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Wei R, Wei P, Yuan H, Yi X, Aschner M, Jiang YM, Li SJ. Inflammation in Metal-Induced Neurological Disorders and Neurodegenerative Diseases. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024:10.1007/s12011-023-04041-z. [PMID: 38206494 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-04041-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Essential metals play critical roles in maintaining human health as they participate in various physiological activities. Nonetheless, both excessive accumulation and deficiency of these metals may result in neurotoxicity secondary to neuroinflammation and the activation of microglia and astrocytes. Activation of these cells can promote the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. It is well known that neuroinflammation plays a critical role in metal-induced neurotoxicity as well as the development of neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and multiple sclerosis (MS). Initially seen as a defense mechanism, persistent inflammatory responses are now considered harmful. Astrocytes and microglia are key regulators of neuroinflammation in the central nervous system, and their excessive activation may induce sustained neuroinflammation. Therefore, in this review, we aim to emphasize the important role and molecular mechanisms underlying metal-induced neurotoxicity. Our objective is to raise the awareness on metal-induced neuroinflammation in neurological disorders. However, it is not only just neuroinflammation that different metals could induce; they can also cause harm to the nervous system through oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy, to name a few. The primary pathophysiological mechanism by which these metals induce neurological disorders remains to be determined. In addition, given the various pathways through which individuals are exposed to metals, it is necessary to also consider the effects of co-exposure to multiple metals on neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruokun Wei
- Toxicology Department, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, 22 Shuang-yong Rd., Nanning, 530021, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environment and Health Research, Guangxi Medical University, 22 Shuang-yong Rd., Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Peiqi Wei
- Toxicology Department, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, 22 Shuang-yong Rd., Nanning, 530021, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environment and Health Research, Guangxi Medical University, 22 Shuang-yong Rd., Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Haiyan Yuan
- Toxicology Department, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, 22 Shuang-yong Rd., Nanning, 530021, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environment and Health Research, Guangxi Medical University, 22 Shuang-yong Rd., Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Xiang Yi
- Toxicology Department, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, 22 Shuang-yong Rd., Nanning, 530021, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environment and Health Research, Guangxi Medical University, 22 Shuang-yong Rd., Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Michael Aschner
- The Department of Molecular Pharmacology at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - Yue-Ming Jiang
- Toxicology Department, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, 22 Shuang-yong Rd., Nanning, 530021, China.
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environment and Health Research, Guangxi Medical University, 22 Shuang-yong Rd., Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China.
| | - Shao-Jun Li
- Toxicology Department, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, 22 Shuang-yong Rd., Nanning, 530021, China.
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environment and Health Research, Guangxi Medical University, 22 Shuang-yong Rd., Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, China.
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Nowak-Szczepanska N, Gomula A, Sebastjan A, Ignasiak Z, Malina RM, Kozieł S. Blood Lead Level and Handgrip Strength in Preadolescent Polish Schoolchildren. TOXICS 2022; 10:646. [PMID: 36355938 PMCID: PMC9693293 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10110646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Environmental pollutions, particularly toxic elements such as lead, are among the most significant factors affecting the growth and functional development of children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of blood lead levels on handgrip strength (HGS) in urban children resident in the Copper Basin of Lower Silesia, Poland, controlling for the effects of chronological age, body size and socioeconomic status. The study included 165 boys (9−11 years of age) and 79 girls (9−10 years of age) from Polkowice town. Anthropometric measurements involved height, body mass and grip strength of the left and right hands. Maternal education was a proxy for socioeconomic status. Based on the median value of blood lead level (3.10 µg/dL), the two groups-below and above/equal median value-were defined. Analysis of covariance revealed that age (all p < 0.001), sex (at least p < 0.01), BMI (all p < 0.001), and blood lead level (at least p < 0.05) had a significant effect on the three indicators of HGS (right hand, left hand, average), while the level of maternal education did not significantly affect HGS (p > 0.05). The results of this study indicate a potentially negative effect of elevated blood lead level on grip strength in preadolescent children, irrespective of sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Nowak-Szczepanska
- Department of Anthropology, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Gomula
- Department of Anthropology, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Anna Sebastjan
- Department of Biostructure, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, 51-612 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Zofia Ignasiak
- Department of Biostructure, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, 51-612 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Robert M. Malina
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Sławomir Kozieł
- Department of Anthropology, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wroclaw, Poland
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Shandilya A, Mehan S, Kumar S, Sethi P, Narula AS, Alshammari A, Alharbi M, Alasmari AF. Activation of IGF-1/GLP-1 Signalling via 4-Hydroxyisoleucine Prevents Motor Neuron Impairments in Experimental ALS-Rats Exposed to Methylmercury-Induced Neurotoxicity. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27123878. [PMID: 35745001 PMCID: PMC9228431 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27123878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a severe adult motor neuron disease that causes progressive neuromuscular atrophy, muscle wasting, weakness, and depressive-like symptoms. Our previous research suggests that mercury levels are directly associated with ALS progression. MeHg+-induced ALS is characterised by oligodendrocyte destruction, myelin basic protein (MBP) depletion, and white matter degeneration, leading to demyelination and motor neuron death. The selection of MeHg+ as a potential neurotoxicant is based on our evidence that it has been connected to the development of ALS-like characteristics. It causes glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity, calcium-dependent neurotoxicity, and an ALS-like phenotype. Dysregulation of IGF-1/GLP-1 signalling has been associated with ALS progression. The bioactive amino acid 4-hydroxyisoleucine (HI) from Trigonella foenum graecum acts as an insulin mimic in rodents and increases insulin sensitivity. This study examined the neuroprotective effects of 4-HI on MeHg+-treated adult Wistar rats with ALS-like symptoms, emphasising brain IGF1/GLP-1 activation. Furthermore, we investigated the effect of 4-HI on MBP levels in rat brain homogenate, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), blood plasma, and cell death indicators such as caspase-3, Bax, and Bcl-2. Rats were assessed for muscular strength, locomotor deficits, depressed behaviour, and spatial learning in the Morris water maze (MWM) to measure neurobehavioral abnormalities. Doses of 4-HI were given orally for 42 days in the MeHg+ rat model at 50 mg/kg or 100 mg/kg to ameliorate ALS-like neurological dysfunctions. Additionally, neurotransmitters and oxidative stress markers were examined in rat brain homogenates. Our findings suggest that 4-HI has neuroprotective benefits in reducing MeHg+-induced behavioural, neurochemical, and histopathological abnormalities in ALS-like rats exposed to methylmercury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ambika Shandilya
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga 142001, Punjab, India; (A.S.); (S.K.); (P.S.)
| | - Sidharth Mehan
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga 142001, Punjab, India; (A.S.); (S.K.); (P.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Sumit Kumar
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga 142001, Punjab, India; (A.S.); (S.K.); (P.S.)
| | - Pranshul Sethi
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga 142001, Punjab, India; (A.S.); (S.K.); (P.S.)
| | - Acharan S. Narula
- Narula Research, LLC, 107 Boulder Bluff, Chapel Hill, NC 27516, USA;
| | - Abdulrahman Alshammari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Post Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.); (M.A.); (A.F.A.)
| | - Metab Alharbi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Post Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.); (M.A.); (A.F.A.)
| | - Abdullah F. Alasmari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Post Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.); (M.A.); (A.F.A.)
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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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Zakharova MN, Bakulin IS, Abramova AA. Toxic Damage to Motor Neurons. NEUROCHEM J+ 2021. [DOI: 10.1134/s1819712421040164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstract—Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a multifactor disease in the development of which both genetic and environmental factors play a role. Specifically, the effects of organic and inorganic toxic substances can result in an increased risk of ALS development and the acceleration of disease progression. It was described that some toxins can induce potentially curable ALS-like syndromes. In this case, the specific treatment for the prevention of the effects of the toxic factor may result in positive clinical dynamics. In this article, we review the main types of toxins that can damage motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord leading to the development of the clinical manifestation of ALS, briefly present historical data on studies on the role of toxic substances, and describe the main mechanisms of the pathogenesis of motor neuron disease associated with their action.
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Koski L, Ronnevi C, Berntsson E, Wärmländer SKTS, Roos PM. Metals in ALS TDP-43 Pathology. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12193. [PMID: 34830074 PMCID: PMC8622279 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and similar neurodegenerative disorders take their toll on patients, caregivers and society. A common denominator for these disorders is the accumulation of aggregated proteins in nerve cells, yet the triggers for these aggregation processes are currently unknown. In ALS, protein aggregation has been described for the SOD1, C9orf72, FUS and TDP-43 proteins. The latter is a nuclear protein normally binding to both DNA and RNA, contributing to gene expression and mRNA life cycle regulation. TDP-43 seems to have a specific role in ALS pathogenesis, and ubiquitinated and hyperphosphorylated cytoplasmic inclusions of aggregated TDP-43 are present in nerve cells in almost all sporadic ALS cases. ALS pathology appears to include metal imbalances, and environmental metal exposure is a known risk factor in ALS. However, studies on metal-to-TDP-43 interactions are scarce, even though this protein seems to have the capacity to bind to metals. This review discusses the possible role of metals in TDP-43 aggregation, with respect to ALS pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lassi Koski
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | | | - Elina Berntsson
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden;
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn University of Technology, 12616 Tallinn, Estonia
| | | | - Per M. Roos
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden;
- Capio St. Göran Hospital, 112 19 Stockholm, Sweden;
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7
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Methylmercury, oxidative stress, and neurodegeneration. Toxicology 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-819092-0.00015-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Colón-Rodríguez A, Colón-Carrión NM, Atchison WD. AMPA receptor contribution to methylmercury-mediated alteration of intracellular Ca 2+ concentration in human induced pluripotent stem cell motor neurons. Neurotoxicology 2020; 81:116-126. [PMID: 32991939 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2020.09.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
α motor neurons (MNs) are a target of the environmental neurotoxicant methylmercury (MeHg), accumulating MeHg and subsequently degenerating. In mouse spinal cord MN cultures, MeHg increased intracellular Ca2+ [Ca2+]i; the AMPA receptor (AMPAR) antagonist CNQX delayed the increase in [Ca2+]i, implicating the role of AMPARs in this response. Here we used human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived MNs (hiPSC-MNs), to characterize the role of MN AMPARs in MeHg neurotoxicity. Acute exposure to MeHg (0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1 and 1.5 μM), fura-2 microfluorimetry, and a standard cytotoxicity assay, were used to examine MN regulation of [Ca2+]i, and cytotoxicity, respectively. Contribution of Ca2+-permeable and impermeable AMPARs was compared using either CNQX, or the Ca2+-permeable AMPAR antagonist N-acetyl spermine (NAS). MeHg-induced cytotoxicity was evaluated following a 24 h delay subsequent to 1 h exposure of hiPSC-MNs. MeHg caused a characteristic biphasic increase in [Ca2+]i, the onset of which was concentration-dependent; higher MeHg concentrations hastened onset of both phases. CNQX significantly delayed MeHg's effect on onset time of both phases. In contrast, NAS significantly delayed only the 2nd phase increase in fura-2 fluorescence. Exposure to MeHg for 1 h followed by a 24 h recovery period caused a concentration-dependent incidence of cell death. These results demonstrate for the first time that hiPSC-derived MNs are highly sensitive to effects of MeHg on [Ca2+]i, and cytotoxicity, and that both Ca2+-permeable and impermeable AMPARs contribute the elevations in [Ca2+]i.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Colón-Rodríguez
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, 1355 Bogue St., B338 Life Science Bldg., East Lansing, MI 48824, United States; Institute for Integrative Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, 1355 Bogue St., B338 Life Science Bldg., East Lansing, MI 48824, United States; Comparative Medicine and Integrative Biology Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, 1355 Bogue St., B331 Life Science Bldg., East Lansing, MI 48824, United States.
| | - Nicole M Colón-Carrión
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, 1355 Bogue St., B338 Life Science Bldg., East Lansing, MI 48824, United States.
| | - William D Atchison
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, 1355 Bogue St., B338 Life Science Bldg., East Lansing, MI 48824, United States; Institute for Integrative Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, 1355 Bogue St., B338 Life Science Bldg., East Lansing, MI 48824, United States; Comparative Medicine and Integrative Biology Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, 1355 Bogue St., B331 Life Science Bldg., East Lansing, MI 48824, United States.
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9
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Andrew AS, O’Brien KM, Jackson BP, Sandler DP, Kaye WE, Wagner L, Stommel EW, Horton DK, Mehta P, Weinberg CR. Keratinous biomarker of mercury exposure associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis risk in a nationwide U.S. study. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2020; 21:420-427. [DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2020.1753777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Katie M. O’Brien
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, NC, USA,
| | - Brian P. Jackson
- Department of Earth Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA,
| | - Dale P. Sandler
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, NC, USA,
| | | | | | | | - D. Kevin Horton
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Paul Mehta
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), Atlanta, GA, USA
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Sceniak MP, Spitsbergen JB, Sabo SL, Yuan Y, Atchison WD. Acute neurotoxicant exposure induces hyperexcitability in mouse lumbar spinal motor neurons. J Neurophysiol 2020; 123:1448-1459. [PMID: 32159428 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00775.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal motor neurons (MNs) are susceptible to glutamatergic excitotoxicity, an effect associated with lumbar MN degeneration in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). MN susceptibility to environmental toxicant exposure, one prospective contributor to sporadic ALS, has not been systematically studied. The goal of this study was to test the ability of a well-known environmental neurotoxicant to induce hyperexcitability in mouse lumbar MNs. Methylmercury (MeHg) causes neurotoxicity through mechanisms involving elevated intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), a hallmark of excitotoxicity. We tested whether acute exposure to MeHg induces hyperexcitability in MNs by altering synaptic transmission, using whole cell patch-clamp recordings of lumbar spinal MNs in vitro. Acute MeHg exposure (20 μM) led to an increase in the frequency of both spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) and miniature EPSCs. The frequency of inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) was also increased by MeHg. Action potential firing rates, both spontaneous and evoked, were increased by MeHg, despite increases in both EPSCs and IPSCs, indicating a shift toward hyperexcitability. Also consistent with hyperexcitability, fluo 4-AM microfluorimetry indicated that MeHg exposure induced an increase in [Ca2+]i. Spinal cord hyperexcitability is partially mediated by Ca2+-permeable AMPA receptors, as MeHg-dependent increases in EPSCs were blocked by 1-napthyl spermine. Therefore, spinal MNs appear highly susceptible to MeHg exposure, leading to significant increases in spontaneous network excitability and disruption of normal function. Prolonged hyperexcitability could lead to eventual neurodegeneration and loss of motor function as observed in spinal cord after MeHg exposure in vivo and may contribute to MeHg-induced acceleration of ALS symptoms.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Spinal motor neurons (MN) are susceptible to glutamatergic excitotoxicity, an effect associated with lumbar MN degeneration in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This study investigated MN susceptibility to environmental toxicant exposure, one prospective contributor to sporadic ALS. Spinal MNs appear highly susceptible to methylmercury exposure, leading to significant increases in spontaneous network excitability and disruption of normal function. Prolonged hyperexcitability could lead to neurodegeneration and loss of motor function as observed in ALS spinal cord symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Sceniak
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan.,Department of Biology, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, Michigan
| | - Jake B Spitsbergen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Shasta L Sabo
- Department of Biology, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, Michigan
| | - Yukun Yuan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
| | - William D Atchison
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
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11
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Portaro S, Naro A, Giorgianni R, Mazzon E, Calabrò RS. Heavy metal intoxication and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: causal or casual relationship? Aging Clin Exp Res 2020; 32:351-352. [PMID: 30900214 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-019-01177-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Simona Portaro
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", S.S. 113, Contrada Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Antonino Naro
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", S.S. 113, Contrada Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Roberto Giorgianni
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", S.S. 113, Contrada Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Emanuela Mazzon
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", S.S. 113, Contrada Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
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12
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Khan F, Momtaz S, Abdollahi M. The relationship between mercury exposure and epigenetic alterations regarding human health, risk assessment and diagnostic strategies. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2019; 52:37-47. [PMID: 30732897 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2018.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to the environmental toxicants poses a serious threat to human health. The extent of exposure and the development of diseases are interrelated with each other. Chronic exposure to mercury (Hg) increases the risk of developing serious human disorders from embryo to adulthood. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this review is to highlight the most common human disorders induced by Hg exposure on the basis of epigenetic mechanisms. A growing body of evidence shows that Hg exposure leads to alterations in the epigenetic markers. METHODS We performed an organized search of the available literature using PubMed, Google Scholar, Medline, Reaxys, EMBASE and Scopus databases. All the relevant citations, including research and review articles in English were evaluated. The search terms included mercury, Hg, epigenetics, epigenetic alterations, DNA methylation, histone modifications, microRNAs (miRNAs), and risk assessment. RESULTS Data on human toxicity due to Hg exposure shows broad variations in terms of chemical nature, doses, and the rate of exposure. Hg consumption either via foods or environmental sources may create deleterious health effects on various physiological systems at least partially through an epigenetic mechanism. CONCLUSION Hg exposure could trigger epigenetic alterations, hence leading to various human disorders including reduced newborn cerebellum size, adverse behavioral outcomes, atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction. Similarly, in adults, occupational Hg exposure has been associated with an increased risk of autoimmunity. It has been revealed that miRNAs in the woman's cervix are a novel responder to maternal Hg exposure during pregnancy. Hg-induced epigenetic alterations analysis of kidney tissues showed a significant interruption in renal function. DNA methylation and histone post-translation modifications are predominant types of Hg epigenetic alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fazlullah Khan
- Toxicology and Diseases Group, The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran; Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeideh Momtaz
- Medicinal Plants Research Center, Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR, Karaj, Iran; Toxicology and Diseases Group, The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Abdollahi
- Toxicology and Diseases Group, The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran; Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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13
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Cariccio VL, Samà A, Bramanti P, Mazzon E. Mercury Involvement in Neuronal Damage and in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Biol Trace Elem Res 2019; 187:341-356. [PMID: 29777524 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-018-1380-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and multiple sclerosis are characterized by a chronic and selective process of neuronal cell death. Although the causes of neurodegenerative diseases remain still unknown, it is now a well-established idea that more factors, such as genetic, endogenous, and environmental, are involved. Among environmental causes, the accumulation of mercury, a heavy metal considered a toxic agent, was largely studied as a probable factor involved in neurodegenerative disease course. Mercury exists in three main forms: elemental mercury, inorganic mercury, and organic mercury (methylmercury and ethylmercury). Sources of elemental mercury can be natural (volcanic emission) or anthropogenic (coal-fired electric utilities, waste combustion, hazardous-waste incinerators, and gold extraction). Moreover, mercury is still used as an antiseptic, as a medical preservative, and as a fungicide. Dental amalgam can emit mercury vapor. Mercury vapor, being highly volatile and lipid soluble, can cross the blood-brain barrier and the lipid cell membranes and can be accumulated into the cells in its inorganic forms. Also, methylmercury can pass through blood-brain and placental barriers, causing serious damage in the central nervous system. This review describes the toxic effects of mercury in cell cultures, in animal models, and in patients with neurodegenerative diseases. In vitro experiments showed that mercury exposure was principally involved in oxidative stress and apoptotic processes. Moreover, motor and cognitive impairment and neural loss have been confirmed in various studies performed in animal models. Finally, observational studies on patients with neurodegenerative diseases showed discordant data about a possible mercury involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Lanza Cariccio
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", Via Provinciale Palermo, Contrada Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Annalisa Samà
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", Via Provinciale Palermo, Contrada Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Placido Bramanti
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", Via Provinciale Palermo, Contrada Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Emanuela Mazzon
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", Via Provinciale Palermo, Contrada Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy.
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Resveratrol treatment reduces the vulnerability of SH-SY5Y cells and cortical neurons overexpressing SOD1-G93A to Thimerosal toxicity through SIRT1/DREAM/PDYN pathway. Neurotoxicology 2018; 71:6-15. [PMID: 30503815 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2018.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In humans, mutation of glycine 93 to alanine of Cu++/Zn++ superoxide dismutase type-1 (SOD1-G93 A) has been associated to some familial cases of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Several evidence proposed the involvement of environmental pollutants that like mercury could accelerate ALS symptoms. SH-SY5Y cells stably transfected with SOD1 and G93 A mutant of SOD1 constructs were exposed to non-toxic concentrations (0.01 μM) of ethylmercury thiosalicylate (thimerosal) for 24 h. Interestingly, we found that thimerosal, in SOD1-G93 A cells, but not in SOD1 cells, reduced cell survival. Furthermore, thimerosal-induced cell death occurred in a concentration dependent-manner and was prevented by the Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) activator Resveratrol (RSV). Moreover, thimerosal decreased the protein expression of transcription factor Downstream Regulatory Element Antagonist Modulator (DREAM), but not DREAM gene. Interestingly, DREAM reduction was blocked by co-treatment with RSV, suggesting the participation of SIRT1 in determining this effect. Immunoprecipitation experiments in SOD1-G93 A cells exposed to thimerosal demonstrated that RSV increased DREAM deacetylation and reduced its polyubiquitination. In addition, RSV counteracted thimerosal-enhanced prodynorphin (PDYN) mRNA, a DREAM target gene. Furthermore, cortical neurons transiently transfected with SOD1-G93 A construct and exposed to thimerosal (0.5 μM/24 h) showed a reduction of DREAM and an up-regulation of the prodynorphin gene. Importantly, both the treatment with RSV or the transfection of siRNA against prodynorphin significantly reduced thimerosal-induced neurotoxicity, while DREAM knocking-down potentiated thimerosal-reduced cell survival. These results demonstrate the particular vulnerability of SOD1-G93 A neuronal cells to thimerosal and that RSV via SIRT1 counteracts the neurodetrimental effect of this toxicant by preventing DREAM reduction and prodynorphin up-regulation.
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Sánchez-Díaz G, Escobar F, Badland H, Arias-Merino G, Posada de la Paz M, Alonso-Ferreira V. Geographic Analysis of Motor Neuron Disease Mortality and Heavy Metals Released to Rivers in Spain. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:E2522. [PMID: 30423874 PMCID: PMC6266970 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15112522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Revised: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The etiology of motor neuron disease (MND) is still unknown. The aims of this study were to: (1) analyze MND mortality at a fine-grained level; and (2) explore associations of MND and heavy metals released into Spanish river basins. MND deaths were extracted from the Spanish nationwide mortality registry (2007⁻2016). Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) for MND were estimated at a municipal level. Sites that emitted quantities of heavy metals above the regulatory thresholds were obtained from the European Pollutant Release and Transfer Register database (2007⁻2015). The relative risks for non-exposed and exposed municipalities (considering a downstream 20 km river section) by type of heavy metal were analyzed using a log-linear model. SMRs were significantly higher in central and northern municipalities. SMRs were 1.14 (1.10⁻1.17) higher in areas exposed to heavy metals than in non-exposed areas: 0.95 (0.92⁻0.96). Considering the different metals, we found the following increased MND death risks in exposed areas: 20.9% higher risk for lead, 20.0% for zinc, 16.7% for arsenic, 15.7% for chromium, 15.4% for cadmium, 12.7% for copper, and 12.4% for mercury. This study provides associations between MND death risk and heavy metals in exposed municipalities. Further studies investigating heavy metal exposure are needed to progress in MND understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Germán Sánchez-Díaz
- Institute of Rare Diseases Research (IIER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain.
- Department of Geology, Geography and Environmental Sciences, University of Alcala, Alcalá de Henares 28801, Spain.
- Centre for Biomedical Network Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Madrid 28029, Spain.
| | - Francisco Escobar
- Department of Geology, Geography and Environmental Sciences, University of Alcala, Alcalá de Henares 28801, Spain.
| | - Hannah Badland
- Healthy Liveable Cities Group, Centre for Urban Research, RMIT University, Melbourne VIC 3001, Australia.
| | - Greta Arias-Merino
- Institute of Rare Diseases Research (IIER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain.
| | - Manuel Posada de la Paz
- Institute of Rare Diseases Research (IIER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain.
- Centre for Biomedical Network Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Madrid 28029, Spain.
| | - Verónica Alonso-Ferreira
- Institute of Rare Diseases Research (IIER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain.
- Centre for Biomedical Network Research on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Madrid 28029, Spain.
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Riancho J, Bosque-Varela P, Perez-Pereda S, Povedano M, de Munaín AL, Santurtun A. The increasing importance of environmental conditions in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2018; 62:1361-1374. [PMID: 29713861 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-018-1550-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Revised: 04/15/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons (MNs). Although a small percentage of ALS has a familial origin, the vast majority of cases are sporadic in which genetic factors and environment interact with each other leading to disease onset in genetically predisposed individuals. In the current model of the disease, each individual has a determined genetic load, some degree of cell degeneration related to age and several risky environmental exposures. In this scenario, MN degeneration would occur when the sum of these factors reach a certain threshold. To date, an extensive list of environmental factors has been associated to ALS, including different categories, such as exposure to heavy metals and other toxicants, cyanotoxins or infectious agents. In addition, in recent years, lifestyle and other demographic parameters are gaining relevance in the genesis of the disease. Among them, physical activity, nutrition, body mass index, cardiovascular risk factors, autoimmune diseases and cancer are some of the conditions which have been related to the disease. In this review, we will discuss the potential mechanisms of environmental conditions in motor neuron degeneration. Understanding the role of each one of these factors as well as their interactions appears as a crucial step in order to develop new preventive, diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for ALS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Riancho
- Service of Neurology, Hospital Sierrallana, Institute of Research Valdecilla (IDIVAL), Torrelavega, Spain.
- Department of Medicine, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, CIBERNED, Instituto Carlos III, Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Pilar Bosque-Varela
- Service of Neurology, University Hospital Marques de Valdecilla, Santander, Spain
| | - Sara Perez-Pereda
- Service of Neurology, University Hospital Marques de Valdecilla, Santander, Spain
| | - Mónica Povedano
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, CIBERNED, Instituto Carlos III, Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness, Madrid, Spain
- Service of Neurology-Motor Neuron Unit, IDIBELL, Bellvitge University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Adolfo López de Munaín
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, CIBERNED, Instituto Carlos III, Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness, Madrid, Spain
- ALS Multidisciplinary Unit, Hospital Donostia- Neuroscience Area, Donostia Health Research Institute, San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Ana Santurtun
- Toxicology Unit, Physiology and Farmacology Department, University of Cantabria-IDIVAL, Santander, Spain
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Oggiano R, Solinas G, Forte G, Bocca B, Farace C, Pisano A, Sotgiu MA, Clemente S, Malaguarnera M, Fois AG, Pirina P, Montella A, Madeddu R. Trace elements in ALS patients and their relationships with clinical severity. CHEMOSPHERE 2018; 197:457-466. [PMID: 29366958 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.01.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2017] [Revised: 01/06/2018] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
An exploratory study of trace elements in ALS and their relationships with clinical severity was detected. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder that causes irreversible damage in humans, with the consequent loss of function of motoneurons (MNs), with a prognosis up to 5 years after diagnosis. Except to genetic rare cases it is not known the etiology of the disorder. Aim of our research is to investigate the possible role of heavy metals in the severity of the disease. In this study, by the use of plasma mass (ICP-MS), we have analyzed the content of essential and heavy metals such: Pb, Cd, Al, Hg, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Se, Mg, and Ca, in blood, urine and hair of ALS patients and controls; moreover we divided the patients in two groups for disease severity and analyzed the difference among the groups, in order to study a possible involvement of metals in the severity of the damage. Our results suggest a protective role of Selenium, involved in protective antioxidant mechanisms, and a risk factor in the case of presence of Lead in blood. The levels of the other metals are not easy to interpret, because these may be due to life style and for essential metals a consequence of the disease condition, not a cause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Oggiano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences - Histology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giuliana Solinas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences - Hygiene, 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
| | - Cristiano Farace
- Department of Biomedical Sciences - Histology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Andrea Pisano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences - Histology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | | | | | - Michele Malaguarnera
- Department of Medical and Pediatric Science, Research Centre "The Great Senescence", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Alessandro Giuseppe Fois
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Institute of Respiratory Diseases, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Pietro Pirina
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Institute of Respiratory Diseases, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Andrea Montella
- Department of Biomedical Sciences- Human Anatomy, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Roberto Madeddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences - Histology, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy; National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Rome, Italy.
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Ho DT, Russell JA. Mercury and motor neuron disease: Hooked on a hypothesis. Muscle Nerve 2018; 58:7-9. [PMID: 29443385 DOI: 10.1002/mus.26100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Doreen T Ho
- Department of Neurology, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James A Russell
- Department of Neurology, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington, Massachusetts, USA
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Andrew AS, Chen CY, Caller TA, Tandan R, Henegan PL, Jackson BP, Hall BP, Bradley WG, Stommel EW. Toenail mercury Levels are associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis risk. Muscle Nerve 2018; 58:10.1002/mus.26055. [PMID: 29314106 PMCID: PMC6034986 DOI: 10.1002/mus.26055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Revised: 12/27/2017] [Accepted: 12/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mercury is a neurotoxic metal that is potentially a risk factor for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Consumption of methylmercury contaminated fish is the primary source of US population exposure to mercury. METHODS We used inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry to measure levels of mercury in toenail samples from patients with ALS (n = 46) and from controls (n = 66) as a biomarker of mercury exposure. RESULTS Patients with ALS had higher toenail mercury levels (odds ratio 2.49, 95% confidence interval 1.18-5.80, P = 0.024) compared with controls, adjusted for age and sex. We also estimated the amount of mercury consumed from finfish and shellfish and found toenail mercury levels elevated overall among patients with ALS and controls in the top quartile for consumption (P = 0.018). DISCUSSION Biomarker data show that ALS is associated with increased with mercury levels, which were related to estimated methylmercury intake via fish. Replication of these associations in additional populations is warranted. Muscle Nerve, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angeline S. Andrew
- Department of Neurology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH
| | - Celia Y. Chen
- Departments of Biological Sciences, Earth Science, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH
| | - Tracie A. Caller
- Cheyenne Regional Medical Center, Medical Specialty Clinic, Cheyenne, WY
| | - Rup Tandan
- Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT
| | - Patricia L. Henegan
- Department of Neurology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH
| | - Brian P. Jackson
- Departments of Biological Sciences, Earth Science, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH
| | - Brenda P. Hall
- Department of Neurology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH
| | - Walter G. Bradley
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Elijah W. Stommel
- Department of Neurology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH
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Bailey JM, Colón-Rodríguez A, Atchison WD. Evaluating a Gene-Environment Interaction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Methylmercury Exposure and Mutated SOD1. Curr Environ Health Rep 2017; 4:200-207. [PMID: 28397096 DOI: 10.1007/s40572-017-0144-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Gene-environment (GxE) interactions likely contribute to numerous diseases, but are often difficult to model in the laboratory. Such interactions have been widely hypothesized for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS); recent controlled laboratory studies are discussed here and hypotheses related to possible mechanisms of action are offered. Using methylmercury exposure and mutated SOD1 to model the impacts of such an interaction, we interpret evidence about their respective mechanisms of toxicity to interrogate the possibility of additive (or synergistic) effects when combined. RECENT FINDINGS Recent work has converged on mechanisms of calcium-mediated glutamate excitotoxicity as a likely contributor in one model of a gene-environment interaction affecting the onset and progression of ALS-like phenotype. The current experimental literature on mechanisms of metal-induced neuronal injury and their relevant interactions with genetic contributions in ALS is sparse, but we describe those studies here and offer several integrative hypotheses about the likely mechanisms involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan M Bailey
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824-1317, USA.,Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824-1317, USA
| | - Alexandra Colón-Rodríguez
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824-1317, USA.,Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824-1317, USA.,Comparative Medicine and Integrative Biology Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824-1317, USA
| | - William D Atchison
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824-1317, USA. .,Institute for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824-1317, USA. .,Comparative Medicine and Integrative Biology Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824-1317, USA. .,, Life Science Building, 1355 Bogue St. Room B331A, East Lansing, MI, 48824-1317, USA.
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Wang MD, Little J, Gomes J, Cashman NR, Krewski D. Identification of risk factors associated with onset and progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis using systematic review and meta-analysis. Neurotoxicology 2017; 61:101-130. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2016.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 06/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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22
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Colón-Rodríguez A, Hannon HE, Atchison WD. Effects of methylmercury on spinal cord afferents and efferents-A review. Neurotoxicology 2017; 60:308-320. [PMID: 28041893 PMCID: PMC5447474 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2016.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Revised: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is an environmental neurotoxicant of public health concern. It readily accumulates in exposed humans, primarily in neuronal tissue. Exposure to MeHg, either acutely or chronically, causes severe neuronal dysfunction in the central nervous system and spinal neurons; dysfunction of susceptible neuronal populations results in neurodegeneration, at least in part through Ca2+-mediated pathways. Biochemical and morphologic changes in peripheral neurons precede those in central brain regions, despite the fact that MeHg readily crosses the blood-brain barrier. Consequently, it is suggested that unique characteristics of spinal cord afferents and efferents could heighten their susceptibility to MeHg toxicity. Transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels are a class of Ca2+-permeable cation channels that are highly expressed in spinal afferents, among other sensory and visceral organs. These channels can be activated in numerous ways, including directly via chemical irritants or indirectly via Ca2+ release from intracellular storage organelles. Early studies demonstrated that MeHg interacts with heterologous TRP channels, though definitive mechanisms of MeHg toxicity on sensory neurons may involve more complex interaction with, and among, differentially-expressed TRP populations. In spinal efferents, glutamate receptors of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA), and possibly kainic acid (KA) classes are thought to play a major role in MeHg-induced neurotoxicity. Specifically, the Ca2+-permeable AMPA receptors, which are abundant in motor neurons, have been identified as being involved in MeHg-induced neurotoxicity. In this review, we will describe the mechanisms that could contribute to MeHg-induced spinal cord afferent and efferent neuronal degeneration, including the possible mediators, such as uniquely expressed Ca2+-permeable ion channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Colón-Rodríguez
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 1355 Bogue Street, Life Sciences Building Rm. B440, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States; Institute for Integrative Toxicology, 1129 Farm Lane, Food Safety and Toxicology Rm. 165, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States; Comparative Medicine and Integrative Biology Program, 784 Wilson Road, Veterinary Medical Center Rm. G-100, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States.
| | - Heidi E Hannon
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 1355 Bogue Street, Life Sciences Building Rm. B440, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States; Institute for Integrative Toxicology, 1129 Farm Lane, Food Safety and Toxicology Rm. 165, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States; Comparative Medicine and Integrative Biology Program, 784 Wilson Road, Veterinary Medical Center Rm. G-100, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States.
| | - William D Atchison
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 1355 Bogue Street, Life Sciences Building Rm. B440, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States; Institute for Integrative Toxicology, 1129 Farm Lane, Food Safety and Toxicology Rm. 165, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States; Comparative Medicine and Integrative Biology Program, 784 Wilson Road, Veterinary Medical Center Rm. G-100, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States.
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Pierozan P, Biasibetti H, Schmitz F, Ávila H, Fernandes CG, Pessoa-Pureur R, Wyse ATS. Neurotoxicity of Methylmercury in Isolated Astrocytes and Neurons: the Cytoskeleton as a Main Target. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:5752-5767. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-0101-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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24
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Zufiría M, Gil-Bea FJ, Fernández-Torrón R, Poza JJ, Muñoz-Blanco JL, Rojas-García R, Riancho J, López de Munain A. ALS: A bucket of genes, environment, metabolism and unknown ingredients. Prog Neurobiol 2016; 142:104-129. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2016.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Revised: 03/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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25
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Nicoletti A, Vasta R, Venti V, Mostile G, Lo Fermo S, Patti F, Scillieri R, De Cicco D, Volanti P, Marziolo R, Maimone D, Fiore M, Ferrante M, Zappia M. The epidemiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in the Mount Etna region: a possible pathogenic role of volcanogenic metals. Eur J Neurol 2016; 23:964-72. [PMID: 26924209 DOI: 10.1111/ene.12973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2015] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Trace elements (TEs) may play a role in the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and volcanic degassing is the major natural source of TEs. Mount Etna, in the province of Catania, is the largest active volcano in Europe. Our aim was to assess the incidence of ALS in the province of Catania during 2005-2010 and its spatial distribution with respect to volcanic gas deposition. METHODS Cases from all neurological centres of the province of Catania and of the boundary provinces were retrospectively collected. Patients who had onset during 2005-2010 and fulfilled the El Escorial revised diagnostic criteria were included. The incidence of ALS was estimated for the entire province and separately for the population living on the eastern and western flank of Mount Etna, respectively, the most and least exposed areas to volcanogenic TEs, considered as a possible risk factor for ALS. RESULTS One hundred and twenty-six (57 men) ALS patients were enrolled. The mean annual crude incidence rate was 2.0/100 000 person-years (95% confidence interval 1.7-2.4). A higher incidence rate was found in the population living on the eastern flank compared to the western flank (2.4/100 000 and 0.9/100 000 respectively) with a relative risk of 2.75 (95% confidence interval 1.64-4.89; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The incidence of ALS in the province of Catania is close to those reported worldwide. The incidence was higher amongst the population living on the eastern flank of Mount Etna, which could be interpreted as a possible role of volcanogenic TEs. Further research on TEs and genetic factors is necessary to support this assumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Nicoletti
- Section of Neurosciences, Department GF Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - R Vasta
- Section of Neurosciences, Department GF Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - V Venti
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - G Mostile
- Section of Neurosciences, Department GF Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - S Lo Fermo
- Section of Neurosciences, Department GF Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - F Patti
- Section of Neurosciences, Department GF Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - R Scillieri
- Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale di Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - D De Cicco
- Intensive Neurorehabilitation Unit, ALS Centre, IRCCS 'Salvatore Maugeri' Foundation, Mistretta, Italy
| | - P Volanti
- Intensive Neurorehabilitation Unit, ALS Centre, IRCCS 'Salvatore Maugeri' Foundation, Mistretta, Italy
| | - R Marziolo
- Neurology Unit, Cannizzaro Hospital, Catania, Italy
| | - D Maimone
- Department of Neurology, Garibaldi Hospital, Catania, Italy
| | - M Fiore
- Environmental and Food Hygiene Laboratory - LIAA, Department GF Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - M Ferrante
- Environmental and Food Hygiene Laboratory - LIAA, Department GF Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - M Zappia
- Section of Neurosciences, Department GF Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Lin M, Cho M, Choe WS, Lee Y. Electrochemical Detection of Lead Ion Based on a Peptide Modified Electrode. ELECTROANAL 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/elan.201500574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Level of neurotoxic metals in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A population-based case–control study. J Neurol Sci 2015; 359:11-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2015.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Revised: 09/18/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Bedlack RS, Joyce N, Carter GT, Paganoni S, Karam C. Complementary and Alternative Therapies in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Neurol Clin 2015; 33:909-36. [PMID: 26515629 PMCID: PMC4712627 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2015.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Given the severity of their illness and lack of effective disease-modifying agents, it is not surprising that most patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) consider trying complementary and alternative therapies. Some of the most commonly considered alternative therapies include special diets, nutritional supplements, cannabis, acupuncture, chelation, and energy healing. This article reviews these in detail. The authors also describe 3 models by which physicians may frame discussions about alternative therapies: paternalism, autonomy, and shared decision making. Finally, the authors review a program called ALSUntangled, which uses shared decision making to review alternative therapies for ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard S Bedlack
- Department of Neurology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27702, USA.
| | - Nanette Joyce
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, 4860 Y Street Suite 3850, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Gregory T Carter
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, St. Luke's Rehabilitation Institute, 711 South Cowley, Spokane, WA 99202, USA
| | - Sabrina Paganoni
- Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Boston VA Health Care System, Harvard Medical School, Massachussets General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Chafic Karam
- Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, 170 Manning Drive, Campus Box 7025, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7025, USA
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Zhou Z, Zhang X, Cui F, Liu R, Dong Z, Wang X, Yu S. Subacute Motor Neuron Hyperexcitability with Mercury Poisoning: A Case Series and Literature Review. Eur Neurol 2014; 72:218-22. [DOI: 10.1159/000363290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2013] [Accepted: 04/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Juntas-Morales R, Pageot N, Corcia P, Camu W. [Environmental factors in ALS]. Presse Med 2014; 43:549-54. [PMID: 24703731 DOI: 10.1016/j.lpm.2014.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2013] [Revised: 02/12/2014] [Accepted: 02/24/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
ALS is likely to be a disorder of multifactorial origin. Among all the factors that may increase the risk of ALS, environmental ones are being studied for many years, but in the recent years, several advances have pointed to a new interest in their potential involvement in the disease process, especially for the cyanotoxin BMAA. Food containing BMAA has been found on Guam, a well-known focus of ALS/parkinsonism/dementia and high levels of BMAA have been identified into the brain of these patients. The BMAA cyanotoxin is potentially ubiquitous and have also been found into the food of patients who died from ALS both in Europe and USA. BMAA can be wrongly integrated into the protein structure during mRNA traduction, competing with serine. This may induce abnormal protein folding and a subsequent cell death. Heavy metals, such as lead or mercury may be directly toxic for neuronal cells. Several works have suggested an increased risk of ALS in individuals chronically exposed to these metals. Exposure to pesticides has been suggested to be linked to an increased risk of developing ALS. The mechanism of their toxicity is likely to be mediated by paraoxonases. These proteins are in charge of detoxifying the organism from toxins, and particularly organophosphates. To date, there are insufficient scientific data to suggest that exposure to electromagnetic fields may increase the risk of having ALS. We are particularly missing longitudinal cohorts to demonstrate that risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raul Juntas-Morales
- Hôpital Gui-de-Chauliac, service de neurologie, clinique du motoneurone, Inserm 1051, 34925 Montpellier cedex 5, France
| | - Nicolas Pageot
- Hôpital Gui-de-Chauliac, service de neurologie, clinique du motoneurone, Inserm 1051, 34925 Montpellier cedex 5, France
| | - Philippe Corcia
- CHRU de Tours, centre SLA, service de neurologie et neurophysiologie clinique, UMR Inserm U930, 37000 Tours, France
| | - William Camu
- Hôpital Gui-de-Chauliac, service de neurologie, clinique du motoneurone, Inserm 1051, 34925 Montpellier cedex 5, France.
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Carocci A, Rovito N, Sinicropi MS, Genchi G. Mercury toxicity and neurodegenerative effects. REVIEWS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2014; 229:1-18. [PMID: 24515807 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-03777-6_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Mercury is among the most toxic heavy metals and has no known physiological role in humans. Three forms of mercury exist: elemental, inorganic and organic. Mercury has been used by man since ancient times. Among the earliest were the Chinese and Romans, who employed cinnabar (mercury sulfide) as a red dye in ink (Clarkson et al. 2007). Mercury has also been used to purify gold and silver minerals by forming amalgams. This is a hazardous practice, but is still widespread in Brazil's Amazon basin, in Laos and in Venezuela, where tens of thousands of miners are engaged in local mining activities to find and purify gold or silver. Mercury compounds were long used to treat syphilis and the element is still used as an antiseptic,as a medicinal preservative and as a fungicide. Dental amalgams, which contain about 50% mercury, have been used to repair dental caries in the U.S. since 1856.Mercury still exists in many common household products around the world.Examples are: thermometers, barometers, batteries, and light bulbs (Swain et al.2007). In small amounts, some organo mercury-compounds (e.g., ethylmercury tiosalicylate(thimerosal) and phenylmercury nitrate) are used as preservatives in some medicines and vaccines (Ballet al. 2001).Each mercury form has its own toxicity profile. Exposure to Hg0 vapor and MeHg produce symptoms in CNS, whereas, the kidney is the target organ when exposures to the mono- and di-valent salts of mercury (Hg+ and Hg++, respectively)occur. Chronic exposure to inorganic mercury produces stomatitis, erethism and tremors. Chronic MeHg exposure induced symptoms similar to those observed in ALS, such as the early onset of hind limb weakness (Johnson and Atchison 2009).Among the organic mercury compounds, MeHg is the most biologically available and toxic (Scheuhammer et a!. 2007). MeHg is neurotoxic, reaching high levels of accumulation in the CNS; it can impair physiological function by disrupting endocrine glands (Tan et a!. 2009).The most important mechanism by which mercury causes toxicity appears to bemitochondrial damage via depletion of GSH (Nicole et a!. 1998), coupled with binding to thiol groups ( -SH), which generates free radicals. Mercury has a high affinity for thiol groups ( -SH) and seleno groups ( -SeH) that are present in amino acids as cysteine and N-acetyl cysteine, lipoic acid, proteins, and enzymes. N-acetylcysteine and cysteine are precursors for the biosynthesis of GSH, which is among the most powerful intracellular antioxidants available to protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.Mercury and methylmercury induce mitochondrial dysfunction, which reduces ATP synthesis and increases lipid, protein and DNA peroxidation. The content of metallothioneines, GSH, selenium and fish high in omega-3 fatty acids appear to be strongly related with degree of inorganic and organic mercury toxicity, and with the protective detoxifying mechanisms in humans. In conclusion, depletion of GSH,breakage of mitochondria, increased lipid peroxidation, and oxidation of proteins and DNA in the brain, induced by mercury and his salts, appear to be important factors in conditions such as ALS and AD (Bains and Shaw 1997; Nicole eta!. 1998;Spencer eta!. 1998; Alberti et a!. 1999).
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Carocci
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari "A. Moro", Bari, 70125, Italia
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Trojsi F, Monsurrò MR, Tedeschi G. Exposure to environmental toxicants and pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: state of the art and research perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:15286-311. [PMID: 23887652 PMCID: PMC3759860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms140815286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2013] [Revised: 07/05/2013] [Accepted: 07/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a broad scientific consensus that amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fatal neuromuscular disease, is caused by gene--environment interactions. In fact, given that only about 10% of all ALS diagnosis has a genetic basis, gene-environmental interaction may give account for the remaining percentage of cases. However, relatively little attention has been paid to environmental and lifestyle factors that may trigger the cascade of motor neuron degeneration leading to ALS, although exposure to chemicals--including lead and pesticides-agricultural environments, smoking, intense physical activity, trauma and electromagnetic fields have been associated with an increased risk of ALS. This review provides an overview of our current knowledge of potential toxic etiologies of ALS with emphasis on the role of cyanobacteria, heavy metals and pesticides as potential risk factors for developing ALS. We will summarize the most recent evidence from epidemiological studies and experimental findings from animal and cellular models, revealing that potential causal links between environmental toxicants and ALS pathogenesis have not been fully ascertained, thus justifying the need for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Trojsi
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Aging Sciences, Second University of Naples, Piazza Miraglia 2, Naples 80138, Italy; E-Mails: (M.R.M.); (G.T.)
- Neurological Institute for Diagnosis and Care “Hermitage Capodimonte”, Via Cupa delle Tozzole 2, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Monsurrò
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Aging Sciences, Second University of Naples, Piazza Miraglia 2, Naples 80138, Italy; E-Mails: (M.R.M.); (G.T.)
- Neurological Institute for Diagnosis and Care “Hermitage Capodimonte”, Via Cupa delle Tozzole 2, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Gioacchino Tedeschi
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Aging Sciences, Second University of Naples, Piazza Miraglia 2, Naples 80138, Italy; E-Mails: (M.R.M.); (G.T.)
- Neurological Institute for Diagnosis and Care “Hermitage Capodimonte”, Via Cupa delle Tozzole 2, Naples 80131, Italy
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Glutathione-mediated neuroprotection against methylmercury neurotoxicity in cortical culture is dependent on MRP1. Neurotoxicology 2012; 33:476-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2012.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2011] [Revised: 02/15/2012] [Accepted: 03/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Roos PM, Dencker L. Mercury in the spinal cord after inhalation of mercury. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2012; 111:126-32. [PMID: 22364490 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-7843.2012.00872.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2011] [Accepted: 02/08/2012] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) affects anterior horn cells of the spinal cord causing an indolent slow and steady deterioration of muscle strength leading inevitably to death in respiratory failure. ALS is a model condition for neurodegenerative disorders. Exposure to different agents dispersed in the environment has been suggested to cause neurodegeneration but no convincing evidence for such a link has yet been presented. Respiratory exposure to metallic mercury (Hg(0)) from different sources may be suspected. Body distribution of metallic mercury is fast and depends on solubility properties. Routes of transport, metabolism, excretion and biological half-life determine the overall toxic effects. Inhalation experiments were performed in 1984 where small marmoset monkeys (Callithrix jacchus) were exposed to (203) Hg(0 vapour) mixed into the breathing air (4-5 μg/l). After 1 hr of exposure, they were killed and whole body autoradiograms prepared to study the distribution of mercury within organs. Autoradiograms showed that Hg was deposited inside the spinal cord. Areas of enhanced accumulation anatomically corresponding to motor nuclei could be observed. This study describes a reinvestigation, with new emphasis on the spinal cord, of these classical metal exposure data in a primate, focusing on their relevance for the causation of neurodegenerative disorders. A comparison with more recent rodent experiments with similar findings is included. The hypothesis that long-time low-dose respiratory exposure to metals, for example, Hg, contributes to neurodegenerative disorders is forwarded and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Per M Roos
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Ramanathan G, Atchison WD. Ca2+ entry pathways in mouse spinal motor neurons in culture following in vitro exposure to methylmercury. Neurotoxicology 2011; 32:742-50. [PMID: 21839771 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2011.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2010] [Revised: 06/06/2011] [Accepted: 07/13/2011] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a widespread environmental toxicant with major actions on the central nervous system. Among the neurons reportedly affected in cases of Hg poisoning are motor neurons; however, the direct cellular effects of MeHg on motor neurons have not been reported. Ratiometric fluorescence imaging, using the Ca(2+)-sensitive fluorophore fura-2, was used to examine the effect of MeHg on Ca(2+) homeostasis in primary cultures of mouse spinal motor neurons. In vitro MeHg exposure at concentrations (0.1-2 μM) known to affect other neurons in culture differentially, induced a biphasic rise in fura-2 fluorescence ratio indicating an increase in [Ca(2+)](i). The time-to-onset of these fura-2 fluorescence ratio changes was inversely correlated with MeHg concentration. TPEN (20 μM), a non-Ca(2+), divalent cation chelator, reduced the amplitude of the increase in fura-2 fluorescence induced by MeHg in the first phase, indicating that both Ca(2+) and non-Ca(2+) divalent cations contribute to the MeHg-induced effect. When examining various Ca(2+) entry pathways as possible targets contributing to Ca(2+) influx, we found that excitatory amino acid receptor blockers MK-801 (15 μM), and AP-5 (100 μM)-both NMDA receptor-operated ion channel blockers, CNQX (20 μM), a non-NMDA receptor blocker, and the voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channel blockers nifedipine (1 μM) and ω-conotoxin-GVIA (1 μM) all significantly delayed the development of increased Ca(2+) caused by MeHg. The voltage-dependent Na(+) channel blocker tetrodotoxin (TTX, 1 μM) did not alter the MeHg-induced increases in fura-2 fluorescence ratio. Thus, MeHg alters Ca(2+) homeostasis in mouse spinal motor neurons through excitatory amino acid receptor-mediated pathways, and nifedipine and ω-conotoxin-GVIA-sensitive pathways. Spinal motor neurons are highly sensitive to this effect of acute exposure to MeHg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunasekaran Ramanathan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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Mutter J. Is dental amalgam safe for humans? The opinion of the scientific committee of the European Commission. J Occup Med Toxicol 2011; 6:2. [PMID: 21232090 PMCID: PMC3025977 DOI: 10.1186/1745-6673-6-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2010] [Accepted: 01/13/2011] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
It was claimed by the Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR)) in a report to the EU-Commission that "....no risks of adverse systemic effects exist and the current use of dental amalgam does not pose a risk of systemic disease..." [1, available from: http://ec.europa.eu/health/ph_risk/committees/04_scenihr/docs/scenihr_o_016.pdf].SCENIHR disregarded the toxicology of mercury and did not include most important scientific studies in their review. But the real scientific data show that:(a) Dental amalgam is by far the main source of human total mercury body burden. This is proven by autopsy studies which found 2-12 times more mercury in body tissues of individuals with dental amalgam. Autopsy studies are the most valuable and most important studies for examining the amalgam-caused mercury body burden.(b) These autopsy studies have shown consistently that many individuals with amalgam have toxic levels of mercury in their brains or kidneys.(c) There is no correlation between mercury levels in blood or urine, and the levels in body tissues or the severity of clinical symptoms. SCENIHR only relied on levels in urine or blood.(d) The half-life of mercury in the brain can last from several years to decades, thus mercury accumulates over time of amalgam exposure in body tissues to toxic levels. However, SCENIHR state that the half-life of mercury in the body is only "20-90 days".(e) Mercury vapor is about ten times more toxic than lead on human neurons and with synergistic toxicity to other metals.(f) Most studies cited by SCENIHR which conclude that amalgam fillings are safe have severe methodical flaws.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Mutter
- Department of Environmental and integrative medicine Lohnerhofstraße 2, 78467 Constance/Germany.
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Lelie HL, Liba A, Bourassa MW, Chattopadhyay M, Chan PK, Gralla EB, Miller LM, Borchelt DR, Valentine JS, Whitelegge JP. Copper and zinc metallation status of copper-zinc superoxide dismutase from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis transgenic mice. J Biol Chem 2010; 286:2795-806. [PMID: 21068388 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m110.186999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the metalloenzyme copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD1) cause one form of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and metals are suspected to play a pivotal role in ALS pathology. To learn more about metals in ALS, we determined the metallation states of human wild-type or mutant (G37R, G93A, and H46R/H48Q) SOD1 proteins from SOD1-ALS transgenic mice spinal cords. SOD1 was gently extracted from spinal cord and separated into insoluble (aggregated) and soluble (supernatant) fractions, and then metallation states were determined by HPLC inductively coupled plasma MS. Insoluble SOD1-rich fractions were not enriched in copper and zinc. However, the soluble mutant and WT SOD1s were highly metallated except for the metal-binding-region mutant H46R/H48Q, which did not bind any copper. Due to the stability conferred by high metallation of G37R and G93A, it is unlikely that these soluble SOD1s are prone to aggregation in vivo, supporting the hypothesis that immature nascent SOD1 is the substrate for aggregation. We also investigated the effect of SOD1 overexpression and disease on metal homeostasis in spinal cord cross-sections of SOD1-ALS mice using synchrotron-based x-ray fluorescence microscopy. In each mouse genotype, except for the H46R/H48Q mouse, we found a redistribution of copper between gray and white matters correlated to areas of high SOD1. Interestingly, a disease-specific increase of zinc was observed in the white matter for all mutant SOD1 mice. Together these data provide a picture of copper and zinc in the cell as well as highlight the importance of these metals in understanding SOD1-ALS pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Herman L Lelie
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, UCLA, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
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Aschner* M, Onishchenko N, Ceccatelli S. Toxicology of Alkylmercury Compounds. ORGANOMETALLICS IN ENVIRONMENT AND TOXICOLOGY 2010. [DOI: 10.1039/9781849730822-00403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Methylmercury is a global pollutant and potent neurotoxin whose abundance in the food chain mandates additional studies on the consequences and mechanisms of its toxicity to the central nervous system. Formulation of our new hypotheses was predicated on our appreciation for (a) the remarkable affinity of mercurials for the anionic form of sulfhydryl (-SH) groups, and (b) the essential role of thiols in protein biochemistry. The present chapter addresses pathways to human exposure of various mercury compounds, highlighting their neurotoxicity and potential involvement in neurotoxic injury and neurodegenerative changes, both in the developing and senescent brain. Mechanisms that trigger these effects are discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Aschner*
- Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics Pharmacology, and the Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development Nashville TN 37232 USA
| | | | - Sandra Ceccatelli
- Karolinska Institute, Department of Neuroscience SE-17177 Stockholm Sweden
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Golomb BA, Kwon EK, Koperski S, Evans MA. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-like conditions in possible association with cholesterol-lowering drugs: an analysis of patient reports to the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) Statin Effects Study. Drug Saf 2009; 32:649-61. [PMID: 19591530 DOI: 10.2165/00002018-200932080-00004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While cases of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or ALS-like conditions have arisen in apparent association with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors ('statins') and/or other lipid-lowering drugs (collectively termed 'statins' in this paper for brevity), additional information is needed to understand whether the connection may be causal. The University of California, San Diego (UCSD) Statin Effects Study is a patient-targeted adverse event surveillance project focused on lipid-lowering agents, whose aim is to capitalize on patient reporting to further define characteristics and natural history of statin adverse effects (AEs), and to ascertain whether a patient-targeted surveillance system might lead to presumptive identification of previously unrecognized AEs. ALS was a candidate 'new' AE identified through this process. The aim of the analysis presented here was to examine characteristics and natural history of reported statin-associated ALS-like conditions with attention to factors that may bear on the issue of causality. METHODS For the present analysis, we focused on cases of statin-associated ALS that were reported to our study group prior to publication of a possible statin-ALS association. Of 35 identified subjects who had contacted the UCSD Statin Effects Study group to report ALS or an ALS-like condition, 18 could not be reached (e.g. contact information was no longer valid). Six were unable to participate (e.g. due to progression of their disease). Of the 11 who could be contacted and were able to participate, one declined to give informed consent. The remaining ten, with either a formal or probable diagnosis of ALS in the context of progressive muscle wasting/weakness arising in association with lipid-lowering drug therapy, completed a mail or phone survey eliciting information about ALS symptom onset and change in association with drug use/modification and development of statin-associated AEs. We reviewed findings in the context of literature on statin antioxidant/pro-oxidant balance, as well as ALS mechanisms involving oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. RESULTS All ten subjects reported amelioration of symptoms with drug discontinuation and/or onset or exacerbation of symptoms with drug change, rechallenge or dose increase. Three subjects initiated coenzyme Q10 supplementation; all reported initial benefit. All subjects reportedly developed statin AEs (not indicative of ALS) prior to ALS symptom onset, strongly disproportionate to expectation (p < 0.001). Since this reflects induction of pro-oxidant effects from statins, these findings lend weight to a literature-supported mechanism by which induction by statins of oxidative stress with amplification of mitochondrial dysfunction, arising in a vulnerable subgroup, may propel mechanisms underlying both AEs and, more rarely, ALS. CONCLUSION A theoretical foundation and preliminary clinical observations suggest that statins (and other lipid-lowering drugs) may rarely be associated with ALS in vulnerable individuals in whom pro-oxidant effects of statins predominate. Our observations have explanatory relevance extending to ALS causes that are not statin associated and to statin-associated neurodegenerative conditions that are not ALS. They suggest means for identification of a possible vulnerable subgroup. Indeed whether statins may, in contrast, confer ALS protection when antioxidant effects predominate merits examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice A Golomb
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California 92093-0995, USA.
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Lin M, Cho M, Choe WS, Son Y, Lee Y. Electrochemical detection of copper ion using a modified copolythiophene electrode. Electrochim Acta 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2009.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Johnson FO, Atchison WD. The role of environmental mercury, lead and pesticide exposure in development of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Neurotoxicology 2009; 30:761-5. [PMID: 19632272 PMCID: PMC2761528 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2009.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2009] [Revised: 07/08/2009] [Accepted: 07/16/2009] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to an environmental toxicant as a risk factor in the development of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) was first hinted at (demonstrated) in the Chamorro indigenous people of Guam. During the 1950s and 1960s these indigenous people presented an extremely high incidence of ALS which was presumed to be associated with the consumption of flying fox and cycad seeds. No other strong association between ALS and environmental toxicants has since been reported, although circumstantial epidemiological evidence has implicated exposure to heavy metals such as lead and mercury, industrial solvents and pesticides especially organophosphates and certain occupations such as playing professional soccer. Given that only approximately 10% of all ALS diagnosis have a genetic basis, a gene-environmental interaction provides a plausible explanation for the other 90% of cases. This mini-review provides an overview of our current knowledge of environmental etiologies of ALS with emphasis on the effects of mercury, lead and pesticides as potential risk factors in developing ALS. Epidemiologic and experimental evidence from animal models investigating the possible association between exposure to environmental toxicant and ALS disease has proven inconclusive. Nonetheless, there are indications that there may be causal links, and a need for more research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank O Johnson
- Center for Integrative Toxicology and Neuroscience Program and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, United States
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Rush T, Hjelmhaug J, Lobner D. Effects of chelators on mercury, iron, and lead neurotoxicity in cortical culture. Neurotoxicology 2009; 30:47-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2008.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2008] [Revised: 09/23/2008] [Accepted: 10/27/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Çavuş S, Gürdağ G. Competitive heavy metal removal by poly(2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propane sulfonic acid-co-itaconic acid). POLYM ADVAN TECHNOL 2008. [DOI: 10.1002/pat.1113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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