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Vohra V, Dirks A, Bonito G, James T, Carroll DK. A 19-year longitudinal assessment of gyromitrin-containing (Gyromitra spp.) mushroom poisonings in Michigan. Toxicon 2024; 247:107825. [PMID: 38908526 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2024.107825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
Mushroom poisonings are common in the United States. Gyromitrin (acetaldehyde N-methyl-N-formylhydrazone) is a clinically significant mycotoxin primarily associated with the lorchel (i.e. the false morel) Gyromitra esculenta. Resemblance between 'true and false morels' has resulted in misidentification of Gyromitra spp. as edible and sought after Morchella spp., resulting in toxicity. Despite literature evidence outlining toxic sequalae, Gyromitra spp. mushrooms are commonly consumed and prepared for culinary purposes. Classic clinical teachings emphasize significant neurotoxicity, including seizures, associated with ingestion of gyromitrin-containing mushrooms, stemming from gyromitrin's terminal metabolite monomethylhydrazine. We performed a longitudinal descriptive review of the clinical toxicity associated with ingestion of mushroom species known or suspected to contain gyromitrin in cases reported to the Michigan Poison & Drug Information Center between January 1, 2002, to December 31, 2020. Our 19-year descriptive case series of gyromitrin-containing mushroom ingestions reported to our Center demonstrated a preponderance of gastrointestinal signs and symptoms, including hepatotoxicity. Of 118 identified cases, 108 (91.5%) of the reported ingestions involved Gyromitra esculenta. The most frequent clinical findings associated with symptomatic ingestions (n = 83) were the aforementioned gastrointestinal symptoms (n = 62; 74.7%). Neurological symptoms were less frequent (n = 22, 26.5%) while hepatotoxicity occurred in fewer patients (n = 14; 16.9%). Of symptomatic patients, most were treated with symptomatic and supportive care (n = 58; 70%). Pyridoxine was used in a total of seven patients (n = 7; 8.4%) with either hepatotoxicity or neurotoxicity. Medical outcomes ranged from minor to major, with no reported deaths. Patient presentations (i.e. GI vs. neurotoxic symptoms) following ingestion of gyromitrin-containing mushrooms may be highly variable and multifactorial, owing to differences in dose ingested, geographical distribution, genetic variability of both patient and mushroom species, and species-specific differences in toxin composition. Future research warrants species-level identification of ingested gyromitrin-containing mushrooms and investigating the contribution of genetic polymorphisms to differences in clinical toxidromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Vohra
- Michigan Poison & Drug Information Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, 550 East Canfield St., Detroit, MI, USA.
| | - A Dirks
- University of Michigan, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, 4038 Biological Sciences Building, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - G Bonito
- Michigan State University, College of Agriculture & Natural Resources, Department of Plant, Soil, and Microbial Sciences, 1066 Bogue Street, East Lansing, MI, USA.
| | - T James
- University of Michigan, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, 4038 Biological Sciences Building, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - D K Carroll
- Detroit Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, 4201 St. Antoine St., Detroit, MI, USA.
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Reis J, Spencer PS. An introduction to environmental neurotoxicology: Lessons from a clinical perspective. J Neurol Sci 2024; 463:123108. [PMID: 38991324 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2024.123108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
In 1992, the Committee on Neurotoxicology and Models for Assessing Risk of the National Academy of Sciences in Washington DC focused with a scientific perspective on the identification of substances with neurotoxic potential, studies of exposed populations, risk assessment, and biologic markers of disease. This Committee recommended: "all physicians should be trained to take a thorough occupational-exposure history and to be aware of other possible sources of toxic exposure". Although convened after several outbreaks of neurotoxic syndromes, clinical neurological considerations were lacking. After defining keys words, namely Environment, Neurotoxicology and Neurotoxicants, we present some demonstrative cases; e.g., the Epidemic Neuropathy in Cuba, Minamata disease, ALS/PDC on Guam, and the ALS hot spot in the French Alps. Always with a clinical and practical approach, we will then review the milieux that contain and convey potential neurotoxicants, the different exposure routes and the clinical presentations. Drawing lessons from clinical cases, we offer some thoughts concerning the future of Environmental Neurotoxicology (ENT). Pointing notably to the diffuse chemical contamination of ecosystems and living beings, including Homo sapiens, we question the real impact of agents with neurotoxic potential on the human brain, considering the effects, for example, of air pollution, endocrine disruptors and nanoparticles. Concern is expressed over the lack of knowledge of the non-monotonic kinetics of many of these chemicals, the major concern being related to mixtures and low-dose exposures, as well as the delayed appearance in clinical expression of prevalent neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Reis
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France; Association RISE, 67205 Oberhausbergen, France.
| | - P S Spencer
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, and Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
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3
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Du Q, Xing N, Guo S, Li R, Meng X, Wang S. Cycads: A comprehensive review of its botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2024; 220:114001. [PMID: 38286200 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2024.114001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Cycads, which primarily consist of the families Cycadaceae and Zamiaceae, possess intrinsic therapeutic attributes that are prominently expressed across their morphological spectrum, including roots, leaves, flowers, and seeds. In Chinese traditional medicine, the leaves of cycads are particularly revered for their profound healing capabilities. This meticulous review engages with existing literature on cycads and presents insightful avenues for future research. Over 210 phytoconstituents have been isolated and identified from various cycad tissues, including flavonoids, azoxy metabolites, sterols, lignans, non-proteogenic amino acids, terpenoids, and other organic constituents. The contemporary pharmacological discourse highlights the antineoplastic, antimicrobial, and antidiabetic activities inherent in these ancient plants, which are of particular importance to the field of oncology. Despite the prevalent focus on crude extracts and total flavonoid content, our understanding of the nuanced pharmacodynamics of cycads lags considerably behind. The notoriety of cycads derived toxicity, notably within the context of Guam's neurological disease cluster, has precipitated an established emphasis on toxicological research within this field. As such, this critical review emphasizes nascent domains deserving of academic and clinical pursuit, whilst nested within the broader matrix of current scientific understanding. The systematic taxonomy, traditional applications, phytochemical composition, therapeutic potential, and safety profile of cycads are holistically interrogated, assimilating an indispensable repository for future scholarly inquiries. In conclusion, cycads stand as a veritable treasure trove of pharmacological virtue, displaying remarkable therapeutic prowess and holding vast promise for ongoing scientific discovery and clinical utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinyun Du
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Nan Xing
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Sa Guo
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China
| | - Rui Li
- Meishan Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Meishan, 620010, China
| | - Xianli Meng
- Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
| | - Shaohui Wang
- Meishan Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Meishan, 620010, China; School of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
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Goutman SA, Savelieff MG, Jang DG, Hur J, Feldman EL. The amyotrophic lateral sclerosis exposome: recent advances and future directions. Nat Rev Neurol 2023; 19:617-634. [PMID: 37709948 PMCID: PMC11027963 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-023-00867-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal disease of motor neuron degeneration with typical survival of only 2-5 years from diagnosis. The causes of ALS are multifactorial: known genetic mutations account for only around 70% of cases of familial ALS and 15% of sporadic cases, and heritability estimates range from 8% to 61%, indicating additional causes beyond genetics. Consequently, interest has grown in environmental contributions to ALS risk and progression. The gene-time-environment hypothesis posits that ALS onset occurs through an interaction of genes with environmental exposures during ageing. An alternative hypothesis, the multistep model of ALS, suggests that several hits, at least some of which could be environmental, are required to trigger disease onset, even in the presence of highly penetrant ALS-associated mutations. Studies have sought to characterize the ALS exposome - the lifetime accumulation of environmental exposures that increase disease risk and affect progression. Identifying the full scope of environmental toxicants that enhance ALS risk raises the prospect of preventing disease by eliminating or mitigating exposures. In this Review, we summarize the evidence for an ALS exposome, discussing the strengths and limitations of epidemiological studies that have identified contributions from various sources. We also consider potential mechanisms of exposure-mediated toxicity and suggest future directions for ALS exposome research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen A Goutman
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- NeuroNetwork for Emerging Therapies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Masha G Savelieff
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, USA
| | - Dae-Gyu Jang
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- NeuroNetwork for Emerging Therapies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Junguk Hur
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, USA
| | - Eva L Feldman
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- NeuroNetwork for Emerging Therapies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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Menšíková K, Steele JC, Rosales R, Colosimo C, Spencer P, Lannuzel A, Ugawa Y, Sasaki R, Giménez-Roldán S, Matej R, Tuckova L, Hrabos D, Kolarikova K, Vodicka R, Vrtel R, Strnad M, Hlustik P, Otruba P, Prochazka M, Bares M, Boluda S, Buee L, Ransmayr G, Kaňovský P. Endemic parkinsonism: clusters, biology and clinical features. Nat Rev Neurol 2023; 19:599-616. [PMID: 37684518 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-023-00866-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
The term 'endemic parkinsonism' refers to diseases that manifest with a dominant parkinsonian syndrome, which can be typical or atypical, and are present only in a particular geographically defined location or population. Ten phenotypes of endemic parkinsonism are currently known: three in the Western Pacific region; two in the Asian-Oceanic region; one in the Caribbean islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique; and four in Europe. Some of these disease entities seem to be disappearing over time and therefore are probably triggered by unique environmental factors. By contrast, other types persist because they are exclusively genetically determined. Given the geographical clustering and potential overlap in biological and clinical features of these exceptionally interesting diseases, this Review provides a historical reference text and offers current perspectives on each of the 10 phenotypes of endemic parkinsonism. Knowledge obtained from the study of these disease entities supports the hypothesis that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases, not only in endemic parkinsonism but also in general. At the same time, this understanding suggests useful directions for further research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Menšíková
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neuroscience Center, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
- University Hospital, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | | | - Raymond Rosales
- Research Center for Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Santo Tomás, Manila, The Philippines
- St Luke's Institute of Neuroscience, Metro, Manila, The Philippines
| | - Carlo Colosimo
- Department of Neurology, Santa Maria University Hospital, Terni, Italy
| | - Peter Spencer
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Annie Lannuzel
- Départment de Neurologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de la Guadeloupe, Pointe-á-Pitre, France
| | - Yoshikazu Ugawa
- Department of Human Neurophysiology, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Ryogen Sasaki
- Department of Neurology, Kuwana City Medical Center, Kuwana, Japan
| | | | - Radoslav Matej
- Department of Pathology, 3rd Medical Faculty, Charles University and University Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, 3rd Medical Faculty, Charles University and Thomayer University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lucie Tuckova
- University Hospital, Olomouc, Czech Republic
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Dominik Hrabos
- University Hospital, Olomouc, Czech Republic
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Kristyna Kolarikova
- University Hospital, Olomouc, Czech Republic
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Radek Vodicka
- University Hospital, Olomouc, Czech Republic
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Radek Vrtel
- University Hospital, Olomouc, Czech Republic
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Strnad
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neuroscience Center, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
- University Hospital, Olomouc, Czech Republic
- Laboratory of Growth Regulators, Faculty of Science, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Hlustik
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neuroscience Center, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
- University Hospital, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Otruba
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neuroscience Center, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
- University Hospital, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Prochazka
- University Hospital, Olomouc, Czech Republic
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Bares
- First Department of Neurology, Masaryk University Medical School, Brno, Czech Republic
- St Anne University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Susana Boluda
- Département de Neuropathologie, Hôpital La Pitié - Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Luc Buee
- Lille Neuroscience & Cognition Research Centre, INSERM U1172, Lille, France
| | - Gerhard Ransmayr
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Johannes Kepler University, Linz, Austria
| | - Petr Kaňovský
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neuroscience Center, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic.
- University Hospital, Olomouc, Czech Republic.
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Liu W, Huang J, Yan Z, Lin Y, Huang G, Chen X, Wang Z, Spencer PS, Liu J. Association of N-nitrosodimethylamine exposure with cognitive impairment based on the clues of mice and humans. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1137164. [PMID: 37441677 PMCID: PMC10333700 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1137164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) is an environmental and food contaminant, but limited data to concern whether NDMA has adverse effects on the brain. This study first determined the concentration of NDMA in foods from aquaculture markets in Shenzhen, then analyzed the effects on C57BL/6 mice and further evaluated on the urine samples of elderly Chinese residents with normal cognition (NC, n = 144), cognitive decline (CD, n = 116) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI, n = 123). The excessive rate of NDMA in foods was 3.32% (27/813), with a exceeding range of 4.78-131.00 μg/kg. Behavioral tests showed that 60 days treatment of mice with 3 mg/kg NDMA reduced cognitive performance. Cognitive impairment in human was significantly associated with sex, educational levels, length of residence in Shenzhen, household registration, passive smoking, rice, fresh vegetables, bacon products. NDMA was detected in 55.4% (212/383) of urine samples, with a median concentration of 0.23 μg/L (1.20 × 10 -7-157.39 μg/L). The median concentration for NC, CD and MCI were 0.32, 0.27, and 0 μg/L, respectively. The urinary NDMA concentration had a strong negative correlation with cognitive impairment (Kendall's Tau-b = -0.89, P = 0.024). The median estimated daily intake (EDI) of NDMA was determined to be 6.63 ng/kg-bw/day. Taken together, there appears to be an association between NDMA and human and murine cognition, which provides a new clue to Alzheimer's disease (AD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology, Shenzhen Medical Key Discipline of Health Toxicology (2020–2024), Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, China
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Epidemiology of Hunan Province, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
- Department of Communicable Diseases Control and Prevention, Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jia Huang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology, Shenzhen Medical Key Discipline of Health Toxicology (2020–2024), Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, China
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Epidemiology of Hunan Province, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhi Yan
- Food Inspection and Quarantine Center, Shenzhen Customs, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yankui Lin
- Food Inspection and Quarantine Center, Shenzhen Customs, Shenzhen, China
| | - Guanqin Huang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology, Shenzhen Medical Key Discipline of Health Toxicology (2020–2024), Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiao Chen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology, Shenzhen Medical Key Discipline of Health Toxicology (2020–2024), Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhou Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology, Shenzhen Medical Key Discipline of Health Toxicology (2020–2024), Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, China
| | - Peter S. Spencer
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Jianjun Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology, Shenzhen Medical Key Discipline of Health Toxicology (2020–2024), Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, China
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Epidemiology of Hunan Province, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
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Spencer PS, Palmer VS, Kisby GE, Lagrange E, Horowitz BZ, Valdes Angues R, Reis J, Vernoux JP, Raoul C, Camu W. Early-onset, conjugal, twin-discordant, and clusters of sporadic ALS: Pathway to discovery of etiology via lifetime exposome research. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1005096. [PMID: 36860617 PMCID: PMC9969898 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1005096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The identity and role of environmental factors in the etiology of sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (sALS) is poorly understood outside of three former high-incidence foci of Western Pacific ALS and a hotspot of sALS in the French Alps. In both instances, there is a strong association with exposure to DNA-damaging (genotoxic) chemicals years or decades prior to clinical onset of motor neuron disease. In light of this recent understanding, we discuss published geographic clusters of ALS, conjugal cases, single-affected twins, and young-onset cases in relation to their demographic, geographic and environmental associations but also whether, in theory, there was the possibility of exposure to genotoxic chemicals of natural or synthetic origin. Special opportunities to test for such exposures in sALS exist in southeast France, northwest Italy, Finland, the U.S. East North Central States, and in the U.S. Air Force and Space Force. Given the degree and timing of exposure to an environmental trigger of ALS may be related to the age at which the disease is expressed, research should focus on the lifetime exposome (from conception to clinical onset) of young sALS cases. Multidisciplinary research of this type may lead to the identification of ALS causation, mechanism, and primary prevention, as well as to early detection of impending ALS and pre-clinical treatment to slow development of this fatal neurological disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter S. Spencer
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States,Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States,*Correspondence: Peter S. Spencer,
| | - Valerie S. Palmer
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Glen E. Kisby
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific Northwest, Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, OR, United States
| | - Emmeline Lagrange
- Department of Neurology, Reference Center of Neuromuscular Disease and ALS Consultations, Grenoble University Hospital, Grenoble, France
| | - B. Zane Horowitz
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Oregon-Alaska Poison Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Raquel Valdes Angues
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Jacques Reis
- University of Strasbourg, Faculté de Médecine, Strasbourg, France
| | - Jean-Paul Vernoux
- Normandie Université, UNICAEN, Unité de Recherche Aliments Bioprocédés Toxicologie Environnements, Caen, France
| | - Cédric Raoul
- INM, University of Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - William Camu
- ALS Reference Center, Montpellier University Hospital and University of Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
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Henriquez G, Ahlawat J, Fairman R, Narayan M. Citric Acid-Derived Carbon Quantum Dots Attenuate Paraquat-Induced Neuronal Compromise In Vitro and In Vivo. ACS Chem Neurosci 2022; 13:2399-2409. [PMID: 35942850 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.2c00099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The potent environmental herbicide and weedicide paraquat is linked to neuromotor defects and Parkinson's disease (PD). We have evaluated the neuroprotective role of citric acid-sourced carbon quantum dots (Cit-CQDs) on paraquat-insulted human neuroblastoma-derived SH-SY5Y cell lines and on a paraquat-exposed nematode (Caenorhabditis elegans). Our data reveal that Cit-CQDs are able to scavenge free radicals in test tube assays and mitigate paraquat-elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in SH-SY5Y cells. Furthermore, Cit-CQDs protect the cell line from paraquat, which otherwise elicits cell death. Cit-CQDs-challenged nematodes demonstrate enhanced survival rates 72 h post-paraquat exposure compared to controls. Paraquat ablates dopamine (DA) neurons, which results in compromised locomotor function in nematodes. However, the neurons remained intact when the nematodes were incubated with Cit-CQDs prior to neurotoxicant exposure. The collective data suggest Cit-CQDs offer neuroprotection for cell lines and organisms from xenotoxicant-associated neuronal injury and death. The study suggests Cit-CQDs as a potentially viable green chemistry-synthesized, biobased nanomaterial for intervention in neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Henriquez
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), El Paso, Texas 79968, United States
| | - Jyoti Ahlawat
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), El Paso, Texas 79968, United States
| | - Robert Fairman
- Department of Biology, Haverford College, Haverford, Pennsylvania 19041, United States
| | - Mahesh Narayan
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), El Paso, Texas 79968, United States
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Yoshida S. Therapeutic Strategies and Metal-Induced Oxidative Stress: Application of Synchrotron Radiation Microbeam to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in the Kii Peninsula of Japan. Front Neurol 2022; 13:884439. [PMID: 35837234 PMCID: PMC9273737 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.884439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A series of extensive gene-environment studies on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Parkinsonism–dementia complex (PDC) in Guam Island, USA, and the Kii Peninsula of Japan, including Auyu Jakai, West New Guinea, have led us to hypothesize that a prolonged low calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) intake, especially over generation, may cause oxidative stress to motor and nigral neurons by an increased uptake of environment metallic elements, i.e., aluminum (Al), manganese (Mn), and iron (Fe). Otherwise, 5–10% of total ALS cases are familial ALS (fALS), of which 20% of the fALS cases linked to a point mutation of Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1). In the vicinity of the Kii Peninsula, about 7% of the ALS cases are also linked to the SOD1 mutation. Using synchrotron radiation (SR) microbeam, conglomerate inclusion (SOD1 aggregates) within a spinal motor neuron of the fALS case in the vicinity revealed a loss of copper (Cu) in contrast to extremely high contents of Zinc (Zn) and Ca. That means an exceptionally low Cu/Zn ratio with an increased Ca content, indicating the abnormalities of the active site of SOD1 protein of the fALS. Furthermore, sALS in the southernmost high incidence areas of the Kii Peninsula showed a low Cu/Zn ratio within a motor neuron, suggesting a fragility of SOD1 proteins. From the perspective of gene–environment interactions, the above two research trends may show a common oxidative stress underlying the neuronal degenerative process of ALS/PDC in the Kii Peninsula of Japan. Therefore, it is a crucial point for the prospect of therapeutic strategy to clarify a role of transition metals in the oxidative process in both ALS/PDC, including ALS elsewhere in the world. This paper reviews a history of the genetic epidemiological studies, especially from the aspect of gene–environment interaction, on ALS/PDC in the Kii and Guam high incidence foci and the results of a series of analytical research on trace metallic elements within neurons of both sALS and fALS cases, especially using a synchrotron radiation (SR) microbeam of Spring-8 and Photon Factory of Japan. The SR microbeam is an ideal X-ray source, which supplies an extremely high brilliance (high-intensity photon) and tunability (energy variability) to investigate trace metallic elements contained in biological specimens at the cellular level, even more without any damages. This research will provide a valuable information about the mechanism of oxidative stress involved in neuronal cell death in ALS and related neurodegenerative disorders. To elucidate the physicochemical mechanism of the oxidative process in neuronal degeneration, it will shed a new light on the therapeutic strategies for ALS/PDC in near future.
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Edgar JA, Molyneux RJ, Colegate SM. 1,2-Dehydropyrrolizidine Alkaloids: Their Potential as a Dietary Cause of Sporadic Motor Neuron Diseases. Chem Res Toxicol 2022; 35:340-354. [PMID: 35238548 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.1c00384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Sporadic motor neuron diseases (MNDs), such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), can be caused by spontaneous genetic mutations. However, many sporadic cases of ALS and other debilitating neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are believed to be caused by environmental factors, subject to considerable debate and requiring intensive research. A common pathology associated with MND development involves progressive mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress in motor neurons and glial cells of the central nervous system (CNS), leading to apoptosis. Consequent degeneration of skeletal and respiratory muscle cells can lead to death from respiratory failure. A significant number of MND cases present with cancers and liver and lung pathology. This Perspective explores the possibility that MNDs could be caused by intermittent, low-level dietary exposure to 1,2-dehydropyrrolizidine alkaloids (1,2-dehydroPAs) that are increasingly recognized as contaminants of many foods consumed throughout the world. Nontoxic, per se, 1,2-dehydroPAs are metabolized, by particular cytochrome P450 (CYP450) isoforms, to 6,7-dihydropyrrolizines that react with nucleophilic groups (-NH, -SH, -OH) on DNA, proteins, and other vital biochemicals, such as glutathione. Many factors, including aging, gender, smoking, and alcohol consumption, influence CYP450 isoform activity in a range of tissues, including glial cells and neurons of the CNS. Activation of 1,2-dehydroPAs in CNS cells can be expected to cause gene mutations and oxidative stress, potentially leading to the development of MNDs and other NDDs. While relatively high dietary exposure to 1,2-dehydroPAs causes hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome, pulmonary venoocclusive disease, neurotoxicity, and diverse cancers, this Perspective suggests that, at current intermittent, low levels of dietary exposure, neurotoxicity could become the primary pathology that develops over time in susceptible individuals, along with a tendency for some of them to also display liver and lung pathology and diverse cancers co-occurring with some MND/NDD cases. Targeted research is recommended to investigate this proposal.
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Affiliation(s)
- John A Edgar
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, 11 Julius Avenue, North Ryde, New South Wales 2113, Australia
| | - Russell J Molyneux
- Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy, University of Hawaii at Hilo, 200 West Kawili Street, Hilo, Hawaii 96720, United States
| | - Steven M Colegate
- Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory, ARS/USDA, 1150 East 1400 North, Logan, Utah 84341, United States
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11
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Kisby GE, Spencer PS. Genotoxic Damage During Brain Development Presages Prototypical Neurodegenerative Disease. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:752153. [PMID: 34924930 PMCID: PMC8675606 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.752153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Western Pacific Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Parkinsonism-Dementia Complex (ALS/PDC) is a disappearing prototypical neurodegenerative disorder (tau-dominated polyproteinopathy) linked with prior exposure to phytogenotoxins in cycad seed used for medicine and/or food. The principal cycad genotoxin, methylazoxymethanol (MAM), forms reactive carbon-centered ions that alkylate nucleic acids in fetal rodent brain and, depending on the timing of systemic administration, induces persistent developmental abnormalities of the cortex, hippocampus, cerebellum, and retina. Whereas administration of MAM prenatally or postnatally can produce animal models of epilepsy, schizophrenia or ataxia, administration to adult animals produces little effect on brain structure or function. The neurotoxic effects of MAM administered to rats during cortical brain development (specifically, gestation day 17) are used to model the histological, neurophysiological and behavioral deficits of human schizophrenia, a condition that may precede or follow clinical onset of motor neuron disease in subjects with sporadic ALS and ALS/PDC. While studies of migrants to and from communities impacted by ALS/PDC indicate the degenerative brain disorder may be acquired in juvenile and adult life, a proportion of indigenous cases shows neurodevelopmental aberrations in the cerebellum and retina consistent with MAM exposure in utero. MAM induces specific patterns of DNA damage and repair that associate with increased tau expression in primary rat neuronal cultures and with brain transcriptional changes that parallel those associated with human ALS and Alzheimer's disease. We examine MAM in relation to neurodevelopment, epigenetic modification, DNA damage/replicative stress, genomic instability, somatic mutation, cell-cycle reentry and cellular senescence. Since the majority of neurodegenerative disease lacks a solely inherited genetic basis, research is needed to explore the hypothesis that early-life exposure to genotoxic agents may trigger or promote molecular events that culminate in neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glen E. Kisby
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, OR, United States
| | - Peter S. Spencer
- School of Medicine (Neurology), Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
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12
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Giménez-Roldán S, Steele JC, Palmer VS, Spencer PS. Lytico-bodig in Guam: Historical links between diet and illness during and after Spanish colonization. JOURNAL OF THE HISTORY OF THE NEUROSCIENCES 2021; 30:335-374. [PMID: 34197260 DOI: 10.1080/0964704x.2021.1885946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This paper analyses documents on health and disease among Chamorro people during and after 333 years (1565-1898) of the Spanish claim to and occupation of Guam. Here, a complex neurodegenerative disease-known locally as lytico-bodig and medically as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Parkinsonism-dementia complex (ALS/PDC)-reached hyperendemic proportions in the mid-twentieth century but then declined and is now disappearing. A tau-dominated polyproteinopathy, clinical phenotypes included amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or lytico), atypical parkinsonism with dementia (P-D or bodig), and dementia alone. A plausible etiology for lytico-bodig is consumption of flour derived from the incompletely detoxified seed of Cycas micronesica (fadang in Chamorro; Federico in Spanish), a poisonous gymnosperm that survives climatic extremes that can affect the island. Traditional methods for safe consumption appear to have been lost over the course of time since governors Francisco de Villalobos (1796-1862) and Felipe de la Corte (1855-1866) proposed banning consumption in view of its acute toxic effects. A death certificate issued in 1823 might suggest ALS/PDC in people dying with disability or impedidos, and premature aging and a short life was linked to food use of fadang in the mid-1850s (Guam Vital Statistics Report, 1823). During the Japanese occupation of Guam (1941-1944), Chamorro people took refuge in the jungle for months, where they relied on insufficiently processed fadang as a staple food. After World War II, traditional foods and medicines were subsequently replaced as islanders rapidly acculturated to North American life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - John C Steele
- Resident Neurologist, Micronesia and Guam (1972-2014)
| | - Valerie S Palmer
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Peter S Spencer
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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13
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Spencer PS, Kisby GE. Role of Hydrazine-Related Chemicals in Cancer and Neurodegenerative Disease. Chem Res Toxicol 2021; 34:1953-1969. [PMID: 34379394 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.1c00150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hydrazine-related chemicals (HRCs) with carcinogenic and neurotoxic potential are found in certain mushrooms and plants used for food and in products employed in various industries, including aerospace. Their propensity to induce DNA damage (mostly O6-, N7- and 8-oxo-guanine lesions) resulting in multiple downstream effects is linked with both cancer and neurological disease. For cycling cells, unrepaired DNA damage leads to mutation and uncontrolled mitosis. By contrast, postmitotic neurons attempt to re-enter the cell cycle but undergo apoptosis or nonapoptotic cell death. Biomarkers of exposure to HRCs can be used to explore whether these substances are risk factors for sporadic amyotrophic laterals sclerosis and other noninherited neurodegenerative diseases, which is the focus of this paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter S Spencer
- Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239, United States
| | - Glen E Kisby
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific Northwest, Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, Oregon 97355, United States
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14
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Lagrange E, Vernoux JP, Reis J, Palmer V, Camu W, Spencer PS. An amyotrophic lateral sclerosis hot spot in the French Alps associated with genotoxic fungi. J Neurol Sci 2021; 427:117558. [PMID: 34216974 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2021.117558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Between 1990 and 2018, 14 cases of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) were diagnosed in residents of, and in visitors with second homes to, a mountainous hamlet in the French Alps. Systematic investigation revealed a socio-professional network that connected ALS cases. Genetic risk factors for ALS were excluded. Several known environmental factors were scrutinized and eliminated, notably lead and other chemical contaminants in soil, water or home-grown vegetation used for food, radon and electromagnetic fields. Some lifestyle-related behavioral risk factors were identified: Prior to clinical onset of motor neuron disease, some patients had a high degree of athleticism and smoked tobacco. Recent investigations on site, based on a new hypothesis, showed that all patients had ingested wild mushrooms, notably poisonous False Morels. Half of the ALS cohort reported acute illness following Gyromitra gigas mushroom consumption. This finding supports the hypothesis that genotoxins of fungal origin may induce motor neuron degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Lagrange
- Department of Neurology, Reference Center of Neuromuscular Disease and ALS consultations, Grenoble University Hospital, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - J P Vernoux
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, ABTE, 14000 Caen, France
| | - J Reis
- Department of Neurology, University of Strasbourg, University Hospital of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France; Association RISE, 3, rue du Loir, 67205 Oberhausbergen, France
| | - V Palmer
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA
| | - W Camu
- ALS Reference Center, Montpellier University Hospital and University of Montpellier, Inserm UMR1051, 34000 Montpellier, France
| | - P S Spencer
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA; Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA.
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15
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Rana I, Rieswijk L, Steinmaus C, Zhang L. Formaldehyde and Brain Disorders: A Meta-Analysis and Bioinformatics Approach. Neurotox Res 2021; 39:924-948. [PMID: 33400181 PMCID: PMC8102312 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-020-00320-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
While there is significant investigation and investment in brain and neurodegenerative disease research, current understanding of the etiologies of illnesses like Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and brain cancer remains limited. Environmental exposure to the pollutant formaldehyde, an emerging neurotoxin widely used in industry, is suspected to play a critical role in mediating these disorders, although findings are limited and inconsistent. Focusing on highly exposed groups, we performed a meta-analysis of human epidemiological studies of formaldehyde and neurodegenerative disease (N = 19) or brain tumors (N = 12). To assess the biological plausibility of observed associations, we then conducted a bioinformatics analysis using WikiPathways and the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database and identified candidate genes and pathways that may be related to these interactions. We reported the meta-relative risk (meta-RR) of ALS following high exposures to formaldehyde was increased by 78% (meta-RR = 1.78, 95% confidence interval, CI 1.20-2.65). Similarly, the meta-RR for brain cancer was increased by 71% (meta-RR = 1.71; 95% CI 1.07-2.73) among highly exposed individuals. Multiple sensitivity analyses did not reveal sources of heterogeneity or bias. Our bioinformatics analysis revealed that the oxidative stress genes superoxide dismutase (SOD1, SOD2) and the pro-inflammatory marker tumor necrosis factor (TNF) were identified as the top relevant genes, and the folate metabolism, vitamin B12 metabolism, and the ALS pathways were highly affected by formaldehyde and related to the most brain diseases of interest. Further inquiry revealed the two metabolic pathways are also intimately tied with the formaldehyde cycle. Overall, our bioinformatics analysis supports the link of formaldehyde exposure to ALS or brain tumor reported from our meta-analysis. This new multifactorial approach enabled us to both interrogate the robustness of the epidemiological data and identify genes and pathways that may be involved in these interactions, ultimately lending strong evidence and potential biological plausibility for the association between formaldehyde exposure and brain disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iemaan Rana
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Linda Rieswijk
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Institute of Data Science, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Craig Steinmaus
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Luoping Zhang
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA.
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16
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Spencer PS, Kisby GE. Commentary on Singh et al. (2020) Postzygotic Somatic Mutations in the Human Brain Expand the Threshold-Liability Model of Schizophrenia. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:653624. [PMID: 34421665 PMCID: PMC8378904 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.653624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Peter S Spencer
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, and Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Glen E Kisby
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific Northwest, Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, OR, United States
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17
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Tesauro M, Bruschi M, Filippini T, D'Alfonso S, Mazzini L, Corrado L, Consonni M, Vinceti M, Fusi P, Urani C. Metal(loid)s role in the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Environmental, epidemiological, and genetic data. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 192:110292. [PMID: 33027627 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.110292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder of the motor system. The etiology is still unknown and the pathogenesis remains unclear. ALS is familial in the 10% of cases with a Mendelian pattern of inheritance. In the remaining sporadic cases, a multifactorial origin is supposed in which several predisposing genes interact with environmental factors. The etiological role of environmental factors, such as pesticides, exposure to electromagnetic fields, and metals has been frequently investigated, with controversial findings. Studies in the past two decades have highlighted possible roles of metals, and ionic homeostasis dysregulation has been proposed as the main trigger to motor-neuron degeneration. This study aims at evaluating the possible role of environmental factors in etiopathogenesis of ALS, with a particular attention on metal contamination, focusing on the industrial Briga area in the province of Novara (Piedmont region, North Italy), characterized by: i) a higher incidence of sporadic ALS (sALS) in comparison with the entire province, and ii) the reported environmental pollution. Environmental data from surface, ground and discharge waters, and from soils were collected and specifically analyzed for metal content. Considering the significance of genetic mechanisms in ALS, a characterization for the main ALS genes has been performed to evaluate the genetic contribution for the sALS patients living in the area of study. The main findings of this study are the demonstration that in the Briga area the most common metal contaminants are Cu, Zn, Cr, Ni (widely used in tip-plating processes), that are above law limits in surface waters, discharge waters, and soil. In addition, other metals and metalloids, such as Cd, Pb, Mn, and As show a severe contamination in the same area. Results of genetic analyses show that sALS patients in the Briga area do not carry recurrent mutations or an excess of mutations in the four main ALS causative genes (SOD1, TARDBP, FUS, C9ORF72) and for ATXN2 CAG repeat locus. This study supports the hypothesis that the higher incidence of sALS in Briga area may be related to environmental metal(loid)s contamination, along with other environmental factors. Further studies, implementing analysis of genetic polymorphisms, as well as investigation with long term follow-up, may yield to key aspects into the etiology of ALS. The interplay between different approaches (environmental, chemical, epidemiological, genetic) of our work provides new insights and methodology to the comprehension of the disease etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Tesauro
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Via C. Pascal, 36, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | - Maurizio Bruschi
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Milano - Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza, 1, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Tommaso Filippini
- CREAGEN-Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi, 287, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Sandra D'Alfonso
- Department of Health Sciences, CAAD, UPO University, Via Solaroli, 17, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Letizia Mazzini
- ALS Centre Department of Neurology, Maggiore della Carità University Hospital, Corso Mazzini, 18, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Lucia Corrado
- Department of Health Sciences, CAAD, UPO University, Via Solaroli, 17, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Michela Consonni
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Via C. Pascal, 36, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Vinceti
- CREAGEN-Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi, 287, 41125, Modena, Italy; Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, 715 Albany Street, MA 02118, USA
| | - Paola Fusi
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza, 2, 20126, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Urani
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Milano - Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza, 1, 20133, Milan, Italy.
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18
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Western Pacific ALS-PDC: Evidence implicating cycad genotoxins. J Neurol Sci 2020; 419:117185. [PMID: 33190068 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2020.117185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Parkinsonism-Dementia Complex (ALS-PDC) is a disappearing neurodegenerative disorder of apparent environmental origin formerly hyperendemic among Chamorros of Guam-USA, Japanese residents of the Kii Peninsula, Honshu Island, Japan and Auyu-Jakai linguistic groups of Papua-Indonesia on the island of New Guinea. The most plausible etiology is exposure to genotoxins in seed of neurotoxic cycad plants formerly used for food and/or medicine. Primary suspicion falls on methylazoxymethanol (MAM), the aglycone of cycasin and on the non-protein amino acid β-N-methylamino-L-alanine, both of which are metabolized to formaldehyde. Human and animal studies suggest: (a) exposures occurred early in life and sometimes during late fetal brain development, (b) clinical expression of neurodegenerative disease appeared years or decades later, and (c) pathological changes in various tissues indicate the disease was not confined to the CNS. Experimental evidence points to toxic molecular mechanisms involving DNA damage, epigenetic changes, transcriptional mutagenesis, neuronal cell-cycle reactivation and perturbation of the ubiquitin-proteasome system that led to polyproteinopathy and culminated in neuronal degeneration. Lessons learned from research on ALS-PDC include: (a) familial disease may reflect common toxic exposures across generations, (b) primary disease prevention follows cessation of exposure to culpable environmental triggers; and (c) disease latency provides a prolonged period during which to intervene therapeutically. Exposure to genotoxic chemicals ("slow toxins") in the early stages of life should be considered in the search for the etiology of ALS-PDC-related neurodegenerative disorders, including sporadic forms of ALS, progressive supranuclear palsy and Alzheimer's disease.
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19
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Pizzamiglio L, Focchi E, Antonucci F. ATM Protein Kinase: Old and New Implications in Neuronal Pathways and Brain Circuitry. Cells 2020; 9:E1969. [PMID: 32858941 PMCID: PMC7564642 DOI: 10.3390/cells9091969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite that the human autosomal recessive disease ataxia telangiectasia (A-T) is a rare pathology, interest in the function of ataxia-telangiectasia mutated protein (ATM) is extensive. From a clinical point of view, the role of ATM in the central nervous system (CNS) is the most impacting, as motor disability is the predominant symptom affecting A-T patients. Coherently, spino-cerebellar neurodegeneration is the principal hallmark of A-T and other CNS regions such as dentate and olivary nuclei and brain stem are implicated in A-T pathophysiology. Recently, several preclinical studies also highlighted the involvement of ATM in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus, thus extending A-T symptomatology to new brain areas and pathways. Here, we review old and recent evidence that largely demonstrates not only the historical ATM account in DNA damage response and cell cycle regulation, but the multiple pathways through which ATM controls oxidative stress homeostasis, insulin signalling pathways, epigenetic regulation, synaptic transmission, and excitatory-inhibitory balance. We also summarise recent evidence on ATM implication in neurological and cognitive diseases beyond A-T, bringing out ATM as new pathological substrate and potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Pizzamiglio
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology (IPMC), Université Côte d’Azur (UCA), CNRS UMR7275, 06560 Valbonne-Sophia Antipolis, France;
| | - Elisa Focchi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (BIOMETRA), University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy;
| | - Flavia Antonucci
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (BIOMETRA), University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy;
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20
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Lagrange E, Vernoux JP. Warning on False or True Morels and Button Mushrooms with Potential Toxicity Linked to Hydrazinic Toxins: An Update. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12080482. [PMID: 32751277 PMCID: PMC7472412 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12080482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, consumption of the gyromitrin-containing neurotoxic mushroom Gyromitra sp. (false morel), as gourmet food was hypothesized to play a role in sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis genesis. The present review analyses recent data on edibility and toxicity of false and true morels and Agaricus spp. Controversy about the toxic status of Gyromitra esculenta was due to variable toxin susceptibility within consumers. We suggest that Verpa bohemica, another false morel, is also inedible. We found a temporary neurological syndrome (NS) with cerebellar signs associated with high consumption of fresh or dried true morels Morchella sp. After ingestion of crude or poorly cooked fresh or dried morels, a gastrointestinal “haemolytic” syndrome was also observed. Agaritine, a water soluble hydrazinic toxin closely related to gyromitrin is present along with metabolites including diazonium ions and free radicals, in Agaricus spp. and A. bisporus, the button mushroom, and in mice after ingestion. It is a potential weak carcinogen in mice, but although no data are available for humans, a lifetime low cumulative extra cancer risk in humans can be estimated to be about 10−5. To conclude, a safety measure is to avoid consuming any true morels or button mushrooms when crude or poorly cooked, fresh or dried.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmeline Lagrange
- EFSN, Pôle de Neurologie, CHUGA, Grenoble University Hospital, 38000 Grenoble, France;
| | - Jean-Paul Vernoux
- Unité de Recherche Aliments Bioprocédés Toxicologie Environnements (ABTE) EA 4651, Normandie University, UNICAEN, 14000 Caen, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-680-144-739
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21
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Spencer PS, Palmer VS, Kihira T, Yoshida S, Reis J, Yabushita M, Yase Y. Kampō medicine and Muro disease (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Parkinsonism-Dementia Complex). eNeurologicalSci 2020; 18:100230. [PMID: 32090178 PMCID: PMC7026288 DOI: 10.1016/j.ensci.2020.100230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Western Pacific Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Parkinsonism-dementia Complex (ALS/PDC) is a disappearing neurodegenerative disease in three former high-incidence foci of Guam-USA, Papua-Indonesia and Kii Peninsula, Honshu Island, Japan. The latter includes two distinct ALS/PDC-affected regions (Hohara and Kozagawa), where the disorder is known as Muro disease. In Hohara, oral exposure to plant (cycad) neurotoxins used in traditional medical practice has been linked previously to Muro disease. We report new observations that link Kampō medicine to Muro disease in the southern Kozagawa focus. Oral exposure to cycad seed toxins is associated with all three foci of Western Pacific ALS/PDC.
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22
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Lee A, Arachchige BJ, Reed S, Henderson R, Aylward J, McCombe PA. Plasma from some patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis exhibits elevated formaldehyde levels. J Neurol Sci 2020; 409:116589. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2019.116589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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23
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A Single Laboratory Validation for the Analysis of Underivatized β-N-Methylamino-L-Alanine (BMAA). Neurotox Res 2019; 39:49-71. [PMID: 31823228 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-019-00137-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
β-N-Methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) is a non-protein amino acid produced by cyanobacteria that can accumulate in ecosystems and food webs. Human exposure to cyanobacterial and algal blooms may be a risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Analytical chemists have struggled to find reliable methods for BMAA analysis in complex sample matrices. Analysis of BMAA is complicated by at least 3 naturally occurring isomers: N-(2-aminoethyl)glycine (AEG), 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB), and β-aminomethyl-L-alanine (BAMA). More than 350 publications have reported detection and quantification of BMAA and its isomers, but varying results have led to controversy in the literature. The objective of this study was to perform a single laboratory validation (SLV) of a frequently published method for BMAA analysis using a ZIC-HILIC column. We investigated the selectivity, linearity, accuracy, precision, and sensitivity of the method and our data show that this HILIC method fails many of the criteria for a validated method. The method fails the criterion for selectivity as the chromatography does not separate BMAA from its isomer BAMA. Sensitivity of the method greatly decreased over the experimental period and it demonstrated a higher limit of detection (LOD) (7.5 pg on column) and a higher lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) (30 pg on column) than other published validated methods. The method demonstrated poor precision of repeated injections of standards of BMAA with % relative standard deviation (%RSD) values that ranged from 37 to 107% while HorRat values for BMAA had a fail rate of 80% and BAMA had a fail rate of 73%. No HorRat values between 0.5 and 2 were found for repeated injections of standards of AEG and DAB. Recovery of 13C3,15N2-BMAA in a cyanobacterial matrix was < 10% in experiments and we were also unable to accurately detect other protein amino acids including methionine, cysteine, or alanine, indicating matrix effects. The results of this study demonstrate that the ZIC-HILIC column is not fit for purpose for the analysis of BMAA in cyanobacterial matrices and further provides explanations for the high level of negative results reported by researchers using this method.
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Reis J, Román GC, Giroud M, Palmer VS, Spencer PS. Medical management, prevention and mitigation of environmental risks factors in Neurology. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2019; 175:698-704. [PMID: 31648732 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2019.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2019] [Revised: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The human environment and exposures arising therefrom are major contributors to neurological disorders ranging from stroke to neurodegenerative diseases. Reduction of exposure to environmental risk factors, with the goal of disease prevention or control, is addressed at the individual as well as the societal level and in recognition of differential subject vulnerability. We examine some practical solutions in high-income countries that may allow a better adaptation to environmental risks and reduce their adverse impact on the nervous system. We consider the citizen's role in reducing unhealthy exposures and explore new approaches to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Reis
- Department of neurology, university of Strasbourg, university hospital of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France; Association RISE, 3, rue du Loir, 67205 Oberhausbergen, France.
| | - G C Román
- Department of neurology, methodist neurological institute and research institute, Houston methodist hospital, Houston, TX, USA; Weill Cornell medical college, Cornell university, New York, NY, USA
| | - M Giroud
- Dijon stroke registry, EA 7460, university of Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Inserm, santé publique France, university hospital of Dijon, Dijon, France
| | - V S Palmer
- Department of neurology, school of medicine, Oregon health & science university, Portland, OR, USA
| | - P S Spencer
- Department of neurology, school of medicine, Oregon health & science university, Portland, OR, USA
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Reis J, Spencer PS. Decision-making under uncertainty in environmental health policy: new approaches. Environ Health Prev Med 2019; 24:57. [PMID: 31521129 PMCID: PMC6745059 DOI: 10.1186/s12199-019-0813-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Decision-making in environmental health policy is a complex procedure even in well-known conditions. Thus, in the case of uncertainty, decision-making becomes a hurdle race. We address scientific uncertainty, methods to reduce uncertainty, biomedical doubt and science communication, and the role of stakeholders, activists, lobbies and media that together influence policy decisions. We also consider the major responsibility and role of the medico-scientific community in this process. This community can and should teach the principle of scientific uncertainty to all stakeholders, advise policy-makers and underline the ethical issues, considering that our brains are not only the deposit of our humanity but also the route to environmental health and societal harmony.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques Reis
- Faculté de Médecine, University of Strasbourg, 4 Rue Kirschleger, 67000, Strasbourg, France.
- Association RISE, 3 rue du loir, 67205, Oberhausbergen, France.
| | - Peter S Spencer
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences and School of Medicine (Neurology), Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
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