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Paing YMM, Eom Y, Lee SH. Benzopyrene represses mitochondrial fission factors and PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy in primary astrocytes. Toxicology 2024; 508:153926. [PMID: 39147092 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2024.153926] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Mitochondria are essential for various physiological functions in astrocytes in the brain, such as maintaining ion and pH homeostasis, regulating neurotransmission, and modulating neuroinflammation. Mitophagy, a form of autophagy specific to mitochondria, is essential for ensuring mitochondrial quality and function. Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) accumulates in the brain, and exposure to it is recognized as an environmental risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases. However, while the toxic mechanisms of BaP have been investigated in neurons, their effects on astrocytes-the most prevalent glial cells in the brain-are not clearly understood. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the toxic effects of exposure to BaP on mitochondria in primary astrocytes. Fluorescent probes and genetically encoded indicators were utilized to visualize mitochondrial morphology and physiology, and regulatory factors involved in mitochondrial morphology and mitophagy were assessed. Additionally, the mitochondrial respiration rate was measured in BaP-exposed astrocytes. BaP exposure resulted in mitochondrial enlargement owing to the suppression of mitochondrial fission factors. Furthermore, BaP-exposed astrocytes demonstrated reduced mitophagy and exhibited aberrant mitochondrial function and physiology, such as altered mitochondrial respiration rates, increased mitochondrial superoxide, disrupted mitochondrial membrane potential, and dysregulated mitochondrial Ca2+. These findings offer insights into the underlying toxic mechanisms of BaP exposure in neurodegenerative diseases by inducing aberrant mitophagy and mitochondrial dysfunction in astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunn Me Me Paing
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Yunkyung Eom
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Hoon Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea.
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2
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Pattarachotanant N, Sukjamnong S, Rangsinth P, Chaikhong K, Sillapachaiyaporn C, Leung GPH, Hu VW, Sarachana T, Chuchawankul S, Tencomnao T, Prasansuklab A. Aquilaria crassna Extract Exerts Neuroprotective Effect against Benzo[a]pyrene-Induced Toxicity in Human SH-SY5Y Cells: An RNA-Seq-Based Transcriptome Analysis. Nutrients 2024; 16:2727. [PMID: 39203863 PMCID: PMC11357018 DOI: 10.3390/nu16162727] [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: 07/27/2024] [Revised: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) is known to inhibit neurodifferentiation and induce neurodegeneration. Agarwood or Aquilaria crassna (AC), a plant with health-promoting properties, may counteract the neurotoxic effects of B[a]P by promoting neuronal growth and survival. This study investigated the protective effect of AC leaf ethanolic extract (ACEE) on the B[a]P-induced impairment of neuronal differentiation. A transcriptomic analysis identified the canonical pathway, the biological network, and the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that are changed in response to neuronal differentiation and neurogenesis. Several genes, including CXCR4, ENPP2, GAP43, GFRA2, NELL2, NFASC, NSG2, NGB, BASP1, and NEUROD1, in B[a]P-treated SH-SY5Y cells were up-regulated after treatment with ACEE. Notably, a Western blot analysis further confirmed that ACEE increased the protein levels of GAP43 and neuroglobin. B[a]P treatment led to decreased phosphorylation of Akt and increased phosphorylation of ERK in SH-SY5Y cells; however, ACEE was able to reverse these effects. Clionasterol and lupenone were identified in ACEE. Molecular docking showed that these two phytochemicals had significant interactions with CXCR4, GDNF family receptor alpha (GFRA), and retinoid X receptors (RXRs). In conclusion, ACEE may be a potential alternative medicine for the prevention of impaired neuronal differentiation and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nattaporn Pattarachotanant
- Center of Excellence on Natural Products for Neuroprotection and Anti-Ageing (Neur-Age Natura), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Suporn Sukjamnong
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Chulalongkorn Autism Research and Innovation Center of Excellence (Chula ACE), Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Panthakarn Rangsinth
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kamonwan Chaikhong
- Center of Excellence on Natural Products for Neuroprotection and Anti-Ageing (Neur-Age Natura), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Chanin Sillapachaiyaporn
- Center of Excellence on Natural Products for Neuroprotection and Anti-Ageing (Neur-Age Natura), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - George Pak-Heng Leung
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Valerie W Hu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20037, USA
| | - Tewarit Sarachana
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Chulalongkorn Autism Research and Innovation Center of Excellence (Chula ACE), Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Siriporn Chuchawankul
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Tewin Tencomnao
- Center of Excellence on Natural Products for Neuroprotection and Anti-Ageing (Neur-Age Natura), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Anchalee Prasansuklab
- Center of Excellence on Natural Products for Neuroprotection and Anti-Ageing (Neur-Age Natura), Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- College of Public Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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3
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McClarty BM, Rodriguez G, Dong H. Class 1 histone deacetylases differentially modulate memory and synaptic genes in a spatial and temporal manner in aged and APP/PS1 mice. Brain Res 2024; 1837:148951. [PMID: 38642789 PMCID: PMC11182336 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2024.148951] [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: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
Epigenetics plays a vital role in aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD); however, whether epigenetic alterations during aging can initiate AD and exacerbate AD progression remains unclear. In this study, using 3-, 12- and 18- month-old APP/PS1 mice and age matched WT littermates, we conducted a series of memory tests, measured synapse-related gene expression, class 1 histone deacetylases (HDACs) abundance, and H3K9ac levels at target gene promoters in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (PFC). Our results showed impaired recognition and long-term spatial memory in 18-month-old WT mice and impaired recognition, short-term working, and long-term spatial reference memory in 12-and 18- month-old APP/PS1 mice. These memory impairments are associated with changes of synapse-related gene (nr2a, glur1, glur2, psd95) expression, HDAC abundance, and H3K9ac levels; more specifically, increased HDAC2 was associated with synapse-related gene expression changes through modulation of H3K9ac at the gene promoters during aging and AD progression in the hippocampus. Conversely, increased HDAC3 was associated with synapse-related gene expression changes through modulation of H3K9ac at the gene promoters during AD progression in the PFC. These findings suggest memory impairments in aging and AD may associated with a differential HDAC modulation of synapse-related gene expression in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan M McClarty
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 East Chicago Avenue, Ward 7-103, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Guadalupe Rodriguez
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 East Chicago Avenue, Ward 7-103, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Hongxin Dong
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 East Chicago Avenue, Ward 7-103, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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4
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Goal A, Raj K, Singh S, Arora R. Protective effects of Embelin in Benzo[α]pyrene induced cognitive and memory impairment in experimental model of mice. CURRENT RESEARCH IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 6:100122. [PMID: 38616958 PMCID: PMC11015058 DOI: 10.1016/j.crneur.2023.100122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that affects the neurons in the hippocampus, resulting in cognitive and memory impairment. The most prominent clinical characteristics of AD are the production of amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and neuroinflammation in neurons. It has been proven that embelin (Emb) possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. Therefore, we assessed the therapeutic potential of Emb in Benzo [α]pyrene (BaP)-induced cognitive impairment in experimental mice. BaP (5 mg/kg, i. p) was given to mice daily for 28 days, and Emb (2.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg, i. p) was given from 14 to 28 days of a protocol. In addition, locomotor activity was evaluated using open-field and spatial working, and non-spatial memory was evaluated using novel object recognition tasks (NORT), Morris water maze (MWM), and Y- maze. At the end of the study, the animal tissue homogenate was used to check biochemicals, neuroinflammation, and neurotransmitter changes. BaP-treated mice showed a significant decline in locomotor activity, learning and memory deficits and augmented oxidative stress (lipid peroxidation, nitrite, and GSH). Further, BaP promoted the release of inflammatory tissue markers, decreased acetylcholine, dopamine, GABA, serotonin, and norepinephrine, and increased glutamate concentration. However, treatment with Emb at dose-dependently prevented biochemical changes, improved antioxidant levels, reduced neuroinflammation, restored neurotransmitter concentration, and inhibited the NF-κB pathway. The current study's finding suggested that Emb improved cognitive functions through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective mechanisms and inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme activities and Aβ-42 accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akansh Goal
- Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India, 142001
| | - Khadga Raj
- Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India, 142001
| | - Shamsher Singh
- Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India, 142001
| | - Rimpi Arora
- Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India, 142001
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Hu K, Pang T, Yang C, Han P, Li L, Wang P, Zhang Z, Zhao W, Zhang S. Simultaneous extraction of hydroxylated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and catecholamines with magnetic boronic acid hypercrosslinked polymers. J Chromatogr A 2023; 1712:464491. [PMID: 37931428 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2023.464491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Urinary hydroxylated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (OH-PAHs) and catecholamines (CAs) are important biomarkers of PAHs exposure. In this study, a novel magnetic boronic acid hypercrosslinked composite (Fe3O4@HCP-BA) is synthesized using a facile one-pot strategy and applied as a sorbent for the simultaneous extraction of OH-PAHs and CAs in urine samples. The synthesized Fe3O4@HCP-BA composites are characterized by rich pore structure, highly specific surface area, good magnetic response, and excellent selectivity and adsorption efficiency (range: 65.26-496.71 and 1227.3-1581.8 µmol g-1 for CAs and OH-PAHs, respectively). The mechanisms governing the adsorption of the OH-PAHs and CAs to the Fe3O4@HCP-BA composites were systematically studied via adsorption kinetics, isotherm models, XPS characterization, and molecular simulation. The resultant Fe3O4@HCP-BA composite-based MSPE/HPLC-FLD method exhibited good linearity (R2 > 0.9916), low limits of detection (0.2-0.3 pg mL-1 and 0.2-0.3 ng mL-1 for OH-PAHs and CAs, respectively), and good precision (intra-day and inter-day RSDs < 11.1%). The analysis of CAs and OH-PAHs in the urine samples from 14 smokers and 14 non-smokers revealed a positive correlation between the concentrations of CAs and OH-PAHs. Our findings not only establish the proposed method as a green, environmentally friendly, and simple strategy for preparing magnetic adsorbents, but also confirm it as a promising alternative method for accurate determination of OH-PAHs and CAs in biological samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Hu
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China.
| | - Tiantian Pang
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Cheng Yang
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Pengzhao Han
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Lixin Li
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Pan Wang
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Zhenqiang Zhang
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, China.
| | - Wenjie Zhao
- School of Chemistry, Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
| | - Shusheng Zhang
- Center for modern analysis and gene sequencing, Zhengzhou University, No. 100 of Kexue Road, Zhengzhou 450001, China
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Sun Q, Wang H, Yang M, Xia H, Wu Y, Liu Q, Tang H. miR-153-3p via PIK3R1 Is Involved in Cigarette Smoke-Induced Neurotoxicity in the Brain. TOXICS 2023; 11:969. [PMID: 38133370 PMCID: PMC10747656 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11120969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Cigarettes contain various chemicals that cause damage to nerve cells. Exposure to cigarette smoke (CS) causes insulin resistance (IR) in nerve cells. However, the mechanisms for a disorder in the cigarette-induced insulin signaling pathway and in neurotoxicity remain unclear. Therefore, we evaluated, by a series of pathology analyses and behavioral tests, the neurotoxic effects of chronic exposure to CS on C57BL/6 mice. Mice exposed to CS with more than 200 mg/m3 total particulate matter (TPM) exhibited memory deficits and cognitive impairment. Pathological staining of paraffin sections of mouse brain tissue revealed that CS-exposed mice had, in the brain, neuronal damage characterized by thinner pyramidal and granular cell layers and fewer neurons. Further, the exposure of SH-SY5Y cells to cigarette smoke extract (CSE) resulted in diminished insulin sensitivity and reduced glucose uptake in a dose-dependent fashion. The PI3K/GSK3 insulin signaling pathway is particularly relevant to neurotoxicity. microRNAs are involved in the PI3K/GSK3β/p-Tau pathway, and we found that cigarette exposure activates miR-153-3p, decreases PI3K regulatory subunits PIK3R1, and induces Tau hyperphosphorylation. Exposure to an miR-153 inhibitor or to a PI3K inhibitor alleviated the reduced insulin sensitivity caused by CS. Therefore, our results indicate that miR-153-3p, via PIK3R1, causes insulin resistance in the brain, and is involved in CS-induced neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Sun
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China; (Q.S.); (M.Y.); (Y.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Shenzhen, Shenzhen Medical Key Discipline of Health Toxicology (2020–2024), Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Hailan Wang
- Center for Global Health, The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (H.W.); (H.X.)
| | - Mingxue Yang
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China; (Q.S.); (M.Y.); (Y.W.)
| | - Haibo Xia
- Center for Global Health, The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (H.W.); (H.X.)
| | - Yao Wu
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China; (Q.S.); (M.Y.); (Y.W.)
| | - Qizhan Liu
- Center for Global Health, The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (H.W.); (H.X.)
| | - Huanwen Tang
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China; (Q.S.); (M.Y.); (Y.W.)
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Kim YK, Eom Y, Yoon H, Lee Y, Lee SH. Benzo[a]pyrene represses synaptic vesicle exocytosis by inhibiting P/Q-type calcium channels in hippocampal neurons. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 263:115301. [PMID: 37506439 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Humans are exposed to the common carcinogen benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) by ingesting contaminated foods and water or inhaling polluted air. Given the enriched lipids and reduced antioxidative properties in the brain and the accumulation of BaP in the brain due to its high lipophilicity, the brain is susceptible to BaP-induced toxicity. Exposure to BaP leads to impairments in learning and memory, increased anxiety behavior, and neuronal death. It induces protein dysfunctions in neuronal compartments that play essential roles in neuronal activity or physiology. However, the neurotoxicity of BaP on presynaptic terminals, which is crucial to neurotransmission by releasing synaptic vesicles that contain neurotransmitters, has not yet been investigated. In the present study, we investigated the toxicity of BaP at presynaptic terminals in living hippocampal neurons. These neurons were sourced from transgenic mice pups (postnatal 1-day, a total of 12 pups, equal numbers for each sex) that endogenously express synaptic vesicle-fused pHluorin, which is a green fluorescent protein that enables monitoring of synaptic vesicle dynamics. We observed that BaP suppressed synaptic vesicle exocytosis by inhibiting presynaptic Ca2+ entry via P/Q-type Ca2+ channels. Together with molecular docking simulation, we speculate that BaP and metabolites may bind to the P/Q Ca2+ channels. These results suggest the toxic mechanism of BaP exposure-induced abnormal behavior that provides a basis to evaluate the risk assessment of BaP-induced neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeong-Kyeong Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Yunkyung Eom
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Hongryul Yoon
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonji Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sung Hoon Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea.
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How CM, Cheng KC, Li YS, Pan MH, Wei CC. Tangeretin Supplementation Mitigates the Aging Toxicity Induced by Dietary Benzo[a]pyrene Exposure with Aberrant Proteostasis and Heat Shock Responses in Caenorhabditis elegans. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:13474-13482. [PMID: 37639537 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c02307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) is a common food contaminant that can impair organismal aging. Tangeretin (TAN) may mitigate aging toxicities as a dietary supplement. This study used Caenorhabditis elegans to investigate the effects of chronic exposure to BaP on aging and to determine whether TAN supplementation could alleviate BaP-induced toxicity. Early life exposure to BaP (10 μM) significantly inhibited growth by 5%, and exposure to 0.1 to 10 μM BaP impaired C. elegans motility, resulting in a 3.4-6.5% reduction in motility. Chronic exposure to BaP (10 μM) age-dependently aggravated aberrant protein aggregation (7% increase) and shortened the median lifespan of the worms from 20 to 16 days. In addition, BaP worsened the age-dependent decline in motility and pharyngeal pumping, as well as the accumulation of reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, exposure to BaP resulted in significantly higher relative transcript levels of approximately 1.8-2.0-fold for the hsp-16.1, hsp-16.2, hsp-16.49, and hsp-70 genes. Stressed worms exposed to BaP exhibited significantly lower survival under heat stress. Dietary TAN supplementation alleviated the BaP-induced decline in motility, pumping, and poly-Q accumulation and restored heat shock proteins' transcript levels. Our findings suggest that chronic BaP exposure adversely affects aging and that TAN exposure mitigates the BaP-induced aging toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Ming How
- Institute of Food Safety and Health, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10055, Taiwan
| | - Ko-Chun Cheng
- Institute of Food Safety and Health, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10055, Taiwan
| | - Yong-Shan Li
- Institute of Food Safety and Health, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10055, Taiwan
| | - Min-Hsiung Pan
- Institute of Food Science and Technology, College of Bio-Resources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Cheng Wei
- Institute of Food Safety and Health, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10055, Taiwan
- Department of Public Health, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10055, Taiwan
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Zhang J, Li Y, Li H, Liu A, Cao J, Li X, Xia N, Zhang Z, Bai J, Zhang H. Aspirin ameliorates the neurotoxicity of benzo[a]pyrene in mice and HT22 cells: Possible role of miRNA-mRNA network. Food Chem Toxicol 2023:113919. [PMID: 37364758 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.113919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) is neurotoxic, however, the mechanism and potential prevention are yet not clear. This study explored the miRNA-mRNA network in the B[a]P-induced neurotoxicity in mice and HT22 cells and the intervention of aspirin (ASP). HT22 cells were treated for 48 h with DMSO, B[a]P (20 μM), or both B[a]P (20 μM) and ASP (4 μM). Following B[a]P treatment, compared to the DMSO controls, HT22 cells showed injured cell morphology, reduced cell viability and neurotrophic factor concentrations, and increased LDH leakage, Aβ1-42, and inflammatory factor concentrations, which were improved by ASP. RNA sequencing and qPCR verified the significant differences of miRNA and mRNA profiles following B[a]P treatment, which were rescued by ASP. Bioinformatics analysis suggested the miRNA-mRNA network could be involved in the neurotoxicity of B[a]P and the intervention of ASP. The neurotoxicity and neuroinflammation were induced in mice's brains by B[a]P, and the target miRNA and mRNA were proved to be consistent with in vitro, which were ameliorated by ASP. The findings demonstrate a possible role of miRNA-mRNA network in the B[a]P-induced neurotoxicity. If this is confirmed by additional experiments, it will provide a promising pathway of intervention against B[a]P, using ASP or other agents with fewer toxic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinfeng Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Yangyang Li
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Huan Li
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Aixiang Liu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Jingjing Cao
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Xin Li
- Center of Disease Control and Prevention, Taiyuan Iron and Steel Company, Taiyuan, 030003, Shanxi, China
| | - Na Xia
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Zhihong Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Jianying Bai
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Hongmei Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Coal Environmental Pathogenicity and Prevention (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, China; Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China; Department of Physiology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China.
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10
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Naby WSHAE, Zong C, Fergany A, Ekuban FA, Ahmed S, Reda Y, Sato H, Ichihara S, Kubota N, Yanagita S, Ichihara G. Exposure to Benzo[a]pyrene Decreases Noradrenergic and Serotonergic Axons in Hippocampus of Mouse Brain. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9895. [PMID: 37373040 PMCID: PMC10297856 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24129895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological studies showed the association between air pollution and dementia. A soluble fraction of particulate matters including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) is suspected to be involved with the adverse effects of air pollution on the central nervous system of humans. It is also reported that exposure to benzopyrene (B[a]P), which is one of the PAHs, caused deterioration of neurobehavioral performance in workers. The present study investigated the effect of B[a]P on noradrenergic and serotonergic axons in mouse brains. In total, 48 wild-type male mice (10 weeks of age) were allocated into 4 groups and exposed to B[a]P at 0, 2.88, 8.67 or 26.00 µg/mice, which is approximately equivalent to 0.12, 0.37 and 1.12 mg/kg bw, respectively, by pharyngeal aspiration once/week for 4 weeks. The density of noradrenergic and serotonergic axons was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in the hippocampal CA1 and CA3 areas. Exposure to B[a]P at 2.88 µg/mice or more decreased the density of noradrenergic or serotonergic axons in the CA1 area and the density of noradrenergic axons in the CA3 area in the hippocampus of mice. Furthermore, exposure to B[a]P dose-dependently upregulated Tnfα at 8.67 µg/mice or more, as well as upregulating Il-1β at 26 µg/mice, Il-18 at 2.88 and 26 µg/mice and Nlrp3 at 2.88 µg/mice. The results demonstrate that exposure to B[a]P induces degeneration of noradrenergic or serotonergic axons and suggest the involvement of proinflammatory or inflammation-related genes with B[a]P-induced neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walaa Slouma Hamouda Abd El Naby
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Noda 278-8510, Japan
- Genetics and Genetic Engineering in Department of Animal Husbandry and Animal Wealth Development, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21500, Egypt
| | - Cai Zong
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Noda 278-8510, Japan
| | - Alzahraa Fergany
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Noda 278-8510, Japan
- Genetics and Genetic Engineering in Department of Animal Husbandry and Animal Wealth Development, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21500, Egypt
| | - Frederick Adams Ekuban
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Noda 278-8510, Japan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Saleh Ahmed
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Noda 278-8510, Japan
| | - Yousra Reda
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Noda 278-8510, Japan
| | - Harue Sato
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Noda 278-8510, Japan
| | - Sahoko Ichihara
- Department of Environmental and Preventive Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke 329-0498, Japan
| | - Natsuko Kubota
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Noda 278-8510, Japan
| | - Shinya Yanagita
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Noda 278-8510, Japan
| | - Gaku Ichihara
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Noda 278-8510, Japan
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11
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Guarnieri G, Becatti M, Squecco R, Comeglio P, Garella R, Tamburrino L, Marchiani S, Vignozzi L, Vannelli GB, Maggi M, Morelli A. Effects of benzo[a]pyrene on the reproductive axis: Impairment of kisspeptin signaling in human gonadotropin-releasing hormone primary neurons. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 317:120766. [PMID: 36460192 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The neuroendocrine control of reproduction is strictly coordinated at the central level by the pulsatile release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) by the hypothalamic GnRH neurons. Alterations of the GnRH-network, especially during development, lead to long-term reproductive and systemic consequences, also causing infertility. Recent evidence shows that benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), a diffuse pollutant that can play a role as an endocrine disruptor, affects gonadal function and gamete maturation, whereas data demonstrating its impact at hypothalamic level are very scarce. This study investigated the effects of BaP (10 μM) in a primary cell culture isolated from the human fetal hypothalamus (hfHypo) and exhibiting a clear GnRH neuron phenotype. BaP significantly decreased gene and protein expression of both GnRH and kisspeptin receptor (KISS1R), the master regulator of GnRH neuron function. Moreover, BaP exposure increased phospho-ERK1/2 signaling, a well-known mechanism associated with KISS1R activation. Interestingly, BaP altered the electrophysiological membrane properties leading to a significant depolarizing effect and it also significantly increased GnRH release, with both effects being not affected by kisspeptin addition. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that BaP may alter GnRH neuron phenotype and function, mainly interfering with KISS1R signaling and GnRH secretion and therefore with crucial mechanisms implicated in the central neuroendocrine control of reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Guarnieri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Matteo Becatti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Roberta Squecco
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Paolo Comeglio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Rachele Garella
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Lara Tamburrino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Sara Marchiani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Linda Vignozzi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy; I.N.B.B. (Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture e Biosistemi), Rome, Italy
| | | | - Mario Maggi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy; I.N.B.B. (Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture e Biosistemi), Rome, Italy
| | - Annamaria Morelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
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12
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Kaumbekova S, Torkmahalleh MA, Shah D. Ambient Benzo[a]pyrene's Effect on Kinetic Modulation of Amyloid Beta Peptide Aggregation: A Tentative Association between Ultrafine Particulate Matter and Alzheimer's Disease. TOXICS 2022; 10:786. [PMID: 36548619 PMCID: PMC9785023 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10120786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Long-time exposure to ambient ultrafine particles is associated with an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is triggered by the aggregation of Aβ peptide monomers into toxic oligomers. Among different ultrafine air pollutants, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are known to have a negative neural impact; however, the impact mechanism remains obscure. We herein examined the effect of Benzo[a]Pyrene (B[a]P), one of the typical PAHs on Aβ42 oligomerization using all-atom molecular dynamics simulations. In particular, the simulations were performed using four molecules of Aβ42 in the presence of 5.00 mM, 12.5 mM, and 50.0 mM of B[a]P. The results revealed strong hydrophobic interactions between Aβ42 peptides and B[a]P, which in turn resulted in increased interpeptide electrostatic interactions. Furthermore, 5.00 mM of B[a]P accelerated the kinetics of the formation of peptide tetramer by 30%, and stabilized C-terminus in Aβ42 peptides, suggesting consequent progression of AD in the presence of 5.00 mM B[a]P. In contrast, 12.5 mM and 50.0 mM of B[a]P decreased interpeptide interactions and H-bonding due to the aggregation of numerous B[a]P clusters with the peptides, suppressing oligomerization kinetics of Aβ42 peptides by 13% and 167%, respectively. While the study elucidates the effect of small environmental hydrophobic molecules on the formation of Aβ oligomers, the impact of ambient ultrafine particles on AD in the complex composition of the environmental realm requires further systematic delving into the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samal Kaumbekova
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, School of Engineering and Digital Sciences, Nazarbayev University, Kabanbay Batyr 53, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Mehdi Amouei Torkmahalleh
- Division of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Dhawal Shah
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, School of Engineering and Digital Sciences, Nazarbayev University, Kabanbay Batyr 53, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
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13
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Fu C, Li Y, Xi H, Niu Z, Chen N, Wang R, Yan Y, Gan X, Wang M, Zhang W, Zhang Y, Lv P. Benzo(a)pyrene and cardiovascular diseases: An overview of pre-clinical studies focused on the underlying molecular mechanism. Front Nutr 2022; 9:978475. [PMID: 35990352 PMCID: PMC9386258 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.978475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) is a highly toxic and carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) whose toxicological effects in the vessel-wall cells have been recognized. Many lines of evidence suggest that tobacco smoking and foodborne BaP exposure play a pivotal role in the dysfunctions of vessel-wall cells, such as vascular endothelial cell and vascular smooth muscle cells, which contribute to the formation and worsening of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). To clarify the underlying molecular mechanism of BaP-evoked CVDs, the present study mainly focused on both cellular and animal reports whose keywords include BaP and atherosclerosis, abdominal aortic aneurysm, hypertension, or myocardial injury. This review demonstrated the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and its relative signal transduction pathway exert a dominant role in the oxidative stress, inflammation response, and genetic toxicity of vessel-wall cells. Furthermore, antagonists and synergists of BaP are also discussed to better understand its mechanism of action on toxic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenghao Fu
- Department of Cell Biology, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yuemin Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Hao Xi
- Department of Cell Biology, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Zemiao Niu
- Department of Cell Biology, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Ning Chen
- Department of Cell Biology, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Rong Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yonghuan Yan
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xiaoruo Gan
- Department of Cell Biology, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Mengtian Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Eco-Environmental Monitoring Center of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China.,Hebei Food Safety Key Laboratory, Hebei Food Inspection and Research Institute, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Pin Lv
- Department of Cell Biology, Cardiovascular Medical Science Center, Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology of Ministry of Education, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
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14
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Bukowska B, Mokra K, Michałowicz J. Benzo[ a]pyrene-Environmental Occurrence, Human Exposure, and Mechanisms of Toxicity. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:6348. [PMID: 35683027 PMCID: PMC9181839 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) is the main representative of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and has been repeatedly found in the air, surface water, soil, and sediments. It is present in cigarette smoke as well as in food products, especially when smoked and grilled. Human exposure to B[a]P is therefore common. Research shows growing evidence concerning toxic effects induced by this substance. This xenobiotic is metabolized by cytochrome P450 (CYP P450) to carcinogenic metabolite: 7β,8α-dihydroxy-9α,10α-epoxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydrobenzo[a]pyrene (BPDE), which creates DNA adducts, causing mutations and malignant transformations. Moreover, B[a]P is epigenotoxic, neurotoxic, and teratogenic, and exhibits pro-oxidative potential and causes impairment of animals' fertility. CYP P450 is strongly involved in B[a]P metabolism, and it is simultaneously expressed as a result of the association of B[a]P with aromatic hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), playing an essential role in the cancerogenic potential of various xenobiotics. In turn, polymorphism of CYP P450 genes determines the sensitivity of the organism to B[a]P. It was also observed that B[a]P facilitates the multiplication of viruses, which may be an additional problem with the widespread COVID-19 pandemic. Based on publications mainly from 2017 to 2022, this paper presents the occurrence of B[a]P in various environmental compartments and human surroundings, shows the exposure of humans to this substance, and describes the mechanisms of its toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bożena Bukowska
- Department of Biophysics of Environmental Pollution, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Pomorska Str. 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland; (K.M.); (J.M.)
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15
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Bottero V, Santiago JA, Quinn JP, Potashkin JA. Key Disease Mechanisms Linked to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in Spinal Cord Motor Neurons. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:825031. [PMID: 35370543 PMCID: PMC8965442 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.825031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease with no modifying treatments available. The molecular mechanisms underpinning disease pathogenesis are not fully understood. Recent studies have employed co-expression networks to identify key genes, known as “switch genes”, responsible for dramatic transcriptional changes in the blood of ALS patients. In this study, we directly investigate the root cause of ALS by examining the changes in gene expression in motor neurons that degenerate in patients. Co-expression networks identified in ALS patients’ spinal cord motor neurons revealed 610 switch genes in seven independent microarrays. Switch genes were enriched in several pathways, including viral carcinogenesis, PI3K-Akt, focal adhesion, proteoglycans in cancer, colorectal cancer, and thyroid hormone signaling. Transcription factors ELK1 and GATA2 were identified as key master regulators of the switch genes. Protein-chemical network analysis identified valproic acid, cyclosporine, estradiol, acetaminophen, quercetin, and carbamazepine as potential therapeutics for ALS. Furthermore, the chemical analysis identified metals and organic compounds including, arsenic, copper, nickel, and benzo(a)pyrene as possible mediators of neurodegeneration. The identification of switch genes provides insights into previously unknown biological pathways associated with ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginie Bottero
- Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases and Therapeutics, Discipline of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, North Chicago, IL, United States
| | | | | | - Judith A. Potashkin
- Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases and Therapeutics, Discipline of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, North Chicago, IL, United States
- *Correspondence: Judy A. Potashkin
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16
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Zhao Y, Qi Y, Li Q, Quan H, Liu D, Zhou H. Connexin43 inhibition attenuated dopaminergic neuronal loss in the lipopolysaccharide-induced mice model of Parkinson's disease. Neurosci Lett 2022; 771:136471. [PMID: 35065246 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2022.136471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Studies using in vitro Parkinson's disease (PD) models have found that lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced reduction of connexin 43 (Cx43) gap junction communication and elevation of hemichannel function, which could cause neurotoxicity directly and indirectly via excessive ATP and glutamate release. However, in vivo study about Cx43 expression and function, as well as the efficacy of Cx43 inhibition for neuronal survival in PD is lacking. This study aimed to unravel the role of Cx43 in PD and understand the underlying mechanisms using an in vivo PD model. Male C57BL/6 mice received intranigral injection of LPS (5 μg) and 43Gap27 (4 μg), a Cx43 inhibitor, simultaneously. Results showed that following LPS treatment, total Cx43 expression decreased by about 60%, but the relative level of phosphorylated Cx43 increased to about double that controls (all p < 0.05). The administration of 43Gap27 significantly attenuated the loss of dopaminergic neurons and restored dopamine and its metabolites levels. Moreover, 43Gap27 treatment inhibited intense microgliosis and astrogliosis in nigrostriatal system induced by LPS and also ameliorated elevated levels of inflammatory mediators. Interestingly, Cx43 inhibition also increased nerve growth factors. In conclusion, Cx43 inhibition was able to prevent LPS-mediated dopaminergic neuronal death, possibly via neuroinflammation reaction reduction and neurotrophic factors elevation. Therefore, Cx43 may be a promising therapeutic target for degenerative neurological disorders such as PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujia Zhao
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China; The Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Yuze Qi
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Qingru Li
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Huihui Quan
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Population Health Sciences, German Centre for Neurodegenerative Disease, Bonn, Germany
| | - Hui Zhou
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
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17
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Xu W, Qi Y, Gao Y, Quan H, Li Q, Zhou H, Huang J. Benzo(a)pyrene exposure in utero exacerbates Parkinson's Disease (PD)-like α-synucleinopathy in A53T human alpha-synuclein transgenic mice. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2021; 427:115658. [PMID: 34332006 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2021.115658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous work indicated that benzo[a]pyrene (B(a)P) exposure in utero might adversely affect neurodevelopment and cause Parkinson's Disease (PD)-like symptoms. However, the effect of utero exposure to B(a)P on PD-like α-synucleinopathy and the mechanism under are unclear. OBJECTIVE The A53T human alpha-synuclein (α-syn) transgenic mice (M83+/-) were used in this study to gain insights into the role of B(a)P exposure in utero in the onset of α-syn pathology and neuronal damage. METHOD Timed-pregnant M83+/- dams were exposed to 1) corn oil (vehicle) or 2) 5 mg/kg bw/d B(a)P or 3) 20 mg/kg bw/d B(a)P at gestational day 10-17 by oral gavage and then the SNCA transcription, α-syn accumulation and aggregation, neuroinflammation and nigral dopaminergic neurodegeneration of 60-day-old pups were evaluated. RESULT SNCA mRNA and α-syn protein expression in the midbrain of 60 days adult mice were found to be remarkably elevated after B(a)P exposure in utero, the protein degradation capacity was injured (in 20 mg/kg dose group) and α-syn aggregation could be observed in the substantia nigra (SN); Enhanced Iba1 expression in the midbrain and microglial activation (in 20 mg/kg dose group) in the SN were also figured out; Besides, dopaminergic neurons in the SN of 60 days adult mice were significantly decreased. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrated that B(a)P exposure in utero could exacerbate α-syn pathology and induce activation of microglia which might further lead to dopaminergic neuronal loss in the SN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weixing Xu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yuze Qi
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yanjun Gao
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Huihui Quan
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Qingru Li
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hui Zhou
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jing Huang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.
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18
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Activation of Endogenous Retrovirus, Brain Infections and Environmental Insults in Neurodegeneration and Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147263. [PMID: 34298881 PMCID: PMC8303979 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic neurodegenerative diseases are complex, and their pathogenesis is uncertain. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative brain alteration that is responsible for most dementia cases in the elderly. AD etiology is still uncertain; however, chronic neuroinflammation is a constant component of brain pathology. Infections have been associated with several neurological diseases and viruses of the Herpes family appear to be a probable cause of AD neurodegenerative alterations. Several different factors may contribute to the AD clinical progression. Exogeneous viruses or other microbes and environmental pollutants may directly induce neurodegeneration by activating brain inflammation. In this paper, we suggest that exogeneous brain insults may also activate retrotransposons and silent human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs). The initial inflammation of small brain areas induced by virus infections or other brain insults may activate HERV dis-regulation that contributes to neurodegenerative mechanisms. Chronic HERV activation in turn may cause progressive neurodegeneration that thereafter merges in cognitive impairment and dementia in genetically susceptible people. Specific treatment for exogenous end endogenous pathogens and decreasing pollutant exposure may show beneficial effect in early intervention protocol to prevent the progression of cognitive deterioration in the elderly.
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