Developmental exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls interferes with experience-dependent dendritic plasticity and ryanodine receptor expression in weanling rats

Developmental exposure to the Fox River PCB mixture modulates behavior in juvenile mice

Developmental exposures to PCBs are implicated in the etiology of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). This observation is concerning given the continued presence of PCBs in the human environment and the increasing incidence of NDDs. Previous studies reported that developmental exposure to legacy commercial PCB mixtures (Aroclors) or single PCB congeners found in Aroclors caused NDD-relevant behavioral phenotypes in animal models. However, the PCB congener profile in contemporary human samples is dissimilar to that of the legacy Aroclors, raising the question of whether human-relevant PCB mixtures similarly interfere with normal brain development. To address this question, we assessed the developmental neurotoxicity of the Fox River Mixture (FRM), which was designed to mimic the congener profile identified in fish from the PCB-contaminated Fox River that constitute a primary protein source in the diet of surrounding communities. Adult female C57BL/6 J mouse dams (8-10 weeks old) were exposed to vehicle (peanut oil) or FRM at 0.1, 1.0, or 6.0 mg/kg/d in their diet throughout gestation and lactation, and neurodevelopmental outcomes were assessed in their pups. Ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) and measures of general development were quantified at postnatal day (P) 7, while performance in the spontaneous alternation task and the 3-chambered social approach/social novelty task was assessed on P35. Triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) were quantified in serum collected from the dams when pups were weaned and from pups on P28 and P35. Developmental exposure to FRM did not alter pup weight or body temperature on P7, but USVs were significantly decreased in litters exposed to FRM at 0.1 or 6.0 mg/kg/d in the maternal diet. FRM also impaired male and female pups' performance in the social novelty task. Compared to sex-matched vehicles, significantly decreased social novelty was observed in male and female pups in the 0.1 and 6.0 mg/kg/d dose groups. FRM did not alter performance in the spontaneous alternation or social approach tasks. FRM increased serum T3 levels but decreased serum T4 levels in P28 male pups in the 1.0 and 6.0 mg/kg/d dose groups. In P35 female pups and dams, serum T3 levels decreased in the 6.0 mg/kg/d dose group while T4 levels were not altered. Collectively, these findings suggest that FRM interferes with the development of social communication and social novelty, but not memory, supporting the hypothesis that contemporary PCB exposures pose a risk to the developing brain. FRM had sex, age, and dose-dependent effects on serum thyroid hormone levels that overlapped but did not perfectly align with the FRM effects on behavioral outcomes. These observations suggest that changes in thyroid hormone levels are not likely the major factor underlying the behavioral deficits observed in FRM-exposed animals.

Distribution of 2,2',5,5'-Tetrachlorobiphenyl (PCB52) Metabolites in Adolescent Rats after Acute Nose-Only Inhalation Exposure

Inhalation of PCB-contaminated air is increasingly recognized as a route for PCB exposure. Because limited information about the disposition of PCBs following inhalation exposure is available, this study investigated the disposition of 2,2',5,5'-tetrachlorobiphenyl (PCB52) and its metabolites in rats following acute, nose-only inhalation of PCB52. Male and female Sprague-Dawley rats (50-58 days of age, 210 ± 27 g; n = 6) were exposed for 4 h by inhalation to approximately 14 or 23 μg/kg body weight of PCB52 using a nose-only exposure system. Sham animals (n = 6) were exposed to filtered lab air. Based on gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS), PCB52 was present in adipose, brain, intestinal content, lung, liver, and serum. 2,2',5,5'-Tetrachlorobiphenyl-4-ol (4-OH-PCB52) and one unknown monohydroxylated metabolite were detected in these compartments except for the brain. Liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) analysis identified several metabolites, including sulfated, methoxylated, and dechlorinated PCB52 metabolites. These metabolites were primarily found in the liver (7 metabolites), lung (9 metabolites), and serum (9 metabolites) due to the short exposure time. These results demonstrate for the first time that complex mixtures of sulfated, methoxylated, and dechlorinated PCB52 metabolites are formed in adolescent rats following PCB52 inhalation, laying the groundwork for future animal studies of the adverse effects of inhaled PCB52.

Predicted versus observed activity of PCB mixtures toward the ryanodine receptor

Non-dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (NDL PCBs) alter the activity of the ryanodine receptor (RyR), and this activity is linked to developmental neurotoxicity. Most work to date has focused on the activity of single congeners rather than relevant mixtures. The current study assessed the RyR activity of single congeners or binary, tertiary, and complex PCB mixtures. Observed mixture activity was then compared to the expected activity calculated using the concentration addition (CA) model or a RyR-specific neurotoxic equivalency scheme (rNEQ). The predictions of the CA model were consistent with the observed activity of binary mixtures at the lower portion of the concentration-response curve, supporting the additivity of RyR1 active PCBs. Findings also show that minimally active congeners can compete for the RyR1 binding site, and congeners that do not activate the RyR1 do not interfere with the activity of a full agonist. Complex PCB mixtures that mimic PCB profiles detected in indoor air, fish tissue, and the serum of mothers and children activated the RyR1 and displayed similar efficacy and potency regardless of varying congener profiles. Neither the CA model nor the rNEQ perfectly predicted the observed activity of complex mixtures, but predictions were often within one magnitude of change from the observed response. Importantly, PCB mixtures approximating profiles found in environmental samples or human serum displayed RyR1 activity at concentrations reported in published research. The work presented will aid in the development of risk assessment platforms for NDL PCBs and similar compounds toward RyR1 activation and related neurotoxicity.

The elderberry diet protection against intrahippocampal Aβ-induced memory dysfunction; the abrogated apoptosis and neuroinflammation

This study evaluates whether elderberry (EB) effectively decreases the inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain cells to reduce Aβ toxicity. In the Aβ + EB group, EB powder was added to rats' routine diet for eight consecutive weeks. Then, spatial memory, working memory, and long-term memory, were measured using the Morris water maze, T-maze, and passive avoidance test. Also, in this investigation immunohistopathology, distribution of hippocampal cells, and gene expression was carried out. Voronoi tessellation method was used to estimate the spatial distribution of the cells in the hippocampus. In addition to improving the memory functions of rats with Aβ toxicity, a reduction in astrogliosis and astrocytes process length and the number of branches and intersections distal to the soma was observed in their hippocampus compared to the control group. Further analysis indicated that the EB diet decreased the caspase-3 expression in the hippocampus of rats with Aβ toxicity. Also, EB protected hippocampal pyramidal neurons against Aβ toxicity and improved the spatial distribution of the hippocampal neurons. Moreover, EB decreased the expression of inflammatory and apoptotic genes. Overall, our study suggest that EB can be considered a potent modifier of astrocytes' reactivation and inflammatory responses.

Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) exposure in adult female mice can influence bladder contractility

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) greatly reduce quality of life. While LUTS etiology is not completely understood, it is plausible that environmental contaminants could play a role. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), are a group of persistent environmental toxicants frequently documented in animal and human tissues. PCBs are capable of influencing voiding function in mouse offspring exposed developmentally, however whether PCB exposure during adulthood can also influence voiding dynamics is unknown. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine whether PCB exposure in adult female mice can impact voiding function. As part of a larger study to generate developmentally exposed offspring, adult female C57Bl/6J mice were dosed orally with the MARBLES PCB mixture (0.1, 1, or 6 mg/kg/day) or vehicle control beginning two weeks before mating and throughout gestation and lactation (9 weeks). Adult dosed female dams then underwent void spot assay, uroflowmetry, and anesthetized cystometry to assess voiding function. Bladder contractility was assessed in ex vivo bladder bath assays, and bladders were collected for morphology and histology assessments. While voiding behavior endpoints were minimally impacted, alterations to bladder contractility dynamics were more pronounced. Adult female mice dosed with 1 mg/kg/d PCB showed an increase in urine spots 2-3 cm2 in size, increased bladder contractility in response to electrical field stimulation, and decreased bladder wall thickness compared to vehicle control. PCBs also altered contractile response to cholinergic agonist in a dose-dependent manner. Overall, these results indicate that exposure to PCBs in adult female mice is sufficient to produce changes in bladder physiology. These results also highlight the critical role of timing of exposure in influencing voiding function.

Polyurethane Foam Emission Samplers to Identify Sources of Airborne Polychlorinated Biphenyls from Glass-Block Windows and Other Room Surfaces in a Vermont School

We hypothesized that emissions of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from Aroclor mixtures present in building materials explain their concentrations in school air. Here, we report a study of airborne concentrations and gas-phase emissions in three elementary school rooms constructed in 1958. We collected airborne PCBs using polyurethane foam passive air samplers (PUF-PAS, n = 6) and PCB emissions from building materials using polyurethane foam passive emission samplers (PUF-PES, n = 17) placed over flat surfaces in school rooms, including vinyl tile floors, carpets, painted bricks, painted drywall, and glass-block windows. We analyzed all 209 congeners represented in 173 chromatographic separations and found that the congener distribution in PUF-PES strongly resembled the predicted diffusive release of gas-phase PCBs from a solid material containing Aroclor 1254. Concentrations of airborne total PCBs ranged from 38 to 180 ng m-3, a range confirmed by an independent laboratory in the same school. These levels exceed action levels for all aged children set by the State of Vermont and exceed guidance levels set by the U.S. EPA for children under age 3. Emissions of PCBs from the glass-block windows (30,000 ng m-2 d-1) greatly exceeded those of all other surfaces, which ranged from 35 to 2700 ng m-2 d-1. This study illustrates the benefit of the direct measurement of PCB emissions to identify the most important building remediation needed to reduce airborne PCB concentrations in schools.

Toward an understanding of the role of the exposome on fragile X phenotypes

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the leading known monogenetic cause of autism with an estimated 21-50% of FXS individuals meeting autism diagnostic criteria. A critical gap in medical care for persons with autism is an understanding of how environmental exposures and gene-environment interactions affect disease outcomes. Our research indicates more severe neurological and metabolic outcomes (seizures, autism, increased body weight) in mouse and human models of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) as a function of diet. Thus, early-life exposure to chemicals in the diet could cause or exacerbate disease outcomes. Herein, we review the effects of potential dietary toxins, i.e., soy phytoestrogens, glyphosate, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) in FXS and other autism models. The rationale is that potentially toxic chemicals in the diet, particularly infant formula, could contribute to the development and/or severity of ASD and that further study in this area has potential to improve ASD outcomes through dietary modification.

Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) Impact Prostatic Collagen Density and Bladder Volume in Young Adult Mice Exposed during in Utero and Lactational Development

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are persistent organic pollutants linked to deleterious health outcomes, including voiding dysfunction in developmentally exposed mice. Changes in prostate volume and/or extracellular matrix composition are associated with voiding dysfunction in men and animal models. Whether PCB-induced changes in voiding function in male mice occur in part via alterations to the prostate or an alternate mechanism is unclear. Therefore, we tested whether developmental exposure to the MARBLES PCB mixture altered prostate morphology in young adult offspring. C57Bl/6J female mice were dosed daily with the MARBLES PCB mixture at 0, 0.1, 1 or 6 mg/kg/d for two weeks prior to mating and through gestation and lactation, offspring were collected at 6 weeks of age. Ventral prostate mass was decreased in the 1 mg/kg/d PCB group compared to other PCB groups. There were no PCB-induced changes in prostate smooth muscle thickness, apoptosis, proliferation, or testes mass. PCBs impacted the prostate extracellular matrix; anterior prostate collagen density was decreased in the 1 mg/kg/d PCB group compared to all other groups. Normalized bladder volume was increased in male and female offspring in the 6 mg/kg/d PCB group compared to control. No change in water consumption, bladder mass or bladder smooth muscle thickness accompanied changes in bladder volume. Urine and serum creatinine concentrations were elevated but only in male mice. Together, these results suggest that developmental exposure to PCBs can influence prostate wet weight and prostate/bladder morphology, but PCBs do not promote prostate enlargement. Whether these changes persist throughout adult life and how they contribute to voiding function in animal models and humans is of future interest.

Gene×environment interactions in autism spectrum disorders

There is credible evidence that environmental factors influence individual risk and/or severity of autism spectrum disorders (hereafter referred to as autism). While it is likely that environmental chemicals contribute to the etiology of autism via multiple mechanisms, identifying specific environmental factors that confer risk for autism and understanding how they contribute to the etiology of autism has been challenging, in part because the influence of environmental chemicals likely varies depending on the genetic substrate of the exposed individual. Current research efforts are focused on elucidating the mechanisms by which environmental chemicals interact with autism genetic susceptibilities to adversely impact neurodevelopment. The goal is to not only generate insights regarding the pathophysiology of autism, but also inform the development of screening platforms to identify specific environmental factors and gene×environment (G×E) interactions that modify autism risk. Data from such studies are needed to support development of intervention strategies for mitigating the burden of this neurodevelopmental condition on individuals, their families and society. In this review, we discuss environmental chemicals identified as putative autism risk factors and proposed mechanisms by which G×E interactions influence autism risk and/or severity using polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) as an example.

Ryanodine receptor-active non-dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls cause neurobehavioral deficits in larval zebrafish

Although their production was banned in the United States in 1977, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) continue to pose significant risks to the developing nervous system. Perinatal exposure to PCBs is associated with increased risk of neuropsychiatric disorders, perhaps due to altered patterns of dendritic arborization of central neurons. Non-dioxin-like (NDL) PCB congeners enhance dendritic arborization of developing mammalian neurons via sensitization of ryanodine receptors (RYR). Structure-activity relationships (SAR) of RYR sensitization by PCBs have been demonstrated using mammalian and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) tissue homogenates. The purpose of this study is to determine whether this SAR translates to developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) of PCBs in vivo, a question that has yet to be tested. To address this gap, we leveraged a zebrafish model to evaluate the developmental neurotoxicity potential of PCBs 28, 66, 84, 95, 138, and 153, congeners previously shown to have broadly different potencies towards sensitizing RYR. We first confirmed that these PCB congeners exhibited differing potency in sensitizing RYR in zebrafish muscle ranging from negligible (PCB 66) to moderate (PCB 153) to high (PCB 95) RYR activity. Next, enzymatically dechorionated embryos were statically exposed to varying concentrations (0.1-10 μM) of each PCB congener from 6 h post-fertilization to 5 days post-fertilization (dpf). Embryos were observed daily using stereomicroscopy to assess mortality and gross malformations and photomotor behavior was assessed in larval zebrafish at 3, 4, and 5 dpf. The body burden of each PCB was measured by gas chromatography. The key findings are: 1) None of these PCBs caused death or overt teratology at the concentrations tested; 2) A subset of these PCB congeners altered photomotor behavior in larval zebrafish and the SAR for PCB behavioral effects mirrored the SAR for RYR sensitization; and 3) Quantification of PCB levels in larval zebrafish ruled out the possibility that congener-specific effects on behavior were due to differential uptake of PCB congeners. Collectively, the findings from this study provide in vivo evidence in support of the hypothesis that RYR sensitization contributes to the DNT of PCBs.

Assessment of Polychlorinated Biphenyls and Their Hydroxylated Metabolites in Postmortem Human Brain Samples: Age and Brain Region Differences

Exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and their hydroxylated metabolites (OH-PCBs) has been implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders. However, the distribution of PCBs and OH-PCBs in the human brain has not been characterized. This study investigated the age-, sex-, and brain region-specific distribution of all 209 PCBs using gaschromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) in neonatal (N = 7) and adult (N = 7) postmortem brain samples. OH-PCB analyses were performed by GC-MS/MS (as methylated derivatives) and, in a subset of samples, by nontarget liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry (Nt-LCMS). Fourteen higher chlorinated PCB congeners were observed with a detection frequency >50%. Six lower chlorinated PCBs were detected with a detection frequency >10%. Higher chlorinated PCBs were observed with higher levels in samples from adult versus younger donors. PCB congener profiles from adult donors showed more similarities across brain regions and donors than younger donors. We also assess the potential neurotoxicity of the PCB residues in the human brain with neurotoxic equivalency (NEQ) approaches. The median ΣNEQs, calculated for the PCB homologues, were 40-fold higher in older versus younger donors. Importantly, lower chlorinated PCBs made considerable contributions to the neurotoxic potential of PCB residues in some donors. OH-PCBs were identified for the first time in a small number of human brain samples by GC-MS/MS and Nt-LCMS analyses, and all contained four or fewer chlorine.

Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) in the Environment: Occupational and Exposure Events, Effects on Human Health and Fertility

In the last decade or so, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) garnered renewed attention in the scientific community due to new evidence pointing at their continued presence in the environment and workplaces and the potential human risks related to their presence. PCBs move from the environment to humans through different routes; the dominant pathway is the ingestion of contaminated foods (fish, seafood and dairy products), followed by inhalation (both indoor and outdoor air), and, to a lesser extent, dust ingestion and dermal contact. Numerous studies reported the environmental and occupational exposure to these pollutants, deriving from building materials (flame-retardants, plasticizers, paints, caulking compounds, sealants, fluorescent light ballasts, etc.) and electrical equipment. The highest PCBs contaminations were detected in e-waste recycling sites, suggesting the need for the implementation of remediation strategies of such polluted areas to safeguard the health of workers and local populations. Furthermore, a significant correlation between PCB exposure and increased blood PCB concentrations was observed in people working in PCB-contaminated workplaces. Several epidemiological studies suggest that environmental and occupational exposure to high concentrations of PCBs is associated with different health outcomes, such as neuropsychological and neurobehavioral deficits, dementia, immune system dysfunctions, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. In addition, recent studies indicate that PCBs bioaccumulation can reduce fertility, with harmful effects on the reproductive system that can be passed to offspring. In the near future, further studies are needed to assess the real effects of PCBs exposure at low concentrations for prolonged exposure in workplaces and specific indoor environments.

Path Analysis Reveals the Direct Effect of PCB28 Exposure on Cognitive Dysfunction in Older Chinese Females

Background: Research indicates that exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) can cause neurobehavioral impairments in neonates and adults, but the way specific PCBs’ congeners impact cognition functions at a low exposure level in a real-life co-exposure system remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the association of PCBs burden with cognition function among elderly adults. Methods: Based on the Weitang Geriatric Diseases study (2014−2015), the current study measured the plasma concentrations of six indicator-PCBs by GC-MS/MS and assessed the cognitive dysfunction (CoD) via an Abbreviated Mental Test in 266 participants (ages 61−90). Sequential logistic regression was used to analyze the effects of PCBs on cognition functions. Female participants aged less than or equal to 80 years were selected, and path analysis was used to determine the direct or indirect impacts of co-exposure PCBs on CoD by structural equation modeling. Results: After sequential adjustments to potential confounding factors and correction by the Bonferroni, no statistically significant correlation between PCBs exposure and CoD was found in participants (p > 0.05). However, in the co-exposure system, after controlling for co-exposures and confounders, exposure to PCB28 had a direct effect on CoD in females aged between 61 and 80, with a factor load of 0.670. Conclusions: After adjusting for the co-exposures and confounders, exposure to PCB28 can directly increase the risk of cognitive impairment in older Chinese females.

The disposition of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) differs between germ-free and conventional mice

The disposition of toxicants, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), in germ-free (GF) vs. conventional (CV) mice has received little attention to date. Here, we investigate PCB levels in three-month-old female CV and GF mice exposed orally daily for 3 days to 0, 6, or 30 mg/kg body weight of the Fox River Mixture (FRM), an environmental PCB mixture. We euthanized animals 24 h after the final dose. PCB profiles in tissues differed from the FRM profile but were similar in tissues across all 4 PCB exposure groups. PCB levels in CV but not GF mice followed the difference in PCB dose. Importantly, PCB levels were higher in CV than GF mice exposed to the same dose. Hepatic cytochrome P450 enzyme or lipid levels did not explain these trends in PCB tissue levels. Thus, toxicity studies with CV and GF animals need to assess the toxicokinetics of the toxicant investigated. CAPSULE: PCB levels are typically higher in conventional than germ-free mice exposed to the same dose of PCBs.

Developmental polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) exposure alters voiding physiology in young adult male and female mice

The impact of developmental exposure to environmental chemicals on lower urinary tract function is not well understood, despite the fact that these chemicals could contribute to etiologically complex lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are environmental toxicants known to be detrimental to the central nervous system, but their impact on voiding function in mouse models is not known. Therefore, we test whether developmental exposure to PCBs is capable of altering voiding physiology in young adult mice. C57Bl/6J female mice received a daily oral dose of the MARBLES PCB mixture for two weeks prior to mating and through gestation and lactation. The mixture mimics the profile of PCBs found in a contemporary population of pregnant women. Voiding function was then tested in young adult offspring using void spot assay, uroflowmetry and anesthetized cystometry. PCB effects were sex and dose dependent. Overall, PCBs led to increases in small size urine spots in both sexes with males producing more drop-like voids and greater peak pressure during a voiding cycle while females displayed decreases in void duration and intervoid interval. Together, these results indicate that developmental exposure to PCBs are capable of altering voiding physiology in young adult mice. Further work to identify the underlying mechanisms driving these changes may help develop more effective preventative or therapeutic strategies for LUTS.

Associations between developmental exposure to environmental contaminants and spatial navigation in late adolescence

Inuit communities in Northern Quebec (Canada) are exposed to environmental contaminants, particularly to mercury, lead and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Previous studies reported adverse associations between these neurotoxicants and memory performance. Here we aimed to determine the associations of pre- and postnatal exposures to mercury, lead and PCB-153 on spatial navigation memory in 212 Inuit adolescents (mean age = 18.5 years) using a computer task which requires learning the location of a hidden platform based on allocentric spatial representation. Contaminant concentrations were measured in cord blood at birth and blood samples at 11 years of age and at time of testing. Multivariate regression models showed that adolescent mercury and prenatal PCB-153 exposures were associated with poorer spatial learning, whereas current exposure to PCB-153 was associated with altered spatial memory retrieval at the probe test trial. These findings suggest that contaminants might be linked to different aspects of spatial navigation processing at different stages.

Dose-dependent toxicological effects in rats following a 90-day dietary exposure to PCB-156 include retinoid disruption

The toxicity of PCB-156 (2,3,3',4,4',5-hexachlorobiphenyl) was investigated in rats following subchronic dietary exposure. Groups of 10 male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were administered PCB-156 in the diet at 0, 0.01, 0.1, 1 or 10 ppm for 90 days. Dose-dependent increases were detected for the liver, lung and kidney weights, as well as for the liver EROD, PROD and UDPGT enzyme activities and liver uroporphyrin concentration. Dose-dependent decreases were observed in final body weight, body weight gain, and thymus weight. Apolar retinoid concentrations were decreased in the liver and lungs and increased in the kidneys. Histopathological examination of the liver, thyroid, and thymus showed mild to moderate dose-related changes. A LOAEL of 0.01 ppm was established, based on reduced apolar liver retinoid concentration. Benchmark dose-modelling corroborated the sensitivity of liver retinoid endpoints. The lower confidence limits (BMDL) for a 5% decrease in apolar liver retinoid concentrations were 0.0009 and 0.0007 ppm, respectively, in males and females, corresponding to a daily dose of 0.06 μg PCB-156 per kg body weight. Organizing dose-response data for the individual hepatic endpoints along the PCB-156 dosing scale revealed a sequence of events compatible with a causal link between depletion of apolar retinoids and the other liver biochemistry and pathology findings. Taken together, data suggest that the retinoid endpoints should be further evaluated for a causal relationship to PCB-induced liver toxicity and that retinoid system endpoints are identified and characterized to support health risk assessment in the emerging research fields of endocrine disruption and mixture toxicology.

Sex and Genotype Modulate the Dendritic Effects of Developmental Exposure to a Human-Relevant Polychlorinated Biphenyls Mixture in the Juvenile Mouse

While many neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are thought to result from interactions between environmental and genetic risk factors, the identification of specific gene-environment interactions that influence NDD risk remains a critical data gap. We tested the hypothesis that polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) interact with human mutations that alter the fidelity of neuronal Ca²⁺ signaling to confer NDD risk. To test this, we used three transgenic mouse lines that expressed human mutations known to alter Ca²⁺ signals in neurons: (1) gain-of-function mutation in ryanodine receptor-1 (T4826I-RYR1); (2) CGG-repeat expansion in the 5′ non-coding portion of the fragile X mental retardation gene 1 (FMR1); and (3) a double mutant (DM) that expressed both mutations. Transgenic and wildtype (WT) mice were exposed throughout gestation and lactation to the MARBLES PCB mix at 0.1, 1, or 6 mg/kg in the maternal diet. The MARBLES mix simulates the relative proportions of the twelve most abundant PCB congeners found in serum from pregnant women at increased risk for having a child with an NDD. Using Golgi staining, the effect of developmental PCB exposure on dendritic arborization of pyramidal neurons in the CA1 hippocampus and somatosensory cortex of male and female WT mice was compared to pyramidal neurons from transgenic mice. A multilevel linear mixed-effects model identified a main effect of dose driven by increased dendritic arborization of cortical neurons in the 1 mg/kg PCB dose group. Subsequent analyses with genotypes indicated that the MARBLES PCB mixture had no effect on the dendritic arborization of hippocampal neurons in WT mice of either sex, but significantly increased dendritic arborization of cortical neurons of WT males in the 6 mg/kg PCB dose group. Transgene expression increased sensitivity to the impact of developmental PCB exposure on dendritic arborization in a sex-, and brain region-dependent manner. In conclusion, developmental exposure to PCBs present in the gestational environment of at-risk humans interfered with normal dendritic morphogenesis in the developing mouse brain in a sex-, genotype- and brain region-dependent manner. Overall, these observations provide proof-of-principle evidence that PCBs interact with heritable mutations to modulate a neurodevelopmental outcome of relevance to NDDs.

Developmental Exposure to a Human-Relevant Polychlorinated Biphenyl Mixture Causes Behavioral Phenotypes That Vary by Sex and Genotype in Juvenile Mice Expressing Human Mutations That Modulate Neuronal Calcium

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are putative environmental risks for neurodevelopmental disorders. Here, we tested two hypotheses: (1) developmental exposure to a human-relevant PCB mixture causes behavioral phenotypes relevant to neurodevelopmental disorders; and (2) expression of human mutations that dysregulate neuronal Ca2+ homeostasis influence sensitivity to behavioral effects of developmental PCB exposures. To test these hypotheses, we used mice that expressed a gain-of-function mutation (T4826I) in ryanodine receptor 1 (RYR1), the X-linked fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) CGG repeat expansion or both mutations (double mutant; DM). Transgenic mice and wildtype (WT) mice were exposed to the MARBLES PCB mix at 0, 0.1, 1, and 6 mg/kg/day in the maternal diet throughout gestation and lactation. The MARBLES PCB mix simulates the relative proportions of the 12 most abundant PCB congeners found in the serum of pregnant women at increased risk for having a child with a neurodevelopmental disorder. We assessed ultrasonic vocalizations at postnatal day 7 (P7), spontaneous repetitive behaviors at P25-P30, and sociability at P27-P32. Developmental PCB exposure reduced ultrasonic vocalizations in WT litters in all dose groups, but had no effect on ultrasonic vocalizations in transgenic litters. Developmental PCB exposure significantly increased self-grooming and decreased sociability in WT males in the 0.1 mg/kg dose group, but had no effect on WT females in any dose group. Genotype alone influenced ultrasonic vocalizations, self-grooming and to a lesser extent sociability. Genotype alone also influenced effects of PCBs on sociability. PCB levels in the brain tissue of pups increased in a dose-dependent manner, but within any dose group did not differ between genotypes. In summary, developmental PCB exposure phenocopied social behavior phenotypes observed in mice expressing human mutations that modify intracellular Ca2+ dynamics, and expression of these mutations alleviated PCB effects on ultrasonic vocalizations and repetitive behavior, and modified the dose-response relationships and sex-dependent effects of PCB effects on social behavior. These findings suggest that: (1) developmental PCB exposure causes behavioral phenotypes that vary by sex and genotype; and (2) sex-specific responses to environmental factors may contribute to sex biases in the prevalence and/or severity of neurodevelopmental disorders.

Developmental exposure to non-dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls promotes sensory deficits and disrupts dopaminergic and GABAergic signaling in zebrafish

The most abundant polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners found in the environment and in humans are neurotoxic. This is of particular concern for early life stages because the exposure of the more vulnerable developing nervous system to neurotoxic chemicals can result in neurobehavioral disorders. In this study, we uncover currently unknown links between PCB target mechanisms and neurobehavioral deficits using zebrafish as a vertebrate model. We investigated the effects of the abundant non-dioxin-like (NDL) congener PCB153 on neuronal morphology and synaptic transmission linked to the proper execution of a sensorimotor response. Zebrafish that were exposed during development to concentrations similar to those found in human cord blood and PCB contaminated sites showed a delay in startle response. Morphological and biochemical data demonstrate that even though PCB153-induced swelling of afferent sensory neurons, the disruption of dopaminergic and GABAergic signaling appears to contribute to PCB-induced motor deficits. A similar delay was observed for other NDL congeners but not for the potent dioxin-like congener PCB126. The effects on important and broadly conserved signaling mechanisms in vertebrates suggest that NDL PCBs may contribute to neurodevelopmental abnormalities in humans and increased selection pressures in vertebrate wildlife.

The Bladder Is a Novel Target of Developmental Polychlorinated Biphenyl Exposure Linked to Increased Inflammatory Cells in the Bladder of Young Mice

Bladder inflammation is associated with several lower urinary tract symptoms that greatly reduce quality of life, yet contributing factors are not completely understood. Environmental chemicals are plausible mediators of inflammatory reactions within the bladder. Here, we examine whether developmental exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) leads to changes in immune cells within the bladder of young mice. Female mice were exposed to an environmentally relevant mixture of PCBs through gestation and lactation, and bladders were collected from offspring at postnatal day (P) 28-31. We identify several dose- and sex-dependent PCB effects in the bladder. The lowest concentration of PCB (0.1 mg/kg/d) increased CD45+ hematolymphoid immune cells in both sexes. While PCBs had no effect on CD79b+ B cells or CD3+ T cells, PCBs (0.1 mg/kg/d) did increase F4/80+ macrophages particularly in female bladder. Collagen density was also examined to determine whether inflammatory events coincide with changes in the stromal extracellular matrix. PCBs (0.1 mg/kg/d) decreased collagen density in female bladder compared to control. PCBs also increased the number of cells undergoing cell division predominantly in male bladder. These results implicate perturbations to the immune system in relation to PCB effects on the bladder. Future study to define the underlying mechanisms could help understand how environmental factors can be risk factors for lower urinary tract symptoms.

Enantioselective Toxicity Effects of 2,2',3,5',6-Pentachloro Biphenyl (PCB-95) on Developing Brains in Zebrafish Larvae

2,2',3,5',6-Pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB-95) is an environmentally relevant, chiral PCB congener that has been shown to act as a developmental neurotoxicant (DNT), targeting the developing brain. However, understanding enantioselective toxic effects for PCB-95 is in its infancy. To investigate these toxic effects, zebrafish embryos were exposed to racemates and enantiomers of PCB-95. Brain areas and pathology were studied. Results indicated dose dependent reduction of brain sizes with increased brain cell death in racemic and R_a (-)-PCB-95 treated groups. To provide a mechanistic basis for the observed neurotoxicity, gene expressions of antioxidant proteins such as Cu/Zn-SOD, Mn-SOD, and GPx were analysed. Antioxidant genes were up regulated with the PCB-95 exposure and racemic PCB-95 showed higher toxicity. These results suggest that the exposure to PCB-95 contributed to developmental neurotoxicity in early developing zebrafish larvae and may confer risks associated with enantioselective enrichment of PCB-95 in the environment.

Gut Microbiome Critically Impacts PCB-induced Changes in Metabolic Fingerprints and the Hepatic Transcriptome in Mice

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are ubiquitously detected and have been linked to metabolic diseases. Gut microbiome is recognized as a critical regulator of disease susceptibility; however, little is known how PCBs and gut microbiome interact to modulate hepatic xenobiotic and intermediary metabolism. We hypothesized the gut microbiome regulates PCB-mediated changes in the metabolic fingerprints and hepatic transcriptome. Ninety-day-old female conventional and germ-free mice were orally exposed to the Fox River Mixture (synthetic PCB mixture, 6 or 30 mg/kg) or corn oil (vehicle control, 10 ml/kg), once daily for 3 consecutive days. RNA-seq was conducted in liver, and endogenous metabolites were measured in liver and serum by LC-MS. Prototypical target genes of aryl hydrocarbon receptor, pregnane X receptor, and constitutive androstane receptor were more readily upregulated by PCBs in conventional conditions, indicating PCBs, to the hepatic transcriptome, act partly through the gut microbiome. In a gut microbiome-dependent manner, xenobiotic, and steroid metabolism pathways were upregulated, whereas response to misfolded proteins-related pathways was downregulated by PCBs. At the high PCB dose, NADP, and arginine appear to interact with drug-metabolizing enzymes (ie, Cyp1-3 family), which are highly correlated with Ruminiclostridium and Roseburia, providing a novel explanation of gut-liver interaction from PCB-exposure. Utilizing the Library of Integrated Network-based Cellular Signatures L1000 database, therapeutics targeting anti-inflammatory and endoplasmic reticulum stress pathways are predicted to be remedies that can mitigate PCB toxicity. Our findings demonstrate that habitation of the gut microbiota drives PCB-mediated hepatic responses. Our study adds knowledge of physiological response differences from PCB exposure and considerations for further investigations for gut microbiome-dependent therapeutics.

Perinatal effects of persistent organic pollutants on thyroid hormone concentration in placenta and breastmilk

Thyroid hormones (TH) are known to play a critical role in regulating many biological processes including growth and development, energy homeostasis, thermogenesis, lipolysis and metabolism of cholesterol. Severe TH deficiency especially during fetal development results in cretinism, but can also lead to an imbalance in metabolism with, among others, an alteration in body weight composition. Over the past two decades, increasing evidence has shown that certain persistent organic pollutants (POP) can interfere with the endocrine system. These POP referred to as "endocrine disrupting chemicals" are widely present in the environment and populations are exposed globally. Moreover, epidemiological studies have shown that a particularly sensitive period is the pre- and postnatal time. Indeed, perinatal exposure to such chemicals could lead to the onset diseases in later life. It is known, that, maternal thyroid hormones are transported by the placenta to the fetus from 6 weeks of gestation and it seems that during the first trimester, and part of the second, the fetus is entirely dependent on maternal TH supply for its development. Interferences in the TH-network as a consequence of the exposure to such pollutants could cause variations in TH concentration. Only small changes in maternal thyroid hormone levels in early stages of pregnancy can influence fetal neurological and cardiovascular development, as well as according to recent studies, have effect on childhood body composition. With this review, we will report the most recent and important studies concerning the association between thyroid hormone concentration and POP levels measured during the perinatal period. We will mostly focus on the data recently reported on placenta and breastmilk as main sources for understanding the potential consequences of exposure. The possible link between exposure to pollutants, TH dysregulation and possible adverse outcome will also be briefly discussed. From our literature search, several studies support the hypothesis that pre- and postnatal exposure to different pollutants might play a role in causing variation in thyroid hormone concentration. However, few research papers have so far studied the relationship linking exposure to pollutants, TH concentration and possible health consequences. Therefore, this review highlights the need for further research in this direction.

Persistent organic pollutants at the synapse: Shared phenotypes and converging mechanisms of developmental neurotoxicity

The developing nervous system is sensitive to environmental and physiological perturbations in part due to its protracted period of prenatal and postnatal development. Epidemiological and experimental studies link developmental exposures to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) including polychlorinated biphenyls, polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, and benzo(a)pyrene to increased risk for neurodevelopmental disorders in children. Mechanistic studies reveal that many of the complex cellular processes that occur during sensitive periods of rapid brain development are cellular targets for developmental neurotoxicants. One area of research interest has focused on synapse formation and plasticity, processes that involve the growth and retraction of dendrites and dendritic spines. For each chemical discussed in this review, we summarize the morphological and electrophysiological data that provide evidence that developmental POP exposure produces long-lasting effects on dendritic morphology, spine formation, glutamatergic and GABAergic signaling systems, and synaptic transmission. We also discuss shared intracellular mechanisms, with a focus on calcium and thyroid hormone homeostasis, by which these chemicals act to modify synapses. We conclude our review highlighting research gaps that merit consideration when characterizing synaptic pathology elicited by chemical exposure. These gaps include low-dose and nonmonotonic dose-response effects, the temporal relationship between dendritic growth, spine formation, and synaptic activity, excitation-inhibition balance, hormonal effects, and the need for more studies in females to identify sex differences. By identifying converging pathological mechanisms elicited by POP exposure at the synapse, we can define future research directions that will advance our understanding of these chemicals on synapse structure and function.

Effects of an environmentally relevant PCB-mixture on immune function, clinical chemistry, and thyroid hormone levels in adult female B6C3F1 mice

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) have been assessed for immunotoxicity; however, humans and wildlife are exposed to multiple PCBs environmentally. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the effects of a complex 37 PCB congener mixture identified in blubber specific to dolphins residing in the estuarine waters of Charleston, South Carolina. Immunotoxicity was determined in adult female B₆C₃F₁ mice by assessing lymphocyte proliferation, splenic and thymic immunophenotypes, and IgM production. Mice were exposed via oral gavage to the PCB-mixture (0, 1.8, 3.6, 7.1, or 14.3 mg/kg/day) for 28 days to yield a targeted total administered dose (TAD) 0, 50, 100, 200, or 400 mg/kg. Significant increased liver weight occurred at the highest treatment. IgM production was suppressed compared to control for all treatments. Numbers of thymic CD4+/CD8+, CD4-/CD8-, and CD4+/CD8- cells were not altered, but numbers of thymic CD4-/CD8+ cells were significantly increased in the highest treatment. Lymphocyte proliferation was not markedly affected by any treatment. The numbers of splenic CD4/CD8 T-cells or MHCII+ cells were not significantly changed. Humoral immunity using the plaque-forming cell assay for determining the specific IgM antibody-forming cell response appeared to be the most sensitive endpoint affected. As the lowest concentration tested resulted in decreased IgM production and total and free thyroxine (T₄) serum levels a NOAEL was not identified. The calculated ED₅₀ for suppression of IgM production was 2.4 mg/kg/day.

Disposition of PCB 11 in Mice Following Acute Oral Exposure

PCB 11 (3,3'-dichloro-biphenyl) is an emerging environmental contaminant that represents a public health concern. Here, we investigated the distribution of PCB 11 and its metabolites in mice exposed orally to PCB 11. PCB 11 tissue levels followed the rank order adipose > lung ∼ muscle > liver > brain > blood 4 h after PCB 11 exposure, which varied from the rank order predicted with a composition-based model. We detected hydroxylated and sulfate metabolites in the liver and sulfate and glucuronide metabolites in serum. These findings lay the groundwork for future toxicity studies with PCB 11.

Non-dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyl neurotoxic equivalents found in environmental and human samples

Non-dioxin like polychlorinated biphenyls (NDL PCB) are recognized neurotoxicants with implications on altered neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration in exposed organisms. NDL PCB neurotoxic relative potency schemes have been developed for a single mechanism, namely activity toward the ryanodine receptor (RyR), or combined mechanisms including, but not limited to, alterations of RyR and dopaminergic pathways. We compared the applicability of the two neurotoxic equivalency (NEQ) schemes and applied each scheme to PCB mixtures found in environmental and human serum samples. A multiple mechanistic NEQ predicts higher neurotoxic exposure concentrations as compared to a scheme based on the RyR alone. Predictions based on PCB ortho categorization, versus homologue categorization, lead to a higher prediction of neurotoxic exposure concentrations, especially for the mMOA. The application of the NEQ schemes to PCB concentration data suggests that PCBs found in fish from US lakes represent a considerable NEQ exposure to fish consuming individuals, that indoor air of schools contained high NEQ concentrations representing an exposure concern when inhaled by children, and that levels already detected in the serum of adults and children may contribute to neurotoxicity. With further validation and in vivo exposure data the NEQ scheme would help provide a more inclusive measure of risk presented by PCB mixtures.

Exposure to human relevant mixtures of halogenated persistent organic pollutants (POPs) alters neurodevelopmental processes in human neural stem cells undergoing differentiation

Halogenated persistent organic pollutants (POPs) like perfluorinated alkylated substances (PFASs), brominated flame retardants (BFRs), organochlorine pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are known to cause cancer, immunotoxicity, neurotoxicity and interfere with reproduction and development. Concerns have been raised about the impact of POPs upon brain development and possibly neurodevelopmental disorders. The developing brain is a particularly vulnerable organ due to dynamic and complex neurodevelopmental processes occurring early in life. However, very few studies have reported on the effects of POP mixtures at human relevant exposures, and their impact on key neurodevelopmental processes using human in vitro test systems. Aiming to reduce this knowledge gap, we exposed mixed neuronal/glial cultures differentiated from neural stem cells (NSCs) derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) to reconstructed mixtures of 29 different POPs using concentrations comparable to Scandinavian human blood levels. Effects of the POP mixtures on neuronal proliferation, differentiation and synaptogenesis were evaluated using in vitro assays anchored to common key events identified in the existing developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) adverse outcome pathways (AOPs). The present study showed that mixtures of POPs (in particular brominated and chlorinated compounds) at human relevant concentrations increased proliferation of NSCs and decreased synapse number. Based on a mathematical modelling, synaptogenesis and neurite outgrowth seem to be the most sensitive DNT in vitro endpoints. Our results indicate that prenatal exposure to POPs may affect human brain development, potentially contributing to recently observed learning and memory deficits in children.

Developmental PCB Exposure Disrupts Synaptic Transmission and Connectivity in the Rat Auditory Cortex, Independent of Its Effects on Peripheral Hearing Threshold

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are enduring environmental toxicants and exposure is associated with neurodevelopmental deficits. The auditory system appears particularly sensitive, as previous work has shown that developmental PCB exposure causes both hearing loss and gross disruptions in the organization of the rat auditory cortex. However, the mechanisms underlying PCB-induced changes are not known, nor is it known whether the central effects of PCBs are a consequence of peripheral hearing loss. Here, we study changes in both peripheral and central auditory function in rats with developmental PCB exposure using a combination of optical and electrophysiological approaches. Female rats were exposed to an environmental PCB mixture in utero and until weaning. At adulthood, auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) were measured, and synaptic currents were recorded in slices from auditory cortex layer 2/3 neurons. Spontaneous IPSCs (sIPSCs) and miniature IPSCs (mIPSCs) were more frequent in PCB-exposed rats compared with controls and the normal relationship between IPSC parameters and peripheral hearing was eliminated in PCB-exposed rats. No changes in spontaneous EPSCs were found. Conversely, when synaptic currents were evoked by laser photostimulation of caged-glutamate, PCB exposure did not affect evoked inhibitory transmission, but increased the total excitatory charge, the number and distance of sites that evoke a significant response. Together, these findings indicate that early developmental exposure to PCBs causes long-lasting changes in both inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmission in the auditory cortex that are independent of peripheral hearing changes, suggesting the effects are because of the direct impact of PCBs on the developing auditory cortex.

In utero and lactational PCB exposure drives anatomic changes in the juvenile mouse bladder

Bladder dysfunction, including incontinence, difficulty emptying the bladder, or urgency to urinate is a pervasive health and quality of life concern. However, risk factors for developing these symptoms are not completely understood, and the influence of exposure to environmental chemicals, especially during development, on the formation and function of the bladder is understudied. Environmental contaminants such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are known to pose a risk to the developing brain; however, their influence on the development of peripheral target organs, such as bladder, are unknown. To address this data gap, C57Bl/6J mouse dams were exposed to an environmentally-relevant PCB mixture at 0, 0.1, 1 or 6 mg/kg daily beginning two weeks prior to mating and continuing through gestation and lactation. Bladders were collected from offspring at postnatal days (P) 28-31. PCB concentrations were detected in bladders in a dose-dependent manner. PCB effects on the bladder were sex- and dose-dependent. Overall, PCB effects were observed in male, but not female, bladders. PCBs increased bladder volume and suburothelial βIII-tubulin-positive nerve density compared to vehicle control. A subset of these nerves were sensory peptidergic axons indicated by increased calcitonin gene-related protein (CGRP) positive nerve fibers in mice exposed to the highest PCB dose compared to the lowest PCB dose. PCB-induced increased nerve density was also positively correlated with the number of mast cells in the bladder, suggesting inflammation may be involved. There were no detectable changes in epithelial composition or apoptosis as indicated by expression of cleaved caspase 3, suggesting PCBs do not cause overt toxicity. Bladder volume changes were not accompanied by changes in bladder mass or epithelial thickness, indicating that obstruction was not likely involved. Together, these results are the first to suggest that following developmental exposure, PCBs can distribute to the bladder and alter neuroanatomic development and bladder volume in male mice.

Comprehensive Subchronic Inhalation Toxicity Assessment of an Indoor School Air Mixture of PCBs

Few in vivo inhalation studies have explored the toxicity of environmentally relevant mixtures of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The manufacture of industrial PCBs was banned in 1978, but PCBs continue to be formed in industrial and consumer products. Schools represent a significant source of airborne exposures to legacy and nonlegacy PCBs, placing children at risk. To evaluate the impact of these exposures, we generated an airborne mixture of PCBs, called the School Air Mixture (SAM), to match the profile of an older school from our adolescent cohort study. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed either to SAM or filtered air in nose-only exposure systems, 4 h/day for 4 weeks. Congener-specific air and tissue PCB profiles were assessed using gas chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). PCB exposures recapitulated the target school air profile with a similarity coefficient, cos θ of 0.83. PCB inhalation yielded μg/g ∑209 PCB levels in tissues. Neurobehavioral testing demonstrated a modest effect on spatial learning and memory in SAM-exposed rats. PCB exposure induced oxidative stress in the liver and lungs, affected the maturational stages of hematopoietic stem cells, reduced telomerase activity in bone marrow cells, and altered the gut microbiota. This is the first study to emulate PCB exposures in a school and comprehensively evaluate toxicity.

Fatty liver and impaired hepatic metabolism alter the congener-specific distribution of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in mice with a liver-specific deletion of cytochrome P450 reductase

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are persistent organic pollutants that are linked to adverse health outcomes. PCB tissue levels are determinants of PCB toxicity; however, it is unclear how factors, such as an altered metabolism and/or a fatty liver, affect PCB distribution in vivo. We determined the congener-specific disposition of PCBs in mice with a liver-specific deletion of cytochrome P450 reductase (KO), a model of fatty liver with impaired hepatic metabolism, and wild-type (WT) mice. Eight-week-old male WT (M_WT, n = 3), male KO (M_KO, n = 5), female WT (F_WT, n = 4), and female KO mice (F_KO, n = 4) were exposed orally to Aroclor 1254. PCBs were quantified in adipose, blood, brain, and liver tissues by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The ΣPCB levels followed the rank order adipose > liver ∼ brain > blood in WT and adipose ∼ liver > brain > blood in KO mice. PCB levels were much higher in the liver of KO than WT mice, irrespective of the sex. A comparison across exposure groups revealed minor genotype and sex-dependent differences in the PCB congener profiles (cos Θ > 0.92). Within each exposure group, tissue profiles showed small differences between tissues (cos Θ = 0.85 to 0.98). These differences were due to a decrease in metabolically more labile PCB congeners and an increase in congeners resistant to metabolism. The tissue-to-blood ratio of PCBs decreased for adipose, increased for the brain, and remained constant for the liver with an increase in chlorination. While these ratios did not follow the trends predicted using a composition-based model, the agreement between experimental and calculated partition coefficients was reasonable. Although the distribution of PCBs differs between KO and WT mice, the magnitude of the partitioning of PCBs from the blood into tissues can be approximated using composition-based models.

Fatty liver and impaired hepatic metabolism alter the congener-specific distribution of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in mice with a liver-specific deletion of cytochrome P450 reductase

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are persistent organic pollutants that are linked to adverse health outcomes. PCB tissue levels are determinants of PCB toxicity; however, it is unclear how factors, such as an altered metabolism and/or a fatty liver, affect PCB distribution in vivo. We determined the congener-specific disposition of PCBs in mice with a liver-specific deletion of cytochrome P450 reductase (KO), a model of fatty liver with impaired hepatic metabolism, and wild-type (WT) mice. Eight-week-old male WT (M_WT, n = 3), male KO (M_KO, n = 5), female WT (F_WT, n = 4), and female KO mice (F_KO, n = 4) were exposed orally to Aroclor 1254. PCBs were quantified in adipose, blood, brain, and liver tissues by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The ΣPCB levels followed the rank order adipose > liver ∼ brain > blood in WT and adipose ∼ liver > brain > blood in KO mice. PCB levels were much higher in the liver of KO than WT mice, irrespective of the sex. A comparison across exposure groups revealed minor genotype and sex-dependent differences in the PCB congener profiles (cos Θ > 0.92). Within each exposure group, tissue profiles showed small differences between tissues (cos Θ = 0.85 to 0.98). These differences were due to a decrease in metabolically more labile PCB congeners and an increase in congeners resistant to metabolism. The tissue-to-blood ratio of PCBs decreased for adipose, increased for the brain, and remained constant for the liver with an increase in chlorination. While these ratios did not follow the trends predicted using a composition-based model, the agreement between experimental and calculated partition coefficients was reasonable. Although the distribution of PCBs differs between KO and WT mice, the magnitude of the partitioning of PCBs from the blood into tissues can be approximated using composition-based models.

Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs): Risk Factors for Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) includes a group of multifactorial neurodevelopmental disorders defined clinically by core deficits in social reciprocity and communication, restrictive interests and repetitive behaviors. ASD affects one in 54 children in the United States, one in 89 children in Europe, and one in 277 children in Asia, with an estimated worldwide prevalence of 1-2%. While there is increasing consensus that ASD results from complex gene x environment interactions, the identity of specific environmental risk factors and the mechanisms by which environmental and genetic factors interact to determine individual risk remain critical gaps in our understanding of ASD etiology. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are ubiquitous environmental contaminants that have been linked to altered neurodevelopment in humans. Preclinical studies demonstrate that PCBs modulate signaling pathways implicated in ASD and phenocopy the effects of ASD risk genes on critical morphometric determinants of neuronal connectivity, such as dendritic arborization. Here, we review human and experimental evidence identifying PCBs as potential risk factors for ASD and discuss the potential for PCBs to influence not only core symptoms of ASD, but also comorbidities commonly associated with ASD, via effects on the central and peripheral nervous systems, and/or peripheral target tissues, using bladder dysfunction as an example. We also discuss critical data gaps in the literature implicating PCBs as ASD risk factors. Unlike genetic factors, which are currently irreversible, environmental factors are modifiable risks. Therefore, data confirming PCBs as risk factors for ASD may suggest rational approaches for the primary prevention of ASD in genetically susceptible individuals.

The influence of sex, genotype, and dose on serum and hippocampal cytokine levels in juvenile mice developmentally exposed to a human-relevant mixture of polychlorinated biphenyls

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are pervasive environmental contaminants implicated as risk factors for neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Immune dysregulation is another NDD risk factor, and developmental PCB exposures are associated with early life immune dysregulation. Studies of the immunomodulatory effects of PCBs have focused on the higher-chlorinated congeners found in legacy commercial mixtures. Comparatively little is known about the immune effects of contemporary, lower-chlorinated PCBs. This is a critical data gap given recent reports that lower-chlorinated congeners comprise >70% of the total PCB burden in serum of pregnant women enrolled in the MARBLES study who are at increased risk for having a child with an NDD. To examine the influence of PCBs, sex, and genotype on cytokine levels, mice were exposed throughout gestation and lactation to a PCB mixture in the maternal diet, which was based on the 12 most abundant PCBs in sera from MARBLES subjects. Using multiplex array, cytokines were quantified in the serum and hippocampus of weanling mice expressing either a human gain-of-function mutation in ryanodine receptor 1 (T4826I mice), a human CGG premutation repeat expansion in the fragile X mental retardation gene 1 (CGG mice), or both mutations (DM mice). Congenic wildtype (WT) mice were used as controls. There were dose-dependent effects of PCB exposure on cytokine concentrations in the serum but not hippocampus. Differential effects of genotype were observed in the serum and hippocampus. Hippocampal cytokines were consistently elevated in T4826I mice and also in WT animals for some cytokines compared to CGG and DM mice, while serum cytokines were usually elevated in the mutant genotypes compared to the WT group. Males had elevated levels of 19 cytokines in the serum and 4 in the hippocampus compared to females, but there were also interactions between sex and genotype for 7 hippocampal cytokines. Only the chemokine CCL5 in the serum showed an interaction between PCB dose, genotype, and sex. Collectively, these findings indicate differential influences of PCB exposure and genotype on cytokine levels in serum and hippocampal tissue of weanling mice. These results suggest that developmental PCB exposure has chronic effects on baseline serum, but not hippocampal, cytokine levels in juvenile mice.

Persistent organic pollutants in green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) inhabiting two urbanized Southern California habitats

Within Southern California, east Pacific green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) forage year-round, taking advantage of diverse food resources, including seagrass, marine algae, and invertebrates. Assessing persistent organic pollutants (POP) in green turtle aggregations in the Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge (SBNWR, n = 17) and San Diego Bay (SDB, n = 25) can help quantify contamination risks for these populations. Blood plasma was analyzed for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorinated pesticides (OCPs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). PCBs and body size explained much of the separation of turtles by foraging aggregation in a principal component analysis. Turtles from SDB had significantly (p < 0.001) higher total PCBs than SBNWR turtles. Most PCBs detected in turtles were non-dioxin-like PCB congeners (153, 138, 99) that are associated with neurotoxicity. Recaptured turtles' POP levels changed significantly over time indicating significant variation in POP levels through time and space, even among adjacent foraging locations.

The developmental neurotoxicity of legacy vs. contemporary polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs): similarities and differences

Although banned from production for decades, PCBs remain a significant risk to human health. A primary target of concern is the developing brain. Epidemiological studies link PCB exposures in utero or during infancy to increased risk of neuropsychiatric deficits in children. Nonclinical studies of legacy congeners found in PCB mixtures synthesized prior to the ban on PCB production suggest that non-dioxin-like (NDL) congeners are predominantly responsible for the developmental neurotoxicity associated with PCB exposures. Mechanistic studies suggest that NDL PCBs alter neurodevelopment via ryanodine receptor-dependent effects on dendritic arborization. Lightly chlorinated congeners, which were not present in the industrial mixtures synthesized prior to the ban on PCB production, have emerged as contemporary environmental contaminants, but there is a paucity of data regarding their potential developmental neurotoxicity. PCB 11, a prevalent contemporary congener, is found in the serum of children and their mothers, as well as in the serum of pregnant women at increased risk for having a child diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD). Recent data demonstrates that PCB 11 modulates neuronal morphogenesis via mechanisms that are convergent with and divergent from those implicated in the developmental neurotoxicity of legacy NDL PCBs. This review summarizes these data and discusses their relevance to adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in humans.

Evidence Implicating Non-Dioxin-Like Congeners as the Key Mediators of Polychlorinated Biphenyl (PCB) Developmental Neurotoxicity

Despite being banned from production for decades, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) continue to pose a significant risk to human health. This is due to not only the continued release of legacy PCBs from PCB-containing equipment and materials manufactured prior to the ban on PCB production, but also the inadvertent production of PCBs as byproducts of contemporary pigment and dye production. Evidence from human and animal studies clearly identifies developmental neurotoxicity as a primary endpoint of concern associated with PCB exposures. However, the relative role(s) of specific PCB congeners in mediating the adverse effects of PCBs on the developing nervous system, and the mechanism(s) by which PCBs disrupt typical neurodevelopment remain outstanding questions. New questions are also emerging regarding the potential developmental neurotoxicity of lower chlorinated PCBs that were not present in the legacy commercial PCB mixtures, but constitute a significant proportion of contemporary human PCB exposures. Here, we review behavioral and mechanistic data obtained from experimental models as well as recent epidemiological studies that suggest the non-dioxin-like (NDL) PCBs are primarily responsible for the developmental neurotoxicity associated with PCBs. We also discuss emerging data demonstrating the potential for non-legacy, lower chlorinated PCBs to cause adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. Molecular targets, the relevance of PCB interactions with these targets to neurodevelopmental disorders, and critical data gaps are addressed as well.

Gut Microbiota Modulates Interactions Between Polychlorinated Biphenyls and Bile Acid Homeostasis

The gut microbiome is increasingly recognized as a second genome that contributes to the health and diseases of the host. A major function of the gut microbiota is to convert primary bile acids (BAs) produced from cholesterol in the liver into secondary BAs that activate distinct host receptors to modulate xenobiotic metabolism and energy homeostasis. The goal of this study was to investigate to what extent oral exposure to an environmentally relevant polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs mixture), namely the Fox River mixture, impacts gut microbiome and BA homeostasis. Ninety-day-old adult female conventional (CV) and germ-free (GF) C57BL/6 mice were orally exposed to corn oil (vehicle), or the Fox River mixture at 6 or 30 mg/kg once daily for 3 consecutive days. The PCB low dose profoundly increased BA metabolism related bacteria Akkermansia (A.) muciniphila, Clostridium (C.) scindens, and Enterococcus in the large intestinal pellet (LIP) of CV mice (16S rRNA sequencing/qPCR). This correlated with a PCB low dose-mediated increase in multiple BAs in serum and small intestinal content (SIP) in a gut microbiota-dependent manner (UPLC-MS/MS). Conversely, at PCB high dose, BA levels remained stable in CV mice correlated with an increase in hepatic efflux transporters and ileal Fgf15. Interestingly, lack of gut microbiota potentiated the PCB-mediated increase in taurine conjugated α and β muricholic acids in liver, SIP, and LIP. Pearson's correlation identified positive correlations between 5 taxa and most secondary BAs. In conclusion, PCBs dose-dependently altered BA homeostasis through a joint effort between host gut-liver axis and intestinal bacteria.

Developmental exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in the maternal diet causes host-microbe defects in weanling offspring mice

The gut microbiota is important for maintaining homeostasis of the host. Gut microbes represent the initial site for toxicant processing following dietary exposures to environmental contaminants. The diet is the primary route of exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which are absorbed via the gut, and subsequently interfere with neurodevelopment and behavior. Developmental exposures to PCBs have been linked to increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD), including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which are also associated with a high prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) distress and intestinal dysbiosis. We hypothesized that developmental PCB exposure impacts colonization of the gut microbiota, resulting in GI pathophysiology, in a genetically susceptible host. Mouse dams expressing two heritable human mutations (double mutants [DM]) that result in abnormal Ca²⁺ dynamics and produce behavioral deficits (gain of function mutation in the ryanodine receptor 1 [T4826I-RYR1] and a human CGG repeat expansion [170-200 CGG repeats] in the fragile X mental retardation gene 1 [FMR1 premutation]). DM and congenic wild type (WT) controls were exposed to PCBs (0-6 mg/kg/d) in the diet starting 2 weeks before gestation and continuing through postnatal day 21 (P21). Intestinal physiology (Ussing chambers), inflammation (qPCR) and gut microbiome (16S sequencing) studies were performed in offspring mice (P28-P30). Developmental exposure to PCBs in the maternal diet caused significant mucosal barrier defects in ileum and colon (increased secretory state and tight junction permeability) of juvenile DM mice. Furthermore, PCB exposure increased the intestinal inflammatory profile (Il6, Il1β, and Il22), and resulted in dysbiosis of the gut microbiota, including altered β-diversity, in juvenile DM mice developmentally exposed to 1 mg/kg/d PCBs when compared to WT controls. Collectively, these findings demonstrate a novel interaction between PCB exposure and the gut microbiota in a genetically susceptible host that provide novel insight into environmental risk factors for neurodevelopmental disorders.

Neurotoxicity of polychlorinated biphenyls and related organohalogens

Halogenated organic compounds are pervasive in natural and built environments. Despite restrictions on the production of many of these compounds in most parts of the world through the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), many "legacy" compounds, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), are routinely detected in human tissues where they continue to pose significant health risks to highly exposed and susceptible populations. A major concern is developmental neurotoxicity, although impacts on neurodegenerative outcomes have also been noted. Here, we review human studies of prenatal and adult exposures to PCBs and describe the state of knowledge regarding outcomes across domains related to cognition (e.g., IQ, language, memory, learning), attention, behavioral regulation and executive function, and social behavior, including traits related to attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). We also review current understanding of molecular mechanisms underpinning these associations, with a focus on dopaminergic neurotransmission, thyroid hormone disruption, calcium dyshomeostasis, and oxidative stress. Finally, we briefly consider contemporary sources of organohalogens that may pose human health risks via mechanisms of neurotoxicity common to those ascribed to PCBs.

Gut microbiome: An intermediary to neurotoxicity

There is growing recognition that the gut microbiome is an important regulator for neurological functions. This review provides a summary on the role of gut microbiota in various neurological disorders including neurotoxicity induced by environmental stressors such as drugs, environmental contaminants, and dietary factors. We propose that the gut microbiome remotely senses and regulates CNS signaling through the following mechanisms: 1) intestinal bacteria-mediated biotransformation of neurotoxicants that alters the neuro-reactivity of the parent compounds; 2) altered production of neuro-reactive microbial metabolites following exposure to certain environmental stressors; 3) bi-directional communication within the gut-brain axis to alter the intestinal barrier integrity; and 4) regulation of mucosal immune function. Distinct microbial metabolites may enter systemic circulation and epigenetically reprogram the expression of host genes in the CNS, regulating neuroinflammation, cell survival, or cell death. We will also review the current tools for the study of the gut-brain axis and provide some suggestions to move this field forward in the future.

Comparative Analyses of the 12 Most Abundant PCB Congeners Detected in Human Maternal Serum for Activity at the Thyroid Hormone Receptor and Ryanodine Receptor

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) pose significant risk to the developing human brain; however, mechanisms of PCB developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) remain controversial. Two widely posited mechanisms are tested here using PCBs identified in pregnant women in the MARBLES cohort who are at increased risk for having a child with a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD). As determined by gas chromatography-triple quadruple mass spectrometry, the mean PCB level in maternal serum was 2.22 ng/mL. The 12 most abundant PCBs were tested singly and as a mixture mimicking the congener profile in maternal serum for activity at the thyroid hormone receptor (THR) and ryanodine receptor (RyR). Neither the mixture nor the individual congeners (2 fM to 2 μM) exhibited agonistic or antagonistic activity in a THR reporter cell line. However, as determined by equilibrium binding of [3H]ryanodine to RyR1-enriched microsomes, the mixture and the individual congeners (50 nM to 50 μM) increased RyR activity by 2.4-19.2-fold. 4-Hydroxy (OH) and 4-sulfate metabolites of PCBs 11 and 52 had no TH activity; but 4-OH PCB 52 had higher potency than the parent congener toward RyR. These data support evidence implicating RyRs as targets in environmentally triggered NDDs and suggest that PCB effects on the THR are not a predominant mechanism driving PCB DNT. These findings provide scientific rationale regarding a point of departure for quantitative risk assessment of PCB DNT, and identify in vitro assays for screening other environmental pollutants for DNT potential.

Polychlorinated biphenyls influence on autism spectrum disorder risk in the MARBLES cohort

BACKGROUND

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is suspected to have environmental and genetic contributions. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are environmental risk factors of interest due to their potential as neurodevelopmental toxicants and environmental persistence despite a US production ban in the 1970s.

METHODS

Participants were mother-child pairs from MARBLES, a high-risk pregnancy cohort that enrolls families who have one child diagnosed with ASD and are planning to have another child. PCB concentrations were measured in maternal blood at each trimester of pregnancy using gas chromatography coupled with triple quadruple mass spectrometry. Concentrations were summed into total PCB and two categories based on function/mechanisms of action: dioxin-like (DL), and ryanodine receptor (RyR)-activating PCBs. Multinomial logistic regression assessed risk of clinical outcome classification of ASD and non-typical development (Non-TD) compared to typically developing (TD) in the children at 3 years old.

RESULTS

A total of 104 mother-child pairs were included. There were no significant associations for total PCB; however, there were borderline significant associations between DL-PCBs and decreased risk for Non-TD outcome classification (adjusted OR: 0.41 (95% CI 0.15-1.14)) and between RyR-activating PCBs and increased risk for ASD outcome classification (adjusted OR: 2.63 (95% CI 0.87-7.97)).

CONCLUSION

This study does not provide strong supporting evidence that PCBs are risk factors for ASD or Non-TD. However, these analyses suggest the need to explore more deeply into subsets of PCBs as risk factors based on their function and structure in larger cohort studies where non-monotonic dose-response patterns can be better evaluated.

Sex-Dependent Effects of 2,2',3,5',6-Pentachlorobiphenyl on Dendritic Arborization of Primary Mouse Neurons

Early life exposures to environmental contaminants are implicated in the pathogenesis of many neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). These disorders often display sex biases, but whether environmental neurotoxicants act in a sex-dependent manner to modify neurodevelopment is largely unknown. Since altered dendritic morphology is associated with many NDDs, we tested the hypothesis that male and female primary mouse neurons are differentially susceptible to the dendrite-promoting activity of 2,2',3,5',6-pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB 95). Hippocampal and cortical neuron-glia co-cultures were exposed to vehicle (0.1% dimethylsulfoxide) or PCB 95 (100 fM-1 μM) from day in vitro 7-9. As determined by Sholl analysis, PCB 95-enhanced dendritic growth in female but not male hippocampal and cortical neurons. In contrast, both male and female neurons responded to bicuculline with increased dendritic complexity. Detailed morphometric analyses confirmed that PCB 95 effects on the number and length of primary and nonprimary dendrites varied depending on sex, brain region and PCB concentration, and that female neurons responded more consistently with increased dendritic growth and at lower concentrations of PCB 95 than their male counterparts. Exposure to PCB 95 did not alter cell viability or the ratio of neurons to glia in cultures of either sex. These results demonstrate that cultured female mouse hippocampal and cortical neurons are more sensitive than male neurons to the dendrite-promoting activity of PCB 95, and suggest that mechanisms underlying PCB 95-induced dendritic growth are sex-dependent. These data highlight the importance of sex in neuronal responses to environmental neurotoxicants.

Toxicokinetics of Chiral PCB 136 and Its Hydroxylated Metabolites in Mice with a Liver-Specific Deletion of Cytochrome P450 Reductase

Exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) has been implicated in adverse human health effects, including developmental neurotoxicity. Several neurotoxic PCBs are chiral and undergo atropisomeric enrichment in vivo due to atropselective metabolism by cytochrome P450 enzymes. Here we study how the liver-specific deletion of the cytochrome P450 reductase ( cpr) gene alters the toxicokinetics of 2,2',3,3',6,6'-hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB 136) in mice. Male and female mice with a liver-specific deletion of cpr (KO) and congenic wild-type (WT) mice were exposed to a single oral dose of racemic PCB 136 (6.63 mg/kg). Levels and chiral signatures of PCB 136 and its hydroxylated metabolites were determined 1-48 h after PCB exposure in whole blood. Blood levels of PCB 136 were typically higher in M-WT compared to F-WT mice. At the later time points, F-KO mice had significantly higher PCB 136 levels than F-WT mice. 2,2',3',4,6,6'-Hexachlorobiphenyl-3-ol (3-150), 2,2',3,3',6,6'-hexachlorobiphenyl-4-ol (4-136), 2,2',3,3',6,6'-hexachlorobiphenyl-5-ol (5-136), and 4,5-dihydroxy-2,2',3,3',6,6'-hexachlorobiphenyl (4,5-136) were detected in blood, with 5-136 and 4-136 being major metabolites. At later time points, the sum of HO-PCB (∑HO-PCB) levels exceeded PCB 136 levels in the blood; however, higher ∑HO-PCB than PCB 136 levels were observed later in KO than WT mice. PCB 136 and its major metabolites displayed atropisomeric enrichment in a manner that depended on the time point, sex, and genotype. Toxicokinetic analysis revealed sex and genotype-dependent differences in toxicokinetic parameters for PCB 136 atropisomers and its metabolites. The results suggest that mice with a liver-specific deletion of the cpr gene can potentially be used to assess how an altered metabolism of neurotoxic PCB congeners affects neurotoxic outcomes following exposure of the offspring to PCBs via the maternal diet.

Developmental exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of bifenthrin alters transcription of mTOR and ryanodine receptor-dependent signaling molecules and impairs predator avoidance behavior across early life stages in inland silversides (Menidia beryllina)

Altered transcription of calcium-dependent signaling cascades involving the ryanodine receptor (RyR) and mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) in response to environmental exposures have been described in model vertebrates, including zebrafish, while the relevance for wild fishes remains unknown. To address this knowledge gap, we exposed the euryhaline model species Menidia beryllina (inland silversides) to the insecticide bifenthrin, a known modulator of calcium signaling. The main objectives of this study were to determine: (1) whether exposure of developing silversides to environmentally relevant concentrations of bifenthrin alters their behavior; and (2) whether behavioral changes correlate with altered expression of genes involved in RyR and mTOR-dependent signaling pathways. At six hours post fertilization (hpf), inland silversides were exposed to bifenthrin at 3, 27 and 122 ng/L until 7 days post fertilization (dpf, larvae hatched at 6dpf), followed by a 14-day recovery period in uncontaminated water. Transcriptional responses were measured at 5, 7 and 21 dpf; locomotor behavior following external stimuli and response to an olfactory predator cue were assessed at 7 and 21 dpf. Bifenthrin elicited significant non-monotonic transcriptional responses in the majority of genes examined at 5 dpf and at 21 dpf. Bifenthrin also significantly altered predator avoidance behavior via olfactory mechanisms with main effects identified for animals exposed to 3 and 27 ng/L. Behavioral effects were not detected in response to visual stimuli during acute exposure, but were significant in the predator-cue assessment following the recovery period, suggesting delayed and long-term effects of early developmental exposures to bifenthrin. Our findings demonstrate that at picomolar (pM) concentrations, which are often not represented in ecotoxicological studies, bifenthrin perturbs early development of inland silversides. These developmental impacts are manifested behaviorally at later life stages, specifically as altered patterns of predator avoidance behavior, which have been correlated with population decline. Collectively, these data suggest that bifenthrin may be negatively impacting wild fish populations.

Polychlorinated biphenyls reduce the kinematics contractile properties of embryonic stem cells-derived cardiomyocytes by disrupting their intracellular Ca2+ dynamics

Persistent organic pollutants are a group of chemicals that include polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). PCBs exposure during adult life increases incidence and severity of cardiomyopathies, whereas in utero exposure determines congenital heart defects. Being fat-soluble, PCBs are passed to newborns through maternal milk, impairing heart functionality in the adult. It is still unknown how PCBs impair cardiac contraction at cellular/molecular levels. Here, we study the molecular mechanisms by which PCBs cause the observed heart contraction defects, analysing the alterations of Ca²⁺ toolkit components that regulate contraction. We investigated the effect that Aroclor 1254 (Aroclor), a mixture of PCBs, has on perinatal-like cardiomyocytes derived from mouse embryonic stem cells. Cardiomyocytes, exposed to 1 or 2 µg/ml Aroclor for 24 h, were analyzed for their kinematics contractile properties and intracellular Ca²⁺ dynamics. We observed that Aroclor impairs cardiomyocytes contractile properties by inhibiting spontaneous Ca²⁺ oscillations. It disrupts intracellular Ca²⁺ homeostasis by reducing the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺ content and by inhibiting voltage-gated Ca²⁺ entry. These findings contribute to the understanding of the molecular underpinnings of PCBs-induced cardiovascular alterations, which are emerging as an additional life-threatening hurdle associated to PCBs pollution. Therefore, PCBs-dependent alteration of intracellular Ca²⁺ dynamics is the most likely trigger of developmental cardiac functional alteration.

Triclosan Impairs Hippocampal Synaptic Plasticity and Spatial Memory in Male Rats

Triclosan, a widely used industrial and household agent, is present as an antiseptic ingredient in numerous products of everyday use, such as toothpaste, cosmetics, kitchenware, and toys. Previous studies have shown that human brain and animal tissues contain triclosan, which has been found also as a contaminant of water and soil. Triclosan disrupts heart and skeletal muscle Ca2+ signaling, damages liver function, alters gut microbiota, causes colonic inflammation, and promotes apoptosis in cultured neocortical neurons and neural stem cells. Information, however, on the possible effects of triclosan on the function of the hippocampus, a key brain region for spatial learning and memory, is lacking. Here, we report that triclosan addition at low concentrations to hippocampal slices from male rats inhibited long-term potentiation but did not affect basal synaptic transmission or paired-pulse facilitation and modified the content or phosphorylation levels of synaptic plasticity-related proteins. Additionally, incubation of primary hippocampal cultures with triclosan prevented both the dendritic spine remodeling induced by brain-derived neurotrophic factor and the emergence of spontaneous oscillatory Ca2+ signals. Furthermore, intra-hippocampal injection of triclosan significantly disrupted rat navigation in the Oasis maze spatial memory task, an indication that triclosan impairs hippocampus-dependent spatial memory performance. Based on these combined results, we conclude that triclosan exerts highly damaging effects on hippocampal neuronal function in vitro and impairs spatial memory processes in vivo.