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Hoffman K, Tang X, Cooper EM, Hammel SC, Sjodin A, Phillips AL, Webster TF, Stapleton HM. Children's exposure to brominated flame retardants in the home: The TESIE study. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 352:124110. [PMID: 38723705 PMCID: PMC11170763 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Due to differences in chemical properties and half-lives, best practices for exposure assessment may differ for legacy versus novel brominated flame retardants (BFRs). Our objective was to identify the environment matrix that best predicted biomarkers of children's BFR exposures. Paired samples were collected from children aged 3-6 years and their homes, including dust, a small piece of polyurethane foam from the furniture, and a handwipe and wristband from each child. Biological samples collected included serum, which was analyzed for 11 polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and urine, which was analyzed for tetrabromobenzoic acid (TBBA), a metabolite of 2-ethylhexyl-2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate (EH-TBB). Significant positive correlations were typically observed between BFRs measured in dust, handwipes and wristbands, though wristbands and handwipes tended to be more strongly correlated with one another than with dust. PBDEs, EH-TBB and BEH-TEBP were detected in 30% of the sofa foam samples, suggesting that the foam was treated with PentaBDE or Firemaster® 550/600 (FM 550/600). PBDEs were detected in all serum samples and TBBA was detected in 43% of urine samples. Statistically significant positive correlations were observed between the environmental samples and serum for PBDEs. Urinary TBBA was 6.86 and 6.58 times more likely to be detected among children in the highest tertile of EH-TBB exposure for handwipes and wristbands, respectively (95 % CI: 2.61, 18.06 and 1.43, 30.05 with p < 0.001 and 0.02, respectively). The presence of either PentaBDE or FM 550/600 in furniture was also associated with significantly higher levels of these chemicals in dust, handwipes and serum (for PBDEs) and more frequent detection of TBBA in urine (p = 0.13). Our results suggest that children are exposed to a range of BFRs in the home, some of which likely originate from residential furniture, and that silicone wristbands are a practical tool for evaluating external exposure to both legacy and novel BFRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Hoffman
- Nicholas School of Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States; Children's Health Discovery Initiative, Duke School of Medicine, North Carolina, United States.
| | - Xuening Tang
- Nicholas School of Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States.
| | - Ellen M Cooper
- Nicholas School of Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States.
| | - Stephanie C Hammel
- Nicholas School of Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States; National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Andreas Sjodin
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States.
| | - Allison L Phillips
- Nicholas School of Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States.
| | - Thomas F Webster
- Boston University School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States.
| | - Heather M Stapleton
- Nicholas School of Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States; Children's Health Discovery Initiative, Duke School of Medicine, North Carolina, United States.
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Marinello WP, Gillera SEA, Huang L, Rollman J, Reif DM, Patisaul HB. Uncovering the common factors of chemical exposure and behavior: Evaluating behavioral effects across a testing battery using factor analysis. Neurotoxicology 2023; 99:264-273. [PMID: 37914043 PMCID: PMC11154886 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2023.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Although specific environmental chemical exposures, including flame retardants, are known risk factors for neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), direct experimental evidence linking specific chemicals to NDDs is limited. Studies focusing on the mechanisms by which the social processing systems are vulnerable to chemical exposure are underrepresented in the literature, even though social impairments are defining characteristics of many NDDs. We have repeatedly demonstrated that exposure to Firemaster 550 (FM 550), a prevalent flame retardant mixture used in foam-based furniture and infant products, can adversely impact a variety of behavioral endpoints. Our recent work in prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster), a prosocial animal model, demonstrated that perinatal exposure to FM 550 sex specifically impacts socioemotional behavior. Here, we utilized a factor analysis approach on a battery of behavioral data from our prior study to extract underlying factors that potentially explain patterns within the FM 550 behavior data. This approach identified which aspects of the behavioral battery are most robust and informative, an outcome critical for future study designs. Pearson's correlation identified behavioral endpoints associated with distance and stranger interactions that were highly correlated across 5 behavioral tests. Using these behavioral endpoints, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) extracted 2 factors that could explain the data: Activity (distance traveled endpoints) and Sociability (time spent with a novel conspecific). Exposure to FM 550 significantly decreased Activity and decreased Sociability. This factor analysis approach to behavioral data offers the advantages of modeling numerous measured variables and simplifying the data set by presenting the data in terms of common, overarching factors in terms of behavioral function.
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Affiliation(s)
- William P Marinello
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Sagi Enicole A Gillera
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; ICF International Inc, Durham, NC 27713, USA
| | - Lynn Huang
- Department of Statistics, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - John Rollman
- Department of Statistics, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - David M Reif
- Bioinformatics Research Center, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Heather B Patisaul
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; Center for Human Health and the Environment, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.
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3
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Marinello WP, Gillera SEA, Han Y, Richardson JR, St Armour G, Horman BM, Patisaul HB. Gestational exposure to FireMaster® 550 (FM 550) disrupts the placenta-brain axis in a socially monogamous rodent species, the prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster). Mol Cell Endocrinol 2023; 576:112041. [PMID: 37562579 PMCID: PMC10795011 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.112041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Gestational flame retardant (FR) exposure has been linked to heightened risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, but the mechanisms remain largely unknown. Historically, toxicologists have relied on traditional, inbred rodent models, yet those do not always best model human vulnerability or biological systems, especially social systems. Here we used prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster), a monogamous and bi-parental rodent, leveraged for decades to decipher the underpinnings of social behaviors, to examine the impact of fetal FR exposure on gene targets in the mid-gestational placenta and fetal brain. We previously established gestational exposure to the commercial mixture Firemaster 550 (FM 550) impairs sociality, particularly in males. FM 550 exposure disrupted placental monoamine production, particularly serotonin, and genes required for axon guidance and cellular respiration in the fetal brains. Effects were dose and sex specific. These data provide insights on the mechanisms by which FRs impair neurodevelopment and later in life social behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- William P Marinello
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | | | - Yoonhee Han
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - Jason R Richardson
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - Genevieve St Armour
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Brian M Horman
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Heather B Patisaul
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA; Center for Human Health and the Environment, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA.
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Mangion J, Gruppetta M. The environmental burden on endocrine neoplasia: a review on the documented impact of endocrine disrupting chemicals. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2023; 18:513-524. [PMID: 37840278 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2023.2268215] [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: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) have gained more importance in the past decade, mostly due to their role in the pathogenesis of disease, especially in carcinogenesis. However, there is limited literature on the environmental burden on some of the less common endocrine neoplasia. AREAS COVERED This review focuses on both observational and experimental studies linking exposure to EDCs and endocrine neoplasia specifically pituitary, thyroid, adrenal and neuroendocrine tumors. Following PRISMA guidelines, a search of English peer-reviewed literature was performed using Medline and Google Scholar, giving preference to recent publications. EXPERT OPINION Exposure to EDC occurs not only in the household but also at work, whether it is in the office, factory, or farm and during transport from one location to another. Many studies have evaluated the effect of single environmental agents; however, humans are rarely exposed to only one EDC. Different EDCs and different levels of exposure may interact together to provide either a synergistic and/or an antagonistic disruption on human health, and hence a complex mechanism to elucidate. The ultimate adverse effect is difficult to predict, as it is not only influenced by the degree of exposure, but also by genetics, lifestyle, comorbidities, and other stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Mangion
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta
- Neuroendocrine Clinic, Department of Medicine, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta
| | - Mark Gruppetta
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta
- Neuroendocrine Clinic, Department of Medicine, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta
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Schkoda S, Horman B, Witchey SK, Jansson A, Macari S, Patisaul HB. Skeletal effects following developmental flame-retardant exposure are specific to sex and chemical class in the adult Wistar rat. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2023; 5:1216388. [PMID: 37577032 PMCID: PMC10414991 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2023.1216388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Accumulating evidence reveals that endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can disrupt aspects of metabolic programming, suggesting that skeletal development may be at risk, a possibility that is rarely examined. The commercial flame retardant (FR) mixture, Firemaster 550 (FM 550), has repeatedly been shown to negatively influence metabolic programming, raising concerns that skeletal integrity may consequently be impaired. We have previously shown that gestational and lactational exposure to 1,000 µg FM 550 negatively affected sex-specific skeletal traits in male, but not female, rats assessed at 6 months of age. Whether this outcome is primarily driven by the brominated (BFR) or organophosphate ester (OPFR) portions of the mixture or the effects persist to older ages is unknown. Materials and methods: To address this, in the present study, dams were orally exposed throughout gestation and lactation to either 1,000 μg BFR, 1,000 µg OPFR, or 2,000 µg FM 550. Offspring (n = 8/sex/exposure) were weaned at PND 21 and assessed for femoral cortical and trabecular bone parameters at 8 months of age by high-resolution X-ray micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). Serum levels of serotonin, osteocalcin, alkaline phosphatase, and calcium were quantified. Results: FM 550 affected both sexes, but the females were more appreciably impacted by the OPFRs, while the males were more vulnerable to the BFRs. Conclusion: Although sex specificity was expected due to the sexual dimorphic nature of skeletal physiology, the mechanisms accounting for the male- and female-specific phenotypes remain to be determined. Future work aims to clarify these unresolved issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacy Schkoda
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Brian Horman
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Shannah K. Witchey
- National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Anton Jansson
- Analytical Instrumentation Facility, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Soraia Macari
- Department of Restorative Dentistry, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Heather B. Patisaul
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
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6
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Ruis M, Hoffman K, Stapleton HM. Brominated flame retardants and legacy organochlorines in archived human placenta samples: Sex differences, temporal analysis and associations with infant birth weight. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 322:138170. [PMID: 36804493 PMCID: PMC10039416 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Perinatal exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) has been suggested to play a role in the etiology of adverse pregnancy outcomes. This study evaluated temporal changes in the accumulation of several classes of POPs, including polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and several organochlorine pesticides in human placenta and examined their associations with birth outcomes at delivery. Placental tissues (n = 99) previously collected and archived at the Duke University Medical Center from 2009 to 2015 were analyzed for 22 POPs using gas chromatography mass spectrometry. The mean age of mothers was 30.6 years; 8% of newborns were characterized as low birthweight (<2500 g). Of the 22 POPs targeted in the analysis, only p,p'-DDE, BDE-47 and BDE-100 were detected in more than 50% of the samples, with median concentrations of 0.110, 0.310, and 0.033 ng/g wet weight, respectively. Placental PBDE concentrations generally decreased over time, particularly BDE-47. Placental tissues associated with female infants had significantly higher levels of BDE-100 than placental tissues associated with male infants (p = 0.02) and a similar, but not statistically significant trend was observed for BDE-47 (p = 0.07). Multivariate regression models revealed that placental BDE-47 concentrations were associated with a significantly lower birthweight among male, but not female infants. A similar, although non-statistically significant, trend was observed for other POPs, further suggesting sex-specific associations between gestational exposure to POPs and birthweight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Ruis
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Kate Hoffman
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27710, USA; Children's Health Discovery Initiative, Duke School of Medicine, North Carolina, United States
| | - Heather M Stapleton
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
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7
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Samon SM, Hammel SC, Stapleton HM, Anderson KA. Silicone wristbands as personal passive sampling devices: Current knowledge, recommendations for use, and future directions. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 169:107339. [PMID: 36116363 PMCID: PMC9713950 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Personal chemical exposure assessment is necessary to determine the frequency and magnitude of individual chemical exposures, especially since chemicals present in everyday environments may lead to adverse health outcomes. In the last decade, silicone wristbands have emerged as a new chemical exposure assessment tool and have since been utilized for assessing personal exposure to a wide range of chemicals in a variety of populations. Silicone wristbands can be powerful tools for quantifying personal exposure to chemical mixtures in a single sample, associating exposure with health outcomes, and potentially overcoming some of the challenges associated with quantifying the chemical exposome. However, as their popularity grows, it is crucial that they are used in the appropriate context and within the limits of the technology. This review serves as a guide for researchers interested in utilizing silicone wristbands as a personal exposure assessment tool. Along with briefly discussing the passive sampling theory behind silicone wristbands, this review performs an in-depth comparison of wristbands to other common exposure assessment tools, including biomarkers of exposure measured in biospecimens, and evaluates their utility in exposure assessments and epidemiological studies. Finally, this review includes recommendations for utilizing silicone wristbands to evaluate personal chemical exposure and provides suggestions on what research is needed to recognize silicone wristbands as a premier chemical exposure assessment tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha M Samon
- Department of Environmental & Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Stephanie C Hammel
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Heather M Stapleton
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Kim A Anderson
- Department of Environmental & Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States.
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Ma S, Hu X, Tang J, Cui J, Lin M, Wang F, Yang Y, Yu Y. Urinary metabolites and handwipe phthalate levels among adults and children in southern China: Implication for dermal exposure. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 439:129639. [PMID: 35908399 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.129639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Paired handwipe and urine samples were collected from adult (n = 130) and child (n = 82) residents of a typical urban community in southern China to examine relationships between external and internal exposure as well as the contribution of dermal absorption to the exposure of phthalates. The concentrations and composition profiles of phthalates were similar in handwipes from both adults and children, and contained mainly di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP) and di-iso-butyl phthalate (DiBP), consistent with profiles of phthalates in air and dust. The major metabolites of these phthalates, i.e., mono-n-butyl phthalate (mnBP) from DnBP, mono-iso-butyl phthalate (miBP) from DiBP and three metabolites of DEHP (namely mEHP, mEHHP and mEOHP) were widely detected in paired urine samples. Positive correlations were found between contamination levels of DiBP and DnBP in handwipes and their corresponding urinary metabolites, whereas no significant correlation was observed for DEHP. This suggests that dermal absorption might be an important exposure pathway particularly for low molecular weight phthalates. Our study shows that dermal absorption is a non-negligible exposure pathway for phthalates, to which children are particularly sensitive since the contribution of dermal uptake to the internal exposure of phthalates was higher in children than adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengtao Ma
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Contaminants Exposure and Health, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Catalysis and Health Risk Control, Institute of Environmental Health and Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Xin Hu
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Contaminants Exposure and Health, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Catalysis and Health Risk Control, Institute of Environmental Health and Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jian Tang
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Contaminants Exposure and Health, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Catalysis and Health Risk Control, Institute of Environmental Health and Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Juntao Cui
- School of Chemical Engineering and Light Industry, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Meiqing Lin
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Contaminants Exposure and Health, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Catalysis and Health Risk Control, Institute of Environmental Health and Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Analysis and Test Center, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yan Yang
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Contaminants Exposure and Health, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Catalysis and Health Risk Control, Institute of Environmental Health and Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China; Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China; Synergy Innovation Institute of GDUT, Shantou 515041, China.
| | - Yingxin Yu
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Contaminants Exposure and Health, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Catalysis and Health Risk Control, Institute of Environmental Health and Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
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9
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Marinello WP, Gillera SEA, Fanning MJ, Malinsky LB, Rhodes CL, Horman BM, Patisaul HB. Effects of developmental exposure to FireMaster® 550 (FM 550) on microglia density, reactivity and morphology in a prosocial animal model. Neurotoxicology 2022; 91:140-154. [PMID: 35526706 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2022.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Microglia are known to shape brain sex differences critical for social and reproductive behaviors. Chemical exposures can disrupt brain sexual differentiation but there is limited data regarding how they may impact microglia distribution and function. We focused on the prevalent flame retardant mixture Firemaster 550 (FM 550) which is used in foam-based furniture and infant products including strollers and nursing pillows because it disrupts sexually dimorphic behaviors. We hypothesized early life FM 550 exposure would disrupt microglial distribution and reactivity in brain regions known to be highly sexually dimorphic or associated with social disorders in humans. We used prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster) because they display spontaneous prosocial behaviors not seen in rats or mice and are thus a powerful model for studying chemical exposure-related impacts on social behaviors and their underlying neural systems. We have previously demonstrated that perinatal FM 550 exposure sex-specifically impacts socioemotional behaviors in prairie voles. We first established that, unlike in rats, the postnatal colonization of the prairie vole brain is not sexually dimorphic. Vole dams were then exposed to FM 550 (0, 500, 1000, 2000 µg/day) via subcutaneous injections through gestation, and pups were directly exposed beginning the day after birth until weaning. Adult offspring's brains were assessed for number and type (ramified, intermediate, ameboid) of microglia in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), cerebellum (lobules VI-VII) and amygdala. Effects were sex- and dose-specific in the regions of interests. Overall, FM 550 exposure resulted in reduced numbers of microglia in most regions examined, with the 1000 µg FM 550 exposed males particularly affected. To further quantify differences in microglia morphology in the 1000 µg FM 550 group, Sholl and skeleton analysis were carried out on individual microglia. Microglia from control females had a more ramified phenotype compared to control males while 1000 µg FM 550-exposed males had decreased branching and ramification compared to same-sex controls. Future studies will examine the impact on the exposure to FM 550 on microglia during development given the critical role of these cells in shaping neural circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- William P Marinello
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | | | - Marley J Fanning
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Lacey B Malinsky
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Cassie L Rhodes
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Brian M Horman
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Heather B Patisaul
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; Center for Human Health and the Environment, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.
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10
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Individual and Combined Effects of Paternal Deprivation and Developmental Exposure to Firemaster 550 on Socio-Emotional Behavior in Prairie Voles. TOXICS 2022; 10:toxics10050268. [PMID: 35622681 PMCID: PMC9147230 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10050268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) is rapidly rising, suggesting a confluence of environmental factors that are likely contributing, including developmental exposure to environmental contaminants. Unfortunately, chemical exposures and social stressors frequently occur simultaneously in many communities, yet very few studies have sought to establish the combined effects on neurodevelopment or behavior. Social deficits are common to many NDDs, and we and others have shown that exposure to the chemical flame retardant mixture, Firemaster 550 (FM 550), or paternal deprivation impairs social behavior and neural function. Here, we used a spontaneously prosocial animal model, the prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster), to explore the effects of perinatal chemical (FM 550) exposure alone or in combination with an early life stressor (paternal absence) on prosocial behavior. Dams were exposed to vehicle (sesame oil) or 1000 µg FM 550 orally via food treats from conception through weaning and the paternal absence groups were generated by removing the sires the day after birth. Adult offspring of both sexes were then subjected to open-field, sociability, and a partner preference test. Paternal deprivation (PD)-related effects included increased anxiety, decreased sociability, and impaired pair-bonding in both sexes. FM 550 effects include heightened anxiety and partner preference in females but reduced partner preference in males. The combination of FM 550 exposure and PD did not exacerbate any behaviors in either sex except for distance traveled by females in the partner preference test and, to a lesser extent, time spent with, and the number of visits to the non-social stimulus by males in the sociability test. FM 550 ameliorated the impacts of parental deprivation on partner preference behaviors in both sexes. This study is significant because it provides evidence that chemical and social stressors can have unique behavioral effects that differ by sex but may not produce worse outcomes in combination.
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11
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Urinary Concentrations of Triclosan, Bisphenol A, and Brominated Flame Retardants and the Association of Triclosan with Demographic Characteristics and Body Fatness among Women with Newly Diagnosed Breast Cancer. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19084681. [PMID: 35457549 PMCID: PMC9024480 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19084681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Background: Triclosan, bisphenol A (BPA), and brominated flame retardants are environmental estrogenic endocrine-disrupting compounds that may influence the prognosis of breast cancer. We examined the urinary concentrations of these compounds and their associations with demographic characteristics and body fatness in a population of women with newly diagnosed breast cancer. Methods: Overnight urine collection and anthropometric measures were obtained from 302 participants. Triclosan, BPA, tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), and tetrabromobenzoic acid (TBBA) concentrations were determined using ultra-performance liquid chromatography−tandem mass spectrometry. Regression analyses were conducted to examine associations of urinary compound concentration with age, menopause, race, ethnicity, educational level, estrogen receptor status, body size, and body composition. Results: Triclosan, BPA, and TBBA were detected in urine samples from 98.3%, 6.0%, and 0.3% of patients, respectively; TBBPA was undetectable. Among patients with quantifiable values, the geometric mean concentrations were 20.74 µg/L (27.04 µg/g creatinine) for triclosan and 0.82 µg/L (1.08 µg/g creatinine) for BPA. Body mass index ≥ 30 vs. <25 kg/m2 was associated with lower creatinine-corrected urinary concentrations of triclosan (−40.00, 95% confidence interval [CI] = −77.19 to −2.81; p = 0.0351). The observed association was predominantly in postmenopausal women (−66.57; 95% CI: −109.18% to −23.96%). Consistent results were found for associations between triclosan levels and fat mass variables. Conclusion: In this study population, women with newly diagnosed breast cancer had triclosan exposure. Assessments of the implications of urinary concentrations of triclosan for women should consider body fatness and menopausal status.
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12
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Gillera SEA, Marinello WP, Cao KT, Horman BM, Stapleton HM, Patisaul HB. Sex-specific Disruption of the Prairie Vole Hypothalamus by Developmental Exposure to a Flame Retardant Mixture. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6285199. [PMID: 34038511 PMCID: PMC8571712 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab100] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) with social deficits is conspicuously rising, particularly in boys. Flame retardants (FRs) have long been associated with increased risk, and prior work by us and others in multiple species has shown that developmental exposure to the common FR mixture Firemaster 550 (FM 550) sex-specifically alters socioemotional behaviors including anxiety and pair bond formation. In rats, FRs have also been shown to impair aspects of osmoregulation. Because vasopressin (AVP) plays a role in both socioemotional behavior and osmotic balance we hypothesized that AVP and its related nonapeptide oxytocin (OT) would be vulnerable to developmental FM 550 exposure. We used the prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaste) to test this because it is spontaneously prosocial. Using siblings of prairie voles used in a prior study that assessed behavioral deficits resulting from developmental FM 550 exposure across 3 doses, here we tested the hypothesis that FM 550 sex-specifically alters AVP and OT neuronal populations in critical nuclei, such as the paraventricular nucleus (PVN), that coordinate those behaviors, as well as related dopaminergic (determined by tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immunolabeling) populations. Exposed females had fewer AVP neurons in the anterior PVN and more A13 TH neurons in the zona incerta than controls. By contrast, in FM 550 males, A13 TH neuron numbers in the zona incerta were decreased but only in 1 dose group. These results expand on previous work showing evidence of endocrine disruption of OT/AVP pathways, including to subpopulations of PVN AVP neurons that coordinate osmoregulatory functions in the periphery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - William P Marinello
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Kevin T Cao
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Brian M Horman
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Heather M Stapleton
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Heather B Patisaul
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, NC State University, Raleigh NC 27695, USA
- Correspondence: Heather B Patisaul, Professor of Biological Sciences, NC State University, 127 David Clark Labs, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA. E-mail:
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13
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Krentzel AA, Kimble LC, Dorris DM, Horman BM, Meitzen J, Patisaul HB. FireMaster® 550 (FM 550) exposure during the perinatal period impacts partner preference behavior and nucleus accumbens core medium spiny neuron electrophysiology in adult male and female prairie voles, Microtus ochrogaster. Horm Behav 2021; 134:105019. [PMID: 34182292 PMCID: PMC8403633 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2021.105019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
One of the most widely used flame retardant (FR) mixtures in household products is Firemaster 550 (FM 550). FM 550 leaches from items such as foam-based furniture and infant products, resulting in contamination of the household environment and biota. Previous studies indicate sex-specific behavioral deficits in rodents and zebrafish in response to developmental FM 550 exposure. These deficits include impacts on social and attachment behaviors in a prosocial rodent: the prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster). The prairie vole is a laboratory-acclimated rodent that exhibits spontaneous attachment behaviors including pair bonding. Here we extend previous work by addressing how developmental exposure to FM 550 impacts pair bonding strength via an extended-time partner preference test, as well as neuron electrophysiological properties in a region implicated in pair bond behavior, the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) core. Dams were exposed to vehicle or 1000 μg of FM 550 via subcutaneous injections throughout gestation, and female and male pups were directly exposed beginning the day after birth until weaning. Pair bond behavior of adult female and male offspring was assessed using a three hour-long partner preference test. Afterwards, acute brain slices of the NAcc core were produced and medium spiny neuron electrophysiological attributes recorded via whole cell patch-clamp. Behavioral impacts were sex-specific. Partner preference behavior was increased in exposed females but decreased in exposed males. Electrophysiological impacts were similar between sexes and specific to attributes related to input resistance. Input resistance was decreased in neurons recorded from both sexes exposed to FM 550 compared to vehicle. This study supports the hypothesis that developmental exposure to FM 550 impacts attachment behaviors and demonstrates a novel FM 550 effect on neural electrophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda A Krentzel
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Laney C Kimble
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - David M Dorris
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Brian M Horman
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - John Meitzen
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.
| | - Heather B Patisaul
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
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14
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Vorkamp K, Castaño A, Antignac JP, Boada LD, Cequier E, Covaci A, Esteban López M, Haug LS, Kasper-Sonnenberg M, Koch HM, Pérez Luzardo O, Osīte A, Rambaud L, Pinorini MT, Sabbioni G, Thomsen C. Biomarkers, matrices and analytical methods targeting human exposure to chemicals selected for a European human biomonitoring initiative. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 146:106082. [PMID: 33227583 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.106082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 07/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The major purpose of human biomonitoring is the mapping and assessment of human exposure to chemicals. The European initiative HBM4EU has prioritized seven substance groups and two metals relevant for human exposure: Phthalates and substitutes (1,2-cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid diisononyl ester, DINCH), bisphenols, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), halogenated and organophosphorous flame retardants (HFRs and OPFRs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), arylamines, cadmium and chromium. As a first step towards comparable European-wide data, the most suitable biomarkers, human matrices and analytical methods for each substance group or metal were selected from the scientific literature, based on a set of selection criteria. The biomarkers included parent compounds of PFASs and HFRs in serum, of bisphenols and arylamines in urine, metabolites of phthalates, DINCH, OPFRs and PAHs in urine as well as metals in blood and urine, with a preference to measure Cr in erythrocytes representing Cr (VI) exposure. High performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was the method of choice for bisphenols, PFASs, the HFR hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD), phenolic HFRs as well as the metabolites of phthalates, DINCH, OPFRs and PAHs in urine. Gas chromatographic (GC) methods were selected for the remaining compounds, e.g. GC-low resolution MS with electron capture negative ionization (ECNI) for HFRs. Both GC-MS and LC-MS/MS were suitable for arylamines. New developments towards increased applications of GC-MS/MS may offer alternatives to GC-MS or LC-MS/MS approaches, e.g. for bisphenols. The metals were best determined by inductively coupled plasma (ICP)-MS, with the particular challenge of avoiding interferences in the Cd determination in urine. The evaluation process revealed research needs towards higher sensitivity and non-invasive sampling as well as a need for more stringent quality assurance/quality control applications and assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Vorkamp
- Aarhus University, Department of Environmental Science, Denmark.
| | - Argelia Castaño
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III, National Centre for Environmental Health, Spain.
| | | | - Luis D Boada
- University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Institute for Biomedical and Health Research, Spain.
| | | | - Adrian Covaci
- University of Antwerp, Toxicological Centre, Belgium.
| | - Marta Esteban López
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III, National Centre for Environmental Health, Spain.
| | - Line S Haug
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Norway.
| | - Monika Kasper-Sonnenberg
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance - Institute of the Ruhr-University, Germany.
| | - Holger M Koch
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance - Institute of the Ruhr-University, Germany.
| | - Octavio Pérez Luzardo
- University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Institute for Biomedical and Health Research, Spain.
| | - Agnese Osīte
- University of Latvia, Department of Analytical Chemistry, Latvia.
| | - Loïc Rambaud
- Santé Publique France, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, France.
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15
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Arvaniti OS, Kalantzi OI. Determinants of flame retardants in non-occupationally exposed individuals - A review. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 263:127923. [PMID: 32835974 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.127923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Flame retardants (FRs) constitute a large group of different substances, some of which have been phased out of the market due to health concerns, while others are still used in many common consumer products to prevent fire hazards. This review addressed the determinants of FRs in non-occupationally exposed individuals based on surveys and questionnaire data. For this literature review, three databases (Scopus, Pubmed and Web of Knowledge) were searched by applying suitable terms, inclusion and exclusion criteria, producing a final selection of 78 articles for review. Based on these surveys there is epidemiological evidence for a significant association (p < 0.05) among human exposure and demographic factors, as well as a significant correlation between exposure to FRs and behavioural and environmental factors. Age, gender, housing characteristics, electrical and electronic equipment and mouthing behaviour (in children) play a leading role in human exposure to FRs as published studies demonstrated. However, the methodological differences among studies such as population size, questionnaire design and statistical analysis did not reveal a complete pattern of human exposure routes. Risk perception and communication are also discussed based on limited available data. Knowledge gaps and future perspectives relating to standardized protocols, elucidation of contamination sources, and risk response of health information from different target groups were also identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga S Arvaniti
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Patras, Caratheodory 1, University Campus, GR-26504, Patras, Greece
| | - Olga-Ioanna Kalantzi
- Department of Environment, University of the Aegean, University Hill, Mytilene, 81100, Greece.
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16
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Witchey SK, Al Samara L, Horman BM, Stapleton HM, Patisaul HB. Perinatal exposure to FireMaster® 550 (FM550), brominated or organophosphate flame retardants produces sex and compound specific effects on adult Wistar rat socioemotional behavior. Horm Behav 2020; 126:104853. [PMID: 32949556 PMCID: PMC7726037 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2020.104853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Firemaster 550 (FM550) is a flame retardant (FR) mixture that has become one of the most commonly used FRs in household items such as foam-based furniture and baby products. Because this mixture readily leaches from products, contamination of the environment and human tissues is widespread. Prior work by us and others has reported sex-specific behavioral deficits in rodents and zebrafish following early life exposure. In an effort to understand the mechanisms by which these behavioral effects occur, here we explored the effects of its constituents on behavioral outcomes previously shown to be altered by developmental FM550 exposure. The FM550 commercial mixture is composed of two brominated compounds (BFR) and two organophosphate compounds (OPFRs) at almost equivalent proportions. Both the BFR and the OPFR components are differentially metabolized and structurally distinct, but similar to known neurotoxicants. Here we examined adult Wistar rat offspring socioemotional behaviors following perinatal exposure (oral, to the dam) to vehicle, 2000 μg/day FM550, 1000 μg/day BFR or 1000 μg/day OPFR from gestation day 0 to weaning. Beginning on postnatal day 65 offspring from all groups were subjected to a series of behavioral tasks including open field, elevated plus maze, marble burying, social interaction tests, and running wheel. Effects were exposure-, sex- and task-specific, with BFR exposure resulting in the most consistent behavioral deficits. Overall, exposed females showed more deficits compared to males across all dose groups and tasks. These findings help elucidate how different classes of flame retardants, independently and as a mixture, contribute to sex-specific behavioral effects of exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannah K Witchey
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States of America; Center for Human Health and the Environment, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States of America
| | - Loujain Al Samara
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States of America
| | - Brian M Horman
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States of America
| | - Heather M Stapleton
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, United States of America
| | - Heather B Patisaul
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States of America; Center for Human Health and the Environment, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States of America.
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17
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Crawford KA, Hawley N, Calafat AM, Jayatilaka NK, Froehlich RJ, Has P, Gallagher LG, Savitz DA, Braun JM, Werner EF, Romano ME. Maternal urinary concentrations of organophosphate ester metabolites: associations with gestational weight gain, early life anthropometry, and infant eating behaviors among mothers-infant pairs in Rhode Island. Environ Health 2020; 19:97. [PMID: 32917231 PMCID: PMC7488675 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-020-00648-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Organophosphate esters (OPEs)-used as flame retardants and plasticizers-are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes such as reduced fecundity and live births and increased preterm delivery. OPEs may interfere with growth and metabolism via endocrine-disruption, but few studies have investigated endocrine-related outcomes. The objective of this pilot study (n = 56 mother-infant pairs) was to evaluate associations of OPEs with gestational weight gain (GWG), gestational age at delivery, infant anthropometry, and infant feeding behaviors. METHODS We quantified OPE metabolites (bis-2-chloroethyl phosphate [BCEP], bis (1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate [BDCPP], diphenyl phosphate [DPHP]) in pooled maternal spot urine collected throughout pregnancy (~ 12, 28, and 35 weeks' gestation). We obtained maternal sociodemographic characteristics from questionnaires administered at enrollment and perinatal characteristics from medical record abstraction. Trained research assistants measured infant weight, length, head and abdominal circumferences, and skinfold thicknesses at birth and 6 weeks postpartum. Mothers reported infant feeding behavior via the Baby Eating Behavior Questionnaire (BEBQ). Using multiple linear regression, we assessed associations of log2-transformed maternal urinary OPE metabolites with GWG, gestational age at delivery, infant anthropometry at birth, weekly growth rate, and BEBQ scores at 6 weeks postpartum. We used linear mixed effects (LME) models to analyze overall infant anthropometry during the first 6 weeks of life. Additionally, we considered effect modification by infant sex. RESULTS We observed weak positive associations between all OPE metabolites and GWG. In LME models, BDCPP was associated with increased infant length (β = 0.44 cm, 95%CI = 0.01, 0.87) and weight in males (β = 0.14 kg, 95%CI = 0.03, 0.24). BDCPP was also associated with increased food responsiveness (β = 0.23, 95%CI = 0.06, 0.40). DPHP was inversely associated with infant abdominal circumference (β = - 0.50 cm, 95%CI = - 0.86, - 0.14) and female weight (β = - 0.19 kg, 95%CI = - 0.36, - 0.02), but positively associated with weekly growth in iliac skinfold thickness (β = 0.10 mm/wk., 95%CI = 0.02, 0.19). Further, DPHP was weakly associated with increased feeding speed. BCEP was associated with greater infant thigh skinfold thickness (β = 0.34 mm, 95%CI = 0.16, 0.52) and subscapular skinfold thickness in males (β = 0.14 mm, 95%CI = 0.002, 0.28). CONCLUSIONS Collectively, these findings suggest that select OPEs may affect infant anthropometry and feeding behavior, with the most compelling evidence for BDCPP and DPHP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn A. Crawford
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH USA
- Current Address: Program in Environmental Studies, Middlebury College, Middlebury, VT USA
| | - Nicola Hawley
- Department of Epidemiology, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT USA
| | - Antonia M. Calafat
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Nayana K. Jayatilaka
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Rosemary J. Froehlich
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | - Phinnara Has
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Women & Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, RI USA
| | - Lisa G. Gallagher
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH USA
| | - David A. Savitz
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Joseph M. Braun
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI USA
| | - Erika F. Werner
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Women & Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, RI USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Megan E. Romano
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH USA
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18
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Chen Y, Guo M, Liu R, Ma LQ, Cui X. Effects of novel brominated flame retardants and metabolites on cytotoxicity in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 253:126653. [PMID: 32302898 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.126653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs) have been widely used and frequently detected in various environmental matrices. In this study, 2-ethylhexyl-2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate (TBB), bis-(2-ethylhexyl) tetrabromophthalate (TBPH) and their metabolites (namely 2,3,4,5-tetra-bromo benzoic acid (TBBA) and mono(2-ethylhexyl) tetrabromophthalate (TBMEHP)) were exposed to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Metabolites can induce stronger cytotoxicity than parent compounds with EC50 at 47.3 (TBBA), 8.6 μg/ml (TBMEHP) vs > 200 μg/mL for parent compounds. Gene expression of platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1, the gene associated with blood platelet kinetics, was significantly induced under TBBA and TBMEHP exposure. The in vivo test was consistent with gene expression result that the number of platelets in mouse blood was significantly increased after gavaged with 0.8 μg/mL TBBA and TBMEHP. In addition, TBB or TBPH were exposed to mice via gavage, and higher concentrations of TBBA (4 h, 60.8 ± 12.9 ng/mL, 8 h, 69.4 ± 2.24 ng/mL) in mouse blood were found than those of TBMEHP (4 h, 17.2 ± 4.01 ng/mL, 8 h, 12.8 ± 3.20 ng/mL), indicating that TBB was more readily in vivo metabolized than TBPH. The in vivo metabolism of TBB and TBPH and the stronger toxicity of their metabolites underscore the potential risk through NBFR exposure and the importance of understanding NBFR metabolism process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210046, China
| | - Mengfan Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210046, China
| | - Rongyan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210046, China
| | - Lena Q Ma
- Institute of Soil and Water Resources and Environmental Science, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| | - Xinyi Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210046, China.
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19
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Buckley JP, Barrett ES, Beamer PI, Bennett DH, Bloom MS, Fennell TR, Fry RC, Funk WE, Hamra GB, Hecht SS, Kannan K, Iyer R, Karagas MR, Lyall K, Parsons PJ, Pellizzari ED, Signes-Pastor AJ, Starling AP, Wang A, Watkins DJ, Zhang M, Woodruff TJ. Opportunities for evaluating chemical exposures and child health in the United States: the Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) Program. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2020; 30:397-419. [PMID: 32066883 PMCID: PMC7183426 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-020-0211-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) Program will evaluate environmental factors affecting children's health (perinatal, neurodevelopmental, obesity, respiratory, and positive health outcomes) by pooling cohorts composed of >50,000 children in the largest US study of its kind. Our objective was to identify opportunities for studying chemicals and child health using existing or future ECHO chemical exposure data. We described chemical-related information collected by ECHO cohorts and reviewed ECHO-relevant literature on exposure routes, sources, and environmental and human monitoring. Fifty-six ECHO cohorts have existing or planned chemical biomonitoring data for mothers or children. Environmental phenols/parabens, phthalates, metals/metalloids, and tobacco biomarkers are each being measured by ≥15 cohorts, predominantly during pregnancy and childhood, indicating ample opportunities to study child health outcomes. Cohorts are collecting questionnaire data on multiple exposure sources and conducting environmental monitoring including air, dust, and water sample collection that could be used for exposure assessment studies. To supplement existing chemical data, we recommend biomonitoring of emerging chemicals, nontargeted analysis to identify novel chemicals, and expanded measurement of chemicals in alternative biological matrices and dust samples. ECHO's rich data and samples represent an unprecedented opportunity to accelerate environmental chemical research to improve the health of US children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessie P Buckley
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
| | - Emily S Barrett
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Paloma I Beamer
- Department of Community, Environment and Policy, Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Deborah H Bennett
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Michael S Bloom
- Departments of Environmental Health Sciences and Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Timothy R Fennell
- Discovery Sciences, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Rebecca C Fry
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - William E Funk
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ghassan B Hamra
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Stephen S Hecht
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Kurunthachalam Kannan
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, USA
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Ramsunder Iyer
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Margaret R Karagas
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Kristen Lyall
- A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Patrick J Parsons
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, USA
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Edo D Pellizzari
- Fellows Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | - Anne P Starling
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Aolin Wang
- Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Deborah J Watkins
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Mingyu Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Tracey J Woodruff
- Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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20
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Developmental Exposure to the Flame Retardant Mixture Firemaster 550 Compromises Adult Bone Integrity in Male but not Female Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21072553. [PMID: 32272586 PMCID: PMC7178223 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Flame retardants (FRs) are used in a variety of common items from furniture to carpet to electronics to reduce flammability and combustion, but the potential toxicity of these compounds is raising health concerns globally. Organophosphate FRs (OPFRs) are becoming more prevalent as older, brominated FRs are phased out, but the toxicity of these compounds, and the FR mixtures that contain them, is poorly understood. Work in a variety of in vitro model systems has suggested that FRs may induce metabolic reprogramming such that bone density is compromised at the expense of increasing adiposity. To address this hypothesis, the present studies maternally exposed Wistar rat dams orally across gestation and lactation to 1000 µg daily of the FR mixture Firemaster 550 (FM 550) which contains a mixture of brominated FRs and OPFRs. At six months of age, the offspring of both sexes were examined for evidence of compromised bone composition. Bone density, composition, and marrow were all significantly affected, but only in males. The fact that the phenotype was observed months after exposure suggests that FM 550 altered some fundamental aspect of mesenchymal stem cell reprogramming. The severity of the phenotype and the human-relevance of the dose employed, affirm this is an adverse outcome meriting further exploration.
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21
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Percy Z, La Guardia MJ, Xu Y, Hale RC, Dietrich KN, Lanphear BP, Yolton K, Vuong AM, Cecil KM, Braun JM, Xie C, Chen A. Concentrations and loadings of organophosphate and replacement brominated flame retardants in house dust from the home study during the PBDE phase-out. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 239:124701. [PMID: 31499316 PMCID: PMC6854320 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.124701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers, a class of flame retardants and endocrine disruptors, have been substituted in new products by organophosphate (OPFR) and replacement brominated flame retardants (RBFR). OPFRs and RBFRs readily migrate from consumer products into dust where humans are exposed via incidental ingestion and inhalation. We quantified concentrations and loadings of OPFRs and RBFRs in house dust samples (n = 317) collected from the homes of Cincinnati women between 2003 and 2006 and examined their associations with demographic and house characteristics. Tris-(1-chloro-2-propyl)-phosphate (TCIPP, geometric mean [GM]: 2140 ng g-1, range: 70.1-166,000 ng g-1), tris-(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl)-phosphate (TDCIPP, GM: 1840 ng g-1, range: 55.2-228,000 ng g-1), triphenyl phosphate (TPHP, GM: 1070 ng g-1, range: 34.1-62,100 ng g-1), 2-ethylhexyl-2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate (EH-TBB, GM: 59.5 ng g-1, range: 2.82-7800 ng g-1), and bis-(2-ethylhexyl)-tetrabromophthalate (BEH-TEBP, GM: 121 ng g-1, range 2.17-13,600 ng g-1) were all detected in >90% of dust samples; tris-(2-chloroethyl)-phosphate (TCEP, GM: 669 ng g-1, range: 56.8-160,000 ng g-1) was detected in 80.1% of samples. Concentrations of EH-TBB and BEH-TEBP increased in house dust from 2003 to 2006. The number of people living in the home, race, education, floor type, and year of sample collection were associated with some OPFR and RBFR concentrations and loadings. This study suggests that OPFRs and RBFRs were ubiquitous in house dust during the PBDE phase-out and justifies more research on the consequences of exposure to these environmental chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zana Percy
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Mark J La Guardia
- Virginia Institute of Marine Science, William and Mary, Gloucester Point, VA, USA
| | - Yingying Xu
- Department of General Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Robert C Hale
- Virginia Institute of Marine Science, William and Mary, Gloucester Point, VA, USA
| | - Kim N Dietrich
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Bruce P Lanphear
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Kimberly Yolton
- Department of General Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Ann M Vuong
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA; School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Kim M Cecil
- Imaging Research Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Joseph M Braun
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Changchun Xie
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Aimin Chen
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
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22
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Xiong P, Yan X, Zhu Q, Qu G, Shi J, Liao C, Jiang G. A Review of Environmental Occurrence, Fate, and Toxicity of Novel Brominated Flame Retardants. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2019; 53:13551-13569. [PMID: 31682424 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.9b03159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Use of legacy brominated flame retardants (BFRs), including polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD), has been reduced due to adverse effects of these chemicals. Several novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs), such decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) and bis(2,4,6-tribromophenoxy) ethane (BTBPE), have been developed as replacements for PBDEs. NBFRs are used in various industrial and consumer products, which leads to their ubiquitous occurrence in the environment. This article reviews occurrence and fate of a select group of NBFRs in the environment, as well as their human exposure and toxicity. Occurrence of NBFRs in both abiotic, including air, water, dust, soil, sediment and sludge, and biotic matrices, including bird, fish, and human serum, have been documented. Evidence regarding the degradation, including photodegradation, thermal degradation and biodegradation, and bioaccumulation and biomagnification of NBFRs is summarized. The toxicity data of NBFRs show that several NBFRs can cause adverse effects through different modes of action, such as hormone disruption, endocrine disruption, genotoxicity, and behavioral modification. The primary ecological risk assessment shows that most NBFRs exert no significant environmental risk, but it is worth noting that the result should be carefully used owing to the limited toxicity data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Xiong
- 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
| | - Xueting Yan
- 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
| | - Guangbo Qu
- 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
- Institute of Environment and Health , Jianghan University , Wuhan , Hubei 430056 , China
| | - Jianbo Shi
- 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
- Institute of Environment and Health , Jianghan University , Wuhan , Hubei 430056 , China
| | - Chunyang Liao
- 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
- Institute of Environment and Health , Jianghan University , Wuhan , Hubei 430056 , China
| | - Guibin Jiang
- 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
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23
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Gillera SEA, Marinello WP, Horman BM, Phillips AL, Ruis MT, Stapleton HM, Reif DM, Patisaul HB. Sex-specific effects of perinatal FireMaster® 550 (FM 550) exposure on socioemotional behavior in prairie voles. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2019; 79:106840. [PMID: 31730801 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2019.106840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The rapidly rising incidence of neurodevelopmental disorders with social deficits is raising concern that developmental exposure to environmental contaminants may be contributory. Firemaster 550 (FM 550) is one of the most prevalent flame-retardant (FR) mixtures used in foam-based furniture and baby products and contains both brominated and organophosphate components. We and others have published evidence of developmental neurotoxicity and sex specific effects of FM 550 on anxiety-like and exploratory behaviors. Using a prosocial animal model, we investigated the impact of perinatal FM 550 exposure on a range of socioemotional behaviors including anxiety, attachment, and memory. Virtually unknown to toxicologists, but widely used in the behavioral neurosciences, the prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster) is a uniquely valuable model organism for examining environmental factors on sociality because this species is spontaneously prosocial, biparental, and displays attachment behaviors including pair bonding. Dams were exposed to 0, 500, 1000, or 2000 μg of FM 550 via subcutaneous (sc) injections throughout gestation, and pups were directly exposed beginning the day after birth until weaning. Adult offspring of both sexes were then subjected to multiple tasks including open field, novel object recognition, and partner preference. Effects were dose responsive and sex-specific, with females more greatly affected. Exposure-related outcomes in females included elevated anxiety, decreased social interaction, decreased exploratory motivation, and aversion to novelty. Exposed males also had social deficits, with males in all three dose groups failing to show a partner preference. Our studies demonstrate the utility of the prairie vole for investigating the impact of chemical exposures on social behavior and support the hypothesis that developmental FR exposure impacts the social brain. Future studies will probe the possible mechanisms by which these effects arise.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - William P Marinello
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Brian M Horman
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Allison L Phillips
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Matthew T Ruis
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Heather M Stapleton
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - David M Reif
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; Bioinformatics Research Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Heather B Patisaul
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA; Center for Human Health and the Environment, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.
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24
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Dembsey NA, Brokaw FM, Stapleton HM, Dodson RE, Onasch J, Jazan E, Carignan CC. Intervention to reduce gymnast exposure to flame retardants from pit foam: A case study. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2019; 127:868-875. [PMID: 30922522 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2019.01.084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Gymnasts can have high exposures to flame retardants (FRs), which are used in gymnastics safety equipment such as the loose foam pit. Therefore, we aimed to reduce gymnast exposure to FRs by replacing the foam in the pit using foam free of additive FR and measuring personal exposure during practice using hand-wipes. To assure maintenance of fire safety we first conducted a flammability study and facilitated a fire inspection for our partner gym. The FR-treated cubes had similar heat release rates to the non-FR treated cubes, required a 11 cm larger flame size applied for 6 s longer to ignite, and took 4 min longer to reach peak flame height. Based on these findings and the presence of other fire safety measures including smoke detectors and a sprinkler system, the local fire and building departments approved replacement of the foam pit with FR-free foam. We then replaced foam in the gym's pit, verified it was free of any additive FRs, and quantified common halogenated and organophosphate FRs on hand-wipes collected from ten collegiate gymnasts before and after practice, pre- and post-intervention. We observed a 5-fold decline in the median mass of FRs found in pit foam that accumulated on hand-wipes during practice among gymnasts who used the foam pit (p = 0.02), indicating that replacing the foam in a pit using materials free of FRs can reduce gymnast exposure to these chemicals during practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Dembsey
- Department of Fire Protection Engineering, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, USA.
| | - Frederick M Brokaw
- Department of Fire Protection Engineering, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, USA.
| | | | | | - Joy Onasch
- Toxics Use Reduction Institute, University of Massachusetts at Lowell, Lowell, MA, USA.
| | - Elisa Jazan
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA.
| | - Courtney C Carignan
- Department Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA; Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.
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25
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Tang S, Tan H, Liu X, Chen D. Legacy and alternative flame retardants in house dust and hand wipes from South China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 656:1-8. [PMID: 30502730 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.11.369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Revised: 11/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/24/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The present study investigated the occurrence of legacy and alternative halogenated flame retardants (FRs) in house dust (n = 51) from Guangzhou, South China and hand wipes collected from adults (n = 51) and children (n = 31). In addition to polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) congeners (particularly BDE-209), several alternative FRs were also detected in >60% of dust samples, including decabromodiphenylethane (DBDPE; median: 4600 ng/g), bis(2-ethylhexyl)-3,4,5,6-tetrabromo-phthalate (BEH-TEBP; 43.9 ng/g), 1,2-bis(2,4,6-tribormophenoxy)ethane (BTBPE; 9.2 ng/g), pentabromotoluene (PBT; 10.1 ng/g), and syn- and anti-dechlorane plus (DPs, 24.5 ng/g). BDE-47, BDE-209, DBDPE, BEH-TEBP, and DPs were also frequently detected on hand wipes from children (median mass: 0.1-1.1 ng) and adults (0.1-1.2 ng). Linear regression models suggest that dust concentrations of BDE-47 and DPs had significant or marginally significant associations with their masses on children's (10β = 2.82; 95% CI: 1.20, 6.64 and 10β = 5.57, 95% CI: 1.85, 16.75, respectively) and adults' hands (10β = 4.46; 95% CI: 0.92, 21.58 and 10β = 5.11; 95% CI: 1.74, 14.96, respectively), whereas no association was observed for any other FRs. Most of the investigated demographic, environmental, or behavioral factors did not significantly influence the levels of halogenated FRs on human hands. Estimation of human exposure risks via hand-to-mouth contact and dust ingestion indicates that children are subjected to elevated exposure than adults, and the relative importance of the two pathways is chemical-specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuqin Tang
- School of Environment and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Hongli Tan
- School of Environment and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xiaotu Liu
- School of Environment and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Da Chen
- School of Environment and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
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26
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Beaucham CC, Ceballos D, Mueller C, Page E, La Guardia MJ. Field evaluation of sequential hand wipes for flame retardant exposure in an electronics recycling facility. CHEMOSPHERE 2019; 219:472-481. [PMID: 30551114 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Revised: 12/02/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Flame retardants have been associated with endocrine disorders, thyroid disruption, reproductive toxicity, and immunological interference. Through dismantling and recycling electronics and electric products, flame retardants can be released into the air and settle on work surfaces which may lead to dermal exposure. Hand wipe sampling is commonly used to evaluate dermal exposure. This study assesses the removal efficiency of wipes on the hands of recycling employees, and to compare the efficacy of two common surface wipe sampling materials. We used three sequential hand wipes and quantified the percentage of flame retardants that was removed by each hand wipe in the sequence. Two common wipe materials (gauze and twill) were used to compare the ability to remove flame retardants. The wipes were collected from 12 employees at a U.S. electronics recycling facility immediately at the end of their shift, prior to washing their hands. Results show that although the first wipe removed the highest median percent of the sum of the three wipes for most flame retardants, there was a wide range of the percentages of total individual flame retardants removed by both gauze (4%-98%) or twill hand wipe (1%-89%). Approximately half of the flame retardants a high percentage (>50%) removed by the second and third wipes. This suggests that a single wipe is not sufficient to characterize the extent of dermal contamination. The average of the total amount of flame retardants removed by twill wipes was greater than the average using gauze, but the difference was not statistically significant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine C Beaucham
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Surveillance, Hazard Evaluations, and Field Studies, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | - Diana Ceballos
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Charles Mueller
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Surveillance, Hazard Evaluations, and Field Studies, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Elena Page
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Surveillance, Hazard Evaluations, and Field Studies, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Mark J La Guardia
- College of William & Mary, Virginia Institute of Marine Science, Department Aquatic Health Sciences, Gloucester Point, VA, USA
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27
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Gibson EA, Stapleton HM, Calero L, Holmes D, Burke K, Martinez R, Cortes B, Nematollahi A, Evans D, Herbstman JB. Flame retardant exposure assessment: findings from a behavioral intervention study. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2019; 29:33-48. [PMID: 29950671 PMCID: PMC6460909 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-018-0049-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/06/2018] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have been largely replaced by organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) and alternative brominated flame retardants (Alt-BFRs) to meet flammability requirements. Humans are ubiquitously exposed to some variety of flame retardants through contact with consumer products directly or through household dust. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness of house cleaning and hand washing practices to reduce exposure to flame retardants, we measured concentrations in dermal hand wipes and urinary metabolites before and after assignment to two consecutive interventions. METHODS We selected 32 mother and child dyads from an existing cohort. This analysis focuses on mothers. Participants provided baseline measurements (urine, hand wipes, and questionnaires) and were then assigned for 1 week to either a house cleaning (including instruction on proper technique and cleaning supplies) or hand washing (including instruction on proper technique and soaps) intervention arm. For the second week, participants were assigned to the second intervention in addition to their initial assignment, thus all subjects both washed their hands and cleaned according to the intervention guidelines during week 2. We collected measurements at the end of weeks 1 and 2. RESULTS We found reductions in urinary analytes after week 1 of house cleaning (BCIPHIPP and ip-DPHP), week 1 of hand washing (BCIPP, BCIPHIPP, and tbutyl-DPHP), and week 2 of combined interventions (BCIPHIPP and tbutyl-DPHP), compare to baseline. We found no significant decline in hand wipes in the entire sample but did find reductions after week 1 of house cleaning (BDE 209), week 1 of hand washing (TCEP), and week 2 of combined interventions (TDCIPP and BDE 209) in women with exposure above the median at baseline (verified through simulations). CONCLUSIONS Exposure to individual flame retardants was reduced by about half, in some cases, by 1 week of increased hand washing, house cleaning to reduce dust, or combined activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Gibson
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | | | - Lehyla Calero
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Darrell Holmes
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Kimberly Burke
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Rodney Martinez
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Boris Cortes
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Amy Nematollahi
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - David Evans
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Julie B Herbstman
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
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28
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Hammel SC, Phillips AL, Hoffman K, Stapleton HM. Evaluating the Use of Silicone Wristbands To Measure Personal Exposure to Brominated Flame Retardants. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2018; 52:11875-11885. [PMID: 30216050 PMCID: PMC6445795 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.8b03755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Biomarkers remain the gold standard for assessing chemical exposure. However, silicone wristbands may provide some added benefits for characterizing personal exposures compared to single biomarker measurements, such as decreased costs, noninvasive sampling, and increased ease of analysis. Previously, we validated their use in characterizing exposure to organophosphate flame retardants (PFRs). However, it is unclear whether these results would extend to chemicals like polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), which biomagnify and have longer half-lives than PFRs in the body. This study sought to determine if accumulation of PBDEs on wristbands was correlated to serum biomarkers. Adult participants ( n = 30) provided serum samples and wore wristbands for 7 days. PBDEs and 6 novel brominated flame retardants (BFRs) were measured on wristbands, and serum samples were analyzed for PBDE biomarkers. Like most PBDE congeners, 5 of 6 novel BFRs were frequently detected on wristbands (≥90% of bands). In particular, decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) was detected in all wristbands in this study and was significantly correlated with BDE-209, suggesting a similar source and exposure pathway. Wristband levels of BDE-47, -99, -100, and -153 were significantly and positively associated with respective serum biomarkers ( rs = 0.39-0.57, p < 0.05). This study demonstrates that silicone wristbands can accurately detect personal PBDE exposures.
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29
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Salthammer T, Zhang Y, Mo J, Koch HM, Weschler CJ. Erfassung der Humanexposition mit organischen Verbindungen in Innenraumumgebungen. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201711023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tunga Salthammer
- Fachbereich Materialanalytik und Innenluftchemie; Fraunhofer WKI; 38108 Braunschweig Bienroder Weg 54E Deutschland
| | - Yinping Zhang
- Department of Building Science; Tsinghua University; Beijing Key Laboratory of Indoor Air Quality Evaluation and Control; Beijing 100084 PR China
| | - Jinhan Mo
- Department of Building Science; Tsinghua University; Beijing Key Laboratory of Indoor Air Quality Evaluation and Control; Beijing 100084 PR China
| | - Holger M. Koch
- Institut für Prävention und Arbeitsmedizin der Deutschen Gesetzlichen Unfallversicherung (IPA); Institut der Ruhr-Universität Bochum; 44789 Bochum Bürkle-de-la-Camp Platz 1 Deutschland
| | - Charles J. Weschler
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI); Rutgers University; 170 Frelinghuysen Road Piscataway NJ 08854 USA
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30
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Salthammer T, Zhang Y, Mo J, Koch HM, Weschler CJ. Assessing Human Exposure to Organic Pollutants in the Indoor Environment. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.201711023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tunga Salthammer
- Department of Material Analysis and Indoor Chemistry; Fraunhofer WKI; 38108 Braunschweig Bienroder Weg 54E Germany
| | - Yinping Zhang
- Department of Building Science; Tsinghua University; Beijing Key Laboratory of Indoor Air Quality Evaluation and Control; Beijing 100084 PR China
| | - Jinhan Mo
- Department of Building Science; Tsinghua University; Beijing Key Laboratory of Indoor Air Quality Evaluation and Control; Beijing 100084 PR China
| | - Holger M. Koch
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance (IPA); Institute of the Ruhr-University Bochum; 44789 Bochum Bürkle-de-la-Camp Platz 1 Germany
| | - Charles J. Weschler
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI); Rutgers University; 170 Frelinghuysen Road Piscataway NJ 08854 USA
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31
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Ceballos DM, Broadwater K, Page E, Croteau G, La Guardia MJ. Occupational exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and other flame retardant foam additives at gymnastics studios: Before, during and after the replacement of pit foam with PBDE-free foams. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2018; 116:1-9. [PMID: 29630944 PMCID: PMC9191751 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2018.03.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Revised: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Coaches spend long hours training gymnasts of all ages aided by polyurethane foam used in loose blocks, mats, and other padded equipment. Polyurethane foam can contain flame retardant additives such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), to delay the spread of fires. However, flame retardants have been associated with endocrine disruption and carcinogenicity. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) evaluated employee exposure to flame retardants in four gymnastics studios utilized by recreational and competitive gymnasts. We evaluated flame retardant exposure at the gymnastics studios before, during, and after the replacement of foam blocks used in safety pits with foam blocks certified not to contain several flame retardants, including PBDEs. We collected hand wipes on coaches to measure levels of flame retardants on skin before and after their work shift. We measured flame retardant levels in the dust on window glass in the gymnastics areas and office areas, and in the old and new foam blocks used throughout the gymnastics studios. We found statistically higher levels of 9 out of 13 flame retardants on employees' hands after work than before, and this difference was reduced after the foam replacement. Windows in the gymnastics areas had higher levels of 3 of the 13 flame retardants than windows outside the gymnastics areas, suggesting that dust and vapor containing flame retardants became airborne. Mats and other padded equipment contained levels of bromine consistent with the amount of brominated flame retardants in foam samples analyzed in the laboratory. New blocks did not contain PBDEs, but did contain the flame retardants 2-ethylhexyl 2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate and 2-ethylhexyl 2,3,4,5-tetrabromophthalate. We conclude that replacing the pit foam blocks eliminated a source of PBDEs, but not 2-ethylhexyl 2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate and 2-ethylhexyl 2,3,4,5-tetrabromophthalate. We recommend ways to further minimize employee exposure to flame retardants at work and acknowledge the challenges consumers have identifying chemical contents of new products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana M Ceballos
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kendra Broadwater
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Surveillance, Hazard Evaluations, and Field Studies, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Corresponding author at: 1090 Tusculum Avenue Mailstop R-11, Cincinnati, Ohio 45226, USA..
| | - Elena Page
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Surveillance, Hazard Evaluations, and Field Studies, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Gerry Croteau
- Field Research and Consultation Group, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Mark J La Guardia
- Virginia Institute of Marine Science, College of William & Mary, Gloucester Point, VA, USA
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Tay JH, Sellström U, Papadopoulou E, Padilla-Sánchez JA, Haug LS, de Wit CA. Assessment of dermal exposure to halogenated flame retardants: Comparison using direct measurements from hand wipes with an indirect estimation from settled dust concentrations. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2018; 115:285-294. [PMID: 29621716 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2018.03.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 03/23/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
There are few studies estimating dermal exposure to halogenated flame retardants in adults. To fill this gap, sixty-one hand wipe samples were collected from a Norwegian adult cohort using gauze pads immersed in isopropanol. BDE-47, BDE-209, bis(2‑ethyl‑hexyl)‑3,4,5,6‑tetrabromophthalate (BEH-TEBP) and decabromodiphenylethane (DBDPE) were the most frequently detected chemicals. The highest median mass in hand wipes was that of sumEHFR (570 ng), followed by sumHBCDD (180 ng) and sumPBDE (2.9 ng). The high EHFR level was mainly driven by tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) which accounted for 77% of the total mass. Positive and significant correlations were observed between FR levels in hand wipes and settled dust (0.26 < r < 0.56, p < 0.05), as well as between FR levels in hand wipes and the number of electronic consumer products at home (0.27 < r < 0.40, p < 0.05). Significant bivariate associations with number of laptops/tablets and phones/mobiles were further confirmed by multivariate linear regression analyses. Dermal exposure was estimated using the levels measured in handwipes. The estimated median dermal exposure was 2600, 840 and 6.2 pg/kg bw/d for sumEHFR, sumHBCDD and sumPBDE, respectively. Further, we compared these results with the dermal exposure as estimated indirectly by utilizing previously reported FR levels in settled dust collected from the residences of the same studied cohort. With the indirect approach, higher dermal exposures to sumPBDE but lower exposures to sumEHFR and sumHBCDD were observed compared to the direct dermal exposure estimated via hand wipes. Comparable exposure estimates between hand wipes and the indirect method were obtained for α‑, β‑tetrabromoethylcyclohexane (DBE-DBCH), DBDPE, BDE-28, -35, -49, -99, -153, 154, and -183. For other individual HFRs, the exposure estimates obtained from the two approaches were significantly different (Mann-Whitney U test, p < 0.05). Both methods gave similar dermal exposure estimates for many individual FRs. However, it is important to be aware of the value and limitations of each method when using them to estimate human exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joo Hui Tay
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES), Stockholm University, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Ulla Sellström
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES), Stockholm University, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eleni Papadopoulou
- Department of Environmental Exposure and Epidemiology, Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH), Lovisenberggata 8, Oslo, Norway
| | - Juan Antonio Padilla-Sánchez
- Department of Environmental Exposure and Epidemiology, Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH), Lovisenberggata 8, Oslo, Norway
| | - Line Småstuen Haug
- Department of Environmental Exposure and Epidemiology, Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH), Lovisenberggata 8, Oslo, Norway
| | - Cynthia A de Wit
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES), Stockholm University, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
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Rock KD, Horman B, Phillips AL, McRitchie SL, Watson S, Deese-Spruill J, Jima D, Sumner S, Stapleton HM, Patisaul HB. EDC IMPACT: Molecular effects of developmental FM 550 exposure in Wistar rat placenta and fetal forebrain. Endocr Connect 2018; 7:305-324. [PMID: 29351906 PMCID: PMC5817967 DOI: 10.1530/ec-17-0373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Firemaster 550 (FM 550) is a flame retardant (FR) mixture that has become one of the most commonly used FRs in foam-based furniture and baby products. Human exposure to this commercial mixture, composed of brominated and organophosphate components, is widespread. We have repeatedly shown that developmental exposure can lead to sex-specific behavioral effects in rats. Accruing evidence of endocrine disruption and potential neurotoxicity has raised concerns regarding the neurodevelopmental effects of FM 550 exposure, but the specific mechanisms of action remains unclear. Additionally, we observed significant, and in some cases sex-specific, accumulation of FM 550 in placental tissue following gestational exposure. Because the placenta is an important source of hormones and neurotransmitters for the developing brain, it may be a critical target of toxicity to consider in the context of developmental neurotoxicity. Using a mixture of targeted and exploratory approaches, the goal of the present study was to identify possible mechanisms of action in the developing forebrain and placenta. Wistar rat dams were orally exposed to FM 550 (0, 300 or 1000 µg/day) for 10 days during gestation and placenta and fetal forebrain tissue collected for analysis. In placenta, evidence of endocrine, inflammatory and neurotransmitter signaling pathway disruption was identified. Notably, 5-HT turnover was reduced in placental tissue and fetal forebrains indicating that 5-HT signaling between the placenta and the embryonic brain may be disrupted. These findings demonstrate that environmental contaminants, like FM 550, have the potential to impact the developing brain by disrupting normal placental functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kylie D Rock
- Department of Biological SciencesNorth Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Brian Horman
- Department of Biological SciencesNorth Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Allison L Phillips
- Nicholas School of the EnvironmentDuke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Susan L McRitchie
- NIH Eastern Regional Comprehensive Metabolomics Res. CoreUniv. of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Scott Watson
- NIH Eastern Regional Comprehensive Metabolomics Res. CoreUniv. of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jocelin Deese-Spruill
- NIH Eastern Regional Comprehensive Metabolomics Res. CoreUniv. of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Dereje Jima
- Center for Human Health and the EnvironmentNorth Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
- Bioinformatics Research CenterNorth Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Susan Sumner
- NIH Eastern Regional Comprehensive Metabolomics Res. CoreUniv. of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Center for Human Health and the EnvironmentNorth Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Heather M Stapleton
- Nicholas School of the EnvironmentDuke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Heather B Patisaul
- Department of Biological SciencesNorth Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
- Center for Human Health and the EnvironmentNorth Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
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Hoffman K, Lorenzo A, Butt CM, Hammel SC, Henderson BB, Roman SA, Scheri RP, Stapleton HM, Sosa JA. Exposure to flame retardant chemicals and occurrence and severity of papillary thyroid cancer: A case-control study. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2017; 107:235-242. [PMID: 28772138 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2017.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Revised: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thyroid cancer is the fastest increasing cancer in the U.S., and papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) accounts for >80% of incident cases. Increasing exposure to flame retardant chemicals (FRs) has raised concerns about their possible role in this 'epidemic'. The current study was designed to test the hypothesis that higher exposure to FRs is associated with increased odds of PTC. METHODS PTC patients at the Duke Cancer Institute were approached and invited to participate. Age- and gender-matched controls were recruited from the Duke Health System and surrounding communities. Because suitable biomarkers of long-term exposure do not exist for many common FRs, and levels of FRs in dust are significantly correlated with exposure, relationships between FRs in household dust and PTC were evaluated in addition to available biomarkers. PTC status, measures of aggressiveness (e.g. tumor size) and BRAF V600E mutation were included as outcomes. RESULTS Higher levels of some FRs, particularly decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209) and tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate in dust, were associated with increased odds of PTC. Participants with dust BDE-209 concentrations above the median level were 2.29 times as likely to have PTC [95% confidence interval: 1.03, 5.08] compared to those with low BDE-209 concentrations. Associations varied based on tumor aggressiveness and mutation status; TCEP was more strongly associated with larger, more aggressive tumors and BDE-209 was associated with smaller, less aggressive tumors. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, these results suggest exposure to FRs in the home, particularly BDE-209 and TCEP, may be associated with PTC occurrence and severity, and warrant further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Hoffman
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States
| | - Amelia Lorenzo
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States
| | - Craig M Butt
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States
| | - Stephanie C Hammel
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States
| | - Brittany Bohinc Henderson
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center and Wake Forest Comprehensive Cancer Center, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, United States
| | - Sanziana A Roman
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, United States
| | - Randall P Scheri
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, United States
| | - Heather M Stapleton
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States
| | - Julie Ann Sosa
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, United States; Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, United States; Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, United States; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, United States.
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Risk assessment and Biomonitoring Equivalent for 2-ethylhexyl-2,3,4,5 tetrabromobenzoate (TBB) and tetrabromobenzoic acid (TBBA). Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2017; 89:186-192. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2017.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Revised: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 07/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Hammel SC, Hoffman K, Lorenzo AM, Chen A, Phillips AL, Butt CM, Sosa JA, Webster TF, Stapleton HM. Associations between flame retardant applications in furniture foam, house dust levels, and residents' serum levels. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2017; 107:181-189. [PMID: 28750223 PMCID: PMC5572835 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2017.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2017] [Revised: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Polyurethane foam (PUF) in upholstered furniture frequently is treated with flame retardant chemicals (FRs) to reduce its flammability and adhere to rigorous flammability standards. For decades, a commercial mixture of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) called PentaBDE was commonly applied to foam to fulfill these regulations; however, concerns over toxicity, bioaccumulation, and persistence led to a global phase-out in the mid-2000s. Although PentaBDE is still detected in older furniture, other FR compounds such as tris(1,3-dichloroisopropyl) phosphate (TDCIPP) and Firemaster® 550 (FM550) have been increasingly used as replacements. While biomonitoring studies suggest exposure is widespread, the primary sources of exposure are not clearly known. Here, we investigated the relationships between specific FR applications in furniture foam and human exposure. Paired samples of furniture foam, house dust and serum samples were collected from a cohort in North Carolina, USA and analyzed for FRs typically used in PUF. In general, the presence of a specific FR in the sofa of a home was associated with an increase in the concentration of that FR in house dust. For example, the presence of PentaBDE in sofas was associated with significantly higher levels of BDE-47, a major component of PentaBDE, in house dust (10β=6.4, p<0.001). A similar association was observed with a component of FM550, 2-ethylhexyl-2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate (EH-TBB), with levels that were approximately 3 times higher in house dust when FM550 was identified in the sofa foam (p<0.01). These relationships were modified by dust loading rates in the living room and the ratio of sofa size to room size. Interestingly, levels of TDCIPP and tris(1-chloro-2-isopropyl) phosphate (TCIPP) were also higher in dust with detections in sofa foam; however, these associations were not statistically significant and may suggest there are other prominent sources of these compounds in the home. In addition, the presence of PentaBDE in sofa foam was associated with significantly higher levels of BDE-47 in serum (p<0.01). These results suggest that FR applications in sofas are likely major sources of exposure to these compounds in the home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie C Hammel
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States.
| | - Kate Hoffman
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States.
| | - Amelia M Lorenzo
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States.
| | - Albert Chen
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Allison L Phillips
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States.
| | - Craig M Butt
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Julie Ann Sosa
- Department of Surgery, Duke Cancer Institute, and Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States.
| | - Thomas F Webster
- Boston University School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States.
| | - Heather M Stapleton
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States.
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Tung EWY, Peshdary V, Gagné R, Rowan-Carroll A, Yauk CL, Boudreau A, Atlas E. Adipogenic Effects and Gene Expression Profiling of Firemaster® 550 Components in Human Primary Preadipocytes. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2017; 125:097013. [PMID: 28934090 PMCID: PMC5915190 DOI: 10.1289/ehp1318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2016] [Revised: 05/18/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2017] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to flame retardants has been associated with negative health outcomes including metabolic effects. As polybrominated diphenyl ether flame retardants were pulled from commerce, human exposure to new flame retardants such as Firemaster® 550 (FM550) has increased. Although previous studies in murine systems have shown that FM550 and its main components increase adipogenesis, the effects of FM550 in human models have not been elucidated. OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to determine if FM550 and its components are active in human preadipocytes, and to further investigate their mode of action. METHODS Human primary preadipocytes were differentiated in the presence of FM550 and its components. Differentiation was assessed by lipid accumulation and expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARG), fatty acid binding protein (FABP) 4 and lipoprotein lipase (LPL). mRNA was collected for Poly (A) RNA sequencing and was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Functional analysis of DEGs was undertaken in Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. RESULTS FM550 triphenyl phosphate (TPP) and isopropylated triphenyl phosphates (IPTP), increased adipogenesis in human primary preadipocytes as assessed by lipid accumulation and mRNA expression of regulators of adipogenesis such as PPARγ, CCAAT enhancer binding protein (C/EBP) α and sterol regulatory element binding protein (SREBP) 1 as well as the adipogenic markers FABP4 LPL and perilipin. Poly (A) RNA sequencing analysis revealed potential modes of action including liver X receptor/retinoid X receptor (LXR/RXR) activation, thyroid receptor (TR)/RXR, protein kinase A, and nuclear receptor subfamily 1 group H members activation. CONCLUSIONS We found that FM550, and two of its components, induced adipogenesis in human primary preadipocytes. Further, using global gene expression analysis we showed that both TPP and IPTP likely exert their effects through PPARG to induce adipogenesis. In addition, IPTP perturbed signaling pathways that were not affected by TPP. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP1318.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily W Y Tung
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada , Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vian Peshdary
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada , Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Remi Gagné
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada , Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea Rowan-Carroll
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada , Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carole L Yauk
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada , Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adéle Boudreau
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada , Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ella Atlas
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada , Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Baldwin KR, Phillips AL, Horman B, Arambula SE, Rebuli ME, Stapleton HM, Patisaul HB. Sex Specific Placental Accumulation and Behavioral Effects of Developmental Firemaster 550 Exposure in Wistar Rats. Sci Rep 2017; 7:7118. [PMID: 28769031 PMCID: PMC5540931 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-07216-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Firemaster® 550 (FM 550) is a commercial flame retardant mixture of brominated and organophosphate compounds applied to polyurethane foam used in furniture and baby products. Due to widespread human exposure, and structural similarities with known endocrine disruptors, concerns have been raised regarding possible toxicity. We previously reported evidence of sex specific behavioral effects in rats resulting from developmental exposure. The present study expands upon this prior finding by testing for a greater range of behavioral effects, and measuring the accumulation of FM 550 compounds in placental tissue. Wistar rat dams were orally exposed to FM 550 during gestation (0, 300 or 1000 µg/day; GD 9 – 18) for placental measurements or perinatally (0, 100, 300 or 1000 µg/day; GD 9 – PND 21) to assess activity and anxiety-like behaviors. Placental accumulation was dose dependent, and in some cases sex specific, with the brominated components reaching the highest levels. Behavioral changes were predominantly associated with a loss or reversal of sex differences in activity and anxiety-like behaviors. These findings demonstrate that environmental chemicals may sex-dependently accumulate in the placenta. That sex-biased exposure might translate to sex-specific adverse outcomes such as behavioral deficits is a possibility that merits further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kylie R Baldwin
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Allison L Phillips
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Brian Horman
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Sheryl E Arambula
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Meghan E Rebuli
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | | | - Heather B Patisaul
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA. .,Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA.
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Peng H, Sun J, Saunders DMV, Codling G, Wiseman S, Jones PD, Giesy JP. Hydroxylated 2-Ethylhexyl tetrabromobenzoate isomers in house dust and their agonistic potencies with several nuclear receptors. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2017; 227:578-586. [PMID: 28505588 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.04.094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Revised: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 04/29/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
In the current study, by combining ultra-high resolution (UHR) MS1 spectra, MS2 spectra, and derivatization, three hydroxylated isomers of 2-ethylhexyl tetrabromobenzoate (OH-TBB) were identified in Firemaster® 550 and BZ-54 technical products. Also, a new LC-UHRMS method, using atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI), was developed for simultaneous analysis of OH-TBB, TBB, hydroxylated bis(2-ethylhexyl)-tetrabromophthalate (OH-TBPH) and TBPH in 23 samples of dust collected from houses in Saskatoon, SK, Canada. OH-TBBs were detected in 91% of samples, with a geometric mean concentration of 0.21 ng/g, which was slightly less than those of OH-TBPH (0.35 ng/g). TBB was detected in 100% of samples of dust with a geometric mean concentration of 992 ng/g. Significant (p < 0.001) log-linear relationships between concentrations of OH-TBBs, TBB, or OH-TBPHs and TBPH in dust support the hypothesis of a common source of these compounds. OH-TBBs were found to be strong agonists of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and weaker agonists of the estrogen receptor (ER), but no agonistic potencies was observed with the androgen receptor (AR). Occurrence of OH-TBBs in technical products and house dust, together with their relatively strong PPARγ potencies, indicated their potential risk to health of humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Peng
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B3, Canada
| | - Jianxian Sun
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B3, Canada.
| | - David M V Saunders
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B3, Canada
| | - Garry Codling
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B3, Canada
| | - Steve Wiseman
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B3, Canada
| | - Paul D Jones
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B3, Canada; School of Environment and Sustainability, 117 Science Place, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5C8, Canada
| | - John P Giesy
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B3, Canada; Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B3, Canada; Zoology Department, Center for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA; Department of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, People's Republic of China; School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
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Y Kimura S, Zheng W, N Hipp T, M Allen J, D Richardson S. Total organic halogen (TOX) in human urine: A halogen-specific method for human exposure studies. J Environ Sci (China) 2017; 58:285-295. [PMID: 28774619 DOI: 10.1016/j.jes.2017.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2017] [Revised: 03/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/07/2017] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Disinfection by-products (DBPs) are a complex mixture of compounds unintentionally formed as a result of disinfection processes used to treat drinking water. Effects of long-term exposure to DBPs are mostly unknown and were the subject of recent epidemiological studies. However, most bioanalytical methods focus on a select few DBPs. In this study, a new comprehensive bioanalytical method has been developed that can quantify mixtures of organic halogenated compounds, including DBPs, in human urine as total organic chlorine (TOCl), total organic bromine (TOBr), and total organic iodine (TOI). The optimized method consists of urine dilution, adsorption to activated carbon, pyrolysis of activated carbon, absorption of gases in an aqueous solution, and halide analysis with ion chromatography and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Spike recoveries for TOCl, TOBr, and TOI measurements ranged between 78% and 99%. Average TOCl, TOBr, and TOI concentrations in five urine samples from volunteers who consumed tap water were 1850, 82, and 21.0μg/L as X-, respectively. Volunteers who consumed spring water (control) had TOCl, TOBr, and TOI average concentrations in urine of 1090, 88, and 10.3μg/L as X-, respectively. TOCl and TOI in the urine samples from tap water consumers were higher than the control. However, TOBr was slightly lower in tap water urine samples compared to mineral water urine samples, indicating other sources of environmental exposure other than drinking water. A larger sample population that consumes tap water from different cities and mineral water is needed to determine TOCl, TOBr, and TOI exposure from drinking water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana Y Kimura
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Weiwei Zheng
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA; Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education, Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Taylor N Hipp
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Joshua M Allen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Susan D Richardson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA.
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41
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Dodson RE, Rodgers KM, Carey G, Cedeno Laurent JG, Covaci A, Poma G, Malarvannan G, Spengler JD, Rudel RA, Allen JG. Flame Retardant Chemicals in College Dormitories: Flammability Standards Influence Dust Concentrations. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:4860-4869. [PMID: 28406624 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b00429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Furniture flammability standards are typically met with chemical flame retardants (FRs). FRs can migrate out of products into dust and are linked to cancer, neurological impairment, and endocrine disruption. We collected 95 dust samples from dormitory common areas and student rooms on two U.S. college campuses adhering to two different furniture flammability standards: Technical Bulletin 117 (TB117) and Technical Bulletin 133 (TB133). Because TB133 requires furniture to withstand a much-more-demanding test flame than TB117, we hypothesized that spaces with TB133 furniture would have higher levels of FRs in dust. We found all 47 targeted FRs, including 12 polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) congeners, 19 other brominated FRs, 11 phosphorus FRs (PFRs), 2 Dechlorane-Plus (DP) isomers, and 3 hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD) isomers in the 95 dust samples. We measured the highest reported U.S. concentrations for a number of FRs, including BDE 209 (up to 990 000 ng/g), which may be used to meet the TB133 standard. We prioritized 16 FRs and analyzed levels in relation to flammability standard as well as presence and age of furniture and electronics. Adherence to TB133 was associated with higher concentrations of BDE 209, decabromodiphenylethane (DBDPE), DPs, and HBCDD compared to adherence to TB117 in univariate models (p < 0.05). Student dormitory rooms tended to have higher levels of some FRs compared to common rooms, likely a result of the density of furniture and electronics. As flammability standards are updated, it is critical to understand their impact on exposure and health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin E Dodson
- Silent Spring Institute , 320 Nevada Street, Suite 302, Newton, Massachusetts 02460, United States
| | - Kathryn M Rodgers
- Silent Spring Institute , 320 Nevada Street, Suite 302, Newton, Massachusetts 02460, United States
| | - Gale Carey
- University of New Hampshire , Rudman Hall, 46 College Road, Durham, New Hampshire 03824, United States
| | | | - Adrian Covaci
- Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp , Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk-Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Giulia Poma
- Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp , Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk-Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Govindan Malarvannan
- Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp , Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk-Antwerp, Belgium
| | - John D Spengler
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health , 401 Park Drive, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Ruthann A Rudel
- Silent Spring Institute , 320 Nevada Street, Suite 302, Newton, Massachusetts 02460, United States
| | - Joseph G Allen
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health , 401 Park Drive, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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42
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Tung EWY, Ahmed S, Peshdary V, Atlas E. Firemaster® 550 and its components isopropylated triphenyl phosphate and triphenyl phosphate enhance adipogenesis and transcriptional activity of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (Pparγ) on the adipocyte protein 2 (aP2) promoter. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0175855. [PMID: 28437481 PMCID: PMC5402942 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0175855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Firemaster® 550 (FM550) is a chemical mixture currently used as an additive flame retardant in commercial products, and is comprised of 2-ethylhexyl-2,3,4,5-tertrabromobenzoate (TBB), bis(2-ethylhexyl) tetrabromophthalate (TBPH), triphenyl phosphate (TPP), and isopropylated triphenyl phosphate (IPTP). Animal and in vitro studies suggest that FM550, TPP and IPTP may have adipogenic effects and may exert these effects through PPARγ activation. Using murine 3T3-L1 preadipocytes, we investigated the detailed expression of transcription factors and adipogenic markers in response to FM550 and its components. Further we investigated the mechanism of action of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) on downstream targets of the receptor by focussing on the mature adipocyte marker, adipocyte protein 2 (aP2). In addition, we set to elucidate the components responsible for the adipogenic effects seen in the FM550 mixture. We show that FM550 and its components TPP, IPTP, and TBPH, but not TBB induced lipid accumulation in a dose-dependent manner. Interestingly, despite displaying enhanced lipid accumulation, TBPH did not alter the mRNA or protein expression of terminal differentiation markers. In contrast, FM550, TPP, and IPTP treatment enhanced lipid accumulation, and mRNA and protein expression of terminal differentiation markers. To further delineate the mechanisms of action of FM550 and its components we focussed on aP2 promoter activity. For this purpose we used the enhancer region of the mouse aP2 promoter using a 584-bp reporter construct containing an active PPRE located 5.4 kb away from the transcription start site of aP2. Exposure to FM550, IPTP, and TPP significantly increased PPARγ mediated aP2 enhancer activity. Furthermore, we show that TPP- and IPTP-dependent upregulation of aP2 was significantly inhibited by the selective PPARγ antagonist GW9662. In addition, chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments showed that IPTP and TPP treatment led to the recruitment of PPARγ to the regulatory region of aP2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily W. Y. Tung
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shaimaa Ahmed
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vian Peshdary
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ella Atlas
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail:
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43
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Ferguson PL, Stapleton HM. Comment on "Mutagenic Azo Dyes, Rather Than Flame Retardants, Are the Predominant Brominated Compounds in House Dust". ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:3588-3590. [PMID: 28282131 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b00372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- P Lee Ferguson
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Duke University , Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University , Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Heather M Stapleton
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University , Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
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44
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Cowell WJ, Stapleton HM, Holmes D, Calero L, Tobon C, Perzanowski M, Herbstman JB. Prevalence of historical and replacement brominated flame retardant chemicals in New York City homes. EMERGING CONTAMINANTS 2017; 3:32-39. [PMID: 28989983 PMCID: PMC5630167 DOI: 10.1016/j.emcon.2017.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Until their phase-out between 2005 and 2013, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) were added to household products including furniture, rugs, and electronics to meet flammability standards. Replacement brominated flame retardant (BFR) chemicals, including 2-ethylhexyl-2,3,4,5 tetrabromobenzoate (TBB) and bis(2-ethylhexyl) 2,3,4,5-tetrabromophthalate (TBPH), which are components of the Firemaster 550® commercial mixture, are now being used to meet some flammability standards in furniture. The objective of this analysis was to evaluate the extent to which mothers and their children living in New York City are exposed to PBDEs, TBB, and TBPH. METHODS We measured PBDEs, TBB, and TBPH using gas chromatography mass spectrometry in dust (n = 25) and handwipe (n = 11) samples collected between 2012 and 2013 from mothers and children living in New York City. We defined dust as enriched if the proportional distribution for a given BFR exceeded two-thirds of the total BFR content. RESULTS We detected PBDEs and TBPH in 100% of dust and handwipe samples and TBB in 100% of dust samples and 95% of handwipe samples. Dust from approximately two-thirds of households was enriched for either PBDEs (n = 9) or for TBB + TBPH (n = 8). Overall, the median house dust concentration of TBB + TBPH (1318 ng/g dust) was higher than that of ΣPentaBDE (802 ng/g dust) and BDE-209 (1171 ng/g dust). Children generally had higher BFR handwipe concentrations compared to mothers (ΣPentaBDE: 73%, BDE-209: 64%, TBB + TBPH: 55%) and within households, BFR concentrations from paired maternal-child handwipes were highly correlated. Among mothers, we found a significant positive relation between house dust and handwipe BDE-209 and TBB + TBPH concentrations. CONCLUSION PBDEs, TBB and TBPH are ubiquitous in house dust and handwipes in a sample of mother-child pairs residing in New York City.
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Affiliation(s)
- Whitney J Cowell
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, United States
- Columbia Center for Children's Environmental Health, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, United States
| | - Heather M Stapleton
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States
| | - Darrell Holmes
- Columbia Center for Children's Environmental Health, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, United States
| | - Lehyla Calero
- Columbia Center for Children's Environmental Health, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, United States
| | - Catherine Tobon
- Columbia Center for Children's Environmental Health, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, United States
| | - Matthew Perzanowski
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, United States
| | - Julie B Herbstman
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, United States
- Columbia Center for Children's Environmental Health, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, United States
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45
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Hoffman K, Sosa JA, Stapleton HM. Do flame retardant chemicals increase the risk for thyroid dysregulation and cancer? Curr Opin Oncol 2017; 29:7-13. [PMID: 27755165 PMCID: PMC10037316 DOI: 10.1097/cco.0000000000000335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Flame retardant chemicals are added to consumer products to reduce fire incidence and severity; approximately 1.5 million tons of these chemicals are used annually. However, their widespread use has led to their ubiquitous presence in the environment and chronic accumulation in human tissues. We summarize current trends in human flame retardant chemical exposure, and review recent data highlighting concerns for thyroid dysregulation and cancer risk in human populations. RECENT FINDINGS Polybrominated diphenyl ethers were once commonly used as flame retardant chemicals, but recently were phased out. Exposure is associated with thyroid dysregulation (mainly T4 reductions) in animals, with new work focusing on specific mechanisms of action. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers also impact human thyroid regulation and are related to clinical thyroid disease, but associations appear both dose and life-stage dependent. Emerging data suggest that common alternate flame retardant chemicals may be more potent thyroid disruptors than their predecessors, which is particularly concerning given increasing levels of exposure. SUMMARY Potential health impacts of flame retardant chemicals are only beginning to be understood for 'legacy flame retardant chemicals' (i.e., polybrominated diphenyl ethers), and are largely unevaluated for newer-use chemicals. Cumulatively, current data suggest impact on thyroid regulation is likely, potentially implicating flame retardant chemicals in thyroid disease and cancers for which thyroid dysregulation impacts risk or prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Hoffman
- aNicholas School of the Environment, Duke University bDepartments of Surgery and Medicine cDuke Cancer Institute and Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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46
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Haggard DE, Das SR, Tanguay RL. Comparative Toxicogenomic Responses to the Flame Retardant mITP in Developing Zebrafish. Chem Res Toxicol 2016; 30:508-515. [PMID: 27957850 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.6b00423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Monosubstituted isopropylated triaryl phosphate (mITP) is a major component of Firemaster 550, an additive flame retardant mixture commonly used in polyurethane foams. Developmental toxicity studies in zebrafish established mITP as the most toxic component of FM 550, which causes pericardial edema and heart looping failure. Mechanistic studies showed that mITP is an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) ligand; however, the cardiotoxic effects of mITP were independent of the AhR. We performed comparative whole genome transcriptomics in wild-type and ahr2hu3335 zebrafish, which lack functional ahr2, to identify transcriptional signatures causally involved in the mechanism of mITP-induced cardiotoxicity. Regardless of ahr2 status, mITP exposure resulted in decreased expression of transcripts related to the synthesis of all-trans-retinoic acid and a host of Hox genes. Clustered gene ontology enrichment analysis showed unique enrichment in biological processes related to xenobiotic metabolism and response to external stimuli in wild-type samples. Transcript enrichments overlapping both genotypes involved the retinoid metabolic process and sensory/visual perception biological processes. Examination of the gene-gene interaction network of the differentially expressed transcripts in both genetic backgrounds demonstrated a strong AhR interaction network specific to wild-type samples, with overlapping genes regulated by retinoic acid receptors (RARs). A transcriptome analysis of control ahr2-null zebrafish identified potential cross-talk among AhR, Nrf2, and Hif1α. Collectively, we confirmed that mITP is an AhR ligand and present evidence in support of our hypothesis that mITP's developmental cardiotoxic effects are mediated by inhibition at the RAR level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derik E Haggard
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University , Corvallis, Oregon 97333, United States
| | - Siba R Das
- Pacific Northwest Diabetes Research Institute , Seattle, Washington 98122, United States
| | - Robert L Tanguay
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University , Corvallis, Oregon 97333, United States
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47
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Ali N, Eqani SAMAS, Ismail IMI, Malarvannan G, Kadi MW, Albar HMS, Rehan M, Covaci A. Brominated and organophosphate flame retardants in indoor dust of Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: Implications for human exposure. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2016; 569-570:269-277. [PMID: 27343946 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.06.093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Revised: 06/12/2016] [Accepted: 06/13/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Different flame retardants (FRs) namely polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), emerging brominated/chlorinated flame retardants (Br/Cl FRs), and organophosphate FRs (OPFRs) were analyzed in cars, air conditioner (AC) filters and floor dust of different households from Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). To the best of our knowledge, this is first study in literature reporting emerging Br/Cl FRs and OPFRs in AC filter dust and also first to report on their occurrence in dust from KSA. Chlorinated alkyl phosphate, penta-BDEs, BDE-209, and decabromodiphenylethane (DBDPE) were the major chemicals in dust samples from all microenvironments. ΣOPFRs occurred at median concentrations (ng/g dust) of 15,400, 10,500, and 3750 in AC filter, car and house floor dust, respectively. For all analyzed chemicals, relatively lower levels were observed in floor dust than car and AC filter dust. The profiles of FRs in car dust were different from AC filter and floor dust, which reflected their wider application as FR and plasticizer in variety of household and commercial products. For toddlers, assuming high dust intake and 95th percentile concentrations, the computed exposure estimation for BDE-99 was higher than RfD values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadeem Ali
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Studies, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Syed Ali Musstjab Akber Shah Eqani
- Public Health and Environment Division, Department of Biosciences, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Park Road, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Iqbal Mohammad Ibrahim Ismail
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Studies, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdul Aziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Govindan Malarvannan
- Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Mohammad W Kadi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdul Aziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Mohammad Rehan
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Studies, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adrian Covaci
- Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
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48
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Knudsen GA, Hughes MF, Sanders JM, Hall SM, Birnbaum LS. Estimation of human percutaneous bioavailability for two novel brominated flame retardants, 2-ethylhexyl 2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate (EH-TBB) and bis(2-ethylhexyl) tetrabromophthalate (BEH-TEBP). Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2016; 311:117-127. [PMID: 27732871 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2016.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Revised: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 10/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
2-Ethylhexyl-2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate (EH-TBB) and bis(2-ethylhexyl)tetrabromophthalate (BEH-TEBP) are novel brominated flame retardants used in consumer products. A parallelogram approach was used to predict human dermal absorption and flux for EH-TBB and BEH-TEBP. [14C]-EH-TBB or [14C]-BEH-TEBP was applied to human or rat skin at 100nmol/cm2 using a flow-through system. Intact rats received analogous dermal doses. Treated skin was washed and tape-stripped to remove "unabsorbed" [14C]-radioactivity after continuous exposure (24h). "Absorbed" was quantified using dermally retained [14C]-radioactivity; "penetrated" was calculated based on [14C]-radioactivity in media (in vitro) or excreta+tissues (in vivo). Human skin absorbed EH-TBB (24±1%) while 0.2±0.1% penetrated skin. Rat skin absorbed more (51±10%) and was more permeable (2±0.5%) to EH-TBB in vitro; maximal EH-TBB flux was 11±7 and 102±24pmol-eq/cm2/h for human and rat skin, respectively. In vivo, 27±5% was absorbed and 13% reached systemic circulation after 24h (maximum flux was 464±65pmol-eq/cm2/h). BEH-TEBP in vitro penetrance was minimal (<0.01%) for rat or human skin. BEH-TEBP absorption was 12±11% for human skin and 41±3% for rat skin. In vivo, total absorption was 27±9%; 1.2% reached systemic circulation. In vitro maximal BEH-TEBP flux was 0.3±0.2 and 1±0.3pmol-eq/cm2/h for human and rat skin; in vivo maximum flux for rat skin was 16±7pmol-eq/cm2/h. EH-TBB was metabolized in rat and human skin to tetrabromobenzoic acid. BEH-TEBP-derived [14C]-radioactivity in the perfusion media could not be characterized. <1% of the dose of EH-TBB and BEH-TEHP is estimated to reach the systemic circulation following human dermal exposure under the conditions tested. CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS STUDIED IN THIS ARTICLE 2-Ethylhexyl 2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate (PubChem CID: 71316600; CAS No. 183658-27-7 FW: 549.92g/mol logPest: 7.73-8.75 (12)) Abdallah et al., 2015a. Other published abbreviations for 2-ethylhexyl-2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate are TBB EHTeBB or EHTBB Abdallah and Harrad, 2011. bis(2-ethylhexyl) tetrabromophthalate (PubChem CID: 117291; CAS No. 26040-51-7 FW: 706.14g/mol logPest: 9.48-11.95 (12)). Other published abbreviations for bis(2-ethylhexyl)tetrabromophthalate are TeBrDEPH TBPH or BEHTBP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel A Knudsen
- NCI Laboratory of Toxicology and Toxicokinetics, 111 T W Alexander Dr., Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
| | - Michael F Hughes
- Integrated Systems Toxicology Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA
| | - J Michael Sanders
- NCI Laboratory of Toxicology and Toxicokinetics, 111 T W Alexander Dr., Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Samantha M Hall
- NCI Laboratory of Toxicology and Toxicokinetics, 111 T W Alexander Dr., Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Linda S Birnbaum
- NCI Laboratory of Toxicology and Toxicokinetics, 111 T W Alexander Dr., Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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49
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Cooper E, Kroeger G, Davis K, Clark CR, Ferguson PL, Stapleton HM. Results from Screening Polyurethane Foam Based Consumer Products for Flame Retardant Chemicals: Assessing Impacts on the Change in the Furniture Flammability Standards. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2016; 50:10653-10660. [PMID: 27552529 PMCID: PMC5052662 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.6b01602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Revised: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Flame retardant (FR) chemicals have often been added to polyurethane foam to meet required state and federal flammability standards. However, some FRs (e.g., PBDEs and TDCIPP) are associated with health hazards and are now restricted from use in some regions. In addition, California's residential furniture flammability standard (TB-117) has undergone significant amendments over the past few years, and TDCIPP has been added to California's Proposition 65 list. These events have likely led to shifts in the types of FRs used, and the products to which they are applied. To provide more information on the use of FRs in products containing polyurethane foam (PUF), we established a screening service for the general public. Participants residing in the US were allowed to submit up to 5 samples from their household for analysis, free of charge, and supplied information on the product category, labeling, and year and state of purchase. Between February 2014 and June 2016, we received 1141 PUF samples for analysis from various products including sofas, chairs, mattresses, car seats and pillows. Of these samples tested, 52% contained a FR at levels greater than 1% by weight. Tris(1,3-dichloroisopropyl)phosphate (TDCIPP) was the most common FR detected in PUF samples, and was the most common FR detected in all product categories. Analysis of the data by purchasing date suggests that the use of TDCIPP decreased in recent years, paralleled with an increase in the use of TCIPP and a nonhalogenated aryl phosphate mixture we call "TBPP." In addition, we observed significant decreases in FR applications in furniture products and child car seats, suggesting the use of additive FRs in PUF may be declining, perhaps as a reflection of recent changes to TB-117 and Proposition 65. More studies are needed to determine how these changes in FR use relate to changes in exposure among the general population.
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50
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Knudsen GA, Sanders JM, Birnbaum LS. Disposition of the Emerging Brominated Flame Retardant, 2-Ethylhexyl 2,3,4,5-Tetrabromobenzoate, in Female SD Rats and Male B6C3F1 Mice: Effects of Dose, Route, and Repeated Administration. Toxicol Sci 2016; 154:392-402. [PMID: 27613714 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfw176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
2-Ethylhexyl-2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate (EH-TBB; MW 549.92 g/mol; CAS 183658-27-7) is a brominated component of flame retardant mixtures used as substitutes for some PBDEs. EH-TBB is added to various consumer products, including polyurethane foams, and has been detected in humans. The present study characterized the fate of EH-TBB in rodents. [14C]-labeled EH-TBB was absorbed, metabolized, and eliminated via the urine and feces following single administrations of 0.1-100 µmol/kg (∼0.05-55 mg/kg) or repeated administration (0.1 µmol/kg/day × 5-10 days) by gavage to female Hsd:Sprague DawleySD (SD) rats. Cumulative excretion via feces increased (39-60%) with dose (0.1-10 µmol/kg) with corresponding decreases in urinary excretion (54 to 37%) after 72 h. Delayed excretion of [14C]-radioactivity in urine and feces of a 100 µmol/kg oral dose was noted. Recovery was complete for all doses by 72 h. IV-injected rats excreted more of the 0.1 µmol/kg dose in urine and less in feces than did gavaged rats, indicating partial biliary elimination of systemically available compound. No tissue bioaccumulation was found for rats given 5 oral daily doses of EH-TBB. Parent molecule was not detected in urine whereas 2 metabolites, tetrabromobenzoic acid (TBBA), a TBBA-sulfate conjugate, and a TBBA-glycine conjugate were identified. EH-TBB and TBBA were identified in extracts from feces. Data from gavaged male B6C3F1/Tac mice indicated minimal sex- or species differences are likely for the disposition of EH-TBB. Approximately 85% of a 0.1 µmol/kg dose was absorbed from the gut. Overall absorption of EH-TBB is expected to be even greater at lower levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel A Knudsen
- NCI Laboratory of Toxicology and Toxicokinetics, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - J Michael Sanders
- NCI Laboratory of Toxicology and Toxicokinetics, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Linda S Birnbaum
- NCI Laboratory of Toxicology and Toxicokinetics, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
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