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Barros ANDAB, Felipe MLDN, Barbosa IR, Leite-Lais L, Pedrosa LFC. Dietary Intake of Micronutrients and Disease Severity in Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Metabolites 2023; 13:696. [PMID: 37367854 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13060696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitamins and essential metals have been studied as potential risk and prognostic factors in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of inadequate micronutrient intake in ALS patients, comparing subgroups according to the disease severity. Data were obtained from the medical records of 69 individuals. Assessment of disease severity was determined by the revised ALS Functional Scale (ALSFRS-R), using the median as the cutoff. The prevalence of inadequate micronutrient intake was estimated using the Estimated Average Requirements (EAR) cut-point method. The prevalence of inadequate vitamin D, E, riboflavin, pyridoxine, folate, cobalamin, calcium, zinc, and magnesium intake was considered severe. Patients with lower ALSFRS-R scores had lower intakes of vitamin E (p < 0.001), niacin (p = 0.033), pantothenic acid (p = 0.037), pyridoxin (p = 0.008), folate (p = 0.009) and selenium (p = 0.001). Therefore, ALS patients should be monitored regarding dietary intake of micronutrients essential in neurological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Acsa Nara de Araújo Brito Barros
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal 59078-970, RN, Brazil
| | - Maria Luisa do Nascimento Felipe
- Postgraduate Program in Nutrition, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal 59078-970, RN, Brazil
| | - Isabelle Ribeiro Barbosa
- Faculty of Health Sciences of Trairi (FACISA), Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Santa Cruz 59200-000, RN, Brazil
| | - Lucia Leite-Lais
- Department of Nutrition, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal 59078-970, RN, Brazil
| | - Lucia Fátima Campos Pedrosa
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal 59078-970, RN, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Nutrition, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal 59078-970, RN, Brazil
- Faculty of Health Sciences of Trairi (FACISA), Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Santa Cruz 59200-000, RN, Brazil
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Farace C, Fiorito G, Pisano A, Etzi F, Sabalic A, Fenu G, Asara Y, Solinas G, Madeddu R. Human tissue lead (Pb) levels and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of case–control studies. Neurol Sci 2022; 43:5851-5859. [PMID: 35809130 PMCID: PMC9474539 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-06237-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Aim To combine the current scientific literature evidence and elucidate the differences of lead (Pb) bioaccumulation in human tissues by comparing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients and healthy controls. Methods We systematically searched for case–control studies on the association of Pb levels with ALS, in human cells, tissues, and body fluids (nervous tissue, muscle, blood, cerebrospinal fluid, urine, skin appendages). Then, we performed a meta-analysis for all the tissues in which at least five case–control studies were available: whole blood (9 studies), serum/plasma (5 studies), and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) (6 studies). Differences between cases and controls were evaluated using standardized mean difference, and combined estimates were derived using random effect maximum likelihood (REML) meta-analyses. Results Among 1734 records, we identified 46 full-text studies, of which 14 case–control studies met the meta-analysis inclusion criteria. We found higher Pb levels in ALS cases than controls in blood (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.61; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.20, 1.01; p = 0.003), plasma/serum (SMD = 0.27; 95% CI − 0.16, 0.70; p = 0.26), and CSF (SMD = 0.53; 95% CI − 0.09, 1.15; p = 0.09). Conclusions This work provides further evidence of the association between Pb bioaccumulation and ALS in body fluids. The lack of association studies in solid tissues did not allow a robust meta-analysis. Future prospective studies are needed to clarify the causality in the association of Pb bioaccumulation with ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiano Farace
- Department of Biomedical Sciences-Histology, University of Sassari, Viale S. Pietro 43b, 07100, Sassari, Italy
- National Institute of Biostructure and Biosystem, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Fiorito
- Department of Biomedical Science-Hygiene, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
- School of Public Health, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Andrea Pisano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences-Histology, University of Sassari, Viale S. Pietro 43b, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Federica Etzi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences-Histology, University of Sassari, Viale S. Pietro 43b, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Angela Sabalic
- Department of Biomedical Sciences-Histology, University of Sassari, Viale S. Pietro 43b, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Grazia Fenu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences-Histology, University of Sassari, Viale S. Pietro 43b, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Yolande Asara
- Department of Biomedical Sciences-Histology, University of Sassari, Viale S. Pietro 43b, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giuliana Solinas
- Department of Biomedical Science-Hygiene, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Roberto Madeddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences-Histology, University of Sassari, Viale S. Pietro 43b, 07100, Sassari, Italy
- National Institute of Biostructure and Biosystem, Rome, Italy
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3
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Motataianu A, Serban G, Barcutean L, Balasa R. Oxidative Stress in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Synergy of Genetic and Environmental Factors. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169339. [PMID: 36012603 PMCID: PMC9409178 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a grievous neurodegenerative disease whose survival is limited to only a few years. In spite of intensive research to discover the underlying mechanisms, the results are fairly inconclusive. Multiple hypotheses have been regarded, including genetic, molecular, and cellular processes. Notably, oxidative stress has been demonstrated to play a crucial role in ALS pathogenesis. In addition to already recognized and exhaustively studied genetic mutations involved in oxidative stress production, exposure to various environmental factors (e.g., electromagnetic fields, solvents, pesticides, heavy metals) has been suggested to enhance oxidative damage. This review aims to describe the main processes influenced by the most frequent genetic mutations and environmental factors concurring in oxidative stress occurrence in ALS and the potential therapeutic molecules capable of diminishing the ALS related pro-oxidative status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anca Motataianu
- Department of Neurology, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Targu Mures, 540136 Targu Mures, Romania
- 1st Neurology Clinic, Emergency Clinical County Hospital Targu Mures, 540136 Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Georgiana Serban
- Doctoral School, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +40-0724-051-516
| | - Laura Barcutean
- Department of Neurology, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Targu Mures, 540136 Targu Mures, Romania
- 1st Neurology Clinic, Emergency Clinical County Hospital Targu Mures, 540136 Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Rodica Balasa
- Department of Neurology, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Targu Mures, 540136 Targu Mures, Romania
- 1st Neurology Clinic, Emergency Clinical County Hospital Targu Mures, 540136 Targu Mures, Romania
- Doctoral School, “George Emil Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
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4
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Re DB, Yan B, Calderón-Garcidueñas L, Andrew AS, Tischbein M, Stommel EW. A perspective on persistent toxicants in veterans and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: identifying exposures determining higher ALS risk. J Neurol 2022; 269:2359-2377. [PMID: 34973105 PMCID: PMC9021134 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-021-10928-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Multiple studies indicate that United States veterans have an increased risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) compared to civilians. However, the responsible etiological factors are unknown. In the general population, specific occupational (e.g. truck drivers, airline pilots) and environmental exposures (e.g. metals, pesticides) are associated with an increased ALS risk. As such, the increased prevalence of ALS in veterans strongly suggests that there are exposures experienced by military personnel that are disproportionate to civilians. During service, veterans may encounter numerous neurotoxic exposures (e.g. burn pits, engine exhaust, firing ranges). So far, however, there is a paucity of studies investigating environmental factors contributing to ALS in veterans and even fewer assessing their exposure using biomarkers. Herein, we discuss ALS pathogenesis in relation to a series of persistent neurotoxicants (often emitted as mixtures) including: chemical elements, nanoparticles and lipophilic toxicants such as dioxins, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and polychlorinated biphenyls. We propose these toxicants should be directly measured in veteran central nervous system tissue, where they may have accumulated for decades. Specific toxicants (or mixtures thereof) may accelerate ALS development following a multistep hypothesis or act synergistically with other service-linked exposures (e.g. head trauma/concussions). Such possibilities could explain the lower age of onset observed in veterans compared to civilians. Identifying high-risk exposures within vulnerable populations is key to understanding ALS etiopathogenesis and is urgently needed to act upon modifiable risk factors for military personnel who deserve enhanced protection during their years of service, not only for their short-term, but also long-term health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane B Re
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Center for Motor Neuron Biology and Disease, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Beizhan Yan
- Department of Geochemistry, Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University, Palisades, NY, USA
| | - Lilian Calderón-Garcidueñas
- Department Biomedical Sciences, College of Health, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
- Universidad del Valle de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Angeline S Andrew
- Department of Neurology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Maeve Tischbein
- Department of Neurology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Elijah W Stommel
- Department of Neurology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA.
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5
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Comparative assessment of blood Metal/metalloid levels, clinical heterogeneity, and disease severity in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients. Neurotoxicology 2022; 89:12-19. [PMID: 35007622 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2022.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is an unremitting neurodegenerative (ND) disease characterized by progressive and fatal loss of motor neuron function. While underlying mechanisms for ALS susceptibility are complex, current understanding suggests that interactions between age, genetic, and environmental factors may be the key. Environmental exposure to metal/metalloids has been implicated in various ND diseases including ALS, Alzheimer's Disease (AD), and Parkinson's Disease (PD). However, most of currently available population-based ALS studies in relation to metal exposure are based on individuals from European ancestry, while East Asian populations, especially cohorts from China, are less well-characterized. This study aims to examine the association between metal/metalloid levels and ALS onset by evaluating blood cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), Cu, Zn, calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and iron (Fe) levels in controls and sporadic ALS patients from North Western China. We report that Cu and Fe levels are found at higher levels in ALS patients compared to the controls. Spinal and bulbar onset patients show significant difference in Ca levels. Moreover, Cd, Pb, Cu, and Ca levels are positively correlated with high disease severity. Results from this study may provide new insights for understanding not only the role of metal/metalloids in ALS susceptibility, but also progression and forms of onset.
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6
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Cheng H, Yang B, Ke T, Li S, Yang X, Aschner M, Chen P. Mechanisms of Metal-Induced Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Neurological Disorders. TOXICS 2021; 9:142. [PMID: 34204190 PMCID: PMC8235163 DOI: 10.3390/toxics9060142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Metals are actively involved in multiple catalytic physiological activities. However, metal overload may result in neurotoxicity as it increases formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and elevates oxidative stress in the nervous system. Mitochondria are a key target of metal-induced toxicity, given their role in energy production. As the brain consumes a large amount of energy, mitochondrial dysfunction and the subsequent decrease in levels of ATP may significantly disrupt brain function, resulting in neuronal cell death and ensuing neurological disorders. Here, we address contemporary studies on metal-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and its impact on the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Cheng
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; (H.C.); (X.Y.)
| | - Bobo Yang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA; (B.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Tao Ke
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA; (B.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Shaojun Li
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China;
| | - Xiaobo Yang
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; (H.C.); (X.Y.)
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, Guangxi University of Science and Technology, Liuzhou 545006, China
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA; (B.Y.); (T.K.)
| | - Pan Chen
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA; (B.Y.); (T.K.)
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7
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Forte G, Bocca B, Pisano A, Collu C, Farace C, Sabalic A, Senofonte M, Fois AG, Mazzarello VL, Pirina P, Madeddu R. The levels of trace elements in sputum as biomarkers for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 271:129514. [PMID: 33434828 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.129514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a rare lung disease that quickly leads to death. This paper addressed the issue of whether the levels of trace elements in sputum samples are suitable biomarkers for IPF disease. The sputum Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn concentrations were measured by sector field inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry in populations sampled in Sardinia Island (Italy) including 31 patients with IPF, 31 patients with other lung-related diseases and 30 age- and gender-matched healthy controls. Risk factors in the disease as gender, age, severity and duration of the disease were assessed. Results showed that IPF patients had significantly increased sputum levels of Cd, Cr, Cu and Pb respect to controls. In males, but not in females, sputum levels of Cd, Cr and Cu were significantly higher in IPF cases respect to controls. In addition, Cr and Pb were increased in male patients with IPF compared to male patients with other lung diseases. Regarding Zn, it was found higher with the more serious stage of disease. Moreover, the ratios Cu/Zn, Fe/Mn and Cu/Mn were significantly increased in IPF patients and in non-IPF patients than in control subjects. These data showed clear increases in the concentration of some trace elements in sputum from patients with IPF and patients with other lung-related diseases that may contribute to the injury. The non-invasiveness of the sputum analysis is beneficial for its use as biomarker of trace element status in diseased patients for both the researcher and the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Forte
- Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute for Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Beatrice Bocca
- Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute for Health, Rome, Italy.
| | - Andrea Pisano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Claudia Collu
- Department of Clinical, Surgical & Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Cristiano Farace
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Angela Sabalic
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Marta Senofonte
- Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute for Health, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Pietro Pirina
- Department of Clinical, Surgical & Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Roberto Madeddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
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8
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Oggiano R, Pisano A, Sabalic A, Farace C, Fenu G, Lintas S, Forte G, Bocca B, Madeddu R. An overview on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and cadmium. Neurol Sci 2020; 42:531-537. [PMID: 33280067 PMCID: PMC7843544 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-020-04957-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The present review represents an update about the knowledge of the possible role of Cadmium (Cd) in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) initiation and its progression. ALS is a neurodegenerative disease that occurs in adulthood; its etiology is unknown and leads to death within a few years from its appearance. Among the various possible causes that can favor the development of the disease, heavy metals cannot be excluded. Cadmium is a heavy metal that does not play a biological role, but its neurotoxicity is well known. Numerous in vitro studies on cell and animal models confirm the toxicity of the metal on the nervous system, but these data are not accompanied by an epidemiological evidence, and, thus, an unclear correlation between Cd and the onset of the disease can be pointed out. On the other hand, a possible multifactorial and synergic mechanism in which Cd may have a role can explain the ALS onset. More efforts in new clinical, biochemical, and epidemiological studies are necessary to better elucidate the involvement of Cd in this lethal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Oggiano
- Department of Biomedical Science - Histology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Andrea Pisano
- Department of Biomedical Science - Histology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Angela Sabalic
- Department of Biomedical Science - Histology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Cristiano Farace
- Department of Biomedical Science - Histology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy.,National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Rome, Italy
| | - Grazia Fenu
- Department of Biomedical Science - Histology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Simone Lintas
- Department of Biomedical Science - Histology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Forte
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Beatrice Bocca
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Madeddu
- Department of Biomedical Science - Histology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy. .,National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Rome, Italy.
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9
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Disease Ionomics: Understanding the Role of Ions in Complex Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228646. [PMID: 33212764 PMCID: PMC7697569 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ionomics is a novel multidisciplinary field that uses advanced techniques to investigate the composition and distribution of all minerals and trace elements in a living organism and their variations under diverse physiological and pathological conditions. It involves both high-throughput elemental profiling technologies and bioinformatic methods, providing opportunities to study the molecular mechanism underlying the metabolism, homeostasis, and cross-talk of these elements. While much effort has been made in exploring the ionomic traits relating to plant physiology and nutrition, the use of ionomics in the research of serious diseases is still in progress. In recent years, a number of ionomic studies have been carried out for a variety of complex diseases, which offer theoretical and practical insights into the etiology, early diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy of them. This review aims to give an overview of recent applications of ionomics in the study of complex diseases and discuss the latest advances and future trends in this area. Overall, disease ionomics may provide substantial information for systematic understanding of the properties of the elements and the dynamic network of elements involved in the onset and development of diseases.
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10
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Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and lead: A systematic update. Neurotoxicology 2020; 81:80-88. [PMID: 32941938 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2020.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Heavy metals are considered to be among the leading environmental factors that trigger amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, no convincing biopathological mechanism and therapeutic clinical implication of such metals in ALS pathogenesis have been established. This is partly attributable to the technical and scientific difficulties in demonstrating a direct and causative role of heavy metals in the onset of ALS in patients. However, a body of epidemiological, clinical and experimental evidences suggest that lead (Pb), more than other metals, could actually play a major role in the onset and progression of ALS. Here, to clarify the nature of the association and the causative role of Pb in ALS, we comprehensively reviewed the scientific literature of the last decade with objective database searches and the methods typically adopted in systematic reviews, critically analysing and summarising the various scientifically sound evidence on the relationship between ALS and Pb. From these tasks, we noted a number of multidisciplinary associations between ALS and Pb, and specifically the importance of occupational exposure to Pb in ALS development and/or progression. We also report the possible involvement of TAR DNA binding protein (TDP-43)-based molecular mechanism in Pb-mediated ALS, although these data rely on a single study, which included both in vitro experiments and an animal model, and are therefore still preliminary. Finally, we briefly examined whether this knowledge could inspire new targeted therapies and policies in the fight against ALS.
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Nicoletti A, Cicero CE, Mostile G, Giuliano L, Luca A, Zappia M. Comment to: Trace elements in ALS patients and their relationships with clinical severity, by Oggiano R. et al. CHEMOSPHERE 2019; 233:986-987. [PMID: 30824159 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.02.112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Revised: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Nicoletti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche, Chirurgiche e Tecnologie Avanzate "G.F. Ingrassia", Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Calogero Edoardo Cicero
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche, Chirurgiche e Tecnologie Avanzate "G.F. Ingrassia", Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanni Mostile
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche, Chirurgiche e Tecnologie Avanzate "G.F. Ingrassia", Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Loretta Giuliano
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche, Chirurgiche e Tecnologie Avanzate "G.F. Ingrassia", Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonina Luca
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche, Chirurgiche e Tecnologie Avanzate "G.F. Ingrassia", Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Mario Zappia
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche, Chirurgiche e Tecnologie Avanzate "G.F. Ingrassia", Università degli Studi di Catania, Catania, Italy
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12
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Bocca B, Ruggieri F, Pino A, Rovira J, Calamandrei G, Martínez MÁ, Domingo JL, Alimonti A, Schuhmacher M. Human biomonitoring to evaluate exposure to toxic and essential trace elements during pregnancy. Part A. concentrations in maternal blood, urine and cord blood. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 177:108599. [PMID: 31374401 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.108599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Revised: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Exposures to toxic elements or deficiencies of essential elements during pregnancy may be associated to various birth complications or even diseases in early life. The aim of this paper was to assess the concentrations of selected toxic (As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Ni, Pb) and essential trace elements (Co, Cu, Mn, Se and Zn) in blood and urine samples of delivering women at different periods of gestation and cord blood, as well as to evaluate the placental permeability for these elements. A total of 53 women participating in the HEALS-EXHES study were enrolled. In particular, 48 blood samples from 1st trimester of pregnancy, 40 blood samples at delivery, and 31 cord blood at delivery were collected. Moreover, mothers' urine were sampled at the 1st (53 samples), 2nd (53 samples) and 3rd trimester (49 samples) of pregnancy. Results showed that Hg and Mn levels in cord blood were about 2.0 times higher than in maternal blood, suggesting that these elements may be transferred from mother to fetus. The cord blood levels of As and Pb were lower (ca. the 65%) than those in maternal blood, showing that the placenta modulates the rate of transfer for these elements. Essential elements as Cu and Zn showed significantly lower levels in cord than in maternal blood suggesting that the transplacental transfer of these nutrients was very limited. In addition, correlation between paired maternal and cord blood samples for As, Hg and Pb was statistically significant indicating that the fetal body burden may reflect the maternal exposure. Cadmium, Co, Cr, Ni and Se levels did not show significant correlations between maternal and cord blood. Maternal urinary concentrations of trace elements, including As, Cr, Cu, Hg, Se and Zn decreased along pregnancy, which may cause variations in fetal exposure. The levels of toxic and essential elements in maternal blood and urine, as well as in cord blood, were for most elements at the lower end of the ranges found in the scientific literature not being of special concern for pregnant women and the unborn.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anna Pino
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Joaquim Rovira
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, IISPV, Universitat Rovira I Virgili, Sant Llorenç 21, 43201, Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament D'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira I Virgili, Av. Països Catalans 26, 43007, Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
| | | | - María Ángeles Martínez
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament D'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira I Virgili, Av. Països Catalans 26, 43007, Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - José L Domingo
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, IISPV, Universitat Rovira I Virgili, Sant Llorenç 21, 43201, Reus, Catalonia, Spain
| | | | - Marta Schuhmacher
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, IISPV, Universitat Rovira I Virgili, Sant Llorenç 21, 43201, Reus, Catalonia, Spain; Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament D'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira I Virgili, Av. Països Catalans 26, 43007, Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
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13
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Verber NS, Shepheard SR, Sassani M, McDonough HE, Moore SA, Alix JJP, Wilkinson ID, Jenkins TM, Shaw PJ. Biomarkers in Motor Neuron Disease: A State of the Art Review. Front Neurol 2019; 10:291. [PMID: 31001186 PMCID: PMC6456669 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Motor neuron disease can be viewed as an umbrella term describing a heterogeneous group of conditions, all of which are relentlessly progressive and ultimately fatal. The average life expectancy is 2 years, but with a broad range of months to decades. Biomarker research deepens disease understanding through exploration of pathophysiological mechanisms which, in turn, highlights targets for novel therapies. It also allows differentiation of the disease population into sub-groups, which serves two general purposes: (a) provides clinicians with information to better guide their patients in terms of disease progression, and (b) guides clinical trial design so that an intervention may be shown to be effective if population variation is controlled for. Biomarkers also have the potential to provide monitoring during clinical trials to ensure target engagement. This review highlights biomarkers that have emerged from the fields of systemic measurements including biochemistry (blood, cerebrospinal fluid, and urine analysis); imaging and electrophysiology, and gives examples of how a combinatorial approach may yield the best results. We emphasize the importance of systematic sample collection and analysis, and the need to correlate biomarker findings with detailed phenotype and genotype data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick S Verber
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Stephanie R Shepheard
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Matilde Sassani
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Harry E McDonough
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Sophie A Moore
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - James J P Alix
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Iain D Wilkinson
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Tom M Jenkins
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Pamela J Shaw
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
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14
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Ralston NV. Effects of soft electrophiles on selenium physiology. Free Radic Biol Med 2018; 127:134-144. [PMID: 30053507 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2018.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Revised: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This review examines the effects of neurotoxic electrophiles on selenium (Se) metabolism. Selenium-dependent enzymes depend on the unique and elite functions of selenocysteine (Sec), the 21st proteinogenic amino acid, to perform their biochemical roles. Humans possess 25 selenoprotein genes, ~ half of which are enzymes (selenoenzymes) required for preventing, controlling, or reversing oxidative damage, while others participate in regulating calcium metabolism, thyroid hormone status, protein folding, cytoskeletal structure, Sec synthesis and Se transport. While selenoproteins are expressed in tissue dependent distributions and levels in all cells of all vertebrates, they are particularly important in brain development, health, and functions. As the most potent intracellular nucleophile, Sec is subject to binding by mercury (Hg) and other electron poor soft neurotoxic electrophiles. Epidemiological and environmental studies of the effects of exposures to methyl-Hg (CH3Hg+), elemental Hg (Hg°), and/or other metallic/organic neurotoxic soft electrophiles need to consider the concomitant effects of all members of this class of toxicants in relation to the Se status of their study populations. The contributions of individual electrophiles' discrete and cooperative rates of Se sequestration need to be evaluated in relation to tissue Se reserves of the exposed populations to identify sensitive subgroups which may be at accentuated risk due to poor Se status. Additional study is required to examine possibilities of inherited, acquired, or degenerative neurological disorders of Se homeostasis that may influence vulnerability to soft electrophile exposures. Investigations of soft electrophile toxicity will be enhanced by considering the concomitant effects of combined exposures on tissue Se-availability in relation to pathological consequences during fetal development or in relation to etiologies of neurological disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. Since selenoenzymes are molecular "targets" of soft electrophiles, concomitant evaluation of aggregate exposures to these toxicants in relation to dietary Se intakes will assist regulatory agencies in their goals of improving and protecting public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Vc Ralston
- Earth System Science and Policy, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, USA.
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15
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Filippini T, Michalke B, Mandrioli J, Tsatsakis AM, Weuve J, Vinceti M. Selenium Neurotoxicity and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: An Epidemiologic Perspective. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-95390-8_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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16
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E. T. Moore R, Rehkämper M, Kreissig K, Strekopytov S, Larner F. Determination of major and trace element variability in healthy human urine by ICP-QMS and specific gravity normalisation. RSC Adv 2018; 8:38022-38035. [PMID: 35558613 PMCID: PMC9089848 DOI: 10.1039/c8ra06794e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Sixty five urine samples obtained during one or two non-consecutive days from 10 healthy individuals were analysed for major (Na, Mg, K, Ca) and trace (Co, Cu, Zn, As, Rb, Sr, Mo and Pb) element concentrations. Following microwave digestion, the analyses were carried out using ICP-QMS (inductively coupled plasma quadrupole mass spectrometry) incorporating a collision/reaction cell. Repeat analyses of quality control samples show that the procedure produces unbiased results and is well suited for routine urinalysis of the investigated elements. Concentrations were normalised using specific gravity (SG) and the resultant decrease in variability supports previous conclusions that SG-normalisation appropriately corrects for differences in urine dilution. The elemental concentrations of the individual urine samples show large differences in dispersion. Most variable are As, Co and Zn, with CVs (coefficients of variation) of >75%. The major elements as well as Rb, Sr and Mo display intermediate variability, whilst Cu and Pb have the least elemental dispersion with CV values of about 30%. A detailed assessment shows that the overall elemental variability is governed both by differences between individuals and variations for a single individual over time. Spot urine samples exhibit elemental concentrations that, on average, resemble the daily mean values to within about 30% for all elements except K and Rb. Diet-related changes in urinary element concentration are most prominent for Mg, K, Co, Rb and Pb. The concentrations of Co, As and Rb appear to vary systematically with gender but this may primarily reflect co-variance with specific diets. Urinary element concentrations were quantified by ICP-QMS and variations over time, between individuals and with gender and diet were assessed.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekah E. T. Moore
- Department of Earth Science and Engineering
- Imperial College London
- London SW7 2AZ
- UK
| | - Mark Rehkämper
- Department of Earth Science and Engineering
- Imperial College London
- London SW7 2AZ
- UK
| | - Katharina Kreissig
- Department of Earth Science and Engineering
- Imperial College London
- London SW7 2AZ
- UK
| | | | - Fiona Larner
- Department of Earth Sciences
- University of Oxford
- Oxford OX1 3AN
- UK
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17
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Maass F, Lingor P. Bioelemental patterns in the cerebrospinal fluid as potential biomarkers for neurodegenerative disorders. Neural Regen Res 2018; 13:1356-1357. [PMID: 30106042 PMCID: PMC6108221 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.235239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Maass
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Germany
| | - Paul Lingor
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Goettingen; Cluster of Excellence Nanoscale Microscopy and Molecular Physiology of the Brain (CNMPB), Goettingen, Germany
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