Human Erythrocytes Exposed to Phthalates and Their Metabolites Alter Antioxidant Enzyme Activity and Hemoglobin Oxidation

Engraftment after pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and its association with recipient and donor phthalate and bisphenol A exposure levels: A cohort study

Phthalates and bisphenols, ubiquitous compounds found in various everyday products, have garnered attention due to their potential health-disrupting effects. This study aimed to (1) investigate urinary phthalate metabolites and bisphenol A (BPA) levels in donors and recipients prior to allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and monitor changes in these compounds in pediatric recipients at different time points (day-9, day 0, day+7, day+28, day+90), and (2) assess their association with engraftment success. Urine samples from pediatric recipients and donors were collected for analysis of phthalate metabolites and BPA in 34 donor-recipient pairs. Monomethyl phthalate metabolite was not detectable in any of the urine samples. A notable increase in phthalate metabolites and BPA levels was observed in recipients starting from day+28. Granulocyte engraftment time showed a positive correlation with donor urinary levels of mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP), mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP), and monobenzyl phthalate metabolites with recipient MBP levels measured on day-9. Moreover, donor urinary MBP and MEHP levels were also linked to delayed platelet engraftment. No relationship was observed between engraftment timing and the urine levels of monoethyl phthalate metabolite or BPA in donor-recipient pairs. In cases of mucositis, MEHP and MEP levels on day 0 were higher compared to the non-mucositis group. No relationship was identified between hemorrhagic cystitis and the levels of urine phthalate metabolites or BPA. These findings highlight the potential role of plasticizer exposure in influencing engraftment outcomes, although no significant associations were found between MEP or BPA levels and engraftment.

Eicosapentaenoic Acid Triggers Phosphatidylserine Externalization in the Erythrocyte Membrane through Calcium Signaling and Anticholinesterase Activity

Hemolysis and eryptosis contribute to anemia encountered in patients undergoing chemotherapy. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is an omega-3 dietary fatty acid that has anticancer potential by inducing apoptosis in cancer cells, but its effect on the physiology and lifespan of red blood cells (RBCs) is understudied. Human RBCs were exposed to anticancer concentrations of EPA (10-100 ?M) for 24 h at 37 °C. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and hemolysis were measured by colorimetric assays whereas annexin-V-FITC and forward scatter (FSC) were employed to identify eryptotic cells. Oxidative stress was assessed by H2DCFDA and intracellular Ca2+ was measured by Fluo4/AM. EPA significantly increased hemolysis and K+ leakage, and LDH and AST activities in the supernatants in a concentration-dependent manner. EPA also significantly increased annexin-V-FITC-positive cells and Fluo4 fluorescence and decreased FSC and AChE activity. A significant reduction in the hemolytic activity of EPA was noted in the presence extracellular isosmotic urea, 125 mM KCl, and polyethylene glycol 8000 (PEG 8000), but not sucrose. In conclusion, EPA stimulates hemolysis and eryptosis through Ca2+ buildup and AChE inhibition. Urea, blocking KCl efflux, and PEG 8000 alleviate the hemolytic activity of EPA. The anticancer potential of EPA may be optimized using Ca2+ channel blockers and chelators to minimize its toxicity to off-target tissue. Keywords: EPA, Eryptosis, Hemolysis, Calcium, Anticancer.

The mitochondrial link: Phthalate exposure and cardiovascular disease

Phthalates' pervasive presence in everyday life poses concern as they have been revealed to induce perturbing health defects. Utilized as a plasticizer, phthalates are riddled throughout many common consumer products including personal care products, food packaging, home furnishings, and medical supplies. Phthalates permeate into the environment by leaching out of these products which can subsequently be taken up by the human body. It is previously established that a connection exists between phthalate exposure and cardiovascular disease (CVD) development; however, the specific mitochondrial link in this scenario has not yet been described. Prior studies have indicated that one possible mechanism for how phthalates exert their effects is through mitochondrial dysfunction. By disturbing mitochondrial structure, function, and signaling, phthalates can contribute to the development of the foremost cause of death worldwide, CVD. This review will examine the potential link among phthalates and their effects on the mitochondria, permissive of CVD development.

Hierarchy of demographic and social determinants of mental health: analysis of cross-sectional survey data from the Global Mind Project

OBJECTIVES

To understand the extent to which various demographic and social determinants predict mental health status and their relative hierarchy of predictive power in order to prioritise and develop population-based preventative approaches.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional analysis of survey data.

SETTING

Internet-based survey from 32 countries across North America, Europe, Latin America, Middle East and North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia and Australia, collected between April 2020 and December 2021.

PARTICIPANTS

270 000 adults aged 18-85+ years who participated in the Global Mind Project.

OUTCOME MEASURES

We used 120+ demographic and social determinants to predict aggregate mental health status and scores of individuals (mental health quotient (MHQ)) and determine their relative predictive influence using various machine learning models including gradient boosting and random forest classification for various demographic stratifications by age, gender, geographical region and language. Outcomes reported include model performance metrics of accuracy, precision, recall, F1 scores and importance of individual factors determined by reduction in the squared error attributable to that factor.

RESULTS

Across all demographic classification models, 80% of those with negative MHQs were correctly identified, while regression models predicted specific MHQ scores within ±15% of the position on the scale. Predictions were higher for older ages (0.9+ accuracy, 0.9+ F1 Score; 65+ years) and poorer for younger ages (0.68 accuracy, 0.68 F1 Score; 18-24 years). Across all age groups, genders, regions and language groups, lack of social interaction and sufficient sleep were several times more important than all other factors. For younger ages (18-24 years), other highly predictive factors included cyberbullying and sexual abuse while not being able to work was high for ages 45-54 years.

CONCLUSION

Social determinants of traumas, adversities and lifestyle can account for 60%-90% of mental health challenges. However, additional factors are at play, particularly for younger ages, that are not included in these data and need further investigation.

Recent advances and new insights on the construction of photocatalytic systems for environmental disinfection

Photocatalysis, as a sustainable and environmentally friendly green technology, has garnered widespread recognition and application across various fields. Especially its potential in environmental disinfection has been highly valued by researchers. This study commences with foundational research on photocatalytic disinfection technology and provides a comprehensive overview of its current developmental status. It elucidates the complexity of the interface reaction mechanism between photocatalysts and microorganisms, providing valuable insights from the perspectives of materials and microorganisms. This study reviews the latest design and modification strategies (Build heterojunction, defect engineering, and heteroatom doping) for photocatalysts in environmental disinfection. Moreover, this study investigates the research focuses and links in constructing photocatalytic disinfection systems, including photochemical reactors, light sources, and material immobilization technologies. It studies the complex challenges and influencing factors generated by different environmental media during the disinfection process. Simultaneously, a comprehensive review extensively covers the research status of photocatalytic disinfection concerning bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It reveals the observable efficiency differences caused by the microstructure of microorganisms during photocatalytic reactions. Based on these influencing factors, the economy and effectiveness of photocatalytic disinfection systems are analyzed and discussed. Finally, this study summarizes the current application status of photocatalytic disinfection products. The challenges faced by the synthesis and application of future photocatalysts are proposed, and the future development in this field is discussed. The potential for research and innovation has been further emphasized, with the core on improving efficiency, reducing costs, and strengthening the practical application of photocatalysis in environmental disinfection.

Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Defense Mechanisms in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients with Concurrent COVID-19 Infection

Stroke remains a debilitating cerebrovascular condition associated with oxidative stress, while COVID-19 has emerged as a global health crisis with multifaceted systemic implications. This study investigates the hypothesis that patients experiencing acute ischemic stroke alongside COVID-19 exhibit elevated oxidative stress markers and altered antioxidant defense mechanisms compared to those with acute ischemic stroke. We conducted a single-center prospective cross-sectional study to investigate oxidative stress balance through oxidative damage markers: TBARS (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances level) and PCARB (protein carbonyls); antioxidant defense mechanisms: TAC (total antioxidant capacity), GPx (glutathione peroxidase), GSH (reduced glutathione), CAT (catalase), and SOD (superoxide dismutase); as well as inflammatory response markers: NLR (neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio), CRP (C-reactive protein), and ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate). Statistical analyses and correlation models were employed to elucidate potential associations and predictive factors. Our results revealed increased oxidative stress, predominantly indicated by elevated levels of TBARS in individuals experiencing ischemic stroke alongside a concurrent COVID-19 infection (p < 0.0001). The Stroke-COVID group displayed notably elevated levels of GSH (p = 0.0139 *), GPx (p < 0.0001 ****), SOD (p = 0.0363 *), and CAT (p = 0.0237 *) activities. Multivariate analysis found a significant association for TBARS (p < 0.0001 ****), PCARB (p = 0.0259 *), and GPx activity (p < 0.0001 ****), together with NLR (p = 0.0220 *) and CRP (p = 0.0008 ***). Notably, the interplay between stroke and COVID-19 infection appears to amplify oxidative damage, potentially contributing to exacerbated neurological deficits and poorer outcomes. This study highlights the intricate relationship between oxidative stress, inflammation, and concurrent health conditions. Understanding these interactions may open avenues for novel therapeutic strategies aimed at ameliorating oxidative damage in patients with acute ischemic stroke and COVID-19, ultimately improving their prognosis and quality of life.

Stimulation of Hemolysis and Eryptosis by α-Mangostin through Rac1 GTPase and Oxidative Injury in Human Red Blood Cells

BACKGROUND

Chemotherapy-related anemia is prevalent in up to 75% of patients, which may arise due to hemolysis and eryptosis. Alpha-mangostin (α-MG) is a polyphenolic xanthonoid found in the mangosteen tree (Garcinia mangostana) whose antitumor medicinal properties are well-established. Nevertheless, the potential toxic effects of α-MG on red blood cells (RBCs) have, as of yet, not been as well studied.

METHODS

RBCs were exposed to 1-40 μM of α-MG for 24 h at 37 °C. Hemolysis and related markers were measured using colorimetric assays, eryptotic cells were identified through Annexin-V-FITC, Ca2+ was detected with Fluo4/AM, and oxidative stress was assessed through H2DCFDA using flow cytometry. The toxicity of α-MG was also examined in the presence of specific signal transduction inhibitors and in whole blood.

RESULTS

α-MG at 10-40 μM caused dose-dependent hemolysis with concurrent significant elevation in K+, Mg2+, and LDH leakage, but at 2.5 μM it significantly increased the osmotic resistance of cells. A significant increase was also noted in Annexin-V-binding cells, along with intracellular Ca2+, oxidative stress, and cell shrinkage. Moreover, acetylcholinesterase activity was significantly inhibited by α-MG, whose hemolytic potential was significantly ameliorated by the presence of BAPTA-AM, vitamin C, NSC23766, and isosmotic sucrose but not urea. In whole blood, α-MG significantly depleted intracellular hemoglobin stores and was selectively toxic to platelets and monocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

α-MG possesses hemolytic and eryptotic activities mediated through Ca2+ signaling, Rac1 GTPase activity, and oxidative injury. Also, α-MG leads to accelerated cellular aging and specifically targets platelet and monocyte populations in a whole blood milieu.

Influence of different concentrations of plasticizer diethyl phthalate (DEP) on toxicity of Lactuca sativa seeds, Artemia salina and Zebrafish

Like other phthalates, diethyl phthalate (DEP) is considered as a contaminant of emerging concern (CEC) due to its ease in migrating from a package to water and food, and hence contaminate consumers, being metabolized and excreted in the urine. Its presence has a negative impact on aquatic ecosystems, especially with respect to disruption of the endocrine system and to reproductive disorders in humans. It mainly enters water bodies via sewage effluents from effluent treatment plants, due to its incomplete or inefficient removal. The objective of this work was to evaluate the toxicity of DEP at different trophic levels and to analyze data on the incidence and concentration of DEP according to its solubility. The concentrations ranged from 12.5 mg L-1 to 500 mg L-1 considering the response for toxicity at each trophic level and to determine the lethal concentration in 50% of the following organisms (LC50) (in mg L-1): Lactuca sativa seeds, Artemia salina Leach nauplii and Zebrafish embryo larval stage (Danio rerio), being 41,057.58 after 120 h; 401.77 after 48 h; and 470 after 96 h of exposure, respectively. As expected, higher organisms were more affected even at low concentrations, which shows the anthropological contribution of CECs to water bodies.

Phthalates and their effects on human health: Focus on erythrocytes and the reproductive system

Plastics, long-chain artificial polymers, are used worldwide with a global production of 350 million tonnes per year. Various degradation processes transform plastics into smaller fragments divided into micro, meso and macroplastics. In various industries, such as construction, certain plastic additives are used to improve flexibility and enhance performance. Plastic additives include phthalates (PAE), dibutyl phthalate (DPB) and diethyl phthalate (DEP). Due to the use of plastics and plastic additives, these small fragments of different shapes and colours are present in all environmental compartments. For their characteristics, PAEs can be introduced particularly by ingestion, inhalation and dermal absorption. They can accumulate in the human body, where they have already been identified in blood, amniotic fluid and urine. The purpose of this review is to gather the effects that these plastic additives have on various systems in the human body. Being endocrine disruptors, the effects they have on erythrocytes and how they can be considered targets for xenobiotics have been analysed. The influence on the reproductive system was also examined. Phthalates are therefore often overused. Due to their properties, they can reach human tissues and have a negative impact on health. The aim of this review is to give an overview of the presence of phthalates and their hazards. Therefore, the use of these plastic additives should be reduced, replaced and their disposal improved.

Quince extract resists atherosclerosis in rats by down-regulating the EGFR/PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β pathway

We identified the effective components and the underlying mechanisms of Quince (Cydonia oblonga Mill, COM) extract against atherosclerosis. The effective components of COM extract were identified with UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. Network pharmacology was performed. A rat model of atherosclerosis induced by high-fat emulsion combined with vitamin D₃ was established. The anti-atherosclerosis effect of COM extract was evaluated from various aspects such as blood lipid regulation, anti-oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory response, and vascular protection function. We identified 14 serum components of COM extract using UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. Through prediction, 573 targets were obtained, among which 224 targets were atherosclerosis specific targets. The key targets included GSK3β, ESR1, EGFR, and HSP90AA1. The key signaling pathway was PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Pharmacodynamics analysis showed that COM extract reduced the levels of TC, TG, and LDL-C as well as ALT and AST, while increased the level of HDL-C. Mechanistically, COM extract significantly increased serum SOD and GSH-Px activities, but decreased MDA content in atherosclerosis rats, showing antioxidant effects. Meanwhile, COM extract significantly down-regulated the levels of pro-inflammatory factors IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and CRP, but up-regulated anti-inflammatory factor IL-10. Additionally, COM extract increased the levels of NO, eNOS, and 6-keto-PGF1α; whereas, decreased the levels of ET-1 and TXB₂. Furthermore, COM extract significantly inhibited the mRNA and protein levels of EGFR, p-PI3K, p-AKT, GSK-3β, Bax, and Caspase-3 as well as the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Conclusively, COM extract exerts hypolipidemic, anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-thrombotic and vascular endothelium protective effects on atherosclerosis rat model, which may be related to the inhibition of EGFR/PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β signaling pathway.

Transcriptional analysis in peripheral blood cells of individuals with elevated phthalate exposure - Results of the EuroMix study

Exposure to phthalates is widespread in Europe. Phthalates are considered endocrine disrupting compounds and are classified as toxic for reproduction. However how phthalates affect the transcriptome in humans remains largely unknown. To investigate the effects of phthalate exposure on the transcriptomic profile we conducted RNA sequencing on peripheral blood samples from the Norwegian EuroMix cohort. We compared gene expression changes between participants with high, medium, and low exposure of six phthalates and 1,2-cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid diisononyl ester (DINCH). Comparing high and low exposure groups, DINCH was the compound that showed the highest number of differentially expressed genes (126 genes) followed by mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP; 89 genes) and mono-iso-nonyl phthalate (MiBP; 70 genes). Distributions between up- or down-regulated genes were similar across the different phthalates and DINCH. All phthalates including DINCH shared common differentially expressed genes ranging from 3 to 37 overlaps. Enriched Gene Ontology (GO) and biological pathway analysis revealed that most of the differentially expressed genes were associated with general cellular metabolism GO terms. MnBP and DINCH, particularly, showed a marked enrichment in various immunological function pathways including neutrophil degranulation, adaptive immune system and signaling by interleukins. Furthermore, the association between genes involved in the peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathway and phthalates, including DINCH, was evaluated. In total, 15 genes showed positive or negative associations across 5 phthalates and DINCH. MnBP and MiBP were the phthalate metabolites with the highest number of associations: 8 and 4 PPAR signaling pathway genes, respectively. Overall, we have performed an association study between phthalate exposure levels and modulation of transcriptomic profiles in human peripheral blood cells. DINCH, which is often mentioned as a substitute for phthalates, had comparable effects on differential gene expression in peripheral blood cells as phthalates.

Morin attenuates neurobehavioural deficits, hippocampal oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in rats co-exposed to bisphenol S and diethyl phthalate

Endocrine-disrupting pollutants (EDPs) remain pervasive in the environment. Bisphenol S (BPS) and diethyl phthalates (DEP) are commonly used to replace the more toxic EDPs. However, it is unclear if they induce neurotoxicity, like their predecessors. Morin possesses relevant neuro-pharmacological activities. Hence, we sought to evaluate the protective effects of morin against the neurotoxic effects previously reported for EDPs. Male Wistar rats were exposed to a mixture of BPS and DEP (MBD) and treated with morin for 21 days. Behavioural assessments were conducted, and the hippocampal tissues were processed for analysis. Rats exposed to MBD presented anxiety-like behaviours, impaired cognitive and motor functions compared to the control group. MBD exposure induced hyperactivity of neurosignalling enzymes (AChE, ADA, MAO-A) and depleted hippocampal antioxidants (SOD, CAT, GPx, and GSH). MBD exposure increased calcium levels and inhibited total Ca²⁺-ATPase activity. Levels of reactive species (NO and H₂O₂) and oxidative damage markers (MDA and AOPP) were significantly (P < 0.05) elevated compared to control. The hippocampal expressions of IL-1β, TNFα, BAX, and APAF-1 in the MBD-exposed rats were significantly higher compared to control. Correspondingly, NF-κB and caspase-3 pathways were activated in the hippocampus of MBD-exposed rats, while the expressions of IL-10 and BDNF were repressed. However, co-treatment with morin improved the neurobehavioral outcomes, alleviated the hyperactivity of neurosignalling enzymes, while suppressing hippocampal oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. Histological and stereological evaluations supported these findings. In conclusion, co-exposure to BPS and DEP elicit similar neurotoxic outcomes as their predecessors, while morin confers marked protection against these outcomes.

Recent advances in toxicological research and potential health impact of microplastics and nanoplastics in vivo

As emerging pollutants, direct and indirect adverse impacts of micro(nano)plastics (MPs/NPs) are raising an increasing environmental concern in recent years due to their poor biodegradability and difficulty in recycling. MPs/NPs can act as carriers of bacteria, viruses, or pollutants (such as heavy metals and toxic organic compounds), and may potentially change the toxicity and bioavailability of pollutants. Ingested or attached MPs/NPs can also be transferred from low-trophic level organisms to high-nutrient organisms or even the human body through the food chain transfer process. This article reviews the emerging field of micro- and nanoplastics on organisms, including the separate toxicity and toxicity of compound after the adsorption of organic pollutants or heavy metals, as well as possible mechanism of toxicological effects and evaluate the nano- and microplastics potential adverse effects on human health. The inherent toxic effects MPs/NPs mainly include the following: physical injury, growth performance decrease and behavioral alteration, lipid metabolic disorder, induced gut microbiota dysbiosis and disruption of the gut's epithelial permeability, neurotoxicity, damage of reproductive system and offspring, oxidative stress, immunotoxicity, etc. Additionally, MPs/NPs may release harmful plastic additives and toxic monomers such as bisphenol A, phthalates, and toluene diisocyanate. The vectors' effect also points out the potential interaction of MPs/NPs with pollutants such as heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, organochlorine pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls, perfluorinated compounds, pharmaceuticals, and polybrominated diphenyl ethers. Nevertheless, these potential consequences of MPs/NPs being vectors for contaminants are controversial.

Environmental Pollution to Blame for Depressive Disorder?

Public concern has emerged about the effects of endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) on neuropsychiatric disorders. Preclinical evidence suggests that exposure to EDCs is associated with the development of major depressive disorder (MDD) and could result in neural degeneration. The interaction of EDCs with hormonal receptors is the best-described mechanism of their biological activity. However, the dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal adrenal axis has been reported and linked to neurological disorders. At a worldwide level and in Mexico, the incidence of MDD has recently been increasing. Of note, in Mexico, there are no clinical associations on blood levels of EDCs and the incidence of the MDD. Methodology: Thus, we quantified for the first time the serum levels of parent compounds of two bisphenols and four phthalates in patients with MDD. The levels of di-ethyl-hexyl-phthalate (DEHP), butyl-benzyl-phthalate (BBP), di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP), and di-ethyl-phthalate (DEP), bisphenol A (BPA), and bisphenol S (BPS) in men and women with or without MDD were determined with a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer. Results/conclusion: We found significant differences between concentrations of BBP between controls and patients with MDD. Interestingly, the serum levels of this compound have a dysmorphic behavior, being much higher in women (~500 ng/mL) than in men (≤10 ng/mL). We did not observe significant changes in the serum concentrations of the other phthalates or bisphenols tested, neither when comparing healthy and sick subjects nor when they were compared by gender. The results point out that BBP has a critical impact on the etiology of MDD disorder in Mexican patients, specifically in women.

Physiological and metabolic approach of plastic additive effects: Immune cells responses

Human and wildlife are continually exposed to a wide range of compounds and substances, which reach the body through the air, water, food, or personal care products. Plasticizers are compounds added to plastics and can be released to the environment under certain conditions. Toxicological studies have concluded that plasticizers, phthalates, and bisphenols are endocrine disruptors, alter the endocrine system and functioning of the immune system and metabolic process. A functional immune response indicates favourable living conditions for an organism; conversely, a weak immune response could reveal a degraded environment that requires organisms to adapt. There is growing concern about the presence of plastic debris in the environment. In this review, the current knowledge of the action of plasticizers on leukocyte cells will be itemized. We also point out critically the role of some nuclear and membrane receptors as key players in the action of plasticizers on cells possess immune function. We discuss the role of erythrocytes within the immune responses and the alteration caused by plasticizers. Finally, we highlight data evidencing mitochondrial dysfunctions triggered by plasticizing toxic action, which can lead to immunosuppression.

Variations of Serum Oxidative Stress Biomarkers under First-Line Antituberculosis Treatment: A Pilot Study

Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the highest infectious burdens worldwide, and pathogenesis is yet incompletely elucidated. Bacilli dissemination is due to poor antioxidant defense mechanisms and intensified oxidative stress. There are few recent studies that analyzed and compared free radicals or antioxidant status before and after anti-TB treatment. Hence, the present study underlines the need to identify oxidative stress as it could be a useful tool in TB monitorisation. Thirty newly diagnosed patients with pulmonary TB were included after signing an informed consent. Blood was collected before receiving first-line anti-tubercular therapy (T0) and after 60 days (T2). Spectrophotometric methods were used to quantify oxidative parameters (TBARS—thiobarbituric acid reactive species); enzymatic antioxidants such as SOD (superoxide dismutase), CAT (catalase), GPx (glutathione peroxidase), and TAC (total antioxidant capacity); and non-enzymatic antioxidants such as GSH (reduced glutathione). A moderate positive correlation was found between GSH and TAC (r = 0.63, p-value = 0.046) and GSH and SOD (r = 0.64, p-value = 0.041) at T2. Increased values of GSH, CAT, and SOD were noted at T2 in comparison with T0, while GPx, TAC, and TBARS decreased at T2. A better monitorisation in TB could be based on oxidative stress and antioxidant status. Nevertheless, restoring redox host balance could reduce TB progression.

Combining metabolomics with bioanalysis methods to investigate the potential toxicity of dihexyl phthalate

Dihexyl phthalate (DHP) is one of the most commonly used phthalate esters in various plastic and consumer products. Human are inevitably exposed to DHPs. Although several animal and human experiments have revealed that DHP can cause multiple toxicities, few studies have previously assessed the effects of DHP exposure by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis combine with molecular biology methods on human cells. Therefore, the purpose of our study was to investigate the effect of DHP on human cell metabolism by systems biology methods. In this study, U₂ OS cancer cells were treated with 10 μM DHP for metabolomics analysis and apoptosis analysis at indicate time. Metabolomic study of the metabolic changes caused by DHP in U₂ OS cells was performed for the first time using integrative liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-Q-TOF-MS). To investigate the possible reason of fatty acids level altered by DHP, we measured some key fatty acid synthesis and oxidation-related enzyme expression levels by quantitative real-time PCR (Q-PCR). Apoptotic cells were analyzed by flow cytometry and apoptosis-related gene expressions were measured by Q-PCR. 2',7'-Dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) staining was used to evaluate ROS content. Partial least squares-discriminate analysis (PLS-DA) clearly showed that significant differences in metabolic profiles were observed in U₂ OS cells exposed to DHP compared with controls. A total of 58 putative metabolites in electrospray ionization source (ESI) + mode and 32 putative metabolites in ESI-mode were detected, the majority of the differential metabolites being lipids and lipid-like molecules. Among them, the altered fatty acids level corresponded to expression levels of genes encoding enzymes related to fatty acids synthesis and oxidation. Moreover, DHP induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, promoted cell apoptosis and inflammation, and resulted in a significant increase in apoptosis and inflammation-related gene expression levels compared with controls. In summary, our results suggested that metabolomics combined with molecular bioanalysis methods could be an efficient tool to assess toxic effects, which contribute to explore the possible cytotoxicity mechanisms of DHP, and provide a basis for further research.

Erythrocytes as model cells for biocompatibility assessment, cytotoxicity screening of xenobiotics and drug delivery

Erythrocytes (RBCs) represent the main cell component in circulation and recently have become a topic of intensive scientific interest. The relevance of erythrocytes as a model for cytotoxicity screening of xenobiotics is under the spotlight of this review. Erythrocytes constitute a fundamental cellular model to study potential interactions with blood components of manifold novel polymer or biomaterials. Morphological changes, subsequent disruption of RBC membrane integrity, and hemolysis could be used to determine the cytotoxicity of various compounds. Erythrocytes undergo a programmed death (eryptosis) which could serve as a good model for evaluating certain mechanisms which correspond to apoptosis taking place in nucleated cells. Importantly, erythrocytes can be successfully used as a valuable cellular model in examination of oxidative stress generated by certain diseases or multiple xenobiotics since red cells are subjected to permanent oxidative stress. Additionally, the antioxidant capacity of erythrocytes, and the activity of anti-oxidative enzymes could reflect reactive oxygen species (ROS) generating properties of various substances and allow to determine their effects on tissues. The last part of this review presents the latest findings on the possible application of RBCs as drug delivery systems (DDS). In conclusion, all these findings make erythrocytes highly valuable cells for in vitro biocompatibility assessment, cytotoxicity screening of a wide variety of substances as well as drug delivery.