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Gajski G, Kašuba V, Milić M, Gerić M, Matković K, Delić L, Nikolić M, Pavičić M, Rozgaj R, Garaj-Vrhovac V, Kopjar N. Exploring cytokinesis block micronucleus assay in Croatia: A journey through the past, present, and future in biomonitoring of the general population. Mutat Res Genet Toxicol Environ Mutagen 2024; 895:503749. [PMID: 38575251 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2024.503749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we used the cytokinesis-block micronucleus (CBMN) assay to evaluate the background frequency of cytogenetic damage in peripheral blood lymphocytes of the general population concerning different anthropometric data and lifestyle factors. The background frequency of CBMN assay parameters was analysed in 850 healthy, occupationally non-exposed male and female subjects (average age, 38±11 years) gathered from the general Croatian population from 2000 to 2023. The mean background values for micronuclei (MNi) in the whole population were 5.3±4.3 per 1000 binucleated cells, while the mean frequency of nucleoplasmic bridges (NPBs) was 0.7±1.3 and of nuclear buds (NBUDs) 3.1±3.2. The cut-off value, which corresponds to the 95th percentile of the distribution of 850 individual values, was 14 MNi, 3 NPBs, and 9 NBUDs. Results from our database also showed an association of the tested genomic instability parameters with age and sex but also with other lifestyle factors. These findings underscore the importance of considering several anthropometric and lifestyle factors when conducting biomonitoring studies. Overall, the normal and cut-off values attained here present normal values for the general population that can later serve as baseline values for further human biomonitoring studies either in Croatia or worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Gajski
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Division of Toxicology, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Vilena Kašuba
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Division of Toxicology, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mirta Milić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Division of Toxicology, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marko Gerić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Division of Toxicology, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Katarina Matković
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Division of Toxicology, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Luka Delić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Division of Toxicology, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Maja Nikolić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Division of Toxicology, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Martina Pavičić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Division of Toxicology, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ružica Rozgaj
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Division of Toxicology, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Division of Toxicology, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nevenka Kopjar
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Division of Toxicology, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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Novak M, Baebler Š, Žegura B, Rotter A, Gajski G, Gerić M, Garaj-Vrhovac V, Bakos K, Csenki Z, Kovács R, Horváth Á, Gazsi G, Filipič M. Deregulation of whole-transcriptome gene expression in zebrafish (Danio rerio) after chronic exposure to low doses of imatinib mesylate in a complete life cycle study. Chemosphere 2021; 263:128097. [PMID: 33297093 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Imatinib mesylate (IM) is an anticancer drug that belongs to tyrosine kinase inhibitors. We report the results of the first investigation of the chronic exposure of zebrafish (Danio rerio) to IM. The exposure to IM (0.01, 1 and 100 μg/L) was initiated in adult fish and continued through hatching and the offspring generation for seven months. In addition to standard toxicological endpoints, induction of genotoxic effects and whole-genome transcriptome of liver samples of offspring generation of zebrafish were analysed. Exposure to IM did not affect the survival and growth of zebrafish, did not cause any histopathological changes, but it induced a marginal increase in the chromosomal damage in blood cells. The whole-genome transcriptome analyses demonstrated dose-dependent increase in the number of differentially expressed genes with a significantly higher number of deregulated genes in female fish compared to male. Differentially expressed genes included genes involved in response to DNA damage, cell cycle control and regulation of circadian rhythm. Based on the low genotoxic activity and the pattern of the changes in DNA damage responsive genes we consider that at current environmental exposure levels, IM represents low risk for genotoxic effects in aquatic organisms. Exposure to IM also induced deregulation of the expression of genes associated with steroidogenesis and hormone metabolism and function, which indicates hormone-disrupting activity of IM that has not been studied so far. The study provide new information on the potential consequences of chronic exposure to the residues of tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which remain to be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matjaž Novak
- National Institute of Biology, Večna Pot 111, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Špela Baebler
- National Institute of Biology, Večna Pot 111, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Bojana Žegura
- National Institute of Biology, Večna Pot 111, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Ana Rotter
- National Institute of Biology, Večna Pot 111, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Goran Gajski
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, Ksaverska Cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marko Gerić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, Ksaverska Cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, Ksaverska Cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Katalin Bakos
- Department of Aquaculture, Institute for Conservation of Natural Resources, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Szent István University, 1. Pater Károly U, H-2100, Gödöllo, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Csenki
- Department of Aquaculture, Institute for Conservation of Natural Resources, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Szent István University, 1. Pater Károly U, H-2100, Gödöllo, Hungary
| | - Róbert Kovács
- Department of Aquaculture, Institute for Conservation of Natural Resources, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Szent István University, 1. Pater Károly U, H-2100, Gödöllo, Hungary
| | - Ákos Horváth
- Department of Aquaculture, Institute for Conservation of Natural Resources, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Szent István University, 1. Pater Károly U, H-2100, Gödöllo, Hungary
| | - Gyöngyi Gazsi
- Department of Aquaculture, Institute for Conservation of Natural Resources, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Szent István University, 1. Pater Károly U, H-2100, Gödöllo, Hungary
| | - Metka Filipič
- National Institute of Biology, Večna Pot 111, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Vučić Lovrenčić M, Gerić M, Košuta I, Dragičević M, Garaj-Vrhovac V, Gajski G. Sex-specific effects of vegetarian diet on adiponectin levels and insulin sensitivity in healthy non-obese individuals. Nutrition 2020; 79-80:110862. [PMID: 32711387 DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2020.110862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The beneficial influence of a vegetarian diet in reducing the risk for metabolic syndrome has been demonstrated. However, adiponectin production and secretion are scarcely studied in vegetarians, despite their important role in recovering metabolic homeostasis by reducing visceral obesity, inflammation, and insulin resistance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a vegetarian diet on serum adiponectin levels and its association with the established biomarkers of insulin sensitivity and inflammation in healthy, non-obese individuals. METHODS Adiponectin, C-reactive protein, uric acid, glucose, insulin, lymphocyte and polymorphonuclear cell counts were determined in the blood of sex- and age-matched healthy vegetarian (n = 40) and omnivore (n = 36) individuals. The homeostatic model assessment (HOMA-2) calculator was used for the β-cell function (HOMA2-%B) and insulin resistance index (HOMA2-IRI) estimation. RESULTS Adiponectin levels were significantly higher in female vegetarians than the respective omnivore controls (P = 0.03), whereas no dietary-associated difference was observed in men. HOMA2-%B was significantly higher in vegetarians than in omnivore controls (P = 0.04), whereas no diet-dependent differences were found in insulin, HOMA2-IRI, inflammatory, and metabolic biomarkers. Multiple regression analysis showed that adiponectin levels were significantly predicted by the type of diet only in women (P = 0.042), whereas no associations were found in men. CONCLUSIONS A vegetarian diet resulted in improved β-cell function. Favorable adiponectin and insulin sensitivity responses in women reveal a distinct effect of diet-to-metabolic homeostasis, indicating an interesting pattern of sexual dimorphism regarding the beneficial metabolic effect of a vegetarian diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marijana Vučić Lovrenčić
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Merkur University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marko Gerić
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Iva Košuta
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Maro Dragičević
- Department of Internal Medicine, Merkur University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Goran Gajski
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia.
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Gajski G, Gerić M, Domijan AM, Golubović I, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Evaluation of oxidative stress responses in human circulating blood cells after imatinib mesylate treatment - Implications to its mechanism of action. Saudi Pharm J 2019; 27:1216-1221. [PMID: 31885482 PMCID: PMC6921178 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2019.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Imatinib mesylate (IM) is the first developed protein kinase inhibitor and recently it has topped consumption rates among targeted and total anticancer drugs. Although there are indications that IM possesses cyto/genotoxic activities against normal non-target cells as well, there is a lack of information regarding the underlying mechanism involved in those actions. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the response of human circulating blood cells towards oxidative stress after IM treatment (0.0001–10 µg/mL) in vitro. Based on the results, IM had an influence on all of the oxidative stress parameters tested. Lower concentrations of IM induced an increase of glutathione level, following its decrease at higher IM concentrations indicating impairment in oxidative stress defences. Concomitant to a glutathione decrease, an increase of malondialdehyde and protein carbonyls level was observed indicating oxidative damage of lipids and proteins. The observed effects overlapped with the observed formation of oxidative base damage detected by formamidopyrimidine-DNA glycosylase modified-comet assay indicating that IM managed to induce oxidative DNA damage. Our results provide novelty in their mechanistic approach to IM-induced toxicity in non-target cells and suggest that IM can affect blood cells and induce oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Gajski
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Corresponding author at: Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Marko Gerić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana-Marija Domijan
- University of Zagreb, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivana Golubović
- University of Zagreb, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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Gerić M, Gajski G, Mihaljević B, Miljanić S, Domijan AM, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Radioprotective properties of food colorant sodium copper chlorophyllin on human peripheral blood cells in vitro. Mutat Res Genet Toxicol Environ Mutagen 2019; 845:403027. [PMID: 31561900 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2019.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Revised: 12/31/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Sodium copper chlorophyllin (CHL) is a food colorant that exhibits many beneficial properties, including potential for use in radiotherapy. Nevertheless, genotoxicity studies investigating radioprotective properties against γ-radiation on human cells are rather scarce. The aim of this study was to assess the cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and induction of malondialdehyde formation on CHL pre-treated whole blood cells after an absorbed dose of 5 Gy γ-radiation. Irradiated whole blood cells pre-treated with 100, 500, and 1000 μg/mL CHL showed less DNA-strand breaks (10.92 ± 0.74%, 10.69 ± 0.68%, and 8.81 ± 0.69%, respectively) than untreated irradiated cells (12.58 ± 0.88%). At the same time, the level of malondialdehyde was lower in CHL pre-treated samples with 100, 500, and 1000 μg/mL CHL (14.11 ± 0.43, 16.35 ± 2.82, and 13.08 ± 1.03 μmol/L, respectively) compared to untreated irradiated samples (24.11 ± 0.25 μmol/L). Regarding cytotoxicity, no changes were observed in the samples tested. Another important finding is that CHL had no cyto/genotoxic properties toward human blood cells. Taken together, since CHL had no cyto/genotoxic effects and showed good radioprotective properties in human blood cells, further studies should be conducted in order to find its possible application in radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marko Gerić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Goran Gajski
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Saveta Miljanić
- Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana-Marija Domijan
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, A. Kovačića 1, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, Zagreb, Croatia.
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Gerić M, Gajski G, Domijan AM, Garaj-Vrhovac V, Filipič M, Žegura B. Genotoxic effects of neurotoxin ß-N-methylamino-l-alanine in human peripheral blood cells. Chemosphere 2019; 214:623-632. [PMID: 30290362 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.09.155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The non-proteinogenic amino acid ß-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) is associated with the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/parkinsonism-dementia complex (ALS-PDC) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. BMAA is known to induce neurotoxic effects leading to neurodegeneration via multiple mechanisms including misfolded protein accumulation, glutamate induced excitotoxicity, calcium dyshomeostasis, endoplasmic reticulum stress and oxidative stress. In the present study, for the first time, genotoxic activity of BMAA (2.5, 5, 10 and 20 μg/mL) was studied in human peripheral blood cells (HPBCs) using the comet and cytokinesis-block micronucleus cytome assays. In addition, the influence of BMAA on the oxidative stress was assessed. At non-cytotoxic concentrations BMAA did not induce formation of DNA strand breaks in HPBCs after 4 and 24 h exposure; however, it significantly increased the number of micronuclei after 24 and 48 h at 20 μg/mL and nucleoplasmic bridges after 48 h at 20 μg/mL. The frequency of nuclear buds was slightly though non-significantly increased after 48 h. Altogether, this indicates that in HPBCs BMAA is clastogenic and induces complex genomic alterations including structural chromosomal rearrangements and gene amplification. No influence on oxidative stress markers was noticed. These findings provide new evidence that environmental neurotoxin BMAA, in addition to targeting common pathways involved in neurodegeneration, can also induce genomic instability in non-target HPBCs suggesting that it might be involved in cancer development. Therefore, these data are important in advancing our current knowledge and opening new questions in the understanding of the mechanisms of BMAA toxicity, particularly in the context of genotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marko Gerić
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Goran Gajski
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Ana-Marija Domijan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Metka Filipič
- Department for Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, National Institute of Biology, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Bojana Žegura
- Department for Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, National Institute of Biology, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Gerić M, Popić J, Gajski G, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Cytogenetic status of interventional radiology unit workers occupationally exposed to low-dose ionising radiation: A pilot study. Mutat Res Genet Toxicol Environ Mutagen 2018; 843:46-51. [PMID: 31421738 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2018.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Revised: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Interventional radiology unit workers represent one of the occupationally most exposed populations to low-dose ionizing radiation. Since there are many uncertainties in research of doses below 100 mSv, this study attempted to evaluate DNA damage levels in chronically exposed personnel. The study group consisted of 24 subjects matched with a control population by the number of participants, age, gender ratio, active smoking status, the period of blood sampling, and residence. Based on regular dosimetry using thermoluminiscent dosimeters, our study group occupationally received a dose of 1.82 ± 3.60 mSv over the last year. The results of the cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay and the comet assay showed a higher nuclear buds frequency (4.09 ± 1.88) and tail length (15.46 ± 1.47 μm) than in the control group (2.96 ± 1.67, 14.05 ± 1.36 μm, respectively). Differences in other descriptors from both tests did not reach statistical significance. Further investigations are needed to develop algorithms for improving personal dosimetry and those that would engage larger biomonitoring study groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marko Gerić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Jelena Popić
- University of Zagreb, School of Medicine, Clinical Hospital Merkur, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Goran Gajski
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, Zagreb, Croatia.
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Kopjar N, Garaj-Vrhovac V, Milas I. Acute Cytogenetic Effects of Antineoplastic Drugs on Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes in Cancer Patients Chromosome Aberrations and Micronuclei. Tumori 2018; 88:300-12. [PMID: 12400982 DOI: 10.1177/030089160208800412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Aims and Background The aim of the present study was to evaluate the individual sensitivity of cancer patients to different antineoplastic drugs administered in standard protocols by assessing their acute cytogenetic effects on peripheral blood lymphocytes. Methods and Study Design In 12 patients undergoing cancer chemotherapy, acute cytogenetic effects on peripheral blood lymphocytes were evaluated by analysis of structural chromosome aberrations and micronuclei. All patients were given antineoplastic drugs, mainly as polychemotherapy. The frequencies of both cytogenetic biomarkers determined after the first chemotherapy cycle were compared with their pre-treatment (baseline) values. Results All chemotherapy protocols employed induced clear cytogenetic effects in both tests studied. The results obtained indicate interindividual variations between cytogenetic damage in peripheral blood lymphocytes among cancer patients. Statistically significant increases in the total number of structural chromosome aberrations and micronuclei in lymphocytes analyzed after chemotherapy compared to pre-therapy samples were observed in almost all patients studied. The highest level of chromosome damage as well as the highest incidence of micronuclei was observed following administration of the ACOP protocol (adriamycin, cyclophosphamide and vincristine). The proportions of signal-positive and signal-negative micronuclei were evaluated using DAPI staining, while silver staining revealed Ag-NOR+ and Ag-NOR− micronuclei. In some patients the incidence of signal-positive and Ag-NOR+ micronuclei after treatment was increased, indicating a more pronounced susceptibility of particular chromosomes to damage caused by antineoplastic drugs. Conclusions With regard to the results obtained we may conclude that both parameters used in the present study on peripheral lymphocytes are sensitive biomarkers and can be successfully employed for biomonitoring of acute cytogenetic effects induced by antineoplastic drugs in standard clinical protocols for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nevenka Kopjar
- Laboratory of Mutagenesis, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia.
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Vrhovac Madunić I, Madunić J, Antunović M, Paradžik M, Garaj-Vrhovac V, Breljak D, Marijanović I, Gajski G. Apigenin, a dietary flavonoid, induces apoptosis, DNA damage, and oxidative stress in human breast cancer MCF-7 and MDA MB-231 cells. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2018. [PMID: 29541820 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-018-1486-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Apigenin is found in several dietary plant foods such as vegetables and fruits. To investigate potential anticancer properties of apigenin on human breast cancer, ER-positive MCF-7 and triple-negative MDA MB-231 cells were used. Moreover, toxicological safety of apigenin towards normal cells was evaluated in human lymphocytes. Cytotoxicity of apigenin towards cancer cells was evaluated by MTT assay whereas further genotoxic and oxidative stress parameters were measured by comet and lipid peroxidation assays, respectively. In order to examine the type of cell death induced by apigenin, several biomarkers were used. Toxicological safety towards normal cells was evaluated by cell viability and comet assays. After the treatment with apigenin, we observed changes in cell morphology in a dose- (10 to 100 μM) and time-dependent manner. Moreover, apigenin caused cell death in both cell lines leading to significant toxicity and dominantly to apoptosis. Furthermore, apigenin proved to be genotoxic towards the selected cancer cells with a potential to induce oxidative damage to lipids. Of great importance is that no significant cytogenotoxic effects were detected in normal cells. The observed cytogenotoxic and pro-cell death activities of apigenin coupled with its low toxicity towards normal cells indicate that this natural product could be used as a future anticancer modality. Therefore, further analysis to determine the exact mechanism of action and in vivo studies on animal models are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Vrhovac Madunić
- Molecular Toxicology Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Josip Madunić
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Horvatovac 102a/2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Maja Antunović
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Horvatovac 102a/2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mladen Paradžik
- Laboratory for Cell Biology and Signalling, Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Davorka Breljak
- Molecular Toxicology Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Inga Marijanović
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Horvatovac 102a/2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Goran Gajski
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia.
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Gajski G, Ladeira C, Gerić M, Garaj-Vrhovac V, Viegas S. Genotoxicity assessment of a selected cytostatic drug mixture in human lymphocytes: A study based on concentrations relevant for occupational exposure. Environ Res 2018; 161:26-34. [PMID: 29100207 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2017.10.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Revised: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Cytostatic drugs are highly cytotoxic agents used in cancer treatment and although their benefit is unquestionable, they have been recognized as hazardous to healthcare professionals in occupational settings. In a working environment, simultaneous exposure to cytostatics may occur creating a higher risk than that of a single substance. Hence, the present study evaluated the combined cyto/genotoxicity of a mixture of selected cytostatics with different mechanisms of action (MoA; 5-fluorouracil, cyclophosphamide and paclitaxel) towards human lymphocytes in vitro at a concentration range relevant for occupational as well as environmental exposure. The results suggest that the selected cytostatic drug mixture is potentially cyto/genotoxic and that it can induce cell and genome damage even at low concentrations. This indicates not only that such mixture may pose a risk to cell and genome integrity, but also that single compound toxicity data are not sufficient for the prediction of toxicity in a complex working environment. The presence of drugs in different amounts and with different MoA suggests the need to study the relationship between the presence of genotoxic components in the mixture and the resulting effects, taking into account the MoA of each component by itself. Therefore, this study provides new data sets necessary for scientifically-based risk assessments of cytostatic drug mixtures in occupational as well as environmental settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Gajski
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Carina Ladeira
- Grupo de Investigação em Ambiente e Saúde, Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal; Grupo de Investigação em Genética e Metabolismo, Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Marko Gerić
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Susana Viegas
- Grupo de Investigação em Ambiente e Saúde, Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal; Centro de Investigação em Saúde Pública, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
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Gajski G, Gerić M, Oreščanin V, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Cytokinesis-block micronucleus cytome assay parameters in peripheral blood lymphocytes of the general population: Contribution of age, sex, seasonal variations and lifestyle factors. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2018; 148:561-570. [PMID: 29127818 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2017.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The cytokinesis-block micronucleus cytome (CBMN Cyt) assay was used to evaluate the baseline frequency of cytogenetic damage in peripheral blood lymphocytes of the general population (average age, 38.28 ± 12.83 years) in relation to age, sex, body mass index, seasonal variations (season of sampling, period of sampling and different meteorological parameters) and lifestyle factors (smoking habit, alcohol consumption, exposure to medications and diagnostic radiation, physical activity, and family history of cancer). The background frequency of micronuclei (MNi) for the 200 subjects assayed was 5.06 ± 3.11 per 1000 binucleated cells, while the mean frequency of nucleoplasmic bridges (NPBs) was 1.21 ± 1.46 and of nuclear buds (NBUDs) 3.48 ± 2.14. The background frequency of apoptosis and necrosis was 1.58 ± 1.50 and 1.39 ± 1.56, respectively, while the mean nuclear division index (NDI) was 1.99 ± 0.14. The cut-off value, which corresponds to the 95th percentile of the distribution of 200 individual values, was 11 MNi, 4 NPBs and 7 NBUDs. The study also confirmed an association of the above mentioned parameters with age, sex and several lifestyle factors. Moreover, significant confounders based on our results are also sampling season, sampling period and different meteorological parameters that were dependent on the CBMN Cyt assay parameters. In line with the above mentioned, several factors should be taken into account when it comes to the monitoring of exposed populations using cytogenetic biomarkers. Moreover, the normal and cut-off values obtained in this study present background data for the general population, and can later serve as baseline values for further biomonitoring studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Gajski
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Marko Gerić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | | | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
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Madunić J, Madunić IV, Gajski G, Popić J, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Apigenin: A dietary flavonoid with diverse anticancer properties. Cancer Lett 2018; 413:11-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2017.10.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2017] [Revised: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Vidacek NŠ, Nanic L, Ravlic S, Sopta M, Geric M, Gajski G, Garaj-Vrhovac V, Rubelj I. Telomeres, Nutrition, and Longevity: Can We Really Navigate Our Aging? J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2017; 73:39-47. [PMID: 28510637 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glx082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are dynamic chromosome-end structures that serve as guardians of genome stability. They are known to be one of the major determinants of aging and longevity in higher mammals. Studies have demonstrated a direct correlation between telomere length and life expectancy, stress, DNA damage, and onset of aging-related diseases. This review discusses the most important factors that influence our telomeres. Various genetic and environmental factors such as diet, physical activity, obesity, and stress are known to influence health and longevity as well as telomere dynamics. Individuals currently have the opportunity to modulate the dynamics of their aging and health span, monitor these processes, and even make future projections by following their telomere dynamics. As telomeres react to positive as well as negative health factors, we should be able to directly influence our telomere metabolism, slow their deterioration, and diminish our aging and perhaps extend our life and health span.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucia Nanic
- Department of Molecular Biology, Ruder Boškovic Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Sanda Ravlic
- Department of Molecular Biology, Ruder Boškovic Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mary Sopta
- Department of Molecular Biology, Ruder Boškovic Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marko Geric
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Goran Gajski
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivica Rubelj
- Department of Molecular Biology, Ruder Boškovic Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
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Gerić M, Gajski G, Oreščanin V, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Seasonal variations as predictive factors of the comet assay parameters: a retrospective study. Mutagenesis 2017; 33:53-60. [DOI: 10.1093/mutage/gex023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Marko Gerić
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Goran Gajski
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
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Gajshi G, Madunić J, Madunić IV, Čimbora-Zovko T, Rak S, Breljak D, Osmak M, Garaj-Vrhovac V. ID: 1040 Anticancer effects of natural products from animal and plant origin. Biomed Res Ther 2017. [DOI: 10.15419/bmrat.v4is.316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
For last couple of decades, natural products have served us well in combating different types of cancer. The main sources of these useful compounds are from both animal and plant origin. Here we will present anticancer ability of bee venom (BV) and apigenin (API) towards different types of cancer cells in vitro. BV from honey bees is a complex mixture of a variety of different active peptides while API is a natural flavonoid found in several dietary plant foods. Anticancer effect of whole BV was tested in human cervical carcinoma HeLa cells and their drug-resistant HeLa CK subline while anticancer effect of API was tested in human breast cancer MCF-7 and MDA MB-231 cells. Cytotoxicity of both compounds towards cancer cells was evaluated by MTT assay whereas type of cell death was analysed by differential staining using acridine orange/ethidium bromide and was further verified by Western blot analysis. BV displayed dose-dependent cytotoxicity against both cell lines tested with drug-resistant HeLa CK cells being more sensitive to BV than their parental cell lines. Similarly, API inhibited the growth of both cell lines in a dose-dependent manner with MCF-7 cells being more sensitive. Treatment with BV induced a necrotic type of cell death, as shown by characteristic morphological features, fast staining with ethidium bromide and a lack of cleavage of apoptotic marker poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) on Western blot. On the contrary, cell treated with API showed apoptosis as a dominant type of cell death in both cell lines which was further verified by Western blot analysis detecting cleaved PARP. In view of accumulating evidence on anti-proliferative and pro-cell death activity, both tested compounds could be used in the development of future anticancer drugs. Undoubtedly, therapeutic applications of BV and API are promising, however further in vitro and in vivo studies are warranted to resolve precise mechanisms responsible for their anticancer properties
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Gerić M, Janušić R, Šarčević B, Garaj-Vrhovac V. ID: 1034 Potential cancer predictive biomarkers: a case of papillary thyroid cancer. Biomed Res Ther 2017. [DOI: 10.15419/bmrat.v4is.310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Thyroid cancer represents 2.1% of new cancer cases, yet it is the most common endocrine cancer and one of the fastest growing cancer types in the world. The incidence of thyroid cancer is the highest in elderly population (60-69 years), but novel data suggest decline in age when this cancer is frequently diagnosed to 50-59 years. Thyroid cancer is 2-4-fold more common in female population what is usually associated with female hormones and the differences in oxidative stress levels. Since the WHO suggest that roughly 30% of cancer can be prevented, the aim of this study was to evaluate the role of micronucleus test and comet assay as cancer predictive biomarkers.
In this study, 36 patients with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) were recruited in accordance with all ethical standards. The average age of the group was 52±14 years, 28:8 female:male ratio, and 33% of active smokers. Control group was matched for age, gender, and smoking habits (52±14 years, 28:8 female:male ratio, and 33% of active smokers).
The number of micronucleated (MNed) cells in human peripheral blood lymphocytes was significantly higher (p<0.05) in PTC group (12.94±5.81) compared to control group (4.36±2.58). Additionally, the comet assay tail moment (TM) was also significantly (p<0.05) higher in the PTC group compared to control group (0.39±0.71 vs 0.14±0.05). These results indicate that people with PTC had more genome damage compared to healthy controls. The immunohistochemical analysis of thyroid revealed 97.2% BRAF positive and 20.6% RET/PTC positive samples.
Taken together, the PTC group had more DNA damage what is associated with high prevalence of BRAF mutations and RET/PTC translocations as a consequence of disrupted genome integrity. The results imply that cytogenetic tools might be used in human biomonitoring for identification of high-risk groups but further research is needed to assess normal and cut-off values.
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Gerić M, Gajski G, Oreščanin V, Domijan AM, Kollar R, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Environmental risk assessment of wastewaters from printed circuit board production: A multibiomarker approach using human cells. Chemosphere 2017; 168:1075-1081. [PMID: 27829507 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.10.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Revised: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Since the production of printed circuit boards (PCBs) generates wastewater contaminated with heavy metals and organic matter, PCB factories represent potential pollution sites. The wastewater toxicologically tested in this study contained several metals and the most abundant were copper and iron. At two exposure times tested (4 and 24 h) PCB wastewater (PCBW) proved to be cytotoxic (decreased cell viability) and genotoxic (increased comet assay tail intensity and tail moment) to human blood peripheral lymphocytes in vitro, and the oxidative stress parameter (malondialdehyde concentration) was also found to be higher. After application of combined treatment by waste base, ozone and waste sludge methods, concentrations of metals in purified PCBW were below the upper permitted levels and all tested toxicological parameters did not differ compared to the negative control. Taken together, similar methods could be implemented in PCB factories before discharging potentially toxic wastewater into the environment because purified PCBW does not represent a threat from the aspect of cytotoxicity and genotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marko Gerić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Goran Gajski
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Ana-Marija Domijan
- University of Zagreb, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia.
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Gajski G, Gerić M, Domijan AM, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Combined cyto/genotoxic activity of a selected antineoplastic drug mixture in human circulating blood cells. Chemosphere 2016; 165:529-538. [PMID: 27681109 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.09.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Revised: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Antineoplastic drugs are highly cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents that can often interfere directly or indirectly with the cell's genome. In an environmental or medical setting simultaneous exposure may occur. Such multiple exposures may pose a higher risk than it could be assumed from the studies evaluating the effect of a single substance. Therefore, in the present study we tested the combined cyto/genotoxicity of a mixture of selected antineoplastic drugs with different mechanisms of action (5-fluorouracil, etoposide, and imatinib mesylate) towards human lymphocytes in vitro. The results suggest that the selected antineoplastic drug mixture is potentially cyto/genotoxic and that it can induce cell and genome damage even at low concentrations. Moreover, the changes in the measured oxidative stress parameters suggest the participation of reactive oxygen species in the cyto/genotoxicity of the selected mixture. The obtained results indicate not only that such mixtures may pose a risk to cell and genome integrity, but also that single compound toxicity data are not sufficient for the predicting toxicity in a complex environment. Altogether, the results emphasise the need for further toxicological screening of antineoplastic drug mixtures, especially at low environmentally relevant concentrations, as to avoid any possible adverse effects on the environment and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Gajski
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Marko Gerić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Ana-Marija Domijan
- University of Zagreb, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, A. Kovačića 1, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
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19
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Gerić M, Domijan AM, Gluščić V, Janušić R, Šarčević B, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Cytogenetic status and oxidative stress parameters in patients with thyroid diseases. Mutation Research/Genetic Toxicology and Environmental Mutagenesis 2016; 810:22-29. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2016.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2016] [Revised: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Gajski G, Čimbora-Zovko T, Rak S, Osmak M, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Antitumour action on human glioblastoma A1235 cells through cooperation of bee venom and cisplatin. Cytotechnology 2016; 68:1197-205. [PMID: 25916941 PMCID: PMC4960167 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-015-9879-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Accepted: 04/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cisplatin (cDDP) is one of the most widely used anticancer-drugs in both therapy and research. However, cDDP-resistance is the greatest obstacle for the successful treatment of cancer patients. In the present study, the possible joint anticancer effect of bee venom (BV), as a natural toxin, and cDDP towards human glioblastoma A1235 cells was evaluated. Treatment with BV alone in concentrations of 2.5-30 μg/ml displayed dose-dependent cytotoxicity towards A1235 cells, as evaluated with different cytotoxicity assays (MTT, Cristal violet and Trypan blue exclusion assay), with an IC50 value of 22.57 μg/ml based on the MTT results. Furthermore, BV treatment induced necrosis, which was confirmed by typical morphological features and fast staining with ethidium-bromide dye. Pre-treatment with BV induced cell sensitization to cDDP, indicating that BV could improve the killing effect of selected cells when combined with cDDP. The isobologram method used to determine the extent of synergism in combining two agents to examine their possible therapeutic effect showed that combined treatment induced an additive and/or synergistic effect towards selected cells depending on the concentration of both. Hence, a greater anticancer effect could be triggered if BV was used in the course of chemotherapy. The obtained results indicate that joint treatment with BV could be useful from the point of minimizing the cDDP concentration during chemotherapy, thus reducing and/or postponing the development of drug resistance. Our data, in accordance with previously reported results, suggests that BV could be used in the development of a new strategy for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Gajski
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tamara Čimbora-Zovko
- Laboratory for Genotoxic Agents, Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Sanjica Rak
- Laboratory for Genotoxic Agents, Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Maja Osmak
- Laboratory for Genotoxic Agents, Division of Molecular Biology, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Bijenička cesta 54, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia.
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Gajski G, Gerić M, Žegura B, Novak M, Nunić J, Bajrektarević D, Garaj-Vrhovac V, Filipič M. Genotoxic potential of selected cytostatic drugs in human and zebrafish cells. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2016; 23:14739-14750. [PMID: 25943512 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-4592-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2015] [Accepted: 04/22/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Due to their increasing use, the residues of anti-neoplastic drugs have become emerging pollutants in aquatic environments. Most of them directly or indirectly interfere with the cell's genome, which classifies them into a group of particularly dangerous compounds. The aim of the present study was to conduct a comparative in vitro toxicological characterisation of three commonly used cytostatics with different mechanisms of action (5-fluorouracil [5-FU], cisplatin [CDDP] and etoposide [ET]) towards zebrafish liver (ZFL) cell line, human hepatoma (HepG2) cells and human peripheral blood lymphocytes (HPBLs). Cytotoxicity was determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and acridine orange/ethidium bromide staining. All three drugs induced time- and dose-dependent decreases in cell viability. The sensitivity of ZFL and HepG2 cells towards the cytotoxicity of 5-FU was comparable (half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) 5.3 to 10.4 μg/mL). ZFL cells were more sensitive towards ET- (IC50 0.4 μg/mL) and HepG2 towards CDDP- (IC50 1.4 μg/mL) induced cytotoxicity. Genotoxicity was determined by comet assay and cytokinesis block micronucleus (CBMN) assay. ZFL cells were the most sensitive, and HPBLs were the least sensitive. In ZFL cells, induction of DNA strand breaks was a more sensitive genotoxicity endpoint than micronuclei (MNi) induction; the lowest effective concentration (LOEC) for DNA strand break induction was 0.001 μg/mL for ET, 0.01 μg/mL for 5-FU and 0.1 μg/mL for CDDP. In HepG2 cells, MNi induction was a more sensitive genotoxicity endpoint. The LOEC values were 0.01 μg/mL for ET, 0.1 μg/mL for 5-FU and 1 μg/mL for CDDP. The higher sensitivity of ZFL cells to cytostatic drugs raises the question of the impact of such compounds in aquatic ecosystem. Since little is known on the effect of such drugs on aquatic organisms, our results demonstrate that ZFL cells provide a relevant and sensitive tool to screen genotoxic potential of environmental pollutant in the frame of hazard assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Gajski
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marko Gerić
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Bojana Žegura
- Department of Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Matjaž Novak
- Department of Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Ecological Engineering Institute, Ljubljanska ulica 9, 2000, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Jana Nunić
- Department of Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Džejla Bajrektarević
- Department of Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Metka Filipič
- Department of Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Oršolić N, Karač I, Sirovina D, Kukolj M, Kunštić M, Gajski G, Garaj-Vrhovac V, Štajcar D. Chemotherapeutic potential of quercetin on human bladder cancer cells. J Environ Sci Health A Tox Hazard Subst Environ Eng 2016; 51:776-781. [PMID: 27149655 DOI: 10.1080/10934529.2016.1170465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
In an effort to improve local bladder cancer control, we investigated the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of quercetin on human bladder cancer T24 cells. The cytotoxic effect of quercetin against T24 cells was examined by MTT test, clonogenic assay as well as DNA damaging effect by comet assay. In addition, the cytotoxic effect of quercetin on the primary culture of papillary urothelial carcinoma (PUC), histopathological stage T1 of low- or high-grade tumours, was investigated. Our analysis demonstrated a high correlation between reduced number of colony and cell viability and an increase in DNA damage of T24 cells incubated with quercetin at doses of 1 and 50 µM during short term incubation (2 h). At all exposure times (24, 48 and 72 h), the efficacy of quercetin, administered at a 10× higher dose compared to T24 cells, was statistically significant (P < 0.05) for the primary culture of PUC. In conclusion, our study suggests that quercetin could inhibit cell proliferation and colony formation of human bladder cancer cells by inducing DNA damage and that quercetin may be an effective chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agent for papillary urothelial bladder cancer after transurethral resection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nada Oršolić
- a Department of Animal Physiology , Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb , Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Ivo Karač
- a Department of Animal Physiology , Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb , Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Damir Sirovina
- a Department of Animal Physiology , Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb , Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Marina Kukolj
- a Department of Animal Physiology , Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb , Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Martina Kunštić
- a Department of Animal Physiology , Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb , Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Goran Gajski
- b Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health , Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- b Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health , Zagreb , Croatia
| | - Damir Štajcar
- c Urology Department , General Hospital Varaždin, Varaždin , Croatia
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Tariba B, Živković T, Gajski G, Gerić M, Gluščić V, Garaj-Vrhovac V, Peraica M, Pizent A. In vitro effects of simultaneous exposure to platinum and cadmium on the activity of antioxidant enzymes and DNA damage and potential protective effects of selenium and zinc. Drug Chem Toxicol 2016; 40:228-234. [DOI: 10.1080/01480545.2016.1199564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Valentina Gluščić
- Unit of Toxicology, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Maja Peraica
- Unit of Toxicology, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Alica Pizent
- Analytical Toxicology and Mineral Metabolism Unit,
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Radić S, Crnojević H, Vujčić V, Gajski G, Gerić M, Cvetković Ž, Petra C, Garaj-Vrhovac V, Oreščanin V. Toxicological and chemical assessment of arsenic-contaminated groundwater after electrochemical and advanced oxidation treatments. Sci Total Environ 2016; 543:147-154. [PMID: 26580737 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2015.10.158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2015] [Revised: 10/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/30/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Owing to its proven toxicity and mutagenicity, arsenic is regarded a principal pollutant in water used for drinking. The objective of this study was the toxicological and chemical evaluation of groundwater samples obtained from arsenic enriched drinking water wells before and after electrochemical and ozone-UV-H2O2-based advanced oxidation processes (EAOP). For this purpose, acute toxicity test with Daphnia magna and chronic toxicity test with Lemna minor L. were employed as well as in vitro bioassays using human peripheral blood lymphocytes (HPBLs). Several oxidative stress parameters were estimated in L.minor. Physicochemical analysis showed that EAOP treatment was highly efficient in arsenic but also in ammonia and organic compound removal from contaminated groundwater. Untreated groundwater caused only slight toxicity to HPBLs and D. magna in acute experiments. However, 7-day exposure of L. minor to raw groundwater elicited genotoxicity, a significant growth inhibition and oxidative stress injury. The observed genotoxicity and toxicity of raw groundwater samples was almost completely eliminated by EAOP treatment. Generally, the results obtained with L. minor were in agreement with those obtained in the chemical analysis suggesting the sensitivity of the model organism in monitoring of arsenic-contaminated groundwater. In parallel to chemical analysis, the implementation of chronic toxicity bioassays in a battery is recommended in the assessment of the toxic and genotoxic potential of such complex mixtures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Radić
- University of Zagreb, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, HR-10 000, Croatia.
| | - Helena Crnojević
- Croatian Waters, Main Water Management Laboratory, HR-10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Valerija Vujčić
- University of Zagreb, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, HR-10 000, Croatia
| | - Goran Gajski
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, HR-10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marko Gerić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, HR-10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Želimira Cvetković
- Institute of Public Health "Dr. Andrija Štampar", Department of Environmental Protection and Health Ecology, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Cvjetko Petra
- University of Zagreb, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, HR-10 000, Croatia
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, HR-10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
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Gajski G, Domijan AM, Žegura B, Štern A, Gerić M, Novak Jovanović I, Vrhovac I, Madunić J, Breljak D, Filipič M, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Melittin induced cytogenetic damage, oxidative stress and changes in gene expression in human peripheral blood lymphocytes. Toxicon 2016; 110:56-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2015.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2015] [Revised: 12/07/2015] [Accepted: 12/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Dinter D, Gajski G, Domijan AM, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Cytogenetic and oxidative status of human lymphocytes after exposure to clinically relevant concentrations of antimalarial drugs atovaquone and proguanil hydrochloride in vitro. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2015; 29:575-85. [PMID: 26434663 DOI: 10.1111/fcp.12153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Revised: 08/24/2015] [Accepted: 09/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Atovaquone (ATO) and proguanil hydrochloride (PROG) is the fixed combination for the prevention and treatment of Plasmodium falciparum malaria. As safe and effective antimalarial drugs are needed in both the treatment and the prophylaxis of malaria, this study was performed to investigate their possible cyto/genotoxic potential towards human lymphocytes and the possible mechanism responsible for it. Two different concentrations of ATO and PROG were used with and without S9 metabolic activation. The concentrations used were those found in human plasma when a fixed-dose combination of ATO and PROG was used: 2950/130 ng/mL after prophylactic treatment and 11 800/520 ng/mL after treatment of malaria, respectively. Possible cellular and DNA-damaging effects were evaluated by cell viability and alkaline comet assays, while oxidative stress potential was evaluated by formamidopyrimidine-DNA glycosylase (Fpg)-modified comet assay, in addition to measuring malondialdehyde and glutathione levels. According to our results, the ATO/PROG combination displayed only weak cyto/genotoxic potential towards human lymphocytes with no impact on oxidative stress parameters, suggesting that oxidative stress is not implicated in their mechanism of action towards human lymphocytes. Given that the key portion of the damaging effects was induced after S9 metabolic activation, it is to presume that the principal metabolite of PROG, cycloguanil, had the greatest impact. The obtained results indicate that the ATO/PROG combination is relatively safe for the consumption from the aspect of cyto/genotoxicity, especially if used for prophylactic treatment. Nevertheless, further cytogenetic research and regular patient monitoring are needed to minimize the risk of adverse events especially among frequent travellers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domagoj Dinter
- Oral Solid Forms, Pliva Croatia Ltd., Prilaz baruna Filipovića 25, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Goran Gajski
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana-Marija Domijan
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, A. Kovačića 1, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
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Gajski G, Čimbora-Zovko T, Rak S, Rožman M, Osmak M, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Combined antitumor effects of bee venom and cisplatin on human cervical and laryngeal carcinoma cells and their drug resistant sublines. J Appl Toxicol 2015; 34:1332-41. [PMID: 25493319 DOI: 10.1002/jat.2959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we investigated the possible combined anticancer ability of bee venom (BV) and cisplatin towards two pairs of tumour cell lines: parental cervical carcinoma HeLa cells and their cisplatin-resistant HeLa CK subline,as well as laryngeal carcinoma HEp-2 cells and their cisplatin-resistant CK2 subline. Additionally, we identified several peptides of BV in the BV sample used in the course of the study and determined the exact concentration of MEL. BV applied alone in concentrations of 30 to 60 μg ml(–1) displayed dose-dependent cytotoxicity against all cell lines tested. Cisplatin-resistant cervical carcinoma cells were more sensitive to BV than their parental cell lines (IC(50) values were 52.50 μg ml(–1) for HeLa vs.47.64 μg ml(–1) for HeLa CK cells), whereas opposite results were obtained for cisplatin-resistant laryngeal carcinoma cells (IC(50) values were 51.98 μg ml(–1) for HEp-2 vs. > 60.00 μg ml(–1) for CK2 cells). Treatment with BV alone induced a necrotic type of cell death, as shown by characteristic morphological features, fast staining with ethidium-bromide and a lack of cleavage of apoptotic marker poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) on Western blot. Combined treatment of BV and cisplatin induced an additive and/or weak synergistic effect towards tested cell lines, suggesting that BV could enhance the killing effect of selected cells when combined with cisplatin. Therefore, a greater anticancer effect could be triggered if BV was used in the course of chemotherapy. Our results suggest that combined treatment with BV could be useful from the point of minimizing the cisplatin concentration during chemotherapy, consequently reducing and/or postponing the development of cisplatin resistance.
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Kovács R, Csenki Z, Bakos K, Urbányi B, Horváth Á, Garaj-Vrhovac V, Gajski G, Gerić M, Negreira N, López de Alda M, Barceló D, Heath E, Kosjek T, Žegura B, Novak M, Zajc I, Baebler Š, Rotter A, Ramšak Ž, Filipič M. Assessment of toxicity and genotoxicity of low doses of 5-fluorouracil in zebrafish (Danio rerio) two-generation study. Water Res 2015; 77:201-212. [PMID: 25889180 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2015.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Revised: 02/21/2015] [Accepted: 03/25/2015] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Residues of anti-neoplastic drugs represent new and emerging pollutants in aquatic environments. Many of these drugs are genotoxic, and it has been postulated that they can cause adverse effects in aquatic ecosystems. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is one of the most extensively used anti-neoplastic drugs in cancer therapy, and this article describes the results of the first investigation using a two-generation toxicity study design with zebrafish (Danio rerio). Exposure of zebrafish to 5-FU (0.01, 1.0 and 100 μg/L) was initiated with adult zebrafish (F0 generation) and continued through the hatchings and adults of the F1 generation, and the hatchings of the F2 generation, to day 33 post-fertilisation. The exposure did not affect survival, growth and reproduction of the zebrafish; however, histopathological changes were observed in the liver and kidney, along with genotoxic effects, at all 5-FU concentrations. Increases in DNA damage determined using the comet assay were significant in the liver and blood cells, but not in the gills and gonads. In erythrocytes, a significant, dose-dependent increase in frequency of micronuclei was observed at all 5-FU concentrations. Whole genome transcriptomic analysis of liver samples of F1 generation zebrafish exposed to 0.01 μg/L and 1 μg/L 5-FU revealed dose-dependent increases in the number of differentially expressed genes, including up-regulation of several DNA-damage-responsive genes and oncogenes (i.e., jun, myca). Although this chronic exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of 5-FU did not affect the reproduction of the exposed zebrafish, it cannot be excluded that 5-FU can lead to degenerative changes, including cancers, which over long-term exposure of several generations might affect fish populations. The data from this study contribute to a better understanding of the potential consequences of chronic exposure of fish to low concentrations of anti-neoplastic drugs, and they demonstrate that further studies into multi-generation toxicity are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Róbert Kovács
- Department of Aquaculture, Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Szent István University, 1. Pater Károly St., H-2100 Gödöllo, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Csenki
- Department of Aquaculture, Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Szent István University, 1. Pater Károly St., H-2100 Gödöllo, Hungary
| | - Katalin Bakos
- Department of Aquaculture, Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Szent István University, 1. Pater Károly St., H-2100 Gödöllo, Hungary
| | - Béla Urbányi
- Department of Aquaculture, Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Szent István University, 1. Pater Károly St., H-2100 Gödöllo, Hungary
| | - Ákos Horváth
- Department of Aquaculture, Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Szent István University, 1. Pater Károly St., H-2100 Gödöllo, Hungary
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Goran Gajski
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marko Gerić
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Noelia Negreira
- Water and Soil Quality Research Group, Department of Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, E-08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miren López de Alda
- Water and Soil Quality Research Group, Department of Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, E-08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Damià Barceló
- Water and Soil Quality Research Group, Department of Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, E-08034 Barcelona, Spain; Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA), H(2)O Building, Scientific and Technological Park of the University of Girona, Emili Grahit 101, 17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Ester Heath
- Institute Jožef Stefan, Jadranska 29, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tina Kosjek
- Institute Jožef Stefan, Jadranska 29, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Bojana Žegura
- National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Matjaž Novak
- National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; Ecological Engineering Institute, Ljubljanska 9, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; Jozef Stefan International Postgraduate School, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Irena Zajc
- National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Špela Baebler
- National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Ana Rotter
- National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Živa Ramšak
- National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Metka Filipič
- National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Gerić M, Janušić R, Šarčević B, Garaj-Vrhovac V. A case-control study of genotoxicity endpoints in patients with papillary thyroid cancer. Mutation Research/Genetic Toxicology and Environmental Mutagenesis 2015; 784-785:47-50. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2015.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2015] [Revised: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/11/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Gerić M, Gajski G, Oreščanin V, Kollar R, Franekić J, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Toxicological assessment and management options for boat pressure-washing wastewater. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2015; 114:164-170. [PMID: 25638522 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2015.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2014] [Revised: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Boats are washed periodically for maintenance in order to remove biofoulants from hulls, which results in the generation of wastewater. This study aimed at evaluating the cyto/genotoxic and mutagenic properties of wastewater produced by pressure washing of boats. The chemical characterisation of this wastewater showed that Cu, Zn, V, Cr, Fe, Pb, and select organic contaminants exceeded the maximum allowable values from 1.7 up to 96 times. The wastewater produced negative effects on human lymphocytes resulting in decreased cell viability after 4 and 24h of exposure. Chromosome aberration, micronucleus, and comet assay parameters were significantly higher after 24h of exposure. At the same time, the Salmonella typhimurium test showed negative for both TA98 and TA100 strains at all of the concentrations tested. After the treatment of wastewater using electrochemical methods/ozonation during real scale treatment plant, removal rates of colour, turbidity and heavy metals ranged from 99.4% to 99.9%, while the removal of total organic carbon (TOC) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) was above 85%. This was reflected in the removal of the wastewater's cyto/genotoxicity, which was comparable to negative controls in all of the conducted tests, suggesting that such plants could be implemented in marinas to minimise human impact on marine systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marko Gerić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Goran Gajski
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | | | - Jasna Franekić
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, Laboratory for Biology and Microbial Genetics, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
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Domijan AM, Gajski G, Novak Jovanović I, Gerić M, Garaj-Vrhovac V. In vitro genotoxicity of mycotoxins ochratoxin A and fumonisin B1 could be prevented by sodium copper chlorophyllin – Implication to their genotoxic mechanism. Food Chem 2015; 170:455-62. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2014.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2013] [Revised: 07/04/2014] [Accepted: 08/10/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Gajski G, Oreščanin V, Gerić M, Kollar R, Lovrenčić Mikelić I, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Toxicity assessment of the water used for human consumption from the Cameron/Tuba City abandoned uranium mining area prior/after the combined electrochemical treatment/advanced oxidation. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2015; 22:516-526. [PMID: 25087498 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-014-3376-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2014] [Accepted: 07/23/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this work was detailed physicochemical, radiological, and toxicological characterization of the composite sample of water intended for human consumption in the Cameron/Tuba City abandoned uranium mining area before and after a combined electrochemical/advanced oxidation treatment. Toxicological characterization was conducted on human lymphocytes using a battery of bioassays. On the bases of the tested parameters, it could be concluded that water used for drinking from the tested water sources must be strictly forbidden for human and/or animal consumption since it is extremely cytogenotoxic, with high oxidative stress potential. A combined electrochemical treatment and posttreatment with ozone and UV light decreased the level of all physicochemical and radiological parameters below the regulated values. Consequently, the purified sample was neither cytotoxic nor genotoxic, indicating that the presented method could be used for the improvement of water quality from the sites highly contaminated with the mixture of heavy metals and radionuclides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Gajski
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia,
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Gajski G, Gerić M, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Evaluation of the in vitro cytogenotoxicity profile of antipsychotic drug haloperidol using human peripheral blood lymphocytes. Environ Toxicol Pharmacol 2014; 38:316-324. [PMID: 25036041 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2014.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2014] [Revised: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 06/26/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Haloperidol (HLP) is a potent antipsychotic drug that is commonly used for the treatments of schizophrenia and bipolar disorders but has a tendency to cause adverse effects. In the present study, the cyto/genotoxic potential of clinically relevant concentrations of HLP was evaluated in human peripheral blood lymphocytes (HPBLs) as sensitive biomarkers of exposure. HLP was administered as HLP hydrochloride in the final concentrations of 5, 10 and 20 ng/ml for 4 and 24 h period. Cytotoxicity was determined using differential staining of HPBLs with acridine orange and ethidium bromide while chromosomal aberrations, micronucleus and comet assays were applied to estimate the chromosomal and DNA damage after the treatment. The results of the present study indicate that HLP is capable of inducing cyto/genotoxicity in tested cells. Present study has also confirmed the need for further cytogenetic research and regular patient monitoring to minimize the risk of any possible adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Gajski
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Marko Gerić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
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Gerić M, Gajski G, Garaj-Vrhovac V. γ-H2AX as a biomarker for DNA double-strand breaks in ecotoxicology. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2014; 105:13-21. [PMID: 24780228 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2014.03.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2013] [Revised: 03/27/2014] [Accepted: 03/29/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The visualisation of DNA damage response proteins enables the indirect measurement of DNA damage. Soon after the occurrence of a DNA double-strand break (DSB), the formation of γ-H2AX histone variants is to be expected. This review is focused on the potential use of the γ-H2AX foci assay in assessing the genotoxicity of environmental contaminants including cytostatic pharmaceuticals, since standard methods may not be sensitive enough to detect the damaging effect of low environmental concentrations of such drugs. These compounds are constantly released into the environment, potentially representing a threat to water quality, aquatic organisms, and, ultimately, human health. Our review of the literature revealed that this method could be used in the biomonitoring and risk assessment of aquatic systems affected by wastewater from the production, usage, and disposal of cytostatic pharmaceuticals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marko Gerić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Goran Gajski
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
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Garaj-Vrhovac V, Oreščanin V, Gajski G, Gerić M, Ruk D, Kollar R, Radić Brkanac S, Cvjetko P. Toxicological characterization of the landfill leachate prior/after chemical and electrochemical treatment: a study on human and plant cells. Chemosphere 2013; 93:939-945. [PMID: 23790829 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2013.05.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2012] [Revised: 05/06/2013] [Accepted: 05/25/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
In this research, toxicological safety of two newly developed methods for the treatment of landfill leachate from the Piškornica (Croatia) sanitary landfill was investigated. Chemical treatment procedure combined chemical precipitation with CaO followed by coagulation with ferric chloride and final adsorption by clinoptilolite. Electrochemical treatment approach included pretreatment with ozone followed by electrooxidation/electrocoagulation and final polishing by microwave irradiation. Cell viability of untreated/treated landfill leachate was examined using fluorescence microscopy. Cytotoxic effect of the original leachate was obtained for both exposure periods (4 and 24 h) while treated samples showed no cytotoxic effect even after prolonged exposure time. The potential DNA damage of the untreated/treated landfill leachate was evaluated by the comet assay and cytokinesis-block micronucleus (CBMN) assay using either human or plant cells. The original leachate exhibited significantly higher comet assay parameters compared to negative control after 24 h exposure. On the contrary, there was no significant difference between negative control and chemically/electrochemically treated leachate for any of the parameters tested. There was also no significant increase in either CBMN assay parameter compared to the negative control following the exposure of the lymphocytes to the chemically or electrochemically treated landfill leachate for both exposure periods while the original sample showed significantly higher number of micronuclei, nucleoplasmic bridges and nuclear buds for both exposure times. Results suggest that both methods are suitable for the treatment of such complex waste effluent due to high removal efficiency of all measured parameters and toxicological safety of the treated effluent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
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Gajski G, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Melittin: a lytic peptide with anticancer properties. Environ Toxicol Pharmacol 2013; 36:697-705. [PMID: 23892471 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2013.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 192] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2013] [Revised: 06/12/2013] [Accepted: 06/20/2013] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Melittin (MEL) is a major peptide constituent of bee venom that has been proposed as one of the upcoming possibilities for anticancer therapy. Recent reports point to several mechanisms of MEL cytotoxicity in different types of cancer cells such as cell cycle alterations, effect on proliferation and/or growth inhibition, and induction of apoptotic and necrotic cell death trough several cancer cell death mechanisms, including the activation of caspases and matrix metalloproteinases. Although cytotoxic to a broad spectrum of tumour cells, the peptide is also toxic to normal cells. Therefore its therapeutic potential cannot be achieved without a proper delivery vehicle which could be overcome by MEL nanoparticles that possess the ability to safely deliver significant amount of MEL intravenously, and to target and kill tumours. This review paper summarizes the current knowledge and brings latest research findings on the anticancer potential of this lytic peptide with diverse functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Gajski
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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Oršolić N, Sirovina D, Gajski G, Garaj-Vrhovac V, Jazvinšćak Jembrek M, Kosalec I. Assessment of DNA damage and lipid peroxidation in diabetic mice: effects of propolis and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Mutat Res 2013; 757:36-44. [PMID: 23859956 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2013.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2013] [Revised: 03/25/2013] [Accepted: 04/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
There is growing recognition that polyphenolic compounds present in many plants and natural products may have beneficial effects on human health. Propolis - a substance produced by honeybees - and catechins in tea, in particular (-)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), are strong antioxidants that appear to have anti-obesity and anti-diabetic effects. The present study was designed to elucidate the anti-diabetic effect of the water-soluble derivative of propolis (WSDP), which contains phenolic acids as the main compounds, and EGCG in alloxan-induced (75mg/kg, iv) diabetes in mice. Intraperitoneal administration of EGCG or propolis at doses of 50mg/kg body weight (bw) to diabetic mice for a period of 7 days resulted in a significant increase in body weight and in haematological/immunological blood parameters, as well as in 100% survival of the mice. A significant decrease in lipid peroxidation in liver, kidney and brain tissue was also observed in diabetic mice treated with these two agents. Additionally, EGCG and propolis clearly reduced DNA damage in peripheral lymphocytes of diabetic mice. Our studies demonstrate the anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory potential of WSDP and EGCG, which could exert beneficial effects against diabetes and the associated consequences of free-radical formation in kidney, liver, spleen and brain tissue. The results suggest that dietary supplementation with WSDP or EGCG could potentially contribute to nutritional strategies for the prevention and treatment of diabetes mellitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nada Oršolić
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Rooseveltov trg 6, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
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Gajski G, Gerić M, Oreščanin V, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Cytogenetic status of healthy children assessed with the alkaline comet assay and the cytokinesis-block micronucleus cytome assay. Mutat Res 2012; 750:55-62. [PMID: 23123630 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2012.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2011] [Revised: 08/28/2012] [Accepted: 09/10/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
In the present study the alkaline comet assay and the cytokinesis-block micronucleus cytome (CBMN Cyt) assay were used to evaluate the baseline frequency of cytogenetic damage in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) of 50 healthy children from the general population in Croatia (age, 11.62±1.81 years). Mean values of tail length, tail intensity and tail moment, as comet assay parameters, were 12.92±0.10, 0.73±0.06 and 0.08±0.01, respectively. The mean frequency of micronuclei (MN) for all subjects was 2.32±0.28 per 1000 bi-nucleated cells, while the mean frequency of nucleoplasmic bridges (NPBs) was 1.72±0.24 and of nuclear buds (NBUDs) 1.44±0.19. The mean nuclear division index (NDI) was 1.70±0.05. When comet-assay parameters were considered, higher mean values for all three were found for the female population. According to the Mann-Whitney U test applied on the results of the comet assay, the only statistically significant difference between the male and female populations was found for tail length. Similar to the results obtained by the comet assay, girls showed higher mean values of all three measured parameters of the CBMN Cyt assay. This difference was statistically significant for total number of NPBs only. In the case of the NDI, a higher mean value was also obtained in girls, but this difference was not statistically significant. The results obtained present background data that could be considered as normal values for healthy children living in urban areas, and can later on serve as baseline values for further toxicological monitoring. Additionally, the usefulness of both techniques in measuring cytogenetic damage during bio-monitoring of children is confirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Gajski
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, Zagreb, Croatia
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Gajski G, Domijan AM, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Alterations of GSH and MDA levels and their association with bee venom-induced DNA damage in human peripheral blood leukocytes. Environ Mol Mutagen 2012; 53:469-477. [PMID: 22730252 DOI: 10.1002/em.21708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2011] [Revised: 05/02/2012] [Accepted: 05/07/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Bee venom (BV) has toxic effects in a variety of cell systems and oxidative stress has been proposed as a possible mechanism of its toxicity. This study investigated the in vitro effect of BV on glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and their association with BV-induced DNA strand breaks and oxidative DNA damage in human peripheral blood leukocytes (HPBLs). Blood samples were treated with BV at concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 10 μg/ml over different lengths of time, and DNA damage in HPBLs was monitored with the alkaline and formamidopyrimidine glycoslyase (FPG)-modified comet assays, while GSH and MDA levels were determined in whole blood. Results showed a significant increase in overall DNA damage and FPG-sensitive sites in DNA of HPBLs exposed to BV compared with HPBLs from controls. An increase in DNA damage (assessed with both comet assays) was significantly associated with changes in MDA and GSH levels. When pretreated with N-acetyl-L-cysteine, a source of cysteine for the synthesis of the endogenous antioxidant GSH, a significant reduction of the DNA damaging effects of BV in HPBLs was noted. This suggests that oxidative stress is at least partly responsible for the DNA damaging effects of BV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Gajski
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia.
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Gerić M, Ceraj-Cerić N, Gajski G, Vasilić Ž, Capuder Ž, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Cytogenetic status of human lymphocytes after exposure to low concentrations of p,p'-DDT, and its metabolites (p,p'-DDE, and p,p'-DDD) in vitro. Chemosphere 2012; 87:1288-1294. [PMID: 22354074 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2012.01.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2011] [Revised: 12/27/2011] [Accepted: 01/20/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Despite that the use of DDT has been restricted for more than 40 years to malaria affected areas, low doses of this pesticide and its metabolites DDE and DDD can be found in the environment around the world. Although it has been shown that these pollutants induce cell and DNA damage, the mechanisms of their cytogenotoxic activity remains largely unknown. This study looks into their possible genotoxic effects, at doses that can be found in body fluids, on human lymphocytes using the cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay and the comet assay. After exposure for 1, 6, and 24 h compounds p,p'-DDT (0.1 μg mL(-1)), p,p'-DDE (4.1 μg mL(-1)), and p,p'-DDD (3.9 μg mL(-1)) showed increase in DNA damage. The most significant results were observed at exposure period of 24 h where number of micronucleated cells increased from control 2.5±0.71 to 23.5±3.54, 13.5±0.71, and 16.5±6.36 for DDT, DDE, and DDD, respectively. Similar effect was observed using comet test where the percentage of DNA in comets tail increased from control 1.81±0.16 to 17.24±0.55, 11.21±0.56 and 9.28±0.50 for each compound, respectively. At the same time Fpg-comet assay failed to report induction of oxidative DNA damage of these pollutants. Additionally, the type of cell death was determined using diffusion assay and necrosis dominated. Our findings suggest that even at low concentrations, these pesticides could induce cytogenetic damage to human peripheral blood lymphocytes and in that manner have the impact on human health as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marko Gerić
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Ksaverska cesta 2, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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Gajski G, Oreščanin V, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Chemical composition and genotoxicity assessment of sanitary landfill leachate from Rovinj, Croatia. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2012; 78:253-259. [PMID: 22177983 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2011.11.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2011] [Revised: 11/09/2011] [Accepted: 11/23/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Chemical analysis and an in vitro approach were performed to assess elemental composition and genotoxic effects of the samples of landfill leachate taken from Lokva Vidotto sanitary landfill the official landfill for Rovinj town, Croatia. Two samples of landfill leachate were collected and analyzed in order to evaluate macro, micro and trace elements by atomic absorption spectroscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry and colorimetry. Genotoxicity of sanitary landfill leachate was evaluated in human lymphocytes by the use of the micronucleus test and comet assay. Samples were characterized with relatively low concentrations of heavy metals while organic component level exceeded upper permissible limit up to 39 times. Observed genotoxic effects should be connected with high concentrations of ammonia nitrogen, which exceeded permissible limit up to 180 times. Leachate samples of both sanitary landfills increased the frequency of micronuclei, nucleoplasmic bridges and nuclear buds. Increase of DNA damage in human lymphocytes was also detected by virtue of measuring comet assay parameters. All parameters showed statistically significant difference compared to negative control. Increased micronucleus and comet assay parameters indicate that both samples of sanitary landfill leachate are genotoxic and could pose environmental and human health risk if discharged to an aquatic environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Gajski
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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Gavella M, Lipovac V, Garaj-Vrhovac V, Gajski G. Protective Effect of Gangliosides on DNA in Human Spermatozoa Exposed to Cryopreservation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 33:1016-24. [DOI: 10.2164/jandrol.111.015586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Gerić M, Gajski G, Oreščanin V, Kollar R, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Chemical and toxicological characterization of the bricks produced from clay/sewage sludge mixture. J Environ Sci Health A Tox Hazard Subst Environ Eng 2012; 47:1521-1527. [PMID: 22702811 DOI: 10.1080/10934529.2012.680360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The present study aimed to characterize chemical properties of clay bricks containing 20 % of sewage sludge. After detection of potentially hazardous metals, we simulated precipitation exposure of such material to determine the amount of heavy metals that could leach out of the bricks. Metals, such as copper, zinc, nickel, cobalt, chromium, etc., were detected in leachate in low concentrations. Moreover, human peripheral blood lymphocytes were exposed to brick leachate for 24 h in order to evaluate its possible negative impact on human cells and genome in vitro. Cytotoxicity tests showed no effect on human peripheral blood lymphocytes viability after exposure to brick's leachate. On the contrary, the alkaline comet assay showed slight but significant increase in DNA damage with all three parameters tested. As we might predict, interactions of several heavy metals in low concentrations could be responsible for DNA damaging effect. In that manner, our findings suggest that leachates from sewage sludge-produced bricks may lead to adverse effects on the exposed human population, and that more stabile bricks should be developed to minimize leaching of heavy metals into the environment. Bricks with lower percentage of the sludge may be one of the solutions to reduce the toxic effect of the final product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marko Gerić
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, Zagreb, Croatia
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Zegura B, Gajski G, Straser A, Garaj-Vrhovac V, Filipič M. Microcystin-LR induced DNA damage in human peripheral blood lymphocytes. Mutat Res 2011; 726:116-122. [PMID: 22001196 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2011.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2011] [Revised: 07/07/2011] [Accepted: 08/16/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Human exposure to microcystins, which are produced by freshwater cyanobacterial species, is of growing concern due to increasing appearance of cyanobacterial blooms as a consequence of global warming and increasing water eutrophication. Although microcystins are considered to be liver-specific, there is evidence that they may also affect other tissues. These substances have been shown to induce DNA damage in vitro and in vivo, but the mechanisms of their genotoxic activity remain unclear. In human peripheral blood lymphocytes (HPBLs) exposure to non-cytotoxic concentrations (0, 0.1, 1 and 10μg/ml) of microcystin-LR (MCLR) induced a dose- and time-dependent increase in DNA damage, as measured with the comet assay. Digestion of DNA from MCLR-treated HPBLs with purified formamidopyrimidine-DNA glycosylase (Fpg) displayed a greater number of DNA strand-breaks than non-digested DNA, confirming the evidence that MCLR induces oxidative DNA damage. With the cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay no statistically significant induction of micronuclei, nucleoplasmic bridges and nuclear buds was observed after a 24-h exposure to MCLR. At the molecular level, no changes in the expression of selected genes involved in the cellular response to DNA damage and oxidative stress were observed after a 4-h exposure to MCLR (1μg/ml). After 24h, DNA damage-responsive genes (p53, mdm2, gadd45a, cdkn1a), a gene involved in apoptosis (bax) and oxidative stress-responsive genes (cat, gpx1, sod1, gsr, gclc) were up-regulated. These results provide strong support that MCLR is an indirectly genotoxic agent, acting via induction of oxidative stress, and that lymphocytes are also the target of microcystin-induced toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Zegura
- National Institute of Biology, Department for Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Strac IV, Pušić M, Gajski G, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Presence of phthalate esters in intravenous solution evaluated using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry method. J Appl Toxicol 2011; 33:214-9. [PMID: 22034089 DOI: 10.1002/jat.1741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2011] [Revised: 08/23/2011] [Accepted: 08/23/2011] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a plasticizer widely used in the production of poly-(vinyl) chloride (PVC) materials. It is a reproductive and developmental toxicant in animals and a suspected endocrine modulator in humans. DEHP is not covalently bound within the PVC molecule, which is why migration into a suitable medium can be expected. Since application of infusion solutions is one of the most common medical treatments, the objective of this study was to determine the migration of phthalates from softened PVC storage bags into infusion solution in different time periods within one year from date of production using a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry method. The measured values of DEHP ranged between 0.22 and 14.00 µg l(-1) , but the unexpected presence of other phthalate esters was also detected. It was concluded that values obtained in infusion solutions match the reference data and represent a minor risk for the patient. The presence of other phthalate esters leads to the conclusion that the pharmacopeic requirement for polymer cleanness was not fully met. Since phthalate esters are among the most extensively used industrial chemicals and are widely distributed in the environment, special precautions and further monitoring should be conducted to minimize any possible health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivona Vidić Strac
- Croatian National Institute of Public Health, Environmental Health Service, Zagreb, Croatia
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Gajski G, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Bee venom induced cytogenetic damage and decreased cell viability in human white blood cells after treatment in vitro: a multi-biomarker approach. Environ Toxicol Pharmacol 2011; 32:201-211. [PMID: 21843800 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2011.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2011] [Revised: 05/06/2011] [Accepted: 05/18/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate cytogenotoxic effects of bee venom to human lymphocytes and take a look into the mechanisms behind them. Bee venom was tested in concentrations ranging from 0.1μg/ml to 20μg/ml over different lengths of time. Cell viability, type of the cell death, and morphological alterations were evaluated using phase-contrast and fluorescent microscopy in addition to DNA diffusion assay, whereas cytogenotoxic effects were assessed with the micronucleus test. DNA damage and its relation to oxidative stress were evaluated combining the standard alkaline and the Fpg-modified comet assay. Our results showed lower cell viability, morphological cell alterations, cytogenotoxicity, and dominantly necrotic type of cell death in human lymphocytes after treatment with bee venom. All the effects were time- and dose-dependent. These results provide an insight into the effects of bee venom on the cell structure that could be relevant for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Gajski
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
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Dinter D, Gajski G, Garaj-Vrhovac V. An alkaline comet assay study on the antimalarial drug atovaquone in human peripheral blood lymphocytes: a study based on clinically relevant concentrations. J Appl Toxicol 2011; 33:56-62. [PMID: 21735454 DOI: 10.1002/jat.1711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2011] [Revised: 05/20/2011] [Accepted: 05/20/2011] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Atovaquone, a hydroxynaphthoquinone, is an anti-parasite drug, selectively targeting the mitochondrial respiratory chain of malaria parasite. It is used for both the treatment and prevention of malaria, usually in a fixed combination with proguanil. Although atovaquone has not often been associated with severe adverse reactions in the recommended dosages and has a relatively favorable side effect profile, the present study was undertaken to evaluate its cytogenotoxic potential towards human peripheral blood lymphocytes. Two different concentrations of atovaquone found in plasma when used in fixed-dose combination with proguanile hydrochloride were used with and without S9 metabolic activation: 2950 ng ml(-1) used for prophylactic treatment and 11 800 ng ml(-1) used in treatment of malaria. The results showed that lymphocyte viability was not affected after the treatment, suggesting that atovaquone was not cytotoxic in the given concentrations. With the alkaline comet assay we demonstrated that in human peripheral blood lymphocytes no significant changes in comet parameters occurred after the treatment. There were no differences in tested parameters with the addition of S9 metabolic activation, indicating that atovaquone either has no metabolite or it is not toxic in the given concentrations. Since no effects were observed after the treatment, it is to be concluded that atovaquone is safe from the aspect of genototoxicity in the recommended dosages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domagoj Dinter
- Pliva Croatia Ltd, Oral Solid Forms, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia.
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Gajski G, Oreščanin V, Garaj-Vrhovac V. Cytogenotoxicity of sewage sludge leachate before and after calcium oxide-based solidification in human lymphocytes. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2011; 74:1408-1415. [PMID: 21514671 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2011.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2010] [Revised: 02/21/2011] [Accepted: 04/02/2011] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Present study aimed to establish the chemical composition of sewage sludge leachate before/after calcium oxide-based solidification using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF). The other aim was to determine leachate effects on human lymphocyte and DNA integrity in vitro using a battery of bioassays (DNA diffusion assay, micronucleus test and comet assay) to determine effects of those complex mixtures of elements on cell and DNA integrity. EDXRF showed that nickel concentration in the leachate of untreated sludge was 18.5 times higher than the upper permissible limit for inert waste landfills. Other elements were kept below the permissible values. After sludge solidification, leachate concentrations of Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, and Pb dropped 1.6, 2.7, 37, 5.9, 3.2, 7.8, and 2.6 times, respectively. Untreated sludge leachate was cytogenotoxic to lymphocytes, and may lead to adverse effects on the exposed human populations, but calcium oxide-based solidification reduced these effects in significant manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Gajski
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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Oršolić N, Gajski G, Garaj-Vrhovac V, Dikić D, Prskalo ZŠ, Sirovina D. DNA-protective effects of quercetin or naringenin in alloxan-induced diabetic mice. Eur J Pharmacol 2011; 656:110-8. [PMID: 21277296 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2011.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2010] [Revised: 12/15/2010] [Accepted: 01/07/2011] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is associated with a high production of reactive oxygen species, which may cause oxidative DNA damage. High levels of genomic damage have been associated with liver and renal failure as well as immune-system decline. Flavonoids are effective antioxidants and may protect against several chronic diseases including diabetes. This study used the comet assay to assess the levels of DNA damage in the blood, liver and kidney cells in untreated and quercetin (QU) or naringenin treated diabetic mice. In addition, the study was designed to establish whether QU or naringenin might have a biological effect in protecting diabetic mice against oxidative stress by using survival studies to observe total body injury at the level of the organism. QU or naringenin were injected to mice intraperitoneally (i.p.) at a dose of 50mg/kg for 7days starting 2days after a single dose (75mg/kg, i.v.) alloxan injection. These findings suggest that QU or naringenin treatment resulted in a significant increase in the body weight, the haematological and immunological parameters of blood, as well as leading to 100% survival of diabetic mice. The tested flavonoids have protective effects against alloxan-induced DNA-damage in peripheral lymphocytes but not in the liver and kidney cells of diabetic mice. It might be hypothesised that diabetic mice with a high intake of flavonoid-rich foods, and specifically foods rich in quercetin or naringenin, might be relatively protected against long-term complications of diabetes due to decreased oxidative stress. Various co-operative and synergistic action mechanisms of the tested flavonoids may lead to the protection of the whole organism against diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nada Oršolić
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Rooseveltov trg 6, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
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Akakubo N, Kagawa N, Yabuuchi A, Silber SJ, Yamaguchi S, Nagumo Y, Takai Y, Ishihara S, Takehara Y, Kato O, Kocent J, Hu JCY, Neri QV, Rosenwaks Z, Palermo GD, Armuand G, Rodriguez-Wallberg K, Wettergren L, Lampic C, Martinez-Soto JC, Domingo JC, Cordovilla B, Gadea J, Landeras J, Sadri-Ardekani H, Akhondi MM, van der Veen F, de Rooij DG, Repping S, van Pelt AMM, Vanacker J, Luyckx V, Dolmans MM, Amorim CA, Van Langendonckt A, Donnez J, Camboni A, Camboni A, Amorim CA, Vanacker J, Dolmans MM, Van Langendonckt A, Donnez J, Gavella M, Lipovac V, Siftar Z, Garaj-Vrhovac V, Gajski G, Gook D, Borg J, Edgar DH, Brink-van der Vlugt JJ, Van der Velden VHJ, Noordijk A, Timmer-Bosscha H, Tissing WJE, Land JA, Hollema H, Van Echten-Arends J, Alvarez JG, Gosalvez A, Velilla E, Lopez-Teijon M, Lopez-Fernandez C, Gosalvez J, Kristensen SG, Rasmussen A, Yding Andersen C, Raziel A, Friedler S, Gidoni Y, Ben Ami I, Kaufman S, Omansky A, Strassburger D, Komarovsky D, Bern O, Kasterstein E, Komsky A, Maslansky B, Ron-El R, Fujimoto A, Osuga Y, Ichinose M, Oishi H, Harada M, Koizumi M, Takemura Y, Yano T, Taketani Y, Molnar Z, Mokanszki A, Benyo M, Bazsane Kassai Z, Olah E, Jakab A, Rodriguez-Wallberg KA, Vonheim E, Gumus E, Persson I, Lundqvist M, Karlstrom PO, Hovatta O, Pasqualotto FF, Teixeira R, Medeiros GS, Canabarro C, Tonezer J, Grando APC, Borges Jr. E, Pasqualotto EB, Westphal JR, Bastings L, Beerendonk CCM, Braat DDM, Peek R, Courbiere B, Berthelot-Ricou A, Di Giorgio C, De Meo M, Roustan A, Botta A, Perrin J, Abir R, Orvieto R, Friedman O, Ben-Haroush A, Fisch B, Lawrenz B, Henes J, Henes M, Neunhoeffer E, Schmalzing M, Fehm T, Koetter I. POSTER VIEWING SESSION - MALE AND FEMALE FERTILITY PRESERVATION. Hum Reprod 2011. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/26.s1.84] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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