Endocrine Aspects of Environmental "Obesogen" Pollutants

Sex-specific associations between the environmental exposures and low-grade inflammation and increased blood pressure in young, healthy subjects

Long-term exposures to environmental factors including airborne as well as noise pollutants, are associated with cardiovascular risk. However, the influence of environmental pollution on the young population is controversial. Accordingly, we aimed to investigate the relationships between long-term exposures to different environmental factors and major cardiovascular and inflammatory parameters and biomarkers in young, healthy subjects. Representative sample of permanent residents of two cities differing in air and noise pollution levels, aged 15-21 years, were recruited. Krakow and Lublin, both located in southern Poland, were chosen in relation to their similarities in demographic and geopolitical characteristics, but differences in air pollution (higher in Krakow) and noise parameters (higher in Lublin). A total of 576 subjects were studied: 292 in Krakow and 284 in Lublin. All subjects underwent health questionnaire, blood pressure measurements and biomarker determinations. Inflammatory biomarkers, such as CRP, hs-CRP, fibrinogen as well as homocysteine were all significantly higher in subjects living in Krakow as opposed to subjects living in Lublin (for hsCRP: 0.52 (0.32-0.98) mg/l vs. 0.35 (0.22-0.67) mg/l; p < 0.001). Increased inflammatory biomarker levels were observed in Krakow in both male and female young adults. Interestingly, significant differences were observed in blood pressure between male and female subjects. Males from Krakow had significantly higher mean systolic blood pressure (127.7 ± 10.4 mm/Hg vs. 122.4 ± 13.0 mm/Hg; p = 0.001), pulse pressure (58.7 ± 8.9 mm/Hg vs. 51.4 ± 12.3 mm/Hg; p < 0.001) and lower heart rate (p < 0.001) as compared to males living in Lublin. This was not observed in young adult females. Long-term exposure to environmental factors related to the place of residence can significantly influence inflammatory and cardiovascular parameters, even in young individuals. Interestingly, among otherwise healthy young adults, blood pressure differences exhibited significant variations based on biological sex.

[Synthetic phenolic compounds perturb lipid metabolism and induce obesogenic effects]

Given continuous development in society and the economy, obesity has become a global epidemic, arousing great concern. In addition to genetic and dietary factors, exposure to environmental chemicals is associated with the occurrence and development of obesity. Current research has indicated that some chemicals with endocrine-disrupting effects can affect lipid metabolism in vivo, causing elevated lipid storage. These chemicals are called "environmental obesogens". Synthetic phenolic compounds (SPCs) are widely used in industrial and daily products, such as plastic products, disinfectants, pesticides, food additives, and so on. The exposure routes of SPCs to the human body may include food and water consumption, direct skin contact, etc. Their unintended exposure could cause harmful effects on human health. As a type of endocrine disruptor, SPCs interfere with adipogenesis and lipid metabolism, exhibiting the characteristics of environmental obesogens. Because SPCs have similar phenolic structures, gathering information on their influences on lipid metabolism would be helpful to understand their structure-related effects. In this review, three commonly used research methods for screening environmental obesogens, including in vitro testing for molecular interactions, cell adipogenic differentiation models, and in vivo studies on lipid metabolism, are summarized, and the advantages and disadvantages of these methods are compared and discussed. Based on both in vitro and in vivo data, three types of SPCs, including bisphenol A (BPA) and its analogues, alkylphenols (APs), and synthetic phenolic antioxidants (SPAs), are systematically discussed in terms of their ability to disrupt adipogenesis and lipid metabolism by focusing on adipose and hepatic tissues, among others. Common findings on the effects of these SPCs on adipocyte differentiation, lipid storage, hepatic lipid accumulation, and liver steatosis are described. The underlying toxicological mechanisms are also discussed from the aspects of nuclear receptor transactivation, inflammation and oxidative stress regulation, intestinal microenvironment alteration, epigenetic modification, and some other signaling pathways. Future research to increase public knowledge on the obesogenic effects of emerging chemicals of concern is encouraged.

From a toxin to an obesogen: a review of potential obesogenic roles of acrylamide with a mechanistic approach

Obesity and obesity-related disorders such as cancer, type 2 diabetes, and fatty liver have become a global health problem. It is well known that the primary cause of obesity is positive energy balance. In addition, obesity is the consequence of complex gene and environment interactions that result in excess calorie intake being stored as fat. However, it has been revealed that there are other factors contributing to the worsening of obesity. The presence of nontraditional risk factors, such as environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals, has recently been associated with obesity and comorbidities caused by obesity. The aim of this review was to examine the evidence and potential mechanisms for acrylamide having endocrine-disrupting properties contributing to obesity and obesity-related comorbidities. Recent studies have suggested that exposure to environmental endocrine-disrupting obesogens may be a risk factor contributing to the current obesity epidemic, and that one of these obesogens is acrylamide, an environmental and industrial compound produced by food processing, particularly the processing of foods such as potato chips, and coffee. In addition to the known harmful effects of acrylamide in humans and experimental animals, such as neurotoxicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity, acrylamide also has an obesogenic effect. It has been shown in the literature to a limited extent that acrylamide may disrupt energy metabolism, lipid metabolism, adipogenesis, adipocyte differentiation, and various signaling pathways, and may exacerbate the disturbances in metabolic and biochemical parameters observed as a result of obesity. Acrylamide exerts its main potential obesogenic effects through body weight increase, worsening of the levels of obesity-related blood biomarkers, and induction of adipocyte differentiation and adipogenesis. Additional mechanisms may be discovered. Further experimental studies and prospective cohorts are needed, both to supplement existing knowledge about acrylamide and its effects, and to clarify its established relationship with obesity and its comorbidities.

Nonylphenol Exposure-Induced Oocyte Quality Deterioration Could be Reversed by Boric Acid Supplementation in Rats

In this study, we reported boric acid's protective effects on the quality of nonylphenol (NP)-exposed oocytes. Female rats were classified into 4 groups: control, boric acid, NP, and NP+boric acid. Histopathological studies and immunohistochemical analysis of anti-müllerian hormone (AMH), mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), Sirtuin1 (SIRT1), stem cell factor (SCF) studies were done. The comet assay technique was utilized for DNA damage. The ELISA method was used to determine the concentrations of oxidative stress indicators (SOD, CAT, and MDA), ovarian hormone (INH-B), and inflammation indicators (IL-6 and TNF-α). Boric acid significantly reduced the histopathological alterations and nearly preserved the ovarian reserve. With the restoration of AMH and SCF, boric acid significantly improved the ovarian injury. It downregulated SIRT1 and upregulated the mTOR signaling pathway. It provided DNA damage protection. Ovarian SOD, CAT levels were decreased by boric acid. Boric acid co-administration significantly reduced NP's MDA, IL-6, and TNF-activities. This results imply that boric acid has a protective role in ovarian tissue against NP-mediated infertility.

Causes of obesity: a review

Obesity research is advancing swiftly, but the increase in obesity prevalence is faster. Over the past three decades, researchers have found that biopsychosocial factors determine weight gain much more than personal choices and responsibility. Various genes have found to predispose people to obesity by interacting with our obesogenic environment. In this review, we discuss the impact of physical inactivity, excessive caloric intake, intrauterine environment, postnatal influences, insufficient sleep, drugs, medical conditions, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, psychosocial stress, endocrine disrupting chemicals and the gastrointestinal microbiome, on the occurrence of obesity.

The role of environmental pollutants in body composition: Systematic review and meta-analysis

The effects of environmental pollution are associated with higher rates of mortality, morbidity, and years of life lost. It is known that these produce alterations in the human body, including changes in body composition. Research has focused on the association between contaminants and BMI through cross-sectional studies. The objective of this study was to synthesize the evidence for the association of pollutants on different measures of body composition. The PECOS strategy was defined, in which "P": participants of any age, sex, or ethnicity, "E": a higher level of environmental pollution, "C": a lower level of environmental pollution, "O": body composition measurements and "S": longitudinal studies. Studies from the following databases were included: MEDLINE, EMBASE, SciELO, LILACS, Scopus, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, and gray literature from inception to January 2023.3069 studies were identified, 18 were included in the systematic review, and 13 in the meta-analysis. These studies included 8.563 people, 47 environmental contaminants, and 16 measures of body composition. The meta-analysis by subgroup found that the association between dioxins, furans, PCBs, and waist circumference was β = 1.0 (95% CI: 0.85 to 1.16; I²: 95%), and the sum of four skinfolds β = 1.02 (95% CI: 0.88 to 1.16; I²: 24%). The association between pesticides and waist circumference was β = 1.00 (95% CI: 0.68 to 1.32; I²: 98%), and the fat mass was β = 0.99 (95% CI: 0.17 to 1.81; I²: 94%). Pollutants, especially endocrine-disrupting chemicals, among which dioxins, furans, PCBs, and pesticides, are associated with changes in body composition, mainly with waist circumference and the sum of four skinfolds.

Associations of Gestational Perfluoroalkyl Substances Exposure with Early Childhood BMI z-Scores and Risk of Overweight/Obesity: Results from the ECHO Cohorts

BACKGROUND

Gestational per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure may be associated with adiposity and increased risk of obesity among children and adolescents. However, results from epidemiological studies evaluating these associations are inconsistent.

OBJECTIVES

We estimated the associations of pregnancy PFAS concentrations with child body mass index (BMI) z -scores and risk of overweight/obesity in eight U.S. cohorts.

METHODS

We used data from 1,391 mother-child pairs who enrolled in eight Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) cohorts (enrolled: 1999-2019). We quantified concentrations of seven PFAS in maternal plasma or serum in pregnancy. We measured child weight and height between the ages of 2 and 5 y and calculated age- and sex-specific BMI z -scores; 19.6% children had more than one BMI measurement. We estimated covariate-adjusted associations of individual PFAS and their mixture with child BMI z -scores and risk of overweight/obesity using linear mixed models, modified Poisson regression models, and Bayesian approaches for mixtures. We explored whether child sex modified these associations.

RESULTS

We observed a pattern of subtle positive associations of PFAS concentrations in pregnancy with BMI z -scores and risk of overweight/obesity. For instance, each doubling in perfluorohexane sulfonic acid concentrations was associated with higher BMI z -scores (β = 0.07 ; 95% CI: 0.01, 0.12). Each doubling in perfluroundecanoic acid [relative risk  ( RR ) = 1.10 ; 95% CI: 1.04, 1.16] and N -methyl perfluorooctane sulfonamido acetic acid (RR = 1.06 ; 95% CI: 1.00, 1.12) was associated with increased risk of overweight/obesity, with some evidence of a monotonic dose-response relation. We observed weaker and more imprecise associations of the PFAS mixture with BMI or risk of overweight/obesity. Associations did not differ by child sex.

DISCUSSION

In eight U.S.-based prospective cohorts, gestational exposure to higher levels of PFAS were associated with slightly higher childhood BMI z -score and risk of overweight or obesity. Future studies should examine associations of gestational exposure to PFAS with adiposity and related cardiometabolic consequences in older children. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP11545.

Application of In Vitro Models for Studying the Mechanisms Underlying the Obesogenic Action of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) as Food Contaminants-A Review

Obesogenic endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) belong to the group of environmental contaminants, which can adversely affect human health. A growing body of evidence supports that chronic exposure to EDCs can contribute to a rapid increase in obesity among adults and children, especially in wealthy industrialized countries with a high production of widely used industrial chemicals such as plasticizers (bisphenols and phthalates), parabens, flame retardants, and pesticides. The main source of human exposure to obesogenic EDCs is through diet, particularly with the consumption of contaminated food such as meat, fish, fruit, vegetables, milk, and dairy products. EDCs can promote obesity by stimulating adipo- and lipogenesis of target cells such as adipocytes and hepatocytes, disrupting glucose metabolism and insulin secretion, and impacting hormonal appetite/satiety regulation. In vitro models still play an essential role in investigating potential environmental obesogens. The review aimed to provide information on currently available two-dimensional (2D) in vitro animal and human cell models applied for studying the mechanisms of obesogenic action of various industrial chemicals such as food contaminants. The advantages and limitations of in vitro models representing the crucial endocrine tissue (adipose tissue) and organs (liver and pancreas) involved in the etiology of obesity and metabolic diseases, which are applied to evaluate the effects of obesogenic EDCs and their disruption activity, were thoroughly and critically discussed.

Associations of circulating levels of phthalate metabolites with cytokines and acute phase reactants in a Spanish human cohort

The associations between human phthalate exposure and the onset of chronic diseases with an immunological component (e.g., metabolic syndrome, cancer) remain unclear, partly due to the uncertainties in the underlying mechanisms. This study investigates cross-sectional associations of the concentrations of 10 phthalate metabolites with 19 cytokines and acute phase proteins in 213 serum samples of Spanish adults. The associations were explored by Spearman's correlation, multivariable linear regression, and weighted quantile sum regression analyses. In the multivariable analyses, levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1 were positively associated with mono-n-butyl phthalate (fold-change per one IQR increase in phthalate levels, 95% Confidence Interval: 1.65, 1.45-1.88) and mono-iso-butyl phthalate (3.07, 2.39-3.95), mono-ethyl phthalate (2.05, 1.62-2.61), as well as categorized mono-iso-decyl and mono-benzyl phthalates. The same phthalates also were significantly associated with leptin, interleukin (IL)-18 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1. Moreover, the proinflammatory markers IL-1β, IL-17, IL-8, IL-6, IL-12, tumor necrosis factor, and lipopolysaccharide-binding protein showed positive and negative associations with, respectively, mono-(2-ethyl-hexyl) and mono-methyl phthalates. Finally, phthalate mixtures were positively associated with PAI-1, leptin, IL-18, IL-12, IL-8 and IL-1β. Despite the cross-sectional design limitation, these associations point to relevant subclinical immuno-inflammatory actions of these pollutants, warranting confirmation in future studies.

Perinatal exposure to the fungicide ketoconazole alters hypothalamic control of puberty in female rats

INTRODUCTION

Estrogenic endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as diethylstilbestrol (DES) are known to alter the timing of puberty onset and reproductive function in females. Accumulating evidence suggests that steroid synthesis inhibitors such as ketoconazole (KTZ) or phthalates may also affect female reproductive health, however their mode of action is poorly understood. Because hypothalamic activity is very sensitive to sex steroids, we aimed at determining whether and how EDCs with different mode of action can alter the hypothalamic transcriptome and GnRH release in female rats.

DESIGN

Female rats were exposed to KTZ or DES during perinatal (DES 3-6-12μg/kg.d; KTZ 3-6-12mg/kg.d), pubertal or adult periods (DES 3-12-48μg/kg.d; KTZ 3-12-48mg/kg.d).

RESULTS

Ex vivo study of GnRH pulsatility revealed that perinatal exposure to the highest doses of KTZ and DES delayed maturation of GnRH secretion before puberty, whereas pubertal or adult exposure had no effect on GnRH pulsatility. Hypothalamic transcriptome, studied by RNAsequencing in the preoptic area and in the mediobasal hypothalamus, was found to be very sensitive to perinatal exposure to all doses of KTZ before puberty with effects persisting until adulthood. Bioinformatic analysis with Ingenuity Pathway Analysis predicted "Creb signaling in Neurons" and "IGF-1 signaling" among the most downregulated pathways by all doses of KTZ and DES before puberty, and "PPARg" as a common upstream regulator driving gene expression changes. Deeper screening ofRNAseq datasets indicated that a high number of genes regulating the activity of the extrinsic GnRH pulse generator were consistently affected by all the doses of DES and KTZ before puberty. Several, including MKRN3, DNMT3 or Cbx7, showed similar alterations in expression at adulthood.

CONCLUSION

nRH secretion and the hypothalamic transcriptome are highly sensitive to perinatal exposure to both DES and KTZ. The identified pathways should be exploredfurther to identify biomarkers for future testing strategies for EDC identification and when enhancing the current standard information requirements in regulation.

Ozone modified hypothalamic signaling enhancing thermogenesis in the TDP-43A315T transgenic model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a devastating progressive neurodegenerative disease, has no effective treatment. Recent evidence supports a strong metabolic component in ALS pathogenesis. Indeed, metabolic abnormalities in ALS correlate to disease susceptibility and progression, raising additional therapeutic targets against ALS. Ozone (O₃), a natural bioactive molecule, has been shown to elicit beneficial effects to reduce metabolic disturbances and improved motor behavior in TDP-43^A315T mice. However, it is fundamental to determine the mechanism through which O₃ acts in ALS. To characterize the association between O₃ exposure and disease-associated weight loss in ALS, we assessed the mRNA and protein expression profile of molecular pathways with a main role in the regulation of the metabolic homeostasis on the hypothalamus and the brown adipose tissue (BAT) at the disease end-stage, in TDP-43^A315T mice compared to age-matched WT littermates. In addition, the impact of O₃ exposure on the faecal bacterial community diversity, by Illumina sequencing, and on the neuromuscular junctions (NMJs), by confocal imaging, were analysed. Our findings suggest the effectiveness of O₃ exposure to induce metabolic effects in the hypothalamus and BAT of TDP-43^A315T mice and could be a new complementary non-pharmacological approach for ALS therapy.

The challenge of weight loss maintenance in obesity: a review of the evidence on the best strategies available

Long-term weight loss maintenance represents a big challenge for the management of obesity. This narrative review aims to provide an overview of the main endocrine mechanisms involved in weight regain in subjects with obesity and to review the current evidence on the best lifestyle approaches, including diet and physical activity. Weight regain after weight loss occurs in about 50% of subjects with obesity in the absence of lifestyle changes. The primary endocrine mechanism responsible for weight regain involves the brain-gut axis, which encourages food intake and thus weight regain through the secretion and action of several gastrointestinal hormones, such as ghrelin, leptin and cholecystokinin. Several evidence reported changes of secretion of these hormones during weight loss and weight loss maintenance programs. Endurance training is the most effective physical activity to lose and keep weight loss; the association of endurance with resistance training is recommended for remodelling body shape.

Nonylphenol exposure-induced oocyte quality deterioration could be reversed by melatonin supplementation in mice

Nonylphenol (NP) belongs to the metabolites of commercial detergents, which acts as an environmental endocrine disruptor. NP is reported to have multiple toxicity including reproductive toxicity. In present study, we reported the protective effects of melatonin on the NP-exposed oocyte quality. We set up a mouse in vivo model of NP exposure (500 μg/L), by daily drinking and continued feeding for 4 weeks; and we gave a daily dose of melatonin (30 mg/kg) to the NP-exposed mice. Melatonin supplementation restores the development ability of oocytes exposed to NP, and this was due to the reduction of ROS level and DNA damage by melatonin. Melatonin could rescue aberrant mitochondria distribution, mitochondria membrane potential, which also was reflected by ATP content and mtDNA copy number. Moreover, melatonin could restore the RPS3 expression to ensure the ribosome function for protein synthesis, and reduced GRP78 protein level to protect against ER stress and ER distribution defects. We also found that vesicle protein Rab11 from Golgi apparatus was protected by melatonin at the spindle periphery of oocytes of NP-exposed mice, which further moderated LAMP2 for lysosome function. Our results indicate that melatonin protects oocytes from NP exposure through its effects on the reduction of oxidative stress and DNA damage, which might be through its amelioration on the organelles in mice.

An introduction to the sources, fate, occurrence and effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals released into the environment

Many classes of compounds are known or suspected to disrupt the endocrine system of vertebrate and invertebrate organisms. This review of the sources and fate of selected endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in the environment includes classes of compounds that are "legacy" contaminants, as well as contaminants of emerging concern. EDCs included for discussion are organochlorine compounds, halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons, brominated flame retardants, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, alkylphenols, phthalates, bisphenol A and analogues, pharmaceuticals, drugs of abuse and steroid hormones, personal care products, and organotins. An exhaustive survey of the fate of these contaminants in all environmental media (e.g., air, water, soil, biota, foods and beverages) is beyond the scope of this review, so the priority is to highlight the fate of EDCs in environmental media for which there is a clear link between exposure and endocrine effects in humans or in biota from other taxa. Where appropriate, linkages are also made between the fate of EDCs and regulatory limits such as environmental quality guidelines for water and sediments and total daily intake values for humans.

Association between dietary exposure to bisphenols and body mass index in Spanish schoolchildren

The increase in children obesity worldwide has been of particular concern in recent decades. Environmental factors have been proposed as contributors to obesity, and there is a growing concern over obesogens, environmental chemicals with potential obesity‐related endocrine‐disrupting properties. In this regard, bisphenol A (BPA) and its analogues are suspected to have obesogenic properties. Current document report on the activities of the fellow, undertaken during the fourth, 2020–2021 cycle of the EU‐FORA programme at the University of Granada, Institute of Nutrition and Food Science, in Spain. The work programme offered by the hosting site was related to the extrapolation of bisphenols exposure following the determination of these compounds in food frequently consumed by children and in their biological samples. The fellow has participated in the recruitment of the study population in the health centres. In addition, she has participated in the collection of the children biological samples, anthropometric measurements and dietary surveys and in the optimisation of the laboratory methodology for the extraction of bisphenols in biological samples. All these activities also provided the fellow an opportunity to develop her data science related skills, which will benefit her professional development. In addition, the fellow gained an overview of various topics related to food safety risk assessment by attending the EU‐FORA dedicated training modules.

Modifiable Host Factors for the Prevention and Treatment of COVID-19: Diet and Lifestyle/Diet and Lifestyle Factors in the Prevention of COVID-19

Many studies have shown that the immune system requires adequate nutrition to work at an optimal level. Not only do optimized nutritional strategies support the immune system, but they also reduce chronic inflammation. Nutritional supplements that are recommended for patients with critical illnesses are thought to also be effective for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients in the intensive care unit. Some studies have recommended fresh fruits and vegetables, soy, nuts, and antioxidants, such as omega-3 fatty acids, to improve immune system activity. Although nutritional status is considered to be an important prognostic factor for patients with COVID-19, there is to date no sufficient evidence that optimal nutritional therapies can be beneficial for these patients. Some have argued that the COVID-19 pandemic is a good opportunity to test the effectiveness of nutritional intervention for infectious diseases. Many researchers have suggested that testing the proposed nutritional approaches for infectious diseases in the context of a pandemic would be highly informative. The authors of other review papers concluded that it is important to have a diet based on fresh foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and healthy fats (i.e., olive oil and fish oil), and to limit the intake of sugary drinks as well as high-calorie and high-salt foods. In this review, we discuss the clinical significance of functional food ingredients as complementary therapies potentially beneficial for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19. We believe that our review will be helpful to plan and deploy future studies to conclude these potentials against COVID-19, but also to new infectious diseases that may arise in the future.

Endocrine Disruptors and Obesity: an Overview

Obesity is a growing pandemic. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals are widespread in the environment. In this perspective, the authors examine the issue related to the exposure to several chemicals with endocrine-disrupting properties as promoting factors to obesity. Data show that Phthalates, Bisphenol compounds, Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), solvents, and personal care products can modify metabolic properties in a dose-response and sex-specific manner. Phthalates and bisphenol compounds increase body mass index, waist circumference, waist to height ratio, and the sum of skinfold thicknesses in women and not in men. Low-dose exposure to Persistent Organic Pollutants is strongly associated with increased body mass index in men and decreased this parameter in women. The mechanism through which these compounds act on anthropometric parameters is not entirely understood. Several studies suggest a possible interference in gonadotropin secretion and the thyroid axis. These inspire a decrease of both total and free testosterone levels in men and FT3 and FT4 levels in women, particularly after a pregnancy. The impact of endocrine disruptor chemicals on adipose tissue inflammation and future cardio-metabolic disorders remains to be elucidated. Therefore, studies involving both healthy and obese individuals are needed to unambiguously confirm results from in vitro and animal models.

The Role of Persistent Organic Pollutants in Obesity: A Review of Laboratory and Epidemiological Studies

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are considered as potential obesogens that may affect adipose tissue development and functioning, thus promoting obesity. However, various POPs may have different mechanisms of action. The objective of the present review is to discuss the key mechanisms linking exposure to POPs to adipose tissue dysfunction and obesity. Laboratory data clearly demonstrate that the mechanisms associated with the interference of exposure to POPs with obesity include: (a) dysregulation of adipogenesis regulators (PPARγ and C/EBPα); (b) affinity and binding to nuclear receptors; (c) epigenetic effects; and/or (d) proinflammatory activity. Although in vivo data are generally corroborative of the in vitro results, studies in living organisms have shown that the impact of POPs on adipogenesis is affected by biological factors such as sex, age, and period of exposure. Epidemiological data demonstrate a significant association between exposure to POPs and obesity and obesity-associated metabolic disturbances (e.g., type 2 diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome), although the existing data are considered insufficient. In conclusion, both laboratory and epidemiological data underline the significant role of POPs as environmental obesogens. However, further studies are required to better characterize both the mechanisms and the dose/concentration-response effects of exposure to POPs in the development of obesity and other metabolic diseases.

An ancestral nuclear receptor couple, PPAR-RXR, is exploited by organotins

Environmental chemicals have been reported to greatly disturb the endocrine and metabolic systems of multiple animal species. A recent example involves the exploitation of the nuclear receptor (NR) heterodimeric pair composed by PPAR/RXR (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor/retinoid X receptor), which shows lipid perturbation in mammalian species. While gene orthologues of both of these receptors have been described outside vertebrates, no functional characterization of PPAR has been carried in protostome lineages. We provide the first functional analysis of PPAR in Patella sp. (Mollusca), using model obesogens such as tributyltin (TBT), triphenyltin (TPT), and proposed natural ligands (fatty acid molecules). To gain further insights, we used site-directed mutagenesis to PPAR and replaced the tyrosine 277 by a cysteine (the human homologous amino acid and TBT anchor residue) and an alanine. Additionally, we explored the alterations in the fatty acid profiles after an exposure to the model obesogen TBT, in vivo. Our results show that TBT and TPT behave as an antagonist of Patella sp. PPAR/RXR and that the tyrosine 277 is important, but not essential in the response to TBT. Overall, these results suggest a relation between the response of the mollusc PPAR-RXR to TBT and the lipid profile alterations reported at environmentally relevant concentrations. Our findings highlight the importance of comparative analysis between protostome and deuterostome lineages to decipher the differential impact of environmental chemicals.

Metabolic Disrupting Effects of Polychlorinated Biphenyls Revealed by Long-Term Temporal Variations of Lipids in Detritivorous Fish from the Rio de la Plata Basin

The long-term covariation (2002-2017) of lipids, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and sewage tracers was studied in the detritivorous fish (Prochilodus lineatus) and settling detritus from the Rio de la Plata. Fatty fish from polluted Buenos Aires area (BA) exhibited a significant decrease of muscle lipids (71 ± 12 to 29 ± 8.6% dry weight; p < 0.0001), triglycerides (94 to 85%, p < 0.001), and 18 carbon fatty acids (18C-FA: 59 ± 4.8 to 48 ± 1.4%; p < 0.01), reflecting a reduction of lipid accumulation, largely triglycerides enriched in 18C-FA, with a concomitant ∼20-times decline of PCBs (∼20 to >1 μg g^-1 dw). The 2017 individuals of the BA series converged with leaner and more pristine northern fish (N), which showed no significant temporal variation (20 ± 10% lipids, 67 ± 8.7% triglycerides, 41 ± 8.1% 18C-FA, and 0.22 ± 0.42 μg g^-1 dw PCB). In contrast, the fecal sterol tracer coprostanol remained abnormally higher in BA fish muscle with no significant temporal trend (120 ± 102 vs 6.6 ± 10 μg g^-1 dw or 4.4 ± 2.8 vs 0.63 ± 1.2% sterols at N). The same pattern was observed in BA settling detritus, i.e., a temporal decrease of PCBs with high, stable coprostanol concentrations denoting sustained sewage inputs, while northern detritus was enriched in plant sterols. This long-term covariation of lipids and PCBs in fish muscle from polluted BA converging with more pristine and homogeneous northern specimens while maintaining a sewage-derived diet provides rare field evidence of the declining effect of PCBs controlling the temporal variation of muscular lipids in fish.

Prenatal air pollution exposure to diesel exhaust induces cardiometabolic disorders in adulthood in a sex-specific manner

BACKGROUND

Results from observational and experimental studies indicate that exposure to air pollutants during gestation reduces birth weight, whereas little is known on potential cardiometabolic consequences for the offspring at adulthood.

OBJECTIVES

Our aim was to evaluate the long-term effects of gestational exposure to diesel engine exhaust (DE) on adult offspring phenotype in a rabbit model.

METHODS

The protocol was designed to mimic human exposure in large European cities. Females rabbits were exposed to diluted (1 mg/m³) DE (exposed, n = 9) or clean air (controls, n = 7), from 3 days after mating, 2 h/d and 5 d/wk in a nose-only inhalation system throughout gestation (gestation days 3-27). After birth and weaning, 72 offspring (47 exposed and 25 controls) were raised until adulthood (7.5 months) to evaluate their cardio-metabolic status, including the monitoring of body weight and food intake, fasting biochemistry, body composition (iDXA), cardiovascular parameters and glucose tolerance. After a metabolic challenge (high fat diet in males and gestation in females), animals were euthanized for postmortem phenotyping.

RESULTS

Sex-specific responses to maternal exposure were observed in adult offspring. Age-related increases in blood pressure (p = 0.058), glycaemia (p = 0.029), and perirenal fat mass (p = 0.026) as well as reductions in HDL-cholesterol (p = 0.025) and fat-to-body weight ratio (p = 0.011) were observed in exposed males, suggesting a metabolic syndrome. Almost only trends were observed in exposed females with higher triglycerides and decreased bone density compared to control females. Metabolic challenges triggered or amplified some biological responses, especially in females.

CONCLUSIONS

In utero exposure to air pollution predisposed rabbit offspring to cardiometabolic disorders in a sex-specific manner.

Relationship Between Elevated Hair Mercury Levels, Essential Element Status, and Metabolic Profile in Overweight and Obese Adults

The objective of the present study was to evaluate hair essential and trace element levels and metabolic risk markers in overweight and obese subjects in relation to body mercury burden. According to 2 × 2 factorial design a total of 440 adults were distributed to four groups: (i) low-Hg normal-weight subjects (n = 114); (ii) high-Hg normal weight subjects (n = 113); (iii) low-Hg overweight (BMI > 25) subjects (n = 110); (iv) high-Hg overweight (BMI > 25) subjects (n = 110). Hg-exposed groups consisted of subjects characterized by frequent seafood consumption (> 4 times/week) subsequently evaluated by hair analysis (> 0.58 μg/g). Dietary-exposed subjects were characterized by a more than 3-fold higher hair Hg content irrespectively of body weight values. Both low-Hg and high-Hg overweight subjects were characterized by significantly higher ALT activity, as well as elevated serum glucose, LDL, and triglyceride levels as compared to the respective groups of normal weight subjects. High Hg body burden had a more significant effect on metabolic parameters in overweight and obese adults. Particularly, high-Hg overweight subjects were characterized by significantly higher serum creatinine and uric acid levels, as well as increased GGT and CK activity as compared to low-Hg overweight counterparts. In addition, hair Mg, Mn, and Sr content in high-Hg overweight subjects was significantly lower than that in low-Hg normal weight and overweight examinees. In turn, high Hg levels in overweight subjects were associated with significantly higher hair Se and Zn levels when compared to unexposed overweight adults. Generally, the obtained data demonstrate that increased hair Hg levels in overweight and obese subjects is associated with adverse metabolic profile. It is proposed that observed metabolic alterations may be at least partially mediated by Hg-associated disturbances in essential trace element and mineral metabolism.

Exposure to obesogenic endocrine disrupting chemicals and obesity among youth of Latino or Hispanic origin in the United States and Latin America: A lifecourse perspective

Following a 2019 workshop led by the Center for Global Health Studies at the Fogarty International Center on the topic of childhood obesity prevention and research synergies transpiring from cross-border collaborations, we convened a group of experts in the United States and Latin America to conduct a narrative review of the epidemiological literature on the role of obesogenic endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in the etiology of childhood obesity among Latino youth in the United States and Latin America. In addition to summarizing and synthesizing results from research on this topic published within the last decade, we place the findings within a lifecourse biobehavioral framework to aid in identification of unique exposure-outcome relationships driven by both biological and behavioral research, identify inconsistencies and deficiencies in current literature, and discuss the role of policy regulations, all with the goal of identifying viable avenues for prevention of early life obesity in Latino/Hispanic populations.

Alkyphenol Exposure Alters Steroidogenesis in Male Lizard Podarcis siculus

BACKGROUND

Nonylphenol (NP) and Octylphenol (OP) are persistent and non-biodegradable environmental contaminants classified as endocrine disruptor chemicals (EDCs). These compounds are widely used in several industrial applications and present estrogen-like properties, which have extensively been studied in aquatic organisms. The present study aimed to verify the interference of these compounds alone, and in mixture, on the reproductive cycle of the male terrestrial vertebrate Podarcis siculus, focusing mainly on the steroidogenesis process.

METHODS

Male lizards have been treated with different injections of both NP and OP alone and in mixture, and evaluation has been carried out using a histological approach.

RESULTS

Results obtained showed that both substances are able to alter both testis histology and localization of key steroidogenic enzymes, such as 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD), 17β- hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD) and P450 aromatase. Moreover, OP exerts a preponderant effect, and the P450 aromatase represents the major target of both chemicals.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, NP and OP inhibit steroidogenesis, which in turn may reduce the reproductive capacity of the specimens.

Vitamin D in obesity and obesity-related diseases: an overview

Hypovitaminosis D and obesity represent two pandemic conditions sometimes associated with each other. Although it is known that there is a close relationship between these two health problems, the underlying pathophysiological mechanism has not yet been fully clarified. In fact, on the one hand, obesity per se seems to involve low circulating levels of vitamin D due to low sun exposure, physical activity, and intake of foods rich in vitamin D, volumetric dilution and sequestration in the adipose tissue. Conversely, since preadipocytes and adipocytes express the receptors and are involved in the metabolism of vitamin D it would seem that low levels of this vitamin may be involved in adipogenesis and therefore in the development of obesity. This connection is extremely important when considering obesity-related diseases. In fact, low vitamin D levels and severe obesity are significantly associated with some cardio-metabolic risk factors, including high Body Mass Index, waist circumference, blood pressure, impaired lipid and glycemic profile and insulin resistance, as they would seem associated with worse cardiovascular outcomes and higher cancer incidence and mortality. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to examine the recent evidence linking low vitamin D status, obesity and obesity-related diseases, highlighting the scientific achievements and the gaps to be filled with further investigations.

From bench to bedside: Biosensing strategies to evaluate endocrine disrupting compounds based on epigenetic events and their potential use in medicine

The relationship between endocrine system disorders and health risks due to chemical environmental compounds has become a growing concern in recent years. Involuntary exposure to endocrine disruptors (EDCs) is associated with the worldwide increase of diseases such as cancer, obesity, diabetes, and neurocortical disorders. EDCs are compounds that target the nuclear hormonereceptors (NHR) leading to epigenetic changes. Consequently, the use of biosensing strategies based on epigenetic events have a great potential to provide outstanding information about the exposition of EDCs and their evaluation in human health. This review addresses the novel trends in biosensing EDCs evaluation based on DNA methylation assays associated with different human diseases.

Is obesity the missing link between COVID-19 severity and air pollution?

In the previous publication "Can atmospheric pollution be considered a co-factor in extremely high level of SARS-CoV-2 lethality in Northern Italy?" Conticini et al. hypothesized that the surplus of lethality of the novel SARS-CoV-2 in Northern Italy may be at least in part explained by the evidence of highest pollution reported in this area, as both severe COVID-19 and smog exposure are correlated to an innate immune system hyper-activation with subsequent lung inflammation and injury. Since this hypothesis alone does not fully explain why specific subgroups of patients are at major risk, we hypothesized that obesity may be one of the links between COVID-19 severity and high level of air pollution. First, obesity is a predisposing factor for SARS-Cov-2 infection and worse COVID-19 outcomes, and unequivocal evidence demonstrated that fat mass excess is independently associated with several pulmonary diseases and lung inflammation. Moreover, it has been shown that obesity may intensify the detrimental effects of air pollution on the lungs, and this is not surprising if we consider that these conditions share an excessive activation of the immune system and a lung inflammatory infiltrate. Finally, fat mass excess has also been speculated to be itself a consequence of air pollutants exposure, which has been proved to induce metabolic disruption and weight gain in murine models. In conclusion, although many variables must be taken into account in the analysis of the pandemic, our observations suggest that obesity may act as effect modifier of smog-induced lung-injury, and the concomitant presence of these two factors could better explain the higher virulence, faster spread and greater mortality of SARS-CoV-2 in Northern Italy compared to the rest of the country.

Adrenal gland response to endocrine disrupting chemicals in fishes, amphibians and reptiles: A comparative overview

The adrenal gland is an essential component of the body stress response; it is formed by two portions: a steroidogenic and a chromaffin tissue. Despite the anatomy of adrenal gland is different among classes of vertebrates, the hormones produced are almost the same. During stress, these hormones contribute to body homeostasis and maintenance of ion balance. The adrenal gland is very sensitive to toxic compounds, many of which behave like endocrine-disruptor chemicals (EDCs). They contribute to alter the endocrine system in wildlife and humans and are considered as possible responsible of the decline of several vertebrate ectotherms. Considering that EDCs regularly can be found in all environmental matrices, the aim of this review is to collect information about the impact of these chemical compounds on the adrenal gland of fishes, amphibians and reptiles. In particular, this review shows the different behavior of these "sentinel species" when they are exposed to stress condition. The data supplied in this review can help to further elucidate the role of EDCs and their harmful impact on the survival of these vertebrates.

Exposure of U.S. population to endocrine disruptive chemicals (Parabens, Benzophenone-3, Bisphenol-A and Triclosan) and their associations with female infertility

Ubiquitous exposure to endocrine disruptive chemicals (EDC) among women of reproductive age is alarming. Exposure to EDCs could be contributing to infertility. We determined the association between common EDCs and self-reported infertility among U.S. women, 18-45 years of age using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) for periods 2013-2014 and 2015-2016. A cross-sectional study on reproductive age women was conducted. Available important sociodemographic variables, and urinary concentrations of parabens (methyl paraben [MP], ethyl paraben [EP], propyl paraben [PP], and butyl paraben [BP]), Benzophenone-3 (BP-3), Bisphenol-A (BPA), and triclosan (TCS) were obtained from the NHANES databases. Clustering among EDCs were obtained using variable cluster analysis. Relative risk regression models were used to estimate associations of individual and combined EDCs with self-reported infertility after applying appropriate survey weights to account for the complex survey design as well as to compensate for the four-year cycle. Results were summarized using prevalence ratio (PR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Of total 789 individuals included in the study, 14% (95%CI: 11%-18%) had infertility. MP and PP were detected in 99% of urine samples, BP in 46%, EP and BP-3 in 96%, BPA in 94% and TCS in 73%. Self-reported infertility was significantly associated with combined score of BP-3, BPA and TCS (PR = 1.13, p = 0.007), and above detection level of EP (PR = 1.57, p = 0.025) even after adjusting for potential confounders. Our results suggested the EP and mixtures of benzophenones, TCS, and BPA were associated with infertility among the U.S. women. However, because of the limitations inherent to the cross-sectional study design, prospective cohort studies are warranted to confirm these findings.

Very low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD) in patients with psoriasis and obesity: an update for dermatologists and nutritionists

Psoriasis is a chronic skin immune-mediated disease with systemic pro-inflammatory activation; both genetic and lifestyles factors contribute to its pathogenesis and severity. In this context, nutrition plays a significant role, per se, in psoriasis' pathogenesis. Obesity is another important risk factor for psoriasis, and weight reduction may improve psoriasis' clinical severity. The excess body weight, particularly visceral fat mass, can affect both drug's pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Therefore, psoriasis and obesity share a certain degree of synergy, and the chronic inflammatory state represents the basis of this vicious cycle. Evidence reported that nutrition has different impact on the clinical severity of psoriasis, though some specific diets have been more investigated in clinical studies compared to others. Diets with systemic anti-inflammatory properties seem to have a higher effect on improving the clinical severity of psoriasis. Of interest, very-low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD), through the production of ketone bodies, has been associated with both a significant reduction of body weight and inflammatory state. VLCKD leading to both weight loss and reduction of systemic inflammation may decrease the exacerbation of the clinical manifestations or even it may block the trigger of psoriatic disease. This dietary pattern could represent a potential first-line treatment in psoriatic patients with obesity. The review aims to summarize the current evidence regarding VLCKD and psoriasis with specific reference to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of this dietary pattern.

Eating habits and lifestyle changes during COVID-19 lockdown: an Italian survey

BACKGROUND

On December 12th 2019, a new coronavirus (SARS-Cov2) emerged in Wuhan, China, sparking a pandemic of acute respiratory syndrome in humans (COVID-19). On the 24th of April 2020, the number of COVID-19 deaths in the world, according to the COVID-Case Tracker by Johns Hopkins University, was 195,313, and the number of COVID-19 confirmed cases was 2,783,512. The COVID-19 pandemic represents a massive impact on human health, causing sudden lifestyle changes, through social distancing and isolation at home, with social and economic consequences. Optimizing public health during this pandemic requires not only knowledge from the medical and biological sciences, but also of all human sciences related to lifestyle, social and behavioural studies, including dietary habits and lifestyle.

METHODS

Our study aimed to investigate the immediate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on eating habits and lifestyle changes among the Italian population aged ≥ 12 years. The study comprised a structured questionnaire packet that inquired demographic information (age, gender, place of residence, current employment); anthropometric data (reported weight and height); dietary habits information (adherence to the Mediterranean diet, daily intake of certain foods, food frequency, and number of meals/day); lifestyle habits information (grocery shopping, habit of smoking, sleep quality and physical activity). The survey was conducted from the 5th to the 24th of April 2020.

RESULTS

A total of 3533 respondents have been included in the study, aged between 12 and 86 years (76.1% females). The perception of weight gain was observed in 48.6% of the population; 3.3% of smokers decided to quit smoking; a slight increased physical activity has been reported, especially for bodyweight training, in 38.3% of respondents; the population group aged 18-30 years resulted in having a higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet when compared to the younger and the elderly population (p < 0.001; p < 0.001, respectively); 15% of respondents turned to farmers or organic, purchasing fruits and vegetables, especially in the North and Center of Italy, where BMI values were lower.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we have provided for the first time data on the Italian population lifestyle, eating habits and adherence to the Mediterranean Diet pattern during the COVID-19 lockdown. However, as the COVID-19 pandemic is ongoing, our data need to be confirmed and investigated in future more extensive population studies.

Eating habits and lifestyle changes during COVID-19 lockdown: an Italian survey

BACKGROUND

On December 12th 2019, a new coronavirus (SARS-Cov2) emerged in Wuhan, China, sparking a pandemic of acute respiratory syndrome in humans (COVID-19). On the 24th of April 2020, the number of COVID-19 deaths in the world, according to the COVID-Case Tracker by Johns Hopkins University, was 195,313, and the number of COVID-19 confirmed cases was 2,783,512. The COVID-19 pandemic represents a massive impact on human health, causing sudden lifestyle changes, through social distancing and isolation at home, with social and economic consequences. Optimizing public health during this pandemic requires not only knowledge from the medical and biological sciences, but also of all human sciences related to lifestyle, social and behavioural studies, including dietary habits and lifestyle.

METHODS

Our study aimed to investigate the immediate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on eating habits and lifestyle changes among the Italian population aged ≥ 12 years. The study comprised a structured questionnaire packet that inquired demographic information (age, gender, place of residence, current employment); anthropometric data (reported weight and height); dietary habits information (adherence to the Mediterranean diet, daily intake of certain foods, food frequency, and number of meals/day); lifestyle habits information (grocery shopping, habit of smoking, sleep quality and physical activity). The survey was conducted from the 5th to the 24th of April 2020.

RESULTS

A total of 3533 respondents have been included in the study, aged between 12 and 86 years (76.1% females). The perception of weight gain was observed in 48.6% of the population; 3.3% of smokers decided to quit smoking; a slight increased physical activity has been reported, especially for bodyweight training, in 38.3% of respondents; the population group aged 18-30 years resulted in having a higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet when compared to the younger and the elderly population (p < 0.001; p < 0.001, respectively); 15% of respondents turned to farmers or organic, purchasing fruits and vegetables, especially in the North and Center of Italy, where BMI values were lower.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we have provided for the first time data on the Italian population lifestyle, eating habits and adherence to the Mediterranean Diet pattern during the COVID-19 lockdown. However, as the COVID-19 pandemic is ongoing, our data need to be confirmed and investigated in future more extensive population studies.

Chemical Structure-Related Adipogenic Effects of Tetrabromobisphenol A and Its Analogues on 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes

Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), the most widely used brominated flame retardant, is reported to potentially possess risks in inducing obesity or obesity-related metabolic diseases. Considering the increasing environmental contamination of TBBPA analogues and their high structural similarities to the parent compound, whether they could influence adipogenesis or not remains to be elucidated. In this study, two of the most prevalent TBBPA derivatives [i.e., TBBPA bis(allyl ether) (TBBPA-BAE) and TBBPA bis(2,3-dibromopropyl ether) (TBBPA-BDBPE)] and their byproducts [i.e., TBBPA mono(allyl ether) (TBBPA-MAE) and TBBPA mono(2,3-dibromopropyl ether) (TBBPA-MDBPE)], together with TBBPA, were screened for their capacities in activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) and glucocorticoid receptor (GR), the key nuclear receptors involved in adipogenesis, and their structure-related effects on differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes were explored. The results indicated that the binding affinities of TBBPA and its analogues for the PPARγ ligand-binding domain (PPARγ-LBD) and GR, as well as their effects on PPARγ transactivation, followed the order of TBBPA > TBBPA-MAE > TBBPA-MDBPE > TBBPA-BAE, TBBPA-BDBPE. Nevertheless, TBBPA-MAE and TBBPA-MDBPE showed higher potentials in promoting adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells than did TBBPA, as evidenced by intracellular triglyceride contents and adipogenic biomarkers at both protein and transcriptional levels. The etherified group at position 4 of TBBPA phenolic rings was crucial in chemical-induced adipogenic effects, which was related with the recruitment of PPARγ and GR-mediated networks and some other unidentified signaling pathways. The findings on the disturbance of TBBPA analogues on adipogenesis revealed their potential risk in causing obesity and other lipid metabolism-related human health concerns.

Probiotic antigenotoxic activity as a DNA bioprotective tool: a minireview with focus on endocrine disruptors

Nowadays, the interest in the role of dietary components able to influence the composition and the activity of the intestinal microbiota and, consequently, to modulate the risk of genotoxicity and colon cancer is increasing in the scientific community. Within this topic, the microbial ability to have a protective role at gastrointestinal level by counteracting the biological activity of genotoxic compounds, and thus preventing the DNA damage, is deemed important in reducing gut pathologies and is considered a new tool for probiotics and functional foods. A variety of genotoxic compounds can be found in the gut and, besides food-related mutagens and other DNA-reacting compounds, there is a group of pollutants commonly used in food packaging and/or in thousands of everyday products called endocrine disruptors (EDs). EDs are exogenous substances that alter the functions of the endocrine system through estrogenic and anti-estrogenic activity, which interfere with normal hormonal function in human and wildlife. Thus, this paper summarizes the main applications of probiotics, mainly lactobacilli, as a bio-protective tool to counteract genotoxic and mutagenic agents, by biologically inhibiting the related DNA damage in the gut and highlights the emerging perspectives to enlarge and further investigate the microbial bio-protective role at intestinal level.

Nonylphenol acts on prostate adenocarcinoma cells via estrogen molecular pathways

Estrogens play a role in the patho-physiology of the prostate. In the present work we studied the effects of nonylphenol (NP), a xenoestrogen, on human adenocarcinoma prostate cells (LNCaP). In order to understand molecular and cellular involvement, we observed the effects on cell cycle and we investigated the expression and the cellular localization of estrogen receptors and gene expression of cyclin D1, ki-67, c-myc, IL-8, IL-1β. We performed the same experiments with 17β-estradiol (E2), the most abundant estrogen circulating in nonpregnant humans in order to compare these two different substances. We demonstrated the ability of 1 × 10^-10 M NP to induce proliferation of LNCaP, S-phase progression, increase of ERα expression and its translocation from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. Moreover, we observed an up-regulation of key target genes involved in cell cycle and inflammation process. Particularly, after NP treatment, IL-8 and IL-1β mRNA levels are increased more than 50% indicating a major NP involvement in inflammation processes than E2. These data suggest the proliferative effects of NP on prostate adenocarcinoma cells and highlight some aspects of molecular pathways involved in prostate responses to NP.

Transgenerational effect of parental obesity and chronic parental bisphenol A exposure on hormonal profile and reproductive organs of preadolescent Wistar rats of F1 generation: A one-generation study

There is a global concern about adverse health effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Bisphenol A (BPA), an estrogenic and obesogenic compound, used in the plastic and medical industry has a dominant position among EDCs as far as human health and regulatory scenario are concerned. Due to its omnipresence across the biosphere, population of all age groups and health status is unavoidably exposed to BPA. Transgenerational exposure to BPA and its effects have also been recognized. However, there is no report on the transgenerational effect of BPA on metabolically disordered parents, such as obese ones. We studied effect of BPA exposure in F0 generation and its impact on F1 generation and factored parental obesity in transgenerational effect of concurrent exposure to low dose BPA (10 ppm × 180 days) in Wistar rats in a one-generation study protocol. The exposed F0 generation animals were crossed and F1 generation was analyzed 35 days after birth for indications of reproductive toxicity. We observed changes in hormone levels and disturbance in glucose and lipid homeostasis. Animals showed increased serum cholesterol and triglycerides along with higher birth weight and rapid weight gain. Histopathological evidence confirmed the presence of regressive and inflammatory changes in the ovary and testis. The test group showed metabolic disturbances in comparison to control group. Our study showed the additive effect of parental obesity in transgenerational reproductive toxicity of BPA. Female animals of F1 generation of BPA-treated obese parents showed more insulin resistance than males with similar exposure scenario. Our study highlights the confounding role of metabolic disorders such as obesity in the transgenerational toxicity of BPA, which otherwise itself is implicated in the aetiology of such metabolic disorders, directly or indirectly.

Tributyltin Affects Retinoid X Receptor-Mediated Lipid Metabolism in the Marine Rotifer Brachionus koreanus

To examine how tributyltin (TBT), a model obesogen, affects the lipid metabolism in the marine rotifer Brachionus koreanus, we carried out life-cycle studies and determined the in vitro and in silico interactions of retinoid X receptor (RXR) with TBT, the transcriptional levels of RXR and lipid metabolic genes, and the fatty acid content. The lethal concentration 10% (LC10) was determined to be 5.12 μg/L TBT, and negative effects on ecologically relevant end points (e.g., decreased lifespan and fecundity) were detected at 5 μg/L TBT. On the basis of these findings, subsequent experiments were conducted below 1 μg/L TBT, which did not show any negative effects on ecologically relevant end points in B. koreanus. Nile red staining analysis showed that after exposure to 1 μg/L TBT, B. koreanus stored neutral lipids and had significantly increased transcriptional levels of RXR and lipid metabolism-related genes compared to the control. However, the content of total fatty acids did not significantly change at any exposure level. In the single fatty acids profile, a significant increase in saturated fatty acids (SFAs) 14:0 and 20:0 was observed, but the contents of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids were significantly decreased. Also, a transactivation assay of TBT with RXR showed that TBT is an agonist of Bk-RXR with a similar fold-induction to the positive control. Taken together, these results demonstrate that TBT-modulated RXR signaling leads to increase in transcriptional levels of lipid metabolism-related genes and the synthesis of SFAs but decreases the content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Our findings support a wider taxonomic scope of lipid perturbation due to xenobiotic exposure that occurs via NRs in aquatic animals.

Exposure to indoor endocrine-disrupting chemicals and childhood asthma and obesity

BACKGROUND

Indoor air contaminants may act as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). However, to what extent these contaminants affect health is poorly known. We aimed to assess the association between EDCs exposure and asthma, respiratory symptoms and obesity in schoolchildren.

METHODS

Data from a cross-sectional analysis of 815 participants from 20 schools in Porto, Portugal, were analysed. Symptoms were assessed, asthma was defined on lung function, and airway reversibility and body mass index (BMI) were calculated. The concentrations of 13 volatile organic compounds and 2 aldehydes identified as EDCs were measured in 71 classrooms throughout 1 week. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to assess the effect of co-exposure. Associations were estimated by regression coefficients using linear and logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Increased individual and combined EDCs levels were found in classrooms having more children with asthma and obesity. Higher levels of hexane, styrene, cyclohexanone, butylated hydroxytoluene and 2-butoxyethanol were associated with obesity, and higher levels of cyclohexanone were associated with increased child BMI. Toluene, o-xylene, m/p-xylene and ethylbenzene were significantly associated with nasal obstruction. A positive association was found between PC1 and the risk of obese asthma (OR = 1.43, 95% CI 1.01, 1.98) and between PC2 and overweight (OR = 1.51, 95% CI 1.28, 1.79). PC1 and PC2 were also associated with nasal obstruction, and PC2 was associated with breathing difficulties and lean body mass, although EDCs concentrations were low.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings further support the role of EDCs in asthma and obesity development. Moreover, even low levels of indoor exposure may influence the risk of asthma, respiratory symptoms and obesity.

Is the current-use flame retardant, DBE-DBCH, a potential obesogen? Effects on body mass, fat content and associated behaviors in American kestrels

The current-use brominated flame retardant, 1,2-dibromo-4-(1,2-dibromoethyl)cyclohexane (DBE-DBCH), is capable of perturbing sex steroid and thyroid hormone pathways in vitro and in vivo. Chemicals with this capability may also disrupt metabolic processes and are candidate obesogens, but this potential has not yet been determined for DBE-DBCH. Our objective was to examine gross biomarkers of metabolic disruption in captive American kestrels. Birds were exposed by diet to the β isomer at the environmentally relevant dose of 0.239 ng β-DBE-DBCH/g kestrel/day, from 30 days (d) prior to pairing through until chicks hatched (82 d) (n = 30 breeding pairs) or for 28 d (n = 16 pre-breeding pairs), and were compared with vehicle-only exposed controls. Body mass was assessed throughout the breeding season at biologically relevant time points, flight and feeding behavior was measured in 5-min samples daily, and plasma triglycerides and cholesterol were assessed at d10 of brood rearing. Treated males were heavier than controls at pairing (p = 0.051), the final week of courtship (p = 0.061), and at d10 (p = 0.012) and d20 of brood rearing (p = 0.051); β-DBE-DBCH-exposed breeding females were similar in weight to control females. Treated birds tended to have higher plasma triglycerides (p = 0.078), which for females, was positively associated with body mass (p = 0.019). Heavier breeding males had higher plasma concentrations of testosterone and total thyroxine (p ≤ 0.046). Overall, both sexes exposed to β-DBE-DBCH demonstrated reduced flight behavior and increased feeding behavior during courtship. In the pre-breeding pairs, treated male and female kestrels had a higher percentage of body fat than respective controls (p = 0.045). These results demonstrate that β-DBE-DBCH elicited inappropriate fat and weight gain in adult American kestrels, consistent with their increased feeding, reduced flight activity and endocrine changes, and suggests that DBE-DBCH may be an obesogen warranting further research to test this hypothesis.

Challenges and opportunities to tackle the rising prevalence of diet-related non-communicable diseases in Africa

Africa is experiencing a sharp rise in non-communicable diseases (NCD) related to rapid globalisation and urbanisation leading to shifts in dietary and lifestyle patterns characterised by increased energy intake and physical inactivity. However, unlike more resource-endowed regions, Africa has a double burden of disease: NCD co-exist with infectious diseases including lower respiratory tract infections, HIV/AIDS and diarrhoeal diseases. The African economy is also relatively weaker, making it difficult to cope with this burden. It is postulated that NCD will soon overtake infectious diseases as the number one cause of death in the African region. The recognition of NCD as diseases and obesity as a related risk factor is weak in Africa, compounded by stigma associated with wasting in HIV/AIDS and obesity being perceived as a sign of wealth, achievement and care. There is also a dearth of data on overweight and obesity in the region and little knowledge that infant feeding practices, such as breast-feeding, are linked to reduced risk of NCD in both children and mothers. While complex multi-sectoral approaches to address this NCD menace are needed, Africa may benefit from taking simple initial steps to address NCD risk factors including: (1) behaviour change communication to challenge perceptions on NCD; (2) promoting and protecting breast-feeding; (3) formulating policies and regulations limiting wide availability of unhealthy foods; (4) mainstream nutrition education in school curricula and (5) collection of accurate data based on indicators that can reflect the double burden of disease and malnutrition; and fostering multi-sectoral actions against NCD.

Exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) during childhood and adiposity measures at age 8 years

BACKGROUND

Animal studies suggest polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) may be obesogens. However, epidemiologic studies investigating childhood exposure to PBDEs and adiposity are limited, with several reporting an inverse association.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate associations between repeated childhood PBDE concentrations and adiposity measures at age 8 years.

METHODS

We examined 206 children from the Health Outcomes and Measures of the Environment Study, a birth cohort in Cincinnati, OH (2003-2006). Serum PBDEs were measured at ages 1, 2, 3, 5, and 8 years. We used multiple imputation to estimate missing PBDE concentrations. At 8 years, we measured weight, height, waist circumference, and body fat percentage. We used multiple informant models to estimate age-specific associations between PBDEs and adiposity measures.

RESULTS

We observed significant inverse associations between BDE-153 with all adiposity measures that became increasingly stronger with later childhood measurements. A 10-fold increase in BDE-153 at ages 1 and 8 years was associated with 2% (95% CI -3.9, -0.1) and 7% (95% CI -9.1, -4.7) lower body fat, respectively. No statistically significant associations were found with BDE-28, -47, -99, or -100. Child sex modified some associations; inverse associations between BDE-153 and body fat were stronger among boys, while positive and null associations were noted among girls.

CONCLUSIONS

Childhood BDE-153 concentrations were inversely associated with adiposity measures and these associations became stronger as BDE-153 measurements were more proximal to adiposity measures. Inverse associations could be attributed to reverse causality arising from greater storage of PBDEs in adipose tissue of children with higher adiposity.

The brominated flame retardant BDE 47 upregulates purine metabolism and mitochondrial respiration to promote adipocyte differentiation

Adipocyte differentiation is closely associated with obesity and obesity-induced metabolic disorders. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated the association of obesity with environmental pollutants, such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), common flame retardants in various consumer products. However, their obesogenic effects and mechanism are underexplored. We employed non-targeted metabolomics studies based on liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry to determine how 2,2',4,4'-tetra-brominated biphenyl ether (BDE 47), one of the main congeners of PBDEs detected in human tissue, promotes adipocyte differentiation of mouse preadipocyte 3 T3-L1 cells. The promoting effects of BDE 47 exposure (5 or 10 μM) on adipocyte differentiation were confirmed by enhancing lipid accumulation and expression levels of biomarkers of adipogenesis. For the first time, we demonstrated that BDE 47 upregulated purine metabolism and altered glutathione metabolism to promote oxidative stress and uric acid production in adipocytes. BDE 47 also elevated mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis in adipocytes to induce more ATP to combat oxidative stress. Antioxidant treatments, including the suppression of xanthine oxidase, inhibited the effects of BDE 47 on inducing oxidative stress and lipid accumulation. BDE 47 may be a potential environmental obesogen by providing a permissive oxidative environment to induce adipocyte differentiation.

Tetrabromobisphenol-A Promotes Early Adipogenesis and Lipogenesis in 3T3-L1 Cells

Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) is the most common flame retardant used in electrical housings, circuit boards, and automobiles. High-throughput screening and binding assays have identified TBBPA as an agonist for human peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), the master regulator of adipogenesis. TBBPA has been suggested to be an obesogen based on in vitro cellular assays and zebrafish data. We hypothesized that exposing preadipocytes to TBBPA could influence adipogenesis via genes other than those in the PPARγ pathway due to its structural similarity to bisphenol A, which demonstrates varied endocrine disrupting activities. Mouse-derived 3T3-L1 preadipocytes were induced to differentiate and continually treated with TBBPA for 8 days. High-content imaging of adipocytes displayed increased adipocyte number and lipid accumulation when treated with TBBPA. TBBPA exhibited weak induction of mPPARγ, with an AC50 of 397 µM. Quantitative PCR revealed that TBBPA exposure increased early expression of genes involved in glucocorticoid receptor (GR) signaling and PPARγ transcriptional activation, as well as upregulating downstream genes needed for adipocyte maintenance and nontraditional ER signaling, such as Gpr30. Additionally, Pref1 and Thy1, inhibitors of differentiation, were downregulated by some concentrations of TBBPA. Furthermore, proliferating preadipocytes treated with TBBPA, only prior to differentiation, exhibited increased adipocyte number and lipid accumulation after 8 days in normal culture conditions. In conclusion, TBBPA influenced gene expression changes in GR, nontraditional ER, and known adipogenic regulatory genes, prior to PPARγ expression; effects suggesting early programming of adipogenic pathways.

Endocrine Disruption by Mixtures in Topical Consumer Products

Endocrine disruption has been gathering increasing attention in the past 25 years as a possible new threat for health and safety. Exposure to endocrine disruptor has been progressively linked with a growing number of increasing disease in the human population. The mechanics through which endocrine disruptors act are not yet completely clear, however a number of pathways have been identified. A key concern is the cumulative and synergic effects that endocrine disruptors could have when mixed in consumer products. We reviewed the available literature to identify known or potential endocrine disruptors, as well as endocrine active substances that could contribute to cumulative effects, in topical consumer products. The number of endocrine actives used daily in consumer products is staggering and even though most if not all are used in concentrations that are considered to be safe, we believe that the possibility of combined effects in mixtures and non-monotonic dose/response is enough to require further precautions. A combined in vitro approach based on existing, validated OECD test methods is suggested to screen consumer products and mixtures for potential interaction with estrogen and androgen hormone receptors, in order to identify products that could have cumulative effects or support their safety concerning direct endocrine disruption capabilities.