1
|
Xu P, Liu B, Chen H, Wang H, Guo X, Yuan J. PAHs as environmental pollutants and their neurotoxic effects. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2024; 283:109975. [PMID: 38972621 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2024.109975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are widely present in incompletely combusted air particulate matter <2.5 μm (PM2.5), tobacco and other organic materials, can enter the human body through various routes and are a class of environmental pollutants with neurotoxic effects. PAHs exposure can lead to abnormal development of the nervous system and neurobehavioral abnormalities in animals, including adverse effects on the nervous system of children and adults, such as a reduced learning ability, intellectual decline, and neural tube defects. After PAHs enter cells of the nervous system, they eventually lead to nervous system damage through mechanisms such as oxidative stress, DNA methylation and demethylation, and mitochondrial autophagy, potentially leading to a series of nervous system diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, preventing and treating neurological diseases caused by PAHs exposure are particularly important. From the perspective of the in vitro and in vivo effects of PAHs exposure, as well as its effects on human neurodevelopment, this paper reviews the toxic mechanisms of action of PAHs and the corresponding prevention and treatment methods to provide a relevant theoretical basis for preventing the neurotoxicity caused by PAHs, thereby reducing the incidence of diseases related to the nervous system and protecting human health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peixin Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Bingchun Liu
- Stem Cell Laboratory / Central Laboratory Of Organ Transplantation / Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Engineering Laboratory For Genetic Test And Research Of Tumor Cells, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Huizeng Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Xin Guo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Jianlong Yuan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yang G, Liu J, Yang Q, Gu W. Toxicity of soil leaching liquor from coking plant in developmental zebrafish embryos/larvae model. J Appl Toxicol 2024. [PMID: 39164216 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024]
Abstract
The coking industry in China is the largest coke supplier in the world. Contaminated soil in industrial areas poses a serious threat to human and ecosystems. Most of the studies investigated the toxicity of soil from coking plant on soil microorganisms, while the toxic effects of soil leaching liquor on aquatics are limited. In this study, the composition of soil leaching liquor from a coking plant in Taiyuan (TY) was analyzed, and the developmental toxicity on zebrafish was evaluated. The results showed that a total of 91 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were detected in the leaching liquor, followed by phenols and benzene series. The leaching liquor induced developmental impairment in zebrafish larvae, including delayed incubation, deficits in locomotor behavior, vascular and cardiac dysplasia, and impaired neurodevelopment. The results of metabolomics analysis showed that TY soil leaching liquor induced significant metabolic profile disturbances in zebrafish embryos/larvae. The developmental toxicity of the leaching liquor metabolic disorders may be associated with the leaching liquor-induced abnormalities in zebrafish embryonic development. Metabolic pathways were identified by arginine and proline metabolism, phosphotransferase system, starch and sucrose metabolism, steroid biosynthesis, beta-alanine metabolism, and nucleotide metabolism pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guangchao Yang
- Research and Development Center for Watershed Environmental Eco-Engineering, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Jining Liu
- Research and Development Center for Watershed Environmental Eco-Engineering, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Qian Yang
- College of Food Science and Engineering/Collaborative Innovation Center for Modern Grain Circulation and Safety/Key Laboratory of Grains and Oils Quality Control and Processing, Nanjing University of Finance and Economics, Nanjing, China
| | - Wen Gu
- Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Rericha Y, St. Mary L, Truong L, McClure R, Martin JK, Leonard SW, Thunga P, Simonich MT, Waters KM, Field JA, Tanguay RL. Diverse PFAS produce unique transcriptomic changes linked to developmental toxicity in zebrafish. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2024; 6:1425537. [PMID: 39104825 PMCID: PMC11298493 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2024.1425537] [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: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a widespread and persistent class of contaminants posing significant environmental and human health concerns. Comprehensive understanding of the modes of action underlying toxicity among structurally diverse PFAS is mostly lacking. To address this need, we recently reported on our application of developing zebrafish to evaluate a large library of PFAS for developmental toxicity. In the present study, we prioritized 15 bioactive PFAS that induced significant morphological effects and performed RNA-sequencing to characterize early transcriptional responses at a single timepoint (48 h post fertilization) after early developmental exposures (8 h post fertilization). Internal concentrations of 5 of the 15 PFAS were measured from pooled whole fish samples across multiple timepoints between 24-120 h post fertilization, and additional temporal transcriptomics at several timepoints (48-96 h post fertilization) were conducted for Nafion byproduct 2. A broad range of differentially expressed gene counts were identified across the PFAS exposures. Most PFAS that elicited robust transcriptomic changes affected biological processes of the brain and nervous system development. While PFAS disrupted unique processes, we also found that similarities in some functional head groups of PFAS were associated with the disruption in expression of similar gene sets. Body burdens after early developmental exposures to select sulfonic acid PFAS, including Nafion byproduct 2, increased from the 24-96 h post fertilization sampling timepoints and were greater than those of sulfonamide PFAS of similar chain lengths. In parallel, the Nafion byproduct 2-induced transcriptional responses increased between 48 and 96 h post fertilization. PFAS characteristics based on toxicity, transcriptomic effects, and modes of action will contribute to further prioritization of PFAS structures for testing and informed hazard assessment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne Rericha
- Environmental and Molecular Toxicology Department, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Lindsey St. Mary
- Environmental and Molecular Toxicology Department, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Lisa Truong
- Environmental and Molecular Toxicology Department, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Ryan McClure
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Biological Sciences Division, Richland, WA, United States
| | - J. Kainalu Martin
- Environmental and Molecular Toxicology Department, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Scott W. Leonard
- Environmental and Molecular Toxicology Department, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Preethi Thunga
- Biological Sciences Department, College of Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Michael T. Simonich
- Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Katrina M. Waters
- Environmental and Molecular Toxicology Department, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Biological Sciences Division, Richland, WA, United States
| | - Jennifer A. Field
- Environmental and Molecular Toxicology Department, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Robyn L. Tanguay
- Environmental and Molecular Toxicology Department, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Carlin DJ, Rider CV. Combined Exposures and Mixtures Research: An Enduring NIEHS Priority. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2024; 132:75001. [PMID: 38968090 PMCID: PMC11225971 DOI: 10.1289/ehp14340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) continues to prioritize research to better understand the health effects resulting from exposure to mixtures of chemical and nonchemical stressors. Mixtures research activities over the last decade were informed by expert input during the development and deliberations of the 2011 NIEHS Workshop "Advancing Research on Mixtures: New Perspectives and Approaches for Predicting Adverse Human Health Effects." NIEHS mixtures research efforts since then have focused on key themes including a) prioritizing mixtures for study, b) translating mixtures data from in vitro and in vivo studies, c) developing cross-disciplinary collaborations, d) informing component-based and whole-mixture assessment approaches, e) developing sufficient similarity methods to compare across complex mixtures, f) using systems-based approaches to evaluate mixtures, and g) focusing on management and integration of mixtures-related data. OBJECTIVES We aimed to describe NIEHS driven research on mixtures and combined exposures over the last decade and present areas for future attention. RESULTS Intramural and extramural mixtures research projects have incorporated a diverse array of chemicals (e.g., polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, botanicals, personal care products, wildfire emissions) and nonchemical stressors (e.g., socioeconomic factors, social adversity) and have focused on many diseases (e.g., breast cancer, atherosclerosis, immune disruption). We have made significant progress in certain areas, such as developing statistical methods for evaluating multiple chemical associations in epidemiology and building translational mixtures projects that include both in vitro and in vivo models. DISCUSSION Moving forward, additional work is needed to improve mixtures data integration, elucidate interactions between chemical and nonchemical stressors, and resolve the geospatial and temporal nature of mixture exposures. Continued mixtures research will be critical to informing cumulative impact assessments and addressing complex challenges, such as environmental justice and climate change. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP14340.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danielle J. Carlin
- Division of Extramural Research and Training, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Cynthia V. Rider
- Division of Translational Toxicology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
St Mary L, Trine LSD, Roper C, Wiley J, Craciunescu L, Sotorrios L, Paterson M, Massey Simonich SL, McCoustra M, Henry TB. Environmental significance of PAH photoproduct formation: TiO 2 nanoparticle influence, altered bioavailability, and potential photochemical mechanisms. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 360:142384. [PMID: 38797205 PMCID: PMC11321274 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Interactions between polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (NPs) can produce unforeseen photoproducts in the aqueous phase. Both PAHs and TiO2-NPs are well-studied and highly persistent environmental pollutants, but the consequences of PAH-TiO2-NP interactions are rarely explored. We investigated PAH photoproduct formation over time for benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), fluoranthene (FLT), and pyrene (PYR) in the presence of ultraviolet A (UVA) using a combination of analytical and computational methods including, identification of PAH photoproducts, assessment of expression profiles for gene indicators of PAH metabolism, and computational evaluation of the reaction mechanisms through which certain photoproducts might be formed. Chemical analyses identified diverse photoproducts, but all PAHs shared a primary photoproduct, 9,10-phenanthraquinone (9,10-PQ), regardless of TiO2-NP presence. The computed reaction mechanisms revealed the roles photodissociation and singlet oxygen chemistry likely play in PAH mediated photochemical processes that result in the congruent production of 9,10-PQ within this study. Our investigation of PAH photoproduct formation has provided substantial evidence of the many, diverse and congruent, photoproducts formed from physicochemically distinct PAHs and how TiO2-NPs influence bioavailability and time-related formation of PAH photoproducts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey St Mary
- Institute of Life and Earth Sciences, School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure, and Society, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS, Scotland, UK; Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, 97333, USA.
| | - Lisandra S D Trine
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, 97333, USA
| | - Courtney Roper
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, 97333, USA; Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, University, MS, 38677, USA
| | - Jackson Wiley
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, 97333, USA
| | - Luca Craciunescu
- Institute of Chemical Sciences, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, Scotland, UK
| | - Lia Sotorrios
- Institute of Chemical Sciences, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, Scotland, UK
| | - Martin Paterson
- Institute of Chemical Sciences, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, Scotland, UK
| | - Staci L Massey Simonich
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, 97333, USA
| | - Martin McCoustra
- Institute of Chemical Sciences, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, Scotland, UK
| | - Theodore B Henry
- Institute of Life and Earth Sciences, School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure, and Society, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS, Scotland, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lee H, Stead JD, Williams A, Cortés Ramírez SA, Atlas E, Mennigen JA, O’Brien JM, Yauk C. Empirical Characterization of False Discovery Rates of Differentially Expressed Genes and Transcriptomic Benchmark Concentrations in Zebrafish Embryos. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:6128-6137. [PMID: 38530926 PMCID: PMC11008580 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c10543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
High-throughput transcriptomics (HTTr) is increasingly applied to zebrafish embryos to survey the toxicological effects of environmental chemicals. Before the adoption of this approach in regulatory testing, it is essential to characterize background noise in order to guide experimental designs. We thus empirically quantified the HTTr false discovery rate (FDR) across different embryo pool sizes, sample sizes, and concentration groups for toxicology studies. We exposed zebrafish embryos to 0.1% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) for 5 days. Pools of 1, 5, 10, and 20 embryos were created (n = 24 samples for each pool size). Samples were sequenced on the TempO-Seq platform and then randomly assigned to mock treatment groups before differentially expressed gene (DEG), pathway, and benchmark concentration (BMC) analyses. Given that all samples were treated with DMSO, any significant DEGs, pathways, or BMCs are false positives. As expected, we found decreasing FDRs for DEG and pathway analyses with increasing pool and sample sizes. Similarly, FDRs for BMC analyses decreased with increasing pool size and concentration groups, with more stringent BMC premodel filtering reducing BMC FDRs. Our study provides foundational data for determining appropriate experiment designs for regulatory toxicity testing with HTTr in zebrafish embryos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyojin Lee
- Department
of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - John D.H. Stead
- Department
of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Andrew Williams
- Environmental
Health Science and Research Bureau, Health
Canada, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0K9, Canada
| | | | - Ella Atlas
- Environmental
Health Science and Research Bureau, Health
Canada, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Jan A. Mennigen
- Department
of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Jason M. O’Brien
- Ecotoxicology
and Wildlife Health Division, Environment
and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0H3, Canada
| | - Carole Yauk
- Department
of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Stickler A, Hawkey AB, Gondal A, Natarajan S, Mead M, Levin ED. Embryonic exposures to cadmium and PAHs cause long-term and interacting neurobehavioral effects in zebrafish. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2024; 102:107339. [PMID: 38452988 PMCID: PMC10990771 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2024.107339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Developmental exposure to either polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) or heavy metals has been shown to cause persisting and overlapping neurobehavioral effects in animal models. However, interactions between these compounds have not been well characterized, despite their co-occurrence in a variety of environmental media. In two companion studies, we examined the effects of developmental exposure to cadmium (Cd) with or without co-exposure to prototypic PAHs benzo[a]pyrene (BaP, Exp. 1) or fluoranthene (FA, Exp. 2) using a developing zebrafish model. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to Cd (0-0.3 μM), BaP (0-3 μM), FA (0-1.0 μM), or binary Cd-PAH mixtures from 5 to 122 h post fertilization (hpf). In Exp. 1, Cd and BaP produced independent effects on an array of outcomes and interacting effects on specific outcomes. Notably, Cd-induced deficits in dark-induced locomotor stimulation were attenuated by BaP co-exposure in the larval motility test and BaP-induced hyperactivity was attenuated by Cd co-exposure in the adolescent novel tank test. Likewise, in Exp. 2, Cd and FA produced both independent and interacting effects. FA-induced increases on adult post-tap activity in the tap startle test were attenuated by co-exposure with Cd. On the predator avoidance test, FA- and 0.3 μM Cd-induced hyperactivity effects were attenuated by their co-exposure. Taken together, these data indicate that while the effects of Cd and these representative PAHs on zebrafish behavior were largely independent of one another, binary mixtures can produce sub-additive effects for some neurobehavioral outcomes and at certain ages. This research emphasizes the need for detailed risk assessments of mixtures containing contaminants of differing classes, and for clarity on the mechanisms which allow cross-class toxicant interactions to occur.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Stickler
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Andrew B Hawkey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL 60515, USA
| | - Anas Gondal
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Sarabesh Natarajan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Mikayla Mead
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Edward D Levin
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Babich R, Merutka I, Craig E, Harichandara A, De Silva PMCS, Gunasekara TDKSC, Jayasundara N. Transcriptomic and behavioral analyses reveal unique target tissues and molecular pathways associated with embryonic exposure to low level glyphosate and metal mixtures in zebrafish. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169271. [PMID: 38114029 PMCID: PMC10964846 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Investigation of developmental molecular events following exposure to environmentally relevant agrochemical mixtures is critical to predicting their potential long-term ecological and human health risks. Here, we sought to uncover transcriptomic changes during zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryonic development following exposure to glyphosate and co-exposure to metals. Glyphosate is widely used globally with an allowable drinking water limit of 700 ppb. We examined effects of glyphosate (10 ppb) alone and when co-exposed to a metal mixture containing low levels of arsenic (4 ppb), lead (5 ppb), cadmium (2 ppb), and vanadium (15 ppb). This mixture was derived based on behavioral and morphological toxicity findings and environmentally relevant concentrations found in agricultural regions where glyphosate and metals are ubiquitously present. Gene expression patterns coupled to a single-cell transcriptomic dataset revealed that developmental exposure (28-72 h post fertilization) to glyphosate dysregulates expression of developmental genes specific to the central nervous system. Subsequent studies indicated significant suppression of larval zebrafish movement with 10 ppb glyphosate exposure. Studies with glyphosate + metals mixture and metals mixture alone showed unique developmental transcriptomic patterns and behavioral changes compared to glyphosate exposure alone. However, some outcomes (e.g., changes in expression of genes involved in epigenetic regulation and extracellular matrix patterning) were common across all three exposures compared to the control. Notably, glyphosate + metals co-exposure distinctly suppresses lysosomal transcripts and targets renal developmental genes. While further studies are required to uncover the precise nature of the interactions between glyphosate and metals, our study shows that glyphosate at very low levels is a behavioral and neurotoxicant that changes when metals are present. Given this herbicide affects distinctive physiological processes, including renal development and lysosomal dysregulation when co-exposed with metals, we conclude that environmental cation levels should be considered in glyphosate toxicity and risk assessment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Remy Babich
- University of Maine, Orono, ME 14069, United States of America.
| | - Ilaria Merutka
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States of America
| | - Emily Craig
- University of Maine, Orono, ME 14069, United States of America; Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States of America
| | | | | | | | - Nishad Jayasundara
- University of Maine, Orono, ME 14069, United States of America; Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
McClure RS, Rericha Y, Waters KM, Tanguay RL. 3' RNA-seq is superior to standard RNA-seq in cases of sparse data but inferior at identifying toxicity pathways in a model organism. FRONTIERS IN BIOINFORMATICS 2023; 3:1234218. [PMID: 37576716 PMCID: PMC10414111 DOI: 10.3389/fbinf.2023.1234218] [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: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The application of RNA-sequencing has led to numerous breakthroughs related to investigating gene expression levels in complex biological systems. Among these are knowledge of how organisms, such as the vertebrate model organism zebrafish (Danio rerio), respond to toxicant exposure. Recently, the development of 3' RNA-seq has allowed for the determination of gene expression levels with a fraction of the required reads compared to standard RNA-seq. While 3' RNA-seq has many advantages, a comparison to standard RNA-seq has not been performed in the context of whole organism toxicity and sparse data. Methods and results: Here, we examined samples from zebrafish exposed to perfluorobutane sulfonamide (FBSA) with either 3' or standard RNA-seq to determine the advantages of each with regards to the identification of functionally enriched pathways. We found that 3' and standard RNA-seq showed specific advantages when focusing on annotated or unannotated regions of the genome. We also found that standard RNA-seq identified more differentially expressed genes (DEGs), but that this advantage disappeared under conditions of sparse data. We also found that standard RNA-seq had a significant advantage in identifying functionally enriched pathways via analysis of DEG lists but that this advantage was minimal when identifying pathways via gene set enrichment analysis of all genes. Conclusions: These results show that each approach has experimental conditions where they may be advantageous. Our observations can help guide others in the choice of 3' RNA-seq vs standard RNA sequencing to query gene expression levels in a range of biological systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan S. McClure
- Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest Laboratory, Richland, WA, United States
| | - Yvonne Rericha
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Katrina M. Waters
- Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest Laboratory, Richland, WA, United States
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Robyn L. Tanguay
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wilson LB, Moran IL, Anderson KA, Tanguay RL. Advances in PAH mixture toxicology enabled by zebrafish. CURRENT OPINION IN TOXICOLOGY 2023; 34:100392. [PMID: 37377741 PMCID: PMC10292781 DOI: 10.1016/j.cotox.2023.100392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a class of organic compounds produced by a variety of petrogenic and pyrogenic sources. PAHs inherently occur in the environment in complex mixtures. The early life-stage zebrafish model is a valuable tool for high-throughput screening (HTS) for toxicity of complex chemical mixtures due to its rapid development, high fecundity, and superb sensitivity to chemical insult. Zebrafish are amenable to exposure to surrogate mixtures as well as extracts of environmental samples and effect-directed analysis. In addition to its utility to HTS, the zebrafish has proven an excellent model for assessing chemical modes of action and identifying molecular initiating and other key events in an Adverse Outcome Pathway framework. Traditional methods of assessing PAH mixture toxicity prioritize carcinogenic potential and lack consideration of non-carcinogenic modes of action, assuming a similar molecular initiating event for all PAHs. Recent work in zebrafish has made it clear that while PAHs belong to the same chemical class, their modes of action can be divergent. Future research should use zebrafish to better classify PAHs by their bioactivity and modes of action to better understand mixture hazards.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay B. Wilson
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331
- Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333
| | - Ian L. Moran
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331
| | - Kim A. Anderson
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331
| | - Robyn L. Tanguay
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331
- Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Jami MS, Murata H, Barnhill LM, Li S, Bronstein JM. Diesel exhaust exposure alters the expression of networks implicated in neurodegeneration in zebrafish brains. Cell Biol Toxicol 2023; 39:641-655. [PMID: 34057650 PMCID: PMC10406705 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-021-09618-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are a major cause of disability in the world, but their etiologies largely remain elusive. Genetic factors can only account for a minority of risk for most of these disorders, suggesting environmental factors play a significant role in the development of these diseases. Prolonged exposure to air pollution has recently been identified to increase the risk of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, but the molecular mechanisms by which it acts are not well understood. Zebrafish embryos exposed to diesel exhaust particle extract (DEPe) lead to dysfunctional autophagy and neuronal loss. Here, we exposed zebrafish embryos to DEPe and performed high throughput proteomic and transcriptomic expression analyses from their brains to identify pathogenic pathways induced by air pollution. DEPe treatment altered several biological processes and signaling pathways relevant to neurodegenerative processes, including xenobiotic metabolism, phagosome maturation, and amyloid processing. The biggest induction of gene expression in brains was in Cyp1A (over 30-fold). The relevance of this expression change was confirmed by blocking induction using CRISPR/Cas9, which resulted in a dramatic increase in sensitivity to DEPe toxicity, confirming that Cyp1A induction was a compensatory protective mechanism. These studies identified disrupted molecular pathways that may contribute to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders. Ultimately, determining the molecular basis of how air pollution increases the risk of neurodegeneration will help in the development of disease-modifying therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Saeid Jami
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine At UCLA, 710 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Hiromi Murata
- Molecular Toxicology IDP, David Geffen School of Medicine At UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lisa M Barnhill
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine At UCLA, 710 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Molecular Toxicology IDP, David Geffen School of Medicine At UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sharon Li
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine At UCLA, 710 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Jeff M Bronstein
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine At UCLA, 710 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
- Molecular Toxicology IDP, David Geffen School of Medicine At UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Rude CI, Tidwell LG, Tilton SC, Waters KM, Anderson KA, Tanguay RL. Coupling Environmental Whole Mixture Toxicity Screening with Unbiased RNA-Seq Reveals Site-Specific Biological Responses in Zebrafish. TOXICS 2023; 11:201. [PMID: 36976966 PMCID: PMC10053777 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11030201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Passive sampling device (PSD) extracts paired with developmental toxicity assays in Danio Rerio (zebrafish) are excellent sensors for whole mixture toxicity associated with the bioavailable non-polar organics at environmental sites. We expand this concept by incorporating RNA-Seq in 48-h post fertilization zebrafish statically exposed to PSD extracts from two Portland Harbor Superfund Site locations: river mile 6.5W (RM 6.5W) and river mile 7W (RM 7W). RM 6.5W contained higher concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), but the diagnostic ratios of both extracts indicated similar PAH sourcing and composition. Developmental screens determined RM 6.5W to be more toxic with the most sensitive endpoint being a "wavy" notochord malformation. Differential gene expression from exposure to both extracts was largely parallel, although more pronounced for RM 6.5W. When compared to the gene expression associated with individual chemical exposures, PSD extracts produced some gene signatures parallel to PAHs but were more closely matched by oxygenated-PAHs. Additionally, differential expression, reminiscent of the wavy notochord phenotype, was not accounted for by either class of chemical, indicating the potential of other contaminants driving mixture toxicity. These techniques offer a compelling method for non-targeted hazard characterization of whole mixtures in an in vivo vertebrate system without requiring complete chemical characterization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian I. Rude
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Lane G. Tidwell
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Susan C. Tilton
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Katrina M. Waters
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Biological Sciences Division, Richland, WA 99354, USA
| | - Kim A. Anderson
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Robyn L. Tanguay
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Misaki K, Tue NM, Takamura-Enya T, Takigami H, Suzuki G, Tuyen LH, Takahashi S, Tanabe S. Antiandrogenic and Estrogenic Activity Evaluation of Oxygenated and Nitrated Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons Using Chemically Activated Luciferase Expression Assays. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:80. [PMID: 36612408 PMCID: PMC9819389 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
To establish the risk of the endocrine disrupting activity of polycyclic aromatic compounds, especially oxygenated and nitrated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (oxy-PAHs and nitro-PAHs, respectively), antiandrogenic and estrogenic activities were determined using chemically activated luciferase expression (CALUX) assays with human osteoblast sarcoma cells. A total of 27 compounds including 9 oxy-PAHs (polycyclic aromatic ketones and quinones) and 8 nitro-PAHs was studied. The oxy-PAHs of 7H-benz[de]anthracen-7-one (BAO), 11H-benzo[a]fluoren-11-one (B[a]FO), 11H-benzo[b]fluoren-11-one (B[b]FO), and phenanthrenequinone (PhQ) exhibited significantly the potent inhibition of AR activation. All nitro-PAHs exhibited high antiandrogenic activities (especially high for 3-nitrofluoranthene (3-NFA) and 3-nitro-7H-benz[de]anthracen-7-one (3-NBAO)), and the AR inhibition was confirmed as noncompetitive for 3-NFA, 3-NBAO, and 1,3-dinitropyrene (1,3-DNPy). Antiandrogenic activity of 3-NFA demonstrated characteristically a U-shaped dose-response curve; however, the absence of fluorescence effect on the activity was confirmed. The prominent estrogenic activity dependent on dose-response curve was confirmed for 2 oxy-PAHs (i.e., B[a]FO and B[b]FO). Elucidating the role of AR and ER on the effects of polycyclic aromatic compounds (e.g., oxy- and nitro-PAHs) to endocrine dysfunctions in mammals and aquatic organisms remains a challenge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Misaki
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, Bunkyo-cho 2-5, Matsuyama 790-8577, Japan
- School of Nursing, University of Shizuoka, Yada 52-1, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka 422-8526, Japan
| | - Nguyen Minh Tue
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, Bunkyo-cho 2-5, Matsuyama 790-8577, Japan
- Key Laboratory of Analytical Technology for Environmental Quality and Food Safety Control (KLATEFOS), VNU University of Science, Vietnam National University, 334 Nguyen Trai, Hanoi 11400, Vietnam
| | - Takeji Takamura-Enya
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Kanagawa Institute of Technology, 1030 Shimo-Ogino, Atsugi 243-0292, Japan
| | - Hidetaka Takigami
- Center for Material Cycles and Waste Management Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES), Onogawa 16-2, Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | - Go Suzuki
- Center for Material Cycles and Waste Management Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES), Onogawa 16-2, Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | - Le Huu Tuyen
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, Bunkyo-cho 2-5, Matsuyama 790-8577, Japan
- Key Laboratory of Analytical Technology for Environmental Quality and Food Safety Control (KLATEFOS), VNU University of Science, Vietnam National University, 334 Nguyen Trai, Hanoi 11400, Vietnam
| | - Shin Takahashi
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, Bunkyo-cho 2-5, Matsuyama 790-8577, Japan
- Center of Advanced Technology for the Environment, Agricultural Faculty, Ehime University, Tarumi 3-5-7, Matsuyama 790-8566, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Tanabe
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, Bunkyo-cho 2-5, Matsuyama 790-8577, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Okeke ES, Okoye CO, Chidike Ezeorba TP, Mao G, Chen Y, Xu H, Song C, Feng W, Wu X. Emerging bio-dispersant and bioremediation technologies as environmentally friendly management responses toward marine oil spill: A comprehensive review. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 322:116123. [PMID: 36063698 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.116123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Marine oil spills emanating from wells, pipelines, freighters, tankers, and storage facilities draw public attention and necessitate quick and environmentally friendly response measures. It is sometimes feasible to contain the oil with booms and collect it with skimmers or burn it, but this is impracticable in many circumstances, and all that can be done without causing further environmental damage is adopting natural attenuation, particularly through microbial biodegradation. Biodegradation can be aided by carefully supplying biologically accessible nitrogen and phosphorus to alleviate some of the microbial growth constraints at the shoreline. This review discussed the characteristics of oil spills, origin, ecotoxicology, health impact of marine oils spills, and responses, including the variety of remedies and responses to oil spills using biological techniques. The different bioremediation and bio-dispersant treatment technologies are then described, with a focus on the use of green surfactants and their advances, benefits/drawbacks. These technologies were thoroughly explained, with a timeline of research and recent studies. Finally, the hurdles that persist as a result of spills are explored, as well as the measures that must be taken and the potential for the development of existing treatment technologies, all of which must be linked to the application of integrated procedures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Sunday Okeke
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, PR China; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, 41000, Nsukka Enugu State, Nigeria; Natural Science Unit, SGS, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, 41000, Nsukka Enugu State, Nigeria
| | - Charles Obinwanne Okoye
- Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, 41000, Nsukka Enugu State, Nigeria; Biofuel Institute, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, PR China
| | - Timothy Prince Chidike Ezeorba
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, 41000, Nsukka Enugu State, Nigeria
| | - Guanghua Mao
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, PR China
| | - Yao Chen
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, PR China
| | - Hai Xu
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, PR China
| | - Chang Song
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, PR China
| | - Weiwei Feng
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, PR China.
| | - Xiangyang Wu
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Rivera BN, Ghetu CC, Chang Y, Truong L, Tanguay RL, Anderson KA, Tilton SC. Leveraging Multiple Data Streams for Prioritization of Mixtures for Hazard Characterization. TOXICS 2022; 10:651. [PMID: 36355943 PMCID: PMC9699527 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10110651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
There is a growing need to establish alternative approaches for mixture safety assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Due to limitations with current component-based approaches, and the lack of established methods for using whole mixtures, a promising alternative is to use sufficiently similar mixtures; although, an established framework is lacking. In this study, several approaches are explored to form sufficiently similar mixtures. Multiple data streams including environmental concentrations and empirically and predicted toxicity data for cancer and non-cancer endpoints were used to prioritize chemical components for mixture formations. Air samplers were analyzed for unsubstituted and alkylated PAHs. A synthetic mixture of identified PAHs was created (Creosote-Fire Mix). Existing toxicity values and chemical concentrations were incorporated to identify hazardous components in the Creosote-Fire Mix. Sufficiently similar mixtures of the Creosote-Fire Mix were formed based on (1) relative abundance; (2) toxicity values; and (3) a combination approach incorporating toxicity and abundance. Hazard characterization of these mixtures was performed using high-throughput screening in primary normal human bronchial epithelium (NHBE) and zebrafish. Differences in chemical composition and potency were observed between mixture formation approaches. The toxicity-based approach (Tox Mix) was the most potent mixture in both models. The combination approach (Weighted-Tox Mix) was determined to be the ideal approach due its ability to prioritize chemicals with high exposure and hazard potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Susan C. Tilton
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Non-toxic carbon dots fluorescence sensor based on chitosan for sensitive and selective detection of Cr (VI) in water. Microchem J 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.microc.2022.107627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
|
17
|
Wilson LB, McClure RS, Waters KM, Simonich MT, Tanguay RL. Concentration-response gene expression analysis in zebrafish reveals phenotypically-anchored transcriptional responses to retene. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2022; 4:950503. [PMID: 36093370 PMCID: PMC9453431 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2022.950503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are ubiquitous environmental contaminants and are associated with human disease. Canonically, many PAHs induce toxicity via activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) pathway. While the interaction between PAHs and the AHR is well-established, understanding which AHR-regulated transcriptional effects directly result in observable phenotypes and which are adaptive or benign is important to better understand PAH toxicity. Retene is a frequently detected PAH in environmental sampling and has been associated with AHR2-dependent developmental toxicity in zebrafish, though its mechanism of toxicity has not been fully elucidated. To interrogate transcriptional changes causally associated with retene toxicity, we conducted whole-animal RNA sequencing at 48 h post-fertilization after exposure to eight retene concentrations. We aimed to identify the most sensitive transcriptomic responses and to determine whether this approach could uncover gene sets uniquely differentially expressed at concentrations which induce a phenotype. We identified a concentration-response relationship for differential gene expression in both number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and magnitude of expression change. Elevated expression of cyp1a at retene concentrations below the threshold for teratogenicity suggested that while cyp1a expression is a sensitive biomarker of AHR activation, it may be too sensitive to serve as a biomarker of teratogenicity. Genes differentially expressed at only non-teratogenic concentrations were enriched for transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathway disruption while DEGs identified at only teratogenic concentrations were significantly enriched for response to xenobiotic stimulus and reduction-oxidation reaction activity. DEGs which spanned both non-teratogenic and teratogenic concentrations showed similar disrupted biological processes to those unique to teratogenic concentrations, indicating these processes were disrupted at low exposure concentrations. Gene co-expression network analysis identified several gene modules, including those associated with PAHs and AHR2 activation. One, Module 7, was strongly enriched for AHR2-associated genes and contained the strongest responses to retene. Benchmark concentration (BMC) of Module seven genes identified a median BMC of 7.5 µM, nearly the highest retene concentration with no associated teratogenicity, supporting the hypothesis that Module seven genes are largely responsible for retene toxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay B. Wilson
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Ryan S. McClure
- Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, United States
| | - Katrina M. Waters
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, United States
| | - Michael T. Simonich
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Robyn L. Tanguay
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- *Correspondence: Robyn L. Tanguay,
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Della Torre C, Liberatori G, Ghilardi A, Del Giacco L, Puccini M, Ferraro F, Vitolo S, Corsi I. The zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryo-larval contact assay combined with biochemical biomarkers and swimming performance in sewage sludge and hydrochar hazard assessment. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 302:119053. [PMID: 35227847 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Hydrothermal carbonization is considered a powerful technology to convert sewage sludge (SS) into a valuable carbonaceous solid known as hydrochar (HC). Up to now criteria for landfill application of SS and HC are based only on physicochemical properties and levels of pollutant residues. Nevertheless, to ensure their safe environmental applications it is mandatory to develop biosensors which can provide relevant information on their toxic potential for natural ecosystems. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the suitability of a contact assay using zebrafish embryo/larvae combined with sub-lethal end-points to evaluate the hazard associated with SS and related HC exposure. A suite of biomarkers was also applied on larvae, related to detoxification and oxidative stress as the activity of Ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase, glutathione-S-transferase, and catalase, the content of reactive oxygen species and the behavioral assay using the DanioVision™ chamber. Legacy priority pollutants were also measured either in SS and HC tested samples and in contact waters. The exposure to SS caused higher lethality compared to HC. No significant changes in the activity of oxidative stress markers was observed upon exposure to both matrices. The behavioral test showed a hypoactivity condition in larvae exposed to both SS and HC with the effects of SS stronger than HC. Chemical analysis revealed the presence of trace elements and halogenated compounds in either SS, HC. Heavy metals were also released in contact waters, while volatile hydrocarbons (C6-C10) and halogenated compounds resulted below LOD (<0.05 μ L-1). Our study highlights the suitability of zebrafish embryotoxicity test, coupled with behavioral traits, as screening tool for assessing potential risks, associated with the landfill application of both SS and HC, for aquatic wildlife.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Giulia Liberatori
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Anna Ghilardi
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milano, Milano, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Luca Del Giacco
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Monica Puccini
- Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Ferraro
- Laboratori pH - Gruppo TÜV SÜD, Loc. Sambuca Tavarnelle Val Di Pesa, Italy
| | - Sandra Vitolo
- Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Ilaria Corsi
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Shankar P, Garcia GR, LaDu JK, Sullivan CM, Dunham CL, Goodale BC, Waters KM, Stanisheuski S, Maier CS, Thunga P, Reif DM, Tanguay RL. The Ahr2-Dependent wfikkn1 Gene Influences Zebrafish Transcriptome, Proteome, and Behavior. Toxicol Sci 2022; 187:325-344. [PMID: 35377459 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfac037] [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: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is required for vertebrate development and is also activated by exogenous chemicals, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and TCDD. AHR activation is well-understood, but roles of downstream molecular signaling events are largely unknown. From previous transcriptomics in 48-hours post fertilization (hpf) zebrafish exposed to several PAHs and TCDD, we found wfikkn1 was highly co-expressed with cyp1a (marker for AHR activation). Thus, we hypothesized wfikkn1's role in AHR signaling, and showed that wfikkn1 expression was Ahr2 (zebrafish ortholog of human AHR)-dependent in developing zebrafish exposed to TCDD. To functionally characterize wfikkn1, we made a CRISPR-Cas9 mutant line with a 16-bp deletion in wfikkn1's exon, and exposed wildtype and mutants to DMSO or TCDD. 48-hpf mRNA sequencing revealed over 700 genes that were differentially expressed (p < 0.05, log2FC > 1) between each pair of treatment combinations, suggesting an important role for wfikkn1 in altering both the 48-hpf transcriptome and TCDD-induced expression changes. Mass spectrometry-based proteomics of 48-hpf wildtype and mutants revealed 325 significant differentially expressed proteins. Functional enrichment demonstrated wfikkn1 was involved in skeletal muscle development and played a role in neurological pathways after TCDD exposure. Mutant zebrafish appeared morphologically normal but had significant behavior deficiencies at all life stages, and absence of Wfikkn1 did not significantly alter TCDD-induced behavior effects at all life stages. In conclusion, wfikkn1 did not appear to be significantly involved in TCDD's overt toxicity but is likely a necessary functional member of the AHR signaling cascade.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prarthana Shankar
- The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA OR 97331
| | - Gloria R Garcia
- The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA OR 97331
| | - Jane K LaDu
- The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA OR 97331
| | - Christopher M Sullivan
- The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA OR 97331
| | - Cheryl L Dunham
- The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA OR 97331
| | - Britton C Goodale
- Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756 USA
| | - Katrina M Waters
- The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA OR 97331.,Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest Laboratory, 902 Battelle Boulevard, Richland, P.O. Box 999, USA WA 99352
| | | | - Claudia S Maier
- Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97330, USA
| | - Preethi Thunga
- Bioinformatics Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - David M Reif
- Bioinformatics Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Robyn L Tanguay
- The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA OR 97331
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Karim N, Lin LW, Van Eenennaam JP, Fangue NA, Schreier AD, Phillips MA, Rice RH. Epidermal cell cultures from white and green sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus and medirostris): Expression of TGM1-like transglutaminases and CYP4501A. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0265218. [PMID: 35294467 PMCID: PMC8926185 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Using a system optimized for propagating human keratinocytes, culture of skin samples from white and green sturgeons generated epithelial cells capable of making cross-linked protein envelopes. Two distinct forms of TGM1-like mRNA were molecularly cloned from the cells of white sturgeon and detected in green sturgeon cells, accounting for their cellular envelope forming ability. The protein translated from each displayed a cluster of cysteine residues resembling the membrane anchorage region expressed in epidermal cells of teleosts and tetrapods. One of the two mRNA forms (called A) was present at considerably higher levels than the other (called B) in both species. Continuous lines of white sturgeon epidermal cells were established and characterized. Size measurements indicated that a substantial fraction of the cells became enlarged, appearing similar to squames in human epidermal keratinocyte cultures. The cultures also expressed CYP1A, a cytochrome P450 enzyme inducible by activation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor 2 in fish. The cells gradually improved in growth rate over a dozen passages while retaining envelope forming ability, TGM1 expression and CYP1A inducibility. These cell lines are thus potential models for studying evolution of fish epidermis leading to terrestrial adaptation and for testing sturgeon sensitivity to environmental stresses such as pollution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noreen Karim
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Lo-Wei Lin
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Joel P. Van Eenennaam
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Nann A. Fangue
- Department of Wildlife, Fish and Conservation Biology, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Andrea D. Schreier
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Marjorie A. Phillips
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Robert H. Rice
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Zhang W, Xie HQ, Li Y, Zhou M, Zhou Z, Wang R, Hahn ME, Zhao B. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor: A predominant mediator for the toxicity of emerging dioxin-like compounds. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 426:128084. [PMID: 34952507 PMCID: PMC9039345 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.128084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a member of the basic helix-loop-helix/Per-ARNT-Sim (bHLH-PAS) family of transcription factors and has broad biological functions. Early after the identification of the AHR, most studies focused on its roles in regulating the expression of drug-metabolizing enzymes and mediating the toxicity of dioxins and dioxin-like compounds (DLCs). Currently, more diverse functions of AHR have been identified, indicating that AHR is not just a dioxin receptor. Dioxins and DLCs occur ubiquitously and have diverse health/ecological risks. Additional research is required to identify both shared and compound-specific mechanisms, especially for emerging DLCs such as polyhalogenated carbazoles (PHCZs), polychlorinated diphenyl sulfides (PCDPSs), and others, of which only a few investigations have been performed at present. Many of the toxic effects of emerging DLCs were observed to be predominantly mediated by the AHR because of their structural similarity as dioxins, and the in vitro TCDD-relative potencies of certain emerging DLC congeners are comparable to or even greater than the WHO-TEFs of OctaCDD, OctaCDF, and most coplanar PCBs. Due to the close relationship between AHR biology and environmental science, this review begins by providing novel insights into AHR signaling (canonical and non-canonical), AHR's biochemical properties (AHR structure, AHR-ligand interaction, AHR-DNA binding), and the variations during AHR transactivation. Then, AHR ligand classification and the corresponding mechanisms are discussed, especially the shared and compound-specific, AHR-mediated effects and mechanisms of emerging DLCs. Accordingly, a series of in vivo and in vitro toxicity evaluation methods based on the AHR signaling pathway are reviewed. In light of current advances, future research on traditional and emerging DLCs will enhance our understanding of their mechanisms, toxicity, potency, and ecological impacts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wanglong Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, Qufu, Shandong 273165, China
| | - Heidi Qunhui Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yunping Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Mingxi Zhou
- Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences v.v.i, Institute of Plant Molecular Biology, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Zhiguang Zhou
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Dioxin Pollution Control, National Research Center for Environmental Analysis and Measurement, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Renjun Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, Qufu, Shandong 273165, China
| | - Mark E Hahn
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA; Boston University Superfund Research Program, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Bin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Eriksson ANM, Rigaud C, Krasnov A, Wincent E, Vehniäinen ER. Exposure to retene, fluoranthene, and their binary mixture causes distinct transcriptomic and apical outcomes in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) yolk sac alevins. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2022; 244:106083. [PMID: 35085954 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2022.106083] [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: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are widely spread environmental contaminants which affect developing organisms. It is known that improper activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) by some PAHs contributes to toxicity, while other PAHs can disrupt cellular membrane function. The exact downstream mechanisms of AhR activation remain unresolved, especially with regard to cardiotoxicity. By exposing newly hatched rainbow trout alevins (Oncorhynchus mykiss) semi-statically to retene (32 µg l-1; AhR agonist), fluoranthene (50 µg l-1; weak AhR agonist and CYP1a inhibitor) and their binary mixture for 1, 3, 7 and 14 days, we aimed to uncover novel mechanisms of cardiotoxicity using a targeted microarray approach. At the end of the exposure, standard length, yolk area, blue sac disease (BSD) index and PAH body burden were measured, while the hearts were prepared for microarray analysis. Each exposure produced a unique toxicity profile. We observed that retene and the mixture, but not fluoranthene, significantly reduced growth by Day 14 compared to the control, while exposure to the mixture increased the BSD-index significantly from Day 3 onward. Body burden profiles were PAH-specific and correlated well with the exposure-specific upregulations of genes encoding for phase I and II enzymes. Exposure to the mixture over-represented pathways related to growth, amino acid and xenobiotic metabolism and oxidative stress responses. Alevins exposed to the individual PAHs displayed over-represented pathways involved in receptor signaling: retene downregulated genes with a role in G-protein signaling, while fluoranthene upregulated those involved in GABA signaling. Furthermore, exposure to retene and fluoranthene altered the expression of genes encoding for proteins involved in calcium- and potassium ion channels, which suggests affected heart structure and function. This study provides deeper understanding of the complexity of PAH toxicity and the necessity of investigating PAHs as mixtures and not as individual components.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas N M Eriksson
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35, Jyväskylä FI-40014, Finland.
| | - Cyril Rigaud
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35, Jyväskylä FI-40014, Finland
| | - Aleksei Krasnov
- Fisheries and Aquaculture Research, Norwegian Institute of Food, Ås, Norway
| | - Emma Wincent
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eeva-Riikka Vehniäinen
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35, Jyväskylä FI-40014, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Rericha Y, Cao D, Truong L, Simonich MT, Field JA, Tanguay RL. Sulfonamide functional head on short-chain perfluorinated substance drives developmental toxicity. iScience 2022; 25:103789. [PMID: 35146398 PMCID: PMC8819378 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.103789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are ubiquitously detected in environmental and biological samples and cause adverse health effects. Studies have predominately focused on long-chain PFAS, with far fewer addressing short-chain alternatives. This study leveraged embryonic zebrafish to investigate developmental toxicity of a short-chain series: perfluorobutane sulfonate (PFBS), perfluoropentanoic acid (PFPeA), perfluorobutane sulfonamide (FBSA), and 4:2 fluorotelomer sulfonic acid (4:2 FTS). Following static exposures at 8 h postfertilization (hpf) to each chemical (1-100 μM), morphological and behavioral endpoints were assessed at 24 and 120 hpf. Only FBSA induced abnormal morphology, while exposure to all chemicals caused aberrant larval behavior. RNA sequencing at 48 hpf following 47 μM exposures revealed only FBSA significantly disrupted normal gene expression. Measured tissue concentrations were FBSA > PFBS > 4:2 FTS > PFPeA. This study demonstrates functional head groups impact bioactivity and bioconcentration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne Rericha
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA.,Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA
| | - Dunping Cao
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA
| | - Lisa Truong
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA.,Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA
| | - Michael T Simonich
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA.,Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA
| | - Jennifer A Field
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA
| | - Robyn L Tanguay
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA.,Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Shankar P, McClure RS, Waters KM, Tanguay RL. Gene co-expression network analysis in zebrafish reveals chemical class specific modules. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:658. [PMID: 34517816 PMCID: PMC8438978 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-07940-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zebrafish is a popular animal model used for high-throughput screening of chemical hazards, however, investigations of transcriptomic mechanisms of toxicity are still needed. Here, our goal was to identify genes and biological pathways that Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor 2 (AHR2) Activators and flame retardant chemicals (FRCs) alter in developing zebrafish. Taking advantage of a compendium of phenotypically-anchored RNA sequencing data collected from 48-h post fertilization (hpf) zebrafish, we inferred a co-expression network that grouped genes based on their transcriptional response. RESULTS Genes responding to the FRCs and AHR2 Activators localized to distinct regions of the network, with FRCs inducing a broader response related to neurobehavior. AHR2 Activators centered in one region related to chemical stress responses. We also discovered several highly co-expressed genes in this module, including cyp1a, and we subsequently show that these genes are definitively within the AHR2 signaling pathway. Systematic removal of the two chemical types from the data, and analysis of network changes identified neurogenesis associated with FRCs, and regulation of vascular development associated with both chemical classes. We also identified highly connected genes responding specifically to each class that are potential biomarkers of exposure. CONCLUSIONS Overall, we created the first zebrafish chemical-specific gene co-expression network illuminating how chemicals alter the transcriptome relative to each other. In addition to our conclusions regarding FRCs and AHR2 Activators, our network can be leveraged by other studies investigating chemical mechanisms of toxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prarthana Shankar
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, 28645 East Highway 34, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Ryan S McClure
- Biological Sciences Division, Pacific National Northwest Laboratory, 902 Battelle Boulevard, P.O. Box 999, Richland, WA, 99352, USA
| | - Katrina M Waters
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, 28645 East Highway 34, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA.,Biological Sciences Division, Pacific National Northwest Laboratory, 902 Battelle Boulevard, P.O. Box 999, Richland, WA, 99352, USA
| | - Robyn L Tanguay
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, 28645 East Highway 34, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Baines RP, Wolton K, Thompson CRL. Dictyostelium discoideum: an alternative non-animal model for developmental toxicity testing. Toxicol Sci 2021; 183:302-318. [PMID: 34387693 PMCID: PMC8538044 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfab097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A critical aspect of toxicity evaluation is developmental and reproductive toxicity (DART) testing. Traditionally, DART testing has been conducted in vivo in mammalian model systems. New legislation aimed at reducing animal use and the prohibitive costs associated with DART testing, together with a need to understand the genetic pathways underlying developmental toxicity means there is a growing demand for alternative model systems for toxicity evaluation. Here we explore the potential of the eukaryotic social amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum, which is already widely used as a simple model system for cell and developmental biology, as a potential nonanimal model for DART testing. We developed assays for high-throughput screening of toxicity during D. discoideum growth and development. This allowed the toxicity of a broad range of test compounds to be characterized, which revealed that D. discoideum can broadly predict mammalian toxicity. In addition, we show that this system can be used to perform functional genomic screens to compare the molecular modes of action of different compounds. For example, genome-wide screens for mutations that affect lithium and valproic acid toxicity allowed common and unique biological targets and molecular processes mediating their toxicity to be identified. These studies illustrate that D. discoideum could represent a predictive nonanimal model for DART testing due to its amenability to high-throughput approaches and molecular genetic tractability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert P Baines
- Centre for Life's Origins and Evolution, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, Darwin Building, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Kathryn Wolton
- Syngenta, Jealott's Hill International Research Centre, RG42 6EY Bracknell, Berkshire
| | - Christopher R L Thompson
- Centre for Life's Origins and Evolution, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, Darwin Building, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Zhu H, Wang S, Shan C, Li X, Tan B, Chen Q, Yang Y, Yu H, Yang A. Mechanism of protective effect of xuan-bai-cheng-qi decoction on LPS-induced acute lung injury based on an integrated network pharmacology and RNA-sequencing approach. Respir Res 2021; 22:188. [PMID: 34183011 PMCID: PMC8237774 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-021-01781-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Xuan-bai-cheng-qi decoction (XCD), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescription, has been widely used to treat a variety of respiratory diseases in China, especially to seriously infectious diseases such as acute lung injury (ALI). Due to the complexity of the chemical constituent, however, the underlying pharmacological mechanism of action of XCD is still unclear. To explore its protective mechanism on ALI, firstly, a network pharmacology experiment was conducted to construct a component-target network of XCD, which identified 46 active components and 280 predicted target genes. Then, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was used to screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between ALI model rats treated with and without XCD and 753 DEGs were found. By overlapping the target genes identified using network pharmacology and DEGs using RNA-seq, and subsequent protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, 6 kernel targets such as vascular epidermal growth factor (VEGF), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), AKT1, hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and gene of phosphate and tension homology deleted on chromsome ten (PTEN) were screened out to be closely relevant to ALI treatment. Verification experiments in the LPS-induced ALI model rats showed that XCD could alleviate lung tissue pathological injury through attenuating proinflammatory cytokines release such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-1β. Meanwhile, both the mRNA and protein expression levels of PI3K, mTOR, HIF-1α, and VEGF in the lung tissues were down-regulated with XCD treatment. Therefore, the regulations of XCD on PI3K/mTOR/HIF-1α/VEGF signaling pathway was probably a crucial mechanism involved in the protective mechanism of XCD on ALI treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huahe Zhu
- School of Basic Medical Science, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Shun Wang
- School of Basic Medical Science, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Cong Shan
- School of Basic Medical Science, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xiaoqian Li
- School of Basic Medical Science, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Bo Tan
- Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Qilong Chen
- Center for Research and Interdisciplinary, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yunxiang Yang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, 301617, China
| | - Hongji Yu
- School of Basic Medical Science, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Aidong Yang
- School of Basic Medical Science, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Guzzolino E, Milella MS, Forini F, Borsò M, Rutigliano G, Gorini F, Zucchi R, Saba A, Bianchi F, Iervasi G, Pitto L. Thyroid disrupting effects of low-dose dibenzothiophene and cadmium in single or concurrent exposure: New evidence from a translational zebrafish model. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 769:144703. [PMID: 33486188 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.144703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Thyroid hormones (THs) are major regulators of biological processes essential for correct development and energy homeostasis. Although thyroid disruptors can deeply affect human health, the impact of exogenous chemicals and in particular mixture of chemicals on different aspects of thyroid development and metabolism is not yet fully understood. In this study we have used the highly versatile zebrafish model to assess the thyroid axis disrupting effects of cadmium (Cd) and dibenzothiophene (DBT), two environmental endocrine disruptors found to be significantly correlated in epidemiological co-exposure studies. Zebrafish embryos (5hpf) were exposed to low concentrations of Cd (from 0.05 to 2 μM) and DBT (from 0.05 to 1 μM) and to mixtures of them. A multilevel assessment of the pollutant effects has been obtained by combining in vivo morphological analyses allowed by the use of transgenic fluorescent lines with liquid chromatography mass spectrometry determination of TH levels and quantification of the expression levels of key genes involved in the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Thyroid Axis (HPTA) and TH metabolism. Our results underscore for the first time an important synergistic toxic effect of these pollutants on embryonic development and thyroid morphology highlighting differences in the mechanisms through which they can adversely impact on multiple physiological processes of the HPTA and TH disposal influencing also heart geometry and function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Guzzolino
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - M S Milella
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - F Forini
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - M Borsò
- Department of Pathology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - G Rutigliano
- Department of Pathology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - F Gorini
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - R Zucchi
- Department of Pathology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - A Saba
- Department of Pathology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - F Bianchi
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - G Iervasi
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - L Pitto
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
St Mary L, Trine LSD, Roper C, Wiley J, Massey Simonich SL, McCoustra M, Henry TB. Time-Related Alteration of Aqueous-Phase Anthracene and Phenanthrene Photoproducts in the Presence of TiO 2 Nanoparticles. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:3727-3735. [PMID: 33651588 PMCID: PMC9811996 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c07488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (NPs) are photoactive environmental pollutants that can contaminate aquatic environments. Aqueous-phase interactions between PAHs and TiO2-NPs are of interest due to their emerging environmental relevance, particularly with the deliberate application of TiO2-NPs to remediate pollution events (e.g., oil spills). Our objective was to investigate anthracene (ANT) and phenanthrene (PHE) photoproduct formation and transformation following ultraviolet A (UVA) irradiation in the presence and absence of TiO2-NPs. ANT and PHE solutions were prepared alone or in combination with TiO2-NPs, UVA-irradiated, and either exposed to larval zebrafish or collected for chemical analyses of diverse hydroxylated PAHs (OHPAHs) and oxygenated PAHs (OPAHs). The expression profiles of genes encoding for enzymes involved in PAH metabolism showed PAH-specific and time-dependent inductions that demonstrated changes in PAH and photoproduct bioavailability in the presence of TiO2-NPs. Chemical analyses of PAH/NP solutions in the absence of zebrafish larvae identified diverse photoproducts of differing size and ring arrangements, which suggested photodissociation, recombination, and ring re-arrangements of PAHs occurred either during or following UVA irradiation. Both ANT and PHE solutions showed heightened oxidative potential following irradiation, but TiO2-NP-related increases in oxidative potential were PAH-specific. The exploitation of multiple analytical methods provided novel insights into distinct PAH photoactivity, TiO2-NP influence on photoproduct formation in a PAH-specific manner, and the significant role time plays in photochemical processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey St Mary
- Institute of Life and Earth Sciences, School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure, and Society, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, U.K
| | - Lisandra S D Trine
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331, United States
| | - Courtney Roper
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331, United States
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, University, Mississippi 38677, United States
| | - Jackson Wiley
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331, United States
| | - Staci L Massey Simonich
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331, United States
| | - Martin McCoustra
- Institute of Chemical Sciences, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, U.K
| | - Theodore B Henry
- Institute of Life and Earth Sciences, School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure, and Society, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, U.K
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Shankar P, Dasgupta S, Hahn ME, Tanguay RL. A Review of the Functional Roles of the Zebrafish Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptors. Toxicol Sci 2020; 178:215-238. [PMID: 32976604 PMCID: PMC7706399 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfaa143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last 2 decades, the zebrafish (Danio rerio) has emerged as a stellar model for unraveling molecular signaling events mediated by the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), an important ligand-activated receptor found in all eumetazoan animals. Zebrafish have 3 AHRs-AHR1a, AHR1b, and AHR2, and studies have demonstrated the diversity of both the endogenous and toxicological functions of the zebrafish AHRs. In this contemporary review, we first highlight the evolution of the zebrafish ahr genes, and the characteristics of the receptors including developmental and adult expression, their endogenous and inducible roles, and the predicted ligands from homology modeling studies. We then review the toxicity of a broad spectrum of AHR ligands across multiple life stages (early stage, and adult), discuss their transcriptomic and epigenetic mechanisms of action, and report on any known interactions between the AHRs and other signaling pathways. Through this article, we summarize the promising research that furthers our understanding of the complex AHR pathway through the extensive use of zebrafish as a model, coupled with a large array of molecular techniques. As much of the research has focused on the functions of AHR2 during development and the mechanism of TCDD (2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin) toxicity, we illustrate the need to address the considerable knowledge gap in our understanding of both the mechanistic roles of AHR1a and AHR1b, and the diverse modes of toxicity of the various AHR ligands.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prarthana Shankar
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331
| | - Subham Dasgupta
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331
| | - Mark E Hahn
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543
| | - Robyn L Tanguay
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Rigaud C, Eriksson A, Krasnov A, Wincent E, Pakkanen H, Lehtivuori H, Ihalainen J, Vehniäinen ER. Retene, pyrene and phenanthrene cause distinct molecular-level changes in the cardiac tissue of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) larvae, part 1 - Transcriptomics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 745:141031. [PMID: 32738692 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are contaminants of concern that impact every sphere of the environment. Despite several decades of research, their mechanisms of toxicity are still poorly understood. This study explores the mechanisms of cardiotoxicity of the three widespread model PAHs retene, pyrene and phenanthrene in the rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) early life stages. Newly hatched larvae were exposed to each individual compound at sublethal doses causing no significant increase in the prevalence of deformities. Changes in the cardiac transcriptome were assessed after 1, 3, 7 and 14 days of exposure using custom Salmo salar microarrays. The highest number of differentially expressed genes was observed after 1 or 3 days of exposure, and retene was the most potent compound in that regard. Over-representation analyses suggested that genes related to cardiac ion channels, calcium homeostasis and muscle contraction (actin binding, troponin and myosin complexes) were especially targeted by retene. Pyrene was also able to alter similar myosin-related genes, but at a different timing and in an opposite direction, suggesting compound-specific mechanisms of toxicity. Pyrene and to a lesser extent phenanthrene were altering key genes linked to the respiratory electron transport chain and to oxygen and iron metabolism. Overall, phenanthrene was not very potent in inducing changes in the cardiac transcriptome despite being apparently metabolized at a slower rate than retene and pyrene. The present study shows that exposure to different PAHs during the first few days of the swim-up stage can alter the expression of key genes involved into the cardiac development and function, which could potentially affect negatively the fitness of the larvae in the long term.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cyril Rigaud
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland.
| | - Andreas Eriksson
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Aleksei Krasnov
- Norwegian Institute of Food, Fisheries and Aquaculture Research, Ås, Norway
| | - Emma Wincent
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hannu Pakkanen
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Heli Lehtivuori
- Department of Physics, Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Janne Ihalainen
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Eeva-Riikka Vehniäinen
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Garland MA, Reynolds K, Zhou CJ. Environmental mechanisms of orofacial clefts. Birth Defects Res 2020; 112:1660-1698. [PMID: 33125192 PMCID: PMC7902093 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Orofacial clefts (OFCs) are among the most common birth defects and impart a significant burden on afflicted individuals and their families. It is increasingly understood that many nonsyndromic OFCs are a consequence of extrinsic factors, genetic susceptibilities, and interactions of the two. Therefore, understanding the environmental mechanisms of OFCs is important in the prevention of future cases. This review examines the molecular mechanisms associated with environmental factors that either protect against or increase the risk of OFCs. We focus on essential metabolic pathways, environmental signaling mechanisms, detoxification pathways, behavioral risk factors, and biological hazards that may disrupt orofacial development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael A. Garland
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine of Shriners Hospitals for Children, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817
| | - Kurt Reynolds
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine of Shriners Hospitals for Children, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817
- Biochemistry, Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (BMCDB) graduate group, University of California, Davis, CA 95616
| | - Chengji J. Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine of Shriners Hospitals for Children, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817
- Biochemistry, Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (BMCDB) graduate group, University of California, Davis, CA 95616
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Vondráček J, Pěnčíková K, Ciganek M, Pivnička J, Karasová M, Hýžďalová M, Strapáčová S, Pálková L, Neča J, Matthews J, Lom MV, Topinka J, Milcová A, Machala M. Environmental six-ring polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are potent inducers of the AhR-dependent signaling in human cells. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 266:115125. [PMID: 32679438 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The toxicities of many environmental polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), in particular those of high-molecular-weight PAHs (with MW higher than 300), remain poorly characterized. The objective of this study was to evaluate the ability of selected environmentally relevant PAHs with MW 302 (MW302 PAHs) to activate the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), since this represents a major toxic mode of action of PAHs. A large number of the evaluated compounds exhibited strong AhR-mediated activities, in particular in human models. The studied MW302 PAHs also significantly contributed to the overall calculated AhR activities of complex environmental mixtures, including both defined standard reference materials and collected diesel exhaust particles. The high AhR-mediated activities of representative MW302 PAHs, e.g. naphtho[1,2-k]fluoranthene, corresponded with the modulation of expression of relevant AhR target genes in a human lung cell model, or with the AhR-dependent suppression of cell cycle progression/proliferation in estrogen-sensitive cells. This was in a marked contrast with the limited genotoxicity of the same compound(s). Given the substantial levels of the AhR-activating MW302 PAHs in combustion particles, it seems important to continue to investigate the toxic modes of action of this large group of PAHs associated with airborne particulate matter.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Vondráček
- Department of Cytokinetics, Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Královopolská 135, 61265 Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Kateřina Pěnčíková
- Department of Chemistry and Toxicology, Veterinary Research Institute, Hudcova 70, 62100 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Ciganek
- Department of Chemistry and Toxicology, Veterinary Research Institute, Hudcova 70, 62100 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jakub Pivnička
- Department of Cytokinetics, Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Královopolská 135, 61265 Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 61137 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Karasová
- Department of Cytokinetics, Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Královopolská 135, 61265 Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 61137 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Hýžďalová
- Department of Cytokinetics, Institute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Královopolská 135, 61265 Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Chemistry and Toxicology, Veterinary Research Institute, Hudcova 70, 62100 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Simona Strapáčová
- Department of Chemistry and Toxicology, Veterinary Research Institute, Hudcova 70, 62100 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Lenka Pálková
- Department of Chemistry and Toxicology, Veterinary Research Institute, Hudcova 70, 62100 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Neča
- Department of Chemistry and Toxicology, Veterinary Research Institute, Hudcova 70, 62100 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jason Matthews
- Department of Nutrition, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Sognsvannsveien 9, 0372 Oslo, Norway; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, M5S 1A8 Toronto, Canada
| | - Michal Vojtíšek Lom
- Center for Sustainable Mobility, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Czech Technical University in Prague, Technická 4, 160 00 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Topinka
- Department of Genetic Toxicology and Nanotoxicology, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, 142 20 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Alena Milcová
- Department of Genetic Toxicology and Nanotoxicology, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, 142 20 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Machala
- Department of Chemistry and Toxicology, Veterinary Research Institute, Hudcova 70, 62100 Brno, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Cunha V, Vogs C, Le Bihanic F, Dreij K. Mixture effects of oxygenated PAHs and benzo[a]pyrene on cardiovascular development and function in zebrafish embryos. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 143:105913. [PMID: 32615350 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic compounds (PACs), including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and oxygenated PAHs (oxy-PAHs), are common environmental pollutants known to cause health effects in humans and wild-life. In particular, vertebrate cardiovascular development and function are sensitive to PACs. However, the interactive effects of PAHs and oxy-PAHs on cardiovascular endpoints have not been well studied. In this study, we used zebrafish embryos (ZFEs) as a model to examine developmental and cardiovascular toxicities induced by the three environmental oxy-PAHs benzo[a]fluorenone (BFLO), 4H-cyclopenta[def]phenanthren-4-one (4H-CPO) and, 6H-benzo[cd]pyren-6-one (6H-BPO), and the PAH benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) either as single exposures or binary oxy-PAH + PAH mixtures. 6H-BPO induced developmental and cardiovascular toxicity, including reduced heartbeat rate and blood flow, at lower doses compared to the other compounds. Exposure to binary mixtures generally caused enhanced toxicity and induction of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR)-regulated gene expression (ahr2 and cyp1a) compared to single compound exposure. This was associated with differential expression of genes involved in cardiovascular development and function including atp2a2, myh6, tbx5 and zerg. AhR-knock-down significantly reduced the cardiovascular toxicity of 6H-BPO and its binary mixture with BaP indicating a significant AhR-dependence of the effects. Measurements of internal concentrations showed that the toxicokinetics of BaP and 6H-BPO were altered in the binary mixture compared to the single compound exposure, and most likely due to CYP1 inhibition by 6H-BPO. Altogether, these data support that similar to interactions between PAHs, mixtures of PAHs and oxy-PAHs may cause increased developmental and cardiovascular toxicity in ZFEs through an AhR-dependent mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Virgínia Cunha
- Unit of Biochemical Toxicology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Box 210, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carolina Vogs
- Unit of Integrative Toxicology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Box 210, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; Pharmacology and Toxicology Unit, Department of Biomedical Science and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7028, 750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Florane Le Bihanic
- Unit of Biochemical Toxicology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Box 210, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristian Dreij
- Unit of Biochemical Toxicology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Box 210, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Aranguren-Abadía L, Donald CE, Eilertsen M, Gharbi N, Tronci V, Sørhus E, Mayer P, Nilsen TO, Meier S, Goksøyr A, Karlsen OA. Expression and localization of the aryl hydrocarbon receptors and cytochrome P450 1A during early development of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua). AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2020; 226:105558. [PMID: 32673888 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2020.105558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (Ahr) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that mediates the toxicity of dioxins and dioxin-like compounds (DLCs) in vertebrates. Two clades of the Ahr family exist in teleosts (Ahr1 and Ahr2), and it has been demonstrated that Ahr2 is the main protein involved in mediating the toxicity of dioxins and DLCs in most teleost species. Recently, we characterized the Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) Ahr1a and Ahr2a receptors. To further explore a possible subfunction partitioning of Ahr1a and Ahr2a in Atlantic cod we have mapped the expression and localization of ahr1a and ahr2a in early developmental stages. Atlantic cod embryos were continuously exposed in a passive-dosing exposure system to the Ahr agonist, benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P), from five days post fertilization (dpf) until three days post hatching (dph). Expression of ahr1a, ahr2a, and the Ahr-target genes, cyp1a and ahrrb, was assessed in embryos (8 dpf and 10 dpf) and larvae (3 dph) with quantitative real-time PCR analyses (qPCR), while in situ hybridization was used to assess the localization of expression of ahr1a, ahr2a and cyp1a. Quantitative measurements showed an increased cyp1a expression in B[a]P-exposed samples at all sampling points, and for ahr2a at 10 dpf, confirming the activation of the Ahr-signalling pathway. Furthermore, B[a]P strongly induced ahr2a and cyp1a expression in the cardiovascular system and skin, respectively, of embryos and larvae. Induced expression of both ahr2a and cyp1a was also revealed in the liver of B[a]P-exposed larvae. Our results suggest that Ahr2a is the major subtype involved in mediating responses to B[a]P in early developmental stages of Atlantic cod, which involves transcriptional regulation of biotransformation genes, such as cyp1a. The focused expression of ahr1a in the eye of embryos and larvae, and the presence of ahr2a transcripts in the jaws and fin nodes, further indicate evolved specialized roles of the two Ahrs in ontogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mariann Eilertsen
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Naouel Gharbi
- NORCE Norwegian Research Centre AS, Uni Research Environment, Bergen, Norway
| | - Valentina Tronci
- NORCE Norwegian Research Centre AS, Uni Research Environment, Bergen, Norway
| | - Elin Sørhus
- Institute of Marine Research, Bergen, Norway
| | - Philipp Mayer
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Tom Ole Nilsen
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Anders Goksøyr
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway; Institute of Marine Research, Bergen, Norway
| | - Odd André Karlsen
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Mullen KR, Rivera BN, Tidwell LG, Ivanek R, Anderson KA, Ainsworth DM. Environmental surveillance and adverse neonatal health outcomes in foals born near unconventional natural gas development activity. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 731:138497. [PMID: 32434096 PMCID: PMC7430053 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.138497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Studies of neonatal health risks of unconventional natural gas development (UNGD) have not included comprehensive assessments of environmental chemical exposures. We investigated a clustering of dysphagic cases in neonatal foals born between 2014 and 2016 in an area of active UNGD in Pennsylvania (PA),USA. We evaluated equine biological data and environmental exposures on the affected PA farm and an unaffected New York (NY) farm owned by the same proprietor. Dams either spent their entire gestation on one farm or moved to the other farm in late gestation. Over the 21-month study period, physical examinations and blood/tissue samples were obtained from mares and foals on each farm. Grab samples of water, pasture soil and feed were collected; continuous passive sampling of air and water for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons was performed. Dysphagia was evaluated as a binary variable; logistic regression was used to identify risk factors. Sixty-five foals were born, 17 (all from PA farm) were dysphagic. Odds of dysphagia increased with the dam residing on the PA farm for each additional month of gestation (OR = 1.4, 95% CI 1.2, 1.7, p = 6.0E-04). Males were more likely to be born dysphagic (OR = 5.5, 95% CI 1.2, 24.5, p = 0.03) than females. Prior to installation of a water filtration/treatment system, PA water concentrations of 3,6-dimethylphenanthrene (p = 6.0E-03), fluoranthene (p = 0.03), pyrene (p = 0.02) and triphenylene (p = 0.01) exceeded those in NY water. Compared to NY farm water, no concentrations of PAHs were higher in PA following installation of the water filtration/treatment system. We provide evidence of an uncommon adverse health outcome (dysphagia) in foals born near UNGD that was eliminated in subsequent years (2017-2019) following environmental management changes. Notably, this study demonstrates that domestic large animals such as horses can serve as important sentinels for human health risks associated with UNGD activities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen R Mullen
- Littleton Equine Medical Center, 8025 S. Santa Fe Dr., Littleton, CO 80120, USA; Department of Clinical Sciences, Tower Rd., College of Veterinary Medicine-Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
| | - Brianna N Rivera
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Agricultural Life Sciences, Room 1007, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA.
| | - Lane G Tidwell
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Agricultural Life Sciences, Room 1007, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA.
| | - Renata Ivanek
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Tower Rd., College of Veterinary Medicine-Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
| | - Kim A Anderson
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Agricultural Life Sciences, Room 1007, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA.
| | - Dorothy M Ainsworth
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Tower Rd., College of Veterinary Medicine-Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Trevisan R, Uzochukwu D, Di Giulio RT. PAH SORPTION TO NANOPLASTICS AND THE TROJAN HORSE EFFECT AS DRIVERS OF MITOCHONDRIAL TOXICITY AND PAH LOCALIZATION IN ZEBRAFISH. FRONTIERS IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE 2020; 8:78. [PMID: 34322495 PMCID: PMC8315355 DOI: 10.3389/fenvs.2020.00078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Plastics are world-wide pollutants that pose a potential threat to wildlife and human health. Small plastic particles, such as microplastics and nanoplastics, are easily ingested, and can act as a Trojan Horse by carrying microorganisms and pollutants. This study investigated the potential role of the Trojan Horse effect in the toxicity of nanoplastics to the vertebrate model organism, zebrafish (Danio rerio). First, we investigated if this effect could affect the toxicity of nanoplastics. Second, we analyzed if it could contribute to the biodistribution of the associated contaminants. And third, we focused on its effect on the mitochondrial toxicity of nanoplastics. We incubated 44 nm polystyrene nanoparticles with a real-world mixture of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) for 7 days and removed the free PAHs by ultrafiltration. We dosed embryos with 1 ppm of nanoplastics (NanoPS) or PAH-sorbed nanoplastics (PAH-NanoPS). Neither type of plastic particle caused changes in embryonic and larval development. Fluorescence microscopy and increased EROD activity suggested the uptake of PAHs in larvae exposed to PAH-NanoPS. This coincided with higher concentrations in the yolk sac and the brain. However, PAH-only exposure leads to their accumulation in the yolk sac but not in the brain, suggesting that that the spatial distribution of bioaccumulated PAHs can differ depending on their source of exposure. Both nanoplastic particles affected mitochondrial energy metabolism but caused different adverse effects. While NanoPS decreased NADH production, PAH-NanoPS decreased mitochondrial coupling efficiency and spare respiratory capacity. In summary, the addition of PAHs to the surface of nanoplastics did not translate into increased developmental toxicity. Low levels of PAHs were accumulated in the organisms, and the transfer of PAHs seems to happen in tissues and possibly organelles where nanoplastics accumulate. Disruption of the energy metabolism in the mitochondria may be a key factor in the toxicity of nanoplastics, and the Trojan Horse effect may amplify this effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Trevisan
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Daniel Uzochukwu
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Jiang Q, Zhang C, Chen S, Shi L, Li DC, Lv N, Cui L, Chen Y, Zheng Y. Particulate Matter 2.5 Induced Developmental Cardiotoxicity in Chicken Embryo and Hatchling. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:841. [PMID: 32581800 PMCID: PMC7289969 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Particulate matter poses health risk to developing organisms. To investigate particulate matters with a diameter smaller than 2.5 um (PM2.5)-induced developmental cardiotoxicity, fertile chicken eggs were exposed to PM2.5 via air cell injection at doses of 0.05, 0.2, 0.5, 2, and 5 mg/egg kg. Morphological changes in the embryonic day four (ED4) and hatchling hearts were assessed with histological techniques. Heart rates of hatchling chickens were measured with electrocardiography. The protein expression levels of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells p65 (NF-kb p65), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9) were assessed with immunohistochemistry or western blotting in hatchling hearts. PM2.5 exposure elevated areas of heart in ED4 embryo, increased heart rate, and thickened right ventricular wall thickness in hatchling chickens. Immunohistochemistry revealed enhanced NF-kb p65 expression in hatchling hearts. Western blotting results indicated that both iNOS and MMP9 expression were enhanced by lower doses of PM2.5 exposure (0.2 and 0.5 mg/kg) but not 2 mg/kg. In summary, developmental exposure to PM2.5 induced developmental cardiotoxicity in chicken embryo and hatchling chickens, which is associated with NF-kb p65, iNOS, and MMP9.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qixiao Jiang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shen Chen
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Limei Shi
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Dao Chuan Li
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Na Lv
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lianhua Cui
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yanxia Chen
- Department of Occupational Diseases, Occupational Disease Center, Qingdao Central Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Yuxin Zheng
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Pohjanvirta R, Viluksela M. Novel Aspects of Toxicity Mechanisms of Dioxins and Related Compounds. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E2342. [PMID: 32231017 PMCID: PMC7177642 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Dioxins and related compounds are common environmental contaminants. Although their levels have gone down, they are still of concern, in particular regarding developmental toxicity. The adverse effects of these compounds are mediated by the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), whose canonical signaling pathway has been unveiled in fair detail. The alternative (non-genomic) pathways are much more obscure. AHR has also proven to be a master regulator of numerous physiological phenomena, which has led to the search of selective AHR modulators with low toxicity. Papers of this Special Issue address the developmental toxicity of dioxins and related compounds as well as selective modulators of AHR and both its canonical and alternative signaling pathways. In addition, new optical and stereoscopic methods for the detection of dioxins are presented. As a whole, this Special Issue provides an up-to-date view on a wide variety of aspects related to dioxin toxicity mechanisms from both original research articles and reviews.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raimo Pohjanvirta
- Department of Food Hygiene and Environmental Health, University of Helsinki, Mustialankatu 1, FI-00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Matti Viluksela
- School of Pharmacy (Toxicology) and Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland;
- Environmental Health Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), P.O. Box 95, FI-70701 Kuopio, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Abstract
A major goal of translational toxicology is to identify adverse chemical effects and determine whether they are conserved or divergent across experimental systems. Translational toxicology encompasses assessment of chemical toxicity across multiple life stages, determination of toxic mode-of-action, computational prediction modeling, and identification of interventions that protect or restore health following toxic chemical exposures. The zebrafish is increasingly used in translational toxicology because it combines the genetic and physiological advantages of mammalian models with the higher-throughput capabilities and genetic manipulability of invertebrate models. Here, we review recent literature demonstrating the power of the zebrafish as a model for addressing all four activities of translational toxicology. Important data gaps and challenges associated with using zebrafish for translational toxicology are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Tal
- Department of Bioanalytical Ecotoxicology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research – UFZ, Permoserstraβe 15 04318 Leipzig, Germany
- Corresponding authors: Pamela Lein, Department of Molecular Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616 USA, +1-530-752-1970, ; Tamara Tal, Department of Bioanalytical Ecotoxicology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research – UFZ, Leipzig, Germany, +49-341-236-1524,
| | - Bianca Yaghoobi
- Department of Molecular Sciences, University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, 1089 Veterinary Medicine Drive, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - Pamela J. Lein
- Department of Molecular Sciences, University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, 1089 Veterinary Medicine Drive, Davis, CA 95616 USA
- Corresponding authors: Pamela Lein, Department of Molecular Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616 USA, +1-530-752-1970, ; Tamara Tal, Department of Bioanalytical Ecotoxicology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research – UFZ, Leipzig, Germany, +49-341-236-1524,
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Zhang B, Liu Y, Ren M, Li W, Zhang X, Vajtai R, Ajayan PM, Tour JM, Wang L. Sustainable Synthesis of Bright Green Fluorescent Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Quantum Dots from Alkali Lignin. CHEMSUSCHEM 2019; 12:4202-4210. [PMID: 31328347 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.201901693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2019] [Revised: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Sustainable, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly biomass waste can be exploited for large-scale production of carbon nanomaterials. Here, alkali lignin was employed as a precursor to synthesize carbon quantum dots (CQDs) with bright green fluorescence through a simple one-pot route. The prepared CQDs had a size of 1.5-3.5 nm, were water-dispersible, and showed wonderful biocompatibility, in addition to their excellent photoluminescence and electrocatalysis properties. These high-quality CQDs could be used in a wide range of applications such as metal-ion detection, cell imaging, and electrocatalysis. The wide range of biomass lignin feedstocks provide a green, low-cost, and viable strategy for producing high-quality fluorescent CQDs and enable the conversion of biomass waste into high-value products that promote sustainable development of the economy and human society.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Baohua Zhang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P.R. China
| | - Yijian Liu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P.R. China
- Institute of Nanochemistry and Nanobiology, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P.R. China
| | - Muqing Ren
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
| | - Weitao Li
- Institute of Nanochemistry and Nanobiology, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P.R. China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Department of Materials Science and NanoEngineering, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
| | - Robert Vajtai
- Department of Materials Science and NanoEngineering, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
- Interdisciplinary Excellence Centre, Department of Applied and Environmental Chemistry, University of Szeged, Rerrich Béla tér 1, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Pulickel M Ajayan
- Department of Materials Science and NanoEngineering, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
| | - James M Tour
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
| | - Liang Wang
- Institute of Nanochemistry and Nanobiology, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P.R. China
- Department of Materials Science and NanoEngineering, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
| |
Collapse
|