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Ding YC, Hurley S, Park JS, Steele L, Rakoff M, Zhu Y, Zhao J, LaBarge M, Bernstein L, Chen S, Reynolds P, Neuhausen SL. Methylation biomarkers of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and association with breast cancer risk at the time of menopause. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 156:106772. [PMID: 34425644 PMCID: PMC8385228 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) may influence risk of developing post-menopausal breast cancer. Although mechanisms are poorly understood, epigenetic regulation of gene expression may play a role. OBJECTIVES To identify DNA methylation (DNAm) changes associated with PBDE serum levels and test the association of these biomarkers with breast cancer risk. METHODS We studied 397 healthy women (controls) and 133 women diagnosed with breast cancer (cases) between ages 40 and 58 years who participated in the California Teachers Study. PBDE levels were measured in blood. Infinium Human Methylation EPIC Bead Chips were used to measure DNAm. Using multivariable linear regression models, differentially methylated CpG sites (DMSs) and regions (DMRs) associated with serum PBDE levels were identified using controls. For top-ranked DMSs and DMRs, targeted next-generation bisulfite sequencing was used to measure DNAm for 133 invasive breast cancer cases and 301 age-matched controls. Conditional logistic regression was used to evaluate associations between DMSs and DMRs and breast cancer risk. RESULTS We identified 15 DMSs and 10 DMRs statistically significantly associated with PBDE levels (FDR < 0.05). Methylation changes in a DMS at BMP8B and DMRs at TP53 and A2M-AS1 were statistically significantly (FDR < 0.05) associated with breast cancer risk. CONCLUSION We show for the first time that serum PBDE levels are associated with differential methylation and that PBDE-associated DNAm changes in blood are associated with breast cancer risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Chun Ding
- Department of Population Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Susan Hurley
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, California Environmental Protection Agency, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - June-Soo Park
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Toxic Substances Control, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Linda Steele
- Department of Population Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Michele Rakoff
- Breast Cancer Care and Research Fund, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Yun Zhu
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health and Health Professions and College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jinying Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health and Health Professions and College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Mark LaBarge
- Department of Population Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Leslie Bernstein
- Department of Population Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Shiuan Chen
- Department of Cancer Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Peggy Reynolds
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Susan L Neuhausen
- Department of Population Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA.
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D’ Souza ES, Manjunatha JG, Raril C. Electrochemical Determination of Dopamine and Uric Acid Using Poly(proline) Modified Carbon Paste Electrode: A Cyclic Voltammetric Study. CHEMISTRY & CHEMICAL TECHNOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.23939/chcht15.02.153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
A cyclic voltammetric technique was used for electropolymerisation of proline on the surface of carbon paste electrode and for individual and concurrent determination of dopamine (DA) and uric acid (UA). The surface morphology of the developed electrode was studied by using field emission scanning electron microscopy. The modified electrode showed a high current response towards DA as compared to the bare electrode. The developed modified electrode shows good catalytic activity with a different oxidation potential of DA and UA. The electrode process was found to be adsorption controlled. The developed method shows very good stability and reproducibility. Under the optimized conditions, the concentration range is (1‒2)∙10-4 M and the observed detection limit was 4.7∙10-6 M. The developed sensor was applied for the determination of DA in the real sample with a good recovery.
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Ismail NAH, Wee SY, Aris AZ. Multi-class of endocrine disrupting compounds in aquaculture ecosystems and health impacts in exposed biota. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 188:375-388. [PMID: 28892772 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.08.150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Revised: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Fishes are a major protein food source for humans, with a high economic value in the aquaculture industry. Because endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) have been introduced into aquatic ecosystems, the exposure of humans and animals that depend on aquatic foods, especially fishes, should be seriously considered. EDCs are emerging pollutants causing global concern because they can disrupt the endocrine system in aquatic organisms, mammals, and humans. These pollutants have been released into the environment through many sources, e.g., wastewater treatment plants, terrestrial run-off (industrial activities, pharmaceuticals, and household waste), and precipitation. The use of pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and fertilizers for maintaining and increasing fish health and growth also contributes to EDC pollution in the water body. Human and animal exposure to EDCs occurs via ingestion of contaminated matrices, especially aquatic foodstuffs. This paper aims to review human EDC exposure via fish consumption. In respect to the trace concentration of EDCs in fish, types of instrument and clean-up method are of great concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Afifah Hanun Ismail
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Environmental Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Sze Yee Wee
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Environmental Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Zaharin Aris
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Environmental Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
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Ronchetti SA, Novack GV, Bianchi MS, Crocco MC, Duvilanski BH, Cabilla JP. In vivo xenoestrogenic actions of cadmium and arsenic in anterior pituitary and uterus. Reproduction 2017; 152:1-10. [PMID: 27256631 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) and arsenic (iAs) are toxic metals ubiquitously present in the environment. Both pollutants exert nonmonotonic dose responses, being mostly cytotoxic at high concentrations but mimicking estrogen (E2) effects at low doses. Xenoestrogenic activity of Cd and iAs has been demonstrated in different hormone-dependent tumor cell lines; however, their actions in vivo remain largely unknown. Here, we investigated whether in vivo administration of low doses of Cd and iAs through drinking water would display xenoestrogenic effects in the anterior pituitary gland and uterus of ovariectomized rats. Cd (1ppm) and iAs (0.1ppm) exposure increased the wet weight of anterior pituitary gland and uterus and induced proestrus- and estrus-like vaginal smears. Both metals stimulate cell proliferation of these tissues as they increased the expression of proliferation markers. More importantly, they augmented soluble guanylyl cyclase α1 subunit expression, which has been linked to hormone-dependent tumor progression. Also, Cd and iAs modified protein levels of full-length estrogen receptor α and its truncated variants in an E2-like manner. Anterior pituitary hormone secretion was differentially affected by both metals. Luteinizing hormone synthesis and release were strongly diminished after Cd exposure and only mildly reduced by iAs. Both metals were able to increase prolactin synthesis, although only iAs augmented serum prolactin levels. This study shows for the first time that Cd and iAs exert strong xenoestrogenic effects on anterior pituitary gland at low doses. The differences between Cd and iAs E2-like behavior indicate that other Cd- and iAs-specific mechanisms could be involved. Altogether, these results contribute to the knowledge of reproductive disorders associated with Cd and iAs environmental contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia A Ronchetti
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (UBA-CONICET)Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gisela V Novack
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (UBA-CONICET)Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María S Bianchi
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IByME-CONICET)Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Melisa C Crocco
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (UBA-CONICET)Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Jimena P Cabilla
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (UBA-CONICET)Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Catanese MC, Suvorov A, Vandenberg LN. Beyond a means of exposure: a new view of the mother in toxicology research. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2015. [DOI: 10.1039/c4tx00119b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxicological studies generally view pregnant animals as a conduit through which gestational exposure of offspring to chemicals can be achieved, allowing for the study of developmental toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary C. Catanese
- Program in Neuroscience & Behaviour
- University of Massachusetts – Amherst
- Amherst
- USA
| | - Alexander Suvorov
- Program in Neuroscience & Behaviour
- University of Massachusetts – Amherst
- Amherst
- USA
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences
| | - Laura N. Vandenberg
- Program in Neuroscience & Behaviour
- University of Massachusetts – Amherst
- Amherst
- USA
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences
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Abstract
Numerous occupational and environmental exposures have been shown to disrupt thyroid hormones, but much less is known about their relationships with thyroid cancer. Here we review the epidemiology studies of occupations and occupational exposures and thyroid cancer incidence to provide insight into preventable risk factors for thyroid cancer. The published literature was searched using the Web of Knowledge database for all articles through August 2013 that had in their text 'occupation' 'job' 'employment' or 'work' and 'thyroid cancer'. After excluding 10 mortality studies and 4 studies with less than 5 exposed incident cases, we summarised the findings of 30 articles that examined thyroid cancer incidence in relation to occupations or occupational exposure. The studies were grouped by exposure/occupation category, study design and exposure assessment approach. Where available, gender-stratified results are reported. The most studied (19 of 30 studies) and the most consistent associations were observed for radiation-exposed workers and healthcare occupations. Suggestive, but inconsistent, associations were observed in studies of pesticide-exposed workers and agricultural occupations. Findings for other exposures and occupation groups were largely null. The majority of studies had few exposed cases and assessed exposure based on occupation or industry category, self-report, or generic (population-based) job exposure matrices. The suggestive, but inconsistent findings for many of the occupational exposures reviewed here indicate that more studies with larger numbers of cases and better exposure assessment are necessary, particularly for exposures known to disrupt thyroid homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mary H. Ward
- Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Curt T. Della Valle
- Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Melissa C. Friesen
- Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Rockville, MD, USA
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Martínez-Gómez C, Lamoree M, Hamers T, van Velzen M, Kamstra JH, Fernández B, Benedicto J, León VM, Vethaak AD. Integrated chemical and biological analysis to explain estrogenic potency in bile extracts of red mullet (Mullus barbatus). AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2013; 134-135:1-10. [PMID: 23537582 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2013.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2012] [Revised: 02/22/2013] [Accepted: 02/27/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
A biological screening was performed to establish the total exposure to estrogenic compounds of red mullet (Mullus barbatus) collected at several sites along the Spanish Mediterranean coast by testing male fish bile extracts using the in vitro ER-LUC reporter gene assay. In addition, major metabolites were identified and measurements of OH-PAHs (1-naphthol, 9-phenantrol, 9-fluorenol, 1-pyrenol, 1OH-BaP and 3OH-BaP) and alkylphenols (4-n-nonylphenol (4-n-NP) and 4-tertoctylphenol (4-tert-OP)) in the same fish bile extracts were taken by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in electron ionization mode (GC-EI-MS). Relative in vitro estrogenic potencies of the chemically quantified compounds were also tested. The highest biliary concentrations of 1-pyrenol, 9-fluorenol and 4-n-NP were found in fish from Barcelona and from the Mar Menor coastal lagoon. However, these concentrations can be considered relatively low compared to values reported in red mullet from other polluted waters in the Mediterranean Sea. The contribution of 1-pyrenol, 4-n-NP and 4-tert-OP to the total estrogenic potency measured in male fish bile was found to be negligible, indicating the presence of other estrogenic compounds in red mullet bile. Estrogenic potency in bile from male fish was markedly elevated in Mar Menor lagoon (234.8±5.7 pg E2EQ/μl), and further research will be necessary to explain whether the presence of natural and synthetic-hormones in the lagoon contributed to this finding. Values of approximately 15-16E2EQ pg/mg bile can be regarded as preliminary baseline levels of bile estrogenicity in male red mullet from the western Mediterranean Sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Concepción Martínez-Gómez
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía, Oceanografic Centre of Murcia, Varadero 1, San Pedro del Pinatar, 30740 Murcia, Spain.
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Nassouri AS, Archambeaud F, Desailloud R. [Endocrine disruptors: echoes of congress of Endocrinology in 2012]. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2013; 73 Suppl 1:S36-44. [PMID: 23089380 DOI: 10.1016/s0003-4266(12)70013-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The increased prevalence of certain diseases, along with the development of new technologies and industrialization raised the possibility of the involvement of environmental factors, industrial products, nutritional factors, infections, drugs... and endocrine disruptors. These factors may interfere via signaling pathways specific to the organism. Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) have been redefined by the Endocrine Society in 2012 as "exogenous chemical, or mixture of chemicals, that can interfere with any aspect of hormone action". They have therefore potentially deleterious effects on development, growth, metabolism, reproduction, the nervous, immune and cardiovascular systems. Therefore, they constitute a real public health issue. Their long half-life may explain delayed effects and their often lipophilic character may promote maternofetal transmission. Except diethylstilbestrol (DES), few formal proofs have been made on the direct role of EDCs ; arguments are based on cross-sectional studies, in vitro models and animal models. Basic research puts insight into mechanisms of action of EDCs but many questions remain unanswered. Epidemiological data are difficult to interpret because of interindividual differences in susceptibility to EDCs and of nonlinear/nonmonotonique action (as opposed to toxic dose effect), multiple interactions between environmental agents (additive effects and/or synergistic and/or antagonists), the role of the window of exposure, latency, and the possibility of transgenerational effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- A S Nassouri
- Service de Médecine Interne B, Hôpital Cluzeau, 23 avenue Dominique Larrey, 87042 Limoges, France.
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Romani F, Tropea A, Scarinci E, Dello Russo C, Lisi L, Catino S, Lanzone A, Apa R. Endocrine disruptors and human corpus luteum: in vitro effects of phenols on luteal cells function. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH. PART C, ENVIRONMENTAL CARCINOGENESIS & ECOTOXICOLOGY REVIEWS 2013; 31:170-180. [PMID: 23672405 DOI: 10.1080/10590501.2013.782180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine disruptors are well known to impair fertility. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of bisphenol A (BPA) and nonylphenol (p-NP) on human luteal function in vitro. In particular, in luteal cells isolated from 21 human corpora lutea progesterone, prostaglandin (PG) F2α, PGE2 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) release, as well as VEGF expression were evaluated. BPA and p-NP negatively affected both luteal steroidogenesis and luteotrophic/ luteolytic factors balance, without influencing VEGF mRNA expression. Actually, BPA and p-NP impaired human luteal cells function in vitro, underlining the already suggested correlation between phenols and reproductive failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Romani
- Istituto di Ginecologia ed Ostetricia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy.
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English RG, Perry M, Lee MM, Hoffman E, Delport S, Dalvie MA. Farm residence and reproductive health among boys in rural South Africa. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2012; 47:73-79. [PMID: 22771522 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2012.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2012] [Revised: 05/24/2012] [Accepted: 06/14/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies have investigated reproductive health effects of contemporary agricultural pesticides in boys. OBJECTIVES To determine the association between pesticide exposure and reproductive health of boys. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study in rural South Africa of boys living on and off farms. The study included a questionnaire (demographics, general and reproductive health, phyto-estrogen intake, residential history, pesticide exposures, exposures during pregnancy); and a physical examination that included sexual maturity development ratings; testicular volume; height, weight, body mass index; and sex hormone concentrations. RESULTS Among the 269 boys recruited into the study, 177 (65.8%) were categorized as farm (high pesticide exposures) and 98 (34.2%) as non-farm residents (lower pesticide exposures). Median ages of the two groups were 11.3 vs 12.0 years, respectively (p<0.05). After controlling for confounders that included socioeconomic status, farm boys were shorter (regression coefficient (RC)=-3.42 cm; 95% confidence interval (CI): -6.38 to -0.45 cm) and weighed less (RC=-2.26 kg; CI: -4.44 to -0.75 kg). The farm boys also had lower serum lutenizing hormone (RC=-0.28 IU/L; CI: -0.48 to -0.08 IU/L), but higher serum oestradiol (RC=8.07 pmol/L; CI: 2.34-13.81 pmol/L) and follicle stimulating hormone (RC=0.63 IU/L; CI: 0.19-1.08 U/L). CONCLUSIONS Our study provides evidence that farm residence is associated with adverse growth and reproductive health of pubertal boys which may be due to environmental exposures to hormonally active contemporary agricultural pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- René Glynnis English
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Health Sciences Faculty, University of Cape, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town 7729, South Africa
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Vandenberg LN, Colborn T, Hayes TB, Heindel JJ, Jacobs DR, Lee DH, Shioda T, Soto AM, vom Saal FS, Welshons WV, Zoeller RT, Myers JP. Hormones and endocrine-disrupting chemicals: low-dose effects and nonmonotonic dose responses. Endocr Rev 2012; 33:378-455. [PMID: 22419778 PMCID: PMC3365860 DOI: 10.1210/er.2011-1050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1986] [Impact Index Per Article: 165.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2011] [Accepted: 02/07/2012] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
For decades, studies of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) have challenged traditional concepts in toxicology, in particular the dogma of "the dose makes the poison," because EDCs can have effects at low doses that are not predicted by effects at higher doses. Here, we review two major concepts in EDC studies: low dose and nonmonotonicity. Low-dose effects were defined by the National Toxicology Program as those that occur in the range of human exposures or effects observed at doses below those used for traditional toxicological studies. We review the mechanistic data for low-dose effects and use a weight-of-evidence approach to analyze five examples from the EDC literature. Additionally, we explore nonmonotonic dose-response curves, defined as a nonlinear relationship between dose and effect where the slope of the curve changes sign somewhere within the range of doses examined. We provide a detailed discussion of the mechanisms responsible for generating these phenomena, plus hundreds of examples from the cell culture, animal, and epidemiology literature. We illustrate that nonmonotonic responses and low-dose effects are remarkably common in studies of natural hormones and EDCs. Whether low doses of EDCs influence certain human disorders is no longer conjecture, because epidemiological studies show that environmental exposures to EDCs are associated with human diseases and disabilities. We conclude that when nonmonotonic dose-response curves occur, the effects of low doses cannot be predicted by the effects observed at high doses. Thus, fundamental changes in chemical testing and safety determination are needed to protect human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura N Vandenberg
- Tufts University, Center for Regenerative and Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, 200 Boston Avenue, Suite 4600, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, USA.
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Scammell MK. Qualitative environmental health research: an analysis of the literature, 1991-2008. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2012; 16:4239-55. [PMID: 22031153 DOI: 10.1590/s1413-81232011001100030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Qualitative research uses nonnumeric data to understand people's opinions, motives, understanding, and beliefs about events or phenomena. In this analysis, I report the use of qualitative methods and data in the study of the relationship between environmental exposures and human health. A primary search for peer-reviewed journal articles dated from 1991 through 2008 included the following three terms: qualitative, environ*, and health. Searches resulted in 3,155 records. Data were extracted and findings of articles analyzed to determine where and by whom qualitative environmental health research is conducted and published, the types of methods and analyses used in qualitative studies of environmental health, and the types of information qualitative data contribute to environmental health. The results highlight a diversity of disciplines and techniques among researchers who used qualitative methods to study environmental health. Nearly all of the studies identified increased scientific understanding of lay perceptions of environmental health exposures. This analysis demonstrates the potential of qualitative data to improve understanding of complex exposure pathways, including the influence of social factors on environmental health, and health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine Kangsen Scammell
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, Boston, MA, USA.
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Fenton SE, Reed C, Newbold RR. Perinatal environmental exposures affect mammary development, function, and cancer risk in adulthood. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2011; 52:455-79. [PMID: 22017681 PMCID: PMC3477544 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-010611-134659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Puberty is an important transition that enables reproduction of mammalian species. Precocious puberty, specifically early thelarche (the appearance of breast "buds"), in girls of multiple ethnic backgrounds is a major health problem in the United States and other countries. The cause for a continued decrease in the age of breast development in girls is unknown, but environmental factors likely play a major role. Laboratory and epidemiological studies have identified several individual environmental factors that affect breast development, but further progress is needed. Current research needs include increased attention to and recording of prenatal and neonatal environmental exposures, testing of marketed chemicals for effects on the mammary gland, and understanding of the mammary gland-specific mechanisms that are altered by chemicals. Such research is required to halt the increasing trend toward puberty at earlier ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne E. Fenton
- Division of the National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709
| | - Casey Reed
- Division of the National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709
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Mastromonaco GF, Houck ML, Bergfelt DR. Disorders of sexual development in wild and captive exotic animals. Sex Dev 2011; 6:84-95. [PMID: 22004948 DOI: 10.1159/000332203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Disorders of sexual development (DSDs) are an increasing concern in both captive and free-ranging wildlife species. Partial or complete reduction in fertility that results from intersex conditions or gonadal dysgenesis is detrimental to the reproductive potential of wildlife populations, and consequently, to their long-term survival. Compared to the wealth of information available on humans and domestic species, a better understanding of the factors influencing sexual development in wildlife is essential for developing and improving population management or conservation plans. This review attempts to bring together the different facets of DSDs as studied in the fields of reproductive physiology, endocrinology, ecotoxicology, wildlife biology, and environmental health.
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Scammell MK. Qualitative environmental health research: an analysis of the literature, 1991-2008. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2010; 118:1146-54. [PMID: 20421191 PMCID: PMC2920087 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.0901762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2009] [Accepted: 04/26/2010] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent articles have advocated for the use of qualitative methods in environmental health research. Qualitative research uses nonnumeric data to understand people's opinions, motives, understanding, and beliefs about events or phenomena. OBJECTIVE In this analysis of the literature, I report the use of qualitative methods and data in the study of the relationship between environmental exposures and human health. DATA SOURCES A primary search on ISI Web of Knowledge/Web of Science for peer-reviewed journal articles dated from 1991 through 2008 included the following three terms: qualitative, environ*, and health. Inclusion and exclusion criteria are described. DATA EXTRACTION Searches resulted in 3,155 records. Data were extracted and findings of articles analyzed to determine where and by whom qualitative environmental health research is conducted and published, the types of methods and analyses used in qualitative studies of environmental health, and the types of information qualitative data contribute to environmental health. DATA SYNTHESIS Ninety-one articles met inclusion criteria. These articles were published in 58 different journals, with a maximum of eight for a single journal. The results highlight a diversity of disciplines and techniques among researchers who used qualitative methods to study environmental health, with most studies relying on one-on-one interviews. Details of the analyses were absent from a large number of studies. Nearly all of the studies identified increased scientific understanding of lay perceptions of environmental health exposures. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Qualitative data are published in traditionally quantitative environmental health studies to a limited extent. However, this analysis demonstrates the potential of qualitative data to improve understanding of complex exposure pathways, including the influence of social factors on environmental health, and health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine Kangsen Scammell
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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Suzuki M, Sugiyama T, Musashi E, Kobiyama Y, Kashiwada A, Matsuda K, Yamada K. Use of chitosan for removal of bisphenol A and bisphenol derivatives through tyrosinase-catalyzed quinone oxidation. J Appl Polym Sci 2010. [DOI: 10.1002/app.31334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Corrieri L, Della Seta D, Canoine V, Fusani L. Developmental exposure to xenoestrogen enhances spatial learning in male rats. Horm Behav 2007; 51:620-5. [PMID: 17428485 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2007.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2006] [Revised: 02/28/2007] [Accepted: 03/01/2007] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Steroid hormones have profound effects on the development and function of the nervous system. Environmental estrogens or xenoestrogens are manmade or are natural compounds, which mimics the action of estrogen hormones. The experimental evidence for impairment of cognitive functions in humans and mammals following exposure to xenoestrogens has been fiercely debated. The strongest arguments against such studies have been that the route, time course, and intensity of exposure did not simulate environmental exposure, and that the chemicals tested have additional, non-estrogenic toxic effects, hindering a generalization of actual "xenoestrogenic" effects. Here we show that an environmental-like exposure to the pure estrogen, 17alpha-ethynylestradiol (EE2) during development enhances spatial learning abilities in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. To simulate an environmental exposure, we used a very low dose (4 ng/kg/day) of EE2 equivalent to concentrations measured in European and US streams which was given orally with a non-invasive method, and we extended the treatment for the entire course of development, from conception to puberty. The animals were tested in a Morris water maze protocol at 6 months of age. Male rats treated with EE2 during development showed a faster learning during the training phase, and remembered better the position of the hidden platform in the short term. Our study demonstrates that actual levels of exposure to xenoestrogens can permanently alter cognitive abilities of a mammalian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Corrieri
- Dipartimento di Fisiologia, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 53100 Siena, Italy
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Rey F, Ramos JG, Stoker C, Bussmann LE, Luque EH, Muñoz-de-Toro M. Vitellogenin detection in Caiman latirostris (Crocodylia: Alligatoridae): a tool to assess environmental estrogen exposure in wildlife. J Comp Physiol B 2005; 176:243-51. [PMID: 16292562 DOI: 10.1007/s00360-005-0045-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2005] [Revised: 08/30/2005] [Accepted: 09/20/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Environmental pollution with endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) has adverse effects on the ecosystem's health. Caiman latirostris are widely distributed in South American aquatic ecosystems. Caimans have physiological and ecological characteristics that make them particularly vulnerable to EDCs exposure and suitable candidate as a sentinel species. Vitellogenin (Vtg) is a yolk pre-cursor protein synthesized by the liver of non-mammalian vertebrates and induced in response to estrogen. Purified plasma Vtg from caimans injected with estradiol-17beta (E2) was used to generate a polyclonal anti-body. Anti-body specificity was assessed using Western blot. The antiserum was also effective in detecting turtle Vtg, exhibiting high cross-reactivity with Vtg from Phrynops hilarii and Trachemys scripta dorbigni. We developed a specific and highly sensitive ELISA for caiman Vtg. This method has a detection limit of 0.1 ng/ml of plasma. The ELISA did not detect Vtg in plasma of non-induced male caimans. Induction of Vtg in male caimans was evaluated in response to one or two (7 days apart) doses of E2. Due to its high sensitivity, ELISA allows to measure the small increases in plasma Vtg after exposure to exogenous estrogen. A priming effect was observed following the second E2 dose, with a tenfold increase in circulating Vtg. Hepatic synthesis was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. The results presented herein suggest that detection of plasma Vtg in male caimans might become a valuable tool in biomonitoring xenoestrogen exposure in a polluted environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florencia Rey
- Laboratorio de Endocrinología y Tumores Hormonodependientes, School of Biochemistry and Biological Sciences, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, C. C. 242, (3000) Santa Fe, Argentina
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Bloom MS, Vena JE, Swanson MK, Moysich KB, Olson JR. Profiles of ortho-polychlorinated biphenyl congeners, dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene, hexachlorobenzene, and Mirex among male Lake Ontario sportfish consumers: the New York State Angler cohort study. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2005; 97:178-194. [PMID: 15533334 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2004.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2004] [Accepted: 06/07/2004] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Great Lakes sportfish consumption is a recognized human exposure source to environmental organochlorine compounds. Using data collected as part of the New York State Angler Cohort Study, 203 males were considered with regard to history of Lake Ontario sportfish consumption and sera levels of 57 ortho-substituted polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners, dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene, hexachlorobenzene, and Mirex. Consumption of six species of highly contaminated Lake Ontario sportfish during the years 1980 to 1990 was considered. Exposure was weighted by average annual frequency of consumption, whole-fish PCB estimates, and meal size to determine a continuous index of exposure. This index was dichotomized to compare "consumers" to "nonconsumers" in several procedures. Recovery and lipid-adjusted serum values for PCB congener IUPAC Nos. 138+163 (rsp=0.3), 183 (rsp=0.3), 187 (rsp=0.4), and 188 (rsp=0.3) and Mirex (rsp=0.4) were significantly correlated with the index of fish consumption (P<0.001). A logistic regression model, using forward stepwise selection procedures (alpha in/out=0.002/0.004), was employed to account for high intercorrelations among organochlorine predictor variables. Mirex was the sole statistically significant predictor variable of "consumer/nonconsumer." A one-unit increase in log Mirex was associated with a 92.0% increase in the odds of having reported sportfish consumption (OR=1.92, 95%CI=1.43, 2.58). Age, body mass index, cigarette smoking, water/wildfowl consumption, and year of sampling were considered covariates. The results of this study support the premise that long-term dietary consumption of Lake Ontario sportfish, even at comparatively low levels, contributes significantly to the body burden of organochlorine compounds in western New York anglers and sportsmen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Bloom
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, 270 Farber Hall, 3435 Main St. Buffalo, NY 14214-3000, USA.
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