Characterization of banned colorants in cosmetics: A tandem mass-based molecular networking approach

Liquid mosquito repellent induces toxic effects in zebrafish

Mosquitoes serve as vectors for life-threatening parasitic diseases, presenting a continuous threat throughout human history. This has resulted in the extensive utilization of various mosquito repellents, including liquid mosquito repellents (LMRs), roll-ons, and topical creams. While these products demonstrate significant efficacy, the toxicological implications associated with their use are not yet fully understood and continue to be a subject of debate. The analysis conducted using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) on LMR revealed the presence of 158 distinct compounds, among which were Piperazine 2,5-dimethyl propyl and a range of hydrocarbons. The analysis of network toxicology indicated that 78 of the examined compounds contravened Lipinski's rule of five and exhibited considerable overlap with target genes associated with lung cancer pathways, thereby highlighting potential concerns regarding their carcinogenic properties. The exposure of zebrafish embryos to LMR concentrations between 0.1 and 14 µg/mL resulted in developmental toxicity assays that demonstrated a dose-dependent escalation in mortality rates and the occurrence of morphological abnormalities, such as pericardial edema and skeletal deformities. Behavioral assays demonstrated a marked decrease in locomotor activity at elevated LMR concentrations, indicating potential neurotoxic effects. Biochemical analyses revealed elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), enhanced lipid peroxidation, and diminished glutathione, which are indicative of oxidative stress. Enzyme activity assays indicated a reduction in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities, alongside an increase in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, which suggests the occurrence of cellular damage. Analysis of gene expression demonstrated significant dysregulation in genes associated with oxidative stress (SOD1, CAT), inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-1β), apoptotic regulators (p53, bcl2), and neurobiological genes (brain-derived neurotrophic factor, bdnf). The results highlight the possible health hazards linked to LMR exposure, which manifest as developmental, biochemical, and genetic alterations in zebrafish embryos.

Hues of risk: investigating genotoxicity and environmental impacts of azo textile dyes

The textile industry, with its extensive use of dyes and chemicals, stands out as a significant source of water pollution. Exposure to certain textile dyes, such as azo dyes and their breakdown products like aromatic amines, has been associated with health concerns like skin sensitization, allergic reactions, and even cancer in humans. Annually, the worldwide production of synthetic dyes approximates 7 × 107 tons, of which the textile industry accounts for over 10,000 tons. Inefficient dyeing procedures result in the discharge of 15-50% of azo dyes, which do not adequately bind to fibers, into wastewater. This review delves into the genotoxic impact of azo dyes, prevalent in the textile industry, on aquatic ecosystems and human health. Examining different families of textile dye which contain azo group in their structure such as Sudan I and Sudan III Sudan IV, Basic Red 51, Basic Violet 14, Disperse Yellow 7, Congo Red, Acid Red 26, and Acid Blue 113 reveals their carcinogenic potential, which may affect both industrial workers and aquatic life. Genotoxic and carcinogenic characteristics, chromosomal abnormalities, induced physiological and neurobehavioral changes, and disruptions to spermatogenesis are evident, underscoring the harmful effects of these dyes. The review calls for comprehensive investigations into the toxic profile of azo dyes, providing essential insights to safeguard the aquatic ecosystem and human well-being. The importance of effective effluent treatment systems is underscored to mitigate adverse impacts on agricultural lands, water resources, and the environment, particularly in regions heavily reliant on wastewater irrigation for food production.