Arsenic: toxicity, oxidative stress and human disease

Equipotent bisphenol S and bisphenol F with widely differing modes of action exhibit additive effects in immunotoxicity: insights based on intrinsic immunity, apoptosis and regeneration, and oxidative stress

Bisphenol S (BPS) and Bisphenol F (BPF), as alternatives to bisphenol A (BPA), are recognized for their endocrine-disrupting properties, but their combined immune toxicity mechanisms remain poorly understood. This study systematically evaluates the individual and joint immune toxicity effects of BPS and BPF through ADMET predictions, transgenic zebrafish models, and molecular docking analyses. The results indicate that equal effect concentration BPS and BPF act through distinct immune pathways: BPS primarily targets macrophages to mediate immune responses, while BPF significantly stimulates neutrophil proliferation and induces a stronger inflammatory response through chemokine signaling. Molecular docking studies show that BPF binds more stably to pro-apoptotic protein Mapk8 and oxidative stress-related protein Hsp90aa1, leading to significantly higher levels of apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared to BPS. The similarity of modes of action (MOA)between BPS and BPF based on relevant immune indicators calculated and experimentally is about 0.3; this quantitative result also proves that modes of action differ widely. Nonetheless, most of the indicators showed superimposed effects in the combined experiments, and it is noteworthy that the oxidative stress indicators (SOD, MDA) showed synergistic effects, suggesting that BPS and BPF, which have very different modes of action, are able to be risk assessed using an additive model with respect to immunity, but may exhibit synergistic risks with respect to oxidative stress. This research demonstrates that BPS and BPF induce immune toxicity via different molecular targets and pathways and highlights the need to account for their synergistic effects in risk assessments. These findings provide important insights into the immune toxicity mechanisms of BPA substitutes and the potential risks of combined exposures.

Arsenic-Induced Inflammatory Response via ROS-Dependent Activation of ERK/NF-kB Signaling Pathways: Protective Role of Natural Polyphenol Tannic Acid

Arsenic (As), a highly toxic metalloid, is present throughout our environment as a result of both natural and human-related activities. Furthermore, As exposure could lead to a persistent inflammatory response, which may facilitate the pathogenesis of several diseases in various organs. This study was performed to investigate the As-induced inflammatory response and the underlying molecular mechanisms in vitro. Further, the anti-inflammatory effects of a natural dietary polyphenol tannic acid (TA) were also explored. In human normal bronchial (BEAS-2B), adenocarcinoma alveolar basal (A549), and murine macrophages (J774) cell lines, a trivalent form of As (as As3+) exposure markedly induced the expression of various pro-inflammatory mediators (cytokines and chemokines). Additionally, it was found that As3+ exposure induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and activation of the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) p65 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 pathways in BEAS-2B cells. As expected, the blockade of either ERK1/2 (PD98059) or NF-kB p65 (IMD0354), or both pathways attenuated As3+-induced pro-inflammatory mediators release. Interestingly, pre-treatment with ROS inhibitor N-acetylcysteine (NAC) attenuated activation of ERK/NF-kB pathways, suggesting that ROS have a critical role in pathway's activation and subsequent inflammatory response. Further, TA pre-treatment effectively attenuated As3+-induced inflammatory response by suppressing ROS production and ERK/NF-kB signaling pathways activation. Therefore, this study provides scientific evidence for the anti-inflammatory activities of TA and the underlying molecular mechanisms.

A paper-based visual colorimetric platform for rapid detection of arsenic in the environment

Arsenic is a highly toxic heavy metal that poses significant environmental and health risks. Major sources of arsenic pollution include wastewater and waste discharges from industrial and mining activities, as well as arsenic-containing pesticides and herbicides used in agriculture. This study employed the arsenic spot method, utilizing test strips prepared with mercury bromide as a reactive sensor, to conduct semi-quantitative detection of inorganic arsenic in water, soil, and oil field chemicals used in oil extraction processes. Detection was performed through colorimetric analysis. Experimental results revealed the following detection limits for the test strip: 0.05 mg L-1 for water samples, 0.25 mg L-1 for soil samples, and 0.05 mg L-1 for water-soluble oil field chemicals. The detection results aligned with those obtained via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, confirming the reliability of the method. Consequently, the arsenic spot colorimetry technique is a rapid and effective tool for the semi-quantitative determination of inorganic arsenic in various samples, significantly reducing analysis time.

Global soil pollution by toxic metals threatens agriculture and human health

Toxic metal pollution is ubiquitous in soils, yet its worldwide distribution is unknown. We analyzed a global database of soil pollution by arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, nickel, and lead at 796,084 sampling points from 1493 regional studies and used machine learning techniques to map areas with exceedance of agricultural and human health thresholds. We reveal a previously unrecognized high-risk, metal-enriched zone in low-latitude Eurasia, which is attributed to influential climatic, topographic, and anthropogenic conditions. This feature can be regarded as a signpost for the Anthropocene era. We show that 14 to 17% of cropland is affected by toxic metal pollution globally and estimate that between 0.9 and 1.4 billion people live in regions of heightened public health and ecological risks.

The Rise of Chalcohalide Solar Cells: Comprehensive Insights From Materials to Devices

While lead-halide perovskites achieve high efficiencies, their toxicity and instability drive the search for safer materials. Chalcohalides, combining chalcogen and halogen anions in versatile structures, emerge as earth-abundant, nontoxic alternatives for efficient photovoltaic (PV) devices. A wide variety of chalcohalide materials, including pnictogen metals-, post-transition metals-, mixed-metals- and organic-inorganic metals-based chalcohalides, offer diverse structural, compositional, and optoelectronic characteristics. Some of these materials have already been experimentally synthesized and integrated into PV devices, achieving efficiencies of 4-6%, while others remain theoretically predicated. Despite these advancements, significant challenges must be addressed to fully realize the potential of chalcohalides as next-generation PV absorbers. This review provides a comprehensive insight of the fundamental properties of chalcohalide materials, emphasizing their unique structures, highly interesting optoelectronic and dielectric properties, to fuel further research and guide the development of high-efficiency chalcohalide solar cells. Various synthesis techniques are discussed, highlighting important and potentially overlooked strategies for fabricating complex quaternary and pentanary chalcohalide materials. Additionally, the working principles of different device structures and recent advances in fabricating efficient chalcohalide solar cells are covered. We hope that this review inspires further exciting research, innovative approaches, and breakthroughs in the field of chalcohalide materials.

Associations of exposure to arsenic species and endogenous sex hormones with oral cancer: a hospital-based study in Southeastern China

The effects of arsenic species and endogenous sex hormones on oral cancer risk, particularly their molecular interactions, have been infrequently reported. This study aimed to assess the individual and combined effects of arsenic species and endogenous sex hormones on oral cancer risk and elucidate the association between hormones, arsenic species, and arsenic metabolism. A case-control study (comprising 144 cases and 144 controls) was conducted from January 2020 to January 2024 in Southeastern China. Serum levels of six arsenic species and nine endogenous sex hormones were measured using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-ICP-MS) and ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-HRMS), respectively. After adjusting for potential confounders, Logistic regression showed that high exposure levels of inorganic arsenic (IAs) (adjusted OR [aOR] and 95 %CI: 0.00[0.00,0.44] and 0.45[0.25,0.78]) and Cortisone (aOR and 95 %CI: 0.16[0.07,0.35] and 0.19[0.10,0.37]) were associated with reduced oral cancer risk, both as continuous and categorical variables. Serum Melatonin, Cortisone, and Testosterone levels correlated with partial arsenic species, while Cortisone and Melatonin were linked to arsenic methylation metabolic indexes (spearman's test P < 0.05). Quantile g-computation analysis revealed that Corticosterone and Cortisone had the largest positive and negative weights on oral cancer risk, respectively (weights = 0.640 and 0.525). The combined effect of arsenic species and hormones on oral cancer was protective (β and 95 %CI: 0.36(-0.05,-0.67)), with slight gender differences. Independent of other arsenic species and hormone levels, Cortisone exhibited a protective effect against oral cancer in BKMR analysis. Additionally, an interaction effect between Melatonin and other arsenic species was also observed. In summary, Serum IAs and Cortisone were negatively associated with oral cancer, while Corticosterone showed a positive association. Further cohort studies are needed to confirm and elucidate these mechanisms.

Predator-Prey Model for Simulating the Genetic Carcinogenicity of Aggressive Toxicant-Related Cancer

The mechanism of how toxicant exposure leads to aggressive tumors remains unresolved. A genetic-based hypothesis predicts that under stress, the transcription of growth-related genes will be inhibited by the activation of mitogenic pathways, redirecting energy toward stress response and increasing survival. This hypothesis fails to explain why epidemiological data suggest that growth and stress response are activated, as patients exposed to toxicants exhibit more aggressive growth than nonexposed individuals. This co-occurrence requires increased energy availability to prevent the activation of mitogenic pathways, as seen in the Warburg effect. We hypothesize that if pollutant effects cease, it might drive aggressive cancer, as excess energy that is no longer used for stress response can fuel rapid growth. We model this allocation between growth and stress response as a trophic competition using the Lotka-Volterra equations and using as input RNA-Seq data from growth- and stress-related genes obtained from cancer cells exposed to copper, cadmium, and carboplatin. Our findings suggest that the energy allocation to growth and its rate of allocation is higher in exposed than nonexposed tumors and results in overgrowth in unexposed cells. This study helps to understand how certain scenarios, such as partial or total cessation of exposure, in toxicant-related cancer can drive cancer aggressiveness.

Unveiling the Toxic Mechanism of Arsenic on the Spleen of Cyprinus carpio and the Antagonistic Role of Zinc via the P38 MAPK/Nrf2/HO- 1 Pathway

Arsenic (As), a prevalent heavy metal, poses significant risks to the immune systems of living organisms. The spleen is considered one of the major immune organs of As-poisoned aquatic organisms. Zinc (Zn), known for its antioxidant and detoxification properties, may alleviate As-induced immune organ damage, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. The P38 MAPK/Nrf2/HO- 1 signaling pathway is a crucial endogenous antioxidant pathway that protects organs and acts against cellular oxidative damage. This experiment was designed to investigate the splenic toxicity induced by As in carp and to evaluate the hypothesis that Zn alleviates oxidative stress and inflammatory injury induced by As via the P38 MAPK/Nrf2/HO- 1 signaling pathway. In the experiment, the spleen of the arsenic-exposed group exhibited significant endoplasmic reticulum dilation, formation of apoptotic bodies, and perinuclear cisternae, preliminarily confirming that As can cause severe tissue damage in the spleen of carp. Additionally, the transcriptional activity and protein synthesis of genes related to inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and apoptosis were significantly dysregulated. Notably, Zn supplementation significantly mitigated As-induced damage by enhancing antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD, GSH) and suppressing key mediators of stress and apoptosis (Nrf2, NF-κB, PERK, HSP60, and caspases). Additionally, Zn supplementation has been shown to mitigate As-induced spleen injury and associated pathological alterations, including inflammation and necrosis. These findings reveal, for the first time, that Zn alleviates As-induced spleen injury through the P38 MAPK/Nrf2/HO- 1 pathway, providing new insights into the detoxification mechanism of Zn and its potential application in mitigating heavy metal toxicity in aquaculture.

The links between soil and water pollution and cardiovascular disease

Soil and water pollution represent significant threats to global health, ecosystems, and biodiversity. Healthy soils underpin terrestrial ecosystems, supporting food production, biodiversity, water retention, and carbon sequestration. However, soil degradation jeopardizes the health of 3.2 billion people, while over 2 billion live in water-stressed regions. Pollution of soil, air, and water is a leading environmental cause of disease, contributing to over 9 million premature deaths annually. Soil contamination stems from heavy metals, synthetic chemicals, pesticides, and plastics, driven by industrial activity, agriculture, and waste mismanagement. These pollutants induce oxidative stress, inflammation, and hormonal disruption, significantly increasing risks for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular disease (CVD). Emerging contaminants like micro- and nanoplastics amplify health risks through cellular damage, oxidative stress, and cardiovascular dysfunction. Urbanization and climate change exacerbate soil degradation through deforestation, overfertilization, and pollution, further threatening ecosystem sustainability and human health. Mitigation efforts, such as reducing chemical exposure, adopting sustainable land-use practices, and advancing urban planning, have shown promise in lowering pollution-related health impacts. Public health initiatives, stricter pollution controls, and lifestyle interventions, including antioxidant-rich diets, can also mitigate risks. Pollution remains preventable, as demonstrated by high-income nations implementing cost-effective solutions. Policies like the European Commission's Zero-Pollution Vision aim to reduce pollution to safe levels by 2050, promoting sustainable ecosystems and public health. Addressing soil pollution is critical to combating the global burden of NCDs, particularly CVDs, and fostering a healthier environment for future generations.

Arabidopsis thaliana Oxoprolinase 1 (AtOXP1) maintains glutamate homeostasis, promotes arsenite and mercury tolerance, and reduces accumulation in plants

Glutathione (GSH) plays a crucial role in cellular redox regulation and enhancing plant survival under heavy metal toxicity. In plants, GSH homeostasis is managed through the γ-glutamyl cycle, though the genes involved in GSH degradation and recycling are not fully understood. Here, we have characterized the Arabidopsis oxoprolinase 1 (AtOXP1) gene for its role in providing tolerance to arsenite (AsIII) and mercury (Hg) stress. The oxp1 T-DNA mutants showed severe sensitivity to Hg, with significantly lower shoot (~40%) and root (~86%) biomass compared with WT. The mutants accumulated ~45% higher arsenic and Hg accumulation in shoots. The oxp1 mutants also had elevated GSH (2.3-4.0 folds) and oxoproline (5-OP) levels (96%-265%) compared with Col-0 under control and stress conditions. The mutants showed significantly (15%-78%) lower glutamate levels than Col-0 under metal stress. Conversely, relative to WT, AtOXP1 overexpression (OE) lines had significantly higher biomass (18%-43% more) and reduced As (40%) and Hg (19%-35%) accumulation in the shoots. Compared with Col-6, the AtOXP1 OE lines had significantly (44%-57%) lower buildup of GSH levels under both AsIII and Hg treatment. Isotopic analysis revealed that the oxp1 mutants had 29% higher 15N-Glu/Total Glu compared to WT, while OE lines were similar to WT. Additionally, OE lines had significantly higher shoot (15%-22%) and root (~77%) biomass under low nitrogen conditions. The results demonstrate that OXP1 is involved in Glu recycling via GSH degradation and holds the potential to improve plant productivity and reduce toxic metal(loid)s accumulation for food safety.

Are Hair Scalp Trace Elements Correlated with Atherosclerosis Location in Coronary Artery Disease?

Coronary artery disease is among the leading current epidemiological challenges. The genetic, clinical, and lifestyle-related risk factors are well documented. The reason for specific epicardial artery locations remains unsolved. The coronary artery topography and blood flow characteristics may induce local inflammatory activation. The atherosclerotic plaque formation is believed to represent inflammatory response involving enzymatic processes co-factored by trace elements. The possible relation between trace elements and coronary artery disease location was the subject of the study. There were 175 patients (107 (61) men and 68 (39) females) in a median (Q1-3) age of 71 years (65-76) admitted for coronary angiography due to chronic coronary syndrome. The angiographic results focused on the percentage of lumen stenosis in certain arteries and were compared with the results for hair scalp trace elements. The correlation between left main coronary artery atherosclerotic plaques and nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn), and antimony (Sb) hair scalp concentration was noted. The analysis revealed a positive relation between left descending artery disease and chromium (Cr), sodium (Na), arsenic (As), and molybdenum (Mo) and a negative correlation with strontium (Sr). The atherosclerotic lesion in the circumflex artery revealed correlations in our analysis with sodium (Na), potassium (K), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), arsenic (As), and negative with strontium (Sr) (r) hair scalp concentrations. The negative correlations between right coronary artery disease and magnesium (Mg) and strontium (Sr) concentrations were noted. The possible explanation of different epicardial artery involvement and severity by atherosclerotic processes may lay in their topography and blood rheological characteristics that induce different inflammatory reactions co0factored by specific trace elements. The trace element concentration in the hair scalp may correlate with a particular coronary atherosclerotic involvement, including the severity of lumen reduction. This may indicate the missing link between the pathophysiological processes of atherosclerosis development and its location in coronary arteries.

Environmental pollutants and rectal cancer: The impact of water contamination

BACKGROUND

Water is a fundamental resource for life, and exposure to water contamination has far-reaching implications for an increased risk of tumor diseases.

METHODS

Studies of rectal and colorectal cancer related to water contamination were identified from the published literature in the PUBMED databases from 2010 to 2024.

RESULTS

This review provides a critical analysis of the current evidence, summarizing the association of water contamination, including industrial waste, pesticides, heavy metals, with rectal and colorectal cancer. It highlights their impact on rectal and colorectal cancer progression by underlying processes of DNA damage, chronic inflammation, and microbial contamination.

CONCLUSION

Rectal cancer is a significant global health concern with a strong association between environmental pollutants in water sources and increased incidence of rectal cancer. It is vital to identify how waster pollutants influence the development and progression of rectal cancer and formulate targeted preventive approaches and social interventions to decrease the disease's impact.

Therapeutic implication of oxidative stress-induced growth inhibitor 1 (OSGIN1) in cancer

Oxidative stress is an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in redox signaling that regulate various pathogenesis and cellular functions. Although advances in technology provide further knowledge for biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets of oxidative stress, it is still needed to validate them to apply in clinical relevance, diagnostics, and therapeutics. With these backgrounds, a clinical understanding of biomarkers and molecular mechanisms has been emphasized. In this review, we describe oxidative stress-induced growth inhibitor 1 (OSGIN1), an oxidative stress response protein. Previous findings have provided evidence implicating the function of oxidative stress-dependent and -independent response in numerous chronic diseases and cancers. However, the functions and roles of OSGIN1 in tumorigenesis have not been appreciated yet. We highlight the cellular processes and functions dependent on the expression of OSGIN1 isoforms as well as the regulation of its expression by various cellular signaling pathways, especially in cancer. This review will provide an overview of the clinical significance and molecular mechanisms of OSGIN1.

Mechanism of arsenic-induced liver injury in rats revealed by metabolomics and ionomics based approach

Arsenic (As) is an environmental toxicant and human carcinogen, long-term exposure to As can lead to varying degrees of liver injury. In this study, the liver injury model of As poisoned Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats was established, and the potential mechanism was investigated by metabonomics and ionomics. A total of 164 differential expressed metabolites (DEMs) were identified between the As poisoned group and the control group, which mainly involved in nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism, steroid hormone biosynthesis, taurine and hypotaurine metabolism, and porphyrin metabolism. The levels of 10 ions were significantly increased in As poisoned group, including As, bismuth (Bi), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), manganese (Mn), rubidium (Rb), antimony (Sb), strontium (Sr), uranium(U), and zinc (Zn), in contrast, the levels of lead (Pb) and thallium (TI) were significantly decreased. Spearman correlation analysis showed that As, Cd, Hg and Pb were negatively correlated with androstenedione, protoporphyrinogen IX and estriol, whereas As and Mn was positively correlated with progesterone (PROG), Cd was positively correlated with NAD+ and 3-Sulfino-L-alanine. There are sex differences in changes in metabolites and ions levels. Male and female rats shared 60 DEMs and 2 pathways (steroid hormone biosynthesis and porphyrin metabolism pathway). The levels of As, Cd, Hg, and Sr were significantly changed in both male and female rats. In both female and male rats, As was positively correlated with PROG, and Cd was positively correlated with coproporphyrin III. The results of this study provide new insights to elucidate the mechanism of As-induced liver injury in rats.

Association of whole blood heavy metal concentrations with kidney function

Relatively elevated concentrations of arsenic, lead, and mercury are toxic to the kidneys. However, it is unknown whether kidney function is influenced by these metals in the general population without kidney diseases and without known exposure to these metals. We did a retrospective analysis of data collected from 58,864 outpatients in Germany from January 2014 to October 2022 undergoing measurements of arsenic, lead, and mercury. Routine clinical laboratory parameters were entered into the database if they were analyzed in the same patient within +/- four weeks of the metal analysis. The estimated glomerular filter rate (eGFR) was calculated using the 2021 CKD-EPI equation. The mean age of the study participants was 50.3 ± 17.1, of which 61.8% were women. Complete blood count, CRP, fasting glucose, liver and lipid values, and thyroid function parameters were within the normal range. Median (IQR) eGFR level was 92.14 (79.44-103.85) mL/min/1.73m2. Median (IQR) whole blood values for arsenic were 0.8 (0.4-1.5) µg/l, median (IQR) level for lead was 13.6 (9.5-19.5) µg/l, median (IQR) values for mercury were 0.8 (0.3-1.5) µg/l in whole blood. Arsenic (r= -0.131, p < 0.001, N = 11,211), lead (r = 0.318, p < 0.001, N = 21,733), and mercury (r= -0.149, p < 0.001, N = 22,670) levels correlate all inversely with eGFR. When plotting eGFR against whole blood metal concentrations, no lower safety thresholds were found. Multivariate analysis, considering age, sex, CRP, and fasting glucose as confounding factors, confirmed findings of independent associations of arsenic, lead, and mercury on eGFR. Subgroup analysis revealed that this inverse relationship was particularly pronounced in the lowest age tertile of all study participants. Concentrations of arsenic, lead, and mercury correlated independently inversely with eGFR in a German cohort that largely had a normal kidney function with no known exposure to heavy metals.

Exploring the impact of environmental factors on male reproductive health through epigenetics

Male infertility has become an increasingly severe global health issue, with its incidence significantly rising over the past few decades. This paper delves into the crucial role of epigenetics in male reproductive health, focusing particularly on the effects of DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodeling and non-coding RNAs regulation on spermatogenesis. Exposure to various environmental factors can cause sperm DNA damage, leading to epigenetic abnormalities. Among these factors, we have discussed heavy metals (including Zinc, Cadmium, Arsenic, Copper), phthalates, electromagnetic radiation, and temperature in detail. Notably, aberrations in DNA methylation are closely associated with various symptoms of male infertility, and histone modifications and chromatin remodeling are essential for sperm maturation and function. By synthesizing existing literature and experimental data, this narrative review investigates how environmental factors influence male reproductive health through epigenetic mechanisms, thus providing new theoretical foundations and practical guidelines for the early diagnosis and treatment of male infertility.

Protective Effects of Lactoferrin Treatment Against Sodium Arsenite Exposure-Induced Nephrotoxicity

It is said that a wide range of renal functions are at risk from arsenic exposure. We examined how lactoferrin administration may mitigate inflammation, apoptosis, redox imbalance, and fibrosis in order to counteract arsenic-induced nephrotoxicity. Accordingly, male C57BL/6 mice (6 weeks) were divided into six experimental groups with six mice in each group. The first and second groups were intragastrically administered normal saline and sodium arsenite (NaAsO2) at 5 mg/kg body weight concentrations as the negative control (NC) and NaAsO2 groups. The third, fourth, and fifth groups were intragastrically administered lactoferrin at concentrations of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg body weight in addition to NaAsO2 at concentrations of 5 mg/kg body weight. The sixth group was intragastrically administered lactoferrin at a concentration of 200 mg/kg body weight with the experimental group set as the lactoferrin group. After daily drug administration for 4 weeks, the lactoferrin concentrations were optimized based on the results of renal index and renal function. Histopathological, biochemical, and gene expression analyses were performed to evaluate the status of renal tissue architecture, redox imbalance, inflammation, apoptosis, and fibrosis to confirm the alleviative effect of lactoferrin treatment against the NaAsO2 exposure-induced nephrotoxicity. The results confirmed that the 200 mg/kg lactoferrin treatment mitigated these arsenic effects and maintained the normal renal frameworks. Conclusively, disrupting the renal redox balance and triggering inflammation, apoptosis, along with fibrosis is a milieu that arsenic, robustly exerts its nephrotoxic effect. Lactoferrin, probably by its direct and indirect control mechanism on these said pathways, can mitigate the nephrotoxicity and preserve the normal renal health.

Biomonitoring and Health Risk Assessment of Arsenic Contamination in Drinking Water among Rural Residents in Western Tehran

Arsenic is a widespread environmental contaminant that poses a significant threat to global health due to its toxicity and carcinogenicity. Given the high levels of arsenic found in the drinking water of western areas of Tehran, the objective of this study was to analyze levels of arsenic in multiple biological samples (blood, hair, and nails) collected from residents living in these areas. This cross-sectional study was conducted over three weeks in November 2022 in five villages. A total of 67 residents from these villages were included in the exposure group. Analysis of arsenic was carried out by using the Perkin Elmer Optima 8000 ICP-OES instrument coupled with the FIAS 100 flow injection module after sample digestion. The average concentration of arsenic in people's blood was 4.19 μg/l, which exceeds the standard limit of ATSDR (1 μg/l) by about 4 times. Additionally, 47.8% of blood samples exceeded the standard, while for nail and hair samples, the percentages were 22.4% and 13.4%, respectively. Water samples showed the highest percentage above the standard, with 67.2%. There is no significant relationship between arsenic levels in drinking water, hair and blood. However, a significant positive correlation was observed between the concentration of arsenic in drinking water and nail samples. The mean of hazard quotient (HQ) and carcinogenic risk (CR) indices of arsenic in drinking water suggest that the daily intake levels of the examined arsenic in the study area exceeded the acceptable thresholds ((HQ < 1) and (CR < 1 × 10-4)). Although this study demonstrated elevated arsenic exposure among the population in western Tehran, our findings showed no significant correlation between arsenic concentrations in drinking water and biological samples. Therefore, further research is required to identify other potential exposure pathways and develop targeted intervention strategies. Additionally, remediation measures to improve water quality remain essential in this rural area.

Placental Ferroptosis May Be Involved in Prenatal Arsenic Exposure Induced Cognitive Impairment in Offspring

The association between prenatal arsenic (As) exposure and offspring's cognition is still unclear, and the underlying etiology has also not been elucidated. Based on the Ma'anshan Birth Cohort (MABC) study in China, 1814 mother-child pairs were included in this study, and the association of As levels in cord serum with preschoolers' intelligence scores was explored. To validate the results from population study, in vivo models were adopted to observe the association between prenatal As exposure and spatial learning and memory abilities of mice offsprings. The As-exposure induced ferroptosis in the placenta of human beings as well as C57BL/6 J mice and HTR-8/SVneo cells was explored in order to clarify the potential cause of impairment of offspring's cognition related to As exposure, respectively. In the population study, we observed a significant inverse association between natural logarithm transformed (ln) As levels and preschoolers' intelligence scores, especially for the fluid reasoning index (FRI) [(β (95%CI): - 1.07 (- 1.98, - 0.16)] and working memory index (WMI) [β (95%CI): - 1.51 (- 2.76, - 0.25)]. Meanwhile, the data from in vivo models revealed that the learning and memory abilities of offspring mice decreased after prenatal As exposure. The occurrence of ferroptosis-like characteristics in the placenta and HTR-8/SVneo cells after As exposure was observed, accompanying with evident oxidative stress, iron accumulation, mitochondrial damage, and decreased protein levels of GPX4, xCT, and FTH1 (or FPN1). Notably, the ferroptosis-like alterations induced by NaAsO2 can be effectively alleviated by N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) treatment in HTR-8/SVneo cells, respectively. In conclusion, prenatal As exposure associates with impairment of offspring's cognition, and placental ferroptosis may be involved in the association. Further studies are needed to confirm the findings.

Arsenite-induced liver apoptosis via oxidative stress and the MAPK signaling pathway in marine medaka

Arsenic (As) is widely recognized for its hazards to aquatic organisms; however, its toxicological impacts on apoptosis in marine fish remain inadequately explored. This study investigated the effects of in vivo dietary exposure to 50 or 500 mg/kg AsIII (as NaAsO2) over 28 days in marine medaka, alongside in vitro exposure to 50-750 μg/L AsIII for 48 h in a hepatic cell line derived from marine medaka, to elucidate the toxicity and underlying molecular mechanisms. In vivo, As significantly accumulated in liver tissue (1.79-fold compared to the control), causing hepatic lesions and increased apoptosis (4.85 ± 0.56 % and 9.29 ± 1.82 %, respectively). Gene expression analysis showed downregulation of bcl2l1 and upregulation of bax, caspase-3 and caspase-9, indicating mitochondrial pathway-mediated apoptosis. In vitro, As exposure induced hepatocyte morphological changes, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and apoptosis. Additionally, mapk1 and mapk3 (ERK pathway) were downregulated both in vivo and in vitro, while mapk14a (P38 pathway), mapk8b and mapk9 (JNK pathway) were upregulated exclusively in hepatocytes. Furthermore, n-acetyl cysteine (NAC) attenuated As-induced apoptosis and modulated the expression of MAPK signaling pathway genes, including mapk3 and mapk8b, suggesting that As-induced oxidative stress regulates apoptosis via the MAPK signaling pathway. In contrast, phenylbutyric acid (PBA) was ineffective in preventing apoptosis. Overall, these results demonstrate that As induces endogenous apoptosis through oxidative stress and the MAPK signaling pathway in marine medaka.

Determination of arsenic speciation of arsenic in squid and its human consumption risk

Arsenic species were quantified to further explore the biotransformation of arsenic and better explain the potential health risks. In this research, the levels of six arsenic species (AsB, AsC, MMA, DMA, As3+, and As5+) were determined in 160 squid samples by HPLC-ICP-MS. AsB was the most predominant speciation in squid tissues. The arsenic species, including AsB, AsC, and MMA, were found in all samples, followed by DMA (49.38%), As3+ (21.25%), and As5+ (2.5%). Results indicated squid samples from offshore had higher levels of AsB, AsC, MMA, and DMA. Pearson's correlation analysis found correlations between As-MMA, DMA-As5+, and AsB-MMA, which showed a clear methylation pathway. The levels of inorganic arsenic were below the standard, and no potential health risks were identified. Therefore, the application of total arsenic in our previous study to assess health risks may be biased. In future, there is a need to optimize food safety monitoring of arsenic and comprehensively grasp the basic status and change law of marine ecological environment.

Bioaccumulation and biomagnification of arsenic in the muscle and liver of the speckled guitarfish Pseudobatos glaucostigmus in Santa Rosalía, Gulf of California, Mexico

Arsenic (As) concentrations were measured in the muscle and liver of the speckled guitarfish Pseudobatos glaucostigmus and its main prey Penaeus californiensis, in Santa Rosalia, western Gulf of California, to determine bioaccumulation and biomagnification. Higher mean wet weight (w.w.) values were found in muscle tissue (9.87 μg g-1) compared to liver tissue (5.32 μg g-1); however, the highest concentrations were found in the liver (48.05 μg g-1). All samples showed As concentrations above the maximum permissible limit for human consumption. The highest concentrations in mature females (muscle: 6.93 μg g-1; liver: 14.5 μg g-1) concerning pregnant females (muscle: 5.01 μg g-1; liver: 8.46 μg g-1) may indicate a maternal transfer of As from mothers to their embryos. Arsenic bioaccumulates in the liver, which was evident from the positive correlation between total length and As concentration. Arsenic levels in Penaeus californiensis showed biomagnification from prey to predator for both tissues.

Diurnal and daily fluctuations in levels of the urinary oxidative stress marker 8-hydroxyguanosine in spot urine samples

BACKGROUND

Urinary 8-hydroxyguanosine (8-OHGuo) levels serve as a biomarker for oxidative stress and hydroxyl radical-induced RNA damage. Evaluating the diurnal and daily fluctuations in urinary 8-OHGuo excretion levels is essential for understanding its implications. However, research in this area remains limited. In this study, we aim to investigate the diurnal and daily fluctuations in 8-OHGuo levels as well as the factors that influence these variations, using spot urine samples.

METHODS

Urine samples were collected from seven healthy participants during each urination from the time of awakening until 24:00 h to evaluate diurnal variations. To assess daily fluctuations, urine samples were collected from 18 healthy participants at the time of awakening for 23 consecutive days. The urinary 8-OHGuo levels were measured using an HPLC-ECD method.

RESULTS

No significant variations were observed in the diurnal levels of urinary 8-OHGuo among non-smokers. Conversely, the daily variation of 8-OHGuo in the urine of the smoker was significant, with a coefficient of variation of 18.71%. Each individual maintained a characteristic value despite some diurnal fluctuations. Furthermore, the daily levels of 8-OHGuo exhibited a range of variations influenced by lifestyle factors, including mental state, sleep duration, smoking, menstrual cycle, and dietary habits.

CONCLUSION

As a specific marker of RNA oxidation, 8-OHGuo provides unique insights distinct from those provided by the widely used DNA oxidation marker 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine as an indicator of oxidative stress. Urinary 8-OHGuo could serve as a valuable biomarker for managing and preventing oxidative stress-related diseases, provided that the specific range of daily variations is established. The high daily variation in urinary 8-OHGuo levels necessitates the use of multiple samples to accurately determine individual levels. However, further research with large sample sizes will help to validate these findings.

Could the Effect of Arsenic on the Testis be Reversed after Removing the Insult? A Meta-analysis Study

Arsenic in drinking water has been associated with an increased risk of health concerns. This metalloid is ingested and distributed throughout the body, accumulating in several organs, including the testis. In this organ, arsenic disturbs steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis and affects male fertility. Although testicular impairment induced by arsenic is well documented, it is still controversial whether such disturbance remains days after the removal of arsenic insult. Therefore, we used a meta-analytical approach to evaluate the magnitude of arsenic effects on testicular parameters and verify whether a withdrawal period can mitigate these alterations. The search terms 'testis" and 'arsenic' were used in PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. A total of 1,217 articles were obtained from the literature search, and 73 articles were included in this meta-analysis. Our results showed that arsenic negatively affected hormone synthesis and secretion, testicular weight, tubular and intertubular morphometry, and daily sperm production 24 h after ending exposure. Arsenic inhibited antioxidant enzyme activity, culminating in high oxidative metabolite production and apoptosis occurrence. Most of these effects were not observed in the testis between eight and fifty days after arsenic withdrawal, remaining endocrine dysregulation and oxidative metabolite production. Sodium arsenite was the most toxic compound to the testis at subchronic exposure. These findings shed light on the plasticity and regenerative capacity of testicular interstitium and spermatogonial stem cell niche. However, sexual hormone imbalance remained after arsenic removal. This review evidenced the importance of understanding its toxicity's short- and long-term effects on male reproductive competence.

Heavy metals: toxicity and human health effects

Heavy metals are naturally occurring components of the Earth's crust and persistent environmental pollutants. Human exposure to heavy metals occurs via various pathways, including inhalation of air/dust particles, ingesting contaminated water or soil, or through the food chain. Their bioaccumulation may lead to diverse toxic effects affecting different body tissues and organ systems. The toxicity of heavy metals depends on the properties of the given metal, dose, route, duration of exposure (acute or chronic), and  extent of bioaccumulation. The detrimental impacts of heavy metals on human health are largely linked to their capacity to interfere with antioxidant defense mechanisms, primarily through their interaction with intracellular glutathione (GSH) or sulfhydryl groups (R-SH) of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), and other enzyme systems. Although arsenic (As) is believed to bind directly to critical thiols, alternative hydrogen peroxide production processes have also been postulated. Heavy metals are known to interfere with signaling pathways and affect a variety of cellular processes, including cell growth, proliferation, survival, metabolism, and apoptosis. For example, cadmium can affect the BLC-2 family of proteins involved in mitochondrial death via the overexpression of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 and the suppression of proapoptotic (BAX, BAK) mechanisms, thus increasing the resistance of various cells to undergo malignant transformation. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is an important regulator of antioxidant enzymes, the level of oxidative stress, and cellular resistance to oxidants and has been shown to act as a double-edged sword in response to arsenic-induced oxidative stress. Another mechanism of significant health threats and heavy metal (e.g., Pb) toxicity involves the substitution of essential metals (e.g., calcium (Ca), copper (Cu), and iron (Fe)) with structurally similar heavy metals (e.g., cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb)) in the metal-binding sites of proteins. Displaced essential redox metals (copper, iron, manganese) from their natural metal-binding sites can catalyze the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide via the Fenton reaction and generate damaging ROS such as hydroxyl radicals, causing damage to lipids, proteins, and DNA. Conversely, some heavy metals, such as cadmium, can suppress the synthesis of nitric oxide radical (NO·), manifested by altered vasorelaxation and, consequently, blood pressure regulation. Pb-induced oxidative stress has been shown to be indirectly responsible for the depletion of nitric oxide due to its interaction with superoxide radical (O2·-), resulting in the formation of a potent biological oxidant, peroxynitrite (ONOO-). This review comprehensively discusses the mechanisms of heavy metal toxicity and their health effects. Aluminum (Al), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), and chromium (Cr) and their roles in the development of gastrointestinal, pulmonary, kidney, reproductive, neurodegenerative (Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases), cardiovascular, and cancer (e.g. renal, lung, skin, stomach) diseases are discussed. A short account is devoted to the detoxification of heavy metals by chelation via the use of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), dimercaprol (BAL), 2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA), 2,3-dimercapto-1-propane sulfonic acid (DMPS), and penicillamine chelators.

Arsenic exposure and oxidative damage to lipid, DNA, and protein among general Chinese adults: A repeated-measures cross-sectional and longitudinal study

Arsenic-related oxidative stress and resultant diseases have attracted global concern, while longitudinal studies are scarce. To assess the relationship between arsenic exposure and systemic oxidative damage, we performed two repeated measures among 5236 observations (4067 participants) in the Wuhan-Zhuhai cohort at the baseline and follow-up after 3 years. Urinary total arsenic, biomarkers of DNA oxidative damage (8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG)), lipid peroxidation (8-isoprostaglandin F2alpha (8-isoPGF2α)), and protein oxidative damage (protein carbonyls (PCO)) were detected for all observations. Here we used linear mixed models to estimate the cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between arsenic exposure and oxidative damage. Exposure-response curves were constructed by utilizing the generalized additive mixed models with thin plate regressions. After adjusting for potential confounders, arsenic level was significantly and positively related to the levels of global oxidative damage and their annual increased rates in dose-response manners. In cross-sectional analyses, each 1% increase in arsenic level was associated with a 0.406% (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.379% to 0.433%), 0.360% (0.301% to 0.420%), and 0.079% (0.055% to 0.103%) increase in 8-isoPGF2α, 8-OHdG, and PCO, respectively. More importantly, arsenic was further found to be associated with increased annual change rates of 8-isoPGF2α (β: 0.147; 95% CI: 0.130 to 0.164), 8-OHdG (0.155; 0.118 to 0.192), and PCO (0.050; 0.035 to 0.064) in the longitudinal analyses. Our study suggested that arsenic exposure was not only positively related with global oxidative damage to lipid, DNA, and protein in cross-sectional analyses, but also associated with annual increased rates of these biomarkers in dose-dependent manners.

Facile colorimetric detection of As(V) in Rice with immobilized acid phosphatase on hollow metal-organic frameworks hybrid with peroxidase-like activity

Quantitative analysis of As(V) in rice is of great significance for food safety and heavy metal pollution control. Here, a facile colorimetric method for As(V) detection was constructed by using immobilized acid phosphatase (ACP) in hollow metal-organic frameworks hybrid. Metalloporphyrin and gold nanoparticles modified hollow zeolite imidazole framework-8 [Au/HZIF-8@TCPP(Fe)], named AuHT, was chosen here as ACP immobilizing carrier with peroxidase-like activity. Firstly, the morphology, structure, immobilization efficiency and catalytic ability of obtained AuHT@ACP were fully characterized. Then, based on the inhibition of As(V) on immobilized ACP and cascade reaction mediated by ACP and AuHT, a colorimetric biosensor was established with excellent simplicity. After comprehensive validation, this colorimetric method presented the advantages of wide linear range (10.0-1000.0 μg/L), low LOD (4.0 μg/L), nice accuracy (recovery of 93.7-109.6 %) and good selectivity. Finally, this method was applied to visual detection of As(V) in rice samples with different varieties.

Impact of oxidative stress induced by heavy metals on ovarian function

As a crucial organ of the female reproductive system, the ovary has both reproductive and endocrine functions. Oxidative stress refers to an increase in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), which play a role in the normal physiological activity of the ovary. However, excessive ROS can cause damage to the ovary. With the advancement of human industrial activities, heavy metal pollution has become increasingly severe. Heavy metals cause oxidative stress through both direct and indirect mechanisms, leading to changes in signal transduction pathways that damage the ovaries. This review aims to outline the adverse effects of oxidative stress on the ovaries triggered by heavy metals such as copper, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead. The detrimental effects of heavy metals on ovaries include follicular atresia and decreased estrogen production in experimental animals, and they also cause premature ovarian insufficiency in women. Additionally, this review discusses the role of antioxidants, provides some treatment methods, summarizes the limitations of current research, and offers perspectives for future research directions.

Essential and toxic metal concentrations in biological samples of multiple sclerosis patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The role of trace elements and toxic metals on human health has been extensively discussed concerning disease pathogenesis and risk factors of diseases. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to investigate arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and magnesium (Mg) levels in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) and healthy controls. We searched different databases/search engines for this systematic review and meta-analysis, including Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, until June 27, 2024. Out of 5466 studies identified, 65 met our eligibility criteria and were included in the systematic review. For the meta-analysis, 58 studies with 10420 participants (5316 multiple sclerosis patients and 5104 healthy controls) had adequate data for inclusion. Results from the pooled data, analyzed using a random-effects model, revealed higher levels of As (Hedge's g = 4.00 μg/l, 95% CI = 2.03 to 5.98, P <0.001; I2 = 97.69%, P<0.001) and Cd (Hedge's g = 1.20 μg/l, 95% CI = 0.13 to 2.27, P = 0.028; I2 = 97.99%, P<0.001) in multiple sclerosis patients compared to healthy ones. However, no significant differences were observed in the concentrations of Zn, Fe, Mg, and Pb between the two groups. This study identified elevated As and Cd levels in MS patients, indicating the need for targeted interventions and public health guidelines for toxic metal exposure. Limiting exposure to contaminated environments and maintaining essential element levels through natural resources or supplements is essential, as there may be a possible relationship between multiple sclerosis and the concentrations of these elements in humans.

Determining the priority control sources of heavy metals in the roadside soils in a typical industrial city of North China

Heavy metals (HMs) in roadside soils (RS) are closely related to urban ecosystem and human health, but priority control sources and eco-health risks of HMs remain unclear. We explored pollution sources of HMs using positive matrix factorization (PMF), scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), and random forest (RF), and assessed their source-specific eco-health risks. The combination of PMF, SEM-EDS and RF indicated that pollution sources of HMs were coal combustion (27.99 %), construction materials (30.15 %), and traffic emissions (41.86 %). SEM-EDS revealed RS particles were identified by a combination of physical (spherical, porous rounded, crustal flake, crustal rounded and irregular particles) and elemental surface characteristics (O, C, Si, Al, Fe, Ca, Mg, K, Zn, Cu, and Mn). RF highlighted road network density, residential density, and industrial density had significant importance influence on pollution sources. Approximately 72.35 % of soil samples were at a low ecological risk with traffic emissions being the major contributor. Non-carcinogenic risks had a minimal effect, but carcinogenic risks were at a cautionary level with coal combustion being the highest contributor. Overall, coal combustion and traffic emissions were regarded as priority control sources of HMs. These findings provided effective guidance for soil pollution prevention and risk control.

Arsenic-induced disruption of circadian rhythms and glutamine anaplerosis in human urothelial carcinoma

Inorganic arsenic (iAs)-induced urothelial carcinoma (UC) develops into a poor-prognosis malignancy. Arsenic-induced oxidative stress contributes to circadian rhythm disruption altered metabolism. Glutamine anaplerosis is a common metabolic feature of rapidly proliferating malignant cells, in which glutaminase (GLS) is a key enzyme in this process. Therefore, this study intends to determine if arsenic-induced oxidative stress can alter circadian rhythms and promote glutamine anaplerosis. Exonic expression of core circadian molecules (CLOCK, ARNTL, and NR1D1) and GLS in varying grades of UC were assessed using 423 bladder cancer samples from the TCGA Urothelial Bladder Cancer (BLCA) dataset. The levels of circadian proteins and metabolic markers in 44 UC patients from non-black foot disease (BFD) and BFD areas were detected by immunohistochemistry. In vitro and in vivo experiments elucidated the regulatory mechanisms of arsenic-mediated circadian disturbance and metabolic alteration. Public database analysis showed that ARNTL, NR1D1, and GLS exhibited greater expression in more high-grade UC. Strong immunoreactivity for BMAL1, GLS, and low levels of NR1D1 were found in malignant urothelial lesions, especially in arsenic-exposed UC. Arsenic-induced overexpression of BMAL1 and GLS involves activation of NADH: quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), continuously altering the NADH oscillations to promote glutamate metabolism in SV-HUC-1, T24 and BFTC-905 cells. These phenomenon were also demonstrated in the urothelium of arsenic-exposed animals. The present findings highlight the potential clinical significance of BMAL1 and GLS in UC in the BFD region. Furthermore, these results suggest that arsenic interferes with circadian rhythm and glutamine anaplerosis by NADH oscillatory imbalance in urothelial cells and urothelial cancer cells, predisposing them to malignant development.

Effects of tauroursodeoxycholate on arsenic-induced hepatic injury in mice: A comparative transcriptomic analysis

BACKGROUND

Prolonged exposure to excessive arsenic (As) and its compounds can cause damage to multiple systems, including respiratory, cardiovascular, immune, nervous, and endocrine systems. Manifestations include changes in skin pigmentation, excessive keratosis on palms and soles, gastrointestinal symptoms, and anemia. The liver as an important detoxification organ of the body, is a significant target organ for arsenic toxicity, and liver diseases are common. So far, the molecular mechanism has not been fully elucidated. Evidence suggests that taurodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) has a protective role in arsenic-induced liver injury. This study aims to reveal potential target genes at the transcriptional level following TUDCA intervention, providing insights for the intervention of arsenic-induced liver injury.

METHODS

The TUDCA intervention model of arsenic liver injury in C57BL/6 N mice was established. The experiment was divided into two phases and lasted for 24 weeks. The phase I trial (12 weeks) was divided into control, low, middle and high groups according to the dose of As. The phaseⅡtrial (12 weeks) was administered in combination with 10 mg/L sodium arsenite (the first stage high arsenic group) and TUDCA, so subsequent groups was named with H indicating high arsenic. Divide into four groups: control group(C), TUDCA solvent control group(H-Vehicle), TUDCA combined with As group(H-TUDCA), arsenic group (As). As was ingested through free water and TUDCA was administered to mice by gavage at a dose of 0.1 mL/10 g.b.w (100 mg/kg) once a day for 12 weeks. The differential expression gene (DEG) profile was obtained from the second batch of mouse liver tissues by RNA sequencing technology. Comparative transcriptomic analysis methods were used to identify co-varying DEGs between arsenic induction and TUDCA intervention, along with their associated pathways. QRT-PCR was utilized for validation.

RESULTS

Transcriptome results showed that 487 DEGs were identified after arsenic induction. TUDCA intervention identified 231 DEGs (p-values < 0.05 and | log2(fold change) | > 1). The comparison of "AS vs C" and "H_TUDCA vs AS" identified 65 covariant DEGs, and further screened the TUDCA pathways and related genes among these genes，six pathways and 11 genes (Ccl21a, Ccr7, Mdm2, Slc2a4, Akr1b7, Pnpla3, Dusp8, Hspa1a, Cyp7a1, Cybrd1, Trpm6) were obtained. Next, we screened for covariant DEGs among the top 50 potential hub genes in arsenic-induced DEGS, and obtained 7 (Hbb-bs, Hspa1a, Mdm2, Slc2a4, Ptk6, Egr1, and Dusp8). Finally, the intersection of Hub gene and pathway gene was selected as the target genes Dusp8, Hspa1a, Mdm2 and Slc2a4. The sequencing results showed that the mRNA expressions of Dusp8, Hspa1a and Mdm2 were significantly increased after arsenic induction, while the expression of Slc2a4 was significantly decreased (P<0.05). Conversely, TUDCA intervention reversed these DEGs changes, consistent with QRT-PCR validation results.

CONCLUSION

This study contributes to understanding the potential health effects of arsenic-induced liver injury, identifying new potential targets, and providing references for TUDCA intervention.

Zingerone effects on arsenic-induced glucose intolerance and hepatotoxicity in mice via suppression of oxidative stress-mediated hepatic inflammation and apoptosis

BACKGROUND

Arsenic (As), a poisonous metalloid, is widely distributed in air, water, and soil and has been associated with the occurrence of diabetes and liver toxicity. Zingerone (ZNG), one of the active compounds in ginger, has several pharmacological benefits such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics. The objective of this research was to assess the protective role of ZNG against arsenic (As)-induced glucose intolerance (GI) and hepatotoxicity in mice.

METHODS

Male NMRI mice were treated with ZNG (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, oral gavage for 29 days) before As administration (10 mg/kg, oral gavage for 29 days). On the 29th day, fasting blood glucose (FBG) and glucose tolerance test were measured. The animals were euthanized (day 30), and samples from blood and tissue (liver and pancreas) were gathered for further evaluations.

RESULTS

Administration of ZNG inhibited As-induced elevation of FBG and GI. Moreover, hepatic tissue damage and decreased Langerhans islets' diameter caused by As administration were improved by ZNG treatment. Pretreatment with ZNG attenuated the elevation of serum liver enzymes induced by As (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase). Also, the reduction in total thiol content, as well as the decline in antioxidant enzyme activities (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase) and the increase in lipid peroxidation marker (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) in the liver tissue of As-exposed mice were reversed in ZNG-treated mice. Furthermore, ZNG prevented the increase of hepatic inflammatory markers (nitric oxide and tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels, and protein expression of nuclear factor-kappa B) and apoptosis-related marker (caspase-3 protein expression) in As-treated mice.

CONCLUSIONS

This study has provided evidence indicating that ZNG can act as a beneficial agent in preventing As-induced hepatotoxicity and diabetes.

A comprehensive toxicological analysis of panel of unregulated e-cigarettes to human health

Electronic cigarettes, commonly referred to as e-cigarettes have gained popularity over recent years especially among young individuals. In the light of the escalating prevalence of the use of these products and their potential for long-term health effects, in this study as the first of its kind a comprehensive toxicological profiling of the liquid from a panel of unregulated e-cigarettes seized in the UK was undertaken using an in vitro co-culture model of the upper airways. The data showed that e-cigarettes caused a dose dependent increase in cell death and inflammation manifested by enhanced release of IL1ß and IL6. Furthermore, the e-cigarettes induced oxidative stress as demonstrated by a reduction of intracellular glutathione and an increase in generation of reactive oxygen species. Moreover, the assessment of genotoxicity showed significant DNA strand breaks (following exposure to Tigerblood flavoured e-cigarette). Moreover, relevant to the toxicological observations, was the detection of varying and frequently high levels of hazardous metals including cadmium, copper, nickel and lead. This study highlights the importance of active and ongoing collaborations between academia, governmental organisations and policy makers (Trading standards, Public Health) and national health service in tackling vape addiction and better informing the general public regarding the risks associated with e-cigarette usage.

DFT Study on the Mechanism of As(III) Oxidation in the Presence of Fe(II) and O2

In natural aquatic environments, the fate of arsenic (As) is significantly influenced by redox processes involving iron (Fe) species. Understanding the mechanisms governing As transformation in the presence of Fe species is crucial for comprehending its environmental impact and advancing remediation strategies. In this work, the oxidation of As(III) in oxygenated Fe(II) solutions was investigated. Density functional theory (DFT) methods were employed to explore the reaction of Fe(II) with 3O2 and subsequent As(III) oxidation by reactive species generated from Fe(II) oxidation. Electron paramagnetic resonance analysis was utilized to confirm the formation of reactive species in the solution. Based on these results, it is concluded that 1O2, ·O2H, and Fe(IV) are the critical oxidants responsible for As(III) oxidation in oxygenated Fe(II) solutions under circumneutral conditions. 1O2 readily oxidizes As(III) by forming an arsenic superoxide AsO5H3. Interaction of As(III) with ·O2H or Fe(IV) leads to As(IV), which is further oxidized to As(V) by 3O2, Fe(III), and Fe(IV).

Transcriptome Responses of the Soil-Dwelling Collembolan (Entomobrya proxima Folsom) to Fertilizer Type and Concentration

Soil collembolans have been regarded as the effective bioindicator of environmental changes. However, the physiological mechanisms through which collembolans respond to agricultural activities are largely unknown. Given the plasticity and sensitivity to environmental changes, even subtle responses can be quantified via transcriptomics. Therefore, the relevant in situ soil ecosystem and numerically dominant collembolan species Entomobrya proxima Folsom was selected to explore the dynamic responses to fertilizer type and concentration using transcriptome sequencing over three periods (6 h, 24 h and 10 d). The results showed that exposure duration caused significant alterations in gene expression profiles. At day 10 after exposure, gene expression patterns differed remarkably between the two fertilizer types and the control. Relative to organic fertilizer, the number of DEGs was increased by 114.31% under inorganic fertilizer, which declined with increasing inorganic fertilizer concentrations. Functional enrichment analysis was indicative of enhanced fatty acid and carbohydrate metabolism and reduced disease occurrence by organic fertilizer; however, an inhibited lipid synthesis process promoted susceptibility to infection, triggered oxidative stress, etc. by inorganic fertilizer. Overall, fertilizer addition changed the transcriptional pattern of the collembolan, potentially causing shifts in pathways related to metabolism, immunity, etc. In comparison to inorganic fertilizer, organic fertilizer impacted less on the gene expression patterns, implying that organic fertilizer application may be more beneficial to soil animal health.

Environmental Heavy Metal Exposure and Associated Cardiovascular Diseases in Light of the Triglyceride Glucose Index

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD), primarily ischemic heart disease and stroke, remain leading global health burdens. Environmental risk factors have a major role in the development of CVD, particularly exposure to heavy metals. The Triglyceride Glucose Index (TyG), a measure of insulin resistance and CVD risk, is the primary focus of this study, which summarizes the most recent findings on the effects of lead (Pb), arsenic (As), and cadmium (Cd) on CVD risk. A higher risk of CVD is correlated with an elevated TyG index, which has been linked to insulin resistance. Exposure to Cd is associated with disturbance of lipid metabolism and oxidative stress, which increases the risk of CVD and TyG. Exposure reduces insulin secretion and signaling, which raises the TyG index and causes dyslipidemia. Pb exposure increases the risk of CVD and TyG index via causing oxidative stress and pancreatic β-cell destruction. These results highlight the need of reducing heavy metal exposure by lifestyle and environmental modifications in order to lower the risk of CVD. To comprehend the mechanisms and create practical management plans for health hazards associated with heavy metals, more study is required.

Granulometric and Geochemical Distribution of Arsenic in a Mining Environmental Liability in a Semi-arid Area

This study focuses on the "El Lavadero" tailings deposit, a mining environmental liability (MEL) located near the town of San Felipe de Jesús, Sonora, in northwest Mexico. The objective was to determine the total arsenic (As) content, its granulometric and geochemical distribution, as well as its mobilization capacity and bioavailability. The results from oxidized and unoxidized tailings showed low potential of hydrogen (pH) values (2.4-5.7) and high concentrations of total arsenic (8235-36,004 mg kg-1), predominantly in the finer granulometric fractions (< 0.05 mm). Arsenic also prevails in the finest fraction of agricultural soil (> 2 mm). These fine particles could present adverse environmental effects due to their potential to be transported by leaching and water suspension. In contrast, arsenic in the effluent sediments is primarily found in the coarser fraction (> 2 mm). A significant proportion of arsenic in the tailings (5-40%) was found in the non-residual geochemical fractions (I + II + III) (1106-7675 mg kg-1), indicating potential for mobilization and bioavailability. Depending on environmental conditions (redox potential and pH), arsenic can redissolve and exhibit high mobility in abiotic media, which may ultimately impact the environment and human health. Therefore, it is crucial to rehabilitate the "El Lavadero" MEL to prevent further environmental damage. This study provides useful information to understand some phenomena in other global mining environmental liabilities, such as mobilization and bioavailability of arsenic and its possible impact on the surrounding environment and biota, contributing to the worldwide research of ecosystems polluted by mining activity, especially in arid and semi-arid climates.

Integration of proteomics and metabolomics analysis investigate mechanism of As-induced immune injury in rat spleen

Arsenic (As) is a widespread metalloid and human carcinogen found in the natural environment, and multiple toxic effects have been shown to be associated with As exposure. As can be accumulated in the spleen, the largest peripheral lymphatic organ, and long-term exposure to As can lead to splenic injury. In this study, a Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat model of As-poisoned was established, aiming to explore the molecular mechanism of As-induced immune injury through the combined analysis of proteomics and metabolomics of rats' spleen. After feeding the rats with As diet (50 mg/kg) for 90 days, the spleen tissue of the rats in the As-poisoned group was damaged, the level of As was significantly higher than that of the control group (P < 0.001), and the level of inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) was decreased (P < 0.01). Proteomics and metabolomics results showed that a total of 134 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) (P < 0.05 and fold change > 1.2) and 182 differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) (VIP >1 and P < 0.05) were identified in the spleens of the As poisoned group compared to the control group (As/Ctrl). The proteomic results highlight the role of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIF), natural killer cell mediated cytotoxicity, and ribosomes. The major pathways of metabolic disruption included arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism and folate single-carbon pool. The integrated analysis of these two omics suggested that Hmox1, Stat3, arachidonic acid, phosphatidylcholine and leukotriene B4 may play key roles in the mechanism of immune injury to the spleen by As exposure. The results indicate that As exposure can cause spleen damage in rats. Through proteomic and metabolomic analysis, the key proteins and metabolites and their associated mechanisms were obtained, which provided a basis for further understanding of the molecular mechanism of spleen immune damage caused by As exposure.

Effects of arsenic exposure on blood trace element levels in rats and sex differences

Arsenic (As) is a widespread environmental metalloid and human carcinogen, and its exposure is associated with a wide range of toxic effects, leading to serious health hazards. As poisoning is a complex systemic multi-organ and multi-system damage disease. In this study, a rat model of As poisoning was established to investigate the levels of trace elements in the blood of rats and sex differences in the effect of As on every trace elements in rat blood. Twenty 6-week-old SD (Sprague Dawley) rats were randomly divided into the control group and the As-exposed group. After 3 months, the contents of 19 elements including As in the blood were detected in these two groups by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). As levels in the blood of As-exposed rats were significantly higher than those in the control group, with increased levels of Rb, Sr, Cs and Ce, and decreased levels of Pd. As showed a significant positive correlation with Rb. There were significant sex differences in blood Se, Pd, Eu, Dy, Ho, and Au levels in the As-exposed group. The results showed that As exposure can lead to an increase of As content in blood and an imbalance of some elements. There were sex differences in the concentration and the correlation between elements of some elements. Elemental imbalances may affect the toxic effects of As and play a synergistic or antagonistic role in As toxicity.

Epicatechin ameliorates glucose intolerance and hepatotoxicity in sodium arsenite-treated mice

Arsenic is a metalloid found in the environment that causes toxic effects in different organs, mainly the liver. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of epicatechin (EC), a natural flavonol, on glucose intolerance (GI) and liver toxicity caused by sodium arsenite (SA) in mice. Our findings showed that SA exposure led to the development of GI. Liver tissue damage and decreased pancreatic Langerhans islet size were also observed in this study. Mice exposed to SA exhibited hepatic oxidative damage, indicated by reduced antioxidant markers (such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione), along with elevated levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances. SA administration elevated the serum activities of liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase. Furthermore, notable increases in the levels of inflammatory and apoptotic markers (Toll-like receptor 4, nuclear factor-kappa B, tumor necrosis factor-α, nitric oxide, B-cell lymphoma-2, and cysteine aspartate-specific protease-3) were observed in the liver. Treatment of SA-exposed mice with EC considerably reversed these biochemical and histological changes. This study demonstrated the beneficial effects of EC in ameliorating SA-induced hyperglycemia and hepatotoxicity due to its ability to enhance the antioxidant system by modulating inflammation and apoptosis.

Ferroptosis: a new mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine for treating hematologic malignancies

Ferroptosis is a recently identified form of cell death characterized by lipid peroxidation and elevated iron levels. It is closely associated with hematologic malignancies, including leukemia, multiple myeloma (MM), and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Research indicates that ferroptosis could represent a novel therapeutic target for these hematologic malignancies. Furthermore, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been shown to modulate hematologic malignancies through the ferroptosis pathway. This paper aims to elucidate the mechanisms underlying ferroptosis and summarize the current research advancements regarding ferroptosis in hematologic malignancies, as well as the role of traditional Chinese medicine in the prevention and treatment of ferroptosis, with the goal of enhancing treatment efficacy.

Hepatoprotective effects of zingerone on sodium arsenite-induced hepatotoxicity in rats: Modulating the levels of caspase-3/Bax/Bcl-2, NLRP3/NF-κB/TNF-α and ATF6/IRE1/PERK/GRP78 signaling pathways

OBJECTIVE

Long-term exposure to arsenic has been linked to several illnesses, including hypertension, diabetes, hepatic and renal diseases and cardiovascular malfunction. The aim of the current investigation was to determine whether zingerone (ZN) could shield rats against the hepatotoxicity that sodium arsenite (SA) causes.

METHODS

The following five groups of thirty-five male Sprague Dawley rats were created: I) Control; received normal saline, II) ZN; received ZN, III) SA; received SA, IV) SA + ZN 25; received 10 mg/kg body weight SA + 25 mg/kg body weight ZN, and V) SA + ZN 50; received 10 mg/kg body weight SA + 50 mg/kg body weight ZN. The experiment lasted 14 days, and the rats were sacrificed on the 15th day. While oxidative stress parameters were studied by spectrophotometric method, apoptosis, inflammation and endoplasmic reticulum stress parameters were measured by RT-PCR method.

RESULTS

The SA disrupted the histological architecture and integrity of the liver and enhanced oxidative damage by lowering antioxidant enzyme activity, such as those of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH) level and increasing malondialdehyde (MDA) level in the liver tissue. Additionally, SA increased the mRNA transcript levels of Bcl2 associated x (Bax), caspases (-3, -6, -9), apoptotic protease-activating factor 1 (Apaf-1), p53, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK), mitogen-activated protein kinase 14 (MAPK14), MAPK15, receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE) and nod-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) in the liver tissue. Also produced endoplasmic reticulum stress by raising the mRNA transcript levels of activating transcription factor 6 (ATF-6), protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK), inositol-requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1), and glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP-78). These factors together led to inflammation, apoptosis, and endoplasmic reticulum stress. On the other hand, liver tissue treated with ZN at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg showed significant improvement in oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the study's data suggest that administering ZN may be able to lessen the liver damage caused by SA toxicity.

Key characteristics of carcinogens meet hallmarks for prevention-cutting the Gordian knot

The complexity of cancer requires a comprehensive approach to understand its diverse manifestations and underlying mechanisms. Initially outlined by Hanahan and Weinberg in 2000 and updated in 2010, the hallmarks of cancer provide a conceptual basis for understanding inherent variability in cancer biology. Recent expansions have further elucidated additional hallmarks, including phenotypic plasticity and senescent cells. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has identified the key characteristics of carcinogens (KCCs) to evaluate their carcinogenic potential. We analyzed chemicals of concern for environmental exposure that interact with specific receptors to induce genomic instability, epigenetic alterations, immune suppression, and receptor-mediated effects, thereby contributing to chronic inflammation. Despite their varying degrees of carcinogenicity, these chemicals have similar KCC profiles. Our analysis highlights the pivotal role of receptor binding in activating most other KCCs, underscoring their significance in cancer initiation. Although KCCs are associated with early molecular or cellular events, they do not encompass processes directly linked to full cellular malignancy. Thus, there is a need to integrate clear endpoints that anchor KCCs to the acquisition of a complete malignant phenotype into chemical testing. From the perspective of toxicology and cancer research, an all-encompassing strategy that incorporates both existing and novel KCCs and cancer hallmarks is essential to enable the targeted identification of prevalent carcinogens and facilitate zone-specific prevention strategies. To achieve this goal, collaboration between the KCC and cancer hallmarks communities becomes essential.

Attenuation of chromium (VI) and arsenic (III)-induced oxidative stress and hepatic apoptosis by phloretin, biochanin-A, and coenzyme Q10 via activation of SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1/NQO1 signaling

Heavy metal contamination is an alarming concern on a global scale, as drinking tainted water significantly increases human susceptibility to heavy metals. In a realistic scenario, humans are often exposed to a combination of harmful chemicals rather than a single toxicant. Phloretin (PHL), biochanin-A (BCA), and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) are bioactive compounds owning plentiful pharmacological properties. Henceforth, the current research explored the putative energizing effects of selected nutraceuticals in combined chromium (Cr) and arsenic (As) intoxicated Swiss albino mice. Potassium dichromate (75 ppm) and sodium meta-arsenite (100 ppm) were given in the drinking water to induce hepatotoxicity, conjugated with PHL and BCA (50 mg/kg each), and CoQ10 (10 mg/kg) intraperitoneally for 2 weeks. After the statistical evaluation, it was observed that the hepato-somatic index, metal load, and antioxidant activity (lipid peroxidation and protein carbonyl content) increased along with the concomitant decrease in the antioxidants (catalase, glutathione-S-transferase, superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione, and total thiol) in the Cr and As intoxicated mice. Additionally, light microscopy observations, DNA breakages, decreased silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1), nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase (HO-1), and NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1 (NQO1) gene expressions, together with stimulated apoptotic cell death manifested by the increased expressions of caspase 8 and caspase 3, thus, proved consistency with the aforementioned outcomes. Importantly, the treatment with nutraceuticals not only restored the antioxidant activity but also favorably altered the expressions of SIRT1, Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1 signaling and apoptosis markers. These findings highlight the crucial role of the PHL, BCA, and CoQ10 combination in reducing Cr and As-induced hepatotoxicity in mice. By averting the triggered apoptosis in conjunction with oxidative stress, this combination increases the SIRT1, Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1 signaling, thereby reassuringly maintaining the cellular equilibrium.

Protective effects of baicalin against phenylarsine oxide-induced cytotoxicity in human skin keratinocytes

Phenylarsine oxide (PAO) is a known environmental pollutant and skin keratinocytes are most seriously affected. Baicalin (BCN) was reported to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, but its protective effect against PAO toxicity is unknown. This study aimed at exploring whether baicalin can reverse the toxicity of human epidermal keratinocytes that are subjected to PAO exposure and underlying mechanisms. In silico analysis from a publicly accessible HaCaT cell transcriptome dataset exposed to chronic Arsenic showed significant differential expression of several genes, including the genes related to DNA replication. Later, we performed in vitro experiments, in which HaCaT cells were exposed to PAO (500 nM) in the existence of BCN (10-50 µM). Treatment of PAO alone induces the JNK, p38 and caspase-3 activation, which were engaged in the apoptosis induction, while the activity of AKT was significantly inhibited, which was engaged in the suppression of apoptosis. PAO suppressed SIRT3 expression and induced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), causing a marked reduce in cell viability and apoptosis. However, BCN treatment restored the PAO-induced suppression of SIRT3 and AKT expression, reduced intracellular ROS generation, and markedly suppressed both caspase-3 activation and apoptosis induction. However, the protective effect of BCN was significantly attenuated after pretreatment with nicotinamide, an inhibitor of SIRT3. These findings indicate that BCN protects against cell death induced by PAO via inhibiting excessive intracellular ROS generation via restoring SIRT3 activity and reactivating downstream AKT pathway. In this study, we firstly shown that BCN is an efficient drug to prevent PAO-induced skin cytotoxicity, and these findings need to be confirmed by in vivo and clinical investigations.

Subchronic intake of arsenic at environmentally relevant concentrations causes histological lesions and oxidative stress in the prostate of adult Wistar rats

The prostate gland is one of the main sites of hyperplasia and cancer in elderly men. Numerous factors have been demonstrated to disrupt prostate homeostasis, including exposure to environmental pollutants. Arsenic is a metalloid found ubiquitously in soil, air, and water, which favors human poisoning through the involuntary intake of contaminated drinking water and food and has harmful effects by increasing the oxidative stress response. This study aimed to investigate the effects of prolonged exposure to arsenic at environmentally relevant concentrations on the prostate biology of adult Wistar rats. Thirty 80-day-old male rats were divided into three experimental groups. Rats from the control group received filtered water, whereas animals from the arsenic groups ingested 1 mg L-1 and 10 mg L-1 of arsenic, in the form of sodium arsenite, daily. The arsenic solutions were provided ad libitum in the drinking water for eight weeks. Our results showed that 1 mg L-1 and 10 mg L-1 of arsenic made the prostate susceptible to evolving benign and premalignant histopathological changes. While the ingestion of 1 mg L-1 of arsenic reduced SOD activity only, 10 mg L-1 diminished SOD and CAT activity in the prostate tissue, culminating in high MDA production. These doses, however, did not affect the intraprostatic levels of DHT and estradiol. In conclusion, exposure to arsenic at environmentally relevant concentrations through drinking water induces histological and oxidative stress-related changes in the prostate of adult rats, strengthening the between arsenic exposure and prostate disorders.

Impact of source, packaging and presence of food safety management system on heavy metals levels in spices and herbs

Spices and herbs are susceptible to various contaminants, including heavy metals. Our study aimed to quantify the levels of lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), cadmium (As), and cadmium (Cd) in 96 composite samples of 13 herbs and spices frequently consumed in Lebanon. Twenty percent (19/96) and 4% (4/96) of the samples exceeded the permissible levels of Pb and Cd, respectively and all the samples met the permissible levels of As and Hg according to Codex Alimentarius standards. For Pb and Cd, unpackaged samples had the highest levels of unacceptable samples of 31% (8/26) and 8% (2/26), respectively. The samples locally packaged in companies with and without Food Safety Management System (FSMS) had the same levels of unacceptable samples of 12% (3/26) and 4% (1/26) for Pb and Cd, respectively. Imported packaged samples had unacceptable levels of Pb (28% (5/18)) and were acceptable for the three other heavy metals.

Matrine Suppresses Arsenic-Induced Malignant Transformation of SV-HUC-1 Cells via NOX2

Arsenic (As) has been classified as a carcinogen for humans. There is abundant evidence indicating that arsenic increases the risk of bladder cancer among human populations. However, the underlying mechanisms have yet to be fully understood and elucidated. NADPH oxidases (NOXs) are the main enzymes for ROS production in the body. NADPH Oxidase 2 (NOX2), which is the most distinctive and ubiquitously expressed subunit of NOXs, can promote the formation and development of tumors. The utilization of NOX2 as a therapeutic target has been proposed to modulate diseases resulting from the activation of NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3). Matrine has been reported to exhibit various pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic, antitumor, and analgesic properties. However, it has not been reported whether matrine can inhibit malignant transformation induced by arsenic in uroepithelial cells through NOX2. We have conducted a series of experiments using both a sub-chronic NaAsO2 exposure rat model and a long-term NaAsO2 exposure cell model. Our findings indicate that arsenic significantly increases cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis in vivo and in vitro. Arsenic exposure resulted in an upregulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), NOX2, and NLRP3 inflammasome expression. Remarkably, both in vivo and in vitro, the administration of matrine demonstrated a significant improvement in the detrimental impact of arsenic on bladder epithelial cells. This was evidenced by the downregulation of proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis, as well as the expression of the NOX2 and NLRP3 inflammasomes. Collectively, these findings indicate that matrine possesses the ability to reduce NOX2 levels and inhibit the transformation of bladder epithelial cells.

The effects of long-term application of fomesafen on weed seedbank and resistance levels of Amaranthus retroflexus L

Amaranthus retroflexus L. is one of the invasive malignant weeds in soybean fields. Diphenyl ether herbicides are commonly used to control weeds in soybean fields currently, among which fomesafen is the most widely used. With the long-term use of fomesafen, the weed species in soybean fields in multiple areas declined, and the control effect of fomesafen against Amaranthus retroflexus decreased significantly. This study aims to confirm the effects of long-term use of fomesafen on weed community richness and the current resistance level of Amaranthus retroflexus. In this paper, the result of seed germination indicated that the weed community richness decreased significantly due to the long-term application of fomesafen, and the primary dominant weed was Amaranthus retroflexus. The result of the whole-plant bioassay showed that Amaranthus retroflexus has developed resistance to fomesafen, and the resistance index was 50~59 g a.i. ha-1. The resistance level and mechanism of Amaranthus retroflexus were clarified by target gene detection, enzyme activity determination, and gene expression analysis. The results showed that there were both target resistance with Arg128Gly mutation in the PPX2 gene and non-target resistance (NTSR), with increased activity of metabolic enzymes (cytochromes P450 (P450s) and glutathione S-transferase (GSTs)) and protective enzymes (peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT)) in Amaranthus retroflexus.