Determination of phthalate diesters and monoesters in human milk and infant formula by fat extraction, size-exclusion chromatography clean-up and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry detection

Endoplasmic reticulum stress and pro-inflammatory responses induced by phthalate metabolites monoethylhexyl phthalate and monobutyl phthalate in 1.1B4 pancreatic beta cells

In recent years, phthalates and their metabolites have been associated with metabolic diseases such as diabetes mellitus. To investigate the effects of phthalate metabolites exposure on insulin production and release, 1.1B4 pancreatic beta cells were treated with different concentrations (0.001-1000 µM) of monoethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP) and monobutyl phthalate (MBP). For such purpose, the 1.1B4 cells were evaluated for their viability, apoptosis rate, lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP), mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), oxidative stress, ER stress status, in addition to their secretory functions. MEHP, not MBP, exhibited a notable reduction in metabolic viability, particularly at higher concentrations (500 and 1000 µM) following 24-hour exposure. Similarly, both MEHP and MBP induced decreased metabolic viability at high concentrations after 48- and 72-hour exposure. Notably, neither MEHP nor MBP demonstrated a significant impact on apoptosis rates after 24-hour exposure, and MBP induced mild necrosis at 1000 µM concentration. Cell proliferation rates, indicated by PCNA expression, decreased with 10 and 1000 µM MEHP and 0.1 and 10 µM MBP exposures. LMP analysis revealed an increase in 1000 µM MBP group. Exposure to 0.001 µM of both MEHP and MBP significantly reduced cellular glutathione (GSH) levels. No significant change in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and ΔΨm was observed, but MBP-exposed cells exhibited elevated levels of lipid peroxidation. Functional assessments of pancreatic beta cells unveiled reduced insulin secretion at low glucose concentrations following exposure to both MEHP and MBP, with concurrent alterations in the expression levels of key proteins associated with beta cell function, including GLUT1, GCK, PDX1, and MafA. Moreover, MEHP and MBP exposures were associated with alterations in ER stress-related pathways, including JNK, GADD153, and NF-κB expression, as well as PPARα and PPARγ levels. In conclusion, this study provides comprehensive insights into the diverse impacts of MEHP and MBP on 1.1B4 pancreatic beta cells, emphasizing their potential role in modulating cell survival, metabolic function, and stress response pathways.

Levels of organic pollutants and metals/metalloids in infant formula marketed in Brazil: Risks to early-life health

Infant formula intake is recommended to ensure comprehensive nutritional and caloric fulfillment when exclusive breastfeeding is not possible. However, similarly to breast milk, infant formulas may also contain pollutants capable of inducing endocrine-disrupting and neurotoxic effects. Thus, considering the sensitivity of their developing physiological systems and that infants have heightened susceptibility to environmental influences, this study was aimed at assessing the contents of essential elements, and inorganic and organic pollutants in infant formulas marketed in Brazil. Additionally, health risk assessments for selected contaminants were also performed. Measured contents of essential elements (Ca, Fe, Mg, Mn, Cu, Se, and Zn) were congruent with label information. Nevertheless, some toxic elements (Pb, Cd, As, Ni, and Al) were also detected. Notably, in the upper-bound scenario, Pb and Cd surpassed established threshold values when comparing the estimated daily intake (EDI) and tolerable daily intake (TDI - 3.57 and 0.36 μg/kg bw, respectively). Bisphenol P (BPP) and benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) were frequently detected (84 % detection rate both) with elevated contents (BPP median = 4.28 ng/g and BBP median = 0.24 ng/g). Furthermore, a positive correlation (0.41) was observed between BPP and BBP, implying a potential co-occurrence within packaging materials. Methyl-paraben also correlated positively with BBP (0.57), showing a detection rate of 53 %. The cumulative PBDE contents ranged from 0.33 to 1.62 ng/g, with BDE-154 and BDE-47 the dominant congeners. When comparing EDI values with TDIs, all organic pollutants remained below the thresholds across all exposure scenarios. Moreover, non-carcinogenic risks were below the threshold (HQ > 1) when dividing the EDIs by the respective reference doses for chronic exposure. While the current findings may suggest that infant formula intake poses no immediate risk in terms of the evaluated chemicals, it remains imperative to conduct further research to safeguard the health of infants considering other chemicals, as well as their potential cumulative effects.

Assessment of endocrine disruptor pollutants and their metabolites in environmental water samples using a sustainable natural deep eutectic solvent-based analytical methodology

In this work, an evaluation of the occurrence of fifteen phthalates, four metabolites and one adipate in different groundwater, seawater and wastewater samples has been carried out due to their relevance on human health as they act as endocrine disruptors. For this purpose, a sustainable, fast and easy-handling vortex-assisted liquid-liquid microextraction method using a natural hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent based on menthol and carvacrol as extraction agent, combined with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry technique, has been developed and applied for the first time. An optimization was performed to evaluate four important factors affecting the extraction performance, and an analytical validation was carried out in terms of matrix effect, linearity, extraction efficiency, and sensitivity. Recovery values were obtained in the range 72-119% for all analytes (except for monoethyl phthalate: 61.1-72.3%) with relative standard deviation values lower than 17%. Limits of quantification were found between 0.91 and 8.09 μg L-1. As a result of the assessment of 31 different environmental water samples, monoethyl phthalate, diethyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate and bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate were detected and quantified at different concentrations in the range 2.59-21.17 μg L-1 in 6 samples, and diallyl phthalate, butyl benzyl phthalate, dipentyl phthalate, dicyclohexyl phthalate, dihexyl phthalate and bis (2-ethylhexyl) adipate were detected in 20 more, showing the exposition of the population to these hazardous substances.

Comparison between pollutants found in breast milk and infant formula in the last decade: A review

Since ancient times, breastfeeding has been the fundamental way of nurturing the newborn. The benefits of breast milk are widely known, as it is a source of essential nutrients and provides immunological protection, as well as developmental benefits, among others. However, when breastfeeding is not possible, infant formula is the most appropriate alternative. Its composition meets the nutritional requirements of the infant, and its quality is subject to strict control by the authorities. Nonetheless, the presence of different pollutants has been detected in both matrices. Thus, the aim of the present review is to make a comparison between the findings in both breast milk and infant formula in terms of contaminants in the last decade, in order to choose the most convenient option depending on the environmental conditions. For that, the emerging pollutants including metals, chemical compounds derived from heat treatment, pharmaceutical drugs, mycotoxins, pesticides, packaging materials, and other contaminants were described. While in breast milk the most concerning contaminants found were metals and pesticides, in infant formula pollutants such as metals, mycotoxins, and packaging materials were the most outstanding. In conclusion, the convenience of using a feeding diet based on breast milk or either infant formula depends on the maternal environmental circumstances. However, it is important to take into account the immunological benefits of the breast milk compared to the infant formula, and the possibility of using breast milk in combination with infant formula when the nutritional requirements are not fulfilled only with the intake of breast milk. Therefore, more attention should be paid in terms of analyzing these conditions in each case to be able to make a proper decision, as it will vary depending on the maternal and newborn environment.

Estimation of exposure to phthalate esters from consumption of powdered infant formula sampled in Turkey

Phthalate esters (PAEs) adversely affect the human endocrine and reproductive systems. These chemical toxic compounds are used as plasticizers, in particular to improve the mechanical properties of different food packing materials. Daily food consumption is the predominant source of exposure for PAEs, especially for infants. In this study, residue profiles and levels for eight PAEs were determined in 30 infant (stage I, II and special A and B) formulas of 12 brands in Turkey and health risk assessments were performed. The average level of PAEs were different for each formula group and packing type except for BBP (p < 0.01). The highest average mean level of PAEs was detected in paperboard type packing, while the lowest average mean level of PAEs was detected in metal can type packing. The highest average level of PAEs detected was DEHP in special formulas (22.1 ng g^-1). The average hazard quotient (HQ) value was calculated as 8.43 × 10^-5-8.94 × 10^-5 for BBP, 1.49 × 10^-3-1.58 × 10^-3 for DBP, 2.06 × 10^-2-2.18 × 10^-2 for DEHP, and 7.21 × 10^-4-7.65 × 10^-4 for DINP. The average HI values were calculated as 2.29 × 10^-2 for 0-6 months old infants, 2.39 × 10^-2 for 6-12 months old infants, and 2.43 × 10^-2 for 12-36 months old infants. These calculated results show that commercial infant formulas were a source of exposure to PAEs but did not present a significant health risk.

Characterization of different contaminants and current knowledge for defining chemical mixtures in human milk: A review

Hundreds of xenobiotics, with very diverse origins, have been detected in human milk, including contaminants of emerging concern, personal care products and other current-use substances reflecting lifestyle. The routes of exposure to these chemicals include dermal absorption, ingestion and inhalation. Specific families of chemicals are dominant among human milk monitoring studies (e.g., organochlorine pesticides, bisphenol A, dioxins), even though other understudied families may be equally toxicologically relevant (e.g., food-processing chemicals, current-use plasticizers and flame retardants, mycotoxins). Importantly, the lack of reliable human milk monitoring data for some individual chemicals and, especially, for complex mixtures, is a major factor hindering risk assessment. Non-targeted screening can be used as an effective tool to identify unknown contaminants of concern in human milk. This approach, in combination with novel methods to conduct risk assessments on the chemical mixtures detected in human milk, will assist in elucidating exposures that may have adverse effects on the development of breastfeeding infants.

Phthalate Exposure Pattern in Breast Milk within a Six-Month Postpartum Time in Southern Taiwan

Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), a common plasticizer, has been detected in breast milk in many countries; however, whether phthalate metabolite concentration and the detection rate in breast milk change postpartum is still unknown. We measured phthalate metabolite concentrations in breast milk in the first 6 months postpartum in women enrolled in the E-Da hospital from January to July 2017. A total of 56 breastfeeding mothers and 66 samples were included in this study. We analyzed the samples’ concentration of eight phthalate metabolites using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. The concentration of mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP) was significantly higher in the first month, and then decreased over time. The detection rate of ono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP) and mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP) was low in the first month and then increased over time. Compared with a previous study published in 2011, the levels of MEHP and MiBP in breast milk were much lower in the present study, suggesting an increased awareness of the health risks of phthalate exposure after a food scandal occurred in Taiwan. This study provides information for evaluating newborns’ exposure to different kinds of phthalate through human milk in the postpartum period.

Perinatal Exposure to Phthalates: From Endocrine to Neurodevelopment Effects

Phthalates, as other endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), may alter the homeostasis and the action of hormones and signaling molecules, causing adverse health outcomes. This is true especially for infants, who are both more exposed and sensitive to their effects. Phthalates are particularly harmful when the exposure occurs during certain critical temporal windows of the development, such as the prenatal and the early postnatal phases. Phthalates may also interfere with the neuroendocrine systems (e.g., thyroid hormone signaling or metabolism), causing disruption of neuronal differentiation and maturation, increasing the risk of behavioral and cognitive disorders (ADHD and autistic behaviors, reduced mental, psychomotor, and IQ development, and emotional problems). Despite more studies being needed to better understand the role of these substances, plenty of evidence suggests the impact of phthalates on the neuroendocrine system development and function. This review aims to update the knowledge on the neuroendocrine consequences of neonatal and perinatal exposure to phthalates.

Occurrence, sources, and pathways of chemical contaminants in infant formulas

Infant formulas are manufactured products to meet specific nutritional requirements for infants. However, infant formulas can contain harmful substances, such as chemical contaminants and residues, normally due to possible contamination of the raw material or from the production chain. Some studies have demonstrated that veterinary drugs, pesticides, mycotoxins, heavy metals, packaging materials, within other chemicals are found in infant formulas from different sources of contamination. It is known that some of these substances can be hepatotoxic, carcinogenic, teratogenic, mutagenic, immunotoxic, contributing to antibiotic resistance, among other detrimental consequences for consumers' health. The purpose of this review is to assess the scientific evidence concerning the occurrence, sources, and pathways of contamination, as well as the detrimental impacts on infant health due to the possible presence of chemical contaminants and residues in infant formulas. Moreover, strategies to reduce the risk of contamination of infant formulas are presented to ensure the highest standards of quality of infant formulas. The entire infant formula manufacturing process should be monitored and controlled to minimize the risk of contamination during processing, storage, and distribution, besides ensuring the use of raw materials with as low as acceptable levels of harmful substances in order to assure that the final product shall comply with the maximum levels and maximum residue limits, when established, for residues and contaminants in the final product.

Associations of lifestyle factors with phthalate metabolites, bisphenol A, parabens, and triclosan concentrations in breast milk of Korean mothers

The toxicity of endocrine disruptors depends on the synergistic interactions of biological, environmental, and behavioral factors. The specific effects of diet, consumer product use, and behaviors, however, are debated in the literature, particularly with regard to endocrine disruptors found in breast milk. This study aimed to measure the levels of phthalate metabolites, bisphenol A, parabens, and triclosan in breast milk and to investigate their associations with various lifestyle factors. The breast milk samples as well as surveys were collected from 221 first-time mothers throughout South Korea and each sample was analyzed for the presence of 15 endocrine disruptors. Phthalate metabolites were detected in 5.4-83.3% of the samples, with median concentrations of 0.08-1.72 μg/L, while bisphenol A, parabens, and triclosan were detected in 25.8-88.2% of the samples, with median concentrations of 0.12-1.47 μg/L. High levels of endocrine disruptors were associated with frequent consumption of fish and cup noodles; the use of plastic and disposable food containers; the use of air fresheners, lotions and make-up; the purchase of new furniture; and socioeconomic status. We also observed the potential role of moderate walking activity on the reduction of these chemicals in breast milk. Our data provide evidence of the potential effects of diet, consumer products, and behavior on the presence of phthalate metabolites, bisphenol A, parabens, and triclosan in breast milk. Future studies should include community or regional impact on a mothers' exposure to endocrine disruptors, to assess the joint contribution of both individual and neighborhood factors.

Advancement in Determination of Phthalate Metabolites by Gas Chromatography Eliminating Derivatization Step

A gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method to determine polar and thermally unstable phthalate metabolites [monomethyl phthalate-MMP, monoethyl phthalate-MEP, mono-n-butyl phthalate-MnBP, mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate-MEHP] has been developed. This is the first report presenting the separation of monophthalates without derivatization step and any additional equipment or special injection port. Injection parameters (temperature, pressure, time, and volume of injection), chromatographic separation (retention gap, temperature program), and MS detection/identification (working parameters, ion selection) were investigated. Mechanisms and phenomena occurring under different conditions in the GC injector were evaluated and discussed. The limits of detection (LODs) of MMP, MEP, MnBP, MEHP in the protocol were 0.049, 0.036, 0.038, and 0.029 ng (per 2 μL of injection), respectively. The response of the monophthalates was found to be linear in the tested concentration range (for MMP: 0.15-100 ng, MEP and MnBP: 0.11-100 ng, MEHP: 0.087-100 ng per 2 μL) with the coefficient of determination higher than 0.9817 and inter-day precision in the range of 1.4-5.4%. The developed method is fast, easy and repeatable. Moreover, it allows for the elimination of derivatization agents, reduction of toxic waste production and simplification of analytical procedure.

Variations of phthalate exposure and metabolism over three trimesters

Maternal exposure to phthalates may cause some adverse health effects on both mother and fetus, but variations of phthalate exposure and metabolism during pregnancy have not been thoroughly characterized. A total of 946 participants were selected from a cohort study conducted in Wuhan between 2014 and 2015 through which they had provided a complete set of urine samples at three trimesters. Eight phthalate metabolites were analyzed in 2838 urine samples. Based on urinary concentrations, various parameters (i.e. phthalate metabolite concentrations, ratios of metabolites of bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) in DEHP, and percentages of individual metabolites in total phthalates) were compared over three visits. We observed that levels of phthalate metabolites showed a U-shaped trend across three trimesters. The significant variations in the ratios of DEHP metabolites indicated that the efficiency in metabolizing DEHP declined during pregnancy and less recent exposure occurred in mid-pregnancy. The changes of percentages of individual compound in total phthalates suggested the inconsistent pattern over trimesters. This longitudinal study found that the exposure pattern, exposure timing and metabolic susceptibility varied by trimesters, which suggests that urine samples should be collected at multiple time points and mothers should be especially careful in the early pregnancy.

Removal efficiency and mass balance of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, phthalates, ethoxylated alkylphenols and alkylphenols in a mixed textile-domestic wastewater treatment plant

In this work the occurrence and fate of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), phthalic acid esters (PAEs), mono and diethoxylate alkylphenols (AP_1-2EOs) and alkylphenols (APs) have been investigated during a two-weeks period in a facility treating mixed textile-domestic wastewater (Prato, Italy). The wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) consists of primary sedimentation, activated sludge biological oxidation, secondary sedimentation, clariflocculation and ozonation. The sludge is treated within the facility by thickening, dewatering and final incineration, thus providing the almost quantitative removal of the adsorbed micropollutants. Naphthalene (50%), di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (74%) and branched 4-nonylphenols (59%) were the individual main representative compounds of each class in the influent wastewater, which showed concentration ranges of 5.6-66, 85-290 and 21-133μg/L for PAHs, PAEs and APs+AP_1-2EOs, respectively. The WWTP efficiently removed PAHs, PAEs and APs+AP_1-2EOs, providing effluent concentrations of 0.075-0.16ng/L 0.38-9.9μg/L and 0.53-1.4μg/L. All targeted priority and priority-hazardous micropollutants showed effluent concentrations in line with the European environmental quality standards (EQS), even though for di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate and benzo(a)pyrene after correction for the dilution factor of the recipient. The WWTP performance was evaluated by mass balance, verifying its accuracy by monitoring Pb and Cd as conservative species. The biological treatment sections provided mass losses of 85.5%, 74.5% and 56.8% for APs+AP_1-2EOs, PAEs and PAHs, highlighting efficient biotransformation performances of the activated sludge process. However, for the more volatile PAHs (e.g. naphthalene), a significant contribution of stripping cannot be excluded. A remarkable mass loss was also determined in the ozonation stage for PAEs (72.9%) and especially PAHs (97.0%), whereas a lower efficiency was observed for APs+AP_1-2EOs (41.3%). The whole plant allowed for obtaining an almost quantitative removal (96.7-98.4%) for all targeted compounds.