Zearalenone induces apoptosis of rat Sertoli cells through Fas-Fas ligand and mitochondrial pathway

Apoptosis mediated by crosstalk between mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum: A possible cause of citrinin disruption of the intestinal barrier

Citrinin (CTN) is a mycotoxin commonly found in contaminated foods and feed, posing health risks to both humans and animals. However, the mechanism by which CTN damages the intestine remains unclear. In this study, a model of intestinal injury was induced by administering 1.25 mg/kg and 5 mg/kg of CTN via gavage for 28 consecutive days in 6-week-old Kunming mice, aiming to explore the potential mechanisms underlying intestinal injury. The results demonstrate that CTN can cause structural damage to the mouse jejunum. Additionally, CTN reduces the protein expression of Claudin-1, Occludin, ZO-1, and MUC2, thereby disrupting the physical and chemical barriers of the intestine. Furthermore, exposure to CTN alters the structure of the intestinal microbiota in mice, thus compromising the intestinal microbial barrier. Meanwhile, the results showed that CTN exposure could induce excessive apoptosis in intestinal cells by altering the expression of proteins such as CHOP and GRP78 in the endoplasmic reticulum and Bax and Cyt c in mitochondria. The mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum are connected through the mitochondria-associated endoplasmic reticulum membrane (MAM), which regulates the membrane. We found that the expression of bridging proteins Fis1 and BAP31 on the membrane was increased after CTN treatment, which would exacerbate the endoplasmic reticulum dysfunction, and could activate proteins such as Caspase-8 and Bid, thus further inducing apoptosis via the mitochondrial pathway. Taken together, these results suggest that CTN exposure can cause intestinal damage by disrupting the intestinal barrier and inducing excessive apoptosis in intestinal cells.

Fusarium mycotoxins: The major food contaminants

Mycotoxins, which are secondary metabolites produced by toxicogenic fungi, are natural food toxins that cause acute and chronic adverse reactions in humans and animals. The genus Fusarium is one of three major genera of mycotoxin-producing fungi. Trichothecenes, fumonisins, and zearalenone are the major Fusarium mycotoxins that occur worldwide. Fusarium mycotoxins have the potential to infiltrate the human food chain via contamination during crop production and food processing, eventually threatening human health. The occurrence and development of Fusarium mycotoxin contamination will change with climate change, especially with variations in temperature, precipitation, and carbon dioxide concentration. To address these challenges, researchers have built a series of effective models to forecast the occurrence of Fusarium mycotoxins and provide guidance for crop production. Fusarium mycotoxins frequently exist in food products at extremely low levels, thus necessitating the development of highly sensitive and reliable detection techniques. Numerous successful detection methods have been developed to meet the requirements of various situations, and an increasing number of methods are moving toward high-throughput features. Although Fusarium mycotoxins cannot be completely eliminated, numerous agronomic, chemical, physical, and biological methods can lower Fusarium mycotoxin contamination to safe levels during the preharvest and postharvest stages. These theoretical innovations and technological advances have the potential to facilitate the development of comprehensive strategies for effectively managing Fusarium mycotoxin contamination in the future.

Selenium-Chitosan Protects Porcine Endometrial Epithelial Cells from Zearalenone-induced Apoptosis via the JNK/SAPK Signaling Pathway

This study was designed to assess whether selenium-chitosan (Se-CTS) can protect porcine endometrial epithelial cells (PEECs) against damage and apoptosis induced by zearalenone (ZEA) via modulating the JNK/SAPK signaling pathway. The cell cycle, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and apoptosis rates of porcine endometrial epithelial cells were determined, as well as the expression levels of genes related to the SAPK/JNK signaling pathway. The results showed that 3.0 µmol/L Se-CTS decreased the percentage of ZEA-induced G1 phase in PEECs (P < 0.01), whereas 1.5 and 3.0 µmol/L Se-CTS increased the percentage of ZEA-induced percentage of G2 phase of PEECs (P < 0.01). Further, Se-CTS at 1.5 and 3.0 µmol/L improved the ZEA-induced decrease in MMP (P < 0.01), whereas Se-CTS at 0.5, 1.5, and 3.0 µmol/L reduced the increase in ROS levels and apoptosis rate induced by ZEA in PEECs (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05). Furthermore, 3.0 µmol/L Se-CTS ameliorated the increase in the expression of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), apoptosis signal-regulated kinase (ASK1), and c-Jun induced by ZEA (P < 0.01) and the reduction in mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 4 (MKK4) and protein 53 (p53) expression (P < 0.01), while 1.5 µmol/L Se-CTS improved the expression of ASK1 and c-Jun induced by ZEA (P < 0.05). The results proved that Se-CTS alleviates ZEA-induced cell cycle stagnation, cell mitochondrial damage, and cell apoptosis via decreasing ZEA-produced ROS and modulating the JNK/SAPK signaling pathway.

Emerging role of vitamin D3 in alleviating intestinal structure injury caused by Aeromonas hydrophila in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella)

Bacterial pathogens destroy the structural integrity of functional organs in fish, leading to severe challenges in the aquaculture industry. Vitamin D3 (VD3) prevents bacterial infections and strengthens immune system function via vitamin D receptor (VDR). However, the correlation between VD3/VDR and the structural integrity of functional organs remains unclarified. This study aimed to investigate the influence of VD3 supplementation on histological characteristics, apoptosis, and tight junction characteristics in fish intestine during pathogen infection. A total of 540 healthy grass carp (257.24 ± 0.63 g) were fed different levels of VD3 (15.2, 364.3, 782.5, 1,167.9, 1,573.8, and 1,980.1 IU/kg) for 70 d. Subsequently, fish were challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila, a pathogen that causes intestinal inflammation. Our present study demonstrated that optimal supplementation with VD3 (1) alleviated intestinal structural damage, and inhibited oxidative damage by reducing levels of oxidative stress biomarkers; (2) attenuated excessive apoptosis-related death receptor and mitochondrial pathway processes in relation to p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling (P < 0.05); (3) enhanced tight junction protein expression by inhibiting myosin light chain kinase signaling (P < 0.05); and (4) elevated VDR isoform expression in fish intestine (P < 0.05). Overall, the results demonstrated that VD3 alleviates oxidative injury, apoptosis, and the destruction of tight junction protein under pathogenic infection, thereby strengthening pathogen defenses in the intestine. This finding supports the rationale for VD3 intervention as an essential practice in sustainable aquaculture.

Advances in the mechanisms related to follicle loss after frozen-thawed ovarian tissue transplantation

Ovaries are important reproductive and endocrine organs in women. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation technology can not only solve the fertility problems of patients, but also may improve female endocrine problems. This is particularly important for patients in urgent need of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and for women with prepubertal malignant tumors. However, follicle loss after freeze-thawing is a key challenge for effective ovarian tissue transplantation and leads to poor transplant outcomes. Therefore, it is crucial to elucidate the mechanisms underlying follicle loss after transplantation. This paper reviews current research on the mechanisms of follicle loss after frozen-thawed ovarian tissue transplantation, including the activation, apoptosis, and pyroptosis mechanisms of primordialfollicles. Further, it highlights the requirement of more experimental studies for improving ovarian tissue transplantation methods.

Real-life exposure to Fusarium toxins deoxynivalenol and zearalenone triggers apoptosis and activates NLRP3 inflammasome in bovine primary theca cells

Cattle are deemed less susceptible to mycotoxins due to the limited internal exposure resulting from rumen microbiota activity. However, the significant amounts of Fusarium mycotoxins deoxynivalenol (DON) and zearalenone (ZEN) frequently detected in bovine follicular fluid samples suggest that they could affect ovarian function. Both mycotoxins trigger several patterns of cell death and activate the NLRP3 inflammasome in the intestine. In vitro studies have reported a number of adverse effects on bovine oocytes. However, the biological relevance of such findings with regard to realistic concentrations of DON and ZEN in bovine follicular fluid is still not clear. Hence, it is important to better characterize the effects of dietary exposure to DON and ZEN on the bovine ovary. Using bovine primary theca cells, this study investigated the effects of real-life patterns for bovine ovary exposure to DON and ZEN, but also DON metabolite DOM-1, on cell death and NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Exposure to DON starting from 0.1 μM significantly decreased theca cell viability. The kinetics of phosphatidylserine translocation and loss of membrane integrity showed that ZEN and DON, but not DOM-1, induce an apoptotic phenotype. qPCR analysis of the expression of NLRP3, PYCARD, IL-1β, IL-18, and GSDMD in primary theca cells at concentrations of mycotoxin previously reported in cow follicular fluid clearly indicated that DON and DOM-1 individually and in mixture, but not ZEN, activate NLRP3 inflammasome. Altogether, these results suggest that real-life dietary exposure of cattle to DON may induce inflammatory disorders in the ovary.

Detoxification of Selenium Yeast on Mycotoxins and Heavy Metals: a Review

Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by specific fungi. More than 400 different mycotoxins are known in the world, and the concentration of these toxins in food and feed often exceeds the acceptable limit, thus causing serious harm to animals and human body. At the same time, modern industrial agriculture will also bring a lot of environmental pollution in the development process, including the increase of heavy metal content, and often the clinical symptoms of low/medium level chronic heavy metal poisoning are not obvious, thus delaying the best treatment opportunity. However, the traditional ways of detoxification cannot completely eliminate the adverse effects of these toxins on the body, and sometimes bring some side effects, so it is essential to find a new type of safe antidote. Trace element selenium is among the essential mineral nutrient elements of human and animal bodies, which can effectively remove excessive free radicals and reactive oxygen species in the body, and has the effects of antioxidant, resisting stress, and improving body immunity. Selenium is common in nature in inorganic selenium and organic selenium. In previous studies, it was found that the use of inorganic selenium (sodium selenite) can play a certain protective role against mycotoxins and heavy metal poisoning. However, while it plays the role of antioxidant, it will also have adverse effects on the body. Therefore, it was found in the latest study that selenium yeast could not only replace the protective effect of sodium selenite on mycotoxins and heavy metal poisoning, but also improve the immunity of the body. Selenium yeast is an organic selenium source with high activity and low toxicity, which is produced by selenium relying on the cell protein structure of growing yeast. It not only has high absorption rate, but also can be stored in the body after meeting the physiological needs of the body for selenium, so as to avoid selenium deficiency again in the short term. However, few of these studies can clearly reveal the protective mechanism of yeast selenium. In this paper, the detoxification mechanism of selenium yeast on mycotoxins and heavy metal poisoning was reviewed, which provided some theoretical support for further understanding of the biological function of selenium yeast and its replacement for inorganic selenium. The conclusions suggest that selenium yeast can effectively alleviate the oxidative damage by regulating different signaling pathways, improving the activity of antioxidant enzymes, reversing the content of inflammatory factors, regulating the protein expression of apoptosis-related genes, and reducing the accumulation of mycotoxins and heavy metals in the body.

Vitamin D Promotes Mucosal Barrier System of Fish Skin Infected with Aeromonas hydrophila through Multiple Modulation of Physical and Immune Protective Capacity

The vertebrate mucosal barrier comprises physical and immune elements, as well as bioactive molecules, that protect organisms from pathogens. Vitamin D is a vital nutrient for animals and is involved in immune responses against invading pathogens. However, the effect of vitamin D on the mucosal barrier system of fish, particularly in the skin, remains unclear. Here, we elucidated the effect of vitamin D supplementation (15.2, 364.3, 782.5, 1167.9, 1573.8, and 1980.1 IU/kg) on the mucosal barrier system in the skin of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila. Dietary vitamin D supplementation (1) alleviated A. hydrophila-induced skin lesions and inhibited oxidative damage by reducing levels of reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, and protein carbonyl; (2) improved the activities and transcription levels of antioxidant-related parameters and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 signaling; (3) attenuated cell apoptosis by decreasing the mRNA and protein levels of apoptosis factors involved death receptor and mitochondrial pathway processes related to p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and c-Jun N-terminal kinase signaling; (4) improved tight junction protein expression by inhibiting myosin light-chain kinase signaling; and (5) enhanced immune barrier function by promoting antibacterial compound and immunoglobulin production, downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokine expression, and upregulating anti-inflammatory cytokines expression, which was correlated with nuclear factor kappa B and the target of rapamycin signaling pathways. Vitamin D intervention for mucosal barrier via multiple signaling correlated with vitamin D receptor a. Overall, these results indicate that vitamin D supplementation enhanced the skin mucosal barrier system against pathogen infection, improving the physical and immune barriers in fish. This finding highlights the viability of vitamin D in supporting sustainable aquaculture.

Insights into Canine Infertility: Apoptosis in Chronic Asymptomatic Orchitis

Chronic asymptomatic orchitis (CAO) is a common cause of acquired non-obstructive azoospermia in dogs. To understand the impact and mode of action of apoptosis, we investigated TUNEL, Bax, Bcl-2, Fas/Fas ligand, and caspase 3/8/9 in testicular biopsies of CAO-affected dogs and compared the results to undisturbed spermatogenesis in healthy males (CG). TUNEL⁺ cells were significantly increased in CAO, correlating with the disturbance of spermatogenesis. Bcl-2, Bax (p < 0.01 each), caspase 9 (p < 0.05), Fas, caspase 8 (p < 0.01 each), and caspase 3 (p < 0.05) were significantly increased at the mRNA level, whereas FasL expression was downregulated. Cleaved caspase 3 staining was sporadic in CAO but not in CG. Sertoli cells, some peritubular (CAO/CG) and interstitial immune cells (CAO) stained Bcl-2⁺, with significantly more immunopositive cells in both compartments in CAO compared to CG. Bcl-2 and CD20 co-expressing B lymphocytes were encountered interstitially and in CAO occasionally also found intratubally, underlining their contribution to the maintenance of CAO. Our results support the crucial role of the intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways in the pathophysiology of canine CAO. Autoprotective Bcl-2 expression in Sertoli cells and B lymphocytes seems to be functional, however, thereby also maintaining and promoting the disease by immune cell activation.

Zearalenone damages the male reproductive system of rats by destroying testicular focal adhesion

Zearalenone (ZEA), a common mycotoxin in animal feed, is harmful to public health and causes huge economic losses. The potential target proteins of ZEA and its derivatives were screened using the PharmMapper database and the related genes (proteins) of the testis were obtained from Genecards. We obtained 144 potential targets of ZEA and its derivatives related to the testis using Venn diagrams. The PPI analysis showed that ZEA had the most targets in testis, followed by ZAN, α-ZAL, β-ZEL, α-ZEL, and β-ZAL. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) analyses evaluated the metabolic and cancer pathways. We further screened four hub genes: RAC3, CCND1, EP300, and CTNNB1. Eight key biological processes were obtained by GO analysis, and four important pathways were identified by KEGG analysis. Animal and cell experimental results confirmed that ZEA could inhibit the expression of four key KEGG pathway protein components and four hub proteins that interfere with cell adhesion by inhibiting the focal adhesion structure of the testis, Leydig cells, and Sertoli cells. Collectively, our findings reveal that the destruction of the focal adhesion structure in the testis is the mechanism through which ZEA damages the male reproductive system.

Estrogenic and Non-Estrogenic Disruptor Effect of Zearalenone on Male Reproduction: A Review

According to some estimates, at least 70% of feedstuffs and finished feeds are contaminated with one or more mycotoxins and, due to its significant prevalence, both animals and humans are highly likely to be exposed to these toxins. In addition to health risks, they also cause economic issues. From a healthcare point of view, zearalenone (ZEA) and its derivatives have been shown to exert many negative effects. Specifically, ZEA has hepatotoxicity, immunotoxicity, genotoxicity, carcinogenicity, intestinal toxicity, reproductive toxicity and endocrine disruption effects. Of these effects, male reproductive deterioration and processes that lead to this have been reviewed in this study. Papers are reviewed that demonstrate estrogenic effects of ZEA due to its analogy to estradiol and how these effects may influence male reproductive cells such as spermatozoa, Sertoli cells and Leydig cells. Data that employ epigenetic effects of ZEA are also discussed. We discuss literature data demonstrating that reactive oxygen species formation in ZEA-exposed cells plays a crucial role in diminished spermatogenesis; reduced sperm motility, viability and mitochondrial membrane potential; altered intracellular antioxidant enzyme activities; and increased rates of apoptosis and DNA fragmentation; thereby resulting in reduced pregnancy.

Exposure assessment of aflatoxins and zearalenone in edible vegetable oils in Shandong, China: health risks posed by mycotoxin immunotoxicity and reproductive toxicity in children

Human exposure to aflatoxins (AFs) and zearalenone (ZEA) has not been sufficiently investigated. Here, we analyzed the exposure level and health risks posed by AFs (B1, B2, G1, G2) and ZEA through cooking oil consumption in Shandong, China. The individual daily consumption of cooking oil was calculated through 2745 questionnaires during 2017-2019. The average contamination levels of mycotoxins were estimated by examining 60 cooking oil samples. For the peanut oil, AFs ranged from <0.2 to 274 μg/kg, with a positive rate of 66.6% (20/30). Average levels of 36.62 μg/kg AFB₁ and 44.43 μg/kg total AFs were found. Over-the-limit level (20 μg/kg) of AFB₁ was detected in 8/30 samples. Estimated daily intake (EDI) and margin of exposure (MOE) for age-stratified population groups showed that children are facing highest adverse health risk with AFB₁ (MOE 5.88-6.39). The liver cancer incidences attributable to AFB₁ exposure are non-negligible as 0.896, 0.825, and 0.767 cases per 100,000 for 6-14 age group, 15-17 age group, and adult labor-intensive workers. Over-the-limit level (60 μg/kg) ZEA contamination was detected in 25/30 corn oil samples with a 50th percentile value of 97.95 μg/kg. Our health risk assessment suggested significant health risks of enterohepatic (inflammation and cancer), reproductive, and endocrine systems posed by AFs and ZEA. However, the health risk of immunotoxicity is unclear because currently animal study data are not available for the immunotoxicity induced after long-term exposure. In general, the health risks posed by mycotoxins are non-negligible and long-term mycotoxin surveillance is necessary.

Deoxynivalenol triggers porcine intestinal tight junction disorder: Insights from mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is universally detected trichothecene in most cereal commodities, which is considered as a major hazardous material for human and animal health. Intestine is the most vulnerable organ with higher concentration of DON than other organs, owing to the first defense barrier function to exogenous substances. However, the underling mechanisms about DON-induced intestinal toxicity remain poorly understood. Here, DON poisoning models of IPEC-J2 cells was established to explore adverse effect and the potential mechanism of DON-induced enterotoxicity. Results showed that DON exposure destroyed IPEC-J2 cells morphology. Results showed that DON exposure destroyed IPEC-J2 cells morphology. Intestinal epithelial barrier injury was caused by DON with increasing LDH release, decreasing cell viability as well decreasing tight junction protein expressions (Occludin, N-Cad, ZO-1, Claudin-1 and Claudin-3). Moreover, DON caused mitochondrial dysfunction by opening mitochondrial permeability transition pore and eliminating mitochondrial membrane potential. DON exposure upregulated protein and mRNA expression of mitochondrial fission factors (Drp1, Fis1, MIEF1 and MFF) and mitophagy factors (PINK1, Parkin and LC3), downregulated mitochondrial fusion factors (Mfn1, Mfn2, except OPA1), resulting in mitochondrial dynamics imbalance and mitophagy. Overall, these findings suggested that DON induced tight junction dysfunction in IPEC-J2 cells was related to mitochondrial dynamics-mediated mitophagy.

Decabromodiphenyl ethane induces male reproductive toxicity by glycolipid metabolism imbalance and meiotic failure

Decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) is a typical flame retardant found in various electrical and textile items. DBDPE is abundantly available in the surrounding environment and wild animals based on its persistence and bioaccumulation. DBDPE has been shown to cause apoptosis in rat spermatogenic cells, resulting in reproductive toxicity. However, the toxicity of DBDPE on the male reproductive system and the potential mechanisms are still unclear. This study evaluated the effect of DBDPE on the reproductive system in male SD rats and demonstrated the potential mechanisms of reproductive toxicity. DBDPE (0, 5, 50, and 500 mg/kg/day) was administered via gavage to male SD rats for 28 days. DBDPE caused histopathological changes in the testis, reduced sperm quantity and motility, and raised the malformation rate in rats, according to the findings. Furthermore, it caused DNA damage to rat testicular cells. It inhibited the expressions of spermatogenesis-and oogenesis-specific helix-loop-helix transcription factor 1 (Sohlh1), piwi-like RNA-mediated gene silencing 2 (MILI), cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), and CyclinA, resulting in meiotic failure, as well as the expressions of synaptonemal complex proteins 1 and 3 (SYCP1 and SYCP3), leading to chromosomal association disorder in meiosis and spermatocyte cycle arrest. Moreover, DBDPE induced glycolipid metabolism disorder and activated mitochondria-mediated apoptosis pathways in the testes of SD rats. The quantity and quality of sperm might be declining due to these factors. Our findings offer further evidence of the harmful impact of DBDPE on the male reproductive system.

Mechanism of 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid-induced damage to rat testis via Fas/FasL pathway and the protective effect of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides

The herbicide 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) is widely used to control broadleaved weeds and has been associated with male infertility. We studied the molecular mechanisms of 2,4-D induced male reproductive system damage and the protective effects of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP) using Sprague Dawley rats and TM4 cells. Treatment with 2,4-D caused architectural and functional changes in the testis, including collapsed and atrophied seminiferous tubules with reduced number of spermatozoa, scarce sperm in the epididymal duct, low levels of serum testosterone, decreased superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activity, high malondialdehyde content, and increased apoptosis in the testis and epididymis. The expression of Fas, FasL, FADD, Pro-caspase-8, Cleaved-Caspase-8, Pro-Caspase-3, and Cleaved-Caspase-3 were significantly increased in the testicular tissue of 2,4-D-treated rats. The proliferative activity of TM4 cells decreased with an increase in dose and time of 2,4-D exposure, along with enhanced Fas/Fas ligand expression and a decreased concentration of inhibin B in TM4 cell culture medium. Depletion of Fas by specific shRNA transfection reversed the effects of 2,4-D in TM4 cells, further confirming the involvement of death receptor pathway in 2,4-D-mediated apoptosis of sertoli cells. Treatment with LBP also reversed the effects of 2,4-D in testicular cells, resulting in improved cell architecture along with enhanced proliferative capacity. Moreover, in response to LBP treatment of Sertoli cells, the content of inhibin B increased, the level of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde decreased, the activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase increased, and the rate of apoptosis as well as the expression of Fas/Fas ligand signaling pathway proteins decreased.

Prenatal exposure to bisphenol S and bisphenol A differentially affects male reproductive system in the adult offspring

Early exposure to bisphenol may result in adverse reproductive health in later life. The use of bisphenol S (BPS) has increased considerably after bisphenol A (BPA) is regulated worldwide. However, little is known about the fetal exposure to BPS compared with BPA and its effects on the reproductive system in the adult male offspring. Here, we investigated the effects of orally administered BPS and BPA (0.4, 4.0, 40.0 μg/kg bw/d) during gestation (gD4-21) on testicular development by evaluating the sperm DNA damage & methylation and testicular functions in the 90 d Wistar rats. Male offspring prenatally exposed to BPS (0.4 μg/kg) had higher plasma testosterone than BPA and control. The testis histology reveals thickened membrane by producing a wide interstitial gap between seminiferous tubules, increased testicular inflammation, oxidative stress, TIMP-1 expression, and decreased VCAM-1 expression. BPS promotes apoptosis by up-regulating IL-6, cleaved caspases, and a spike in sperm DNA fragmentation. Prenatal BPS exposure reduces sperm motility mediated via impaired PI3K-AKT signaling and increases testicular TEX11 expression in the offspring. Exposure of the fetus to BPS interferes developmental programming of the male reproductive system in the offspring. BPS could be an equally potent endocrine disruptor affecting male reproductive functions.

Identification of apoptotic pathways in zearalenone-treated mouse sertoli cells

Zearalenone (ZEN), one of the most prevalent non-steroidal oestrogenic mycotoxins, is primarily produced by Fusarium fungi. Due to its toxicity as an oestrogenic compound and wide distribution in feed and foods, the reproductive toxicology of ZEN exposure is of public concern. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of ZEN on Sertoli cells to identify apoptotic pathways induced by this compound. We found that ZEN reduced the viability and caused apoptosis in Sertoli cells in vitro. Notably, we observed that such effects were associated with a significant increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the number of cells that showed positive staining for γH2AX and RAD51, enzymes essential for repairing DNA damage. There was a parallel decrease in the expression of occludin and connexin 43, proteins that are present in the testis-blood barrier and gap junctions of Sertoli cells, respectively. Overall, the present study confirms that ZEN exposure can have serious deleterious effects on mammalian Sertoli cells and offers novel insight about its molecular targets in these cells.

Complex molecular mechanism of ammonia-induced apoptosis in chicken peripheral blood lymphocytes: miR-27b-3p, heat shock proteins, immunosuppression, death receptor pathway, and mitochondrial pathway

Ammonia gas, a toxic environmental pollutant, is a vital component of PM2.5 aerosols, and can decrease human and animal immunity. Peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) are main immune cells. Nevertheless, poisoning mechanism of PBLs under ammonia exposure remains unclear. Here, we established an ammonia poisoning model of chicken PBLs to explore poisoning mechanism of ammonia-caused apoptosis in chicken PBLs. Cell viability and apoptosis rate were detected using CCK8 assay and flow cytometry, respectively. Mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) was observed using fluorescent staining. In addition, qRT-PCR was performed to measure mRNA levels of apoptosis-related genes (tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFR1), TNF receptor-associated death domain (TRADD), Fas-associated death domain (FADD), Caspase-8, BH3-interacting domain death agonist (Bid), Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), Bcl-2 homologous antagonist/killer (Bak), B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), Cytochrome-c (Cytc), apoptotic protease activating factor-1 (APAF1), Caspase-9, and Caspase-3), immune-related genes (interferon-γ (IFN-γ), interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-4, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-10, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), IL-17, IL-21, and IL-22), heat shock protein (HSP) genes (HSP25, HSP40, HSP60, HSP70, HSP90, and HSP110), as well as miR-27b-3p. Western blot was used to determine protein levels of apoptosis-related factors (TNF-α, Caspase-8, Bcl-2, Caspase-9, and Caspase-3), as well as HSPs (HSP40, HSP60, HSP70, and HSP90). The results indicated that TRADD, FADD, and APAF1 were target genes of miR-27b-3p, as well as miR-27b-3p participated in molecular mechanism of apoptosis through targeting TNF-α/TNFR1/Caspase-8 death receptor pathway-triggered Bid/Cytc/Caspase-9 mitochondrial pathway in ammonia-treated chicken PBLs. In addition, our findings demonstrated that excess ammonia led to immunosuppression via Th1/Th2 imbalance and Treg/Th17 imbalance. Simultaneously, ammonia stress activated HSPs. In summary, for the first time, our data demonstrated that HSPs-triggered immunosuppression led to apoptosis under ammonia exposure. Our findings provided a new insight into molecular mechanism of ammonia poisoning and an important reference for environmental risk assessment related to ammonia.

Zearalenone Induces Apoptosis and Autophagy in a Spermatogonia Cell Line

Zearalenone (ZEN), a widely known mycotoxin, is mainly produced by various Fusarium species, and it is a potent estrogenic metabolite that affects reproductive health in livestock and humans. In this study, the molecular mechanisms of toxicity and cell damage induced by ZEN in GC-1 spermatogonia (spg) cells were evaluated. Our results showed that cell viability decreased and apoptosis increased in a dose-dependent manner when GC-1 spg cells were exposed to ZEN. In addition, the key proteins involved in apoptosis, cleaved caspase-3 and -8, BAD, BAX, and phosphorylation of p53 and ERK1/2, were significantly increased in ZEN-exposed GC-1 spg cells for 24 h, and cytochrome c was released from mitochondria by ZEN. Interestingly, ZEN also triggered autophagy in GC-1 spg cells. The expression levels of the autophagy-related genes Atg5, Atg3, Beclin 1, LC3, Ulk1, Bnip 3, and p62 were significantly higher in ZEN-treated GC-1 spg cells, and the protein levels of both LC3A/B and Atg12 were remarkably increased in a dose-dependent manner in ZEN-exposed GC-1 spg cells compared to the control. In addition, immunostaining results showed that ZEN-treated groups showed a remarkable increase in LC 3A/B positive puncta as compared to the control in a dose-dependent manner based on confocal microscopy analysis in GC-1 spg cells. Our findings suggest that ZEN has toxic effects on tGC-1 spg cells and induces both apoptosis and autophagy.

Zearalenone exposure impairs organelle function during porcine oocyte meiotic maturation

Zearalenone (ZEN) is one of the secondary metabolites of Fusarium and is regarded as a common contaminant of foodstuffs especially corn products. ZEN is considered to be cytotoxic, tissue toxic, genotoxic and reproductive toxic, which acts as a serious threat for humans and animals. In this study, we investigated the effects of ZEN on organelle function during porcine oocyte meiotic maturation. Our results showed that the expansion of cumulus granulosa cells and the extrusion of oocyte polar body were disturbed after ZEN exposure. Besides the aberrant mitochondrial distribution and impaired mitochondrial membrane potential after ZEN treatment during porcine oocyte maturation. We also found the fluorescence intensity of ER was decreased, and ZEN exposure altered ER stress level, showing with the reduced expression of GRP78. We also found that the spindle cortex distribution of Golgi apparatus was disrupted in ZEN-exposed oocytes, which was confirmed by the decreased level of GM130, moreover, our data also showed that Rab11-based vesical transport was disturbed, indicating the Golgi apparatus function was disrupted. Besides, the fluorescence intensity of lysosome was significantly increased, indicating the protein degradation and the potential autophagy occurrence after ZEN treatment. Thus, our results demonstrated that exposure to ZEN affected porcine oocyte meiotic maturation through its wide effects on organelle function for protein synthesis, transport and degradation.

Decabromodiphenyl ether induces male reproductive toxicity by activating mitochondrial apoptotic pathway through glycolipid metabolism dysbiosis

Decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209), an extensively used flame retardant, exists widely in the environment. Although male reproductive toxicity induced by BDE-209 has been reported, its mechanisms remain unclear. To explore the role of glycolipid metabolism in male reproductive toxicity and the potential mechanisms, forty male SD rats were divided into four groups and given gavage with BDE-209 at 0, 5, 50, and 500 mg/kg/d for 28 days. In vitro, the spermatogenic cell lines GC-2spd cells were divided into four groups: the control group, 32 μg/mL BDE-209 group, 32 μg/mL BDE-209 + 0.4 μM Fatostatin (the inhibitor of SREBP-1) group, and 0.4 μM Fatostatin group. Our results showed that BDE-209 decreased sperm quality and quantity, which was correlated with glycolipid metabolism dysbiosis of testis. The levels of glucose, triglyceride, and total cholesterol were negatively correlated with sperm concentration, and triglyceride and total cholesterol levels were negatively correlated with sperm motility, while positively correlated with the sperm malformation rate. Moreover, BDE-209 exposure activated the glycolipid metabolism pathways (PPARγ/RXRα/SCAP/SREBP-1) and mitochondrial apoptotic pathway, thereby inducing the apoptosis of spermatogenic cells. In vitro, BDE-209 caused triglyceride and total cholesterol disorder and apoptosis of GC-2spd cells, the lipid metabolism pathways inhibitor fatostain downregulated the elevation of triglyceride and total cholesterol concentrations, and suppressed apoptosis and the activation of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway in GC-2spd cells caused by BDE-209. Our results indicated that BDE-209 induced male reproductive toxicity by causing glycolipid metabolism dysbiosis of testis resulting in activating of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway in spermatogenic cells. The study provides new insight into the mechanisms of male reproductive toxicity caused by BDE-209.

Zearalenone promotes apoptosis of mouse Leydig cells by targeting phosphatase and tensin homolog and thus inhibiting the PI3K/AKT signal pathway

Zearalenone (ZEA) is a mycotoxin with estrogenic activity whose main effect is to impair the reproductive systems of animals. It leads to reproductive disorders in livestock and thus causes serious losses to agriculture and animal husbandry. This study aims to examine whether ZEA induces toxicity in Leydig cells through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and also to investigate the role played by the upstream phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) gene. An adenovirus vector model was constructed to interfere with the PTEN gene to investigate whether ZEA promotes the apoptosis of TM3 cells through the PI3K/AKT pathway. Apoptosis was detected cytometrically and the protein expression levels of PTEN, AKT, p-AKT, Bax, and Bcl-2 were evaluated via western blot analysis. The results show that ZEA induces apoptosis of TM3 cells. PTEN expression is significantly increased (P < 0.01), Bax expression is increased (P < 0.05), AKT and p-AKT expression of anti-apoptotic protein is significantly decreased (P < 0.01), and Bcl-2 protein expression is decreased (P < 0.05) in the ZEA group compared with the control group. In the shRNA+ZEA group, the expression levels of PTEN and Bax proteins are significantly decreased (P < 0.01), AKT protein is significantly increased (P < 0.01), and p-AKT protein is increased (P < 0.05) compared with the ZEA group. This study thus demonstrates that ZEA promotes apoptosis of TM3 cells by targeting PTEN and thus inhibiting the PI3K/AKT signal pathway.

T-2 toxin causes dysfunction of Sertoli cells by inducing oxidative stress

T-2 toxin is an inevitable mycotoxin in food products and feeds. It is a proven toxicant impairing the male reproductive system. However, previous studies have concentrated on the toxic effect of T-2 toxin on Leydig cells, with little attention on the Sertoli cell cytotoxicity. Therefore, this study aimed to establish the toxic mechanism of T-2 toxin on Sertoli cells. The Sertoli cell line (TM4 cell) was cultured and exposed to different concentrations of T-2 toxin with/without N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) for 24 h. A CCK-8 assay then measured the cell viability. In addition, the expression of TM4 cell biomarkers (FSHR and ABP) and functional factors (occludin (Ocln), zonula occluden-1 (ZO-1), Connexin 43 (Cx-43), and N-Cadherin (N-cad)) were measured by qRT-PCR and Western blotting. The oxidative stress status (ROS, MDA, CAT, and SOD) and apoptosis rate, including the caspase-9, 8, and 3 activities in TM4 cells, were analyzed. We established that (1): T-2 toxin decreased TM4 cells viability and the half-maximal inhibitory concentration was 8.10 nM. (2): T-2 toxin-induced oxidative stress, evidenced by increased ROS and MDA contents, and inhibited CAT and SOD activities. (3): T-2 toxin inhibited FSHR, ABP, ocln, ZO-1, Cx-43, and N-Cad expressions. (4): T-2 toxin promoted TM4 cell apoptosis and caspase-9, 8, and 3 activities. (5): N-acetyl-L-cysteine relieved oxidative stress, functional impairment, and apoptosis in TM4 cells treated with T-2 toxin. Thus, T-2 toxin induced TM4 cell dysfunction through ROS-induced apoptosis.

Tannic acid repair of zearalenone-induced damage by regulating the death receptor and mitochondrial apoptosis signaling pathway in mice

Zearalenone (ZEA) is an estrogenic toxin produced by Fusarium strains, that is widely present in crops, and endangers the reproductive system of animals. Tannic acid (TA) is a natural polyphenolic substance that is widespread in the roots, stems, and leaves of plants, and has special pharmacological activity. This study was designed to investigate the therapeutic effect of TA on ZEA-induced ovarian damage in mice and to explore the molecular mechanism involved. Ninety healthy Kunming female mice were divided into six equal groups. All the groups but the control group were administered daily with ZEA [10 mg/kg body weight (bw)] orally, for 7 days, to induce damage to the reproductive system. Some groups were also administered with TA (50, 100, and 200 mg/bw) for 7 days. Mice were euthanized 24 h later to allow for collection of serum and ovaries. TA can effectively alleviate the appearance of congestion and redness of the ovary, caused by ZEA, and increase the number of healthy growing follicles. Moreover, the estrogen content and the levels of MDA and ROS in the ovaries can be effectively reduced by TA. It can also reduce the apoptosis of ovarian cells, decreases the protein expression of the estrogen receptor, Fas, Fasl, caspase-3, caspase-8, caspase-9, and Bax, and increases the protein expression of Bcl-2. Our study indicates that TA reduces the strong estrogen and oxidative damage induced by ZEA, and these therapeutic effects may be partially mediated by the death receptor and mitochondrial apoptosis signaling pathway.

Zearalenone Induces Dopaminergic Neurodegeneration via DRP-1-Involved Mitochondrial Fragmentation and Apoptosis in a Caenorhabditis elegans Parkinson's Disease Model

The contamination of mycotoxin zearalenone (ZEN) in foods has been reported worldwide, resulting in potential risks to food safety. However, the toxic mechanism of ZEN on neurodegenerative diseases has not been fully elucidated. Therefore, this study conducted in vivo ZEN neurotoxicity assessment on Parkinson's disease (PD)-related dopaminergic neurodegeneration and mitochondrial dysfunction using Caenorhabditis elegans. The results demonstrated that dopaminergic neuron damage was induced by ZEN exposure (1.25, 10, and 50 μM), and dopaminergic neuron-related behaviors were adversely affected subsequently. Additionally, the mitochondrial fragmentation was significantly increased by ZEN exposure. Moreover, upregulated expression of mitochondrial fission and cell apoptosis-related genes (drp-1, egl-1, ced-4, and ced-3) revealed the crucial role of DRP-1 on ZEN-induced neurotoxicity, which was further confirmed by drp-1 mutant and RNAi assays. In conclusion, our study indicates ZEN-induced dopaminergic neurodegeneration via DRP-1-involved mitochondrial fragmentation and apoptosis, which might cause harmful effects on PD-related symptoms.

Fas regulates the apoptosis and migration of trophoblast cells by targeting NF-κB

Placental trophoblast apoptosis is a major pathological feature of preeclampsia. Fas has been reported to be highly expressed in the placentas of patients with preeclampsia. However, the role and underlying mechanisms of Fas in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia have not been elucidated. In the present study, the expression of Fas in JAR human choriocarcinoma cells was overexpressed and knocked down to determine the function and possible mechanism of Fas in trophoblast cells in the progression of preeclampsia. The results of flow cytometry, Cell Counting Kit-8 and Transwell assays indicated that the overexpression of Fas promoted apoptosis, suppressed viability and impaired the migration of the human trophoblast cells. In addition, western blotting revealed that the overexpression of Fas increased the expression of nuclear factor kB (NF-kB), Bax, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and interleukin-2 (IL-2), and decreased the expression of Bcl-2 at the protein level in trophoblast cells. By contrast, the knockdown of Fas decreased the apoptosis of trophoblast cells and increased their viability and migration. In addition, the knockdown of Fas suppressed the expression of NF-κB, Bax, TNF-α and IL-2, and increased the expression of Bcl-2. Notably, the overexpression of NF-κB p65 attenuated the Fas knockdown-induced inhibition of apoptosis and acceleration of migration of the trophoblast cells. The overexpression of NF-κB in trophoblast cells also reversed the reduction in Bax expression and increase in Bcl-2 expression induced by Fas knockdown in trophoblast cells. These results indicate that Fas regulates the apoptosis and migration of trophoblast cells by targeting NF-κB, which suggests that the silencing of Fas is a promising therapeutic strategy for preeclampsia.

Deoxynivalenol and Zearalenone-Synergistic or Antagonistic Agri-Food Chain Co-Contaminants?

Deoxynivalenol (DON) and Zearalenone (ZEN) are two commonly co-occurring mycotoxins produced by members of the genus Fusarium. As important food chain contaminants, these can adversely affect both human and animal health. Critically, as they are formed prior to harvesting, their occurrence cannot be eliminated during food production, leading to ongoing contamination challenges. DON is one of the most commonly occurring mycotoxins and is found as a contaminant of cereal grains that are consumed by humans and animals. Consumption of DON-contaminated feed can result in vomiting, diarrhoea, refusal of feed, and reduced weight gain in animals. ZEN is an oestrogenic mycotoxin that has been shown to have a negative effect on the reproductive function of animals. Individually, their mode of action and impacts have been well-studied; however, their co-occurrence is less well understood. This common co-occurrence of DON and ZEN makes it a critical issue for the Agri-Food industry, with a fundamental understanding required to develop mitigation strategies. To address this issue, in this targeted review, we appraise what is known of the mechanisms of action of DON and ZEN with particular attention to studies that have assessed their toxic effects when present together. We demonstrate that parameters that impact toxicity include species and cell type, relative concentration, exposure time and administration methods, and we highlight additional research required to further elucidate mechanisms of action and mitigation strategies.

Oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis is involved in bisphenol S-induced reproductive toxicity in male C57BL/6 mice

The reproductive toxicity of bisphenol S (BPS) in male mammals and its possible mechanism are not clear. We investigated the effects and possible mechanism of action of BPS on adult male C57BL/6 mice. We found that exposure to 200-mg/kg BPS resulted in a significant decrease in the sperm count in the caput/corpus and cauda epididymis, significantly decreased sperm motility, and significantly increased the sperm deformity. Histological evaluation revealed that BPS exposure caused a decrease of spermatozoa in the lumen of seminiferous tubules and a reduction in the proportion of Stage VII or VIII seminiferous tubules in the BPS-treated groups. Furthermore, ultrastructure analysis revealed BPS-induced mitochondrial damage and apoptosis in spermatogenic cells. Moreover, BPS exposure-induced oxidative stress in testicular tissues. Further, dUTP-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay showed that BPS induced the apoptosis of spermatogenic cells in a dose-dependent manner. BPS also significantly upregulated cleaved caspase-8, cleaved caspase-9, cleaved caspase-3, Fas, and FasL and significantly downregulated the Bcl-2/Bax ratio. These results suggest that BPS-induced oxidative stress in the testis and spermatogenic cell apoptosis potentially impairs spermatogenesis and sperm function, which may be the mechanism of the reproductive toxicity of BPS. The Fas/FasL and mitochondrial signal pathways may be involved in BPS-induced oxidative stress-related apoptosis. These results suggest that BPS-induced oxidative stress in the testis and spermatogenic cell apoptosis potentially impairs spermatogenesis and sperm function, which may be the mechanism of the reproductive toxicity of BPS. The Fas/FasL and mitochondrial signal pathways may be involved in BPS-induced oxidative stress-related apoptosis.

Zearalenone and the Immune Response

Zearalenone (ZEA) is an estrogenic fusariotoxin, being classified as a phytoestrogen, or as a mycoestrogen. ZEA and its metabolites are able to bind to estrogen receptors, 17β-estradiol specific receptors, leading to reproductive disorders which include low fertility, abnormal fetal development, reduced litter size and modification at the level of reproductive hormones especially in female pigs. ZEA has also significant effects on immune response with immunostimulatory or immunosuppressive results. This review presents the effects of ZEA and its derivatives on all levels of the immune response such as innate immunity with its principal component inflammatory response as well as the acquired immunity with two components, humoral and cellular immune response. The mechanisms involved by ZEA in triggering its effects are addressed. The review cited more than 150 publications and discuss the results obtained from in vitro and in vivo experiments exploring the immunotoxicity produced by ZEA on different type of immune cells (phagocytes related to innate immunity and lymphocytes related to acquired immunity) as well as on immune organs. The review indicates that despite the increasing number of studies analyzing the mechanisms used by ZEA to modulate the immune response the available data are unsubstantial and needs further works.

Zearalenone affects reproductive functions of male offspring via transgenerational cytotoxicity on spermatogonia in mouse

Previous studies have demonstrated that Zearalenone (ZEA) affects not only maternal reproductive function but also that of the offspring. However, the transgenerational toxic effects of ZEA on the spermatogonia of male F1 mice are not clear. The present study was thus designed to determine whether the fertility of male F1 mice was affected following exposure of F0 pregnant mice to ZEA. In present study, 32 pregnant female mice were divided into 4 groups and exposed to ZEA of 0, 2.5 and 5.0 mg/kg, respectively, and the testis development and reproductive performance of 96 male F1 mice were analyzed. The results demonstrated that the F0 pregnant mice treated with ZEA resulted in increased anogenital distances in the newborn male F1 mice. Moreover, ZEA caused abnormal vacuole structures and loose connections in the testes of male F1 offspring, compared with the controls. Further ultramicrostructural analysis showed that the mitochondria appeared to be vacuolated with ablated membranes and cristae, and this was accompanied by the presence of large lipid droplets in the spermatogonia. Further, the semen quality and sperm counts declined significantly, and increased malformation rates and decreased testosterone levels were observed in the male F1 offspring from experimental groups. Our results reveal the toxic effects of ZEA on F0 pregnant mice is transgenerational, and affects the fertility of male F1 mice by damaging the spermatogonial cells. This offers a new viewpoint of ZEA-induced reproductive toxicity in male animals and provides a new potential direction for the treatment and prevention of ZEA-induced cytotoxicity.

Chemical composition and anti-hepatoma effect of Annona squamosa L. pericarp oil

In this study, an optimal method used to extract Annona squamosa pericarp oil (ASPO) was established according to the response surface model. The yield of ASPO was 1.45%. 8 fatty acids were identified from ASPO by GC-MS. Among them, (9Z)-9-Octadecenoic acid was abundant and accounted for 49.65%. The anti-hepatoma activities of ASPO were investigated against SMMC-7721 cell line in vitro and H₂₂ cell line in vivo. Proteins associated with apoptosis in tumour tissue were quantified by western blot assay. The result revealed that ASPO had significant anti-hepatoma activities with IC₅₀ value of 15.96 μg/mL in vitro and tumour inhibition rate of 54.14% at 50 mg/kg dose in vivo. Protein analysis showed that ASPO activated apoptosis by down-regulating Bcl-2, up-regulating Bax, cleaving caspase 9, cleaving caspase 8 and cleaving caspase 3 proteins. The possible mechanisms of apoptosis induced by ASPO were related to Fas/FasL/caspase-8/caspase-3 and Bcl-2/bax/caspase-9/caspase-3 pathways.

Astragaloside IV alleviates ischemia reperfusion-induced apoptosis by inhibiting the activation of key factors in death receptor pathway and mitochondrial pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Apoptosis plays an important role in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury and triggers a series of pathological changes which may even be life-threatening. Astragaloside-IV (AS-IV), a natural compound extracted from Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bunge., Leguminosae, Huangqi in Chinese), showed neuroprotective effects in the study of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. In this study we investigate the effects of AS-IV on apoptosis induced by transient cerebral ischemia and reperfusion in rats, as well as the associated regulatory factors.

METHODS

AS-IV was administrated to male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats after transient cerebral ischemia and reperfusion surgery (12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg, once per day, continued for 7 days after surgey). After seven days of continuous administration, neurological function, cerebral infarction volume, and pathological changes of brain tissue were detected. Fas, FasL, Caspase-8, Bax, and Bcl-2 mRNA levels were determined by real-time PCR. Caspase-8, Bid, Cytochrome C (Cyto C), cleaved Caspase-3 proteins were determined by western blot and immunohistochemistry was used to quantify Cyto C.

RESULTS

AS-IV significantly attenuated the neurological deficit in rats with ischemica-reperfusion injury, and reduced cerebral infarction and neuronal apoptosis. AS-IV inhibited the mRNA upregulation of Fas, FasL, Caspase-8, and Bax/Bcl-2. Furthermore, the protein level of apoptosis cytokines Caspase-8, Bid, cleaved Caspase-3 and Cyto C were also inhibited after ischemia reperfusion, suggesting that AS-IV might alleviate ischemia reperfusion-induced apoptosis by inhibiting the activation of key factors in death receptor pathway and mitochondrial pathway.

Equol: A Microbiota Metabolite Able to Alleviate the Negative Effects of Zearalenone during In Vitro Culture of Ovine Preantral Follicles

The impact of zearalenone (ZEN) on female reproduction remains an issue, since its effects may differ among exposed cell types. Besides the use of decontaminants in animal diet, other approaches should be considered to minimise ZEN effects after exposure. Since the first organ in contact with ZEN is the gastrointestinal tract, we hypothesise that products of microbiota metabolism may play a role in ZEN detoxification. We aimed to evaluate the effect of 1 µmol/L ZEN and 1 µmol/L equol (a microbial metabolite), alone or in combination, on the survival and morphology of in vitro cultured ovarian preantral follicles. Ovaries from 12 sheep were collected at a local abattoir and fragmented, and the ovarian pieces were submitted to in vitro culture for three days in the presence or absence of the test compounds. The follicular morphology was impaired by ZEN, but equol could alleviate the observed degeneration rates. While ZEN decreased cell proliferation in primary and secondary follicles, as well as induced DNA double-strand breaks in primordial follicles, all these observations disappeared when equol was added to a culture medium containing ZEN. In the present culture conditions, equol was able to counteract the negative effects of ZEN on ovarian preantral follicles.

Updates on the Effect of Mycotoxins on Male Reproductive Efficiency in Mammals

Mycotoxins are ubiquitous and unavoidable harmful fungal products with the ability to cause disease in both animals and humans, and are found in almost all types of foods, with a greater prevalence in hot humid environments. These mycotoxins vary greatly in structure and biochemical effects; therefore, by better understanding the toxicological and pathological aspects of mycotoxins, we can be better equipped to fight the diseases, as well as the biological and economic devastations, they induce. Multiple studies point to the association between a recent increase in male infertility and the increased occurrence of these mycotoxins in the environment. Furthermore, understanding how mycotoxins may induce an accumulation of epimutations during parental lifetimes can shed light on their implications with respect to fertility and reproductive efficiency. By acknowledging the diversity of mycotoxin molecular function and mode of action, this review aims to address the current limited knowledge on the effects of these chemicals on spermatogenesis and the various endocrine and epigenetics patterns associated with their disruptions.

Zearalenone Induces Estrogen-Receptor-Independent Neutrophil Extracellular Trap Release in Vitro

Zearalenone (ZEA) is a non-steroidal estrogenic mycotoxin synthesized in Fusarium species, mainly Fusarium graminearum and Fusarium culmorum, and it has strong estrogenic activity and causes genotoxic effects, reproductive disorders, and immunosuppressive effects. Neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) has been studied for many years. Initially, NET was considered a form of the innate response that combats invading microorganisms. However, NET is involved in a series of pathophysiological mechanisms, including thrombosis, tissue necrosis, autoinflammation, and even autoimmunity. We recently found that polymorphonuclear neutrophils response to ZEA exposure by undergoing NET formation. However, the molecular mechanisms involved in this process remain poorly characterized. Here, we analyze whether estrogen receptors (ERs) can affect NET formation after ZEA stimulation. The involvement of ERs is investigated with the selective ER antagonists. Moreover, we investigate the mechanisms of NET formation using immunofluorescence staining, fluorescence microplate, and western blot analysis. Our results show that ERs (ERα and ERβ) are not involved in ZEA-induced NET formation, but reactive oxygen species (ROS), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and p38 are postulated to be involved. Specifically, we provide data demonstrating that ZEA-induced ROS may promote activation of ERK and p38 as well as subsequent NET release. We are the first to demonstrate this new mechanism of ZEA-induced NET formation, which may help in understanding the role of ZEA in overexposure diseases and provide a relevant basis for therapeutic applications.

Alterations in global DNA methylation and metabolism-related genes caused by zearalenone in MCF7 and MCF10F cells

Zearalenone (ZEN) is a non-steroidal estrogenic mycotoxin produced by Fusarium fungi. ZEN has endocrine disruptor effects and could impair the hormonal balance. Here, we aimed at investigating possible effects of ZEN on metabolism-related pathways and its relation to epigenetic mechanisms in breast adenocarcinoma (MCF7) and breast epithelial (MCF10F) cells. Using the MTT and neutral red uptake (NRU) cell viability tests, IC₅₀ values of ZEN after 24 h were found to be 191 μmol/L and 92.6 μmol/L in MCF7 cells and 67.4 μmol/L and 79.5 μmol/L in MCF10F cells. A significant increase on global levels of 5-methylcytosine (5-mC%) was observed for MCF7 cells, correlating with the increased expression of DNA methyltransferases. No alterations were observed on levels of 5-mC% and expression of DNA methyltransferases for MCF10F cells. Further, at least threefold upregulation compared to control was observed for several genes related to nuclear receptors and metabolism in MCF7 cells, while some of these genes were downregulated in MCF10F cells. The most notably altered genes were IGF1, HK2, PXR, and PPARγ. We suggested that ZEN could alter levels of global DNA methylation and impair metabolism-related pathways.