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Zhang R, Liu F, Wang L, Wu Z, Fan L, Liu B, Shang H. Dust-phase phthalates in university dormitories in Beijing, China: pollution characteristics, potential sources, and non-dietary oral exposure. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2024; 34:3615-3633. [PMID: 38339769 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2024.2313184] [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: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to determine dust-phase phthalate levels in 112 dormitories of 14 universities during autumn and winter, investigate their potential sources, and estimate phthalate exposure via dust ingestion. Twelve phthalates were detected, among which di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and dicyclohexyl phthalate (DCHP) were the most abundant, followed by di-isobutyl phthalate (DiBP) and di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP). The median concentrations and contributions of DCHP and DEHP were the highest. The contributions of di-n-octyl phthalate and di-nonyl phthalate were higher in winter than in autumn. Potential sources included iron furniture, chemical fiber textiles, clothes, and personal care products. Medium-density fiberboard furniture is a potential sink for phthalates. In two seasons, DEHP, DCHP, DiBP, and DnBP were the main phthalates ingested by college students . The median oral exposure of ten phthalates was higher in females than in males. College students have a high risk of exposure to DEHP in dormitories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruixin Zhang
- School of Environment and Energy Engineering, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing, China
| | - Fang Liu
- School of Environment and Energy Engineering, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing, China
| | - Lixin Wang
- School of Environment and Energy Engineering, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing, China
| | - Zaixing Wu
- School of Environment and Energy Engineering, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing, China
| | - Liujia Fan
- School of Environment and Energy Engineering, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Beijing, China
| | - Bing Liu
- Beijing Boxgo Technology Co, Ltd, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Shang
- Beijing Boxgo Technology Co, Ltd, Beijing, China
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2
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Feng M, Wang J, Zhao X, Du H, Dai Y. Novel Insight into the mechanism of di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) impairing early follicle development. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 285:117043. [PMID: 39293100 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.117043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 09/05/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/20/2024]
Abstract
Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), an artificially synthetic plasticizer, is a widespread environmental endocrine disruptor, which has raised substantial concern among the public about its potential reproductive toxicity effects. Taking large amounts of DEHP disrupts the normal functioning of the ovaries, however, the toxicological effects and the mechanisms by which DEHP impairs fetal folliculogenesis remain poorly understood. Our research aims to elucidate the associations between utero exposure to DEHP and fetal folliculogenesis in offspring. In this research, we monitored the spatiotemporal and expression levels of GDF9-Hedgehog (Hh) pathway-related genes during postnatal days 3-14, confirming initially the potential associations between defects in theca cell development and the downregulation of GDF9-Hh signaling. Moreover, utilizing an ovarian organ in vitro culture model, rescue validation experiments demonstrated that the addition of recombinant GDF9 protein effectively alleviate the theca cell damage caused by DEHP, thus supporting the aforementioned associations. In conclusion, our findings validate the significant role of the GDF9-Hh pathway in the enduring reproductive toxicity resulting from prenatal exposure to DEHP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingqian Feng
- College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Jiapeng Wang
- College of Life Sciences and Technology, Inner Mongolia Normal University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Xiaorong Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Hua Du
- Department of Pathology, Basic Medical College/Affifiliated Hospital, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Yanfeng Dai
- College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China.
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Fletcher EJ, Stubblefield WS, Huff J, Santacruz-Márquez R, Laws M, Brehm E, Flaws JA. Prenatal exposure to an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture alters serum cytokine levels and inflammatory markers in the F1 mouse ovary. Toxicol Sci 2024; 201:26-37. [PMID: 38954831 PMCID: PMC11347776 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfae084] [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] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Phthalates are used as plasticizers and solvents in consumer products. Virtually 100% of the US population has measurable exposure levels to phthalates, however, the mechanisms by which prenatal exposure to phthalate mixtures affects reproductive health in the offspring remain unclear. Thus, this study tested the hypothesis that prenatal exposure to an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture promotes inflammation in F1 ovarian tissue. Pregnant CD-1 dams were dosed orally with vehicle control (corn oil) or phthalate mixture (20 μg/kg/d, 200 μg/kg/d, 200 mg/kg/d, 500 mg/kg/d). Pregnant dams delivered pups naturally and ovaries and sera from the F1 females were collected at postnatal day (PND) 21, PND 60, 3 mo, and 6 mo. Sera were used to measure levels of C-reactive protein (CRP). Ovaries and sera were used for cytokine array analysis. RNA was isolated from F1 ovaries and used to quantify expression of selected cytokine genes. Prenatal exposure to the mixture significantly increased the levels of CRP at 200 µg/kg/d on PND 21 compared with controls. The mixture altered 6 immune factors in sera at PND 21 and 33 immune factors in the ovary and sera at 6 mo compared with controls. The mixture increased ovarian expression of cytokines at PND 21 and decreased ovarian expression of cytokines at 6 mo compared with controls. These data suggest that prenatal exposure to a phthalate mixture interferes with the immune response in F1 female mice long after initial exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Endia J Fletcher
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, United States
| | - Winter S Stubblefield
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, United States
| | - Justin Huff
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, United States
| | - Ramsés Santacruz-Márquez
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, United States
| | - Mary Laws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, United States
| | - Emily Brehm
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, United States
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, United States
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Tian X, Qin B, Yang L, Li H, Zhou W. Association of phthalate exposure with reproductive outcomes among infertile couples undergoing in vitro fertilization: A systematic review. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 252:118825. [PMID: 38609072 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118825] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Human fertility is impacted by changes in lifestyle and environmental deterioration. To increase human fertility, assisted reproductive technology (ART) has been extensively used around the globe. As early as 2009, the Endocrine Society released its first scientific statement on the potential adverse effects of environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) on human health and disease development. Chemicals known as phthalates, frequently employed as plasticizers and additives, are common EDCs. Numerous studies have shown that phthalate metabolites in vivo exert estrogen-like or anti-androgenic effects in both humans and animals. They are associated with the progression of a range of diseases, most notably interference with the reproductive process, damage to the placenta, and the initiation of chronic diseases in adulthood. Phthalates are ingested by infertile couples in a variety of ways, including household products, diet, medical treatment, etc. Exposure to phthalates may exacerbate their infertility or poor ART outcomes, however, the available data on phthalate exposure and ART pregnancy outcomes are sparse and contradictory. Therefore, this review conducted a systematic evaluation of 16 papers related to phthalate exposure and ART pregnancy outcomes, to provide more aggregated results, and deepen our understanding of reproductive outcomes in infertile populations with phthalate exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangming Tian
- Medical Center for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Boyi Qin
- Medical Center for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Yang
- Medical Center for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Huanhuan Li
- Medical Center for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenhui Zhou
- Medical Center for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
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Qian T, Zhang J, Liu J, Wu J, Ruan Z, Shi W, Fan Y, Ye D, Fang X. Associations of phthalates with accelerated aging and the mitigating role of physical activity. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 278:116438. [PMID: 38744065 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116438] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Phthalates are positioned as potential risk factors for health-related diseases. However, the effects of exposure to phthalates on accelerated aging and the potential modifications of physical activity remain unclear. A total of 2317 participants containing complete study-related information from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007-2010 were included in the current study. We used two indicators, the Klemera-Doubal method biological age acceleration (BioAgeAccel) and phenotypic age acceleration (PhenoAgeAccel), to assess the accelerated aging status of the subjects. Multiple linear regression (single pollutant models), weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression, Quantile g-computation, and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) models were utilized to explore the associations between urinary phthalate metabolites and accelerated aging. Three groups of physical activity with different intensities were used to evaluate the modifying effects on the above associations. Results indicated that most phthalate metabolites were significantly associated with BioAgeAccel and PhenoAgeAccel, with effect values (β) ranging from 0.16 to 0.21 and 0.16-0.37, respectively. The WQS indices were positively associated with BioAgeAccel (0.33, 95% CI: 0.11, 0.54) and PhenoAgeAccel (0.50, 95% CI: 0.19, 0.82). Quantile g-computation indicated that phthalate mixtures were associated with accelerated aging, with effect values of 0.15 (95% CI: 0.02, 0.28) for BioAgeAccel and 0.39 (95% CI: 0.12, 0.67) for PhenoAgeAccel respectively. The BKMR models indicated a significant positive association between the concentrations of urinary phthalate mixtures with the two indicators. In addition, we found that most phthalate metabolites showed the strongest effects on accelerated aging in the no physical activity group and that the effects decreased gradually with increasing levels of physical activity (P < 0.05 for trend). Similar results were also observed in the mixed exposure models (WQS and Quantile g-computation). This study indicates that phthalates exposure is associated with accelerated aging, while physical activity may be a crucial barrier against phthalates exposure-related aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Qian
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China; Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- School of Public Health, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Hefei, Anhui 231131, China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Prevention and Control, Occupational Health and Safety, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Hefei, Anhui 231131, China; Anhui Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Hefei, Anhui 231131, China; Joint Research Center of Occupational Medicine and Health, Institute of Grand Health, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Hefei, Anhui 231131, China
| | - Jintao Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China; Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Jingwei Wu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China; Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Zhaohui Ruan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China; Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Wenru Shi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China; Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Yinguang Fan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China; Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China.
| | - Dongqing Ye
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China; School of Public Health, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Hefei, Anhui 231131, China; Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Dust Prevention and Control, Occupational Health and Safety, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Hefei, Anhui 231131, China; Anhui Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Hefei, Anhui 231131, China; Joint Research Center of Occupational Medicine and Health, Institute of Grand Health, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Hefei, Anhui 231131, China.
| | - Xinyu Fang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China; Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China.
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Rodríguez-Carrillo A, Remy S, Koppen G, Wauters N, Mustieles V, Desalegn A, Iszatt N, den Hond E, Verheyen VJ, Fábelová L, Murinova LP, Pedraza-Díaz S, Esteban M, Poyatos RM, Govarts E, van Nuijs ALN, Covaci A, Schoeters G, Olea N, Fernández MF. Urinary phthalate/DINCH metabolites associations with kisspeptin and reproductive hormones in teenagers: A cross-sectional study from the HBM4EU aligned studies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 929:172426. [PMID: 38631641 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172426] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to phthalate/DINCH metabolites can induce human reproductive toxicity, however, their endocrine-disrupting mechanisms are not fully elucidated. OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between concentrations of phthalate/DINCH metabolites, serum kisspeptin, and reproductive hormones among European teenagers from three of the HBM4EU Aligned Studies. METHODS In 733 Belgian (FLEHS IV study), Slovak (PCB cohort follow-up), and Spanish (BEA study) teenagers, ten phthalate and two DINCH metabolites were measured in urine by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Serum kisspeptin (kiss54) protein, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), total testosterone (TT), estradiol (E2), and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels were measured by immunosorbent assays. Free Androgen Index (FAI) was calculated as a proxy of free testosterone. Adjusted sex-stratified linear regression models for individual studies, mixed effect models (LME) accounting for random effects for pooled studies, and g-computation and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) models for the phthalate/DINCH mixture were performed. RESULTS The LME suggested that each IQR increase in ln-transformed levels of several phthalates was associated with lower kisspeptin [MnBP: %change (95%CI): -2.8 (-4.2;-0.4); MEHP: -1.4 (-3.4,0.2)] and higher FSH [∑DINP: 11.8 (-0.6;25.1)] levels in females from pooled studies. G-computation showed that the phthalates/DINCH mixture was associated with lower kisspeptin [-4.28 (-8.07;-0.34)] and higher FSH [22.13 (0.5;48.4)] also in females; BKMR showed similar although non-significant pattern. In males, higher phthalates metabolites [MEHP: -12.22 (-21.09;-1.18); oxo-MEHP: -12.73 (-22.34;-1.93)] were associated with lower TT and FAI, although higher DINCH [OH-MINCH: 16.31 (6.23;27.35), cx-MINCH: 16.80 (7.03;27.46), ∑DINCH: 17.37 (7.26;29.74)] were associated with higher TT levels. No mixture associations were found in males. CONCLUSION We observed sex-specific associations between urinary concentrations of phthalate/DINCH metabolites and the panel of selected effect biomarkers (kisspeptin and reproductive hormones). This suggests that exposure to phthalates would be associated with changes in kisspeptin levels, which would affect the HPG axis and thus influence reproductive health. However, further research is needed, particularly for phthalate replacements such as DINCH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Rodríguez-Carrillo
- VITO Health, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), 2400 Mol, Belgium; Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein, 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Sylvie Remy
- VITO Health, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Gudrun Koppen
- VITO Health, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Natasha Wauters
- VITO Health, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Vicente Mustieles
- Biomedical Research Center & School of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria de Granada (ibs.GRANADA), 18012 Granada, Spain; Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Spain
| | - Anteneh Desalegn
- Division of Climate and Environmental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Norway
| | - Nina Iszatt
- Division of Climate and Environmental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Norway
| | | | - Veerle J Verheyen
- VITO Health, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Lucia Fábelová
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Public Health, Slovak Medical University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Lubica Palkovicova Murinova
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Public Health, Slovak Medical University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Susana Pedraza-Díaz
- National Centre for Environmental Health, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Esteban
- National Centre for Environmental Health, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafael M Poyatos
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Laboratorios, Hospital Universitario Clínico San Cecilio, Granada, Spain
| | - Eva Govarts
- VITO Health, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | | | - Adrian Covaci
- Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein, 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Greet Schoeters
- Department of Radiology and Physical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Nicolás Olea
- Biomedical Research Center & School of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; Department of Radiology and Physical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria de Granada (ibs.GRANADA), 18012 Granada, Spain; Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Spain
| | - Mariana F Fernández
- Biomedical Research Center & School of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; Department of Radiology and Physical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria de Granada (ibs.GRANADA), 18012 Granada, Spain; Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Spain.
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Lemos LS, Di Perna AC, Steinman KJ, Robeck TR, Quinete NS. Assessment of Phthalate Esters and Physiological Biomarkers in Bottlenose Dolphins ( Tursiops truncatus) and Killer Whales ( Orcinus orca). Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1488. [PMID: 38791705 PMCID: PMC11117373 DOI: 10.3390/ani14101488] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
There is growing concern about the potential adverse health effects of phthalates (PAEs) on human health and the environment due to their extensive use as plasticizers and additives in commercial and consumer products. In this study, we assessed PAE concentrations in serum samples from aquarium-based delphinids (Tursiops truncatus, n = 36; Orcinus orca, n = 42) from California, Florida, and Texas, USA. To better understand the physiological effects of phthalates on delphinids, we also explored potential correlations between phthalates and the biomarkers aldosterone, cortisol, corticosterone, hydrogen peroxide, and malondialdehyde while accounting for sex, age, and reproductive stage. All PAEs were detected in at least one of the individuals. ΣPAE ranges were 5.995-2743 ng·mL-1 in bottlenose dolphins and 5.372-88,675 ng·mL-1 in killer whales. Both species displayed higher mean concentrations of DEP and DEHP. PAEs were detected in newborn delphinids, indicating transference via placenta and/or lactation. Linear mixed model results indicated significant correlations between aldosterone, month, location, status, and ΣPAEs in killer whales, suggesting that aldosterone concentrations are likely affected by the cumulative effects of these variables. This study expands on the knowledge of delphinid physiological responses to PAEs and may influence management and conservation decisions on contamination discharge regulations near these species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila S. Lemos
- Institute of Environment, Florida International University, North Miami, FL 33181, USA
- Emerging Contaminants of Concern Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, College of Arts, Sciences, and Education, Florida International University, North Miami, FL 33181, USA;
| | - Amanda C. Di Perna
- Emerging Contaminants of Concern Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, College of Arts, Sciences, and Education, Florida International University, North Miami, FL 33181, USA;
| | - Karen J. Steinman
- SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Species Preservation Laboratory, United Parks and Resorts, San Diego, CA 92109, USA; (K.J.S.); (T.R.R.)
| | - Todd R. Robeck
- SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Species Preservation Laboratory, United Parks and Resorts, San Diego, CA 92109, USA; (K.J.S.); (T.R.R.)
- United Parks and Resorts, 7007 Sea Harbor Drive, Orlando, FL 32821, USA
| | - Natalia S. Quinete
- Institute of Environment, Florida International University, North Miami, FL 33181, USA
- Emerging Contaminants of Concern Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, College of Arts, Sciences, and Education, Florida International University, North Miami, FL 33181, USA;
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8
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Gokyer D, Laws MJ, Kleinhans A, Riley JK, Flaws JA, Babayev E. Phthalates are detected in the follicular fluid of adolescents and oocyte donors with associated changes in the cumulus cell transcriptome. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.04.588126. [PMID: 38645121 PMCID: PMC11030231 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.04.588126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Purpose To investigate follicular fluid (FF) phthalate levels in adolescents undergoing fertility preservation compared to oocyte donors and explore its association with ovarian reserve and cumulus cell gene expression. Methods 20 Adolescents (16.7 ± 0.6 years old) and 24 oocyte donors (26.2 ± 0.4 years old) undergoing fertility preservation were included in the study. Patient demographics, ovarian stimulation and oocyte retrieval outcomes were analyzed for each group. FF levels of 9 phthalate metabolites were assessed individually and as molar sums representative of common compounds (all phthalates: ΣPhthalates; DEHP: ΣDEHP), exposure sources (plastics: ΣPlastic; personal care products: ΣPCP), and modes of action (anti-androgenic: ΣAA) and compared between the two groups. Results Follicular fluid ΣPlastic and ΣPCP levels were significantly higher in adolescents compared to oocyte donors (p<0.05). Follicular fluid ΣDEHP, ΣPlastic, ΣPCP, ΣAA, and ΣPhthalates levels were positively associated with antral follicle count (AFC) (p<0.05) in oocyte donors when adjusted for age, BMI, and race/ethnicity. RNA-seq analysis revealed 248 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in cumulus cells of adolescents within the top quartile (n=4) of FF ΣPhthalates levels compared to the adolescents within the bottom half (n=9). Genes enriched in pathways involved in cell motility and development were significantly downregulated. Conclusion Adolescents undergoing fertility preservation cycles demonstrate higher levels of phthalate metabolites in their follicular fluid compared to oocyte donors. Phthalate metabolite levels in FF are associated with higher AFC levels in oocyte donors. Higher phthalate levels in FF are associated with alterations in the cumulus cells transcriptome in adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilan Gokyer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Mary J. Laws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL
| | - Anna Kleinhans
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern Medicine Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Joan K. Riley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern Medicine Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Jodi A. Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL
| | - Elnur Babayev
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern Medicine Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, Chicago, IL
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9
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Martínez-Ibarra A, Cerbón M, Martínez-Razo LD, Morales-Pacheco M, Torre-Villalvazo I, Kawa S, Rodríguez-Dorantes M. Impact of DEHP exposure on female reproductive health: Insights into uterine effects. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 107:104391. [PMID: 38367918 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2024.104391] [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: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Several endocrine disrupting compounds released from plastics, including polyfluoroalkyl substances, bisphenols, flame retardants, phthalates and others, are of great concern to human health due to their high toxicity. This review discusses the effects of di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), the most common member of the phthalate family, on female reproduction. In vitro and in vivo studies link DEHP exposure to impaired hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian s (HPO) axis function, alteration of steroid-hormone levels and dysregulation of their receptors, and changes in uterine morphophysiology. In addition, high urinary DEPH levels have been associated with several reproductive disorders in women, including endometriosis, fibromyoma, fetal growth restriction and pregnancy loss. These data suggest that DEHP may be involved in the pathophysiology of various female reproductive diseases. Therefore, exposure to these compounds should be considered a concern in clinician surveillance practices for women at reproductive age and should be regulated to protect their health and that of their progeny.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marco Cerbón
- Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico.
| | | | - Miguel Morales-Pacheco
- Laboratorio de Oncogenómica, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica, Ciudad de México 14610, Mexico
| | - Iván Torre-Villalvazo
- Departamento de Fisiología de la Nutrición, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Simón Kawa
- Dirección General del Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea González, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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10
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Zhang X, Xu C, Li Y, Chen Z, Xu F, Zhang H, Ding L, Lin Y, Zhao N. Association between phthalate metabolite mixture in neonatal cord serum and birth outcomes. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 919:170614. [PMID: 38316308 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170614] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to phthalates (PAEs) is ubiquitous among Chinese neonates. PAEs entering the body will be transformed to various hydrolyzed and oxidated PAE metabolites (mPAEs). PAEs and mPAEs exposure may lead to adverse birth outcomes through disruption of multiple hormone signaling pathways, induction of oxidative stress, and alterations in intracellular signaling processes. In this study, the concentrations of 11 mPAEs in 318 umbilical cord serum samples from neonates in Jinan were quantified with HPLC-ESI-MS. Multiple linear regression, Bayesian kernel machine regression, and quantile g-computation models were utilized to investigate the effects of both individual mPAE and mPAE mixture on birth outcomes. Stratified analysis was performed to explore whether these effects were gender-specific. mPAE mixture was negatively associated with birth length (BL) z-score, birth weight (BW) z-score, head circumference (HC) z-score, and ponderal index (PI). Mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) manifested negative associations with BL(z-score), BW(z-score), HC(z-score), and PI, whereas mono(2-carboxymethylhexyl) phthalate (MCMHP) was negatively associated with BW(z-score) and PI within the mPAE mixture. Stratified analysis revealed that the negative associations between mPAE mixture and four birth outcomes were attenuated in female infants, while the positive impact of mono(2-ethyl-5carboxypentyl) phthalate (MECPP) on BL(z-score) and BW(z-score) could be detected only in females. In summary, our findings suggest that prenatal exposure to phthalates may be associated with intrauterine growth restriction, and these effects vary according to the gender of the infant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaozhen Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Caihong Xu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Yahui Li
- Jinan Digital Application Center of Ecology and Environment (Jinan Grid Supervision Center of Ecological and Environmental Protection), Jinan 250102, China
| | - Zhongkai Chen
- Jinan Digital Application Center of Ecology and Environment (Jinan Grid Supervision Center of Ecological and Environmental Protection), Jinan 250102, China
| | - Fei Xu
- School of Environmental Research Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Haoyu Zhang
- School of Environmental Research Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Lei Ding
- School of Environmental Research Institute, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Yongfeng Lin
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Nan Zhao
- School of Environmental and Material Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, Shandong, China.
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11
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Shi B, He E, Chang K, Xu G, Meng Q, Xu H, Chen Z, Wang X, Jia M, Sun W, Zhao W, Zhao H, Dong L, Cui H. Genistein prevents the production of hypospadias induced by Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate through androgen signaling and antioxidant response in rats. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 466:133537. [PMID: 38244450 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133537] [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: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Environmental estrogen exposure has increased dramatically over the past 50 years. In particular, prenatal exposure to estrogen causes many congenital diseases, among which reproductive system development disorders are extremely serious. In this study, the molecular mechanism of hypospadias and the therapeutic effect of genistein (GEN) were investigated through in vivo models prepared by Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) exposure between 12 and 19 days of gestation. With increased DEHP concentrations, the incidence of hypospadias increased gradually. DEHP inhibited the key enzymes involved in steroid synthesis, resulting in decreasing testosterone synthesis. At the same time, DEHP increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and produced inflammatory factors via NADPH oxidase-1 (NOX1) and NADPH oxidase-4 (NOX4) pathways. It also inhibited Steroid 5 α Reductase 2 (Srd5α2) and decreased dihydrotestosterone (DHT) synthesis. Additionally, DEHP inhibited the androgen receptor (AR), resulting in reduced DHT binding to the AR that ultimately retarded the development of the external reproductive system. GEN, a phytoestrogen, competes with DEHP for binding to estrogen receptor β (ERβ). This competition, along with GEN's antiestrogen and antioxidant properties, could potentially reverse impairments. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the role of phytoestrogens in alleviating environmental estrogen-induced congenital diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bowen Shi
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China; Tianjin Children's Hospital (Tianjin University Children's Hospital), Tianjin 300134, China
| | - Enyang He
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Kaili Chang
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Guodong Xu
- Tianjin Children's Hospital (Tianjin University Children's Hospital), Tianjin 300134, China
| | - Qingya Meng
- Tianjin Children's Hospital (Tianjin University Children's Hospital), Tianjin 300134, China
| | - Haihua Xu
- Tianjin Children's Hospital (Tianjin University Children's Hospital), Tianjin 300134, China
| | - Ziying Chen
- Tianjin Children's Hospital (Tianjin University Children's Hospital), Tianjin 300134, China
| | - Xiaojia Wang
- Tianjin Children's Hospital (Tianjin University Children's Hospital), Tianjin 300134, China
| | - Miao Jia
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Wenjing Sun
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Hailan Zhao
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Liang Dong
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China; Tianjin Children's Hospital (Tianjin University Children's Hospital), Tianjin 300134, China.
| | - Hualei Cui
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China; Tianjin Children's Hospital (Tianjin University Children's Hospital), Tianjin 300134, China.
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12
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Santacruz-Márquez R, Safar AM, Laws MJ, Meling DD, Liu Z, Kumar TR, Nowak RA, Raetzman LT, Flaws JA. The effects of short-term and long-term phthalate exposures on ovarian follicle growth dynamics and hormone levels in female mice†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:198-210. [PMID: 37812459 PMCID: PMC10790346 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad137] [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] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate and diisononyl phthalate are widely used as plasticizers in polyvinyl chloride products. Short-term exposures to phthalates affect hormone levels, ovarian follicle populations, and ovarian gene expression. However, limited data exist regarding the effects of long-term exposure to phthalates on reproductive functions. Thus, this study tested the hypothesis that short-term and long-term exposure to di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate or diisononyl phthalate disrupts follicle dynamics, ovarian and pituitary gene expression, and hormone levels in female mice. Adult CD-1 female mice were exposed to vehicle, di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, or diisononyl phthalate (0.15 ppm, 1.5 ppm, or 1500 ppm) via the chow for 1 or 6 months. Short-term exposure to di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (0.15 ppm) and diisononyl phthalate (1.5 ppm) decreased serum follicle-stimulating hormone levels compared to control. Long-term exposure to di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate and diisononyl phthalate (1500 ppm) increased the percentage of primordial follicles and decreased the percentages of preantral and antral follicles compared to control. Both phthalates increased follicle-stimulating hormone levels (di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate at 1500 ppm; diisononyl phthalate at 1.5 ppm) and decreased luteinizing hormone levels (di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate at 0.15 and 1.5 ppm; diisononyl phthalate at 1.5 ppm and 1500 ppm) compared to control. Furthermore, both phthalates altered the expression of pituitary gonadotropin subunit genes (Cga, Fshb, and Lhb) and a transcription factor (Nr5a1) that regulates gonadotropin synthesis. These data indicate that long-term exposure to di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate and diisononyl phthalate alters follicle growth dynamics in the ovary and the expression of gonadotropin subunit genes in the pituitary and consequently luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramsés Santacruz-Márquez
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Adira M Safar
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Mary J Laws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Daryl D Meling
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Zhenghui Liu
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - T Rajendra Kumar
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Romana A Nowak
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Lori T Raetzman
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
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13
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Li J, Deng T, Rao W, Liao H, Wang Y, Guo N, Du Y, Guo Q, Zeng Q, Liu C, Li Y. Phthalate metabolites in urine and follicular fluid in relation to menstrual cycle characteristics in women seeking fertility assistance. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 183:108362. [PMID: 38064925 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.108362] [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: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phthalates have been shown to disrupt the estrous cycle in animal studies. However, epidemiological research investigating their associations with menstrual cycle characteristics is limited. OBJECTIVE To explore the relationships between phthalate exposure and menstrual cycle characteristics among women seeking fertility assistance. METHODS We determined the levels of eight phthalate metabolites in both follicular fluid (FF) and urine specimens collected from 441 women in the Tongji Reproductive and Environmental (TREE) cohort, using high-performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry. Information about menstrual cycle parameters was obtained through a questionnaire. The impacts of individual and joint exposure to phthalates on menstrual cycle characteristics were assessed using multivariable linear regression, Poisson regression, and quantile g-computation approaches. RESULTS After adjusting for relevant covariates, we found that per log10-unit increase in mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) level in urine specimens was associated with a decrease of 0.20 days (95 % CI: -0.37, -0.03) in bleeding duration. We also observed that mono(2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl) phthalate (MECPP) and the sum of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) metabolites (∑DEHP) concentrations in FF samples were inversely related to cycle length [β = -1.92 (95 % CI: -3.10, -0.75) and -1.87 (95 % CI: -3.56, -0.19), respectively]. However, we generally observed null associations between phthalate metabolites and irregular cycle, dysmenorrhea, hypomenorrhea, or cycle length variation. Furthermore, we also found that phthalate metabolite mixtures in FF and urine were generally unrelated to menstrual cycle characteristics. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that some DEHP metabolites in FF and urine are inversely associated with menstrual cycle length and menstrual bleeding duration in women attending a fertility center.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Taoran Deng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Wentao Rao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Hongmei Liao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Yi Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Na Guo
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Yaoyao Du
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Qingchun Guo
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, PR China
| | - Qiang Zeng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, PR China
| | - Chong Liu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, PR China.
| | - Yufeng Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, PR China.
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14
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Su HY, Lai CS, Lee KH, Chiang YW, Chen CC, Hsu PC. Prenatal exposure to low-dose di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) induces potentially hepatic lipid accumulation and fibrotic changes in rat offspring. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 269:115776. [PMID: 38056127 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a plasticizer that is widely used to enhance the flexibility and durability of various products. As an endocrine disruptor, DEHP can interfere with normal hormonal functions, posing substantial health risks to organisms. Given the critical role of the liver in DEHP metabolism, we investigated potential liver damage in offspring induced by prenatal exposure to low doses of DEHP in Sprague Dawley rats. Pregnant rats were divided into three groups and administered 20 or 200 μg/kg/day of DEHP or corn oil vehicle control via oral gavage from gestation days 0-20. Male rat offspring were euthanized on postnatal day 84, and blood and liver specimens were collected for analysis. We observed fibrotic changes in the livers of the exposed groups, accompanied by the proliferation and activation of hepatic stellate cells and upregulated expression of TGF-B and collagen 1A1. Additionally, an inflammatory response, characterized by increased macrophage infiltration and elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, was evident. Third, hepatic and serum triglyceride and serum cholesterol were notably increased, along with upregulated expression of lipid metabolism-related proteins, such as sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c, acetyl-CoA carboxylase, fatty acid synthase, and diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 1, particularly in the low-dose group. These results suggest that prenatal exposure to DEHP can disrupt lipid metabolism, resulting in hepatic lipid accumulation in the offspring. This exposure may also induce an inflammatory response that contributes to the development of liver fibrosis. Thus, even at relatively low doses, such exposure can precipitate latent liver damage in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hung-Yuan Su
- Department of Safety, Health and Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan; School of Chinese Medicine for Post Baccalaureate, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan; Department of Emergency Medicine, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Shu Lai
- Department of Seafood Science, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Hsin Lee
- Department of Emergency Medicine, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan; School of Medicine, College of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Wei Chiang
- Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 112, Taiwan; Department of Biology and Anatomy, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chi Chen
- School of Chinese Medicine for Post Baccalaureate, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan; School of Medicine, College of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan; Department of Physical Therapy, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan; Department of Emergency Medicine, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 824, Taiwan
| | - Ping-Chi Hsu
- Department of Safety, Health and Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan; Department of Public Health, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan.
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15
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Shukla R, Arshee MR, Laws MJ, Flaws JA, Bagchi MK, Wagoner Johnson AJ, Bagchi IC. Chronic exposure of mice to phthalates enhances TGF beta signaling and promotes uterine fibrosis. Reprod Toxicol 2023; 122:108491. [PMID: 37863342 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108491] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Phthalates are synthetic chemicals widely used as plasticizers and stabilizers in various consumer products. Because of the extensive production and use of phthalates, humans are exposed to these chemicals daily. While most studies focus on a single phthalate, humans are exposed to a mixture of phthalates on a regular basis. The impact of continuous exposure to phthalate mixture on uterus is largely unknown. Thus, we conducted studies in which adult female mice were exposed for 6 months to 0.15 ppm and 1.5 ppm of a mixture of phthalates via chow ad libitum. Our studies revealed that consumption of phthalate mixture at 0.15 ppm and 1.5 ppm for 6 months led to a significant increase in the thickness of the myometrial layer compared to control. Further investigation employing RNA-sequencing revealed an elevated transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling in the uteri of mice fed with phthalate mixture. TGF-β signaling is associated with the development of fibrosis, a consequence of excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix components, such as collagen fibers in a tissue. Consistent with this observation, we found a higher incidence of collagen deposition in uteri of mice exposed to phthalate mixture compared to unexposed controls. Second Harmonic Generation (SHG) imaging showed disorganized collagen fibers and nanoindentation indicated a local increase in uterine stiffness upon exposure to phthalate mixture. Collectively, our results demonstrate that chronic exposure to phthalate mixture can have adverse effects on uterine homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritwik Shukla
- Departments of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Mahmuda R Arshee
- Mechanical Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Mary J Laws
- Departments of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Departments of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carle R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Milan K Bagchi
- Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carle R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carle Illinois College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Amy J Wagoner Johnson
- Mechanical Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carle R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carle Illinois College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Indrani C Bagchi
- Departments of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carle R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Carle Illinois College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
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16
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Weng X, Zhu Q, Liao C, Jiang G. Cumulative Exposure to Phthalates and Their Alternatives and Associated Female Reproductive Health: Body Burdens, Adverse Outcomes, and Underlying Mechanisms. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023. [PMID: 37196176 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c00823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The global birth rate has recently shown a decreasing trend, and exposure to environmental pollutants has been identified as a potential factor affecting female reproductive health. Phthalates have been widely used as plasticizers in plastic containers, children's toys, and medical devices, and their ubiquitous presence and endocrine-disrupting potential have already raised particular concerns. Phthalate exposure has been linked to various adverse health outcomes, including reproductive diseases. Given that many phthalates are gradually being banned, a growing number of phthalate alternatives are becoming popular, such as di(isononyl) cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylate (DINCH), di(2-ethylhexyl) adipate (DEHA), and di(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate (DEHTP), and they are beginning to have a wide range of environmental effects. Studies have shown that many phthalate alternatives may disrupt female reproductive function by altering the estrous cycle, causing ovarian follicular atresia, and prolonging the gestational cycle, which raises growing concerns about their potential health risks. Herein, we summarize the effects of phthalates and their common alternatives in different female models, the exposure levels that influence the reproductive system, and the effects on female reproductive impairment, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and offspring development. Additionally, we scrutinize the effects of phthalates and their alternatives on hormone signaling, oxidative stress, and intracellular signaling to explore the underlying mechanisms of action on female reproductive health, because these chemicals may affect reproductive tissues directly or indirectly through endocrine disruption. Given the declining global trends of female reproductive capacity and the potential ability of phthalates and their alternatives to negatively impact female reproductive health, a more comprehensive study is needed to understand their effects on the human body and their underlying mechanisms. These findings may have an important role in improving female reproductive health and in turn decreasing the number of complications during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueyu Weng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Qingqing Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chunyang Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guibin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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17
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Levine L, Hall JE. Does the environment affect menopause? A review of the effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals on menopause. Climacteric 2023; 26:206-215. [PMID: 37011670 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2023.2173570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals are widely distributed in our environment. Humans are exposed to these compounds not only through their occupations, but also through dietary consumption and exposure to contaminated water, personal care products and textiles. Chemicals that are persistent in the body and in our environment include dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls. Non-persistent chemicals including bisphenol A, phthalates and parabens are equally as important because they are ubiquitous in our environment. Heavy metals, including lead and cadmium, can also have endocrine disrupting properties. Although difficult to study due to their variety of sources of exposures and mechanisms of action, these chemicals have been associated with early menopause, increased frequency of vasomotor symptoms, altered steroid hormone levels and markers of diminished ovarian reserve. Understanding the impacts of these exposures is important given the potential for epigenetic modification, which can alter gene function and result in multi-generational effects. This review summarizes findings in humans and animals or cell-based models from the past decade of research. Continued research is needed to assess the effects of mixtures of chemicals, chronic exposures and new compounds that are continuously being developed as replacements for toxic chemicals that are being phased out.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Levine
- Clinical Research Branch, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - J E Hall
- Clinical Research Branch, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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Sun J, Gan L, Lv S, Wang T, Dai C, Sun J. Exposure to Di-(2-Ethylhexyl) phthalate drives ovarian dysfunction by inducing granulosa cell pyroptosis via the SLC39A5/NF-κB/NLRP3 axis. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 252:114625. [PMID: 36774801 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) have been reported to affect populations by disrupting the human endocrine system. Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is an EDC that is present in various consumer products. Exposure to DEHP could contribute to reproductive system dysfunction, with subsequent adverse female reproductive outcomes. Granulosa cells (GCs) play essential roles in ovarian function and fertility. To further reveal the underlying mechanism by which DEHP impairs female fertility and affects the normal function of GCs, in vivo and in vitro experiments were performed. Transcript sequencing was used to identify genes that were differentially expressed in GCs after DEHP treatment. SLC39A5 was shown to be overexpressed in the DEHP group compared to the normal control group. DEHP treatment and overexpression of SLC39A5 activated NF-κB-related factors, followed by an increase in the transcript expression level of NLRP3. NLRP3 inflammasomes play crucial roles in pyroptosis by acting as sensors. Pyroptosis is a type of inflammation-related cell death associated with various diseases, including ovarian cancer and polycystic ovary syndrome. Activation of NF-κB contributed to the upregulation of pyroptosis in GCs, while pyroptosis factors were downregulated after the inhibition of NF-κB with JSH-23. The same phenomenon was also observed in a mouse model in which DEHP-treated mice had higher expression levels of NF-κB and pyroptosis markers in GCs. Moreover, this phenomenon could be partially reversed by the NF-κB inhibitor JSH-23. DEHP treatment also disrupted the normal expression of ovarian function-related genes and inhibited the proliferation of GCs. Reproductive system impairment was observed in mice exposed to DEHP. DEHP-treated mice had a lower body weight, smaller reproductive organs, fewer healthy follicles, and diminished ovarian reserve. Thus, DEHP contributes to ovarian dysfunction by inducing pyroptosis via the SLC39A5/NF-κB/NLRP3 axis in GCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiani Sun
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Lei Gan
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315010, China
| | - Siji Lv
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Chaoqun Dai
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Jing Sun
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
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19
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Guerra MT, Erthal RP, Punhagui-Umbelino APF, Trinque CM, Torres de Bari MA, Nunes TDM, Costa WF, Cleto PH, Fernandes GSA. Reproductive toxicity of maternal exposure to di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate and butyl paraben (alone or in association) on both male and female Wistar offspring. J Appl Toxicol 2023; 43:242-261. [PMID: 35962557 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Parabens and phthalates are commonly found as contaminants in human fluids and are able to provoke reproductive toxicity, being considered endocrine disruptors. To evaluate the effects of phthalate and paraben, alone or in combination, on reproductive development of the offspring, female pregnant Wistar rats were allocated in six experimental groups: Three control groups (gavage [CG], subcutaneous [CS], and gavage + subcutaneous) received corn oil as vehicle, and the remaining groups were exposed to di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) (500 mg/kg, gavage), butyl paraben (BP) (100 mg/kg, subcutaneously), or MIX (DEHP + BP), from Gestational Day 12 until Postnatal Day (PND) 21. The following parameters were assessed on the offspring: anogenital distance and weight at PND 1, nipple counting at PND 13, puberty onset, estrous cycle, weights of reproductive and detoxifying organs, histological evaluation of reproductive organs, and sperm evaluations (counts, morphology, and motility). Female pups from MIX group presented reduced body weight at PND 1, lower AGD, and decreased endometrium thickness. Male animals showed decreased body weight at PND 1 and lower number of Sertoli cells on DEHP and MIX groups, MIX group revealed increase of abnormal seminiferous tubules, DEHP animals presented delayed preputial separation and higher percentage of immotile sperms, and BP males presented diminished number of Leydig cells. In conclusion, the male offspring was more susceptible to DEHP toxicity; even when mixed to paraben, the main negative effects observed seem to be due to antiandrogenic phthalate action. On the other hand, DEHP seems to be necessary to improve the effects of BP on reducing estrogen-dependent and increasing androgen-dependent events.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rafaela Pires Erthal
- Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina-UEL, Londrina, Brazil
| | | | - Camila Moreira Trinque
- Department of General Biology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina-UEL, Londrina, Brazil
| | | | | | - Wagner Ferrari Costa
- Department of General Biology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina-UEL, Londrina, Brazil
| | - Pedro Horácio Cleto
- Department of General Biology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina-UEL, Londrina, Brazil
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20
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Cinzori ME, Pacyga DC, Babayev E, Duncan FE, Li Z, Williams PL, Flaws JA, Strakovsky RS. Ovarian volume partially explains associations of phthalate biomarkers with anti-Müllerian hormone and estradiol in midlife women. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 172:107771. [PMID: 36724714 PMCID: PMC10012419 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.107771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Women are ubiquitously exposed to endocrine disruptors, including phthalates. Ovarian follicles undergoing folliculogenesis (indirectly measured by ovarian volume) produce anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and estradiol (E2). We evaluated associations of phthalates with ovarian volume to assess whether this explained prior positive associations of phthalates with AMH and E2. METHODS Women ages 45-54 years (n = 614) had transvaginal ultrasounds of right/left ovaries to calculate mean ovarian volume. Women provided up-to-four urine and blood samples for quantifying AMH (first serum sample), E2 (all serum samples), and nine phthalate metabolites (from pooled urine, representing six parent phthalates). Multivariable linear or logistic regression models (for individual phthalate biomarkers), as well as weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression (for mixture analyses) evaluated associations of phthalate biomarkers with ovarian volume. Using cross-sectional mediation analysis, we assessed whether associations of phthalates with ovarian volume partially explained those of phthalates with AMH or E2. RESULTS Most women were non-Hispanic White (68%) and pre-menopausal (67%) with higher urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations than U.S. women. In single-pollutant models, 10% increases in mono(3-carboxypropyl) phthalate (MCPP) and monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP) were associated with 0.44% (95% CI: -0.02%, 0.91%) and 0.62% (95% CI: 0.02%, 1.23%) larger ovarian volumes, respectively. As a cumulative mixture, 10% increases in the phthalate mixture were associated with 2.89% larger ovarian volume (95%CI: 0.27, 5.59) with MCPP (35%) and MBzP (41%) identified as major contributors. Higher ovarian volume due to a 10% increase in MBzP (indirect effect OR: 1.004; 95% CI: 1.00, 1.01) explained 16% of the positive association between MBzP and higher AMH, whereas higher ovarian volume due to a 10% increase in MCPP (indirect effect %Δ: 0.11; 95% CI: -0.01, 0.22) explained 23% of the positive association between MCPP and E2. CONCLUSION In this cross-sectional study, phthalates were associated with increased ovarian volume, with implications for midlife hormone production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria E Cinzori
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, United States; Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, United States; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, United States
| | - Diana C Pacyga
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, United States; Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, United States
| | - Elnur Babayev
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
| | - Zhong Li
- Roy J. Carver Biotechnology Center, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL 61801, United States
| | - Paige L Williams
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, United States; Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL 61802, United States
| | - Rita S Strakovsky
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, United States; Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, United States.
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21
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Shanmugam DAS, Dhatchanamurthy S, Leela KA, Bhaskaran RS. Maternal exposure to di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) causes multigenerational adverse effects on the uterus of F 1 and F 2 offspring rats. Reprod Toxicol 2023; 115:17-28. [PMID: 36435455 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Phthalates are one of the ubiquitous chemicals found in day-to-day products like food packaging, children's toys, and other consumer commodities. There is rising concern that repeated exposure to phthalates during pregnancy and lactation could have long-term effects on maternal and fetal health. We hypothesize that exposure to DEHP during the developmental windows might affect the expression of molecules that regulate uterine function and that this effect would be passed on to further generations. Rat dams were treated with olive oil (vehicle) or DEHP (100 mg/kg b.wt./day) orally from gestational day 9 (GD 9) to the end of lactation (PND 21). F0 maternal DEHP exposure resulted in multigenerational (F1 and F2) reproductive toxicity, as evidenced by an extended estrous cycle, decreased mating, fertility, and fecundity indices. Serum progesterone and estradiol levels were decreased and their cognate receptors (PR and ERα) in the uterus were decreased in the DEHP-exposed offspring rats. Further analysis of the expression of estrogen and progesterone regulatory genes such as Hox a11, VEGF A, Ihh, LIFR, EP4, PTCH, NR2F2, BMP2, and Wnt4 were reduced in the uteri of adult F1 and F2 generation rats born from DEHP-exposed F0 dams. Decreased expression of these crucial proteins due to DEHP exposure may lead to defects in epithelial proliferation and secretion, uterine receptivity, and decidualization in the uteri of successive generations. This study showed that maternal DEHP exposure impairs the expression of molecules that regulate uterine function and this multigenerational effect is transmitted via maternal lineage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dharani Abirama Sundari Shanmugam
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. ALM. Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai 600113, India
| | - Sakthivel Dhatchanamurthy
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. ALM. Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai 600113, India
| | - Kamakshi Arjunan Leela
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. ALM. Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai 600113, India
| | - Ravi Sankar Bhaskaran
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. ALM. Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Chennai 600113, India.
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22
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Ovarian Reserve Disorders, Can We Prevent Them? A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315426. [PMID: 36499748 PMCID: PMC9737352 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The ovarian reserve is finite and begins declining from its peak at mid-gestation until only residual follicles remain as women approach menopause. Reduced ovarian reserve, or its extreme form, premature ovarian insufficiency, stems from multiple factors, including developmental, genetic, environmental exposures, autoimmune disease, or medical/surgical treatment. In many cases, the cause remains unknown and resulting infertility is not ultimately addressed by assisted reproductive technologies. Deciphering the mechanisms that underlie disorders of ovarian reserve could improve the outcomes for patients struggling with infertility, but these disorders are diverse and can be categorized in multiple ways. In this review, we will explore the topic from a perspective that emphasizes the prevention or mitigation of ovarian damage. The most desirable mode of fertoprotection is primary prevention (intervening before ablative influence occurs), as identifying toxic influences and deciphering the mechanisms by which they exert their effect can reduce or eliminate exposure and damage. Secondary prevention in the form of screening is not recommended broadly. Nevertheless, in some instances where a known genetic background exists in discrete families, screening is advised. As part of prenatal care, screening panels include some genetic diseases that can lead to infertility or subfertility. In these patients, early diagnosis could enable fertility preservation or changes in family-building plans. Finally, Tertiary Prevention (managing disease post-diagnosis) is critical. Reduced ovarian reserve has a major influence on physiology beyond fertility, including delayed/absent puberty or premature menopause. In these instances, proper diagnosis and medical therapy can reduce adverse effects. Here, we elaborate on these modes of prevention as well as proposed mechanisms that underlie ovarian reserve disorders.
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23
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Rebuzzini P, Fabozzi G, Cimadomo D, Ubaldi FM, Rienzi L, Zuccotti M, Garagna S. Multi- and Transgenerational Effects of Environmental Toxicants on Mammalian Reproduction. Cells 2022; 11:cells11193163. [PMID: 36231124 PMCID: PMC9563050 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Environmental toxicants (ETs) are an exogenous chemical group diffused in the environment that contaminate food, water, air and soil, and through the food chain, they bioaccumulate into the organisms. In mammals, the exposure to ETs can affect both male and female fertility and their reproductive health through complex alterations that impact both gametogeneses, among other processes. In humans, direct exposure to ETs concurs to the declining of fertility, and its transmission across generations has been recently proposed. However, multi- and transgenerational inheritances of ET reprotoxicity have only been demonstrated in animals. Here, we review recent studies performed on laboratory model animals investigating the effects of ETs, such as BPA, phthalates, pesticides and persistent contaminants, on the reproductive system transmitted through generations. This includes multigenerational effects, where exposure to the compounds cannot be excluded, and transgenerational effects in unexposed animals. Additionally, we report on epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, histone tails and noncoding RNAs, which may play a mechanistic role in a nongenetic transmission of environmental information exposure through the germline across generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Rebuzzini
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, Via Ferrata 9, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Correspondence: (P.R.); (M.Z.); (S.G.); Tel.: +39-0382-986323 (P.R. & M.Z. & S.G.)
| | - Gemma Fabozzi
- Clinica Valle Giulia, GeneraLife IVF, Via De Notaris 2B, 00197 Rome, Italy
| | - Danilo Cimadomo
- Clinica Valle Giulia, GeneraLife IVF, Via De Notaris 2B, 00197 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Laura Rienzi
- Clinica Valle Giulia, GeneraLife IVF, Via De Notaris 2B, 00197 Rome, Italy
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, Via Sant’Andrea 34, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Maurizio Zuccotti
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, Via Ferrata 9, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Centre for Health Technologies (CHT), University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Correspondence: (P.R.); (M.Z.); (S.G.); Tel.: +39-0382-986323 (P.R. & M.Z. & S.G.)
| | - Silvia Garagna
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, Via Ferrata 9, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Centre for Health Technologies (CHT), University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Correspondence: (P.R.); (M.Z.); (S.G.); Tel.: +39-0382-986323 (P.R. & M.Z. & S.G.)
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Kowalczyk A, Wrzecińska M, Czerniawska-Piątkowska E, Araújo JP, Cwynar P. Molecular consequences of the exposure to toxic substances for the endocrine system of females. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 155:113730. [PMID: 36152416 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are common in the environment and in everyday products such as cosmetics, plastic food packaging, and medicines. These substances are toxic in small doses (even in the order of micrograms) and enter the body through the skin, digestive or respiratory system. Numerous studies confirm the negative impact of EDCs on living organisms. They disrupt endocrine functions, contributing to the development of neoplastic and neurological diseases, as well as problems with the circulatory system and reproduction. EDCs affect humans and animals by modulating epigenetic processes that can lead to disturbances in gene expression or failure and even death. They also affect steroid hormones by binding to their receptors as well as interfering with synthesis and secretion of hormones. Prenatal exposure may be related to the impact of EDCs on offspring, resulting in effects of these substances on the ovaries and leading to the reduction of fertility through disturbances in the function of steroid receptors or problems with steroidogenesis and gametogenesis. Current literature indicates the need to continue research on the effects of EDCs on the female reproductive system. The aim of this review was to identify the effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on the female reproductive system and their genetic effects based on recent literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicja Kowalczyk
- Department of Environmental Hygiene and Animal Welfare, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Chełmońskiego 38C, Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Marcjanna Wrzecińska
- Department of Ruminant Science, West Pomeranian University of Technology, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland.
| | - Ewa Czerniawska-Piątkowska
- Department of Ruminant Science, West Pomeranian University of Technology, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland.
| | - José Pedro Araújo
- Mountain Research Centre (CIMO), Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, Rua D. Mendo Afonso, 147, Refóios do Lima, 4990-706 Ponte de Lima, Portugal.
| | - Przemysław Cwynar
- Department of Environmental Hygiene and Animal Welfare, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Chełmońskiego 38C, Wrocław, Poland.
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25
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Crobeddu B, Jutras-Carignan A, Kolasa É, Mounier C, Robaire B, Plante I. Gestational and lactational exposure to the emergent alternative plasticizer 1,2-cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid diisononyl ester (DINCH) impairs lipid metabolism to a greater extent than the commonly used Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) in the adult rat mammary gland. Toxicol Sci 2022; 189:268-286. [PMID: 35861430 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfac076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to their endocrine disruption properties, phthalate plasticizers such as di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) can affect the hormone-dependent development of the mammary gland. Over the past few years, DEHP has been partially replaced by 1,2-cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid diisononyl ester (DINCH) which also have potential endocrine disrupting properties. The goal of the present study is to understand the impact of a gestational and lactational exposure to DEHP and DINCH on mammary gland development using Sprague-Dawley rats. Both plasticizers altered the adipocytes of the mammary gland fat pad of adult progeny, as demonstrated by a decrease in their size, folding of their membrane and modulations of the lipid profiles. DEHP treatments decreased the expression of Rxrα and Scd1 at the low and high dose, respectively, but did not affect any of the other genes studied. DINCH modulation of lipid metabolism could be observed at puberty by a decreased expression of genes implicated in triglyceride synthesis, lipid transport and lipolysis, but by an increased expression of genes of the β-oxidation pathway and of genes involved in lipid storage and fatty acid synthesis at adulthood, compared to control and DEHP-treated rats. A strong upregulation of different inflammatory markers was observed following DINCH exposure only. Together, our results indicate that a gestational and lactational exposure to DINCH has earlier and more significant effects on lipid homeostasis, adipogenesis and the inflammatory state of the adult mammary gland than DEHP exposure. The long-term consequence of these effects on mammary gland health remained to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bélinda Crobeddu
- INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, 531 boul. des Prairies, Laval, Québec, H7V 1B7, Canada
| | - Antoine Jutras-Carignan
- Laboratoire du métabolisme des lipides, CERMO-FC, Département des sciences biologiques, Université du Québec à Montréal, Case postale 8888, succursale Centre-Ville, Montréal, Québec, H3C 3P8, Canada
| | - Élise Kolasa
- INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, 531 boul. des Prairies, Laval, Québec, H7V 1B7, Canada
| | - Catherine Mounier
- Laboratoire du métabolisme des lipides, CERMO-FC, Département des sciences biologiques, Université du Québec à Montréal, Case postale 8888, succursale Centre-Ville, Montréal, Québec, H3C 3P8, Canada
| | - Bernard Robaire
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3G 1Y6, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Isabelle Plante
- INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, 531 boul. des Prairies, Laval, Québec, H7V 1B7, Canada
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Lin J, Cheng S, Zhang J, Yuan S, Zhang L, Wu J, Chen J, Tang M, Zhao L, Yin Y. The Relationship Between Daily Dietary Intake of Fiber and Short Sleep Duration in the Presence of Di(2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate: A Population-Based Study. Front Nutr 2022; 9:910892. [PMID: 35782937 PMCID: PMC9240702 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.910892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between daily dietary intake of fiber (DDIF) and short sleep duration (SSD) in the presence of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate. Methods Data of 13,634 participants in this study were collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The sum of urinary mono-2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl phthalate, mono-(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate, mono-(2-ethyl)-hexyl phthalate, and mono-(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate was used to evaluate the level of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) exposure. The ln-transformed urinary creatinine-corrected DEHP [ln(DEHP/UCr)] level was used in the statistical models. DDIF was divided into tertiles (<5.77 g/1,000 kcal, 5.77–9.04 g/1,000 kcal, and ≥9.04 g/1,000 kcal). Results The 13,634 participants included in this study were classified into two groups according to sleep duration. The dose response analysis showed that higher ln(DEHP/UCr) was related to a higher risk of SSD (<7 h and <6 h). Participants in the highest vs. the lowest quartile of DEHP were found to be at increased risk of SSD (<7 h, <6 h, and <5 h). The result of risk of SSD <7 h was OR 1.57, 95% CI, 1.40–1.76; Ptrend <0.001, of SSD <6 h was OR 1.38, 95% CI, 1.18–1.61; Ptrend <0.001, and of SSD <5 h was OR 1.45, 95% CI, 1.13–1.86; Ptrend <0.001. DEHP exposure was found to be associated with SSD <7 h in a sex-specific manner (Pinteraction = 0.033). A significant interaction between ln(DEHP/UCr) and DDIF(tertiles1 vs. tertiles2) (Pinteraction = 0.02) was detected for SSD <7 h. Conclusion Our results showed that there was a harmful association between DEHP exposure and SSD (<7 h, <6 h, and <5 h). The ameliorative effects of median level of DDIF on SSD <7 h in the presence of DEHP exposure were observed in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jilei Lin
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Siying Cheng
- Department of Neurology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuhua Yuan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinhong Wu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiande Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingyu Tang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liebin Zhao
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Intelligence Pediatrics, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Liebin Zhao
| | - Yong Yin
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Intelligence Pediatrics, Shanghai, China
- Pediatric AI Clinical Application and Research Center, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai, China
- Yong Yin
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Zhao YX, Tang YX, Sun XH, Zhu SY, Dai XY, Li XN, Li JL. Gap Junction Protein Connexin 43 as a Target Is Internalized in Astrocyte Neurotoxicity Caused by Di-(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2022; 70:5921-5931. [PMID: 35446567 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c01635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is widely used as a plasticizer in plastic products, consumer products, and packaging materials. It is of great health concern in both animals and humans as it released into the environment and entered into the body from plastic products over time, thereby resulting in neurotoxicity. As a pivotal regulator of the central nervous system (CNS), astrocytes, are crucial for maintaining brain homeostasis. Nevertheless, the underlying reason for astrocyte neurotoxicity due to DEHP exposure remains incompletely understood. Here, using an in vivo model of neurotoxicity in quail, this study summarizes that Cx43 is internalized by phosphorylation and translocated to the nucleus as a consequence of DEHP exposure in astrocytes. This study further demonstrated that astrocytes transformed to pro-inflammatory status and induced the formation of autophagosomes. Of note, integrated immunofluorescent codetection approaches revealed an overexpression of the glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and down-expression of Cx43 in astrocytes. Therefore, in terms of neurotoxicity, this experiment in vivo models directly linked Cx43 internalization to autophagy and neuroinflammation and ultimately locked these changes to the astrocytes of the brain. These findings unveil a potential approach targeting Cx43 internalization for the treatment of neurodegeneration caused by DEHP exposure in astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Xin Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P. R. China
| | - Yi-Xi Tang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Han Sun
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P. R. China
| | - Shi-Yong Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P. R. China
| | - Xue-Yan Dai
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P. R. China
| | - Xue-Nan Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P. R. China
| | - Jin-Long Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, P. R. China
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Fletcher EJ, Santacruz-Márquez R, Mourikes VE, Neff AM, Laws MJ, Flaws JA. Effects of Phthalate Mixtures on Ovarian Folliculogenesis and Steroidogenesis. TOXICS 2022; 10:251. [PMID: 35622664 PMCID: PMC9143992 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10050251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The female reproductive system is dependent upon the health of the ovaries. The ovaries are responsible for regulating reproduction and endocrine function. Throughout a female's reproductive lifespan, the ovaries undergo continual structural changes that are crucial for the maturation of ovarian follicles and the production of sex steroid hormones. Phthalates are known to target the ovaries at critical time points and to disrupt normal reproductive function. The US population is constantly exposed to measurable levels of phthalates. Phthalates can also pass placental barriers and affect the developing offspring. Phthalates are frequently prevalent as mixtures; however, most previous studies have focused on the effects of single phthalates on the ovary and female reproduction. Thus, the effects of exposure to phthalate mixtures on ovarian function and the female reproductive system remain unclear. Following a brief introduction to the ovary and its major roles, this review covers what is currently known about the effects of phthalate mixtures on the ovary, focusing primarily on their effects on folliculogenesis and steroidogenesis. Furthermore, this review focuses on the effects of phthalate mixtures on female reproductive outcomes. Finally, this review emphasizes the need for future research on the effects of environmentally relevant phthalate mixtures on the ovary and female reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jodi A. Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA; (E.J.F.); (R.S.-M.); (V.E.M.); (A.M.N.); (M.J.L.)
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29
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Plante I, Winn LM, Vaillancourt C, Grigorova P, Parent L. Killing two birds with one stone: Pregnancy is a sensitive window for endocrine effects on both the mother and the fetus. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 205:112435. [PMID: 34843719 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Pregnancy is a complex process requiring tremendous physiological changes in the mother in order to fulfill the needs of the growing fetus, and to give birth, expel the placenta and nurse the newborn. These physiological modifications are accompanied with psychological changes, as well as with variations in habits and behaviors. As a result, this period of life is considered as a sensitive window as impaired functional and physiological changes in the mother can have short- and long-term impacts on her health. In addition, dysregulation of the placenta and of mechanisms governing placentation have been linked to chronic diseases later-on in life for the fetus, in a concept known as the Developmental Origin of Health and Diseases (DOHaD). This concept stipulates that any change in the environment during the pre-conception and perinatal (in utero life and neonatal) period to puberty, can be "imprinted" in the organism, thereby impacting the health and risk of chronic diseases later in life. Pregnancy is a succession of events that is regulated, in large part, by hormones and growth factors. Therefore, small changes in hormonal balance can have important effects on both the mother and the developing fetus. An increasing number of studies demonstrate that exposure to endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) affect both the mother and the fetus giving rise to growing concerns surrounding these exposures. This review will give an overview of changes that happen during pregnancy with respect to the mother, the placenta, and the fetus, and of the current literature regarding the effects of EDCs during this specific sensitive window of exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Plante
- INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Laval, QC, Canada.
| | - Louise M Winn
- Queen's University, School of Environmental Studies, Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | | | - Petya Grigorova
- Département Science et Technologie, Université TELUQ, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Lise Parent
- Département Science et Technologie, Université TELUQ, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Dziobak MK, Wells RS, Pisarski EC, Wirth EF, Hart LB. A Correlational Analysis of Phthalate Exposure and Thyroid Hormone Levels in Common Bottlenose Dolphins ( Tursiops truncatus) from Sarasota Bay, Florida (2010-2019). Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:824. [PMID: 35405813 PMCID: PMC8996861 DOI: 10.3390/ani12070824] [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: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Phthalates are chemical esters used to enhance desirable properties of plastics, personal care, and cleaning products. Phthalates have shown ubiquitous environmental contamination due to their abundant use and propensity to leach from products to which they are added. Following exposure, phthalates are rapidly metabolized and excreted through urine. Common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) sampled from Sarasota Bay, Florida, have demonstrated prevalent di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) exposure indicated by detectable urinary mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) concentrations. Widespread exposure is concerning due to evidence of endocrine disruption from human and laboratory studies. To better understand how phthalate exposure may impact dolphin health, correlations between relevant hormone levels and detectable urinary MEHP concentrations were examined. Hormone concentrations measured via blood serum samples included triiodothyronine (T3), total thyroxine (T4), and free thyroxine (FT4). Urinary MEHP concentrations were detected in 56% of sampled individuals (n = 50; mean = 8.13 ng/mL; s.d. = 15.99 ng/mL). Adult female and male FT4 was significantly correlated with urinary MEHP concentrations (adult female Kendall's tau = 0.36, p = 0.04; adult male Kendall's tau = 0.42, p = 0.02). Evidence from this study suggests DEHP exposure may be impacting thyroid hormone homeostasis. Cumulative effects of other stressors and resultant endocrine impacts are unknown. Further research is warranted to understand potential health implications associated with this relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda K. Dziobak
- Environmental and Sustainability Studies Graduate Program, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424, USA
- Environmental Health Sciences Graduate Program, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Randall S. Wells
- Chicago Zoological Society’s Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, c/o Mote Marine Laboratory, Sarasota, FL 34236, USA;
| | - Emily C. Pisarski
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Ocean Service, National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, Charleston, SC 29412, USA; (E.C.P.); (E.F.W.)
| | - Ed F. Wirth
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Ocean Service, National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, Charleston, SC 29412, USA; (E.C.P.); (E.F.W.)
| | - Leslie B. Hart
- Department of Health and Human Performance, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424, USA
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31
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Prenatal exposure to the phthalate DEHP impacts reproduction-related gene expression in the pituitary. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 108:18-27. [PMID: 34954075 PMCID: PMC8882145 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Phthalates are chemicals used in products including plastics, personal care products, and building materials, leading to widespread contact. Previous studies on prenatal exposure to Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) in mice and humans demonstrated pubertal timing and reproductive performance could be affected in exposed offspring. However, the impacts at the pituitary, specifically regarding signaling pathways engaged and direct effects on the gonadotropins LH and FSH, are unknown. We hypothesized prenatal exposure to DEHP during a critical period of embryonic development (e15.5 to e18.5) will cause sex-specific disruptions in reproduction-related mRNA expression in offspring's pituitary due to interference with androgen and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) signaling. We found that prenatal DEHP exposure in vivo caused a significant increase in Fshb specifically in males, while the anti-androgen flutamide caused significant increases in both Lhb and Fshb in males. AhR target gene Cyp1b1 was increased in both sexes in DEHP-exposed offspring. In embryonic pituitary cultures, the DEHP metabolite MEHP increased Cyp1a1 and Cyp1b1 mRNA in both sexes and Cyp1b1 induction was reduced by co-treatment with AhR antagonist. AhR reporter assay in GHFT1 cells confirmed MEHP can activate AhR signaling. Lhb, Fshb and Gnrhr mRNA were significantly decreased in both sexes by MEHP, but co-treatment with AhR antagonist did not restore mRNA levels in pituitary culture. In summary, our data suggest phthalates can directly affect the function of the pituitary by activating AhR signaling and altering gonadotropin expression. This indicates DEHP's impacts on the pituitary could contribute to reproductive dysfunctions observed in exposed mice and humans.
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32
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Neff AM, Laws MJ, Warner GR, Flaws JA. The Effects of Environmental Contaminant Exposure on Reproductive Aging and the Menopause Transition. Curr Environ Health Rep 2022; 9:53-79. [PMID: 35103957 PMCID: PMC8988816 DOI: 10.1007/s40572-022-00334-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Menopause marks the end of a woman's reproductive lifetime. On average, natural menopause occurs at 51 years of age. However, some women report an earlier age of menopause than the national average. This can be problematic for women who delay starting a family. Moreover, early onset of menopause is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, depression, osteoporosis, and premature death. This review investigates associations between exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and earlier onset of menopause. RECENT FINDINGS Recent data suggest exposure to certain EDCs may accelerate reproductive aging and contribute to earlier onset of menopause. Human and rodent-based studies identify positive associations between exposure to certain EDCs/environmental contaminants and reproductive aging, earlier onset of menopause, and occurrence of vasomotor symptoms. These findings increase our understanding of the detrimental effects of EDCs on female reproduction and will help lead to the development of strategies for the treatment/prevention of EDC-induced reproductive aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison M Neff
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, 3223 Vet Med Basic Sciences Bldg, Urbana, IL, 61802, USA
| | - Mary J Laws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, 3223 Vet Med Basic Sciences Bldg, Urbana, IL, 61802, USA
| | - Genoa R Warner
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, 3223 Vet Med Basic Sciences Bldg, Urbana, IL, 61802, USA
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2001 South Lincoln Avenue, 3223 Vet Med Basic Sciences Bldg, Urbana, IL, 61802, USA.
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Robaire B, Delbes G, Head JA, Marlatt VL, Martyniuk CJ, Reynaud S, Trudeau VL, Mennigen JA. A cross-species comparative approach to assessing multi- and transgenerational effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 204:112063. [PMID: 34562476 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
A wide range of chemicals have been identified as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in vertebrate species. Most studies of EDCs have focused on exposure of both male and female adults to these chemicals; however, there is clear evidence that EDCs have dramatic effects when mature or developing gametes are exposed, and consequently are associated with in multigenerational and transgenerational effects. Several publications have reviewed such actions of EDCs in subgroups of species, e.g., fish or rodents. In this review, we take a holistic approach synthesizing knowledge of the effects of EDCs across vertebrate species, including fish, anurans, birds, and mammals, and discuss the potential mechanism(s) mediating such multi- and transgenerational effects. We also propose a series of recommendations aimed at moving the field forward in a structured and coherent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard Robaire
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics and of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
| | - Geraldine Delbes
- Centre Armand Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut National de La Recherche Scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - Jessica A Head
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Vicki L Marlatt
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Christopher J Martyniuk
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Stéphane Reynaud
- Univ. Grenoble-Alpes, Université. Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, LECA, Grenoble, 38000, France
| | - Vance L Trudeau
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Jan A Mennigen
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Jadhao M, Chen CL, Liu W, Deshmukh D, Liao WT, Chen JYF, Urade R, Tsai EM, Hsu SK, Wang LF, Chiu CC. Endoglin Modulates TGFβR2 Induced VEGF and Proinflammatory Cytokine Axis Mediated Angiogenesis in Prolonged DEHP-Exposed Breast Cancer Cells. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020417. [PMID: 35203627 PMCID: PMC8962291 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis is the process of vascular network development and plays a crucial role in cancer growth, progression, and metastasis. Phthalates are a class of environmental pollutants that have detrimental effects on human health and are reported to increase cancer risk. However, the interplay between phthalate exposure and angiogenesis has not been investigated thoroughly. In this study, we investigated the effect of prolonged di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) treatment on the angiogenic potential of triple-negative breast cancer. MDA-MB-231 cells were exposed to physiological concentrations of DEHP for more than three months. Prolonged DEHP exposure induced angiogenesis in breast cancer cells. Endoglin (ENG)/CD105 is a membrane glycoprotein and an auxiliary receptor of the TGFβ receptor complex. In endothelial cells, ENG is highly expressed and it is a prerequisite for developmental angiogenesis. A literature review highlights endoglin as a well-known mesenchymal stem cell marker responsible for vascular development and angiogenesis. NGS analysis showed that endoglin overexpression in DEHP-exposed MDA-MB-231 cells correlated with tumor development and growth. An in vivo zebrafish xenograft assay showed that VEGFA induced sprouting of the subintestinal vein (SIV) in embryos injected with DEHP-exposed cells. Endoglin knockdown reduced SIV sprouting and VEGFA expression in zebrafish embryos. An in vitro HUVEC tube formation assay showed that endoglin depletion reversed DEHP-induced VEGF-mediated HUVEC tube formation in coculture. DEHP-induced endoglin activated TGFβ/SMAD3/VEGF and MAPK/p38 signaling in MDA-MB-231 cells. A cytokine angiogenesis antibody array showed induced expression of the inflammatory cytokines IL1α, IL1β, IL6, and IL8, along with GMCSF and VEGF. Endoglin knockdown reversed DEHP-induced activation of the TGFβ/SMAD3/VEGF signaling axis, MAPK/p38 signaling, and cytokine regulation, limiting angiogenesis potential both in vivo and in vitro. Targeting endoglin might serve as a potential alternative treatment to control angiogenesis, leading to metastasis and limiting cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahendra Jadhao
- Department of Medicinal and Applied Chemistry, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan; (M.J.); (D.D.)
| | - Chun-Lin Chen
- Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 804, Taiwan; (C.-L.C.); (R.U.)
- Graduate Institute of Natural Products, College of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Wangta Liu
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan; (W.L.); (W.-T.L.); (J.Y.-F.C.); (S.-K.H.)
| | - Dhanashri Deshmukh
- Department of Medicinal and Applied Chemistry, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan; (M.J.); (D.D.)
| | - Wei-Ting Liao
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan; (W.L.); (W.-T.L.); (J.Y.-F.C.); (S.-K.H.)
| | - Jeff Yi-Fu Chen
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan; (W.L.); (W.-T.L.); (J.Y.-F.C.); (S.-K.H.)
| | - Ritesh Urade
- Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 804, Taiwan; (C.-L.C.); (R.U.)
| | - Eing-Mei Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan;
- The Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Kai Hsu
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan; (W.L.); (W.-T.L.); (J.Y.-F.C.); (S.-K.H.)
| | - Li-Fang Wang
- Department of Medicinal and Applied Chemistry, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan; (M.J.); (D.D.)
- Correspondence: (L.-F.W.); (C.-C.C.); Tel.: +886-67-312-1101 (ext. 2217) (L.-F.W.); +886-67-312-1101 (ext. 2368) (C.-C.C.); Fax: +886-67-312-5339 (L.-F.W.)
| | - Chien-Chih Chiu
- Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 804, Taiwan; (C.-L.C.); (R.U.)
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan; (W.L.); (W.-T.L.); (J.Y.-F.C.); (S.-K.H.)
- The Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (L.-F.W.); (C.-C.C.); Tel.: +886-67-312-1101 (ext. 2217) (L.-F.W.); +886-67-312-1101 (ext. 2368) (C.-C.C.); Fax: +886-67-312-5339 (L.-F.W.)
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Huang R, Li J, Liao M, Ma L, Laurent I, Lin X, Zhang Y, Gao R, Ding Y, Xiao X. Combinational exposure to Bisphenol A and a high-fat diet causes trans-generational Malfunction of the female reproductive system in mice. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 541:111507. [PMID: 34785282 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a common endocrine disruptor and a high-fat diet (HFD) also affects fertility. However, little is known about the long-term consequences of simultaneous exposure to BPA and a HFD on reproductive health. Herein, we assessed the effects of maternal exposure to BPA in combination with a HFD on reproductive function in subsequent generations of female mice and evaluated its effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. We found that the combination of maternal exposure to BPA and a HFD led to increased urine BPA levels, precocious puberty, altered estrous cyclicity, decreased follicle numbers, and altered hypothalamic Kiss1 methylation status in F1 and F2 mice. Therefore, we demonstrated that maternal exposure to BPA in combination with a HFD exerts a trans-generational effect on female reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongfeng Huang
- Department of Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; The Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Major Metabolic Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiayu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; The Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Major Metabolic Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Maolin Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; The Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Major Metabolic Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; The Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Major Metabolic Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Irakoze Laurent
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; The Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Major Metabolic Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaojing Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; The Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Major Metabolic Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yunqi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; The Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Major Metabolic Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Rufei Gao
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yubin Ding
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoqiu Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; State Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Chongqing Municipality, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; The Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Major Metabolic Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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Gill S, Brehm E, Leon K, Chiu J, Meling DD, Flaws JA. Prenatal exposure to an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture alters ovarian steroidogenesis and folliculogenesis in the F1 generation of adult female mice. Reprod Toxicol 2021; 106:25-31. [PMID: 34597818 PMCID: PMC8643306 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Phthalates are a family of chemicals that can be found in plastic and personal care products used by consumers every day and they are known endocrine disrupting chemicals that can disrupt female reproduction. In previous studies, an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture was shown to affect female reproduction in a transgenerational manner. However, limited information was available on the effect of phthalate mixtures on ovarian steroidogenesis and folliculogenesis. Ovarian steroidogenesis is important for producing hormones needed for reproduction and ovarian regulation, and folliculogenesis is essential for the development of ovarian follicles and successful fertility. Thus, this study tested the hypothesis that prenatal exposure to an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture adversely affects ovarian steroidogenesis and folliculogenesis in the F1 generation of adult female mice. Pregnant dams (F0 generation) were orally dosed with vehicle control or a phthalate mixture (20 μg/kg/day-500 mg/kg/day) daily from gestational day 10 to birth, and the adult F1 females were the offspring of the dosed dams. The ovaries of the F1 generation were collected at postnatal day 60. One ovary was used for histological examination of the numbers and percent of different follicle types. The other ovary was used to measure expression of theca and granulosa cell enzymes. Additionally, sera were collected for measuring hormone levels. The results indicate that prenatal exposure to the phthalate mixture decreases hormone levels and gene expression, alters the transitioning of follicle types, and leads to a higher incidence of atresia in the F1 generation offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Gill
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Emily Brehm
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Kathleen Leon
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Justin Chiu
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Daryl D Meling
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States.
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Chiang C, Pacyga DC, Strakovsky RS, Smith RL, James-Todd T, Williams PL, Hauser R, Meling DD, Li Z, Flaws JA. Urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations and serum hormone levels in pre- and perimenopausal women from the Midlife Women's Health Study. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 156:106633. [PMID: 34004451 PMCID: PMC8380691 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phthalate exposure is associated with altered reproductive function, but little is known about associations between phthalate and hormone levels in midlife women. METHODS This cross-sectional analysis includes 45-54-year-old pre- and perimenopausal women from Baltimore, MD and its surrounding counties enrolled in the Midlife Women's Health Study (n = 718). Serum and urine samples were collected from participants once a week for four consecutive weeks to span the menstrual cycle. Serum samples were assayed for estradiol, testosterone, progesterone, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), and geometric means were calculated for each hormone across all four weeks. Urine samples were analyzed for nine phthalate metabolites from pools of one-to-four urine samples. Phthalate metabolite concentrations were specific gravity-adjusted and assessed as individual metabolites or as molar sums of metabolites from common parents (di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate metabolites, ∑DEHP), exposure sources (plastic, ∑Plastics; personal care products, ∑PCP), biological activity (anti-androgenic, ∑AA), and sum of all metabolites (∑Phthalates). We used linear regression models to assess overall associations of phthalate metabolites with hormones, controlling for important demographic, lifestyle, and health factors. We also explored whether associations differed by menopause status, body mass index (BMI), and race/ethnicity. RESULTS Most participants were non-Hispanic white (67%) or black (29%), college-educated (65%), employed (80%), and had somewhat higher mean urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations than other U.S. women. Overall, the following positive associations were observed between phthalate metabolites and hormones: ∑DEHP (%Δ: 4.9; 95%CI: 0.5, 9.6), ∑Plastics (%Δ: 5.1; 95%CI: 0.3, 10.0), and ∑AA (%Δ: 7.8; 95%CI: 2.3, 13.6) with estradiol; MiBP (%Δ: 6.6; 95%CI: 1.5, 12.1) with testosterone; ∑DEHP (%Δ: 8.3; 95%CI: 1.5, 15.6), ∑Plastics (%Δ: 9.8; 95%CI: 2.4, 17.7), MEP (%Δ: 4.6; 95%CI: 0.1, 9.2), ∑PCP (%Δ: 6.0; 95%CI: 0.2, 12.2), ∑Phthalates (%Δ: 9.0; 95%CI: 2.1, 16.5), and ∑AA (%Δ: 12.9; 95%CI: 4.4, 22.1) with progesterone; and MBP (%Δ: 8.5; 95%CI: 1.2, 16.3) and ∑AA (%Δ: 9.0; 95%CI: 1.3, 17.4) with AMH. Associations of phthalate metabolites with hormones differed by menopause status (strongest in premenopausal women for estradiol, progesterone, and FSH), BMI (strongest in obese women for progesterone), and race/ethnicity (strongest in non-Hispanic white women for estradiol and AMH). CONCLUSIONS We found that phthalate metabolites were positively associated with several hormones in midlife women, and that some demographic and lifestyle characteristics modified these associations. Future longitudinal studies are needed to corroborate these findings in more diverse midlife populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catheryne Chiang
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61802, United States
| | - Diana C Pacyga
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, United States; Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, United States; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, United States
| | - Rita S Strakovsky
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, United States; Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, United States
| | - Rebecca L Smith
- Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61801, United States; Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61802, United States
| | - Tamarra James-Todd
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, United States; Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Paige L Williams
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, United States; Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Russ Hauser
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, United States; Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Daryl D Meling
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61802, United States
| | - Zhong Li
- Roy J. Carver Biotechnology Center, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61801, United States
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61802, United States; Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61801, United States.
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Brehm E, Flaws JA. Prenatal exposure to a mixture of phthalates accelerates the age-related decline in reproductive capacity but may not affect direct biomarkers of ovarian aging in the F1 generation of female mice. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2021; 7:dvab010. [PMID: 34707890 PMCID: PMC8543146 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvab010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Phthalates are used in many consumer products, leading to daily human exposure. Although many studies focus on single phthalates, humans are exposed to mixtures of phthalates. Our laboratory created a phthalate mixture consisting of six different phthalates and found that it negatively affected female reproduction and accelerated some biomarkers of reproductive aging. However, it was unknown if prenatal exposure to the mixture accelerates the natural decline in reproductive capacity and ovarian aging in mice. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that prenatal exposure to a phthalate mixture accelerates the age-related decline in reproductive capacity and biomarkers of ovarian aging in the F1 generation of mice. Pregnant CD-1 dams were orally dosed with control or phthalate mixture (20 µg/kg/day-200 mg/kg/day) daily from gestational day 10-birth. The F1 female pups were aged to 11-13 months, and then estrous cyclicity and breeding trials were conducted at 11 and 13 months. Ovaries were collected from the F1 females at 13 months to examine biomarkers of ovarian aging. Prenatal exposure to the phthalate mixture decreased the time the F1 females spent in proestrus and the ability of the F1 females to give birth at 11 and 13 months of age compared to control. In contrast, prenatal exposure to the mixture did not affect biomarkers of direct aging of the ovary in the F1 generation. Collectively, our data show that prenatal phthalate mixture exposure accelerates the natural age-related decline in reproductive capacity but may not affect some biomarkers of ovarian aging in the F1 generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Brehm
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2001 S. Lincoln Ave. Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2001 S. Lincoln Ave. Urbana, IL 61802, USA
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Lee Y, Rattan S, Barakat R, Inman Z, De La Torre KM, Meling DD, Monaco MH, Irudayaraj JM, Cann IK, Ko CJ, Donovan SM, Flaws JA, Warner GR. Early postnatal exposure to di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate causes sex-specific disruption of gonadal development in pigs. Reprod Toxicol 2021; 105:53-61. [PMID: 34425191 PMCID: PMC8511162 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a chemical commonly used as a plasticizer to render polyvinyl chloride products more durable and flexible. Although exposure to DEHP has raised many health concerns due to the identification of DEHP as an endocrine disruptor, it is still used in consumer products, including polyvinyl chloride plastics, medical tubing, car interiors, and children's toys. To investigate the impact of early life exposure to DEHP on the ovary and testes, newborn piglets were orally dosed with DEHP (20 or 200 mg/kg/day) or vehicle control (tocopherol-stripped corn oil) for 21 days. Following treatment, ovaries, testes, and sera were harvested for histological assessment and measurement of steroid hormone levels. In male piglets, progesterone and pregnenolone levels were significantly lower in both treatment groups compared to control, whereas in female piglets, progesterone was significantly higher in the 20 mg group compared to control, indicating sex-specific effects in a non-monotonic manner. Follicle numbers and gene expression of steroidogenic enzymes and apoptotic factors were not altered in treated ovaries compared to controls. In DEHP-treated testes, germ cell migration was impaired and germ cell death was significantly increased compared to controls. Overall, the results of this study suggest that neonatal exposure to DEHP in pigs leads to sex-specific disruption of the reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuna Lee
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Saniya Rattan
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Radwa Barakat
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States; Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Qalyubia, Egypt
| | - Zane Inman
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Kathy M De La Torre
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Daryl D Meling
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Marcia H Monaco
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Joseph M Irudayaraj
- Department of Bioengineering, Grainger College of Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States; Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Isaac K Cann
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States; Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Chemyong J Ko
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Sharon M Donovan
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States; Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Genoa R Warner
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States.
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Repouskou A, Stamatakis A, Kitraki E. In utero exposure to phthalates and reproductive toxicity in rodents. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 35:101512. [PMID: 34266749 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2021.101512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Phthalates, widely used as plasticizers, are contained in many everyday products. Human biomonitoring studies detect their presence in biological fluids of a large part of the population worldwide. Maternal exposure during pregnancy has been related with aberrations in the reproductive growth of male infants. Rodent studies show that gestational exposure to single phthalates elicits reproductive toxicity in both sexes. Early aberrations include inhibition of gonadal sex determining gene expression and steroidogenesis, histopathology, and disturbed gametogenesis, leading later in life to dysfunctions in sperm production and oocyte reserves. Animal studies of in utero exposure to mixtures of phthalates, better mimicking human exposures, revealed analogous reproductive dysfunctions with the single compounds, but also indicated the combined actions and cumulative effects exerted by these chemicals. Further understanding the underlying mechanisms and the species differences in phthalate-induced reproductive toxicity will help to improve the risk assessment for human exposure to these toxicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Repouskou
- Basic Sciences Lab, Faculty of Dentistry, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
| | - Antonios Stamatakis
- Biology- Biochemistry Lab, Faculty of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
| | - Efthymia Kitraki
- Basic Sciences Lab, Faculty of Dentistry, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
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López-Rodríguez D, Aylwin CF, Delli V, Sevrin E, Campanile M, Martin M, Franssen D, Gérard A, Blacher S, Tirelli E, Noël A, Lomniczi A, Parent AS. Multi- and Transgenerational Outcomes of an Exposure to a Mixture of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) on Puberty and Maternal Behavior in the Female Rat. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2021; 129:87003. [PMID: 34383603 PMCID: PMC8360047 DOI: 10.1289/ehp8795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) on fertility and reproductive development represent a rising concern in modern societies. Although the neuroendocrine control of sexual maturation is a major target of EDCs, little is known about the potential role of the hypothalamus in puberty and ovulation disruption transmitted across generations. OBJECTIVES We hypothesized that developmental exposure to an environmentally relevant dose of EDC mixture could induce multi- and/or transgenerational alterations of sexual maturation and maternal care in female rats through epigenetic reprograming of the hypothalamus. We investigated the transmission of a disrupted reproductive phenotype via the maternal germline or via nongenomic mechanisms involving maternal care. METHODS Adult female Wistar rats were exposed prior to and during gestation and until the end of lactation to a mixture of the following 13 EDCs: di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP), di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), bisphenol A (BPA), vinclozolin, prochloraz, procymidone, linuron, epoxynaxole, dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene, octyl methoxynimmate, 4-methylbenzylidene camphor (4-MBC), butylparaben, and acetaminophen. Perinatally exposed offspring (F1) were mated with unexposed males to generate germ cell (F2) and transgenerationally exposed (F3 and F4) females. Sexual maturation, maternal behavior, and hypothalamic targets of exposure were studied across generations. RESULTS Germ cell (F2) and transgenerationally (F3) EDC-exposed females, but not F1, displayed delayed pubertal onset and altered folliculogenesis. We reported a transgenerational alteration of key hypothalamic genes controlling puberty and ovulation (Kiss1, Esr1, and Oxt), and we identified the hypothalamic polycomb group of epigenetic repressors as actors of this mechanism. Furthermore, we found a multigenerational reduction of maternal behavior (F1-F3) induced by a loss in hypothalamic dopaminergic signaling. Using a cross-fostering paradigm, we identified that the reduction in maternal phenotype was normalized in EDC-exposed pups raised by unexposed dams, but no reversal of the pubertal phenotype was achieved. DISCUSSION Rats developmentally exposed to an EDC mixture exhibited multi- and transgenerational disruption of sexual maturation and maternal care via hypothalamic epigenetic reprogramming. These results raise concerns about the impact of EDC mixtures on future generations. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP8795.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carlos Francisco Aylwin
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Portland, Oregon, USA
| | | | - Elena Sevrin
- GIGA Neurosciences, Neuroendocrinology Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Marzia Campanile
- GIGA Neurosciences, Neuroendocrinology Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Marion Martin
- Lille Neuroscience & Cognition (LilNCog), Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (Inserm), CHU Lille, Lille, France
| | - Delphine Franssen
- GIGA Neurosciences, Neuroendocrinology Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Arlette Gérard
- GIGA Neurosciences, Neuroendocrinology Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Silvia Blacher
- Tumor and Development Biology, GIGA-Cancer, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Ezio Tirelli
- Department of Psychology: Cognition and Behavior, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Agnès Noël
- Tumor and Development Biology, GIGA-Cancer, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Alejandro Lomniczi
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Anne-Simone Parent
- GIGA Neurosciences, Neuroendocrinology Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Liège, Liège, Belgium
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Tando Y, Hiura H, Takehara A, Ito-Matsuoka Y, Arima T, Matsui Y. Epi-mutations for spermatogenic defects by maternal exposure to di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate. eLife 2021; 10:70322. [PMID: 34319233 PMCID: PMC8318585 DOI: 10.7554/elife.70322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to environmental factors during fetal development may lead to epigenomic modifications in fetal germ cells, altering gene expression and promoting diseases in successive generations. In mouse, maternal exposure to di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is known to induce defects in spermatogenesis in successive generations, but the mechanism(s) of impaired spermatogenesis are unclear. Here, we showed that maternal DEHP exposure results in DNA hypermethylation of promoters of spermatogenesis-related genes in fetal testicular germ cells in F1 mice, and hypermethylation of Hist1h2ba, Sycp1, and Taf7l, which are crucial for spermatogenesis, persisted from fetal testicular cells to adult spermatogonia, resulting in the downregulation of expression of these genes. Forced methylation of these gene promoters silenced expression of these loci in a reporter assay. These results suggested that maternal DEHP exposure-induced hypermethylation of Hist1h2ba, Sycp1, and Taf7l results in downregulation of these genes in spermatogonia and subsequent defects in spermatogenesis, at least in the F1 generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukiko Tando
- Cell Resource Center for Biomedical Research, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan.,Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Hiura
- Department of Bioscience, Faculty of Life Sciences, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Asuka Takehara
- Cell Resource Center for Biomedical Research, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yumi Ito-Matsuoka
- Cell Resource Center for Biomedical Research, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Takahiro Arima
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yasuhisa Matsui
- Cell Resource Center for Biomedical Research, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan.,Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan.,Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
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Li J, Qu M, Wang M, Yue Y, Chen Z, Liu R, Bu Y, Li Y. Reproductive toxicity and underlying mechanisms of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate in nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. J Environ Sci (China) 2021; 105:1-10. [PMID: 34130826 DOI: 10.1016/j.jes.2020.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
DEHP (di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate) is an endocrine disruptor commonly found in plastic products that has been associated with reproduction alterations, but the effect of DEHP on toxicity is still widely unknown. Using DEHP concentrations of 10, 1, and 0.1 mg/L, we showed that DEHP reduced the reproductive capacity of Caenorhabditis elegans after 72 hr. of exposure. DEHP exposure reduced the reproductive capacity in terms of decreased brood sizes, egg hatchability (0.1, 1 and 10 mg/L), and egg-laying rate (1 and 10 mg/L), and increased numbers of fertilized eggs in the uterus (1 and 10 mg/L). DEHP also caused damage to gonad development. DEHP decreased the total number of germline cells, and decreased the relative area of the gonad arm of all exposure groups, with worms in the 1 mg/L DEHP exposure group having the minimum gonad arm area. Additionally, DEHP caused a significant concentration-dependent increase in the expression of unc-86. Autophagy and ROS contributed to the enhancement of DEHP toxicity in reducing reproductive capacity, and glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase were activated as the antioxidant defense in this study. Hence, we found that DEHP has a dual effect on nematodes. Higher concentration (10 mg/L) DEHP can inhibit the expression of autophagy genes (atg-18, atg-7, bec-1, lgg-1 and unc-51), and lower concentrations (0.1 and 1 mg/L) can promote the expression of autophagy genes. Our data highlight the potential environmental risk of DEHP in inducing reproductive toxicity toward the gonad development and reproductive capacity of environmental organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Li
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Man Qu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Mei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ying Yue
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zhaofang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control & Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Ran Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yuanqing Bu
- Nanjing Institute of Environmental Science, Key Laboratory of Pesticide Environmental Assessment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Nanjing 210042, China
| | - Yunhui Li
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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Prichystalova R, Caron-Beaudoin E, Richardson L, Dirkx E, Amadou A, Zavodna T, Cihak R, Cogliano V, Hynes J, Pelland-St-Pierre L, Verner MA, van Tongeren M, Ho V. An approach to classifying occupational exposures to endocrine disrupting chemicals by sex hormone function using an expert judgment process. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2021; 31:753-768. [PMID: 32704083 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-020-0253-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are exogenous substances that interfere with the endocrine system and cause adverse effects. We aimed to classify the effects of 24 known EDCs, prevalent in certain occupations, according to four modes of action (estrogenic, antiestrogenic, androgenic, and/or antiandrogenic). A literature search, stratified into four types of literature was conducted (namely: national and international agency reports; review articles; primary studies; ToxCastTM). The state of the evidence of each EDC on sex hormone function was summarized and reviewed by an expert panel. For each mode of action, the experts evaluated the likelihood of endocrine disruption in five categories: "No", "Unlikely", "Possibly", "Probably", and "Yes". Seven agents were categorized as "Yes," or having strong evidence for their effects on sex hormone function (antiandrogenic: lead, arsenic, butylbenzyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate, dicyclohexyl phthalate; estrogenic: nonylphenol, bisphenol A). Nine agents were categorized as "Probable," or having probable evidence (antiandrogenic: bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate, nonylphenol, toluene, bisphenol A, diisononyl phthalate; androgenic: cadmium; estrogenic: copper, cadmium and; anti-estrogenic: lead). Two agents (arsenic, polychlorinated biphenyls) had opposing conclusions supporting both "probably" estrogenic and antiestrogenic effects. This synthesis will allow researchers to evaluate the health effects of selected EDCs with an added level of precision related to the mode of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Prichystalova
- Faculty of Safety Engineering, Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - E Caron-Beaudoin
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - L Richardson
- Centre de recherche du CHUM (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - E Dirkx
- Centre de recherche du CHUM (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - A Amadou
- Département Prévention Cancer Environnement, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
- Inserm UA 08 Radiations: Défense, Santé, Environement, Lyon, France
| | - T Zavodna
- Institute of Experimental Medicine of the CAS, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - R Cihak
- Výzkumný ústav organických syntéz a.s., Centre for Ecology, Toxicology and Analytics, Rybitví, Czech Republic
| | - V Cogliano
- National Center for Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, US Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, USA
| | - J Hynes
- JH Tox Consulting, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - L Pelland-St-Pierre
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - M A Verner
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche en santé publique (CReSP), Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - M van Tongeren
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Division of Population Health, Health Services Research & Primary Care, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - V Ho
- Centre de recherche du CHUM (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.
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Fu X, Han H, Li Y, Xu B, Dai W, Zhang Y, Zhou F, Ma H, Pei X. Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate exposure induces female reproductive toxicity and alters the intestinal microbiota community structure and fecal metabolite profile in mice. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2021; 36:1226-1242. [PMID: 33665894 PMCID: PMC8251547 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is one of the most commonly used plasticizers, and it is widely applied in various plastic products. DEHP is an endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC) that has been shown to disrupt the function of reproductive system in females. Although many studies have shown that DEHP potentially causes female reproductive toxicity, including depletion of the primordial follicle and decreased sex hormone production, the specific mechanisms by which DEHP affects female reproduction remain unknown. In recent years, research focused on the intestinal flora has provided an idea to eliminate our confusion, and gut bacterial dysbiosis may contribute to female reproductive toxicity. In the present study, the feces of DEHP-exposed mice were collected and analyzed using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and untargeted global metabolite profiling of metabolomics. DEHP obviously causes reproductive toxicity, including the ovarian organ coefficient, estradiol level, histological features of the ovary and estrus. Furthermore, DEHP exposure alters the structure of the intestinal microbiota community and fecal metabolite profile in mice, suggesting that the reproductive toxicity may be caused by gut bacterial dysbiosis and altered metabolites, such as changes in the levels of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA). Additionally, it is well known that changes in gut microbiota and fecal metabolites cause inflammation and tissue oxidative stress, expectedly, we found oxidative stress in the ovary and systemic inflammation in DEHP exposed mice. Thus, based on our findings, DEHP exposure may cause gut bacterial dysbiosis and altered metabolite profiles, particularly SCFA profiles, leading to oxidative stress in the ovary and systemic inflammation to ultimately induce female reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xufeng Fu
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of EducationNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuanChina
| | - Hang Han
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of EducationNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuanChina
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco‐Environmental SciencesChinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Bo Xu
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of EducationNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuanChina
| | - Wenjie Dai
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of EducationNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuanChina
| | - Yaoxu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of EducationNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuanChina
| | - Feng Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of EducationNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuanChina
| | - Huiming Ma
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of EducationNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuanChina
| | - Xiuying Pei
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of EducationNingxia Medical UniversityYinchuanChina
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You HH, Song G. Review of endocrine disruptors on male and female reproductive systems. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2021; 244:109002. [PMID: 33610819 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2021.109002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Endocrine disruptors (EDs) interfere with different hormonal and metabolic processes and disrupt the development of organs and tissues, as well as the reproductive system. In toxicology research, various animal models have been utilized to compare and characterize the effects of EDs. We reviewed studies assessing the effect of ED exposure in humans, zebrafish, and mouse models and the adverse effects of EDs on male and female reproductive systems. This review outlines the distinctive morphological characteristics, as well as gene expression, factors, and mechanisms that are known to occur in response to EDs. In each animal model, disturbances in the reproductive system were associated with certain factors of apoptosis, the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, estrogen receptor pathway-induced meiotic disruption, and steroidogenesis. The effects of bisphenol A, phthalate, and 17α-ethinylestradiol have been investigated in animal models, each providing supporting outcomes and elaborating the key regulators of male and female reproductive systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyekyoung Hannah You
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Gwonhwa Song
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea.
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Long SE, Kahn LG, Trasande L, Jacobson MH. Urinary phthalate metabolites and alternatives and serum sex steroid hormones among pre- and postmenopausal women from NHANES, 2013-16. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 769:144560. [PMID: 33493905 PMCID: PMC7969426 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.144560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to phthalates is ubiquitous across the United States. While phthalates have anti-androgenic effects in men, there is little research on their potential impacts on sex hormone concentrations in women and that also take into account menopausal status. METHODS Cross-sectional data on urinary phthalate metabolites, serum sex hormones, and relevant covariates were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2013-14 and 2015-16. Women over the age of 20 who were not pregnant or breastfeeding and had not undergone oophorectomy were included (n = 698 premenopausal, n = 557 postmenopausal). Weighted multivariable linear and Tobit regression models stratified by menopausal status were fit with natural log-transformed phthalate concentrations and sex hormone outcomes adjusting for relevant covariates. RESULTS Phthalate metabolites were associated with differences in sex hormone concentrations among postmenopausal women only. Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) was associated with lower serum estradiol and bioavailable testosterone concentrations. Specifically, a doubling of DEHP concentrations was associated with 5.9% (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.2%, 11.3%) lower estradiol and 6.2% (95% CI: 0.0%, 12.1%) lower bioavailable testosterone concentrations. In contrast, 1,2-cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid di-isononyl ester (DINCH) was associated with higher free testosterone, bioavailable testosterone, and free androgen index. Finally, di-2-ethylhexyl terephthalate (DEHTP) was associated with a higher testosterone-to-estradiol ratio. None of these results retained statistical significance when adjusted for multiple comparisons. CONCLUSIONS DEHP, DINCH, and DEHTP were associated with differences in serum sex hormone concentrations among postmenopausal women, highlighting the need for further research into the safety of these chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara E Long
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Environmental Pediatrics, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Linda G Kahn
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Environmental Pediatrics, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Leonardo Trasande
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Environmental Pediatrics, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; Departments of Population Health and Environmental Medicine, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA; NYU Wagner School of Public Service, New York, NY, USA; NYU College of Global Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Melanie H Jacobson
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Environmental Pediatrics, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
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Association of phthalate exposure and endogenous hormones with self-reported sleep disruptions: results from the Midlife Women's Health Study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 27:1251-1264. [PMID: 33110041 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000001614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Follicle-stimulating hormone and estradiol (E2) have been associated with sleep in midlife women, however, few studies have examined the association of other hormones or environmental chemical exposure such as phthalates, with self-reported sleep quality. We assessed the relationship of self-reported sleep with hormones and phthalates. METHODS In total, 762 women (aged 45-54 y, 459 premenopausal, and 303 perimenopausal) from the Midlife Women's Health Study answered self-reported questions regarding the frequency of sleep disturbances, insomnia, and restless sleep. Serum E2, progesterone, testosterone, serum hormone binding globulin, free E2 index, free testosterone index, E2:progesterone, and E2:testosterone were measured. Summary measures of phthalate mixtures, including the phthalates from plastic sources (sumPLASTIC), personal care products (sumPCP), di-(2-ethyhexyl) phthalate (sumDEHP), anti-androgenic phthalates (sumAA), and all phthalate metabolites measured (sumALL), were calculated from urinary phthalate metabolites. Ordinal logistic regression was used to fit each outcome sleep measure with all hormones and summary phthalates. RESULTS Progesterone and testosterone were significantly negatively associated with the frequency of sleep disturbances and insomnia. Free testosterone index was also negatively associated with insomnia frequency. E2:progesterone was positively associated with frequency of sleep disturbances and restless sleep in self-reported nonsmokers. SumPCP and sumALL were significantly negatively associated with frequency of sleep disturbances, insomnia, and restless sleep. SumDEHP and sumPLASTIC were negatively associated with insomnia frequency. Further, the direction of association between phthalates and sleep appears to be dependent on the quartile of phthalate exposure. All significant associations between phthalates and sleep were in self-reported nonsmokers or former smokers. CONCLUSIONS Our study supports previous literature that hormones beyond follicle-stimulating hormone and E2 are associated with sleep disruptions in menopause. Further, we are among the first to show that phthalate exposure is associated with sleep disruptions in midlife women.
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Gore AC, Thompson LM, Bell M, Mennigen JA. Transgenerational effects of polychlorinated biphenyls: 2. Hypothalamic gene expression in rats†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:690-704. [PMID: 33824955 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) with well-established effects on reproduction and behavior in developmentally-exposed (F1) individuals. Because of evidence for transgenerational effects of EDCs on the neuroendocrine control of reproductive physiology, we tested the hypothesis that prenatal PCB exposure leads to unique hypothalamic gene-expression profiles in three generations. Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were treated on gestational days 16 and 18 with the PCB mixture Aroclor 1221 (A1221), vehicle (3% DMSO in sesame oil), or estradiol benzoate (EB, 50 μg/kg), the latter a positive control for estrogenic effects of A1221. Maternal- and paternal-lineage F2 and F3 generations were bred using untreated partners. The anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV) and arcuate nucleus (ARC), involved in the hypothalamic control of reproduction, were dissected from F1 to F3 females and males, RNA extracted, and gene expression measured in a qPCR array. We detected unique gene-expression profiles in each generation, which were sex- and lineage-specific. In the AVPV, treatment significantly changed 10, 25, and 11 transcripts in F1, F2, and F3 generations, whereas 10, 1, and 12 transcripts were changed in these generations in the ARC. In the F1 AVPV and ARC, most affected transcripts were decreased by A1221. In the F2 AVPV, most effects of A1221 were observed in females of the maternal lineage, whereas only Pomc expression changed in the F2 ARC (by EB). The F3 AVPV and ARC were mainly affected by EB. It is notable that results in one generation do not predict results in another, and that lineage was a major determinant in results. Thus, transient prenatal exposure of F1 rats to A1221 or EB can alter hypothalamic gene expression across three generations in a sex- and lineage-dependent manner, leading to the conclusion that the legacy of PCBs continues for generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea C Gore
- Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Lindsay M Thompson
- Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Mandee Bell
- Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Jan A Mennigen
- Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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50
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Hughes JR, Soto-Heras S, Muller CH, Miller DJ. Phthalates in Albumin from Human Serum: Implications for Assisted Reproductive Technology. F&S REVIEWS 2021; 2:160-168. [PMID: 36268475 PMCID: PMC9580017 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfnr.2020.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Albumin, a vital protein in cell culture systems, is derived from whole blood or blood products. The culture of human gametes and developing embryos for assisted reproduction (ART) uses albumin of human origin. Human serum albumin (HSA) is derived from expired blood obtained from blood banks. This blood has been stored in polyvinyl chloride bags made clear and flexible with di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP). But DEHP can leach from the bags into stored blood and co-fractionate with HSA during albumin isolation. DEHP and its metabolite mono-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP), are known endocrine disruptors that are reported to have negative effects when directly supplemented in media for IVF using gametes from a variety of animals. Therefore, the contamination of ART media with DEHP and MEHP through HSA supplementation may have effects on the outcomes of ART procedures. While the embryology laboratory is strictly monitored to prevent a wide variety of contamination, phthalate contamination of HSA has not been broadly examined. This review outlines the function of HSA in ART procedures and the production of HSA from whole blood. Finally, the review highlights the effects of acute phthalate exposures on gametes during in vitro procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R. Hughes
- Department of Animal Sciences and Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1207 West Gregory Drive, Urbana, IL 61801, Phone 217-333-3408
| | - Sandra Soto-Heras
- Department of Animal Sciences and Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1207 West Gregory Drive, Urbana, IL 61801, Phone 217-333-3408
| | | | - David J. Miller
- Department of Animal Sciences and Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1207 West Gregory Drive, Urbana, IL 61801, Phone 217-333-3408
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