1
|
Dietz R, Letcher RJ, Aars J, Andersen M, Boltunov A, Born EW, Ciesielski TM, Das K, Dastnai S, Derocher AE, Desforges JP, Eulaers I, Ferguson S, Hallanger IG, Heide-Jørgensen MP, Heimbürger-Boavida LE, Hoekstra PF, Jenssen BM, Kohler SG, Larsen MM, Lindstrøm U, Lippold A, Morris A, Nabe-Nielsen J, Nielsen NH, Peacock E, Pinzone M, Rigét FF, Rosing-Asvid A, Routti H, Siebert U, Stenson G, Stern G, Strand J, Søndergaard J, Treu G, Víkingsson GA, Wang F, Welker JM, Wiig Ø, Wilson SJ, Sonne C. A risk assessment review of mercury exposure in Arctic marine and terrestrial mammals. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 829:154445. [PMID: 35304145 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
There has been a considerable number of reports on Hg concentrations in Arctic mammals since the last Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme (AMAP) effort to review biological effects of the exposure to mercury (Hg) in Arctic biota in 2010 and 2018. Here, we provide an update on the state of the knowledge of health risk associated with Hg concentrations in Arctic marine and terrestrial mammal species. Using available population-specific data post-2000, our ultimate goal is to provide an updated evidence-based estimate of the risk for adverse health effects from Hg exposure in Arctic mammal species at the individual and population level. Tissue residues of Hg in 13 species across the Arctic were classified into five risk categories (from No risk to Severe risk) based on critical tissue concentrations derived from experimental studies on harp seals and mink. Exposure to Hg lead to low or no risk for health effects in most populations of marine and terrestrial mammals, however, subpopulations of polar bears, pilot whales, narwhals, beluga and hooded seals are highly exposed in geographic hotspots raising concern for Hg-induced toxicological effects. About 6% of a total of 3500 individuals, across different marine mammal species, age groups and regions, are at high or severe risk of health effects from Hg exposure. The corresponding figure for the 12 terrestrial species, regions and age groups was as low as 0.3% of a total of 731 individuals analyzed for their Hg loads. Temporal analyses indicated that the proportion of polar bears at low or moderate risk has increased in East/West Greenland and Western Hudson Bay, respectively. However, there remain numerous knowledge gaps to improve risk assessments of Hg exposure in Arctic mammalian species, including the establishment of improved concentration thresholds and upscaling to the assessment of population-level effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rune Dietz
- Aarhus University, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Department of Ecoscience, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Robert J Letcher
- Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Health Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1A 0H3, Canada.
| | - Jon Aars
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Tromsø NO-9296, Norway
| | | | - Andrei Boltunov
- Marine Mammal Research and Expedition Centre, 36 Nahimovskiy pr., Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Erik W Born
- Greenland Institute of Natural Resources, P.O. Box 570, DK-3900 Nuuk, Greenland
| | - Tomasz M Ciesielski
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Krishna Das
- Freshwater and Oceanic sciences Unit of reSearch (FOCUS), University of Liege, 4000 Liege, Belgium
| | - Sam Dastnai
- Aarhus University, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Department of Ecoscience, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Andrew E Derocher
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Jean-Pierre Desforges
- Aarhus University, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Department of Ecoscience, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark; Department of Environmental Studies and Science, University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Igor Eulaers
- Aarhus University, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Department of Ecoscience, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark; Norwegian Polar Institute, Tromsø NO-9296, Norway
| | - Steve Ferguson
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 501 University Crescent, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N6, Canada; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada
| | | | | | - Lars-Eric Heimbürger-Boavida
- Géosciences Environnement Toulouse, CNRS/IRD/Université Paul Sabatier Toulouse III, Toulouse, France; Aix Marseille Université, CNRS/INSU, Université de Toulon, IRD, Mediterranean Institute of Oceanography (MIO) UM 110, Marseille, France
| | | | - Bjørn M Jenssen
- Aarhus University, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Department of Ecoscience, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark; Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Stephen Gustav Kohler
- Department of Chemistry, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Realfagbygget, E2-128, Gløshaugen, NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Martin M Larsen
- Aarhus University, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Department of Ecoscience, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Ulf Lindstrøm
- Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, NO-9037 Tromsø, Norway; Department of Arctic Technology, Institute of Marine Research, FRAM Centre, NO-9007 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Anna Lippold
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Tromsø NO-9296, Norway
| | - Adam Morris
- Northern Contaminants Program, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, 15 Eddy Street, 14th floor, Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0H4, Canada
| | - Jacob Nabe-Nielsen
- Aarhus University, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Department of Ecoscience, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Nynne H Nielsen
- Greenland Institute of Natural Resources, P.O. Box 570, DK-3900 Nuuk, Greenland
| | - Elizabeth Peacock
- USGS Alaska Science Center, 4210 University Dr., Anchorage, AK 99508-4626, USA
| | - Marianna Pinzone
- Department of Environmental Studies and Science, University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Frank F Rigét
- Aarhus University, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Department of Ecoscience, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Aqqalu Rosing-Asvid
- Greenland Institute of Natural Resources, P.O. Box 570, DK-3900 Nuuk, Greenland
| | - Heli Routti
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Tromsø NO-9296, Norway
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstr. 6, DE-25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - Garry Stenson
- Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Centre, Department DFO-MPO, 80 EastWhite Hills vie, St John's A1C 5X1, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Gary Stern
- Centre for Earth Observation Sciences (CEOS), Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth and Resources, University of Manitoba, 586Wallace Bld, 125 Dysart Rd., Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T, 2N2, Canada
| | - Jakob Strand
- Aarhus University, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Department of Ecoscience, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Jens Søndergaard
- Aarhus University, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Department of Ecoscience, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Gabriele Treu
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, 10315 Berlin, Germany
| | - Gisli A Víkingsson
- Marine and Freshwater Research Institute, Skúlagata 4, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
| | - Feiyue Wang
- Centre for Earth Observation Sciences (CEOS), Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth and Resources, University of Manitoba, 586Wallace Bld, 125 Dysart Rd., Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T, 2N2, Canada
| | - Jeffrey M Welker
- University of Alaska Anchorage, Anchorage 99508, United States; University of Oulu, Oulu 90014, Finland; University of the Arctic, Rovaniemi 96460, Finland
| | - Øystein Wiig
- Natural History Museum, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1172, Blindern, N-0318 Oslo, Norway
| | - Simon J Wilson
- Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme (AMAP) Secretariat, Box 6606 Stakkevollan, N-9296 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Christian Sonne
- Aarhus University, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Department of Ecoscience, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Schmidt B, Sonne C, Nachtsheim D, Wohlsein P, Persson S, Dietz R, Siebert U. Liver histopathology of Baltic grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) over three decades. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 145:106110. [PMID: 32937284 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.106110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The liver plays an important role in the metabolism and elimination of endogenic and exogenic lipid-soluble compounds. Multiple studies have shown that polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and dichlorodiphenyl trichloroethane (DDT) lead to morphological changes in liver cells. The aim of the present study was therefore to analyse liver changes over time in Baltic grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) and to correlate these with historical PCB and DDT contaminations. A total of 191 liver samples were collected between 1981 and 2015 in the Gulf of Bothnia and northern Baltic Proper. Six histological features were evaluated, including portal mononuclear cell infiltration, random mononuclear cell infiltration, lipid granulomas, hepatocellular fat vacuoles, hepatic stellate cells and mild multifocal bile duct hyperplasia accompanied by portal fibrosis. Three of the six lesions showed a significant correlation with age. Furthermore, a positive correlation between portal mononuclear cell infiltration and mild multifocal bile duct hyperplasia was found. Additionally, lipid granulomas were significantly correlated with hepatic stellate cells. More importantly, hepatic stellate cells and mild multifocal bile duct hyperplasia were correlated with adipose tissue (blubber) concentrations of ƩPCB, measured in a subsample (n = 34) of all individuals. No correlation with lesions and ƩDDT concentrations were found. These results show that age is an important factor for the development of these liver lesions, but PCBs burden may be an influencing factor. This is in agreement with previous studies of marine mammals in the Baltic Sea as well as in the Arctic. We therefore conclude that not only age of the animals, but also exposure to PCBs should be taken into account when understanding and evaluating the current health status of Baltic grey seals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Britta Schmidt
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstraße 6, D-25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - Christian Sonne
- Marine Mammal Research, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Dominik Nachtsheim
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstraße 6, D-25761 Büsum, Germany
| | - Peter Wohlsein
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Bünteweg 17, D-30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Sara Persson
- Department of Environmental Research and Monitoring, Swedish Museum of Natural History, P.O. Box 50007, SE-104 05 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rune Dietz
- Marine Mammal Research, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Werftstraße 6, D-25761 Büsum, Germany; Marine Mammal Research, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Dominique M, Letcher RJ, Rutter A, Langlois VS. Comparative review of the distribution and burden of contaminants in the body of polar bears. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:32456-32466. [PMID: 32556983 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-09193-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Historical (or legacy) contaminants, such as metals and persistent organic pollutants (POPs; e.g., polychlorinated biphenyls) have been measured in circumpolar subpopulations of polar bears, especially from Hudson Bay, East Greenland, and Svalbard, but substantially less is currently known about new and/or emerging contaminants such as polychlorinated naphthalenes, current-use pesticides, organotins, and polycyclic aromatic compounds (PACs). The polar bear (Ursus maritimus) is an apex Arctic predator that accumulates high levels of bioaccumulative POPs and mercury (Hg), but there is currently no comprehensive profiling of the present knowledge on contaminants in tissue and body compartments in polar bears. Based on current literature reports and data, and including archived museum samples (as far back as the 1300s) and up to 2018, the aim of this review is to utilize available data to examine the comparative distribution and burden of mainly lipophilic contaminants in kidney, liver, fat, and other body compartments, such as milk, blood, and brain. Highlight outcomes from this review include the following: (1) the kidneys are one of the most important tissue depots of contaminants in polar bears; (2) there is a critical lack of data concerning the presence of metals of concern (other than Hg); and (3) there currently are no data available on the concentrations of many newer and emerging contaminants, such as PACs, which is especially relevant given the increasing oil and gas development in regions, such as the Beaufort Sea (Canada). Additionally, given the vulnerability of polar bear populations worldwide, there is a need to develop non-invasive approaches to monitor contaminant exposure in polar bears.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Dominique
- Centre Eau Terre Environnement, Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Robert J Letcher
- Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Health Division, Wildlife and Landscape Science Directorate, Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Allison Rutter
- School of Environmental Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Valerie S Langlois
- Centre Eau Terre Environnement, Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Québec City, QC, Canada.
- Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Health Division, Wildlife and Landscape Science Directorate, Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
- Ecotoxicogenomics and Endocrine Disruption, Centre Eau Terre Environnement, Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), 490, rue de la Couronne, Québec, QC, G1K 9A9, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Morris AD, Letcher RJ, Dyck M, Chandramouli B, Cosgrove J. Concentrations of legacy and new contaminants are related to metabolite profiles in Hudson Bay polar bears. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 168:364-374. [PMID: 30384230 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2018.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Revised: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/07/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
There are very few metabolomics assessments based on field accumulated, uncontrolled contaminant exposures in wildlife, particularly in the Arctic. In the present study, targeted metabolomics and contaminant data were analyzed together to assess potential influences of contaminant exposure on the hepatic metabolome of male polar bears (n = 29) from the southern and western Hudson Bay (SHB and WHB respectively), Canada. The 29 metabolites identified as important in the differentiation of the two subpopulations after partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) included phosphatidylcholines (PCs), acylcarnitines (ACs; involved in β-oxidation of fatty acids), and the fatty acid (FA) arachidonic acid (ARA). Perfluorinated alkyl substances, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p'-DDE) and some highly chlorinated ortho-polychlorinated biphenyl congeners were greater in the SHB bears and were consistently inversely correlated with discriminating ACs and PCs between the subpopulations. The concentrations of discriminatory, legacy organochlorine pesticides along with one tetrachlorobiphenyl were greater in the WHB and were directly correlated with the VIP-identified ACs and PCs. ARA, glycerophospholipid and several amino acid metabolic pathways were identified as different between subpopulations and/or were impacted. ARA is an important, conditionally essential, dietary n-6 FA and is also part of the inflammation response, and elevated concentrations in the SHB could be related to differences in chronic contaminant exposure and/or differences in diet and/or season, among a number of possible explanations. Dietary tracers (stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen) were correlated with some discriminatory metabolites, supporting the hypothesis that dietary variation was also an important factor in the differentiation of the subpopulations. The results suggest linkages between contaminant exposure in Hudson Bay polar bears and elements of the hepatic metabolome, particularly those related to lipid metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A D Morris
- Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Health Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Department of Chemistry, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | - R J Letcher
- Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Health Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Department of Chemistry, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | - M Dyck
- Department of Environment, Government of Nunavut, Iqaluit, NU, Canada
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sonne C, Leifsson PS, Søndergaard J, Dietz R. Hepatic and renal histology and mercury concentrations of North West and North East Greenland narwhals (Monodon monoceros). JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2018; 81:202-211. [PMID: 29437549 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2018.1435601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Narwhals (Monodon monoceros) are at the top of the Arctic food web and therefore might biomagnify high total mercury (Hg) concentrations in organs and tissues. The aim of this study was to determine histopathology and Hg concentrations in liver and kidneys from 15 North East Greenland narwhals (3 subadult females, 8 adult females, 3 subadult males, and 1 adult male) and compare data with previous observations of 12 North West Greenland specimens (1 subadult female, 4 adult females, 1 subadult male, and 6 adult males). The zoological length was significantly larger and hepatic and renal concentrations significantly higher in adults compared to subadults. When comparing tissues, the Hg levels were significantly the highest in liver, while a correlation between metal levels in liver and kidneys was positive and significant. Histological examination of renal tissues presented four types of glomerular lesions (capillary dilatation [0-100%], membrane thickening [0-100%], dilatation of space [0-80%], and sclerosis [0-70%]) and two tubular lesions (atrophy/hyalinization [0-40%] and casts [0-60%]). Hepatic tissues exhibited three portal lesions (fibrosis [0-33%], cell infiltrates [0-40%], and bile duct proliferation [0-40%]) and two parenchymal lesions (steatosis [83-100%] and lipid-filled Ito cells [0-33%]). All 12 lesions were found in adult whales from North West Greenland while eight were present in adult whales from North East Greenland. Six lesions were detected in subadults from North East Greenland and four in subadults from North West Greenland. A significantly higher frequency of dilatation and hyalinization of Bowman's space and capsule and glomerular capillary dilatation was found in adult narwhals from West Greenland. There was no marked difference in Hg concentrations in whales with and without histological lesions. In conclusion, the prevalence of histological changes and Hg levels were the highest in adults and therefore both age and metal are important factors to include when evaluating liver and kidney lesions in narwhals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Sonne
- a Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre , Aarhus University , Roskilde , Denmark
| | - Pall S Leifsson
- b Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences , University of Copenhagen , Frederiksberg , Denmark
| | - Jens Søndergaard
- a Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre , Aarhus University , Roskilde , Denmark
| | - Rune Dietz
- a Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre , Aarhus University , Roskilde , Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Jacobsen ML, Jaspers VLB, Ciesielski TM, Jenssen BM, Løseth ME, Briels N, Eulaers I, Leifsson PS, Rigét FF, Gomez-Ramirez P, Sonne C. Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) liver and thyroid gland histopathology as a result of in ovo exposure to the flame retardants tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate and Dechlorane Plus. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2017; 80:525-531. [PMID: 28696837 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2017.1336414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica) were exposed in ovo to tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TDCIPP; 500 ng/µl), Dechlorane Plus (DP; 500 ng/µl), or a 1:1 mixture of these two to investigate the effects on liver and thyroid gland morphology. Histological examination of 14-day-old quails showed that exposure to TDCIPP or the mixture induced hepatic sinusoidal dilatation. No marked effects were seen for DP alone. In addition, the mixture produced divergence of thyroid gland follicles and proliferation of follicular cells. Our study is the first demonstrating histopathological alterations as a result of exposure during early development to the flame retardants TDCIPP or a TDCIPP-DP mixture suggesting the need for further research efforts to investigate potential adverse health effects associated with exposure to these environmental chemicals in wild birds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mona L Jacobsen
- a Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences , University of Copenhagen , Frederiksberg , Denmark
- b Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre , Aarhus University , Roskilde , Denmark
| | - Veerle L B Jaspers
- c Department of Biology , Norwegian University of Science and Technology , Trondheim , Norway
| | - Tomasz M Ciesielski
- c Department of Biology , Norwegian University of Science and Technology , Trondheim , Norway
| | - Bjørn M Jenssen
- c Department of Biology , Norwegian University of Science and Technology , Trondheim , Norway
| | - Mari E Løseth
- c Department of Biology , Norwegian University of Science and Technology , Trondheim , Norway
| | - Nathalie Briels
- c Department of Biology , Norwegian University of Science and Technology , Trondheim , Norway
| | - Igor Eulaers
- b Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre , Aarhus University , Roskilde , Denmark
| | - Páll S Leifsson
- a Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences , University of Copenhagen , Frederiksberg , Denmark
| | - Frank F Rigét
- b Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre , Aarhus University , Roskilde , Denmark
| | - Pilar Gomez-Ramirez
- d Area of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , University of Murcia , Murcia , Spain
| | - Christian Sonne
- b Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre , Aarhus University , Roskilde , Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Villa S, Migliorati S, Monti GS, Holoubek I, Vighi M. Risk of POP mixtures on the Arctic food chain. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2017; 36:1181-1192. [PMID: 28054401 DOI: 10.1002/etc.3671] [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: 06/08/2016] [Revised: 08/07/2016] [Accepted: 10/27/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The exposure of the Arctic ecosystem to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) was assessed through a review of literature data. Concentrations of 19 chemicals or congeneric groups were estimated for the highest levels of the Arctic food chain (Arctic cod, ringed seals, and polar bears). The ecotoxicological risk for seals, bears, and bear cubs was estimated by applying the concentration addition (CA) concept. The risk of POP mixtures was very low in seals. By contrast, the risk was 2 orders of magnitude higher than the risk threshold for adult polar bears and even more (3 orders of magnitude above the threshold) for bear cubs fed with contaminated milk. Based on the temporal trends available for many of the chemicals, the temporal trend of the mixture risk for bear cubs was calculated. Relative to the 1980s, a decrease in risk from the POP mixture is evident, mainly because of international control measures. However, the composition of the mixture substantially changes, and the contribution of new POPs (particularly perfluorooctane sulfonate) increases. These results support the effectiveness of control measures, such as those promulgated in the Stockholm Convention, as well as the urgent need for their implementation for new and emerging POPs. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:1181-1192. © 2017 SETAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Villa
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Milano Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - Sonia Migliorati
- Department of Economics, Management, and Statistics, University of Milano Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - Gianna Serafina Monti
- Department of Economics, Management, and Statistics, University of Milano Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - Ivan Holoubek
- Research Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment (RECETOX), Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Marco Vighi
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Milano Bicocca, Milano, Italy
- Madrid Institute for Advanced Studies in Water (IMDEA Water), Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Tartu S, Bourgeon S, Aars J, Andersen M, Polder A, Thiemann GW, Welker JM, Routti H. Sea ice-associated decline in body condition leads to increased concentrations of lipophilic pollutants in polar bears (Ursus maritimus) from Svalbard, Norway. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 576:409-419. [PMID: 27794227 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.10.132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2016] [Revised: 10/18/2016] [Accepted: 10/18/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Global climate changes are magnified in the Arctic and are having an especially dramatic effect on the spatial and temporal distribution and the thickness traits of sea ice. Decline of Arctic sea ice may lead to qualitative and/or quantitative changes in diet and reduced body condition (i.e. adipose tissue stores) of ice-associated apex predators such as polar bears (Ursus maritimus). This may further affect their tissue concentrations of lipophilic pollutants. We determined how variations in adipose tissue stores associated to both breeding status and spatial changes in sea ice conditions and diet influence concentrations and biotransformation of lipophilic persistent organic pollutants (POPs). We collected 112 blood and fat samples from female polar bears (Ursus maritimus) of different breeding status (alone, with cubs of the year, or with yearlings) during two seasons (April and September) in 2012 and 2013 at three locations of Svalbard, Norway, with contrasted sea ice conditions. We inferred diet from nitrogen and carbon stable isotope ratios in red blood cells and fatty acid composition in adipose tissue. Relative to diet, body condition, which was negatively related to sea ice extent at both temporal and spatial scales, was the most important predictor for concentrations of POPs in plasma and fat, whereas diet showed a minor influence. Additionally, fatter females were more efficient at biotransforming PCBs than were leaner ones. Breeding status influenced the concentrations of less lipophilic compounds such as β-hexachlorocyclohexane, which were lower in females with yearlings, probably due to excretion into milk and subsequent offloading to young. In conclusion, our results indicate that declining sea ice indirectly leads to increased concentrations of lipophilic pollutants in polar bears mediated through reduced feeding opportunities and declining body condition rather than changes in diet composition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Tartu
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Sophie Bourgeon
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Tromsø, Norway; UiT-The Arctic University of Norway, Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Jon Aars
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Tromsø, Norway
| | | | - Anuschka Polder
- Norwegian University of Life Science, Campus Adamstua, Oslo, Norway; York University, Faculty of Environmental Studies, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Jeffrey M Welker
- University of Alaska Anchorage, Department of Biological Sciences, Anchorage, AK, USA; University Center in Svalbard, Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway
| | - Heli Routti
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Tromsø, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sonne C, Gustavson K, Eulaers I, Desforges JP, Letcher RJ, Rigét FF, Styrishave B, Dietz R. Risk evaluation of the Arctic environmental POP exposure based on critical body residue and critical daily dose using captive Greenland sledge dogs (Canis familiaris) as surrogate species. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2016; 88:221-227. [PMID: 26773392 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2015.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2015] [Revised: 10/23/2015] [Accepted: 11/28/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The risk from POP (persistent organic pollutant) exposure and subsequent reproductive, immunotoxic and liver histopathological effects was evaluated in a classical parallel trial on Greenland sledge dogs (Canis familiaris) fed contaminated minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) blubber. First the critical body residues (CBRs) were estimated using the physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for seven POP compounds based on rat critical daily doses (CDDs). These were then compared with the actual daily oral POP doses (DD) and body residues (BR) in the sledge dogs by calculating risk quotients (RQDD: DD/CDD; RQBR: BR/CBR; ≥1 indicates risk). The results showed that risk quotients for reproductive, immunotoxic and liver histopathological effects were significantly lowest in the control group (p<0.01) while risk quotients based on daily doses (RQDD) were significantly lower than RQs based on body residues (RQBR) (all p<0.01). RQBR in the exposed group ranged from 1.0-12 for reproductive and immunotoxic effects while those for liver histopathological effects ranged from 0.7-3.0. PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) and chlordanes were the dominant driver behind high immune and reproductive RQs while dieldrin was the most important factor behind RQs for liver histopathology. Principal component analyses and Spearman rank correlation analyses showed that complement and cellular immune parameters were significantly negative correlated with RQBR (all p<0.05) while logistic regression showed that RQDD had a significant effect on the number of born cups (p=0.03). No significantly relations were found between RQs and hormone concentrations, number of gestations, antibody titres or liver histopathology. These results confirm previous studies showing that POP exposure negatively impacts steroid hormones, various immune parameters, as well as liver histopathology in sledge dogs. It is also clear that RQBR is the best reflector of health effects from POP exposure and that it is especially accurate in predicting immune and reproductive effects. We recommend that PBPK modelled (CBR) and RQBR should be used in the assessment of POP exposure and health effects in Arctic top predators.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Sonne
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Kim Gustavson
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Igor Eulaers
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Jean-Pierre Desforges
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Robert J Letcher
- Wildlife and Landscape Science Directorate, Science and Technology Branch, Environment Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1A 0H3, Canada
| | - Frank F Rigét
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Bjarne Styrishave
- Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100, Denmark
| | - Rune Dietz
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Pavlova V, Grimm V, Dietz R, Sonne C, Vorkamp K, Rigét FF, Letcher RJ, Gustavson K, Desforges JP, Nabe-Nielsen J. Modeling Population-Level Consequences of Polychlorinated Biphenyl Exposure in East Greenland Polar Bears. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2016; 70:143-54. [PMID: 26289812 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-015-0203-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) can cause endocrine disruption, cancer, immunosuppression, or reproductive failure in animals. We used an individual-based model to explore whether and how PCB-associated reproductive failure could affect the dynamics of a hypothetical polar bear (Ursus maritimus) population exposed to PCBs to the same degree as the East Greenland subpopulation. Dose-response data from experimental studies on a surrogate species, the mink (Mustela vision), were used in the absence of similar data for polar bears. Two alternative types of reproductive failure in relation to maternal sum-PCB concentrations were considered: increased abortion rate and increased cub mortality. We found that the quantitative impact of PCB-induced reproductive failure on population growth rate depended largely on the actual type of reproductive failure involved. Critical potencies of the dose-response relationship for decreasing the population growth rate were established for both modeled types of reproductive failure. Comparing the model predictions of the age-dependent trend of sum-PCBs concentrations in females with actual field measurements from East Greenland indicated that it was unlikely that PCB exposure caused a high incidence of abortions in the subpopulation. However, on the basis of this analysis, it could not be excluded that PCB exposure contributes to higher cub mortality. Our results highlight the necessity for further research on the possible influence of PCBs on polar bear reproduction regarding their physiological pathway. This includes determining the exact cause of reproductive failure, i.e., in utero exposure versus lactational exposure of offspring; the timing of offspring death; and establishing the most relevant reference metrics for the dose-response relationship.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Viola Pavlova
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Volker Grimm
- Department of Ecological Modelling, Helmholtz Center for Environmental Research - UFZ, Permoserstraße 15, 04318, Leipzig, Germany
- Institute for Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Maulbeerallee 2, 14469, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Rune Dietz
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
- Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, C.F. Møllers Allé 8, 8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Christian Sonne
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
- Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, C.F. Møllers Allé 8, 8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Katrin Vorkamp
- Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, C.F. Møllers Allé 8, 8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
- Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Frank F Rigét
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Robert J Letcher
- Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Division, Science and Technology Branch, Environment Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0H3, Canada
| | - Kim Gustavson
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Jean-Pierre Desforges
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Jacob Nabe-Nielsen
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
- Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, C.F. Møllers Allé 8, 8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Vitamins A and E in liver, kidney, and whole blood of East Greenland polar bears sampled 1994–2008: reference values and temporal trends. Polar Biol 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s00300-015-1830-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
|
12
|
Dietz R, Gustavson K, Sonne C, Desforges JP, Rigét FF, Pavlova V, McKinney MA, Letcher RJ. Physiologically-based pharmacokinetic modelling of immune, reproductive and carcinogenic effects from contaminant exposure in polar bears (Ursus maritimus) across the Arctic. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2015; 140:45-55. [PMID: 25825130 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2015.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2015] [Revised: 03/13/2015] [Accepted: 03/14/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Polar bears (Ursus maritimus) consume large quantities of seal blubber and other high trophic marine mammals and consequently have some of the highest tissue concentrations of organohalogen contaminants (OHCs) among Arctic biota. In the present paper we carried out a risk quotient (RQ) evaluation on OHC-exposed polar bears harvested from 1999 to 2008 and from 11 circumpolar subpopulations spanning from Alaska to Svalbard in order to evaluate the risk of OHC-mediated reproductive effects (embryotoxicity, teratogenicity), immunotoxicity and carcinogenicity (genotoxicity). This RQ evaluation was based on the Critical Body Residue (CBR) concept and a Physiologically-Based Pharmacokinetic Modelling (PBPK) approach using OHC concentrations measured in polar bear adipose or liver tissue. The range of OHC concentrations within polar bear populations were as follows for adipose, sum polychlorinated biphenyls ∑PCBs (1797-10,537 ng/g lw), sum methylsulphone-PCB ∑MeSO2-PCBs (110-672 ng/g lw), sum chlordanes ∑CHLs (765-3477 ng/g lw), α-hexachlorocyclohexane α-HCH (8.5-91.3 ng/g lw), β-hexachlorocyclohexane β-HCH (65.5-542 ng/g lw), sum chlorbenzenes ∑ClBzs (145-304 ng/g lw), dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane ∑DDTs (31.5-206 ng/g lw), dieldrin (69-249 ng/g lw), polybrominated diphenyl ethers ∑PBDEs (4.6-78.4 ng/g lw). For liver, the perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) concentrations ranged from 231-2792 ng/g ww. The total additive RQ from all OHCs ranged from 4.3 in Alaska to 28.6 in East Greenland bears for effects on reproduction, immune health and carcinogenicity, highlighting the important result that the toxic effect threshold (i.e. RQ>1) was exceeded for all polar bear populations assessed. PCBs were the main contributors for all three effect categories, contributing from 70.6% to 94.3% of the total risk and a RQ between 3.8-22.5. ∑MeSO2-PCBs were the second highest effect contributor for reproductive and immunological effects (0.17<RQ<1.4), whereas PFOS was the second highest effect contributor for carcinogenic (genotoxic) effects (0.35<RQ<2.5). The results from this study corroborate and lend further support to previous assessments of the possible adverse health effects of exposure to known and measured OHCs in polar bears. We therefore suggest that Critical Daily Doses (CDD) should be investigated in "ex vivo" dose-response studies on polar bears to replace laboratory studies on rats (Rattus rattus) to reveal whether high RQs are maintained.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rune Dietz
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Kim Gustavson
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Christian Sonne
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Jean-Pierre Desforges
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Frank F Rigét
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Viola Pavlova
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Melissa A McKinney
- Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA; Center for Environmental Sciences and Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
| | - Robert J Letcher
- Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Health Division, Science and Technology Branch, Environment Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada K1A 0H3.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Pedersen KE, Styrishave B, Sonne C, Dietz R, Jenssen BM. Accumulation and potential health effects of organohalogenated compounds in the arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus)--a review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2015; 502:510-516. [PMID: 25300015 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2014.09.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2014] [Revised: 09/17/2014] [Accepted: 09/17/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
This review addresses biological effects of anthropogenic organohalogenated compounds in the arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus). When considering the current levels, spatial and tissue distributions of selected organic pollutants in arctic fox subpopulations, especially the Svalbard based populations accumulate high levels. The dominating contaminant groups are the polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and chlordanes (CHLs), which reach high levels in adipose tissues, adrenals and liver. Recent controlled exposure studies on domesticated arctic fox and Greenland sledge dogs, show adverse health effects associated with OC concentrations lower than those measured in free-ranging populations. This indicates that especially populations at Svalbard may be at risk of experiencing OC related effects. The arctic fox as such may be an overlooked species in the Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programs and it would add further information about pollution in the Arctic to include this species in the monitoring program.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathrine Eggers Pedersen
- Toxicology Laboratory, Section of Advanced Drug Analysis, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.
| | - Bjarne Styrishave
- Toxicology Laboratory, Section of Advanced Drug Analysis, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Christian Sonne
- Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Rune Dietz
- Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Bjørn Munro Jenssen
- Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Department of Biology, NO 7491 Trondheim, Norway; University Centre in Svalbard, Department of Arctic Technology, NO 9171 Longyearbyen, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Gabrielsen KM, Krokstad JS, Villanger GD, Blair DAD, Obregon MJ, Sonne C, Dietz R, Letcher RJ, Jenssen BM. Thyroid hormones and deiodinase activity in plasma and tissues in relation to high levels of organohalogen contaminants in East Greenland polar bears (Ursus maritimus). ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2015; 136:413-23. [PMID: 25460663 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2014.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2014] [Revised: 09/22/2014] [Accepted: 09/24/2014] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown relationships between organohalogen contaminants (OHCs) and circulating levels of thyroid hormones (THs) in arctic wildlife. However, there is a lack of knowledge concerning the possible functional effects of OHCs on TH status in target tissues for TH-dependent activity. The relationships between circulating (plasma) levels of OHCs and various TH variables in plasma as well as in liver, muscle and kidney tissues from East Greenland sub-adult polar bears (Ursus maritimus) sampled in 2011 (n=7) were therefore investigated. The TH variables included 3.3',5.5'-tetraiodothyronine or thyroxine (T4), 3.3',5-triiodothyronine (T3) and type 1 (D1) and type 2 (D2) deiodinase activities. Principal component analysis (PCA) combined with correlation analyses demonstrated negative relationships between individual polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and their hydroxylated (OH-) metabolites and T4 in both plasma and muscle. There were both positive and negative relationships between individual OHCs and D1 and D2 activities in muscle, liver and kidney tissues. In general, PCBs, OH-PCBs and polybrominated dipehenyl ethers (PBDEs) were positively correlated to D1 and D2 activities, whereas organochlorine pesticides and byproducts (OCPs) were negatively associated with D1 and D2 activities. These results support the hypothesis that OHCs can affect TH status and action in the target tissues of polar bears. TH levels and deiodinase activities in target tissues can be sensitive endpoints for exposure of TH-disrupting compounds in arctic wildlife, and thus, tissue-specific responses in target organs should be further considered when assessing TH disruption in wildlife studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Julie Stene Krokstad
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Gro Dehli Villanger
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway; Division of Mental Health, Department of Child Development and Mental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, P.O. Box 4404 Nydalen, 0473 Oslo, Norway
| | - David A D Blair
- Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Health Division, Science and Technology Branch, Environment Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0H3; Department of Chemistry, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1S 5B6
| | - Maria-Jesus Obregon
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomedicas, Centro Mixto from CSIC-UAM, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Christian Sonne
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Roskilde, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000, Denmark
| | - Rune Dietz
- Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Roskilde, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000, Denmark
| | - Robert J Letcher
- Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Health Division, Science and Technology Branch, Environment Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0H3; Department of Chemistry, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1S 5B6
| | - Bjørn Munro Jenssen
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Sonne C, Bach L, Søndergaard J, Rigét FF, Dietz R, Mosbech A, Leifsson PS, Gustavson K. Evaluation of the use of common sculpin (Myoxocephalus scorpius) organ histology as bioindicator for element exposure in the fjord of the mining area Maarmorilik, West Greenland. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2014; 133:304-11. [PMID: 24991745 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2014.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Revised: 05/28/2014] [Accepted: 05/30/2014] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The former Black Angel lead-zinc mine in Maarmorilik, West Greenland, is a historic example of how mining activity may result in a significant impact on the surrounding fjord system in terms of elevated concentrations of especially lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn) in seawater, sediments and surrounding biota. In order to shed light on the present contamination and possible effects in the fjord we initiated a range of studies including a pilot study on gill and liver morphology of common sculpins (Myoxocephalus scorpius) around Maarmorilik. Sculpins were caught and sampled at five different stations known to represent a gradient of Pb concentrations. Fish livers from all specimens were analyzed for relevant elements in the area: Fe, Zn, As, Cu, Se, Cd, Pb, Ag, Hg, Co and Ni. Lead, As and Hg showed significant differences among the five stations. For 20% of the sculpins, Hg concentrations were in the range of lowest observed effect dose (LOED) of 0.1-0.5 μg/g ww for toxic threshold on reproduction and subclinical endpoints. Likewise LOEDs for tissue lesions, LOEDs for biochemistry, growth, survival and reproduction were exceeded for Cd (0.42-1.8 μg/g ww) and for As (11.6 μg/g ww) in 28% and 85% of the sculpins, respectively. Similar to this, the no observed effect dose (NOED) for biochemistry was exceeded for Pb (0.32 μg/g ww) and for growth, mortality and reproduction for Zn (60-68 μg/g ww) in 33% and 24% of the sculpins, respectively. For all sculpins, females were significantly larger than males and for five of the elements (Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Se) females had higher concentrations. The chronic lesions observed in liver (mononuclear cell infiltrates, necrosis, vacuolar hepatocytes, portal fibrosis, bile duct hyperplasia, active melanomacrophage centers) and gills (fusion and edema of secondary lamellae, laminar telangiectasis, mononuclear cell infiltrates, blebs) were similar to those in the literature studies for both wild and laboratory exposed sculpins and other fish species carrying similar or higher Hg concentrations. Ignoring sex and size, specimens with hepatic cell infiltrates had the highest concentrations of most elements, a relation that was also found for gill telangiectasis and Hg (all p < 0.05). When controlling for sex and size, the prevalence of vacuolar hepatocytes and endoparasites was significantly highest at the three most contaminated stations and similar differences were found for liver necrosis. We suggest that beside exposure to mining-related elements, other environmental factors, such as parasites, might be co-factors in the development of the observed liver and gill lesions. Therefore, sculpin liver and gill pathology are likely to be suitable health indicators when biomonitoring gradients of mining and other element related activity effects; while a larger study is required to fully evaluate the relationships.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Sonne
- Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Frederiksborgvej 399, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Lis Bach
- Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Frederiksborgvej 399, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Jens Søndergaard
- Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Frederiksborgvej 399, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Frank F Rigét
- Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Frederiksborgvej 399, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Rune Dietz
- Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Frederiksborgvej 399, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Anders Mosbech
- Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Frederiksborgvej 399, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Pall S Leifsson
- University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Bülowsvej 17, DK-1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Kim Gustavson
- Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Frederiksborgvej 399, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Jaber JR, Pérez J, Carrascosa C, Carballo M, Fernández A. Non-specific reactive hepatitis in dolphins stranded in the Canary Islands. JOURNAL OF APPLIED ANIMAL RESEARCH 2013. [DOI: 10.1080/09712119.2013.787363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
17
|
Dorneles PR, Sanz P, Eppe G, Azevedo AF, Bertozzi CP, Martínez MA, Secchi ER, Barbosa LA, Cremer M, Alonso MB, Torres JPM, Lailson-Brito J, Malm O, Eljarrat E, Barceló D, Das K. High accumulation of PCDD, PCDF, and PCB congeners in marine mammals from Brazil: a serious PCB problem. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2013; 463-464:309-318. [PMID: 23827355 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2013.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2012] [Revised: 06/03/2013] [Accepted: 06/03/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Blubber samples from three delphinid species (false killer whale, Guiana and rough-toothed dolphin), as well as liver samples from franciscana dolphins were analyzed for dioxins and related compounds (DRCs). Samples were collected from 35 cetaceans stranded or incidentally captured in a highly industrialized and urbanized area (Southeast and Southern Brazilian regions). Dioxin-like PCBs accounted for over 83% of the total TEQ for all cetaceans. Non-ortho coplanar PCBs, for franciscanas (82%), and mono-ortho PCBs (up to 80%), for delphinids, constituted the groups of highest contribution to total TEQ. Regarding franciscana dolphins, significant negative correlations were found between total length (TL) and three variables, ΣTEQ-DRCs, ΣTEQ-PCDF and ΣTEQ non-ortho PCB. An increasing efficiency of the detoxifying activity with the growth of the animal may be a plausible explanation for these findings. This hypothesis is reinforced by the significant negative correlation found between TL and PCB126/PCB169 concentration ratio. DRC concentrations (ng/g lipids) varied from 36 to 3006, for franciscana dolphins, as well as from 356 to 30,776, for delphinids. The sum of dioxin-like and indicator PCBs varied from 34,662 to 279,407 ng/g lipids, for Guiana dolphins from Rio de Janeiro state, which are among the highest PCB concentrations ever reported for cetaceans. The high concentrations found in our study raise concern not only on the conservation of Brazilian coastal cetaceans, but also on the possibility of human health problem due to consumption of fish from Brazilian estuaries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paulo R Dorneles
- Biophysics Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Brazil.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Dietz R, Rigét FF, Sonne C, Born EW, Bechshøft T, McKinney MA, Letcher RJ. Three decades (1983-2010) of contaminant trends in East Greenland polar bears (Ursus maritimus). Part 1: legacy organochlorine contaminants. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2013; 59:485-93. [PMID: 23078749 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2012.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2012] [Revised: 09/06/2012] [Accepted: 09/07/2012] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Legacy organochlorine contaminants were determined in adipose tissues from 294 polar bears (Ursus maritimus) sampled in East Greenland in 23 of the 28years between 1983 and 2010. Of 19 major legacy contaminants and congeners (ΣPCB, 4 PCB congeners (CB153, 180, 170/190), ΣDDT, p,p'-DDE, p,p' -DDD and p,p'-DDT, α- and β-hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH), HCB, octachlorostyrene, dieldrin, oxychlordane, cis- and trans-chlordane, cis- and trans-nonachlor, heptachlor epoxide and BB-153), 18 showed statistically significant average yearly declines of -4.4% (range: -2.0 to -10.8%/year) among subadult polar bears (i.e. females<5years, males<6years). For example, the ∑PCB concentrations declined 2.7 fold from 22730ng/g lw (95% C.I.: 12470-32990ng/g lw) in 1983-1986 to 8473ng/g lw (95% C.I.: 6369-9776ng/g lw) in 2006-2010. Similar but fewer statistically significant trends were found for adult females and adult males likely due to smaller sample size and years. Despite declines as a result of international regulations, relatively high levels of these historic pollutants persist in East Greenland polar bear tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rune Dietz
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Arctic Research Centre, Roskilde, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000, Denmark.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Sonne C, Letcher RJ, Leifsson PS, Rigét FF, Bechshøft TØ, Bossi R, Asmund G, Dietz R. Temporal monitoring of liver and kidney lesions in contaminated East Greenland polar bears (Ursus maritimus) during 1999-2010. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2012; 48:143-149. [PMID: 22922222 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2012.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2012] [Revised: 07/02/2012] [Accepted: 07/08/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Organohalogen contaminants bioaccumulate to high concentrations in tissues of polar bears (Ursus maritimus). The exposure levels are in the order to be toxic to inner organs like liver and kidney. We therefore investigated the temporal development of lesions in liver (n=115) and kidney (n=122) samples from East Greenland polar bears taken over the 12 year period from 1999 to 2010. Seven liver and seven kidney lesions were observed of which six were age-related. Controlling for this, the analyses showed that hepatic steatosis and renal cell infiltrations, glomerular sclerosis and tubular hyperplasia decreased over the investigated time period (all p<0.05). Similarly, hypertrophy of hepatic Ito cells, renal glomerular capillary wall thickening and interstitial fibrosis increased over the study period (all p<0.05). Regarding contaminant, concentrations of polybrominated diphenyl ethers in adipose tissue were negatively associated with hepatic mononuclear cell infiltrations (p=0.05) and a similar trend was found for Hg (p=0.09). Hexachlorobenzene was positively associated with portal cell infiltrations and hepatic lipid granulomas, while polychlorinated biphenyls were negatively associated with the prevalence of steatosis (both p<0.05) and a similar trend was found for hexachlorocyclohexanes (p=0.08). Mercury was positively correlated with the frequencies of hypertrophic Ito cells (p=0.002) and a similar trend was found for perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (p=0.07). In renal tissue, hexachlorocyclohexanes were positively associated with medullar hyaline casts (p=0.03) and a similar trend was found for cell infiltrations (p=0.08). There was a trend of trans-nonachlor being positively associated with glomerular sclerosis (p=0.06) while dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethanes were negatively associated with tubular hyperplasia (p=0.02). These results suggest that specific liver and renal lesions have decreased or increased over time and that long-range transported organohalogen contaminants and mercury may be among the co-factors responsible for these observations. These relationships are important to take into account when biomonitoring health and pollution in wildlife species such as polar bears.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Sonne
- Aarhus University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Bioscience, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Vongraven D, Aars J, Amstrup S, Atkinson SN, Belikov S, Born EW, DeBruyn TD, Derocher AE, Durner G, Gill M, Lunn N, Obbard ME, Omelak J, Ovsyanikov N, Peacock E, Richardson E, Sahanatien V, Stirling I, Wiig Ø. A circumpolar monitoring framework for polar bears. URSUS 2012. [DOI: 10.2192/ursus-d-11-00026.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
21
|
Sonne C, Letcher RJ, Bechshøft TØ, Rigét FF, Muir DCG, Leifsson PS, Born EW, Hyldstrup L, Basu N, Kirkegaard M, Dietz R. Two decades of biomonitoring polar bear health in Greenland: a review. Acta Vet Scand 2012. [PMCID: PMC3305763 DOI: 10.1186/1751-0147-54-s1-s15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Summary We present an overview of studies of anthropogenic pollutants in East Greenland polar bears over the period of 1999-2011. East Greenland polar bears are among the most polluted species, not just in the Arctic but globally, and represent an excellent biomonitoring species for levels and effects of global pollution in an apex predator. Therefore, an international multidisciplinary team joined to monitor and assess the patterns and concentrations of contaminants and their potential negative impact on polar bears. The review showed that East Greenland polar bears are exposed to a mix of chlorinated, brominated and fluorinated organic compounds as well as mercury which are all known to have endocrine, immune and organ-system toxic properties. For example, the concentrations of PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) in blubber ranged approximately 800-21,000 ng/g lw while mercury concentrations in liver and kidney ranged 0.1-50 μg/g ww. Regarding health endpoints, bone density seemed to decrease as a function of time and OHC (organohalogen compound) concentrations and further T-score for adult males indicated risk for osteoporosis. .The size of sexual organs decreased with increasing OHC concentrations. In the lower brain stem, mercury-associated decreases in NMDA-receptor levels and DNA-methylation was found The present review indicated that age was one of the major drivers for liver and renal lesions, although contaminants and infectious diseases may also play a role. Lesions in thyroid glands were most likely a result of infectious and genetic factors and probably, together with endocrine disrupting chemical (EDCs), the reason for disturbances/fluctuations in blood plasma thyroid hormone concentrations. Except for bone density reductions and neurological measures, all findings were supported by case-control studies of Greenland sledge dogs exposed long-term orally to similar combinations of contaminant concentrations. The studies of sledge dogs also indicated that the mixture of contaminants and fatty acids in the blubber of prey similar to that of polar bears induces cellular as well as humoral immune toxic changes. These controlled studies using model species for polar bears indicate that the correlative findings between health endpoint and contaminants in polar bears could be a cause-and-effect relationship. Physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modelling showed that the risk quotients were ≥1 for ΣPCB, dieldrin and PFOS, which indicate an increased risk of prenatally reproductive pathology. In conclusion polar bears are susceptible to long-range transported chemicals that may have various adverse effects on multiple organ systems such as the reproductive and immune system.
Collapse
|
22
|
Villanger GD, Jenssen BM, Fjeldberg RR, Letcher RJ, Muir DCG, Kirkegaard M, Sonne C, Dietz R. Exposure to mixtures of organohalogen contaminants and associative interactions with thyroid hormones in East Greenland polar bears (Ursus maritimus). ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2011; 37:694-708. [PMID: 21345491 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2011.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2010] [Revised: 12/02/2010] [Accepted: 01/20/2011] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the multivariate relationships between adipose tissue residue levels of 48 individual organohalogen contaminants (OHCs) and circulating thyroid hormone (TH) levels in polar bears (Ursus maritimus) from East Greenland (1999-2001, n=62), using projection to latent structure (PLS) regression for four groupings of polar bears; subadults (SubA), adult females with cubs (AdF_N), adult females without cubs (AdF_S) and adult males (AdM). In the resulting significant PLS models for SubA, AdF_N and AdF_S, some OHCs were especially important in explaining variations in circulating TH levels: polybrominated diphenylether (PBDE)-99, PBDE-100, PBDE-153, polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)-52, PCB-118, cis-nonachlor, trans-nonachlor, trichlorobenzene (TCB) and pentachlorobenzene (QCB), and both negative and positive relationships with THs were found. In addition, the models revealed that DDTs had a positive influence on total 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine (TT3) in AdF_S, and that a group of 17 higher chlorinated ortho-PCBs had a positive influence on total 3,5,3',5'-tetraiodothyronine (thyroxine, TT4) in AdF_N. TH levels in AdM seemed less influenced by OHCs because of non-significant PLS models. TH levels were also influenced by biological factors such as age, sex, body size, lipid content of adipose tissue and sampling date. When controlling for biological variables, the major relationships from the PLS models for SubA, AdF_N and AdF_S were found significant in partial correlations. The most important OHCs that influenced TH levels in the significant PLS models may potentially act through similar mechanisms on the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis, suggesting that both combined effects by dose and response addition and perhaps synergistic potentiation may be a possibility in these polar bears. Statistical associations are not evidence per se of biological cause-effect relationships. Still, the results of the present study indicate that OHCs may affect circulating TH levels in East Greenland polar bears, adding to the "weight of evidence" suggesting that OHCs might interfere with thyroid homeostasis in polar bears.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gro D Villanger
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Letcher RJ, Bustnes JO, Dietz R, Jenssen BM, Jørgensen EH, Sonne C, Verreault J, Vijayan MM, Gabrielsen GW. Exposure and effects assessment of persistent organohalogen contaminants in arctic wildlife and fish. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2010; 408:2995-3043. [PMID: 19910021 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2009.10.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 477] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2009] [Revised: 10/08/2009] [Accepted: 10/14/2009] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) encompass an array of anthropogenic organic and elemental substances and their degradation and metabolic byproducts that have been found in the tissues of exposed animals, especially POPs categorized as organohalogen contaminants (OHCs). OHCs have been of concern in the circumpolar arctic for decades. For example, as a consequence of bioaccumulation and in some cases biomagnification of legacy (e.g., chlorinated PCBs, DDTs and CHLs) and emerging (e.g., brominated flame retardants (BFRs) and in particular polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) including perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanic acid (PFOA) found in Arctic biota and humans. Of high concern are the potential biological effects of these contaminants in exposed Arctic wildlife and fish. As concluded in the last review in 2004 for the Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Program (AMAP) on the effects of POPs in Arctic wildlife, prior to 1997, biological effects data were minimal and insufficient at any level of biological organization. The present review summarizes recent studies on biological effects in relation to OHC exposure, and attempts to assess known tissue/body compartment concentration data in the context of possible threshold levels of effects to evaluate the risks. This review concentrates mainly on post-2002, new OHC effects data in Arctic wildlife and fish, and is largely based on recently available effects data for populations of several top trophic level species, including seabirds (e.g., glaucous gull (Larus hyperboreus)), polar bears (Ursus maritimus), polar (Arctic) fox (Vulpes lagopus), and Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus), as well as semi-captive studies on sled dogs (Canis familiaris). Regardless, there remains a dearth of data on true contaminant exposure, cause-effect relationships with respect to these contaminant exposures in Arctic wildlife and fish. Indications of exposure effects are largely based on correlations between biomarker endpoints (e.g., biochemical processes related to the immune and endocrine system, pathological changes in tissues and reproduction and development) and tissue residue levels of OHCs (e.g., PCBs, DDTs, CHLs, PBDEs and in a few cases perfluorinated carboxylic acids (PFCAs) and perfluorinated sulfonates (PFSAs)). Some exceptions include semi-field studies on comparative contaminant effects of control and exposed cohorts of captive Greenland sled dogs, and performance studies mimicking environmentally relevant PCB concentrations in Arctic charr. Recent tissue concentrations in several arctic marine mammal species and populations exceed a general threshold level of concern of 1 part-per-million (ppm), but a clear evidence of a POP/OHC-related stress in these populations remains to be confirmed. There remains minimal evidence that OHCs are having widespread effects on the health of Arctic organisms, with the possible exception of East Greenland and Svalbard polar bears and Svalbard glaucous gulls. However, the true (if any real) effects of POPs in Arctic wildlife have to be put into the context of other environmental, ecological and physiological stressors (both anthropogenic and natural) that render an overall complex picture. For instance, seasonal changes in food intake and corresponding cycles of fattening and emaciation seen in Arctic animals can modify contaminant tissue distribution and toxicokinetics (contaminant deposition, metabolism and depuration). Also, other factors, including impact of climate change (seasonal ice and temperature changes, and connection to food web changes, nutrition, etc. in exposed biota), disease, species invasion and the connection to disease resistance will impact toxicant exposure. Overall, further research and better understanding of POP/OHC impact on animal performance in Arctic biota are recommended. Regardless, it could be argued that Arctic wildlife and fish at the highest potential risk of POP/OHC exposure and mediated effects are East Greenland, Svalbard and (West and South) Hudson Bay polar bears, Alaskan and Northern Norway killer whales, several species of gulls and other seabirds from the Svalbard area, Northern Norway, East Greenland, the Kara Sea and/or the Canadian central high Arctic, East Greenland ringed seal and a few populations of Arctic charr and Greenland shark.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Letcher
- Wildlife and Landscape Science Directorate, Science and Technology, Branch, Environment Canada, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Sonne C. Health effects from long-range transported contaminants in Arctic top predators: An integrated review based on studies of polar bears and relevant model species. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2010; 36:461-491. [PMID: 20398940 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2010.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2010] [Revised: 03/06/2010] [Accepted: 03/10/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this review is to provide a thorough overview of the health effects from the complexed biomagnified mixture of long-range transported industrial organochlorines (OCs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) and mercury (Hg) on polar bear (Ursus maritimus) health. Multiple scientific studies of polar bears indicate negative relationships between exposure to these contaminants and health parameters; however, these are all of a correlative nature and do not represent true cause-and-effects. Therefore, information from controlled studies of farmed Norwegian Arctic foxes (Vulpes lagopus) and housed East and West Greenland sledge dogs (Canis familiaris) were included as supportive weight of evidence in the clarification of contaminant exposure and health effects in polar bears. The review showed that hormone and vitamin concentrations, liver, kidney and thyroid gland morphology as well as reproductive and immune systems of polar bears are likely to be influenced by contaminant exposure. Furthermore, exclusively based on polar bear contaminant studies, bone density reduction and neurochemical disruption and DNA hypomethylation of the brain stem seemed to occur. The range of tissue concentration, at which these alterations were observed in polar bears, were ca. 1-70,000 ng/g lw for OCs (blood plasma concentrations of some PCB metabolites even higher), ca. 1-1000 ng/g lw for PBDEs and for PFCs and Hg 114-3052 ng/g ww and 0.1-50 microg/g ww, respectively. Similar concentrations were found in farmed foxes and housed sledge dogs while the lack of dose response designs did not allow an estimation of threshold levels for oral exposure and accumulated tissue concentrations. Nor was it possible to pinpoint a specific group of contaminants being more important than others nor analyze their interactions. For East Greenland polar bears the corresponding daily SigmaOC and SigmaPBDE oral exposure was estimated to be 35 and 0.34 microg/kg body weight, respectively. Furthermore, PFC concentrations, at which population effect levels could occur, are likely to be reached around year 2012 for the East Greenland polar bear subpopulation if current increasing temporal trends continue. Such proposed reproductive population effects were supported by physiological based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modelling of critical body residues (CBR) with risk quotients >or=1 for SigmaPCB, dieldrin, SigmaPFC and SigmaOHC (organohalogen contaminant). The estimated daily TEQ for East Greenland polar bears and East Greenland sledge dogs were 32-281-folds above WHO SigmaTEQ guidelines for humans. Compared to human tolerable daily intake (TDI), these were exceeded for PCBs, dieldrin, chlordanes and SigmaHCH in East Greenland polar bears. Comparisons like these should be done with caution, but together with the CBR modelling and T-score estimations, these were the only available tools for polar bear risk evaluation. In conclusion, polar bears seem to be susceptible to contaminant induced stress that may have an overall sub-clinical impact on their health and population status via impacts on their immune and reproductive systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Sonne
- Section for Contaminants, Effects and Marine Mammals, Department of Arctic Environment, National Environmental Research Institute, University of Aarhus, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Gutleb AC, Cenijn P, Velzen MV, Lie E, Ropstad E, Skaare JU, Malmberg T, Bergman A, Gabrielsen GW, Legler J. In vitro assay shows that PCB metabolites completely saturate thyroid hormone transport capacity in blood of wild polar bears (Ursus maritimus). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2010; 44:3149-54. [PMID: 20345174 DOI: 10.1021/es903029j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Persistent chemicals accumulate in the arctic environment due to their chemical reactivity and physicochemical properties and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are the most concentrated pollutant class in polar bears (Ursus maritimus). Metabolism of PCB and polybrominated biphenyl ether (PBDE) flame-retardants alter their toxicological properties and these metabolites are known to interfere with the binding of thyroid hormone (TH) to transthyretin (TTR) in rodents and humans. In polar bear plasma samples no binding of [125I]-T(4) to TTR was observed after incubation and PAGE separation. Incubation of the plasma samples with [14C]-4-OH-CB107, a compound with a higher binding affinity to TTR than the endogenous ligand T(4) resulted in competitive binding as proven by the appearance of a radio labeled TTR peak in the gel. Plasma incubation with T(4) up to 1 mM, a concentration that is not physiologically relevant anymore did not result in any visible competition. These results give evidence that the binding sites on TTR for T(4) in wild living polar bears are completely saturated. Such saturation of binding sites can explain observed lowered levels of THs and could lead to contaminant transport into the developing fetus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arno C Gutleb
- Department Environment and Agro-biotechnologies, Centre de Recherche Public-Gabriel Lippmann, 41 Rue du Brill, L-4422 Belvaux, Grand-duchy of Luxembourg.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Sonne C, Gustavson K, Rigét FF, Dietz R, Birkved M, Letcher RJ, Bossi R, Vorkamp K, Born EW, Petersen G. Reproductive performance in East Greenland polar bears (Ursus maritimus) may be affected by organohalogen contaminants as shown by physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modelling. CHEMOSPHERE 2009; 77:1558-1568. [PMID: 19863991 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2009.09.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2009] [Revised: 09/01/2009] [Accepted: 09/21/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Polar bears (Ursus maritimus) feed mainly on ringed seal (Phoca hispida) and consume large quantities of blubber and consequently have one of the highest tissue concentrations of organohalogen contaminants (OHCs) worldwide. In East Greenland, studies of OHC time trends and organ system health effects, including reproductive, were conducted during 1990-2006. However, it has been difficult to determine the nature of the effects induced by OHC exposures on wild caught polar bears using body burden data and associated changes in reproductive organs and systems. We therefore conducted a risk quotient (RQ) evaluation to more quantitatively evaluate the effect risk on reproduction (embryotoxicity and teratogenicity) based on the critical body residue (CBR) concept and using a physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model. We applied modelling approaches to PCBs, p,p'-DDE, dieldrin, oxychlordane, HCHs, HCB, PBDEs and PFOS in East Greenland polar bears based on known OHC pharmacokinetics and dynamics in laboratory rats (Rattus rattus). The results showed that subcutaneous adipose tissue concentrations of dieldrin (range: 79-1271 ng g(-1) lw) and PCBs (range: 4128-53,923 ng g(-1) lw) reported in bears in the year 1990 were in the range to elicit possible adverse health effects on reproduction in polar bears in East Greenland (all RQs > or = 1). Similar results were found for PCBs (range: 1928-17,376 ng g(-1) lw) and PFOS (range: 104-2840 ng g(-1) ww) in the year 2000 and for dieldrin (range: 43-640 ng g(-1) lw), PCBs (range: 3491-13,243 ng g(-1) lw) and PFOS (range: 1332-6160 ng g(-1) ww) in the year 2006. The concentrations of oxychlordane, DDTs, HCB and HCHs in polar bears resulted in RQs<1 and thus appear less likely to be linked to reproductive effects. Furthermore, sumRQs above 1 suggested risk for OHC additive effects. Thus, previous suggestions of possible adverse health effects in polar bears correlated to OHC exposure are supported by the present study. This study also indicates that PBPK models may be a supportive tool in the evaluation of possible OHC-mediated health effects for Arctic wildlife.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Sonne
- Section for Contaminants, Effects and Marine Mammals, Department of Arctic Environment, National Environmental Research Institute, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Pertoldi C, Sonne C, Dietz R, Schmidt NM, Loeschcke V. Craniometric characteristics of polar bear skulls from two periods with contrasting levels of industrial pollution and sea ice extent. J Zool (1987) 2009. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7998.2009.00625.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
|
28
|
Huang R, Southall N, Xia M, Cho MH, Jadhav A, Nguyen DT, Inglese J, Tice RR, Austin CP. Weighted feature significance: a simple, interpretable model of compound toxicity based on the statistical enrichment of structural features. Toxicol Sci 2009; 112:385-93. [PMID: 19805409 PMCID: PMC2777082 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfp231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2009] [Accepted: 09/15/2009] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In support of the U.S. Tox21 program, we have developed a simple and chemically intuitive model we call weighted feature significance (WFS) to predict the toxicological activity of compounds, based on the statistical enrichment of structural features in toxic compounds. We trained and tested the model on the following: (1) data from quantitative high-throughput screening cytotoxicity and caspase activation assays conducted at the National Institutes of Health Chemical Genomics Center, (2) data from Salmonella typhimurium reverse mutagenicity assays conducted by the U.S. National Toxicology Program, and (3) hepatotoxicity data published in the Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances. Enrichments of structural features in toxic compounds are evaluated for their statistical significance and compiled into a simple additive model of toxicity and then used to score new compounds for potential toxicity. The predictive power of the model for cytotoxicity was validated using an independent set of compounds from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency tested also at the National Institutes of Health Chemical Genomics Center. We compared the performance of our WFS approach with classical classification methods such as Naive Bayesian clustering and support vector machines. In most test cases, WFS showed similar or slightly better predictive power, especially in the prediction of hepatotoxic compounds, where WFS appeared to have the best performance among the three methods. The new algorithm has the important advantages of simplicity, power, interpretability, and ease of implementation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruili Huang
- Department of Health and Human Services, NIH Chemical Genomics Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-3370, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Verreault J, Letcher RJ, Sonne C, Dietz R. In vitro metabolism of polychlorinated biphenyls and cytochrome P450 monooxygenase activities in dietary-exposed Greenland sledge dogs. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2009; 150:91-100. [PMID: 19303460 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2009.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2008] [Revised: 03/13/2009] [Accepted: 03/14/2009] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The in vitro metabolism of a polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) mixture was examined using hepatic microsomes of dietary-exposed Greenland sledge dogs (Canis familiaris) to an organohalogen-rich diet (Greenland minke whale blubber: EXP cohort) or a control diet (pork fat: CON cohort). The associations between in vitro PCB metabolism, activity of oxidative hepatic microsomal cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoenzymes and concentrations of PCBs and hydroxylated metabolites were investigated. The CON dogs exhibited a 2.3-fold higher depletion percentage for the PCB congeners having at least two pairs of vicinal meta-para Cl-unsubstituted carbons (PCB-18 and -33) relative to the EXP dogs. This depletion discrepancy suggests that there exist substrates in liver of the organohalogen-contaminated EXP dogs that can competitively bind and/or interfere with the active sites of CYP isoenzymes, leading to a lower metabolic efficiency for these PCBs. Testosterone (T) hydroxylase activity, determined via the formation of 6beta-OH-T, 16alpha-OH-T, 16beta-OH-T and androstenedione, was strongly correlated with the depletion percentages of PCB-18 and -33 in both cohorts. Based on documented hepatic microsomal CYP isoenzyme substrate specificities in canines, present associations suggest that primarily CYP2B/2C and CYP3A were inducible in sledge dogs and responsible for the in vitro metabolism of PCB-18 and -33.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Verreault
- Wildlife and Landscape Science Directorate, Science and Technology Branch, Environment Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Bechshøft TØ, Rigét FF, Sonne C, Wiig Ø, Dietz R, Letcher RJ. Skull Foramina Asymmetry in East Greenland and Svalbard Polar Bears (Ursus maritimus) in Relation to Stressful Environments. ANN ZOOL FENN 2009. [DOI: 10.5735/086.046.0303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
31
|
Bentzen TW, Muir DCG, Amstrup SC, O'Hara TM. Organohalogen concentrations in blood and adipose tissue of Southern Beaufort Sea polar bears. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2008; 406:352-367. [PMID: 18775556 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2008.07.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2008] [Revised: 07/16/2008] [Accepted: 07/18/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
We analyzed 151 organohalogen chemicals (OHCs) in whole blood and subcutaneous fat of 57 polar bears sampled along the Alaskan Beaufort Sea coast in spring, 2003. All major organochlorine pesticides, PCBs, PBDEs and their congeners were assessed. Concentrations of most OHCs continue to be lower among Southern Beaufort Sea polar bears than reported for other populations. Additionally, toxaphenes and related compounds were assessed in adipose tissue, and 8 perflourinated compounds (PFCs) were examined in blood. Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) concentrations exceeded those of any other contaminant measured in blood. SigmaChlordane concentrations were higher in females, and both SigmaPCBs and SigmaChlordane concentrations in adipose tissue decreased significantly with age. The rank order of OHC mean concentrations; SigmaPCB>Sigma10PCB>PCB153>SigmaChlordane>Oxychlordane>PCB180>SigmaHCH>beta-HCH>SigmaDDT>p,p-DDE>SigmaPBDE>HCB>Toxaphene was similar for compounds above detection limits in both fat and blood. Although correlation between OHC concentrations in blood and adipose tissue was examined, the predictability of concentrations in one matrix for the other was limited.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T W Bentzen
- Department of Biology and Wildlife, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, Alaska 99775, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Li X, Yeung LWY, Taniyasu S, Li M, Zhang H, Liu D, Lam PKS, Yamashita N, Dai J. Perfluorooctanesulfonate and related fluorochemicals in the Amur tiger (Panthera tigris altaica) from China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2008; 42:7078-7083. [PMID: 18939529 DOI: 10.1021/es801453d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) are used in a variety of industrial applications. We tested the hypothesis that, in Amur tigers (Panthera tigris altaica), captivity in industrialized areas increases PFC levels, potentially presenting a health risk to these animals. Serum samples were collected from 100 tigers from industrialized or nonindustrialized regions in China with nonpoint sources of PFCs. Mean concentrations of PFCs in these samples ranged from 1.57 +/- 0.83 ng/mL in nonindustrial Hailin to 4.31 +/- 2.90 ng/mL in industrial Beijing. PFC concentrations were significantly higher in tigers from the industrial city of Harbin than those from Hailin (p < 0.05). Perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) was the most abundant PFC in all tigers and increased with age, regardless of industrial/ nonindustrial background (p < 0.01). However, PFOS concentrations were 2-4 orders of magnitude less than the current no-observed-effect level. In addition, overall PFC levels in Amur tigers were low compared with various species living in other countries, consistent with the relatively short history of PFC use in China. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that captivity in industrialized areas increases PFC levels in Amurtigers. They also suggestthat PFC accumulation will persist, and even increase, with continued use of PFCs in China.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuemei Li
- Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Raldúa D, Padrós F, Solé M, Eljarrat E, Barceló D, Riva MC, Barata C. First evidence of polybrominated diphenyl ether (flame retardants) effects in feral barbel from the Ebro River basin (NE, Spain). CHEMOSPHERE 2008; 73:56-64. [PMID: 18597816 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2008.05.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2008] [Revised: 05/15/2008] [Accepted: 05/16/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are chemicals of environmental concern due to their lipophilic, persistent and bioaccumulable characteristics as well as for their potential endocrine disrupting role. Former studies carried out in a tributary of the Cinca river (Ebro basin, NE Spain) revealed high levels of PBDEs in fish due to the discharges of effluents rich in PBDEs coming from a nearby industrial park in Barbastro. In this study, several biomarkers of pollutants exposure were measured in barbel, Barbus graellsii, before (upstream) and after (downstream) the main industrial site (Barbastro) in the Vero river. The results evidenced an enhanced hepatic phase I and II metabolism (measured as reductases, glutathione S transferase and uridinediphospho-glucuronosyltransferase), and of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase. Conversely, fishes collected from downstream reaches had their phase I CYP1A dependent ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase, antioxidant diaphorase and brain cholinesterase activities depleted. In addition, the histological study of the liver and kidney of these fish evidenced an increase of the number and size of macrophage aggregates in most individuals collected downstream. Bivariate correlated analyses showed that the above mentioned biomarkers were correlated to measured PBDE congeners, thus indicating that the observed biological effects were unlikely to be related to other environmental factors than PBDEs. Overall, the measured biochemical and histological markers provide new evidence that in field exposed fish, PBDEs levels were associated with high activities of phase I and II metabolic enzymes, oxidative stress in liver, neurotoxicity in brain and histopathological effects in both liver and kidney.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Demetrio Raldúa
- Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology (UPC), CN 150, Km 14.5, 08220 Terrassa, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Sonne C, Rigét FF, Beck Jensen JE, Hyldstrup L, Teilmann J, Dietz R, Kirkegaard M, Andersen S, Letcher RJ, Jakobsen J. Does the nutrition profile of vitamins, fatty acids and microelements counteract the negative impact from organohalogen pollutants on bone mineral density in Greenland sledge dogs (Canis familiaris)? ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2008; 34:811-820. [PMID: 18342937 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2008.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2007] [Revised: 01/22/2008] [Accepted: 01/30/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
There is a great need for understanding the impact from dietary OHCs (organohalogen compounds) on bone mineral composition - and thereby osteoporosis - in especially arctic wildlife such as polar bears (Ursus maritimus) as well as humans. For that purpose, we measured BMD (bone mineral density) by DXA scanning (g/cm(-2)) in 15 age and weight normalized sledge dog (Canis familiaris) bitches and their 26 pups divided into a control group (n=26) given 50-200 g/day clean pork (Suis scrofa) fat and a treated group (n=15) given 50-200 g/day OHC polluted minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) blubber as main lipid sources. The results showed that BMD increased significantly with age (linear regression: p<0.0001, r(2)=0.83, n=41) while no sex difference was found in the F-generation (two-way ANOVA: all p>0.3). No differences in BMD(femur) or BMD(vertebrae) between exposed and control individuals in the bitch generation were found (linear mixed effect model: both p>0.38). Likewise, no difference between exposed and control subadults and juveniles in the F-generation was found (two-way ANOVA: all p>0.33). Correlation analyses between BMD(femur), BMD(vertebrae) and groups of OHCs, respectively, did not show any statistically significant relationships nor a clear or decreasing trend (Pearson's: p: 0.07-0.78; r: -0.2-0.59; n: 10-18). As the groups were similar regarding genetics, age and sex are the only factors that can explain this observation. Either the pollutants did not have an impact on BMD using the present time frame and OHC concentrations (threshold levels not reached), or the difference in food composition (mainly vitamins and n3 fatty acids) conceal the potential OHC impact on BMD. Such information is important when evaluating the positive and negative health consequences from eating polluted marine species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Sonne
- Section for Contaminants, Effects and Marine Mammals, Department of Arctic Environment, National Environmental Research Institute, University of Aarhus, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Rosa C, Blake JE, Bratton GR, Dehn LA, Gray MJ, O'Hara TM. Heavy metal and mineral concentrations and their relationship to histopathological findings in the bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2008; 399:165-178. [PMID: 18466957 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2008.01.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2007] [Revised: 01/22/2008] [Accepted: 01/22/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus) is a species endangered over much of its range that is of great cultural significance and subsistence value to the Inuit of Northern Alaska. This species occupies subarctic and arctic regions presently undergoing significant ecological change and hydrocarbon development. Thus, understanding the health status of the Bering-Chukchi-Beaufort Sea (BCBS) stock of bowhead whales is of importance. In this study, we evaluated the concentrations of six essential and non-essential elements (Zn, tHg, Ag, Se, Cu and Cd) in liver and kidney of bowhead whales (n=64). These tissues were collected from the Inuit subsistence hunt in Barrow, Wainwright and Kaktovik, Alaska between 1983 and 2001. Reference ranges of these elements (including previously reported data from 1983-1997) were developed for this species as part of a health assessment effort, and interpreted using improved aging techniques (aspartic acid racemization and baleen isotopic (13)C methods) to evaluate trends over time with increased statistical power. Interactions between element concentrations and age, sex and harvest season were assessed. Age was found to be of highest significance. Sex and harvest season did not effect the concentrations of these elements, with the exception of renal Se levels, which were significantly higher in fall seasons. In addition, histological evaluation of tissues from whales collected between 1998-2001 was performed. Associations between concentrations of Cd in kidney and liver and scored histopathological changes were evaluated. Liver Cd concentration was strongly associated with the degree of lung fibromuscular hyperplasia (P=0.001) and moderately associated with the degree of renal fibrosis (P=0.03). Renal Cd concentration influenced the degree of lung fibromuscular hyperplasia and renal fibrosis (P=0.01). A significant age effect was found for both pulmonary fibromuscular hyperplasia and renal fibrosis, indicating age may be a causative factor. Improvements in aging techniques and the addition of histological indices help clarify the relationships between elements and the influence of life history parameters on concentrations of these elements and potential impacts on health. These data provide essential baseline input useful for monitoring the effects of arctic ecosystem change as it relates to global climate change and industrial development, as well as help inform epidemiological studies examining the public health implications of heavy metals in subsistence foods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl Rosa
- Institute of Arctic Biology, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 311 Irving I Building, Fairbanks, Alaska 99775, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Hu GC, Luo XJ, Dai JY, Zhang XL, Wu H, Zhang CL, Guo W, Xu MQ, Mai BX, Weit FW. Brominated flame retardants, polychlorinated biphenyls, and organochlorine pesticides in captive giant panda (ailuropoda melanoleuca) and red panda (Ailurus fulgens) from China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2008; 42:4704-4709. [PMID: 18677994 DOI: 10.1021/es800017g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and brominated flame retardants (BFRs) were investigated in captive giant and red panda tissues from China. The total concentrations of OCPs, PCBs, and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in tissues ranged from 16.3 to 888 ng/g lipid weight (lw), 24.8 to 854 ng/g lw, and 16.4 to 2158 ng/g lw, respectively. p,p'-DDE and beta-HCH were major OCP contaminants. PCBs 99, 118, 153/132, 170, 180, and 209 were the major contributing congeners determined. Among PBDEs, congener BDE-209 was the most frequent and abundant, followed by BDE-206, BDE-208, BDE-207, BDE-203, BDE-47, and BDE-153. Decabromodiphenyl ethane (DeBDethane) was detected in 87 and 71% of the giant and red panda samples with concentrations up to 863 ng/g lw, respectively. The remarkable levels and dominance of BDE-209 and DeBDethane may relate to significant production, usage, or disposal of BFRs in China. The positive significant correlation between concentrations of PBDEs and PCBs in captive pandas may suggest that the exposure routes of PBDEs and PCBs to panda are similar. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the occurrence of DeBDethane in captive wildlife samples. Therefore, further studies are warranted to better understand DeBDethane production, transport, uptake, and toxicological effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Cheng Hu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Verreault J, Dietz R, Sonne C, Gebbink WA, Shahmiri S, Letcher RJ. Comparative fate of organohalogen contaminants in two top carnivores in Greenland: captive sledge dogs and wild polar bears. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2008; 147:306-15. [PMID: 18248775 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2007.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2007] [Revised: 11/27/2007] [Accepted: 11/27/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The limited knowledge and/or the inability to control physiological condition parameters that influence the fate of organohalogen contaminants (OHCs) has been the foremost confounding aspect in monitoring programs and health risk assessments of wild top predators in the Arctic such as the polar bear (Ursus maritimus). In the present comparative study, we used a potential surrogate Canoidea species for the East Greenland polar bear, the captive sledge dog (Canis familiaris), to investigate some factors that may influence the bioaccumulation and biotransformation of major chlorinated and brominated OHCs in adipose tissue and blood (plasma) of control (fed commercial pork fat) and exposed (fed West Greenland minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) blubber) adult female sledge dogs. Furthermore, we compared the patterns and concentrations of OHCs and their known or suggested hydroxylated (OH) metabolites (e.g., OH-PCBs) in sledge dogs with those in adipose tissue and blood (plasma) of East Greenland adult female polar bears, and blubber of their main prey species, the ringed seal (Pusa hispida). The two-year feeding regime conducted with sledge dogs led to marked differences in overall adipose tissue (and plasma) OHC residue accumulation between the control and exposed groups. Characteristic prey-to-predator OHC bioaccumulation dynamics for major PCB and PBDE congeners (patterns and concentrations) and biotransformation capacity with respect to PCB metabolite formation and OH-PCB retention distinguished, to some extent, captive sledge dogs and wild polar bears. Based on the present findings, we conclude that the use of surrogate species in toxicological investigations for species in the Canoidea family should be done with great caution, although they remain essential in the context of contaminants research with sensitive arctic top carnivore species such as the polar bear.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Verreault
- National Wildlife Research Centre, Science and Technology Branch, Environment Canada, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1S 5B6
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Dietz R, Bossi R, Rigét FF, Sonne C, Born EW. Increasing perfluoroalkyl contaminants in east greenland polar bears (Ursus maritimus): a new toxic threat to the Arctic bears. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2008; 42:2701-7. [PMID: 18505019 DOI: 10.1021/es7025938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
A well-defined subsample of 128 subadult (3-5 years) polar bears (Ursus maritimus) from 19 sampling years within the period 1984-2006 was investigated for perfluoroalkyl contaminants (PFCs). Linear regression analysis of logarithmic-transformed median concentrations showed significant annual increases for PFOS (4.7%), PFNA (6.1%), PFUnA (5.9%), PFDA (4.3%), PFTrA (8.5%), PFOA (2.3%), and PFDoA (5.2%). For four of the PFCs, a LOESS smoother model provided significantly better descriptions, revealing steeper linear annual increases for PFOSA of 9.2% after 1990 and between 18.6 and 27.4% for PFOS, PFDA, and PFTrA after 2000. Concentrations of SigmaPFCs, by 2006, exceeded the concentrations of all conventional OHCs (organohalogen compounds), of which several have been documented to correlate with a number of negative health effects. If the PFC concentrations in polar bears continue to increase with the steepest observed trends, then the lowest no-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) and lowest-adverse-effect level (LOAEL) detected for rats and monkeys will be exceeded in 2014-2024. In addition, the rapidly increasing concentrations of PFCs are likely to cause cumulative and combined effects on the polar bear, compounding the already detected threats from OHCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Dietz
- Department of Arctic Environment, National Environmental Research Institute, University of Aarhus, Frederiksborgvej 399, P. O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Bechshøft TØ, Sonne C, Rigét FF, Wiig Ø, Dietz R. Differences in growth, size and sexual dimorphism in skulls of East Greenland and Svalbard polar bears (Ursus maritimus). Polar Biol 2008. [DOI: 10.1007/s00300-008-0435-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
40
|
Bentzen TW, Follmann EH, Amstrup SC, York GS, Wooller MJ, Muir DC, O’Hara TM. Dietary biomagnification of organochlorine contaminants in Alaskan polar bears. CAN J ZOOL 2008. [DOI: 10.1139/z07-124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Concentrations of organochlorine contaminants in the adipose tissue of polar bears ( Ursus maritimus Phipps, 1774) vary throughout the Arctic. The range in concentrations has not been explained fully by bear age, sex, condition, location, or reproductive status. Dietary pathways expose polar bears to a variety of contaminant profiles and concentrations. Prey range from lower trophic level bowhead whales ( Balaena mysticetus L., 1758), one of the least contaminated marine mammals, to highly contaminated upper trophic level ringed seals ( Phoca hispida (Schreber, 1775)). We used δ15N and δ13C signatures to estimate the trophic status of 42 polar bears sampled along Alaska’s Beaufort Sea coast to determine the relationship between organochlorine concentration and trophic level. The δ15N values in the cellular portions of blood ranged from 18.2‰ to 20.7‰. We found strong positive relationships between concentrations of the most recalcitrant polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and δ15N values in models incorporating age, lipid content, and δ13C value. Specifically these models accounted for 67% and 76% of the variation in PCB153 and oxychlordane concentration in male polar bears and 85% and 93% in females, respectively. These results are strong indicators of variation in diet and biomagnification of organochlorines among polar bears related to their sex, age, and trophic position.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T. W. Bentzen
- Department of Biology and Wildlife, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- Institute of Arctic Biology, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center, Anchorage, AK 99503, USA
- Institute of Marine Sciences, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- Environment Canada, National Laboratory of Environmental Testing, Burlington, ON L7R 4A6, Canada
| | - E. H. Follmann
- Department of Biology and Wildlife, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- Institute of Arctic Biology, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center, Anchorage, AK 99503, USA
- Institute of Marine Sciences, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- Environment Canada, National Laboratory of Environmental Testing, Burlington, ON L7R 4A6, Canada
| | - S. C. Amstrup
- Department of Biology and Wildlife, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- Institute of Arctic Biology, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center, Anchorage, AK 99503, USA
- Institute of Marine Sciences, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- Environment Canada, National Laboratory of Environmental Testing, Burlington, ON L7R 4A6, Canada
| | - G. S. York
- Department of Biology and Wildlife, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- Institute of Arctic Biology, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center, Anchorage, AK 99503, USA
- Institute of Marine Sciences, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- Environment Canada, National Laboratory of Environmental Testing, Burlington, ON L7R 4A6, Canada
| | - M. J. Wooller
- Department of Biology and Wildlife, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- Institute of Arctic Biology, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center, Anchorage, AK 99503, USA
- Institute of Marine Sciences, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- Environment Canada, National Laboratory of Environmental Testing, Burlington, ON L7R 4A6, Canada
| | - D. C.G. Muir
- Department of Biology and Wildlife, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- Institute of Arctic Biology, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center, Anchorage, AK 99503, USA
- Institute of Marine Sciences, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- Environment Canada, National Laboratory of Environmental Testing, Burlington, ON L7R 4A6, Canada
| | - T. M. O’Hara
- Department of Biology and Wildlife, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- Institute of Arctic Biology, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center, Anchorage, AK 99503, USA
- Institute of Marine Sciences, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
- Environment Canada, National Laboratory of Environmental Testing, Burlington, ON L7R 4A6, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Sonne C, Dietz R, Born EW, Leifsson PS, Andersen S. Is there a link between hypospadias and organochlorine exposure in East Greenland sledge dogs (Canis familiaris)? ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2008; 69:391-395. [PMID: 18061260 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2007.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2007] [Revised: 09/03/2007] [Accepted: 09/21/2007] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
In a clinical survey on East Greenland male sledge dogs (Canis familiaris), one dog exhibited malformation of the external genital organs. The clinically in situ examination of the sledge dog revealed a rare congenital malformation of the urethra and penis corresponding to severe perineal and penile hypospadias. The testes showed spermiogenesis and no sign of true hermaphroditism. We did not have the opportunity to examine the dam for endocrine organ pathology or tumours. But, based on organochlorine data in ringed seal (Phoca hispida) blubber and information from the owners, the potential in uteri OC exposure of the sledge dog was estimated to 320 microg/day which correspond to 128 pg TEQ/kg/day. This is 32-128-folds above WHO guidelines and threshold levels for teratogen and reproductive effects. We suggest that the congenital malformation was due to endocrine organ pathology/tumours of the dam, enzyme/receptor defects (mutation) in the pup or in uteri exposure to environmental xenoestrogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Sonne
- Department of Arctic Environment, Section for Contaminants, Effects and Marine Mammals, National Environmental Research Institute, University of Aarhus, Roskilde, Denmark.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Sonne C, Dietz R, Kirkegaard M, Letcher RJ, Shahmiri S, Andersen S, Møller P, Olsen AK, Jensen AL. Effects of organohalogen pollutants on haematological and urine clinical-chemical parameters in Greenland sledge dogs (Canis familiaris). ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2008; 69:381-90. [PMID: 17434585 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2007.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2006] [Revised: 02/26/2007] [Accepted: 03/06/2007] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Seven West Greenland sledge dog bitches (Canis familiaris) and their three pups were fed 50-200 g of contaminated West Greenland minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) blubber, and in a control cohort eight sister bitches and their five pups were fed a similar amount pork fat. Blood plasma and urine clinical-chemical parameters were measured and compared between the bitches and pups form the control and exposed cohorts. Based on existing reference intervals, Arctic mammals may have blood clinical-chemical endpoint levels that differ from comparable species at lower latitudes. The cortisol:creatinine ratio, protein:creatinine ratio, alkaline phosphatase, cholesterol and inorganic phosphate were significantly highest (ANCOVA: all p<0.05) in the pup generation. The cortisol:creatinine ratio, cholesterol, lactate dehydrogenase and creatinine kinase were significantly higher (ANCOVA: all p<0.05) in the control group, while glucose was significantly highest (ANCOVA: p<0.05) in the exposed group. Furthermore, the blood cholesterol levels indicate that exposure via the diet to marine mammal blubber has a preventive effect on the development of cardiovascular diseases. We therefore suggest that the consumption of contaminated Arctic marine blubber impacted liver and kidney function in adult and pup sledge dogs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Sonne
- Section for Contaminants and Marine Mammals, Department of Arctic Environment, National Environmental Research Institute, University of Aarhus, Roskilde, Denmark.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Bechshøft TØ, Wiig Ø, Sonne C, Rigét FF, Dietz R, Letcher RJ, Muir DCG. Temporal and Spatial Variation in Metric Asymmetry in Skulls of Polar Bears (Ursus maritimus) from East Greenland and Svalbard. ANN ZOOL FENN 2008. [DOI: 10.5735/086.045.0102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
44
|
Sonne C, Leifsson PS, Dietz R, Kirkegaard M, Jensen AL, Shahmiri S, Letcher RJ. Greenland sledge dogs (Canis familiaris) develop liver lesions when exposed to a chronic and dietary low dose of an environmental organohalogen cocktail. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2008; 106:72-80. [PMID: 17904542 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2007.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2007] [Revised: 05/22/2007] [Accepted: 08/03/2007] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
We assessed the relationship between exposure to organohalogen polluted minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) blubber and liver morphology and function in a generational controlled study of 28 Greenland sledge dogs (Canis familiaris). The prevalence of portal fibrosis, mild bile duct hyperplasia, and vascular leukocyte infiltrations was significantly higher in the exposed group (all Chi-square: p<0.05). In case of granulomas, the frequency was significantly highest in the bitches (P generation) while the prevalence of portal fibrosis was highest in the F generation (pups) (both Chi-square: p<0.05). No significant difference between exposed and controls was found for bile acid, ALAT, and ALKP, while ASAT and LDH were significantly highest in the control group (both ANOVA: p<0.05). We therefore suggest that a daily intake of 50-200g environmentally organohalogen polluted minke whale blubber can cause liver lesions in Greenland sledge dogs. It is reasonable to infer that other apex predators such as polar bears (Ursus maritimus) and humans may suffer from similar impacts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Sonne
- Section for Contaminants, Effects and Marine Mammals, Department of Arctic Environment, National Environmental Research Institute, University of Aarhus, Frederiksborgvej 399, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Fox GA, Grasman KA, Campbell GD. Health of herring gulls (Larus argentatus) in relation to breeding location in the early 1990s. II. Cellular and histopathological measures. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2007; 70:1471-91. [PMID: 17687731 DOI: 10.1080/15287390701384536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Organosomatic indices, hematological indicators of stress, and histopathological lesions were quantified for over 150 incubating herring gulls (Larus argentatus) sampled in 11 colonies throughout the Great Lakes and reference colonies in Lake Winnipeg and the Bay of Fundy. Of 21 parameters assessed, significantly more differed between Great Lakes colonies and reference colonies than between the two reference colonies. Relative adrenal, kidney, and liver masses of gulls from some Great Lakes colonies were reduced and thyroid masses increased relative to gulls from reference colonies. Foci of cellular atypia were observed in the hepatocytes of two Great Lakes gulls. Chronic periportal hepatitis, lipogranulomas and vacuolation of hepatocytes, and chronic granulomatous interstitial nephritis were more prevalent or severe in gulls from Great Lakes colonies and were associated with contaminants. The kidneys of gulls from the three most contaminated locations were damaged and functionally compromised. Interstitial nephritis was likely the most functionally significant histopathological lesion. Portal-tract fibrosis, granulomatous hepatitis, and kidney tubule dilation/obstruction and splenic enlargement were more prevalent or severe at reference sites and were associated with blood-borne parasites. Amyloid deposits were observed in the spleen, kidneys, or liver of nearly half of the gulls. Associations between the prevalence or severity of lesions and contaminant levels in gull tissues or the trophic level of their diet suggest some lesions are toxicopathic. Associations were most frequently found with planar halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons and lead. The stress response, as measured by the heterophil/lymphocyte ratio, was attenuated in gulls from Areas of Concern and associated with decreased adrenal mass. Our findings suggest that adult Great Lakes gulls suffered from chronic exposure to chemical stressors in the early 1990s sufficient to modulate endocrine function and physiological processes and induce structural changes in tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Glen A Fox
- Canadian Wildlife Service, Environment Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Sonne C, Fonfara S, Dietz R, Kirkegaard M, Letcher RJ, Shahmiri S, Andersen S, Møller P. Multiple cytokine and acute-phase protein gene transcription in West Greenland sledge dogs (Canis familiaris) dietary exposed to organic environmental pollutants. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2007; 53:110-8. [PMID: 17396211 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-006-0135-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2006] [Accepted: 11/05/2006] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Exposure levels of persistent organic pollutants, such as polychlorinated biphenyls and DDTs, are high in Arctic apex predators and Inuit peoples and are suspected to have negative impacts on their immune systems. We conducted a controlled generational study on liver tissue and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid blood cytokine and acute-phase protein (APP) mRNA expressions using reverse transcriptionase-polymerase chain reaction in West Greenland sledge dogs (Canis familiaris); contaminated minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) blubber serves as dietary pollutant source. Two of seven blood cytokine expressions (IL-6 and IL-12) and three of five APP expressions (haptoglobin [HP], heat shock protein, and fatty acid-binding protein [FABP]) were lowest in the exposed group, whereas the remaining five blood cytokine expressions (IL-2, IL-10, IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha, and TGF-beta) and two APP expressions (MT1 and MT2) were highest in the exposed group. In liver tissue, three cytokine expressions (IL-10, IFN-gamma, and TNF-alpha) and two APP expressions (MT1 and MT2) were highest in the exposed group, and the remaining cytokine and APP expressions were lowest in the exposed group. Of these, the liver tissue expression of HP and FABP was significantly lowest in the exposed group (both p < 0.05). As a consequence of our findings, we suggest that a daily intake of 50 to 200 g polluted whale blubber is associated with a genotoxic decrease in HP and FABP gene expression in the liver of sledge dog and possibly of other top mammalian marine predators and consumers in the Arctic, indicating a restricted acute-phase reaction and insufficient immune response. Finally, HP and FABP liver expression appear to be new and sensitive biomarkers of organohalogen compound exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Sonne
- Department of Arctic Environment Section for Contaminants and Marine Mammals, National Environmental Research Institute, University of Aarhus, Frederiksborgvej 399, P. O. Box 358, DK-4000, Roskilde, Denmark.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Sonne C, Dietz R, Leifsson PS, Asmund G, Born EW, Kirkegaard M. Are liver and renal lesions in East Greenland polar bears (Ursus maritimus) associated with high mercury levels? Environ Health 2007; 6:11. [PMID: 17439647 PMCID: PMC1855925 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-6-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2007] [Accepted: 04/17/2007] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the Arctic, polar bears (Ursus maritimus) bio-accumulate mercury as they prey on polluted ringed seals (Phoca hispida) and bearded seals (Erignathus barbatus). Studies have shown that polar bears from East Greenland are among the most mercury polluted species in the Arctic. It is unknown whether these levels are toxic to liver and kidney tissue. METHODS We investigated the histopathological impact from anthropogenic long-range transported mercury on East Greenland polar bear liver (n = 59) and kidney (n = 57) tissues. RESULTS Liver mercury levels ranged from 1.1-35.6 microg/g wet weight and renal levels ranged from 1-50 microg/g wet weight, of which 2 liver values and 9 kidney values were above known toxic threshold level of 30 microg/g wet weight in terrestrial mammals. Evaluated from age-correcting ANCOVA analyses, liver mercury levels were significantly higher in individuals with visible Ito cells (p < 0.02) and a similar trend was found for lipid granulomas (p = 0.07). Liver mercury levels were significantly lower in individuals with portal bile duct proliferation/fibrosis (p = 0.007) and a similar trend was found for proximal convoluted tubular hyalinisation in renal tissue (p = 0.07). CONCLUSION Based on these relationships and the nature of the chronic inflammation we conclude that the lesions were likely a result of recurrent infections and ageing but that long-term exposure to mercury could not be excluded as a co-factor. The information is important as it is likely that tropospheric mercury depletion events will continue to increase the concentrations of this toxic heavy metal in the Sub Arctic and Arctic marine food webs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Sonne
- Section for Contaminants, Effects and Marine Mammals, Department of Arctic Environment, National Environmental Research Institute, University of Aarhus, Frederiksborgvej 399, POBox 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Rune Dietz
- Section for Contaminants, Effects and Marine Mammals, Department of Arctic Environment, National Environmental Research Institute, University of Aarhus, Frederiksborgvej 399, POBox 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Pall S Leifsson
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Bülowsvej 17, DK-1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Gert Asmund
- Section for Contaminants, Effects and Marine Mammals, Department of Arctic Environment, National Environmental Research Institute, University of Aarhus, Frederiksborgvej 399, POBox 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Erik W Born
- Greenland Institute of Natural Resources, P.O. Box 570, DK-3900 Nuuk, Greenland
| | - Maja Kirkegaard
- Section for Contaminants, Effects and Marine Mammals, Department of Arctic Environment, National Environmental Research Institute, University of Aarhus, Frederiksborgvej 399, POBox 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Sonne C, Leifsson PS, Dietz R, Born EW, Letcher RJ, Hyldstrup L, Riget FF, Kirkegaard M, Muir DCG. Xenoendocrine pollutants may reduce size of sexual organs in East Greenland polar bears (Ursus maritimus). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2006; 40:5668-74. [PMID: 17007124 DOI: 10.1021/es060836n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Reproductive organs from 55 male and 44 female East Greenland polar bears were examined to investigate the potential negative impact from organohalogen pollutants (OHCs). Multiple regressions normalizing for age showed a significant inverse relationship between OHCs and testis length and baculum length and weight, respectively, and was found in both subadults (dichlorodiphenyl trichloroethanes, dieldrin, chlordanes, hexacyclohexanes, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)) and adults (hexachlorobenzene [HCB]) (all p < 0.05). Baculum bone mineral densities decreased with increasing chlordanes, DDTs, and HCB in subadults and adults, respectively (all p < 0.05). In females, a significant inverse relationship was found between ovary length and sigma PCB (p = 0.03) and sigma CHL (p < 0.01), respectively, and between ovary weight and sigma PBDE (p < 0.01) and uterine horn length and HCB (p = 0.02). The study suggests thatthere is an impact from xenoendocrine pollutants on the size of East Greenland polar bear genitalia. This may pose a riskto this polar bear subpopulation in the future because of reduced sperm and egg quality/quantity and uterus and penis size/robustness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Sonne
- Department of Arctic Environment, National Environmental Research Institute, Frederiksborgvej 399, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Dai J, Li M, Jin Y, Saito N, Xu M, Wei F. Perfluorooctanesulfonate and periluorooctanoate in red panda and giant panda from China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2006; 40:5647-52. [PMID: 17007121 DOI: 10.1021/es0609710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) are important perfluorochemicals (PFCs) in various applications. Recently, it has been shown that these compounds are widespread in the environment, wildlife, and humans. The giant panda and the red panda belong to the order Carnivora, but are highly specialized as bamboo feeders. Both species are considered rare and endangered. In this study, we report for the first time on levels of PFOS and PFOA in serum of the giant panda and the red panda captured in zoos and animal parks from six provinces in China. PFOS was the predominant compound in all panda samples measured (ranging from 0.80 to 73.80 microg/L for red panda and from 0.76 to 19.00 microg/L for giant panda). The PFOA level ranged from 0.33 to 8.20 microg/L for red panda, and from 0.32 to 1.56 microg/L for giant panda. There was a positive significant correlation between concentrations of PFOS and PFOA in the serum obtained from pandas. No age- or sex- related differences were observed in concentrations of the fluorochemicals in panda sera. Greater concentrations of the fluorochemicals were found for those individuals collected from zoos near urbanized or industrialized areas than for other areas. These data combined with other reported data suggest that there are large differences in distribution of perfluorinated compounds in terrestrial animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiayin Dai
- Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100080, P.R. China.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Sonne C, Dietz R, Larsen HJS, Loft KE, Kirkegaard M, Letcher RJ, Shahmiri S, Móller P. Impairment of cellular immunity in west Greenland sledge dogs (Canis familiaris) dietary exposed to polluted minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) blubber. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2006; 40:2056-62. [PMID: 16570636 DOI: 10.1021/es052151d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) blubber is rich in organohalogen contaminants, mercury, and n-3 fatty acids. In the present study we show that a daily intake of 50-200 g of minke whale blubber causes an impairment of the nonspecific and specific cellular immune system in the West Greenland sledge dog (Canis familiaris). Immune reactions were measured by mitogen (PHA, Con A) and antigen (KLH) intradermal testing, and as the study used exposure levels similar to those of Inuits and polar bears (Ursus maritimus), it is reasonable to infer that Inuits and polar bears suffer from similar decreased resistance to diseases. It is speculated that food sources are depleted by thinning sea ice due to climate change and that more research should assess the forecasted rise in additive immunopathy effects in polar bears. Additionally, our study suggests that the fatty acid composition may be of importance when investigating combined immunotoxic effects of contaminated food resources in future Inuit and polar bear studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Sonne
- Department of Arctic Environment, National Environmental Research Institute, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|