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Phelps DW, Connors AM, Ferrero G, DeWitt JC, Yoder JA. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances alter innate immune function: evidence and data gaps. J Immunotoxicol 2024; 21:2343362. [PMID: 38712868 PMCID: PMC11249028 DOI: 10.1080/1547691x.2024.2343362] [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: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a large class of compounds used in a variety of processes and consumer products. Their unique chemical properties make them ubiquitous and persistent environmental contaminants while also making them economically viable and socially convenient. To date, several reviews have been published to synthesize information regarding the immunotoxic effects of PFASs on the adaptive immune system. However, these reviews often do not include data on the impact of these compounds on innate immunity. Here, current literature is reviewed to identify and incorporate data regarding the effects of PFASs on innate immunity in humans, experimental models, and wildlife. Known mechanisms by which PFASs modulate innate immune function are also reviewed, including disruption of cell signaling, metabolism, and tissue-level effects. For PFASs where innate immune data are available, results are equivocal, raising additional questions about common mechanisms or pathways of toxicity, but highlighting that the innate immune system within several species can be perturbed by exposure to PFASs. Recommendations are provided for future research to inform hazard identification, risk assessment, and risk management practices for PFASs to protect the immune systems of exposed organisms as well as environmental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drake W. Phelps
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
- Center for Environmental and Health Effects of PFAS, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
- Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
| | - Ashley M. Connors
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
- Center for Environmental and Health Effects of PFAS, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
- Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
- Toxicology Program, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
- Genetics and Genomics Academy, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
| | - Giuliano Ferrero
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
- Center for Environmental and Health Effects of PFAS, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
| | - Jamie C. DeWitt
- Center for Environmental and Health Effects of PFAS, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR
| | - Jeffrey A. Yoder
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
- Center for Environmental and Health Effects of PFAS, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
- Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
- Toxicology Program, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
- Genetics and Genomics Academy, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
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2
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Kim D, Cho S, Jeon JJ, Choi J. Inhalation Toxicity Screening of Consumer Products Chemicals using OECD Test Guideline Data-based Machine Learning Models. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 478:135446. [PMID: 39154469 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135446] [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: 05/11/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to screen the inhalation toxicity of chemicals found in consumer products such as air fresheners, fragrances, and anti-fogging agents submitted to K-REACH using machine learning models. We manually curated inhalation toxicity data based on OECD test guideline 403 (Acute inhalation), 412 (Sub-acute inhalation), and 413 (Sub-chronic inhalation) for 1709 chemicals from the OECD eChemPortal database. Machine learning models were trained using ten algorithms, along with four molecular fingerprints (MACCS, Morgan, Topo, RDKit) and molecular descriptors, achieving F1 scores ranging from 51 % to 91 % in test dataset. Leveraging the high-performing models, we conducted a virtual screening of chemicals, initially applying them to data-rich chemicals generally used in occupational settings to determine the prediction uncertainty. Results showed high sensitivity (75 %) but low specificity (23 %), suggesting that our models can contribute to conservative screening of chemicals. Subsequently, we applied the models to consumer product chemicals, identifying 79 as of high concern. Most of the prioritized chemicals lacked GHS classifications related to inhalation toxicity, even though they were predicted to be used in many consumer products. This study highlights a potential regulatory blind spot concerning the inhalation risk of consumer product chemicals while also indicating the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) models to aid in prioritizing chemicals at the screening level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghyeon Kim
- School of Environmental Engineering, University of Seoul, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea
| | - Soyoung Cho
- Department of Statistics, University of Seoul, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-June Jeon
- Department of Statistics, University of Seoul, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jinhee Choi
- School of Environmental Engineering, University of Seoul, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea.
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3
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Catlin NR, Cappon GD, Davenport SD, Stethem CM, Nowland WS, Campion SN, Bowman CJ. New approach methodologies to confirm developmental toxicity of pharmaceuticals based on weight of evidence. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 129:108686. [PMID: 39128486 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2024.108686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
The aim of embryo-fetal developmental toxicity assessments for pharmaceuticals is to inform potential risk of adverse pregnancy outcome, which has traditionally relied on studies in pregnant animals. Recent updates to international safety guidelines (ICH S5R3) have incorporated information on how to use weight of evidence and alternative assays to reduce animal use while still informing risk of fetal harm. Uptake of these alternative approaches has been slow due to limitations in understanding how alternative assays translate to in vivo effects and then relevance to human exposure. To understand the predictivity of new approach methodologies for developmental toxicity (DevTox NAMs), we used two pharmaceutical examples (glasdegib and lorlatinib) to illustrate the value of DevTox NAMs to complement weight of evidence (WoE) assessments while considering the relationship of concentration-effect levels in NAMs to in vivo studies. The in vitro results generated in a battery of assays (mEST, rWEC, zebrafish, and human based stem cells) confirmed the WoE based on literature and further confirmed by preliminary embryo-fetal development data. The data generated for these two compounds supports integrating DevTox NAMs into the developmental toxicity assessment for advanced cancer indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha R Catlin
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Research & Development, Groton, CT, USA.
| | - Gregg D Cappon
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Research & Development, Groton, CT, USA; Current: ToxStrategies, Katy, TX, USA
| | - Scott D Davenport
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Research & Development, Groton, CT, USA
| | - Christine M Stethem
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Research & Development, Groton, CT, USA
| | - William S Nowland
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Research & Development, Groton, CT, USA
| | - Sarah N Campion
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Research & Development, Groton, CT, USA
| | - Christopher J Bowman
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Research & Development, Groton, CT, USA
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4
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Marciano LPA, Kleinstreuer N, Chang X, Costa LF, Silvério ACP, Martins I. A novel approach to triazole fungicides risk characterization: Bridging human biomonitoring and computational toxicology. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 953:176003. [PMID: 39236816 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.176003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 08/20/2024] [Accepted: 09/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
Brazil stands as the world's leading coffee producer, where the extensive use of pesticides is economically critical yet poses health and environmental risks due to their non-selective mechanisms of action. Specifically, triazole fungicides are widely used in agriculture to manage fungal diseases and are known to disrupt mammalian CYP450 and liver microsomal enzymes. This research establishes a framework for risk characterization of human exposure to triazole fungicides by internal-dose biomonitoring, biochemical marker measurements, and integration of high-throughput screening (HTS) data via computational toxicology workflows from the Integrated Chemical Environment (ICE). Volunteers from the southern region of Minas Gerais, Brazil, were divided into two groups: farmworkers and spouses occupationally and environmentally exposed to pesticides from rural areas (n = 140) and individuals from the urban area to serve as a comparison group (n = 50). Three triazole fungicides, cyproconazole, epoxiconazole, and triadimenol, were detected in the urine samples of both men and women in the rural group. Androstenedione and testosterone hormones were significantly reduced in the farmworker group (Mann-Whitney test, p < 0.0001). The data show a significant inverse association of testosterone with cholesterol, LDL, VLDL, triglycerides, and glucose and a direct association with HDL (Spearman's correlation, p < 0.05). In the ICE workflow, active in vitro HTS assays were identified for the three measured triazoles and three other active ingredients from the pesticide formulations. The curated HTS data confirm bioactivities predominantly related to steroid hormone metabolism, cellular stress processes, and CYP450 enzymes impacted by fungicide exposure at occupationally and environmentally relevant concentrations based on the in vitro to in vivo extrapolation models. These results characterize the potentially significant human health risk, particularly from the high frequency and intensity of exposure to epoxiconazole. This study showcases the critical role of biomonitoring and utility of computational tools in evaluating pesticide exposure and minimizing the risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiz P A Marciano
- Laboratory of Toxicant and Drug Analyses, Department of clinical and toxicological analysis, Federal University of Alfenas - Unifal-MG, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Nicole Kleinstreuer
- National Toxicology Program Interagency Center for the Evaluation of Alternative Toxicological Methods, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | - Luiz F Costa
- Laboratory of Toxicant and Drug Analyses, Department of clinical and toxicological analysis, Federal University of Alfenas - Unifal-MG, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Isarita Martins
- Laboratory of Toxicant and Drug Analyses, Department of clinical and toxicological analysis, Federal University of Alfenas - Unifal-MG, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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Lai Y, Ay M, Hospital CD, Miller GW, Sarkar S. Seminar: Functional Exposomics and Mechanisms of Toxicity-Insights from Model Systems and NAMs. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2024; 132:94201. [PMID: 39230330 PMCID: PMC11373422 DOI: 10.1289/ehp13120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Significant progress has been made over the past decade in measuring the chemical components of the exposome, providing transformative population-scale frameworks in probing the etiologic link between environmental factors and disease phenotypes. While the analytical technologies continue to evolve with reams of data being generated, there is an opportunity to complement exposome-wide association studies (ExWAS) with functional analyses to advance etiologic search at organismal, cellular, and molecular levels. OBJECTIVES Exposomics is a transdisciplinary field aimed at enabling discovery-based analysis of the nongenetic factors that contribute to disease, including numerous environmental chemical stressors. While advances in exposure assessment are enhancing population-based discovery of exposome-wide effects and chemical exposure agents, functional screening and elucidation of biological effects of exposures represent the next logical step toward precision environmental health and medicine. In this work, we focus on the use, strategies, and prospects of alternative approaches and model systems to enhance the current human exposomics framework in biomarker search and causal understanding, spanning from bench-based nonmammalian organisms and cell culture to computational new approach methods (NAMs). DISCUSSION We visit the definition of the functional exposome and exposomics and discuss a need to leverage alternative models as opposed to mammalian animals for delineating exposome-wide health effects. Under the "three Rs" principle of reduction, replacement, and refinement, model systems such as roundworms, fruit flies, zebrafish, and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are advantageous over mammals (e.g., rodents or higher vertebrates). These models are cost-effective, and cell-specific genetic manipulations in these models are easier and faster, compared to mammalian models. Meanwhile, in silico NAMs enhance hazard identification and risk assessment in humans by bridging the translational gaps between toxicology data and etiologic inference, as represented by in vitro to in vivo extrapolation (IVIVE) and integrated approaches to testing and assessment (IATA) under the adverse outcome pathway (AOP) framework. Together, these alternatives offer a strong toolbox to support functional exposomics to study toxicity and causal mediators underpinning exposure-disease links. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP13120.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunjia Lai
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Muhammet Ay
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Carolina Duarte Hospital
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Gary W Miller
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Souvarish Sarkar
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA
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6
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Wu Y, Maul J, Vaugeois M, Galic N. Advancing ecotoxicological studies: Utilizing new approach methodologies to enable cross-species extrapolation and reduce avian testing. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 360:124765. [PMID: 39173863 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2024] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
Ecological risk assessments of agrochemicals have traditionally depended on in vivo guideline tests using northern bobwhite and mallard to provide relevant endpoints for avian species. However, these studies have limitations, including animal welfare concerns, the time and cost involved, limited potential for extrapolation to more realistic exposure conditions, and the lack of mechanistic understanding. The proof-of-concept work presented a case study for thiamethoxam in three avian species, demonstrating the potential of physiologically based kinetic (PBK) modeling to enable dosimetry extrapolations that inform hazard characterization in risk assessment, and reduce the use of avian testing. The model structure for northern bobwhite and mallard contained ten compartments, while an additional ovulation model was included for chicken in the physiological state of egg-laying. The model was first parameterized and evaluated for chicken and northern bobwhite using in vitro kinetic measurements and in vivo toxicokinetic (TK) data. The chicken model was then extrapolated to mallard based on allometric scaling. The models were then used to map the TK profiles across species by simulating internal dose metrics in different avian toxicology studies. These metrics, including peak blood concentrations (Cmax) and area under the curve (AUC) for blood concentration, were determined for acute, subacute, or chronic toxicity endpoints for mallard and northern bobwhite, enabling a quantitative cross-species and cross-route comparison of dosimetry. The results suggested that the chronic toxicological response of birds exposed to thiamethoxam is highly dependent on internal exposure, while mallard appeared to be more dynamically sensitive to thiamethoxam on an acute oral exposure basis. The case study increases the confidence in using new approach methodologies (NAMs) for interpreting avian toxicity studies and facilitating in vitro-in silico-based ecological risk assessments of agrochemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoxing Wu
- Product Safety, Syngenta Crop Protection LLC, Greensboro, NC, 27409, USA.
| | - Jonathan Maul
- Product Safety, Syngenta Crop Protection LLC, Greensboro, NC, 27409, USA
| | - Maxime Vaugeois
- Product Safety, Syngenta Crop Protection LLC, Greensboro, NC, 27409, USA
| | - Nika Galic
- Product Safety, Syngenta Crop Protection AG, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
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Ozbek O, Genc DE, O. Ulgen K. Advances in Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) Modeling of Nanomaterials. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2024; 7:2251-2279. [PMID: 39144562 PMCID: PMC11320736 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.4c00250] [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: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
Nanoparticles (NPs) have been widely used to improve the pharmacokinetic properties and tissue distribution of small molecules such as targeting to a specific tissue of interest, enhancing their systemic circulation, and enlarging their therapeutic properties. NPs have unique and complicated in vivo disposition properties compared to small molecule drugs due to their complex multifunctionality. Physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling has been a powerful tool in the simulation of the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination (ADME) characteristics of the materials, and it can be used in the characterization and prediction of the systemic disposition, toxicity, efficacy, and target exposure of various types of nanoparticles. In this review, recent advances in PBPK model applications related to the nanoparticles with unique properties, and dispositional features in the biological systems, ADME characteristics, the description of transport processes of nanoparticles in the PBPK model, and the challenges in PBPK model development of nanoparticles are delineated and juxtaposed with those encountered in small molecule models. Nanoparticle related, non-nanoparticle-related, and interspecies-scaling methods applied in PBPK modeling are reviewed. In vitro to in vivo extrapolation (IVIVE) methods being a promising computational tool to provide in vivo predictions from the results of in vitro and in silico studies are discussed. Finally, as a recent advancement ML/AI-based approaches and challenges in PBPK modeling in the estimation of ADME parameters and pharmacokinetic (PK) analysis results are introduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozlem Ozbek
- Chemical Engineering Department, Bogazici University, Bebek 34342 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Destina Ekingen Genc
- Chemical Engineering Department, Bogazici University, Bebek 34342 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Kutlu O. Ulgen
- Chemical Engineering Department, Bogazici University, Bebek 34342 Istanbul, Turkey
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Lin HC, Sakolish C, Moyer HL, Carmichael PL, Baltazar MT, Ferguson SS, Stanko JP, Hewitt P, Rusyn I, Chiu WA. An in vitro-in silico workflow for predicting renal clearance of PFAS. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2024; 489:117015. [PMID: 38917890 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2024.117015] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have a wide range of elimination half-lives (days to years) in humans, thought to be in part due to variation in proximal tubule reabsorption. While human biomonitoring studies provide important data for some PFAS, renal clearance (CLrenal) predictions for hundreds of PFAS in commerce requires experimental studies with in vitro models and physiologically-based in vitro-to-in vivo extrapolation (IVIVE). Options for studying renal proximal tubule pharmacokinetics include cultures of renal proximal tubule epithelial cells (RPTECs) and/or microphysiological systems. This study aimed to compare CLrenal predictions for PFAS using in vitro models of varying complexity (96-well plates, static 24-well Transwells and a fluidic microphysiological model, all using human telomerase reverse transcriptase-immortalized and OAT1-overexpressing RPTECs combined with in silico physiologically-based IVIVE. Three PFAS were tested: one with a long half-life (PFOS) and two with shorter half-lives (PFHxA and PFBS). PFAS were added either individually (5 μM) or as a mixture (2 μM of each substance) for 48 h. Bayesian methods were used to fit concentrations measured in media and cells to a three-compartmental model to obtain the in vitro permeability rates, which were then used as inputs for a physiologically-based IVIVE model to estimate in vivo CLrenal. Our predictions for human CLrenal of PFAS were highly concordant with available values from in vivo human studies. The relative values of CLrenal between slow- and faster-clearance PFAS were most highly concordant between predictions from 2D culture and corresponding in vivo values. However, the predictions from the more complex model (with or without flow) exhibited greater concordance with absolute CLrenal. Overall, we conclude that a combined in vitro-in silico workflow can predict absolute CLrenal values, and effectively distinguish between PFAS with slow and faster clearance, thereby allowing prioritization of PFAS with a greater potential for bioaccumulation in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsing-Chieh Lin
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Courtney Sakolish
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Haley L Moyer
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Paul L Carmichael
- Unilever Safety and Environmental Assurance Centre, Bedfordshire MK44 1LQ, UK
| | - Maria T Baltazar
- Unilever Safety and Environmental Assurance Centre, Bedfordshire MK44 1LQ, UK
| | - Stephen S Ferguson
- Division of Translational Toxicology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| | - Jason P Stanko
- Division of Translational Toxicology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| | - Philip Hewitt
- Chemical and Preclinical Safety, Merck Healthcare KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Ivan Rusyn
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Weihsueh A Chiu
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA.
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Lampi MA, Therkorn JH, Kung MH, Isola AL, Barter RA. Current frameworks for environmental and health assessment of hydrocarbon streams and products are flexible and ready for alternative non crude oil-based feeds. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2024; 13:tfae114. [PMID: 39086642 PMCID: PMC11289309 DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfae114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Hazard and risk assessment of complex petroleum-derived substances has been in a state of continuous improvement since the 1970s, with the development of approaches that continue to be applied and refined. Alternative feeds are defined here as those coming into a refinery or chemical plant that are not hydrocarbons from oil and gas extraction such as biologically derived oils, pyrolysis oil from biomass or other, and recycled materials. These feeds are increasingly being used for production of liquid hydrocarbon streams, and hence, there is a need to assess these alternatives, subsequent manufacturing and refining processes and end products for potential risk to humans and the environment. Here we propose a tiered, problem formulation-driven framework for assessing the safety of hydrocarbon streams and products derived from alternative feedstocks in use. The scope of this work is only focused on petrochemical safety assessment, though the principles may be applicable to other chemistries. The framework integrates combinations of analytical chemistry, in silico and in vitro tools, and targeted testing together with conservative assumptions/approaches to leverage existing health, environmental, and exposure data, where applicable. The framework enables the identification of scenarios where de novo hazard and/or exposure assessments may be needed and incorporates tiered approaches to do so. It can be applied to enable decisions efficiently and transparently and can encompass a wide range of compositional space in both feedstocks and finished products, with the objective of ensuring safety in manufacturing and use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Lampi
- ExxonMobil Technology and Engineering Company, ExxonMobil Biomedical Sciences, Inc., 1545 US 22 East, Annandale, NJ 08801, United States
| | - Jennifer H Therkorn
- ExxonMobil Technology and Engineering Company, ExxonMobil Biomedical Sciences, Inc., 1545 US 22 East, Annandale, NJ 08801, United States
| | - Ming H Kung
- ExxonMobil Technology and Engineering Company, ExxonMobil Biomedical Sciences, Inc., 1545 US 22 East, Annandale, NJ 08801, United States
| | - Allison L Isola
- ExxonMobil Product Solutions Company, Product Stewardship & Regulatory Affairs, 22777 Springwoods Village Parkway, Spring, TX 77389, United States
| | - Robert A Barter
- ExxonMobil Technology and Engineering Company, Research Organization, 1545 US 22 East, Annandale, NJ 08801, United States
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10
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Gonnabathula P, Choi MK, Li M, Kabadi SV, Fairman K. Utility of life stage-specific chemical risk assessments based on New Approach Methodologies (NAMs). Food Chem Toxicol 2024; 190:114789. [PMID: 38844066 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2024.114789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/17/2024]
Abstract
The safety assessments for chemicals targeted for use or expected to be exposed to specific life stages, including infancy, childhood, pregnancy and lactation, and geriatrics, need to account for extrapolation of data from healthy adults to these populations to assess their human health risk. However, often adequate and relevant toxicity or pharmacokinetic (PK) data of chemicals in specific life stages are not available. For such chemicals, New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), such as physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling, biologically based dose response (BBDR) modeling, in vitro to in vivo extrapolation (IVIVE), etc. can be used to understand the variability of exposure and effects of chemicals in specific life stages and assess their associated risk. A life stage specific PBPK model incorporates the physiological and biochemical changes associated with each life stage and simulates their impact on the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination (ADME) of these chemicals. In our review, we summarize the parameterization of life stage models based on New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) and discuss case studies that highlight the utility of a life stage based PBPK modeling for risk assessment. In addition, we discuss the utility of artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning (ML) and other computational models, such as those based on in vitro data, as tools for estimation of relevant physiological or physicochemical parameters and selection of model. We also discuss existing gaps in the available toxicological datasets and current challenges that need to be overcome to expand the utility of NAMs for life stage-specific chemical risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavani Gonnabathula
- Division of Biochemical Toxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR), US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Jefferson, AR, 72079, USA
| | - Me-Kyoung Choi
- Division of Biochemical Toxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR), US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Jefferson, AR, 72079, USA
| | - Miao Li
- Division of Biochemical Toxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR), US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Jefferson, AR, 72079, USA
| | - Shruti V Kabadi
- Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN), US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), College Park, MD, 20740, USA
| | - Kiara Fairman
- Division of Biochemical Toxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR), US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Jefferson, AR, 72079, USA.
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11
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Wu Y, Sinclair G, Avanasi R, Pecquet A. Physiologically based kinetic (PBK) modeling of propiconazole using a machine learning-enhanced read-across approach for interspecies extrapolation. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 189:108804. [PMID: 38857551 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108804] [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: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
A significant challenge in the traditional human health risk assessment of agrochemicals is the uncertainty in quantifying the interspecies differences between animal models and humans. To work toward a more accurate and animal-free risk determination, new approaches such as physiologically based kinetic (PBK) modeling have been used to perform dosimetry extrapolation from animals to humans. However, the regulatory use and acceptance of PBK modeling is limited for chemicals that lack in vivo animal pharmacokinetic (PK) data, given the inability to evaluate models. To address these challenges, this study developed PBK models in the absence of in vivo PK data for the fungicide propiconazole, an activator of constitutive androstane receptor (CAR)/pregnane X receptor (PXR). A fit-for-purpose read-across approach was integrated with hierarchical clustering - an unsupervised machine learning algorithm, to bridge the knowledge gap. The integration allowed the incorporation of a broad spectrum of attributes for analog consideration, and enabled the analog selection in a simple, reproducible, and objective manner. The applicability was evaluated and demonstrated using penconazole (source) and three pseudo-unknown target chemicals (epoxiconazole, tebuconazole and triadimefon). Applying this machine learning-enhanced read-across approach, difenoconazole was selected as the most appropriate analog for propiconazole. A mouse PBK model was developed and evaluated for difenoconazole (source), with the mode of action of CAR/PXR activation incorporated to simulate the in vivo autoinduction of metabolism. The difenoconazole mouse model then served as a template for constructing the propiconazole mouse model. A parallelogram approach was subsequently applied to develop the propiconazole rat and human models, enabling a quantitative assessment of interspecies differences in dosimetry. This integrated approach represents a substantial advancement toward refining risk assessment of propiconazole within the framework of animal alternative safety assessment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoxing Wu
- Product Safety, Syngenta Crop Protection LLC, Greensboro NC 27409, USA.
| | - Gabriel Sinclair
- Product Safety, Syngenta Crop Protection LLC, Greensboro NC 27409, USA
| | | | - Alison Pecquet
- Product Safety, Syngenta Crop Protection LLC, Greensboro NC 27409, USA
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12
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Azizah RN, Verheyen GR, Shkedy Z, Van Miert S. Overview of in vitro-in vivo extrapolation approaches for the risk assessment of nanomaterial toxicity. NANOIMPACT 2024; 35:100524. [PMID: 39059748 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2024.100524] [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: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Nanomaterials are increasingly used in many applications due to their enhanced properties. To ensure their safety for humans and the environment, nanomaterials need to be evaluated for their potential risk. The risk assessment analysis on the nanomaterials based on animal or in vivo studies is accompanied by several concerns, including animal welfare, time and cost needed for the studies. Therefore, incorporating in vitro studies in the risk assessment process is increasingly considered. To be able to analyze the potential risk of nanomaterial to human health, there are factors to take into account. Utilizing in vitro data in the risk assessment analysis requires methods that can be used to translate in vitro data to predict in vivo phenomena (in vitro-in vivo extrapolation (IVIVE) methods) to be incorporated, to obtain a more accurate result. Apart from the experiments and species conversion (for example, translation between the cell culture, animal and human), the challenge also includes the unique properties of nanomaterials that might cause them to behave differently compared to the same materials in a bulk form. This overview presents the IVIVE techniques that are developed to extrapolate pharmacokinetics data or doses. A brief example of the IVIVE methods for chemicals is provided, followed by a more detailed summary of available IVIVE methods applied to nanomaterials. The IVIVE techniques discussed include the comparison between in vitro and in vivo studies, methods to rene the dose metric or the in vitro models, allometric approach, mechanistic modeling, Multiple-Path Particle Dosimetry (MPPD), methods using organ burden data and also approaches that are currently being developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahmasari Nur Azizah
- Thomas More University of Applied Sciences, Geel, Belgium; Data Science Institute, CenStat, I-BioStat, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.
| | | | - Ziv Shkedy
- Data Science Institute, CenStat, I-BioStat, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
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13
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Wu X, Chen Y, Kreutz A, Silver B, Tokar EJ. Pluripotent stem cells for target organ developmental toxicity testing. Toxicol Sci 2024; 199:163-171. [PMID: 38547390 PMCID: PMC11131012 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfae037] [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] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Prenatal developmental toxicity research focuses on understanding the potential adverse effects of environmental agents, drugs, and chemicals on the development of embryos and fetuses. Traditional methods involve animal testing, but ethical concerns and the need for human-relevant models have prompted the exploration of alternatives. Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) are versatile cells with the unique ability to differentiate into any cell type, serving as a foundational tool for studying human development. Two-dimensional (2D) PSC models are often chosen for their ease of use and reproducibility for high-throughput screening. However, they lack the complexity of an in vivo environment. Alternatively, three-dimensional (3D) PSC models, such as organoids, offer tissue architecture and intercellular communication more reminiscent of in vivo conditions. However, they are complicated to produce and analyze, usually requiring advanced and expensive techniques. This review discusses recent advances in the use of human PSCs differentiated into brain and heart lineages and emerging tools and methods that can be combined with PSCs to help address important scientific questions in the area of developmental toxicology. These advancements and new approach methods align with the push for more relevant and predictive developmental toxicity assessment, combining innovative techniques with organoid models to advance regulatory decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian Wu
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of Translational Toxicology, NIEHS, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina 27834, USA
| | - Yichang Chen
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of Translational Toxicology, NIEHS, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, USA
| | - Anna Kreutz
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of Translational Toxicology, NIEHS, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, USA
- Inotiv, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27560, USA
| | - Brian Silver
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of Translational Toxicology, NIEHS, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, USA
| | - Erik J Tokar
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of Translational Toxicology, NIEHS, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, USA
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14
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Bobu E, Saszet K, Tóth ZR, Páll E, Gyulavári T, Baia L, Magyari K, Baia M. TiO 2-Alginate-Chitosan-Based Composites for Skin Tissue Engineering Applications. Gels 2024; 10:358. [PMID: 38920905 PMCID: PMC11203036 DOI: 10.3390/gels10060358] [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: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The UV-B component of sunlight damages the DNA in skin cells, which can lead to skin cancer and premature aging. Therefore, it is necessary to use creams that also contain UV-active substances. Many sunscreens contain titanium dioxide due to its capacity to absorb UV-B wavelengths. In the present study, titan dioxide was introduced in alginate and chitosan-alginate hydrogel composites that are often involved as scaffold compositions in tissue engineering applications. Alginate and chitosan were chosen due to their important role in skin regeneration and skin protection. The composites were cross-linked with calcium ions and investigated using FT-IR, Raman, and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The stability of the obtained samples under solar irradiation for skin protection and regeneration was analyzed. Then, the hydrogel composites were assayed in vitro by immersing them in simulated body fluid and exposing them to solar simulator radiation for 10 min. The samples were found to be stable under solar light, and a thin apatite layer covered the surface of the sample with the two biopolymers and titanium dioxide. The in vitro cell viability assay suggested that the anatase phase in alginate and chitosan-alginate hydrogel composites have a positive impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Bobu
- Faculty of Physics, Doctoral School of Physics, Babeș-Bolyai University, M. Kogălniceanu 1, RO-400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (E.B.); (K.S.); (Z.-R.T.)
| | - Kata Saszet
- Faculty of Physics, Doctoral School of Physics, Babeș-Bolyai University, M. Kogălniceanu 1, RO-400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (E.B.); (K.S.); (Z.-R.T.)
- Nanostructured Materials and Bio-Nano-Interfaces Center, Interdisciplinary Research Institute on Bio-Nano-Sciences, Babeș-Bolyai University, Treboniu Laurian 42, RO-400271 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Zsejke-Réka Tóth
- Faculty of Physics, Doctoral School of Physics, Babeș-Bolyai University, M. Kogălniceanu 1, RO-400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (E.B.); (K.S.); (Z.-R.T.)
- Nanostructured Materials and Bio-Nano-Interfaces Center, Interdisciplinary Research Institute on Bio-Nano-Sciences, Babeș-Bolyai University, Treboniu Laurian 42, RO-400271 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Emőke Páll
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Science and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Tamás Gyulavári
- Department of Applied and Environmental Chemistry, University of Szeged, Rerrich B. sqr. 1., 6720 Szeged, Hungary;
| | - Lucian Baia
- Nanostructured Materials and Bio-Nano-Interfaces Center, Interdisciplinary Research Institute on Bio-Nano-Sciences, Babeș-Bolyai University, Treboniu Laurian 42, RO-400271 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Faculty of Physics, Babeș-Bolyai University, M. Kogălniceanu 1, RO-400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Institute of Research-Development-Innovation in Applied Natural Sciences, Babeș-Bolyai University, 400294 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Klara Magyari
- Nanostructured Materials and Bio-Nano-Interfaces Center, Interdisciplinary Research Institute on Bio-Nano-Sciences, Babeș-Bolyai University, Treboniu Laurian 42, RO-400271 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- INSPIRE Research Platform InfoBioNano4Health & Biomedical Imaging, Babeș Bolyai University, Arany Janos 11, 400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Monica Baia
- Faculty of Physics, Babeș-Bolyai University, M. Kogălniceanu 1, RO-400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Institute of Research-Development-Innovation in Applied Natural Sciences, Babeș-Bolyai University, 400294 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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15
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Bhat AA, Afzal M, Goyal A, Gupta G, Thapa R, Almalki WH, Kazmi I, Alzarea SI, Shahwan M, Paudel KR, Ali H, Sahu D, Prasher P, Singh SK, Dua K. The impact of formaldehyde exposure on lung inflammatory disorders: Insights into asthma, bronchitis, and pulmonary fibrosis. Chem Biol Interact 2024; 394:111002. [PMID: 38604395 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2024.111002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Lung inflammatory disorders are a major global health burden, impacting millions of people and raising rates of morbidity and death across many demographic groups. An industrial chemical and common environmental contaminant, formaldehyde (FA) presents serious health concerns to the respiratory system, including the onset and aggravation of lung inflammatory disorders. Epidemiological studies have shown significant associations between FA exposure levels and the incidence and severity of several respiratory diseases. FA causes inflammation in the respiratory tract via immunological activation, oxidative stress, and airway remodelling, aggravating pre-existing pulmonary inflammation and compromising lung function. Additionally, FA functions as a respiratory sensitizer, causing allergic responses and hypersensitivity pneumonitis in sensitive people. Understanding the complicated processes behind formaldehyde-induced lung inflammation is critical for directing targeted strategies aimed at minimizing environmental exposures and alleviating the burden of formaldehyde-related lung illnesses on global respiratory health. This abstract explores the intricate relationship between FA exposure and lung inflammatory diseases, including asthma, bronchitis, allergic inflammation, lung injury and pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asif Ahmad Bhat
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jagatpura, 302017, Mahal Road, Jaipur, India
| | - Muhammad Afzal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacy Program, Batterjee Medical College, P.O. Box 6231, Jeddah, 21442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahsas Goyal
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura, U.P., India
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun, 248007, India; Centre of Medical and Bio-allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Riya Thapa
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jagatpura, 302017, Mahal Road, Jaipur, India
| | - Waleed Hassan Almalki
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Imran Kazmi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sami I Alzarea
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, 72341, Sakaka, Aljouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Moyad Shahwan
- Centre of Medical and Bio-allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates; Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Ajman University, Ajman, 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Keshav Raj Paudel
- Centre for Inflammation, Centenary Institute and University of Technology Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life Sciences, Sydney, NSW, 2050, Australia
| | - Haider Ali
- Centre for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, India; Department of Pharmacology, Kyrgyz State Medical College, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
| | - Dipak Sahu
- Department of Pharmacology, Amity University, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India
| | - Parteek Prasher
- Department of Chemistry, University of Petroleum & Energy Studies, Energy Acres, Dehradun, 248007, India
| | - Sachin Kumar Singh
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, 144411, India; Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia; School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500 Sunway City, Malaysia
| | - Kamal Dua
- Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia; Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia; Uttaranchal Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, India.
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16
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Rodríguez-Belenguer P, Mangas-Sanjuan V, Soria-Olivas E, Pastor M. Integrating Mechanistic and Toxicokinetic Information in Predictive Models of Cholestasis. J Chem Inf Model 2024; 64:2775-2788. [PMID: 37660324 PMCID: PMC11005038 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.3c00945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Drug development involves the thorough assessment of the candidate's safety and efficacy. In silico toxicology (IST) methods can contribute to the assessment, complementing in vitro and in vivo experimental methods, since they have many advantages in terms of cost and time. Also, they are less demanding concerning the requirements of product and experimental animals. One of these methods, Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationships (QSAR), has been proven successful in predicting simple toxicity end points but has more difficulties in predicting end points involving more complex phenomena. We hypothesize that QSAR models can produce better predictions of these end points by combining multiple QSAR models describing simpler biological phenomena and incorporating pharmacokinetic (PK) information, using quantitative in vitro to in vivo extrapolation (QIVIVE) models. In this study, we applied our methodology to the prediction of cholestasis and compared it with direct QSAR models. Our results show a clear increase in sensitivity. The predictive quality of the models was further assessed to mimic realistic conditions where the query compounds show low similarity with the training series. Again, our methodology shows clear advantages over direct QSAR models in these situations. We conclude that the proposed methodology could improve existing methodologies and could be suitable for being applied to other toxicity end points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Rodríguez-Belenguer
- Research
Programme on Biomedical Informatics (GRIB), Department of Medicine
and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra,
Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
- Department
of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Universitat de València, 46100 Valencia, Spain
| | - Victor Mangas-Sanjuan
- Department
of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Universitat de València, 46100 Valencia, Spain
- Interuniversity
Research Institute for Molecular Recognition and Technological Development, Universitat Politècnica de València, 46100 Valencia, Spain
| | - Emilio Soria-Olivas
- IDAL,
Intelligent Data Analysis Laboratory, ETSE, Universitat de València, 46100 Valencia, Spain
| | - Manuel Pastor
- Research
Programme on Biomedical Informatics (GRIB), Department of Medicine
and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra,
Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
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17
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Berridge B, Pierson J, Pettit S, Stockbridge N. Challenging the status quo: a framework for mechanistic and human-relevant cardiovascular safety screening. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2024; 6:1352783. [PMID: 38590785 PMCID: PMC10999590 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2024.1352783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Traditional approaches to preclinical drug safety assessment have generally protected human patients from unintended adverse effects. However, these assessments typically occur too late to make changes in the formulation or in phase 1 and beyond, are highly dependent on animal studies and have the potential to lead to the termination of useful drugs due to liabilities in animals that are not applicable in patients. Collectively, these elements come at great detriment to both patients and the drug development sector. This phenomenon is particularly problematic in the area of cardiovascular safety assessment where preclinical attrition is high. We believe that a more efficient and translational approach can be defined. A multi-tiered assessment that leverages our understanding of human cardiovascular biology, applies human cell-based in vitro characterizations of cardiovascular responses to insult, and incorporates computational models of pharmacokinetic relationships would enable earlier and more translational identification of human-relevant liabilities. While this will take time to develop, the ultimate goal would be to implement such assays both in the lead selection phase as well as through regulatory phases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer Pierson
- Health and Environmental Sciences Institute, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Syril Pettit
- Health and Environmental Sciences Institute, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Norman Stockbridge
- US Food and Drug Administration, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Silver Spring, MD, United States
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18
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Stueckle TA, Jensen J, Coyle JP, Derk R, Wagner A, Dinu CZ, Kornberg TG, Friend SA, Dozier A, Agarwal S, Gupta RK, Rojanasakul LW. In vitro inflammation and toxicity assessment of pre- and post-incinerated organomodified nanoclays to macrophages using high-throughput screening approaches. Part Fibre Toxicol 2024; 21:16. [PMID: 38509617 PMCID: PMC10956245 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-024-00577-7] [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: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Organomodified nanoclays (ONC), two-dimensional montmorillonite with organic coatings, are increasingly used to improve nanocomposite properties. However, little is known about pulmonary health risks along the nanoclay life cycle even with increased evidence of airborne particulate exposures in occupational environments. Recently, oropharyngeal aspiration exposure to pre- and post-incinerated ONC in mice caused low grade, persistent lung inflammation with a pro-fibrotic signaling response with unknown mode(s) of action. We hypothesized that the organic coating presence and incineration status of nanoclays determine the inflammatory cytokine secretary profile and cytotoxic response of macrophages. To test this hypothesis differentiated human macrophages (THP-1) were acutely exposed (0-20 µg/cm2) to pristine, uncoated nanoclay (CloisNa), an ONC (Clois30B), their incinerated byproducts (I-CloisNa and I-Clois30B), and crystalline silica (CS) followed by cytotoxicity and inflammatory endpoints. Macrophages were co-exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or LPS-free medium to assess the role of priming the NF-κB pathway in macrophage response to nanoclay treatment. Data were compared to inflammatory responses in male C57Bl/6J mice following 30 and 300 µg/mouse aspiration exposure to the same particles. RESULTS In LPS-free media, CloisNa exposure caused mitochondrial depolarization while Clois30B exposure caused reduced macrophage viability, greater cytotoxicity, and significant damage-associated molecular patterns (IL-1α and ATP) release compared to CloisNa and unexposed controls. LPS priming with low CloisNa doses caused elevated cathepsin B/Caspage-1/IL-1β release while higher doses resulted in apoptosis. Clois30B exposure caused dose-dependent THP-1 cell pyroptosis evidenced by Cathepsin B and IL-1β release and Gasdermin D cleavage. Incineration ablated the cytotoxic and inflammatory effects of Clois30B while I-CloisNa still retained some mild inflammatory potential. Comparative analyses suggested that in vitro macrophage cell viability, inflammasome endpoints, and pro-inflammatory cytokine profiles significantly correlated to mouse bronchioalveolar lavage inflammation metrics including inflammatory cell recruitment. CONCLUSIONS Presence of organic coating and incineration status influenced inflammatory and cytotoxic responses following exposure to human macrophages. Clois30B, with a quaternary ammonium tallow coating, induced a robust cell membrane damage and pyroptosis effect which was eliminated after incineration. Conversely, incinerated nanoclay exposure primarily caused elevated inflammatory cytokine release from THP-1 cells. Collectively, pre-incinerated nanoclay displayed interaction with macrophage membrane components (molecular initiating event), increased pro-inflammatory mediators, and increased inflammatory cell recruitment (two key events) in the lung fibrosis adverse outcome pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Todd A Stueckle
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 1095 Willowdale Road, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA.
| | - Jake Jensen
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 1095 Willowdale Road, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Jayme P Coyle
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 1095 Willowdale Road, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Raymond Derk
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 1095 Willowdale Road, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Alixandra Wagner
- Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA
| | - Cerasela Zoica Dinu
- Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA
| | - Tiffany G Kornberg
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 1095 Willowdale Road, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Sherri A Friend
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 1095 Willowdale Road, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Alan Dozier
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 1095 Willowdale Road, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Sushant Agarwal
- Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA
| | - Rakesh K Gupta
- Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA
| | - Liying W Rojanasakul
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 1095 Willowdale Road, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
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19
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Langan LM, Paparella M, Burden N, Constantine L, Margiotta-Casaluci L, Miller TH, Moe SJ, Owen SF, Schaffert A, Sikanen T. Big Question to Developing Solutions: A Decade of Progress in the Development of Aquatic New Approach Methodologies from 2012 to 2022. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2024; 43:559-574. [PMID: 36722131 PMCID: PMC10390655 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
In 2012, 20 key questions related to hazard and exposure assessment and environmental and health risks of pharmaceuticals and personal care products in the natural environment were identified. A decade later, this article examines the current level of knowledge around one of the lowest-ranking questions at that time, number 19: "Can nonanimal testing methods be developed that will provide equivalent or better hazard data compared with current in vivo methods?" The inclusion of alternative methods that replace, reduce, or refine animal testing within the regulatory context of risk and hazard assessment of chemicals generally faces many hurdles, although this varies both by organism (human-centric vs. other), sector, and geographical region or country. Focusing on the past 10 years, only works that might reasonably be considered to contribute to advancements in the field of aquatic environmental risk assessment are highlighted. Particular attention is paid to methods of contemporary interest and importance, representing progress in (1) the development of methods which provide equivalent or better data compared with current in vivo methods such as bioaccumulation, (2) weight of evidence, or (3) -omic-based applications. Evolution and convergence of these risk assessment areas offer the basis for fundamental frameshifts in how data are collated and used for the protection of taxa across the breadth of the aquatic environment. Looking to the future, we are at a tipping point, with a need for a global and inclusive approach to establish consensus. Bringing together these methods (both new and old) for regulatory assessment and decision-making will require a concerted effort and orchestration. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:559-574. © 2023 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura M Langan
- Department of Environmental Science, Baylor University, One Bear Place #97266, Waco, TX, 76798, USA
| | - Martin Paparella
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innrain 80, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Natalie Burden
- National Centre for the 3Rs (NC3Rs), Gibbs Building, 215 Euston Road, London NW1 2BE, UK
| | | | - Luigi Margiotta-Casaluci
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King’s College London, London SE1 9NQ, UK
| | - Thomas H. Miller
- Centre for Pollution Research & Policy, Environmental Sciences, Brunel University London, London, UK
| | - S. Jannicke Moe
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research, Økernveien 94, 0579 Oslo, Norway
| | - Stewart F. Owen
- AstraZeneca, Global Sustainability, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK10 2NA, UK
| | - Alexandra Schaffert
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innrain 80, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Tiina Sikanen
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science, University of Helsinki, Yliopistonkatu 3, Helsinki, 00100, Finland
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20
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Silva MH. Investigating open access new approach methods (NAM) to assess biological points of departure: A case study with 4 neurotoxic pesticides. Curr Res Toxicol 2024; 6:100156. [PMID: 38404712 PMCID: PMC10891343 DOI: 10.1016/j.crtox.2024.100156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Open access new approach methods (NAM) in the US EPA ToxCast program and NTP Integrated Chemical Environment (ICE) were used to investigate activities of four neurotoxic pesticides: endosulfan, fipronil, propyzamide and carbaryl. Concordance of in vivo regulatory points of departure (POD) adjusted for interspecies extrapolation (AdjPOD) to modelled human Administered Equivalent Dose (AEDHuman) was assessed using 3-compartment or Adult/Fetal PBTK in vitro to in vivo extrapolation. Model inputs were from Tier 1 (High throughput transcriptomics: HTTr, high throughput phenotypic profiling: HTPP) and Tier 2 (single target: ToxCast) assays. HTTr identified gene expression signatures associated with potential neurotoxicity for endosulfan, propyzamide and carbaryl in non-neuronal MCF-7 and HepaRG cells. The HTPP assay in U-2 OS cells detected potent effects on DNA endpoints for endosulfan and carbaryl, and mitochondria with fipronil (propyzamide was inactive). The most potent ToxCast assays were concordant with specific components of each chemical mode of action (MOA). Predictive adult IVIVE models produced fold differences (FD) < 10 between the AEDHuman and the measured in vivo AdjPOD. The 3-compartment model was concordant (i.e., smallest FD) for endosulfan, fipronil and carbaryl, and PBTK was concordant for propyzamide. The most potent AEDHuman predictions for each chemical showed HTTr, HTPP and ToxCast were mainly concordant with in vivo AdjPODs but assays were less concordant with MOAs. This was likely due to the cell types used for testing and/or lack of metabolic capabilities and pathways available in vivo. The Fetal PBTK model had larger FDs than adult models and was less predictive overall.
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21
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Reale E, Zare Jeddi M, Paini A, Connolly A, Duca R, Cubadda F, Benfenati E, Bessems J, S Galea K, Dirven H, Santonen T, M Koch H, Jones K, Sams C, Viegas S, Kyriaki M, Campisi L, David A, Antignac JP, B Hopf N. Human biomonitoring and toxicokinetics as key building blocks for next generation risk assessment. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 184:108474. [PMID: 38350256 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108474] [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: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Human health risk assessment is historically built upon animal testing, often following Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) test guidelines and exposure assessments. Using combinations of human relevant in vitro models, chemical analysis and computational (in silico) approaches bring advantages compared to animal studies. These include a greater focus on the human species and on molecular mechanisms and kinetics, identification of Adverse Outcome Pathways and downstream Key Events as well as the possibility of addressing susceptible populations and additional endpoints. Much of the advancement and progress made in the Next Generation Risk Assessment (NGRA) have been primarily focused on new approach methodologies (NAMs) and physiologically based kinetic (PBK) modelling without incorporating human biomonitoring (HBM). The integration of toxicokinetics (TK) and PBK modelling is an essential component of NGRA. PBK models are essential for describing in quantitative terms the TK processes with a focus on the effective dose at the expected target site. Furthermore, the need for PBK models is amplified by the increasing scientific and regulatory interest in aggregate and cumulative exposure as well as interactions of chemicals in mixtures. Since incorporating HBM data strengthens approaches and reduces uncertainties in risk assessment, here we elaborate on the integrated use of TK, PBK modelling and HBM in chemical risk assessment highlighting opportunities as well as challenges and limitations. Examples are provided where HBM and TK/PBK modelling can be used in both exposure assessment and hazard characterization shifting from external exposure and animal dose/response assays to animal-free, internal exposure-based NGRA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Reale
- Centre for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Maryam Zare Jeddi
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), the Netherlands
| | | | - Alison Connolly
- UCD Centre for Safety & Health at Work, School of Public Health, Physiotherapy, and Sports Science, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8, Dublin, Ireland for Climate and Air Pollution Studies, Physics, School of Natural Science and the Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland, University Road, Galway H91 CF50, Ireland
| | - Radu Duca
- Unit Environmental Hygiene and Human Biological Monitoring, Department of Health Protection, Laboratoire national de santé (LNS), 1, Rue Louis Rech, 3555 Dudelange, Luxembourg; Environment and Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Francesco Cubadda
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità - National Institute of Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Emilio Benfenati
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, 20156 Milano, Italy
| | - Jos Bessems
- VITO HEALTH, Flemish Institute for Technological Research, 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Karen S Galea
- Institute of Occupational Medicine (IOM), Research Avenue North, Riccarton, Edinburgh EH14 4AP, UK
| | - Hubert Dirven
- Department of Climate and Environmental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tiina Santonen
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health (FIOH), P.O. Box 40, FI-00032 Työterveyslaitos, Finland
| | - Holger M Koch
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bürkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789 Bochum, Germany
| | - Kate Jones
- HSE - Health and Safety Executive, Harpur Hill, Buxton SK17 9JN, UK
| | - Craig Sams
- HSE - Health and Safety Executive, Harpur Hill, Buxton SK17 9JN, UK
| | - Susana Viegas
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Comprehensive Health Research Center, CHRC, NOVA University Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Machera Kyriaki
- Benaki Phytopathological Institute, 8, Stephanou Delta Street, 14561 Kifissia, Athens, Greece
| | - Luca Campisi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; Flashpoint srl, Via Norvegia 56, 56021 Cascina (PI), Italy
| | - Arthur David
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail)-UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | | | - Nancy B Hopf
- Centre for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, Switzerland.
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22
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Kim D, Shin Y, Kim HS, Park KH, Bae ON. An integrated in vitro approach to identifying chemically induced oxidative stress and toxicity in mitochondria. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 349:140857. [PMID: 38070616 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140857] [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: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Growing concerns exist about increasing chemical usage and the potential health risks. Developing an efficient strategy to evaluate or predict the toxicity of chemicals is necessary. The mitochondria are essential organelles for cell maintenance and survival but also serve as one of the main targets of toxic chemicals. Mitochondria play an important role in the pathology of respiratory disease, and many environmental chemicals may induce impairment of the respiratory system through mitochondrial damage. This study aimed to develop integrated in vitro approaches to identify chemicals that could induce adverse health effects by increasing mitochondria-mediated oxidative stress using the H441 cells, which have a club-cell-like phenotype. Twenty-six environmental toxicants (biocides, phthalates, bisphenols, and particles) were tested, and each parameter was compared with eleven reference compounds. The inhibitory concentrations (IC20 and IC50) and benchmark doses (BMD) of the tested compounds were estimated from three in vitro assays, and the toxic concentration was determined. At the lowest IC20, the effects of compounds on mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were compared. Principal component analysis and k-mean clustering were performed to cluster the chemicals that had comparable effects on the cells. Chemicals that induce mitochondrial damage at different concentrations were used for an in-depth high-tier assessment and classification as electron transport system (ETS) uncoupling or inhibiting agents. Additionally, using in vitro to in vivo extrapolation (IVIVE) tools, equivalent administration doses and maximum plasma concentrations of tested compounds in human were estimated. This study suggests an in vitro approach to identifying mitochondrial damage by integrating several in vitro toxicity tests and calculation modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghyun Kim
- College of Pharmacy Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University ERICA Campus, Ansan, South Korea.
| | - Yusun Shin
- College of Pharmacy Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University ERICA Campus, Ansan, South Korea.
| | - Hyung Sik Kim
- Division of Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, South Korea.
| | - Kyung-Hwa Park
- Division of Chemical Research, National Institute of Environmental Research, Incheon, South Korea.
| | - Ok-Nam Bae
- College of Pharmacy Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University ERICA Campus, Ansan, South Korea.
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23
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Carta G, van der Stel W, Scuric EWJ, Capinha L, Delp J, Bennekou SH, Forsby A, Walker P, Leist M, van de Water B, Jennings P. Transcriptional landscape of mitochondrial electron transport chain inhibition in renal cells. Cell Biol Toxicol 2023; 39:3031-3059. [PMID: 37353587 PMCID: PMC10693540 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-023-09816-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
Analysis of the transcriptomic alterations upon chemical challenge, provides in depth mechanistic information on the compound's toxic mode of action, by revealing specific pathway activation and other transcriptional modulations. Mapping changes in cellular behaviour to chemical insult, facilitates the characterisation of chemical hazard. In this study, we assessed the transcriptional landscape of mitochondrial impairment through the inhibition of the electron transport chain (ETC) in a human renal proximal tubular cell line (RPTEC/TERT1). We identified the unfolded protein response pathway (UPR), particularly the PERK/ATF4 branch as a common cellular response across ETC I, II and III inhibitions. This finding and the specific genes elaborated may aid the identification of mitochondrial liabilities of chemicals in both legacy data and prospective transcriptomic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Carta
- Division of Molecular and Computational Toxicology, Vrije University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Wanda van der Stel
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, Leiden Academic Centre of Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Emma W J Scuric
- Division of Molecular and Computational Toxicology, Vrije University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Liliana Capinha
- Division of Molecular and Computational Toxicology, Vrije University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Johannes Delp
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department inaugurated by the Doerenkamp‑Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | | | - Anna Forsby
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Paul Walker
- Cyprotex Discovery Ltd., Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire, UK
| | - Marcel Leist
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department inaugurated by the Doerenkamp‑Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Bob van de Water
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, Leiden Academic Centre of Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Paul Jennings
- Division of Molecular and Computational Toxicology, Vrije University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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24
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Xie R, Wang X, Xu Y, Zhang L, Ma M, Wang Z. In vitro to in vivo extrapolation for predicting human equivalent dose of phenolic endocrine disrupting chemicals: PBTK model development, biological pathways, outcomes and performance. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 897:165271. [PMID: 37422235 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
In vitro to in vivo (IVIVE) leverages in vitro high-throughput biological responses to predict the corresponding in vivo exposures and further estimate the human safe dose. However, for phenolic endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) linked with complicated biological pathways and adverse outcomes (AO), such as bisphenol A (BPA) and 4-nonylphenol (4-NP), plausible estimation of human equivalent doses (HED) by IVIVE approaches considering various biological pathways and endpoints is still challenging. To explore the capabilities and limitations of IVIVE, this study conducted physiologically based toxicokinetic (PBTK)-IVIVE approaches to derive pathway-specific HEDs using BPA and 4-NP as examples. In vitro HEDs of BPA and 4-NP varied in different adverse outcomes, pathways, and testing endpoints and ranged from 0.0013 to 1.0986 mg/kg bw/day and 0.0551 to 1.7483 mg/kg bw/day, respectively. In vitro HEDs associated with reproductive AOs initiated by PPARα activation and ER agonism were the most sensitive. Model verification suggested the potential of using effective in vitro data to determine reasonable approximation of in vivo HEDs for the same AO (fold differences of most AOs ranged in 0.14-2.74 and better predictions for apical endpoints). Furthermore, system-specific parameters of cardiac output and its fraction, body weight, as well as chemical-specific parameters of partition coefficient and liver metabolic were most sensitive for the PBTK simulations. The results indicated that the application of fit for-purpose PBTK-IVIVE approach could provide credible pathway-specific HEDs and contribute to high throughput prioritization of chemicals in a more realistic scenario.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruili Xie
- Key Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiaodan Wang
- China National Center for Food Safety Risk Assessment, Beijing 100022, China
| | - Yiping Xu
- Key Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China.
| | - Lei Zhang
- China National Center for Food Safety Risk Assessment, Beijing 100022, China.
| | - Mei Ma
- Key Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zijian Wang
- Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
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25
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Zhang L, Zhang Y, Zhu M, Chen L, Wu B. A critical review on quantitative evaluation of aqueous toxicity in water quality assessment. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 342:140159. [PMID: 37716564 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
Conventional chemical techniques have inherent limitations in detecting unknown chemical substances in water. As a result, effect-based methods have emerged as a viable alternative to overcome these limitations. These methods provide more accurate and intuitive evaluations of the toxic effects of water. While numerous studies have been conducted, only a few have been applied to national water quality monitoring. Therefore, it is crucial to develop toxicity evaluation methods and establish thresholds based on quantifying toxicity. This article provides an overview of the development and application of bioanalytical tools, including in vitro and in vivo bioassays. The available methods for quantifying toxicity are then summarized. These methods include aquatic life criteria for assessing the toxicity of a single compound, comprehensive wastewater toxicity testing for all contaminants in a water sample (toxicity units, whole effluent toxicity, the potential ecotoxic effects probe, the potential toxicology method, and the lowest ineffective dilution), methods based on mechanisms and relative toxicity ratios for substances with the same mode of action (the toxicity equivalency factors, toxic equivalents, bioanalytical equivalents), and effect-based trigger values for micropollutants. The article also highlights the advantages and disadvantages of each method. Finally, it proposes potential areas for applying toxicity quantification methods and offers insights into future research directions. This review emphasizes the significance of enhancing the evaluation methods for assessing aqueous toxicity in water quality assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linyu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Mengyuan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Ling Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Bing Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China.
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26
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Cai L, Ke M, Wang H, Wu W, Lin R, Huang P, Lin C. Physiologically based pharmacokinetic model combined with reverse dose method to study the nephrotoxic tolerance dose of tacrolimus. Arch Toxicol 2023; 97:2659-2673. [PMID: 37572130 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-023-03576-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
Nephrotoxicity is the most common side effect that severely limits the clinical application of tacrolimus (TAC), an immunosuppressive agent used in kidney transplant patients. This study aimed to explore the tolerated dose of nephrotoxicity of TAC in individuals with different CYP3A5 genotypes and liver conditions. We established a human whole-body physiological pharmacokinetic (WB-PBPK) model and validated it using data from previous clinical studies. Following the injection of 1 mg/kg TAC into the tail veins of male rats, we developed a rat PBPK model utilizing the drug concentration-time curve obtained by LC-MS/MS. Next, we converted the established rat PBPK model into the human kidney PBPK model. To establish renal concentrations, the BMCL5 of the in vitro CCK-8 toxicity response curve (drug concentration range: 2-80 mol/L) was extrapolated. To further investigate the acceptable levels of nephrotoxicity for several distinct CYP3A5 genotypes and varied hepatic function populations, oral dosing regimens were extrapolated utilizing in vitro-in vivo extrapolation (IVIVE). The PBPK model indicated the tolerated doses of nephrotoxicity were 0.14-0.185 mg/kg (CYP3A5 expressors) and 0.13-0.155 mg/kg (CYP3A5 non-expressors) in normal healthy subjects and 0.07-0.09 mg/kg (CYP3A5 expressors) and 0.06-0.08 mg/kg (CYP3A5 non-expressors) in patients with mild hepatic insufficiency. Further, patients with moderate hepatic insufficiency tolerated doses of 0.045-0.06 mg/kg (CYP3A5 expressors) and 0.04-0.05 mg/kg (CYP3A5 non-expressors), while in patients with moderate hepatic insufficiency, doses of 0.028-0.04 mg/kg (CYP3A5 expressors) and 0.022-0.03 mg/kg (CYP3A5 non-expressors) were tolerated. Overall, our study highlights the combined usage of the PBPK model and the IVIVE approach as a valuable tool for predicting toxicity tolerated doses of a drug in a specific group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limin Cai
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou, 350005, People's Republic of China
- Department of Pharmacy, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Ke
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou, 350005, People's Republic of China
- Department of Pharmacy, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou, 350005, People's Republic of China
- Department of Pharmacy, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanhong Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou, 350005, People's Republic of China
- Department of Pharmacy, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Rongfang Lin
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou, 350005, People's Republic of China
- Department of Pharmacy, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Pinfang Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou, 350005, People's Republic of China
- Department of Pharmacy, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Cuihong Lin
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou, 350005, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Pharmacy, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China.
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27
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Eytcheson SA, Olker JH, Friedman KP, Hornung MW, Degitz SJ. Assessing utility of thyroid in vitro screening assays through comparisons to observed impacts in vivo. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2023; 144:105491. [PMID: 37666444 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2023.105491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
To better understand endocrine disruption, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (USEPA) Endocrine Disruptor Screening Program (EDSP) utilizes a two-tiered approach to investigate the potential of a chemical to interact with the estrogen, androgen, or thyroid systems. As in vivo testing lacks the throughput to address data gaps on endocrine bioactivity for thousands of chemicals, in vitro high-throughput screening (HTS) methods are being developed to screen larger chemical libraries. The primary objective of this work was to investigate for how many of the 52 chemicals with weight-of-evidence (WoE) determinations from EDSP Tier 1 screening there are available in vitro HTS data supporting a thyroid impact. HTS data from the USEPA ToxCast program and the EDSP WoE were collected for this analysis. Considering the complexity of endocrine disruption and interpreting HTS data, concordance between in vitro activity and in vivo effects ranges from 58 to 78%. Based on this evaluation, we conclude that the current suite of HTS assays is beneficial for prioritizing chemicals for further inquiry; however, without a more detailed analysis, one cannot conclude whether HTS results are the primary mode-of-action. Furthermore, development of in vitro assays for additional thyroid-relevant molecular initiating events is required to effectively predict in vivo thyroid impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie A Eytcheson
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Oak Ridge, TN, USA; U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, Duluth, MN, 55804, USA
| | - Jennifer H Olker
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, Duluth, MN, 55804, USA
| | - Katie Paul Friedman
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711, USA
| | - Michael W Hornung
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, Duluth, MN, 55804, USA
| | - Sigmund J Degitz
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, Duluth, MN, 55804, USA.
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28
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Bates CA, Haber LT, Moore MM, Schoeny R, Maier A. Development of a framework for risk assessment of dietary carcinogens. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 180:114022. [PMID: 37716495 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.114022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
Although there are a number of guidance documents and frameworks for evaluation of carcinogenicity, none of the current methods fully reflects the state of the science. Common limitations include the absence of dose-response assessment and not considering the impact of differing exposure patterns (e.g., intermittent, high peaks vs. lower, continuous exposures). To address these issues, we have developed a framework for risk assessment of dietary carcinogens. This framework includes an enhanced approach for weight of evidence (WOE) evaluation for genetic toxicology data, with a focus on evaluating studies based on the most recent testing guidance to determine whether a chemical is a mutagen. Included alongside our framework is a discussion of resources for evaluating tissue dose and the temporal pattern of internal dose, taking into account the chemical's toxicokinetics. The framework then integrates the mode of action (MOA) and associated dose metric category with the exposure data to identify the appropriate approach(es) to low-dose extrapolation and level of concern associated with the exposure scenario. This framework provides risk managers with additional flexibility in risk management and risk communication options, beyond the binary choice of linear low-dose extrapolation vs. application of uncertainty factors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lynne T Haber
- Risk Science Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, USA
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29
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Kluxen FM. Difficulties in translating in vitro hazards of local acute irritants to relevant human risk: Learnings from Captan and Folpet. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2023; 143:105467. [PMID: 37549825 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2023.105467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
In order to assess the regulatory value of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), authors should provide their opinion on the physiological and exposure relevance of observed in vitro effects for correlation with predicted in vivo effects. Further, peer-reviewers should be encouraged to request such information during review. This is critical to scientifically transition to animal-free, reliable, robust and -- most importantly -- relevant regulatory toxicology and risk assessment approaches. Recently published studies using NAMs for the fungicides Captan and Folpet illustrate the difficulties and limitations of applying NAMs to adequately assess the toxicological relevance of these substances.
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30
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Kim D, Oh E, Kim H, Baek SM, Cho J, Kim EH, Choi S, Bian Y, Kim W, Bae ON. Mono-(2-ethylhexyl)-phthalate potentiates methylglyoxal-induced blood-brain barrier damage via mitochondria-derived oxidative stress and bioenergetic perturbation. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 179:113985. [PMID: 37572985 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.113985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
Phthalates in contaminated foods and personal care products are one of the most frequently exposed chemicals with a public health concern. Phthalate exposure is related to cardiovascular diseases, including diabetic vascular complications and cerebrovascular diseases, yet the mechanism is still unclear. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity disruption is strongly associated with cardiovascular and neurological disease exacerbation. We investigated BBB damage by di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) or its metabolite mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) using brain endothelial cells and rat models. BBB damage by the subthreshold level of MEHP, but not a DEHP, significantly increased by the presence of methylglyoxal (MG), a reactive dicarbonyl compound whose levels increase in the blood in hyperglycemic conditions in diabetic patients. Significant potentiation in apoptosis and autophagy activation, mitochondria-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and mitochondrial metabolic disturbance were observed in brain ECs by co-exposure to MG and MEHP. N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) restored autophagy activation as well as tight junction protein impairment induced by co-exposure to MG and MEHP. Intraperitoneal administration of MG and MEHP significantly altered mitochondrial membrane potential and tight junction integrity in rat brain endothelium. This study may provide novel insights into enhancing phthalate toxicity in susceptible populations, such as diabetic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghyun Kim
- College of Pharmacy Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, South Korea
| | - Eujin Oh
- College of Pharmacy Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, South Korea
| | - Haram Kim
- College of Pharmacy Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, South Korea
| | - Seung Mi Baek
- College of Pharmacy Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, South Korea
| | - Junho Cho
- College of Pharmacy Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, South Korea
| | - Eun-Hye Kim
- College of Pharmacy Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, South Korea
| | - Sungbin Choi
- College of Pharmacy Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, South Korea
| | - Yiying Bian
- School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China
| | - Wondong Kim
- College of Pharmacy Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, South Korea
| | - Ok-Nam Bae
- College of Pharmacy Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, South Korea.
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Miguel Sanz C, Martinez Navarro M, Caballero Diaz D, Sanchez-Elexpuru G, Di Donato V. Toward the use of novel alternative methods in epilepsy modeling and drug discovery. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1213969. [PMID: 37719765 PMCID: PMC10501616 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1213969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a chronic brain disease and, considering the amount of people affected of all ages worldwide, one of the most common neurological disorders. Over 20 novel antiseizure medications (ASMs) have been released since 1993, yet despite substantial advancements in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind epileptogenesis, over one-third of patients continue to be resistant to available therapies. This is partially explained by the fact that the majority of existing medicines only address seizure suppression rather than underlying processes. Understanding the origin of this neurological illness requires conducting human neurological and genetic studies. However, the limitation of sample sizes, ethical concerns, and the requirement for appropriate controls (many patients have already had anti-epileptic medication exposure) in human clinical trials underscore the requirement for supplemental models. So far, mammalian models of epilepsy have helped to shed light on the underlying causes of the condition, but the high costs related to breeding of the animals, low throughput, and regulatory restrictions on their research limit their usefulness in drug screening. Here, we present an overview of the state of art in epilepsy modeling describing gold standard animal models used up to date and review the possible alternatives for this research field. Our focus will be mainly on ex vivo, in vitro, and in vivo larval zebrafish models contributing to the 3R in epilepsy modeling and drug screening. We provide a description of pharmacological and genetic methods currently available but also on the possibilities offered by the continued development in gene editing methodologies, especially CRISPR/Cas9-based, for high-throughput disease modeling and anti-epileptic drugs testing.
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Kim D, Jeong J, Choi J. Exploring the potential of ToxCast™ data for mechanism-based prioritization of chemicals in regulatory context: Case study with priority existing chemicals (PECs) under K-REACH. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2023:105439. [PMID: 37392832 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2023.105439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have highlighted the potential of ToxCast™ database to mechanism-based prioritization of chemicals. To explore the applicability of ToxCast data in the context of regulatory inventory chemicals, we screened 510 priority existing chemicals (PECs) regulated under the Act on the Registration and Evaluation of Chemical Substances (K-REACH) using ToxCast bioassays. In our analysis, a hit-call data matrix containing 298984 chemical-gene interactions was computed for 949 bioassays with the intended target genes, which enabled the identification of the putative toxicity mechanisms. Based on the reactivity to the chemicals, we analyzed 412 bioassays whose intended target gene families were cytochrome P450, oxidoreductase, transporter, nuclear receptor, steroid hormone, and DNA-binding. We also identified 141 chemicals based on their reactivity in the bioassays. These chemicals are mainly in consumer products including colorants, preservatives, air fresheners, and detergents. Our analysis revealed that in vitro bioactivities were involved in the relevant mechanisms inducing in vivo toxicity; however, this was not sufficient to predict more hazardous chemicals. Overall, the current results point to a potential and limitation in using ToxCast data for chemical prioritization in regulatory context in the absence of suitable in vivo data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghyeon Kim
- School of Environmental Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02504, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaeseong Jeong
- School of Environmental Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02504, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinhee Choi
- School of Environmental Engineering, University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02504, Republic of Korea.
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Dimitrijevic D, Fabian E, Funk-Weyer D, Landsiedel R. Rapid equilibrium dialysis, ultrafiltration or ultracentrifugation? Evaluation of methods to quantify the unbound fraction of substances in plasma. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 651:114-120. [PMID: 36812744 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
In pharmacokinetics plasma protein binding (PPB) is a well-established parameter impacting drug disposition. The unbound fraction (fu) is arguably regarded the effective concentration at the target site. Pharmacology and toxicology, increasingly use in vitro models. The translation of in vitro concentrations to in vivo doses can be supported by toxicokinetic modelling, e.g. physiologically based toxicokinetic models (PBTK). PPB of a test substance is an input parameter for PBTK. We compared three methods to quantify fu: rapid equilibrium dialysis (RED), ultrafiltration (UF) and ultracentrifugation (UC) using twelve substances covering a wide range of Log Pow (-0.1 to 6.8) and molecular weights (151 and 531 g/mol): Acetaminophen, Bisphenol A, Caffeine, Colchicine, Fenarimol, Flutamide, Genistein, Ketoconazole, α-Methyltestosterone, Tamoxifen, Trenbolone and Warfarin. After RED and UF separation, three polar substances (Log Pow < 2) were largely unbound (fu > 70%), while more lipophilic substances were largely bound (fu < 33%). Compared to RED or UF, UC resulted in a generally higher fu of lipophilic substances. fu obtained after RED and UF were more consistent with published data. For half of the substances, UC resulted in fu higher than the reference data. UF, RED and both UF and UC, resulted in lower fu of Flutamide, Ketoconazole and Colchicine, respectively. For fu quantifications, the separation method should be selected according to the test substance's properties. Based on our data, RED is suitable for a broader range of substances while UC and UF are suitable for polar substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dunja Dimitrijevic
- Free University of Berlin, Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Königin-Luise-Straße 2-4, 14195, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Eric Fabian
- BASF SE, Experimental Toxicology and Ecology, Carl-Bosch-Straße 38, 67063, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany.
| | - Dorothee Funk-Weyer
- BASF SE, Experimental Toxicology and Ecology, Carl-Bosch-Straße 38, 67063, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany.
| | - Robert Landsiedel
- Free University of Berlin, Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Königin-Luise-Straße 2-4, 14195, Berlin, Germany; BASF SE, Experimental Toxicology and Ecology, Carl-Bosch-Straße 38, 67063, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany.
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Silva M, Kwok RKH. Use of computational toxicology models to predict toxicological points of departure: A case study with triazine herbicides. Birth Defects Res 2023; 115:525-544. [PMID: 36584090 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.2144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrazine simazine and propazine, widely used triazine herbicides on food crops and in residential areas, disrupt the neuroendocrine system raising human health concerns. USEPA developed a PBPK model based on triazine common Mode of Action (MOA)-suppression of luteinizing hormone surge in female rats-to generate human regulatory points of departure (POD: mg/kg/day). We compared triazine Human Administered Equivalent Dose (AEDHuman mg/kg/day) predictions from open access computational tools to the PBPK PODs to assess concordance. METHODS Computational tools were the following: ToxCast/Tox21 in vitro assays; Toxicogenomic databases to assess concordance with ToxCast/Tox21 targets; integrated chemical environment (ICE) models with ToxCast/Tox21 inputs to predict AEDHuman PODs and population-based age-refined high throughput toxicokinetics (HTTK-Pop) to compare to age-related PBPK PODs. RESULTS ToxCast/Tox21 assays identified critical targets in the triazine common MOA and gene databases; ICE AEDHuman predictions were mainly concordant with the USEPA PBPK PODs quantitatively. Low fold-differences between PBPK POD and ICE AEDHuman predictions indicated that the ICE models are health-protective. HTTK-Pop age-refinements were within 10-fold of the USEPA PBPK PODs. CONCLUSIONS CompTox tools were used to identify assay targets in the MOA and identify potential molecular initiating targets in the adverse outcome pathway for potential use in risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilyn Silva
- Retired from the California Environmental Protection Agency, Sacramento, California, USA
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35
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Magurany KA, Chang X, Clewell R, Coecke S, Haugabrooks E, Marty S. A Pragmatic Framework for the Application of New Approach Methodologies in One Health Toxicological Risk Assessment. Toxicol Sci 2023; 192:kfad012. [PMID: 36782355 PMCID: PMC10109535 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfad012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally, industries and regulatory authorities are faced with an urgent need to assess the potential adverse effects of chemicals more efficiently by embracing new approach methodologies (NAMs). NAMs include cell and tissue methods (in vitro), structure-based/toxicokinetic models (in silico), methods that assess toxicant interactions with biological macromolecules (in chemico), and alternative models. Increasing knowledge on chemical toxicokinetics (what the body does with chemicals) and toxicodynamics (what the chemicals do with the body) obtained from in silico and in vitro systems continues to provide opportunities for modernizing chemical risk assessments. However, directly leveraging in vitro and in silico data for derivation of human health-based reference values has not received regulatory acceptance due to uncertainties in extrapolating NAM results to human populations, including metabolism, complex biological pathways, multiple exposures, interindividual susceptibility and vulnerable populations. The objective of this article is to provide a standardized pragmatic framework that applies integrated approaches with a focus on quantitative in vitro to in vivo extrapolation (QIVIVE) to extrapolate in vitro cellular exposures to human equivalent doses from which human reference values can be derived. The proposed framework intends to systematically account for the complexities in extrapolation and data interpretation to support sound human health safety decisions in diverse industrial sectors (food systems, cosmetics, industrial chemicals, pharmaceuticals etc.). Case studies of chemical entities, using new and existing data, are presented to demonstrate the utility of the proposed framework while highlighting potential sources of human population bias and uncertainty, and the importance of Good Method and Reporting Practices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rebecca Clewell
- 21st Century Tox Consulting, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27517, USA
| | - Sandra Coecke
- European Commission Joint Research Centre, Ispra, Italy
| | - Esther Haugabrooks
- Coca-Cola Company (formerly Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine), Atlanta, Georgia 30313, USA
| | - Sue Marty
- The Dow Chemical Company, Midland, Michigan 48667, USA
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36
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Wang H, Zhang Q, Pi J. Advances in research strategies and approaches for toxicity testing of environmental exposures. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2023; 460:116363. [PMID: 36623737 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2023.116363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Huihui Wang
- Group of Chronic Disease and Environmental Genomics, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China; The Key Laboratory of Liaoning Province on Toxic and Biological Effects of Arsenic, Shenyang 110122, China.
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Jingbo Pi
- The Key Laboratory of Liaoning Province on Toxic and Biological Effects of Arsenic, Shenyang 110122, China; Program of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China..
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Bouwmeester MC, Tao Y, Proença S, van Steenbeek FG, Samsom RA, Nijmeijer SM, Sinnige T, van der Laan LJW, Legler J, Schneeberger K, Kramer NI, Spee B. Drug Metabolism of Hepatocyte-like Organoids and Their Applicability in In Vitro Toxicity Testing. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28020621. [PMID: 36677681 PMCID: PMC9867526 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28020621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging advances in the field of in vitro toxicity testing attempt to meet the need for reliable human-based safety assessment in drug development. Intrahepatic cholangiocyte organoids (ICOs) are described as a donor-derived in vitro model for disease modelling and regenerative medicine. Here, we explored the potential of hepatocyte-like ICOs (HL-ICOs) in in vitro toxicity testing by exploring the expression and activity of genes involved in drug metabolism, a key determinant in drug-induced toxicity, and the exposure of HL-ICOs to well-known hepatotoxicants. The current state of drug metabolism in HL-ICOs showed levels comparable to those of PHHs and HepaRGs for CYP3A4; however, other enzymes, such as CYP2B6 and CYP2D6, were expressed at lower levels. Additionally, EC50 values were determined in HL-ICOs for acetaminophen (24.0−26.8 mM), diclofenac (475.5−>500 µM), perhexiline (9.7−>31.5 µM), troglitazone (23.1−90.8 µM), and valproic acid (>10 mM). Exposure to the hepatotoxicants showed EC50s in HL-ICOs comparable to those in PHHs and HepaRGs; however, for acetaminophen exposure, HL-ICOs were less sensitive. Further elucidation of enzyme and transporter activity in drug metabolism in HL-ICOs and exposure to a more extensive compound set are needed to accurately define the potential of HL-ICOs in in vitro toxicity testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon C. Bouwmeester
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CT Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Yu Tao
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CT Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Susana Proença
- Division of Toxicology, Wageningen University, 6700 EA Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Frank G. van Steenbeek
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CT Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Division Heart & Lungs, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Roos-Anne Samsom
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CT Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sandra M. Nijmeijer
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Theo Sinnige
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Luc J. W. van der Laan
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 CN Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Juliette Legler
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Kerstin Schneeberger
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CT Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Nynke I. Kramer
- Division of Toxicology, Wageningen University, 6700 EA Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Bart Spee
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CT Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Correspondence:
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Lambert JC. Adverse Outcome Pathway 'Footprinting': A Novel Approach to the Integration of 21st Century Toxicology Information into Chemical Mixtures Risk Assessment. TOXICS 2022; 11:37. [PMID: 36668763 PMCID: PMC9860797 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11010037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
For over a decade, New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) such as structure-activity/read-across, -omics technologies, and Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP), have been considered within regulatory communities as alternative sources of chemical and biological information potentially relevant to human health risk assessment. Integration of NAMs into applications such as chemical mixtures risk assessment has been limited due to the lack of validation of qualitative and quantitative application to adverse health outcomes in vivo, and acceptance by risk assessors. However, leveraging existent hazard and dose-response information, including NAM-based data, for mixture component chemicals across one or more levels of biological organization using novel approaches such as AOP 'footprinting' proposed herein, may significantly advance mixtures risk assessment. AOP footprinting entails the systematic stepwise profiling and comparison of all known or suspected AOPs involved in a toxicological effect at the level of key event (KE). The goal is to identify key event(s) most proximal to an adverse outcome within each AOP suspected of contributing to a given health outcome at which similarity between mixture chemicals can be confidently determined. These key events are identified as the 'footprint' for a given AOP. This work presents the general concept, and a hypothetical example application, of AOP footprinting as a key methodology for the integration of NAM data into mixtures risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason C Lambert
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Cincinnati, OH 45268, USA
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Catozzi S, Hill R, Li X, Dulong S, Collard E, Ballesta A. Interspecies and in vitro-in vivo scaling for quantitative modeling of whole-body drug pharmacokinetics in patients: Application to the anticancer drug oxaliplatin. CPT Pharmacometrics Syst Pharmacol 2022; 12:221-235. [PMID: 36537068 PMCID: PMC9931436 DOI: 10.1002/psp4.12895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Quantitative systems pharmacology holds the promises of integrating results from laboratory animals or in vitro human systems into the design of human pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) models allowing for precision and personalized medicine. However, reliable and general in vitro-to-in vivo extrapolation and interspecies scaling methods are still lacking. Here, we developed a translational strategy for the anticancer drug oxaliplatin. Using ex vivo PK data in the whole blood of the mouse, rat, and human, a model representing the amount of platinum (Pt) in the plasma and in the red blood cells was designed and could faithfully fit each dataset independently. A "purely physiologically-based (PB)" scaling approach solely based on preclinical data failed to reproduce human observations, which were then included in the calibration. Investigating approaches in which one parameter was set as species-specific, whereas the others were computed by PB scaling laws, we concluded that allowing the Pt binding rate to plasma proteins to be species-specific permitted to closely fit all data, and guaranteed parameter identifiability. Such a strategy presenting the drawback of including all clinical datasets, we further identified a minimal subset of human data ensuring accurate model calibration. Next, a "whole body" model of oxaliplatin human PK was inferred from the ex vivo study. Its three remaining parameters were estimated, using one third of the available patient data. Remarkably, the model achieved a good fit to the training dataset and successfully reproduced the unseen observations. Such validation endorsed the legitimacy of our scaling methodology calling for its testing with other drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Catozzi
- Institut Curie, Inserm U900, MINES ParisTech, CBIO ‐ Centre for Computational BiologyPSL Research UniversitySaint‐CloudFrance
| | - Roger Hill
- EPSRC and MRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Mathematics for Real‐World SystemsUniversity of WarwickCoventryUK
| | - Xiao‐Mei Li
- UPR “Chronotherapy, Cancers and Transplantation,” Faculty of MedicineUniversité Paris‐SaclayVillejuifFrance
| | - Sandrine Dulong
- Institut Curie, Inserm U900, MINES ParisTech, CBIO ‐ Centre for Computational BiologyPSL Research UniversitySaint‐CloudFrance,UPR “Chronotherapy, Cancers and Transplantation,” Faculty of MedicineUniversité Paris‐SaclayVillejuifFrance
| | - Elodie Collard
- CEA, CNRS, NIMBEUniversité Paris‐SaclayGif‐sur‐YvetteFrance
| | - Annabelle Ballesta
- Institut Curie, Inserm U900, MINES ParisTech, CBIO ‐ Centre for Computational BiologyPSL Research UniversitySaint‐CloudFrance
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40
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Lee KM, Corley R, Jarabek AM, Kleinstreuer N, Paini A, Stucki AO, Bell S. Advancing New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) for Tobacco Harm Reduction: Synopsis from the 2021 CORESTA SSPT-NAMs Symposium. TOXICS 2022; 10:760. [PMID: 36548593 PMCID: PMC9781465 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10120760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
New approach methodologies (NAMs) are emerging chemical safety assessment tools consisting of in vitro and in silico (computational) methodologies intended to reduce, refine, or replace (3R) various in vivo animal testing methods traditionally used for risk assessment. Significant progress has been made toward the adoption of NAMs for human health and environmental toxicity assessment. However, additional efforts are needed to expand their development and their use in regulatory decision making. A virtual symposium was held during the 2021 Cooperation Centre for Scientific Research Relative to Tobacco (CORESTA) Smoke Science and Product Technology (SSPT) conference (titled "Advancing New Alternative Methods for Tobacco Harm Reduction"), with the goals of introducing the concepts and potential application of NAMs in the evaluation of potentially reduced-risk (PRR) tobacco products. At the symposium, experts from regulatory agencies, research organizations, and NGOs shared insights on the status of available tools, strengths, limitations, and opportunities in the application of NAMs using case examples from safety assessments of chemicals and tobacco products. Following seven presentations providing background and application of NAMs, a discussion was held where the presenters and audience discussed the outlook for extending the NAMs toxicological applications for tobacco products. The symposium, endorsed by the CORESTA In Vitro Tox Subgroup, Biomarker Subgroup, and NextG Tox Task Force, illustrated common ground and interest in science-based engagement across the scientific community and stakeholders in support of tobacco regulatory science. Highlights of the symposium are summarized in this paper.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Richard Corley
- Greek Creek Toxicokinetics Consulting, LLC, Boise, ID 83714, USA
| | - Annie M. Jarabek
- Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA
| | - Nicole Kleinstreuer
- National Toxicology Program Interagency Center for Evaluation of Alternative Toxicological Methods (NICEATM), Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA
| | - Alicia Paini
- European Commission Joint Research Center (EC JRC), 2749 Ispra, Italy
| | - Andreas O. Stucki
- PETA Science Consortium International e.V., 70499 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Shannon Bell
- Inotiv-RTP, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
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Ruiz P, Loizou G. Editorial: Application of computational tools to health and environmental sciences, Volume II. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1102431. [DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1102431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
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Wambaugh JF, Rager JE. Exposure forecasting - ExpoCast - for data-poor chemicals in commerce and the environment. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2022; 32:783-793. [PMID: 36347934 PMCID: PMC9742338 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-022-00492-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Estimates of exposure are critical to prioritize and assess chemicals based on risk posed to public health and the environment. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for regulating thousands of chemicals in commerce and the environment for which exposure data are limited. Since 2009 the EPA's ExpoCast ("Exposure Forecasting") project has sought to develop the data, tools, and evaluation approaches required to generate rapid and scientifically defensible exposure predictions for the full universe of existing and proposed commercial chemicals. This review article aims to summarize issues in exposure science that have been addressed through initiatives affiliated with ExpoCast. ExpoCast research has generally focused on chemical exposure as a statistical systems problem intended to inform thousands of chemicals. The project exists as a companion to EPA's ToxCast ("Toxicity Forecasting") project which has used in vitro high-throughput screening technologies to characterize potential hazard posed by thousands of chemicals for which there are limited toxicity data. Rapid prediction of chemical exposures and in vitro-in vivo extrapolation (IVIVE) of ToxCast data allow for prioritization based upon risk of adverse outcomes due to environmental chemical exposure. ExpoCast has developed (1) integrated modeling approaches to reliably predict exposure and IVIVE dose, (2) highly efficient screening tools for chemical prioritization, (3) efficient and affordable tools for generating new exposure and dose data, and (4) easily accessible exposure databases. The development of new exposure models and databases along with the application of technologies like non-targeted analysis and machine learning have transformed exposure science for data-poor chemicals. By developing high-throughput tools for chemical exposure analytics and translating those tools into public health decisions ExpoCast research has served as a crucible for identifying and addressing exposure science knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- John F Wambaugh
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Office of Research and Development, U.S. EPA, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
- Department of Environmental Sciences & Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Julia E Rager
- Department of Environmental Sciences & Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Abstract
There is a need for paradigm change in the methodology employed for toxicological testing and assessment. It could be said that this change is well on its way, through an evolutionary progress analogous to that of natural selection. Darwin's Theory of Evolution has defined the idea of evolution and descendancy since the last third of the 19th century. Increasingly, this concept of 'evolution' is being applied beyond the field of biology. This Comment article discusses the progress of toxicological testing in the context of 'evolutionary pressure' and deliberates how this process can help foster the development, implementation and acceptance of mechanistic and human-relevant methods in this field. By comparing the current regulatory landscape in toxicity testing and assessment to specific elements in Charles Darwin's evolutionary theory, we aim to better understand the needs and requirements for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Landsiedel
- 5184BASF SE, Experimental Toxicology and Ecology, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany
- Free University of Berlin, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Barbara Birk
- 5184BASF SE, Experimental Toxicology and Ecology, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany
| | - Dorothee Funk-Weyer
- 5184BASF SE, Experimental Toxicology and Ecology, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany
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