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Stefanescu K, Timlin CL, Moy AS, Zapotoczny G. Reduced Isocyanate Release Using a Waterproof, Resin-Based Cast Alternative Relative to Fiberglass Casts. TOXICS 2023; 11:1002. [PMID: 38133403 PMCID: PMC10747184 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11121002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
The effects of occupational isocyanate exposure range from asthma and contact dermatitis to neurotoxicity and cancer. Respiratory sensitization due to orthopedic cast application has been well documented. This study aims to compare the safety of standard-of-care fiberglass casts and a novel waterproof cast alternative by measuring the amount of isocyanate released during off-gassing over time. A 3D-printed arm simulator with comparable casing material amounts was placed in a sealed chamber. An isocyanate-sensing color-changing (SafeAir) tag was used to measure the levels of toxic exposure. Triplicate trials were conducted across all time periods (15 min, 1 h, and 24 h) and conditions. The bare arm simulator and freshly opened tags served as negative controls. Normalized pixel intensity indexes and isocyanate release estimates in ppb were derived from ImageJ-analyzed SafeAir tag photos. Fiberglass casts exhibited greater isocyanate release than both the waterproof alternative (p = 0.0002) and no-cast controls (p = 0.0006), particularly at 24 h. The waterproof alternative and no-cast control did not statistically differ (p = 0.1603). Therefore, the waterproof alternative released less isocyanate than the fiberglass casts. Waterproof cast alternatives may be safer than fiberglass by limiting medical professionals' exposure to toxic isocyanates and, thus, decreasing their risk of suffering occupational asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Stefanescu
- Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, 1975 Zonal Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA;
| | | | | | - Grzegorz Zapotoczny
- Consortium for Technology & Innovation in Pediatrics, Lurie Children’s Hospital, 225 E Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60611, USA;
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2
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Huuskonen P, Porras SP, Scholten B, Portengen L, Uuksulainen S, Ylinen K, Santonen T. Occupational Exposure and Health Impact Assessment of Diisocyanates in Finland. TOXICS 2023; 11:229. [PMID: 36976995 PMCID: PMC10052111 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11030229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Diisocyanates are a group of chemicals widely used in different industrial applications. The critical health effects related to diisocyanate exposure are isocyanate sensitisation, occupational asthma and bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR). Industrial air measurements and human biomonitoring (HBM) samples were gathered in specific occupational sectors to examine MDI, TDI, HDI and IPDI and the respective metabolites from Finnish screening studies. HBM data can give a more accurate picture of diisocyanate exposure, especially if workers have been exposed dermally or used respiratory protection. The HBM data were used for conducting a health impact assessment (HIA) in specific Finnish occupational sectors. For this purpose, exposure reconstruction was performed on the basis of HBM measurements of TDI and MDI exposures using a PBPK model, and a correlation equation was made for HDI exposure. Subsequently, the exposure estimates were compared to a previously published dose-response curve for excess BHR risk. The results showed that the mean and median diisocyanate exposure levels and HBM concentrations were low for all diisocyanates. In HIA, the excess risk of BHR from MDI exposure over a working life period was highest in the construction and motor and vehicle industries and repair sectors, resulting in estimated excess risks of BHR of 2.0% and 2.6%, and 113 and 244 extra BHR cases in Finland, respectively. Occupational exposure to diisocyanates must be monitored because a clear threshold for DI sensitisation cannot be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasi Huuskonen
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, FI-00032 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Simo P. Porras
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, FI-00032 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Bernice Scholten
- The Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), 3508 TA Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lützen Portengen
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584 CK Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sanni Uuksulainen
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, FI-00032 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Katriina Ylinen
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, FI-00032 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tiina Santonen
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, FI-00032 Helsinki, Finland
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3
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Sayles C, Finnegan N, Pike T, Spence MW. Toluene diisocyanate occupational exposure data in the polyurethane industry (2005-2020): A descriptive summary from an industrial hygiene perspective. Toxicol Ind Health 2022; 38:606-621. [PMID: 35929225 DOI: 10.1177/07482337221112225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This article provides an overview of toluene diisocyanate (TDI) workplace air concentration data. Data were collected between 2005-2020 in workplaces across the United States, Canada, and the European Union by a number of different organizations, primarily using the sampling procedures published in OSHA Methods 42 and 5002. The data were then collated and organized by the International Isocyanate Institute. Air samples were collected from several market segments, with a large portion of the data (87%) from the flexible foam industry. The air samples (2534 in total) were categorized into "area" or "personal," and the personal samples were subcategorized into "task," "short term," and "long term." Most of the air sample concentrations (87%) were less than 5 ppb. However, the presence of airborne TDI greater than 5 ppb indicated the importance of respiratory protection in some situations; therefore, respirator use patterns were studied and summarized. Additionally, this article provides a summary of air sample concentrations at different flexible foam manufacturing job roles. The information on air sampling concentrations and respiratory protection during TDI applications collected in this paper could be useful for product stewardship and industrial hygiene purposes in the industries studied.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Mark W Spence
- International Isocyanate Institute, Inc., Mountain Lakes, NJ, USA
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4
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Coureau E, Fontana L, Lamouroux C, Pélissier C, Charbotel B. Is Isocyanate Exposure and Occupational Asthma Still a Major Occupational Health Concern? Systematic Literature Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182413181. [PMID: 34948791 PMCID: PMC8706635 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182413181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Isocyanate, whose disease-inducing mechanism is poorly understood, with poor prognosis, is widely used. Asthma is the most frequent manifestation of prolonged exposure. We assessed the evolution of the incidence of isocyanate-induced occupational asthma over time. PubMed and Cochrane databases were systematically searched for studies published since 1990 that assessed the relationship between occupational exposure to isocyanates and asthma. We identified 39 studies: five retrospective cohort studies, seven prospective cohort studies, three of which were inception cohorts), seven observational cross-sectional studies, five literature reviews, two case series, and 13 registry studies. The incidence of occupational asthma secondary to isocyanate exposure has decreased from more than 5% in the early 1990s to 0.9% in 2017 in the United States. Despite the wide use of optimal collective and individual protection measures, the risk of occupational asthma has stabilized. Occupational asthma risk can be assessed with good sensitivity using self-questionnaires and pulmonary function tests. Occupational avoidance should be implemented as soon as possible after the first symptoms appear because the prognosis becomes increasingly poor with the persistence of exposure. It is now necessary to study specifically cutaneous sensitization to isocyanates and to define what protective equipment is effective against this mode of exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elie Coureau
- UMRESTTE, UMR T 9405, Université Lyon 1, Université Gustave Eiffel—IFSTTAR, Domaine Rockefeller, 8 Avenue Rockefeller, 69008 Lyon, France; (E.C.); (C.L.)
- CRPPE-Lyon, Centre Régional de Pathologies Professionnelles et Environnementales de Lyon, Centre Hospitalier Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France
| | - Luc Fontana
- Hospital University Center of Saint-Etienne, Université Lyon 1, Université de St Etienne, IFSTTAR, UMRESTTE, UMR T 9405, 42005 Saint-Etienne, France; (L.F.); (C.P.)
- Service de Santé au Travail, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Saint-Etienne, 42005 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Céline Lamouroux
- UMRESTTE, UMR T 9405, Université Lyon 1, Université Gustave Eiffel—IFSTTAR, Domaine Rockefeller, 8 Avenue Rockefeller, 69008 Lyon, France; (E.C.); (C.L.)
- CRPPE-Lyon, Centre Régional de Pathologies Professionnelles et Environnementales de Lyon, Centre Hospitalier Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France
| | - Carole Pélissier
- Hospital University Center of Saint-Etienne, Université Lyon 1, Université de St Etienne, IFSTTAR, UMRESTTE, UMR T 9405, 42005 Saint-Etienne, France; (L.F.); (C.P.)
- Service de Santé au Travail, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Saint-Etienne, 42005 Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Barbara Charbotel
- UMRESTTE, UMR T 9405, Université Lyon 1, Université Gustave Eiffel—IFSTTAR, Domaine Rockefeller, 8 Avenue Rockefeller, 69008 Lyon, France; (E.C.); (C.L.)
- CRPPE-Lyon, Centre Régional de Pathologies Professionnelles et Environnementales de Lyon, Centre Hospitalier Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-4-78-77-28-09
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5
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Spence MW, Plehiers PM. Letter to the Editor concerning Gui et al.; Inception cohort study of workers exposed to toluene diisocyanate at a polyurethane foam factory. Am J Ind Med 2021; 64:1053-1054. [PMID: 34647334 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mark W. Spence
- International Isocyanate Institute, Inc. Mountain Lakes New Jersey USA
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PARK RM. Risk Assessment for Toluene Diisocyanate and Respiratory Disease Human Studies. Saf Health Work 2021; 12:174-183. [PMID: 34178394 PMCID: PMC8209360 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2020.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toluene diisocyanate (TDI) is a highly reactive chemical that causes sensitization and has also been associated with increased lung cancer. A risk assessment was conducted based on occupational epidemiologic estimates for several health outcomes. METHODS Exposure and outcome details were extracted from published studies and a NIOSH Health Hazard Evaluation for new onset asthma, pulmonary function measurements, symptom prevalence, and mortality from lung cancer and respiratory disease. Summary exposure-response estimates were calculated taking into account relative precision and possible survivor selection effects. Attributable incidence of sensitization was estimated as were annual proportional losses of pulmonary function. Excess lifetime risks and benchmark doses were calculated. RESULTS Respiratory outcomes exhibited strong survivor bias. Asthma/sensitization exposure response decreased with increasing facility-average TDI air concentration as did TDI-associated pulmonary impairment. In a mortality cohort where mean employment duration was less than 1 year, survivor bias pre-empted estimation of lung cancer and respiratory disease exposure response. CONCLUSION Controlling for survivor bias and assuming a linear dose-response with facility-average TDI concentrations, excess lifetime risks exceeding one per thousand occurred at about 2 ppt TDI for sensitization and respiratory impairment. Under alternate assumptions regarding stationary and cumulative effects, one per thousand excess risks were estimated at TDI concentrations of 10 - 30 ppt. The unexplained reported excess mortality from lung cancer and other lung diseases, if attributable to TDI or associated emissions, could represent a lifetime risk comparable to that of sensitization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert M. PARK
- Division of Science Integration, Risk Evaluation Branch, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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7
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Deng Y, Chen S, Song S, Huang Y, Chen R, Tao A. Anti-DLL4 ameliorates toluene diisocyanate-induced experimental asthma by inhibiting Th17 response. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 94:107444. [PMID: 33578263 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Toluene diisocyanate (TDI) exhibits an ability to induce steroid insensitive asthma with the involvement of Th17 cells. And emerging evidence has indicated that DLL4 signaling promotes Th17 differentiation through directly upregulating Rorc and IL-17 transcription. Thus, we sought to evaluate the effects of DLL4 blocking antibody on TDI-induced asthma model. Female BALB/c mice were sensitized and challenged with TDI to generate an asthma model. TDI-exposed mice were intraperitoneally injected with anti-DLL4 antibody and then analyzed for various parameters of the airway inflammatory responses. Increased expression of DLL4 in spleen and lung was detected in TDI-exposed mice. Furthermore, anti-DLL4 treatment alleviated TDI-induced airway hyperreactivity (AHR), airway inflammation, airway epithelial injury and airway smooth muscle (ASM) thickening. In the meantime, neutralizing DLL4 also blunted Th17 response via downregulation of ROR-γt expression, while had no effect on Th2 cells and regulatory T (Treg) cells. Overall, anti-DLL4 ameliorated TDI-induced experimental asthma by inhibiting Th17 response, implying the feasibility of targeting DLL4 for therapy of Th17-predominant severe asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Deng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Allergy & Clinical Immunology, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, China
| | - Shuyu Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Allergy & Clinical Immunology, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, China; Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Diseases, The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen 518020, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shijie Song
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Allergy & Clinical Immunology, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, China
| | - Yin Huang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Allergy & Clinical Immunology, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, China
| | - Rongchang Chen
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Diseases, The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen 518020, China
| | - Ailin Tao
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Allergy & Clinical Immunology, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, China.
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8
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Rother D, Schlüter U. Occupational Exposure to Diisocyanates in the European Union. Ann Work Expo Health 2021; 65:893-907. [PMID: 33889955 PMCID: PMC8501949 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxab021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Diisocyanates are a chemical group that are widely used at workplaces in many sectors. They are also potent skin- and respiratory sensitizers. Exposure to diisocyanates is a main cause of occupational asthma in the European Union. To reduce occupational exposure to diisocyanates and consequently the cases of diisocyanate-induced asthma, a restriction on diisocyanates was recently adopted under the REACH Regulation in the European Union. Methods A comprehensive evaluation of the data on occupational exposure to the most important diisocyanates at workplaces was made and is reported here. The diisocyanates considered are methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), toluene diisocyanate (TDI), and hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI), accounting for more than 95% of the market volume in the EU. The exposure assessment is based on data from Chemical Safety Reports (CSRs) of REACH Registration Dossiers, workplace air monitoring data from Germany, from the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE), and literature data relevant for the EU, and the USA. Results Occupational exposure to diisocyanates is particularly relevant in: (i) C.A.S.E. applications (Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants, Elastomers), (ii) production of polyurethanes (PUs) (e.g. slab-stock foam), (iii) handling of partly uncured PU products (e.g. cutting, demoulding, spray application of foam), and (iv) when diisocyanates/PUs are heated (e.g. hot lamination, foundry applications/casting forms). Ranking of the reported data on inhalation to diisocyanate exposure at workplaces (maximum values) leads to following order: (i) HDI and its oligomers in coatings, (ii) MDI in spray foam applications, (iii) TDI in manufacture of foam, (iv) TDI in manufacture of PUs and PU composite materials, (v) TDI in adhesives, (vi) MDI in adhesives, (vii) MDI in manufacture of PUs and PU composite materials, (viii) TDI in coatings, (ix) MDI in manufacture of foam, and (x) HDI in adhesives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dag Rother
- Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA), Division 4 - Hazardous Substances and Biological Agents, Unit 4.1 - Exposure Scenarios, Friedrich-Henkel-Weg 1, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Urs Schlüter
- Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA), Division 4 - Hazardous Substances and Biological Agents, Unit 4.1 - Exposure Scenarios, Friedrich-Henkel-Weg 1, Dortmund, Germany
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Zhang Y, Li F, Peng N, Peng L. Environmental impact assessment of air-permeable plastic runway production in China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 730:139073. [PMID: 32388380 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.139073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2020] [Revised: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
With the rapid development of plastic runways in China, incidents of toxic runways that are detrimental to human health frequently occurred. This phenomenon has resulted in public concern on the safety and cleanliness of plastic runways. To improve the sustainability of these runways, the environmental performance of the produced plastic runways should be evaluated. The critical hotspots for plastic runway studies should be determined, and a cleaner optimization path of critical materials should be explored. In this study, a cradle-to-gate life cycle assessment (LCA) on the air-permeable plastic runway was conducted. The green factory formula was identified, and the environmental impacts of the production process were quantitatively analyzed. Detailed life cycle inventory data were obtained from the on-site survey of typical plastic runway manufacturer enterprises in China. Environmental impacts were calculated using the CML 2001 method built into the GaBi 8.0 software. Results indicated that the 1: 7 ratio of polyurethane adhesive to ethylene-propylene-diene monomer rubber particles was the greenest formula with the least environmental impact. The environmental hotspots were from the front-end of raw material production during the mixing phase and the biomass steam input during the curing phase. The characteristic pollutants generated from mixing phase were CO2, methane, NOx, and VOCs, whereas those from the curing phase were CO2, NOx, SO2, freon, HCl, and NH3. Moreover, methylene diisocyanate (MDI) was the cleaner raw material for air-permeable plastic runway production, because the environmental impact of producing an equal mass of MDI was 39%-89% of that by toluene diisocyanate. Thus, this LCA study presents a strategy for the sustainable improvement of air-permeable plastic runway production and also proposes policy recommendations for decision makers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- College of the Environment & Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiang'an South Road, Xiang'an District, Xiamen 361102, China.
| | - Feng Li
- Taizhou Ecological Environment Bureau, Yonghui Road, Hailing District, Taizhou City, Jiangsu Province, 225300, China
| | - Najun Peng
- College of the Environment & Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiang'an South Road, Xiang'an District, Xiamen 361102, China.
| | - Lihong Peng
- College of the Environment & Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiang'an South Road, Xiang'an District, Xiamen 361102, China.
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Aubin S, Hamdi EM, Joly A, Sarazin P, Lesage J, Breau L, Spence M, Gagné S. On site comparison of the OSHA 42, Asset EZ4-NCO, Iso-Chek, DAN and CIP10 methods for measuring toluene diisocyanate (TDI) at a polyurethane foam factory. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2020; 17:207-219. [PMID: 32275486 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2020.1731518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Because of the semi-volatile nature of diisocyanates (being airborne in both physical vapor and particulate phases), their high reactivity and low occupational exposure limits, diisocyanate exposure evaluation has been challenging for industrial hygienists and laboratories. The objective of this study was to compare the toluene diisocyanate (2,4 and 2,6 isomers, TDI) concentration measured by five methods in a flexible polyurethane foam factory using different collection or derivatization approaches. The methods used were: OSHA 42 modified (filter, 1-(2-pyridyl)piperazine) (OSHA), Asset EZ4-NCO (denuder and filter, dibutylamine) (Asset), Iso-Chek (double-filter, 9-(N-methylaminomethyl) anthracene and 1,2-methoxyphenylpiperazine), DAN (filter, 1,8-diaminonaphthalene), and CIP10 (centrifugation, 1,2-methoxyphenylpiperazine). Particle real-time monitoring for concentration and size distribution was performed in parallel to improve the understanding of the potential bias between methods. The comparison study was performed over 3 days, providing 18 replicates for each of the 5 methods. Isocyanate concentrations collected for each sampling method were compared using linear mixed effect modeling. Compared to OSHA, which yielded the highest concentrations overall, the Asset and DAN methods provided the smallest biases (-29% (95% CI [-52;-6]) and -45% (95% CI [-67;-23]), respectively), while the CIP10 and Iso-Chek methods provided the largest biases (-82% (95% CI [-105;-66]) and -96% (95% CI [-118;-75]), respectively). The substantial bias of Iso-Chek and CIP10 seemed to be explained by the predominance of TDI in the form of sub-micron particles that were inadequately captured by these two methods due to their sampling principle, which are particle filtration without derivatizing agent and centrifugation respectively. Asset and DAN performance seemed to decrease as the sampling time increased. While DAN's bias could be related to a reagent deficiency on the filter, the disparities between OSHA and Asset, both considered as reference methods, highlight the fact that the mechanisms of collection, derivation and extraction do not seem to be completely controlled. Finally, an upward trend has been observed between concentrations of particles below 300 nm in size and concentration levels of TDI. It has also been observed that TDI levels increased with the TDI foam index produced at the facility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Aubin
- Laboratory Division, Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Chemistry Department, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec
| | - El Mekki Hamdi
- Laboratory Division, Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Chemistry Department, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec
| | - Audrey Joly
- Laboratory Division, Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Chemistry Department, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec
| | - Philippe Sarazin
- Laboratory Division, Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Jacques Lesage
- Chemistry Department, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec
| | - Livain Breau
- Chemistry Department, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec
| | - Mark Spence
- International Isocyanate Institute, Inc., Boonton, New Jersey
| | - Sébastien Gagné
- Laboratory Division, Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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Wisnewski AV, Nassar AF, Liu J, Bello D. Dilysine-Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI), a Urine Biomarker of MDI Exposure? Chem Res Toxicol 2019; 32:557-565. [PMID: 30724074 PMCID: PMC6465083 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.8b00262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Biomonitoring of methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) in urine may be useful in industrial hygiene and exposure surveillance approaches toward disease (occupational asthma) prevention and in understanding pathways by which the internalized chemical is excreted. We explored possible urine biomarkers of MDI exposure in mice after respiratory tract exposure to MDI, as glutathione (GSH) reaction products (MDI-GSH), and after skin exposure to MDI dissolved in acetone. LC-MS analyses of urine identified a unique m/ z 543.29 [M + H]+ ion from MDI-exposed mice but not from controls. The m/ z 543.29 [M + H]+ ion was detectable within 24 h of a single MDI skin exposure and following multiple respiratory tract exposures to MDI-GSH reaction products. The m/ z 543.29 [M + H]+ ion possessed properties of dilysine-MDI, including (a) an isotope distribution pattern for a molecule with the chemical formula C27H38N6O6, (b) the expected collision-induced dissociation (CID) fragmentation pattern upon MS/MS, and (c) a retention time in reversed-phase LC-MS identical to that of synthetic dilysine-MDI. Further MDI-specific Western blot studies suggested albumin (which contains multiple dilysine sites susceptible to MDI carbamylation) as a possible source for dilysine-MDI and the presence of MDI-conjugated albumin in urine up to 6 days after respiratory tract exposure. Two additional [M + H]+ ions ( m/ z 558.17 and 863.23) were found exclusively in urine of mice exposed to MDI-GSH via the respiratory tract and possessed characteristics of previously described cyclized MDI-GSH and oxidized glutathione (GSSG)-MDI conjugates, respectively. Together the data identify urinary biomarkers of MDI exposure in mice and possible guidance for future translational investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam V. Wisnewski
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ala F Nassar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Dhimiter Bello
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts, Lowell, MA, USA
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12
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Toluene Diisocyanate Exposure: Exposure Assessment and Development of Cross-Facility Similar Exposure Groups Among Toluene Diisocyanate Production Plants. J Occup Environ Med 2018; 59 Suppl 12:S1-S12. [PMID: 29200133 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to characterize workplace toluene diisocyanate (TDI) exposures using standardized industrial hygiene exposure assessment procedures for use in a prospective epidemiologic study of occupational asthma. METHODS Over 2300 representative routine full shift time-weighted average (TWA) and short-term high potential exposure tasks (HPETs) air samples in groups across three TDI plants were collected over a nearly 7-year period. RESULTS Data-derived similar exposure groups (SuperSEGs) were developed across the plants based on TWA sampling using cluster analysis. Individual cumulative exposure estimates were developed on the basis of the SuperSEGs. CONCLUSION Workplace TWA exposures to TDI were adequately characterized quantitatively, but HPET exposures were adequately characterized only by qualitative measures. The mean TWA exposure was 0.65 parts per billion for 1594 routine samples. These TWA and HPET exposures can be used to support exposure-response analyses.
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Lynch HN, Prueitt RL, Goodman JE. Critique of the ACGIH 2016 derivation of toluene diisocyanate Threshold Limit Values. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2018; 97:189-196. [PMID: 29964120 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2018.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Revised: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In 2016, the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) lowered the 8-hr Threshold Limit Value - time-weighted average (TLV-TWA) for toluene diisocyanate (TDI) from 5 ppb to 1 ppb, and the 15-min short-term exposure limit (STEL) from 20 ppb to 5 ppb. We evaluated ACGIH's basis for lowering these values. It is our opinion that the ACGIH's evaluation of the evidence for occupational asthma and respiratory effects from TDI exposure does not fully integrate the results of all the available human and animal studies. We found that some studies reported occupational asthma cases at TWAs less than 5 ppb, but these cases were likely caused by peak exposures above 20 ppb. Advances in industrial hygiene have reduced peak exposures and the incidence of upset conditions, such as spills and accidents, in modern TDI facilities. Taken together, the human evidence indicates that adherence to the previous 8-hr TLV-TWA and 15-min STEL (5 ppb and 20 ppb, respectively) prevents most, if not all, cases of occupational asthma, and eliminates or reduces the risk of lung function decrements and other respiratory effects. While limited, the animal literature supports the human evidence and indicates that TDI-induced asthma is a threshold phenomenon. We conclude that ACGIH's decision to lower the TLV-TWA and STEL values for TDI is not adequately supported.
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Tsuji M, Ishihara Y, Isse T, Koriyama C, Yamamoto M, Kakiuchi N, Yu HS, Tanaka M, Tsuchiya T, Ohta M, Tanaka R, Kawamoto T. Evaluation of chemical-specific IgG antibodies in male workers from a urethane foam factory. Environ Health Prev Med 2018; 23:24. [PMID: 29921217 PMCID: PMC6010152 DOI: 10.1186/s12199-018-0713-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Plastic resins are complex chemicals that contain toluene diisocyanate (TDI) and/or trimellitic anhydride (TMA), which cause occupational allergies (OA), including respiratory allergies. Serum IgGs against TDI and TMA have been suggested as potential markers of the exposure status and as exploring cause of OA. Although TDI-specific IgG has been examined for suspected OA, TMA-specific IgG is not commonly evaluated in a urethane foam factory. This study therefore investigated both TDI- and TMA-specific IgGs in suspected OA patients and to evaluate the usefulness of the measurement of multiple chemical-specific IgG measurement for practical monitoring. Methods Blood samples were collected from two male workers who developed respiratory allergies supposedly caused by occupational exposure to TDI and/or TMA for the presence of TDI- and TMA-specific IgGs. In addition, blood samples from 75 male workers from a urethane foam factory, along with 87 male control subjects, were collected in 2014 and tested for the same IgGs in 2014. The presence and levels of TDI- and TMA-specific serum IgGs were measured using dot blot assays. Results We found that controls had mean concentrations of TDI- and TMA-specific IgGs of 0.98 and 2.10 μg/mL, respectively. In the two workers with respiratory allergies, the TDI-specific IgG concentrations were 15.6 and 9.51 μg/mL, and TMA-specific IgG concentrations were 4.56 and 14.4 μg/mL, which are clearly higher than those in controls. Mean concentrations of TDI- and TMA-specific IgGs in the factory workers were 1.89 and 2.41 μg/mL, respectively, and are significantly higher than those of the controls (P < 0.001 and P < 0.026 for TDI- and TMA-specific IgGs, respectively). Conclusion The workers suspected of OA showed an evidently high level of TDI- and TMA-specific IgG, and these levels in workers at the urethane foam factory were also significantly higher than those in controls. In conclusion, the measurement of TDI- and TMA-specific IgG among workers using plastic resins is helpful to monitor their exposure status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayumi Tsuji
- Department of Environment Health, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan.
| | - Yasuhiro Ishihara
- Laboratory of Molecular Brain Science, Graduate School of Integrated Arts and Sciences, Hiroshima University, Higashihiroshima, Japan
| | - Toyohi Isse
- Department of Environment Health, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Chihaya Koriyama
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Megumi Yamamoto
- Department of Environment and Public Health, National Institute for Minamata Disease, Minamata, Japan
| | - Noriaki Kakiuchi
- Institute of industrial and Ecological Sciences, University of occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Hsu-Sheng Yu
- Department of Environment Health, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan.,Department of Food Science, College of Agriculture, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Masayuki Tanaka
- Department of Environment Health, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Takuto Tsuchiya
- Department of Environment Health, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Masanori Ohta
- Department of Food and Health Sciences, International College of Arts and Sciences, Fukuoka Women's University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Rie Tanaka
- Department of Environment Health, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Kawamoto
- Department of Environment Health, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
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15
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Daniels RD. Occupational asthma risk from exposures to toluene diisocyanate: A review and risk assessment. Am J Ind Med 2018; 61:282-292. [PMID: 29389014 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toluene Diisocyanate (TDI) is a known respiratory sensitizer linked to occupational asthma (OA). To better manage worker risks, an appropriate characterization of the TDI-OA dose-risk relationship is needed. METHODS The literature was reviewed for data suitable for dose-response modeling. Previous study data were fit to models to derive prospective occupational exposure limits (OELs), using benchmark dose (BMD) and low-dose extrapolation approaches. RESULTS Data on eight TDI-exposed populations were suitable for analysis. There were 118 OA cases in a population contributing 13 590 person-years. The BMD-based OEL was 0.4 ppb. The OEL based on low-dose extrapolation to working lifetime extra risk of 1/1000 was 0.3 ppb. CONCLUSIONS This study synthesized epidemiologic data to characterize the TDI-OA dose-risk relationship. This approach yielded prospective OEL estimates below recent recommendations by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, but given significant study limitations, this should be interpreted with caution. Confirmatory research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert D. Daniels
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH); Cincinnati, Ohio
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16
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Watson-Wright C, Singh D, Demokritou P. Toxicological Implications of Released Particulate Matter during Thermal Decomposition of Nano-Enabled Thermoplastics. NANOIMPACT 2017; 5:29-40. [PMID: 29333505 PMCID: PMC5764161 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2016.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Nano-enabled thermoplastics are part of the growing market of nano-enabled products (NEPs) that have vast utility in several industries and consumer goods. The use and disposal of NEPs at their end of life has raised concerns about the potential release of constituent engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) during thermal decomposition and their impact on environmental health and safety. To investigate this issue, industrially relevant nano-enabled thermoplastics including polyurethane, polycarbonate, and polypropylene containing carbon nanotubes (0.1 and 3% w/v, respectively), polyethylene containing nanoscale iron oxide (5% w/v), and ethylene vinyl acetate containing nanoscale titania (2 and 5% w/v) along with their pure thermoplastic matrices were thermally decomposed using the recently developed lab based Integrated Exposure Generation System (INEXS). The life cycle released particulate matter (called LCPM) was monitored using real time instrumentation, size fractionated, sampled, extracted and prepared for toxicological analysis using primary small airway epithelial cells to assess potential toxicological effects. Various cellular assays were used to assess reactive oxygen species and total glutathione as measurements of oxidative stress along with mitochondrial function, cellular viability, and DNA damage. By comparing toxicological profiles of LCPM released from polymer only (control) with nano-enabled LCPM, potential nanofiller effects due to the use of ENMs were determined. We observed associations between NEP properties such as the percent nanofiller loading, host matrix, and nanofiller chemical composition and the physico-chemical properties of released LCPM, which were linked to biological outcomes. More specifically, an increase in percent nanofiller loading promoted a toxicological response independent of increasing LCPM dose. Importantly, differences in host matrix and nanofiller composition were shown to enhance biological activity and toxicity of LCPM. This work highlights the importance of assessing the toxicological properties of LCPM and raises environmental health and safety concerns of nano-enabled products at their end of life during thermal decomposition/incineration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Philip Demokritou
- To whom correspondence should be addressed: Prof. Philip Demokritou, Associate Professor, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public, Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA, , Tel: 617-432-3481
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17
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Radon K, Nowak D, Vogelberg C, Ruëff F. Career Advice for Young Allergy Patients. DEUTSCHES ARZTEBLATT INTERNATIONAL 2016; 113:519-24. [PMID: 27581504 PMCID: PMC5012160 DOI: 10.3238/arztebl.2016.0519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2016] [Revised: 04/14/2016] [Accepted: 04/14/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND One-third of all young persons entering the work force have a history of atopic disease. Occupationally induced allergy and asthma generally arise in the first few months on the job, while pre-existing symptoms tend to worsen. Young persons with a history of an atopic disease should receive evidence-based advice before choosing a career. METHODS We systematically searched PubMed for cohort studies investigating the new onset of asthma, rhinitis, or hand eczema among job trainees from before the start of training and onward into the first few years on the job. The search revealed 514 articles; we read their abstracts and selected 85 full-text articles for further analysis. 24 of these met the inclusion criteria. RESULTS According to present evidence, atopy and a history of allergic disease (allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis) are the main risk factors for occupationally induced disease. The predictive value of a personal history of allergic diseases for the later development of an occupationally induced disease varies from 9% to 64% in the studies we analyzed. It follows that only young people with severe asthma or severe atopic eczema should be advised against choosing a job that is associated with a high risk of allergy, e.g., hairdressing or working with laboratory animals. Young people with a history of other atopic diseases should be counseled about their individual risk profile. CONCLUSION In view of the relatively poor predictive value of pre-existing atopic disease, secondary prevention is particularly important. This includes frequent medical follow-up of the course of symptoms over the first few years on the job. If sensitization or allergic symptoms arise, it should be carefully considered whether exposure reduction will enable the apprentice to stay on the job.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Radon
- Institute and Outpatient Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, AllergieZENTRUM, Klinikum der Universität München
- Comprehensive Pneumology Center, DZL, Deutsches Zentrum für Lungenforschung, München
| | - Dennis Nowak
- Institute and Outpatient Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, AllergieZENTRUM, Klinikum der Universität München
- Comprehensive Pneumology Center, DZL, Deutsches Zentrum für Lungenforschung, München
| | | | - Franziska Ruëff
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, AllergieZENTRUM, Klinikum der Universität München
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18
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Devos FC, Boonen B, Alpizar YA, Maes T, Hox V, Seys S, Pollaris L, Liston A, Nemery B, Talavera K, Hoet PHM, Vanoirbeek JAJ. Neuro-immune interactions in chemical-induced airway hyperreactivity. Eur Respir J 2016; 48:380-92. [PMID: 27126687 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.01778-2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2015] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Asthma may be induced by chemical sensitisers, via mechanisms that are still poorly understood. This type of asthma is characterised by airway hyperreactivity (AHR) and little airway inflammation. Since potent chemical sensitisers, such as toluene-2,4-diisocyanate (TDI), are also sensory irritants, it is suggested that chemical-induced asthma relies on neuro-immune mechanisms.We investigated the involvement of transient receptor potential channels (TRP) A1 and V1, major chemosensors in the airways, and mast cells, known for their ability to communicate with sensory nerves, in chemical-induced AHR.In vitro intracellular calcium imaging and patch-clamp recordings in TRPA1- and TRPV1-expressing Chinese hamster ovarian cells showed that TDI activates murine TRPA1, but not TRPV1. Using an in vivo model, in which an airway challenge with TDI induces AHR in TDI-sensitised C57Bl/6 mice, we demonstrated that AHR does not develop, despite successful sensitisation, in Trpa1 and Trpv1 knockout mice, and wild-type mice pretreated with a TRPA1 blocker or a substance P receptor antagonist. TDI-induced AHR was also abolished in mast cell deficient Kit(Wsh) (/Wsh) mice, and in wild-type mice pretreated with the mast cell stabiliser ketotifen, without changes in immunological parameters.These data demonstrate that TRPA1, TRPV1 and mast cells play an indispensable role in the development of TDI-elicited AHR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fien C Devos
- Centre for Environment and Health, Dept of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Brett Boonen
- Laboratory for Ion Channel Research and TRP Research Platform (TRPLe), Dept of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Yeranddy A Alpizar
- Laboratory for Ion Channel Research and TRP Research Platform (TRPLe), Dept of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tania Maes
- Laboratory of Pneumology, Dept of Respiratory Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Valérie Hox
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, Dept of Microbiology and Immunology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sven Seys
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, Dept of Microbiology and Immunology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lore Pollaris
- Centre for Environment and Health, Dept of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Adrian Liston
- Laboratory of Genetics of Autoimmunity, Dept of Microbiology and Immunology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Benoit Nemery
- Centre for Environment and Health, Dept of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Karel Talavera
- Laboratory for Ion Channel Research and TRP Research Platform (TRPLe), Dept of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Peter H M Hoet
- Centre for Environment and Health, Dept of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jeroen A J Vanoirbeek
- Centre for Environment and Health, Dept of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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19
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Broström JM, Ye ZW, Axmon A, Littorin M, Tinnerberg H, Lindh CH, Zheng H, Ghalali A, Stenius U, Jönsson BAG, Högberg J. Toluene diisocyanate: Induction of the autotaxin-lysophosphatidic acid axis and its association with airways symptoms. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2015; 287:222-31. [PMID: 26072274 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2015.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2015] [Revised: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Diisocyanates are industrial chemicals which have a wide range of applications in developed and developing countries. They are notorious lung toxicants and respiratory sensitizers. However, the mechanisms behind their adverse effects are not adequately characterized. Autotaxin (ATX) is an enzyme producing lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), and the ATX-LPA axis has been implicated in lung related inflammatory conditions and diseases, including allergic asthma, but not to toxicity of environmental low-molecular-weight chemicals. We investigated effects of toluene diisocyanate (TDI) on ATX induction in human lung epithelial cell models, and we correlated LPA-levels in plasma to biomarkers of TDI exposure in urine collected from workers exposed to <5ppb (parts per billion). Information on workers' symptoms was collected through interviews. One nanomolar TDI robustly induced ATX release within 10min in vitro. A P2X7- and P2X4-dependent microvesicle formation was implicated in a rapid ATX release and a subsequent protein synthesis. Co-localization between purinergic receptors and ATX was documented by immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy. The release was modulated by monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and by extracellular ATP. In workers, we found a dose-response relationship between TDI exposure biomarkers in urine and LPA levels in plasma. Among symptomatic workers reporting "sneezing", the LPA levels were higher than among non-symptomatic workers. This is the first report indicating induction of the ATX-LPA axis by an environmental low-molecular-weight chemical, and our data suggest a role for the ATX-LPA axis in TDI toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia M Broström
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, SE 221 85 Lund, Sweden
| | - Zhi-Wei Ye
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Box 210, SE 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Axmon
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, SE 221 85 Lund, Sweden
| | - Margareta Littorin
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, SE 221 85 Lund, Sweden
| | - Håkan Tinnerberg
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, SE 221 85 Lund, Sweden
| | - Christian H Lindh
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, SE 221 85 Lund, Sweden
| | - Huiyuan Zheng
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Box 210, SE 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Aram Ghalali
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Box 210, SE 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulla Stenius
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Box 210, SE 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bo A G Jönsson
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, SE 221 85 Lund, Sweden
| | - Johan Högberg
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Box 210, SE 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
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