicity, and inflammation. Furthermore, studies suggest that some metals (lead, manganese, cadmium excess, and zinc deficiency) are associated with schizophrenia or psychosis-related phenotype. However, previous studies had multiple methodological limitations. Importantly, metal exposure was often measured after disease development and seldom determined during critical developmental periods. Most studies fell short of depicting the exact timing of exposure and the change in exposure over time. Here, we propose several methods to overcome these methodological limitations. SUMMARY There is a plausible role of early life exposure to metals in the cause of psychosis. Owing to methodological limitations in exposure measurement, this has not been well characterized. Considering the wide exposure to metals and the high cost of psychosis to society, this hypothesis should be rigorously examined.
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Evaluation of neurobehavioral and neuroinflammatory end-points in the post-exposure period in rats sub-acutely exposed to manganese. Toxicology 2013; 314:95-9. [PMID: 24060432 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2013.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2013] [Revised: 09/12/2013] [Accepted: 09/13/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Manganese (Mn) can cause manganism, a neurological disorder similar to Parkinson' Disease (PD). The neurobehavioral and neuroinflammatory end-points in the Mn post exposure period have not been studied yet. Rats were injected on alternate days with 8 doses of MnCl2 (25mg/kg) or saline, then euthanized 1, 10, 30 or 70 days following the last dose. Whole-blood (WB) (p<0.05), urine (p<0.05) and brain cortical (p<0.0001) Mn levels were significantly increased 24h after the last dose. Decreases in the rats' ambulation were noted 1, 10 and 30 days after the last Mn dose (p<0.001; p<0.05; p<0.001, respectively) and also in the rearing activity at the four time-points (p<0.05). Cortical glial fibrillary acid protein immunoreactivity (GFAP-ir) was significantly increased at 1, 10, 30 (p<0.0001) and 70 (p<0.001) days after the last Mn dose, as well as tumor necrosis α (TNF-α) levels (p<0.05) but just on day 1. Taken together, the results show that, during the 70-day clearance phase of Mn, the recovery is not immediate as behavioral alterations and neuroinflammation persist long after Mn is cleared from the cortical brain compartment.
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Guilarte TR, Opler M, Pletnikov M. Is lead exposure in early life an environmental risk factor for Schizophrenia? Neurobiological connections and testable hypotheses. Neurotoxicology 2012; 33:560-74. [PMID: 22178136 PMCID: PMC3647679 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2011.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2011] [Revised: 11/30/2011] [Accepted: 11/30/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a devastating neuropsychiatric disorder of unknown etiology. There is general agreement in the scientific community that schizophrenia is a disorder of neurodevelopmental origin in which both genes and environmental factors come together to produce a schizophrenia phenotype later in life. The challenging questions have been which genes and what environmental factors? Although there is evidence that different chromosome loci and several genes impart susceptibility for schizophrenia; and epidemiological studies point to broad aspects of the environment, only recently there has been an interest in studying gene × environment interactions. Recent evidence of a potential association between prenatal lead (Pb(2+)) exposure and schizophrenia precipitated the search for plausible neurobiological connections. The most promising connection is that in schizophrenia and in developmental Pb(2+) exposure there is strong evidence for hypoactivity of the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) subtype of excitatory amino acid receptors as an underlying neurobiological mechanism in both conditions. A hypofunction of the NMDA receptor (NMDAR) complex during critical periods of development may alter neurobiological processes that are essential for brain growth and wiring, synaptic plasticity and cognitive and behavioral outcomes associated with schizophrenia. We also describe on-going proof of concept gene-environment interaction studies of early life Pb(2+) exposure in mice expressing the human mutant form of the disrupted in schizophrenia 1 (DISC-1) gene, a gene that is strongly associated with schizophrenia and allied mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomás R Guilarte
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY 10032, United States.
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