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Duta-Cornescu G, Dugala ML, Constantin N, Pojoga MD, Simon-Gruita A. Evaluation of Clastogenic and Aneugenic Action of Two Bio-Insecticides Using Allium Bioassay. J Xenobiot 2025; 15:35. [PMID: 40126253 PMCID: PMC11932292 DOI: 10.3390/jox15020035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2025] [Accepted: 02/21/2025] [Indexed: 03/25/2025] Open
Abstract
It is well known that modern agriculture would not be able to meet the current demand for food without the help of pesticides. However, conventional pesticides have been proven to be extremely harmful to the environment, to the species they are applied to, and, ultimately, to humans. As a result, bio-pesticides have been introduced in recent years and include natural substances that control pests, such as biochemical pesticides, microorganisms used as pest control agents (microbial pesticides), and pesticide substances produced by plants containing added genetic material, known as plant-incorporated protectants (PIPs). Although these are natural products, their widespread use has led to an increased presence in the environment, raising concerns regarding their potential impact on both the environment and human health. The aim of our study was to determine the phyto- and cytogenotoxicity caused by two insecticides, both certified for use in ecological agriculture: one biochemical (BCP) and the other microbial (MP), which were applied in three concentrations (the maximum recommended concentration by the manufacturers (MRFC), 1.5X MRFC, and 2X MRFC) to the meristematic root tissues of Allium cepa. The results were compared to a negative control (tap water) and a positive control (a chemical pesticide (CP) containing mainly Deltamethrin). Phytotoxic and cytogenotoxic effects were analyzed at two time intervals (24 and 48 h) by measuring root length, growth percentage, root growth inhibition percentage (phytotoxicity tests), and micronuclei frequency and chromosome aberrations (anaphase bridges, chromosomal fragments, anaphase delays, sticky chromosomes, laggard/vagrant chromosomes) (cytogenotoxicity analyses), respectively. The tests conducted in this study showed that the microbial insecticide provides greater safety when applied, even at higher doses than those recommended by the manufacturers, compared with the biochemical insecticide, whose effects are similar to those induced by the chemical pesticide containing Deltamethrin. However, the results suggest that both insecticides have clastogenic and aneugenic effects, highlighting the need for prior testing of any type of pesticide before large-scale use, especially since the results of the A. cepa tests showed high sensitivity and good correlation when compared to other test systems, e.g., mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgiana Duta-Cornescu
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Intrarea Portocalelor 1-3, Sector 6, 060101 Bucharest, Romania; (M.L.D.); (N.C.); (M.-D.P.); (A.S.-G.)
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Wang X, Zhao Y, Li F, Li Z, Liang J, Li H, Zhang X, Zhang M. Impact of the novel chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonate, F-53B, on gill structure and reproductive toxicity in zebrafish. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2024; 275:107072. [PMID: 39222568 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2024.107072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2024] [Revised: 08/18/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
6:2 Chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonate, commonly known as F-53B, is widely used as a mist suppressant in various industries and is frequently detected in the environment. Despite its prevalent presence, the adverse effects of F-53B are not well understood and require future investigation. This study utilized zebrafish embryos and adults to examine the toxic effects of F-53B. Our findings revealed that F-53B impaired gill structure and increased erythrocyte numbers in adult zebrafish. Notably, F-53B demonstrated a higher sensitivity for inducing mortality (LC50 at 96 h) in adult zebrafish compared to embryos. Additionally, F-53B disrupted the expression of critical steroidogenic genes and hindered sex hormone production, which negatively affecting egg production. In conclusion, this study underscores the detrimental impact of F-53B on gill structure and reproductive toxicity in zebrafish, providing valuable insights into its overall toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianfeng Wang
- College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China; Observation and Research Station on Water Ecosystem in Danjiangkou Reservoir of Henan Province, Nanyang 474450, China.
| | - Yiman Zhao
- College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Fang Li
- College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Zelong Li
- College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China
| | - Junping Liang
- College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China; Observation and Research Station on Water Ecosystem in Danjiangkou Reservoir of Henan Province, Nanyang 474450, China
| | - Hui Li
- College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China; Observation and Research Station on Water Ecosystem in Danjiangkou Reservoir of Henan Province, Nanyang 474450, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China; Observation and Research Station on Water Ecosystem in Danjiangkou Reservoir of Henan Province, Nanyang 474450, China
| | - Man Zhang
- College of Fisheries, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China; Observation and Research Station on Water Ecosystem in Danjiangkou Reservoir of Henan Province, Nanyang 474450, China
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Oskoei P, Marçal R, Oliveira H, Guilherme S. Hitting two targets with one shot on pesticide genotoxicity assessment - Identifying risk while unveiling ex vivo approach as a throughput tool in gill-breathing animals. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 476:134948. [PMID: 38968824 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
Pesticides in the environment often compromise the ecosystem, thus requiring reliable approaches to assess their effects. Commonly used approaches, such as in vivo, come with several disadvantages, namely in the light of the 3 R's policy. Seeking for accurate and ethical approaches, this study intended to validate the ex vivo technique as an alternative, and to assess the genotoxicity of chemically-based pesticides and a biopesticide. The ex vivo approach was applied to gill cells of Procambarus clarkii for 2, 4 and 8 h. Cell viability and DNA integrity were evaluated to determine the applicability of this approach. Crayfish gill cells only showed to be suitable for exposures of 2 h. Accordingly, genotoxicity was evaluated in gill cells exposed, for 2 h, to environmentally relevant concentrations of the chemically-based pesticides dimethoate (20 µg L-1), imazalil (160 µg L-1) and penoxsulam (23 µg L-1), as well as to the bioinsecticide Turex® (25, 50, 100, 200 and 400 µg L-1). Every chemically-based pesticide demonstrated to be genotoxic, despite not inducing oxidative DNA damage. On the other hand, Turex® showed no genotoxic effects. Overall, the ex vivo approach demonstrated to be possible and practical to implement, improving the number of outcomes with a lower number of organisms. The findings from the screening test suggest that biological pesticides may pose a lower risk to non-target organisms compared to chemically-based pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Párástu Oskoei
- Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Raquel Marçal
- Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Helena Oliveira
- Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Sofia Guilherme
- Department of Biology & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
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4
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Padilha RMO, da Silva Gomes S, da Silva JF, Silva RPF, de Andrade ALC, Dos Santos Magnabosco AR, Santos TP, de Lima Silva AR, da Silva MLSC, Cadena MRS, Cadena PG. Assessment of toxicity of pyriproxyfen, Bacillus thuringiensis, and malathion and their mixtures used for mosquito control on embryo-larval development and behavior of zebrafish. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:42672-42685. [PMID: 38874756 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33955-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Pyriproxyfen (PPF), Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (BTI), and malathion (MLT) are widely used worldwide to control the population of mosquitos that transmit arboviruses. The current work aimed to evaluate the toxicity of these single pesticides and their binary mixtures of PPF + BTI, PPF + MLT, and MLT + BTI on the embryo-larval stage of zebrafish (Danio rerio) as an animal model. Epiboly, mortality, apical endpoints, affected animals, heart rate, morphometric, thigmotaxis, touch sensitivity, and optomotor response tests were evaluated. PPF and MLT and all mixtures reduced the epiboly percentage. Mortality increased significantly in all exposed groups, except BTI, with MLT being the most toxic. The observed apical endpoints were pericardial and yolk sac edemas, and tail and spine deformation. Exposure to MLT showed a higher percentage of affected animals. A reduction in heart rate was also observed in MLT- and PPF + MLT-exposed groups. The PPF + MLT mixture decreased head measurements. Behavioral alterations were observed, with a decrease in thigmotaxis and touch sensitivity responses in PPF + MLT and MLT + BTI groups. Finally, optomotor responses were affected in all groups. The above data obtained suggest that the MLT + PFF mixture has the greatest toxicity effects. This mixture affected embryo-larval development and behavior and is close to the reality in several cities that use both pesticides for mosquito control rather than single pesticides, leading to a reevaluation of the strategy for mosquito control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Meireles Oliveira Padilha
- Departamento de Morfologia e Fisiologia Animal (DMFA), Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco. Av, Dom Manoel de Medeiros S/N, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | - Samara da Silva Gomes
- Departamento de Morfologia e Fisiologia Animal (DMFA), Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco. Av, Dom Manoel de Medeiros S/N, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | - Jadson Freitas da Silva
- Departamento de Morfologia e Fisiologia Animal (DMFA), Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco. Av, Dom Manoel de Medeiros S/N, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | - Renatta Priscilla Ferreira Silva
- Departamento de Morfologia e Fisiologia Animal (DMFA), Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco. Av, Dom Manoel de Medeiros S/N, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | - André Lucas Corrêa de Andrade
- Departamento de Morfologia e Fisiologia Animal (DMFA), Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco. Av, Dom Manoel de Medeiros S/N, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | - Amanda Rodrigues Dos Santos Magnabosco
- Departamento de Morfologia e Fisiologia Animal (DMFA), Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco. Av, Dom Manoel de Medeiros S/N, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | - Thamiris Pinheiro Santos
- Departamento de Morfologia e Fisiologia Animal (DMFA), Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco. Av, Dom Manoel de Medeiros S/N, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | - Andressa Raphaely de Lima Silva
- Departamento de Morfologia e Fisiologia Animal (DMFA), Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco. Av, Dom Manoel de Medeiros S/N, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | - Maria Leticia Santos Carnaúba da Silva
- Departamento de Morfologia e Fisiologia Animal (DMFA), Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco. Av, Dom Manoel de Medeiros S/N, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | - Marilia Ribeiro Sales Cadena
- Departamento de Biologia (DB), Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco. Av, Dom Manoel de Medeiros S/N, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | - Pabyton Gonçalves Cadena
- Departamento de Morfologia e Fisiologia Animal (DMFA), Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco. Av, Dom Manoel de Medeiros S/N, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil.
- Laboratório de Ecofisiologia E Comportamento Animal (LECA), Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Av. Dom Manoel de Medeiros S/N, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil.
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Jneid R, Loudhaief R, Zucchini-Pascal N, Nawrot-Esposito MP, Fichant A, Rousset R, Bonis M, Osman D, Gallet A. Bacillus thuringiensis toxins divert progenitor cells toward enteroendocrine fate by decreasing cell adhesion with intestinal stem cells in Drosophila. eLife 2023; 12:e80179. [PMID: 36847614 PMCID: PMC9977296 DOI: 10.7554/elife.80179] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki (Btk) is a strong pathogen toward lepidopteran larvae thanks to specific Cry toxins causing leaky gut phenotypes. Hence, Btk and its toxins are used worldwide as microbial insecticide and in genetically modified crops, respectively, to fight crop pests. However, Btk belongs to the B. cereus group, some strains of which are well known human opportunistic pathogens. Therefore, ingestion of Btk along with food may threaten organisms not susceptible to Btk infection. Here we show that Cry1A toxins induce enterocyte death and intestinal stem cell (ISC) proliferation in the midgut of Drosophila melanogaster, an organism non-susceptible to Btk. Surprisingly, a high proportion of the ISC daughter cells differentiate into enteroendocrine cells instead of their initial enterocyte destiny. We show that Cry1A toxins weaken the E-Cadherin-dependent adherens junction between the ISC and its immediate daughter progenitor, leading the latter to adopt an enteroendocrine fate. Hence, although not lethal to non-susceptible organisms, Cry toxins can interfere with conserved cell adhesion mechanisms, thereby disrupting intestinal homeostasis and endocrine functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rouba Jneid
- Universite Cote d'Azur, CNRS, INRAESophia AntipolisFrance
- Faculty of Sciences III and Azm Center for Research in Biotechnology and its Applications, LBA3B, EDST, Lebanese UniversityTripoliLebanon
| | | | | | | | - Arnaud Fichant
- Universite Cote d'Azur, CNRS, INRAESophia AntipolisFrance
- Laboratory for Food Safety, University Paris-Est, French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & SafetyMaisons-AlfortFrance
| | | | - Mathilde Bonis
- Laboratory for Food Safety, University Paris-Est, French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & SafetyMaisons-AlfortFrance
| | - Dani Osman
- Faculty of Sciences III and Azm Center for Research in Biotechnology and its Applications, LBA3B, EDST, Lebanese UniversityTripoliLebanon
| | - Armel Gallet
- Universite Cote d'Azur, CNRS, INRAESophia AntipolisFrance
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Oliveira-Filho EC, Grisolia CK. The Ecotoxicology of Microbial Insecticides and Their Toxins in Genetically Modified Crops: An Overview. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16495. [PMID: 36554372 PMCID: PMC9778766 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192416495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The use of microbial insecticides and their toxins in biological control and transgenic plants has increased their presence in the environment. Although they are natural products, the main concerns are related to the potential impacts on the environment and human health. Several assays have been performed worldwide to investigate the toxicity or adverse effects of these microbial products or their individual toxins. This overview examines the published data concerning the knowledge obtained about the ecotoxicity and environmental risks of these natural pesticides. The data presented show that many results are difficult to compare due to the diversity of measurement units used in the different research data. Even so, the products and toxins tested present low toxicity and low risk when compared to the concentrations used for pesticide purposes. Complementary studies should be carried out to assess possible effects on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cesar K. Grisolia
- Departamento de Genética e Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, DF, Brazil
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7
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Microbiome in cancer: Role in carcinogenesis and impact in therapeutic strategies. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 149:112898. [PMID: 35381448 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the world's second-leading cause of death, and the involvement of microbes in a range of diseases, including cancer, is well established. The gut microbiota is known to play an important role in the host's health and physiology. The gut microbiota and its metabolites may activate immunological and cellular pathways that kill invading pathogens and initiate a cancer-fighting immune response. Cancer is a multiplex illness, characterized by the persistence of several genetic and physiological anomalies in malignant tissue, complicating disease therapy and control. Humans have coevolved with a complex bacterial, fungal, and viral microbiome over millions of years. Specific long-known epidemiological links between certain bacteria and cancer have recently been grasped at the molecular level. Similarly, advances in next-generation sequencing technology have enabled detailed research of microbiomes, such as the human gut microbiome, allowing for the finding of taxonomic and metabolomic linkages between the microbiome and cancer. These investigations have found causative pathways for both microorganisms within tumors and bacteria in various host habitats far from tumors using direct and immunological procedures. Anticancer diagnostic and therapeutic solutions could be developed using this review to tackle the threat of anti-cancer medication resistance as well through the wide-ranging involvement of the microbiota in regulating host metabolic and immunological homeostasis. We reviewed the significance of gut microbiota in cancer initiation as well as cancer prevention. We look at certain microorganisms that may play a role in the development of cancer. Several bacteria with probiotic qualities may be employed as bio-therapeutic agents to re-establish the microbial population and trigger a strong immune response to remove malignancies, and further study into this should be conducted.
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Silva LCR, Dornelas ASP, de Souza Saraiva A, Gravato C, Pestana JLT, da Maia Soares AMV, Sarmento RA. Do bio-insecticides affect only insect species? Behavior, regeneration, and sexual reproduction of a non-target freshwater planarian. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:10665-10674. [PMID: 34528200 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-16493-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Bio-insecticides have been increasingly used worldwide as ecofriendly alternatives to pesticides, but data on their effects in non-target freshwater organisms is still scarce and limited to insects. The aim of this study was to determine the lethal and sub-lethal effects of the bio-insecticides Bac Control (based on Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki-Btk) and Boveril (based on Beauveria bassiana-Bb) on regeneration, behavioral, and reproductive endpoints of the freshwater planarian Girardia tigrina. The estimated LC50-48h were > 800 mg a.i./L for Btk and 60.74 mg a.i./L for Bb. In addition, exposure to Btk significantly decreased locomotion and feeding activities of planarians (lowest observed effect concentration (LOEC) of 12.5 mg a.i./L Btk) and fecundity rate (LOEC = 3.12 mg a.i./L Btk), whereas exposure to Bb significantly delayed regeneration (LOEC = 0.75 mg a.i./L Bb) and decreased fecundity rate (1.5 mg a.i./L Bb) of planarians. Thus, both bio-insecticides induced deleterious sub-lethal effects on a non-insect freshwater invertebrate species. However, only Bb-based formulation affected the survival, fecundity rate, and regeneration at concentrations below the maximum predicted environmental concentration (PEC = 247 mg/L). Thus, care should be taken when using such formulations as alternatives to chemical insecticides near aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila Cristina Rezende Silva
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Produção Vegetal, Universidade Federal do Tocantins, Campus Universitário de Gurupi, 77402-970, Gurupi, Tocantins, Brazil
| | - Aline Silvestre Pereira Dornelas
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Produção Vegetal, Universidade Federal do Tocantins, Campus Universitário de Gurupi, 77402-970, Gurupi, Tocantins, Brazil
| | - Althiéris de Souza Saraiva
- Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia Goiano-Campus Campos Belos (Laboratório de Conservação de Agroecossistemas e Ecotoxicologia), 73840-000, Campos Belos, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Carlos Gravato
- Faculdade de Ciências and CESAM, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João Luís Teixeira Pestana
- Departamento de Biologia and CESAM, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Amadeu Mortágua Velho da Maia Soares
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Produção Vegetal, Universidade Federal do Tocantins, Campus Universitário de Gurupi, 77402-970, Gurupi, Tocantins, Brazil
- Departamento de Biologia and CESAM, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Renato Almeida Sarmento
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Produção Vegetal, Universidade Federal do Tocantins, Campus Universitário de Gurupi, 77402-970, Gurupi, Tocantins, Brazil.
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Vieira L, Hissa DC, Souza T, Gonçalves ÍFS, Evaristo JAM, Nogueira FCS, Carvalho AFU, Farias D. Assessing the effects of an acute exposure to worst-case concentration of Cry proteins on zebrafish using the embryotoxicity test and proteomics analysis. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 264:128538. [PMID: 33038734 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Cry1C, Cry1F and Cry1Ab are insecticidal proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) which are expressed in transgenic crops. Given the entry of these proteins into aquatic environments, it is relevant to evaluate their impacts on aquatic organisms. In this work, we sought to evaluate the effects of Cry1C, Cry1F and Cry1Ab on zebrafish embryos and larvae of a predicted worst-case scenario concentration of these proteins (set to 1.1 mg/L). For that, we coupled a traditional toxicity approach (the zebrafish embryotoxicity test and dosage of enzymatic biomarkers) to gel free proteomics analysis. At the concentration tested, these proteins did not cause adverse effects in the zebrafish early life stages, either by verifying phenotypic endpoints of toxicity or alterations in representative enzymatic biomarkers (catalase, glutathione-S-tranferase and lactate-dehydrogenase). At the molecular level, the Cry proteins tested lead to very small changes in the proteome of zebrafish larvae. In a global way, these proteins upregulated the expression of vitellogenins. Besides that, Cry1C e Cry1F deregulated heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (Hnrnpa0l and Hnrnpaba, respectively), implicated in mRNA processing and gene regulation. Overall, these data lead to the conclusion that Cry1C, Cry1F and Cry1Ab proteins, even at a very high concentration, have limited effects in the early stages of zebrafish life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Vieira
- Post-Graduation Program in Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Building 907, Campus Pici, Federal University of Ceara, 60455-970, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Denise Cavalcante Hissa
- Department of Biology, Building 909, Campus Pici, Federal University of Ceara, 60455-970, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Terezinha Souza
- Department of Toxicogenomics, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Oncology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Íris Flávia Sousa Gonçalves
- Post-Graduation Program in Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Building 907, Campus Pici, Federal University of Ceara, 60455-970, Fortaleza, Brazil; Laboratory for Risk Assessment of Novel Technologies, Department of Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraiba, 58051-900, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Joseph Alberto Medeiros Evaristo
- Laboratory of Proteomics, LADETEC, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, 21941-909, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Fábio César Sousa Nogueira
- Laboratory of Proteomics, LADETEC, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, 21941-909, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Proteomics Unit, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, 21941-909, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ana Fontenele Urano Carvalho
- Post-Graduation Program in Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Building 907, Campus Pici, Federal University of Ceara, 60455-970, Fortaleza, Brazil; Department of Biology, Building 909, Campus Pici, Federal University of Ceara, 60455-970, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Davi Farias
- Post-Graduation Program in Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Building 907, Campus Pici, Federal University of Ceara, 60455-970, Fortaleza, Brazil; Laboratory for Risk Assessment of Novel Technologies, Department of Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraiba, 58051-900, João Pessoa, Brazil.
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Abstract
Fish embryo toxicity (FET) test using zebrafish (Danio rerio) has been established as an alternative assay to animal experimentation. The FET assay enables the assessment of multiple morphological endpoints during the development of zebrafish early life stages, showing high impact to the field of ecotoxicology on risk assessment of chemicals and pollutants. Moreover, it is also applied to screening drug-induced toxicity and human diseases, due to the high genetic and physiological orthology between zebrafish and humans. Here, we describe FET test, with all steps and several adaptations involved in the methodological procedures. To demonstrate the efficiency of this method, results using the reference substance 3,4-dichloroaniline (DCA) were included to demonstrate sublethal and teratogenic malformations on zebrafish embryos. Thus, there is a strong tendency for using FET tests as a replacement strategy of traditional tests in toxicology and ecotoxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flávia Renata Abe
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Carlos Gravato
- Faculdade de Ciências & CESAM, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Danielle Palma de Oliveira
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
- National Institute for Alternative Technologies ofremoval of Detection, Toxicological Evaluation and Removal of Micropollutants and Radioactives (INCT-DATREM), Unesp, Institute of Chemistry, Araraquara, Brazil.
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11
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Nawrot-Esposito MP, Babin A, Pasco M, Poirié M, Gatti JL, Gallet A. Bacillus thuringiensis Bioinsecticides Induce Developmental Defects in Non-Target Drosophila melanogaster Larvae. INSECTS 2020; 11:E697. [PMID: 33066180 PMCID: PMC7601982 DOI: 10.3390/insects11100697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Bioinsecticides made from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) are the bestselling bioinsecticide worldwide. Among Bt bioinsecticides, those based on the strain Bt subsp. kurstaki (Btk) are widely used in farming to specifically control pest lepidopteran larvae. Although there is much evidence of the lack of acute lethality of Btk products for non-target animals, only scarce data are available on their potential non-lethal developmental adverse effects. Using a concentration that could be reached in the field upon sprayings, we show that Btk products impair growth and developmental time of the non-target dipteran Drosophila melanogaster. We demonstrate that these effects are mediated by the synergy between Btk bacteria and Btk insecticidal toxins. We further show that Btk bioinsecticides trigger intestinal cell death and alter protein digestion without modifying the food intake and feeding behavior of the larvae. Interestingly, these harmful effects can be mitigated by a protein-rich diet or by adding the probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus plantarum into the food. Finally, we unravel two new cellular mechanisms allowing the larval midgut to maintain its integrity upon Btk aggression: First the flattening of surviving enterocytes and second, the generation of new immature cells arising from the adult midgut precursor cells. Together, these mechanisms participate to quickly fill in the holes left by the dying enterocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Armel Gallet
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, INRAE, ISA, UMR CNRS 7254/INRAE 1355/UCA, 400 route des Chappes, BP 167, 06903 Sophia Antipolis CEDEX, France; (M.-P.N.-E.); (A.B.); (M.P.); (M.P.); (J.-L.G.)
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12
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Weeks DM, Parris MJ. A Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki Biopesticide Does Not Reduce Hatching Success or Tadpole Survival at Environmentally Relevant Concentrations in Southern Leopard Frogs (Lithobates sphenocephalus). ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2020; 39:155-161. [PMID: 31499575 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Amphibians are in global decline, and anthropogenic activities are known leading causes of their demise. Thus the interaction between agriculture and amphibian health has been examined for decades. Many facets of amphibian physiology and ecology place them at high risk among the nontarget organisms affected by agricultural byproducts. Research has shown that many chemicals and fertilizers affect amphibian growth, reproduction, and survival. The impacts differ based on the type of agricultural byproduct (e.g., chemical pesticide or nutrient-heavy fertilizer) and amphibian species, but the effects are usually negative. However, minimal research exists on how organic biopesticides interact with amphibian populations. Biopesticides utilize insecticidal bacteria as the active ingredient in lieu of synthetic chemicals. The inert ingredients present in biopesticide commercial products are considered safe to nontarget organisms. The present study tested the impacts of a commercial biopesticide on the survival of amphibian embryos and larvae. We found that expected environmental concentrations of the microbial biopesticide Monterrey B.t. did not significantly reduce survival in embryos or larvae. However, the higher doses used to assess threshold toxicity levels caused significant mortality. Our data suggest that biopesticides are not directly harmful to amphibian embryos or larvae in concentrations regularly applied for pest control. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;39:155-161. © 2019 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denita Mychele Weeks
- Department of Biological Sciences, Colorado Mesa University, Grand Junction, Colorado, USA
| | - Matthew James Parris
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
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13
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Gao YJ, Zhu HJ, Chen Y, Li YH, Peng YF, Chen XP. Safety Assessment of Bacillus thuringiensis Insecticidal Proteins Cry1C and Cry2A with a Zebrafish Embryotoxicity Test. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2018; 66:4336-4344. [PMID: 29653490 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.8b01070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
As a result of the large-scale planting of transgenic Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) crops, fish would be exposed to freely soluble Bt insecticidal protein(s) that are released from Bt crop tissues into adjacent bodies of water or by way of direct feeding on deposited plant material. To assess the safety of two Bt proteins Cry1C and Cry2A to fish, we used zebrafish as a representative species and exposed their embryos to 0.1, 1, and 10 mg/L of the two Cry proteins until 132 h post-fertilization and then several developmental, biochemical, and molecular parameters were evaluated. Chlorpyrifos (CPF), a known toxicant to aquatic organisms, was used as a positive control. Although CPF exposure resulted in significant developmental, biochemical, and molecular changes in the zebrafish embryos, there were almost no significant differences after Cry1C or Cry2A exposure. Thus, we conclude that zebrafish embryos are not sensitive to Cry1C and Cry2A insecticidal proteins at test concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Jie Gao
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection , Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences , No. 2 West Yuanmingyuan Road , Haidian District, Beijing 100193 , People's Republic of China
| | - Hao-Jun Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection , Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences , No. 2 West Yuanmingyuan Road , Haidian District, Beijing 100193 , People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fisheries and Germplasm Resources Utilization, Ministry of Agriculture, Freshwater Fisheries Research Center , Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences , Wuxi , Jiangsu 214081 , People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection , Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences , No. 2 West Yuanmingyuan Road , Haidian District, Beijing 100193 , People's Republic of China
- Research Division Agroecology and Environment , Agroscope , 8046 Zurich , Switzerland
| | - Yun-He Li
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection , Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences , No. 2 West Yuanmingyuan Road , Haidian District, Beijing 100193 , People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Fa Peng
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection , Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences , No. 2 West Yuanmingyuan Road , Haidian District, Beijing 100193 , People's Republic of China
| | - Xiu-Ping Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection , Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences , No. 2 West Yuanmingyuan Road , Haidian District, Beijing 100193 , People's Republic of China
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14
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Novak M, Žegura B, Modic B, Heath E, Filipič M. Cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of anticancer drug residues and their mixtures in experimental model with zebrafish liver cells. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 601-602:293-300. [PMID: 28558277 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.05.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2017] [Revised: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/13/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Anticancer drugs enter aquatic environment predominantly via hospital and municipal wastewater effluents where they may, due to their genotoxic potential, cause adverse environmental effects even at very low doses. In this study we evaluated cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of two widely used anticancer drugs, cyclophosphamide (CP) and ifosfamide (IF) as individual compounds and in a complex mixture together with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and cisplatin (CDDP) because these four drugs have been frequently detected in an oncological ward effluents. As an experimental model we used zebrafish liver cell (ZFL) line. The cytotoxicity was determined with the MTS assay and genotoxicity with the comet assay and cytokinesis block micronucleus (CBMN) assay that measure the formation of DNA strand breaks and genomic instability, respectively. CP and IF exerted low cytotoxicity towards ZFL cells. Both compounds induced DNA strand breaks and genomic instability, however at relatively high concentrations that are not relevant for the contamination of aquatic environment. The mixture of CP, IF, 5-FU and CDDP was tested at maximal detected concentrations of each drug as determined in the effluents from the oncological ward. The mixture was not cytotoxic and did not induce genomic instability, but it induced significant increase in the formation of DNA strand breaks at concentrations of individual compounds that were several orders of magnitude lower from those that were effective when tested as individual compounds. The results indicate that such mixtures of anticancer drugs may pose a threat to aquatic organisms at environmentally relevant concentrations and contribute to the accumulating evidence that it is not always possible to predict adverse effects of complex mixtures based on the toxicological data for individual compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matjaž Novak
- National Institute of Biology, Department of Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, Večna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; Ecological Engineering Institute, Ljubljanska ulica 9, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; Jozef Stefan International Postgraduate School, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Bojana Žegura
- National Institute of Biology, Department of Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, Večna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Barbara Modic
- National Institute of Biology, Department of Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, Večna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Ester Heath
- Institute Jozef Stefan, Jadranska 29, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Metka Filipič
- National Institute of Biology, Department of Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, Večna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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15
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Cardoso PG, Rodrigues D, Madureira TV, Oliveira N, Rocha MJ, Rocha E. Warming modulates the effects of the endocrine disruptor progestin levonorgestrel on the zebrafish fitness, ovary maturation kinetics and reproduction success. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2017; 229:300-311. [PMID: 28601762 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.05.090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2017] [Revised: 05/29/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Interactive effects between multiple stressors, namely climate drivers (e.g., temperature) and chemical pollution (e.g., endocrine disruptors) are poorly studied. Here, it was for the first time evaluated the combinatory effects of temperature and a synthetic progestin, levonorgestrel (LNG), on the fitness and reproductive-related endpoints of zebrafish (Danio rerio). A multi-factorial design was implemented by manipulating both temperature [setting as baseline an ambient temperature of 27 °C, against warming (+3 °C)] and LNG levels (10 ngL-1 and 1000 ngL-1). Groups of males and females were exposed sub-acutely, for 21-days. Increased temperature caused an overall decrease in the females' gonadosomatic index (GSI), during the pre-reproduction phase, LNG did not affect GSI. In addition, fecundity (number of ovulated eggs) was negatively affected by both temperature and LNG, being the effect of the latter more intense. Fish exposed to the highest LNG concentration (at both temperatures) did not reproduce, but also in those exposed to the lowest dose of progestin at a higher temperature, a complete reproductive failure occurred. These results reflect what was observed in the stereological analysis of the ovary maturation stages prior to reproduction. Accordingly, the higher the LNG concentration, the lower the degree of maturation of the ovary. This was exacerbated by the higher temperature. As to embryonated eggs, they hatched significantly faster at higher temperatures, but exposure to 10 ngL-1 of LNG (at 27 °C) reduced significantly the hatching rate, comparing to control. Further, the recrudescence of the ovary 48 h after spawning seems to be not affected by both stressors. Our data suggest that in a future scenario of global warming and synthetic hormones exposure, the reproduction of fish species, such as the zebrafish, can be endangered, which can put at risk their success, and consequently affect the structure and functioning of associated aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- P G Cardoso
- Group of Histomorphology, Physiopathology and Applied Toxicology, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR/CIMAR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
| | - D Rodrigues
- Group of Histomorphology, Physiopathology and Applied Toxicology, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR/CIMAR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - T V Madureira
- Group of Histomorphology, Physiopathology and Applied Toxicology, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR/CIMAR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - N Oliveira
- Group of Histomorphology, Physiopathology and Applied Toxicology, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR/CIMAR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - M J Rocha
- Group of Histomorphology, Physiopathology and Applied Toxicology, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR/CIMAR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - E Rocha
- Group of Histomorphology, Physiopathology and Applied Toxicology, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR/CIMAR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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16
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Mezzomo BP, Miranda-Vilela AL, Barbosa LCP, Albernaz VL, Grisolia CK. Hematotoxicity and genotoxicity evaluations in Swiss mice intraperitoneally exposed to Bacillus thuringiensis (var kurstaki) spore crystals genetically modified to express individually Cry1Aa, Cry1Ab, Cry1Ac, or Cry2Aa. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2016; 31:970-978. [PMID: 25899034 DOI: 10.1002/tox.22106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2014] [Revised: 12/16/2014] [Accepted: 12/21/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) has been widely used in foliar sprays as part of integrated pest management strategies against insect pests of agricultural crops. Since the advent of genetically modified plants expressing Bt δ-endotoxins, the bioavailability of Cry proteins has increased, and therefore for biosafety reasons their adverse effects should be studied, mainly for nontarget organisms. We evaluated, in Swiss mice, the hematotoxicity and genotoxicity of the genetically modified strains of Bt spore crystals Cry1Aa, 1Ab, 1Ac, or 2Aa at 27 mg/kg, and Cry1Aa, 1Ab and 2Aa also at 136 and 270 mg/kg, administered with a single intraperitoneal injection 24 h before euthanasia. Controls received filtered water or cyclophosphamide. Blood samples collected by cardiac puncture were used to perform hemogram, and bone marrow was extracted for the micronucleus test. Bt spore crystals presented toxicity for lymphocytes when in higher doses, which varied according to the type of spore crystal studied, besides promoting cytotoxic and genotoxic effects for the erythroid lineage of bone marrow, mainly at highest doses. Although the profile of such adverse side effects can be related to their high level of exposure, which is not commonly found in the environment, results indicated that these Bt spore crystals were not harmless to mice. This suggests that a more specific approach should be taken to increase knowledge about their toxicological properties and to establish the toxicological risks to nontarget organisms. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 31: 970-978, 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bélin Poletto Mezzomo
- Department of Genetics and Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia/DF, Brazil
| | - Ana Luisa Miranda-Vilela
- Department of Genetics and Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia/DF, Brazil
- Faculty of Medicine, Faciplac, Campus Gama/DF, Brazil
| | - Lilian Carla Pereira Barbosa
- Department of Genetics and Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia/DF, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Lima Albernaz
- Department of Genetics and Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia/DF, Brazil
| | - Cesar Koppe Grisolia
- Department of Genetics and Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia/DF, Brazil
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Farias DF, Peijnenburg AACM, Grossi-de-Sá MF, Carvalho AFU. Food safety knowledge on the Bt mutant protein Cry8Ka5 employed in the development of coleopteran-resistant transgenic cotton plants. Bioengineered 2015; 6:323-7. [PMID: 26513483 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2015.1109755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Insecticidal Cry proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) have been exploited in the development of genetically modified (GM) crops for pest control. However, several pests are still difficult to control such as the coleopteran boll weevil Anthonomus grandis. By applying in vitro molecular evolution to the cry8Ka1 gene sequence, variants were generated with improved activity against A. grandis. Among them, Cry8Ka5 mutant protein showed coleoptericidal activity 3-fold higher (LC50 2.83 μg/mL) than that of the original protein (Cry8Ka1). Cry8Ka5 has been used in breeding programs in order to obtain coleopteran-resistant cotton plants. Nevertheless, there is some concern in relation to the food safety of transgenic crops, especially to the heterologously expressed proteins. In this context, our research group has performed risk assessment studies on Cry8Ka5, using the tests recommended by Codex as well as tests that we proposed as alternative and/or complementary approaches. Our results on the risk analysis of Cry8Ka5 taken together with those of other Cry proteins, point out that there is a high degree of certainty on their food safety. It is reasonable to emphasize that most safety studies on Cry proteins have essentially used the Codex approach. However, other methodologies would potentially provide additional information such as studies on the effects of Cry proteins and derived peptides on the indigenous gastrointestinal microbiota and on intestinal epithelial cells of humans. Additionally, emerging technologies such as toxicogenomics potentially will offer sensitive alternatives for some current approaches or methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davi F Farias
- a Federal University of Ceará; Graduate Program in Biochemistry; Campus Pici ; Fortaleza , Brazil
| | - Ad A C M Peijnenburg
- b RIKILT Institute of Food Safety; Wageningen University and Research Center ; Wageningen , The Netherlands
| | - Maria F Grossi-de-Sá
- c National Center of Genetic Resources (Embrapa-Cenargen) ; Parque Estação Biológica - PqEB; Brasília , DF , Brazil.,d Catholic University of Brasília, Graduate Program in Genomics Sciences and Biotechnology ; Asa Norte , Brasília, DF , Brazil
| | - Ana F U Carvalho
- a Federal University of Ceará; Graduate Program in Biochemistry; Campus Pici ; Fortaleza , Brazil
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18
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Lajmanovich RC, Junges CM, Cabagna-Zenklusen MC, Attademo AM, Peltzer PM, Maglianese M, Márquez VE, Beccaria AJ. Toxicity of Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis in aqueous suspension on the South American common frog Leptodactylus latrans (Anura: Leptodactylidae) tadpoles. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2015; 136:205-212. [PMID: 25460638 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2014.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2014] [Revised: 10/25/2014] [Accepted: 10/28/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The effects of commercial formulations of Bacillus thuringiensisvar.israelensis (Bti) on non-target organisms are still a matter of debate; in amphibians, the risks of Bti are little known. To evaluate the toxicity of a commercial liquid (aqueous suspension, AS) formulation of Bti (Introban(®)) on Leptodactylus latrans tadpoles, including median lethal concentration (LC50) and no-and lowest-observed-effect concentrations (NOEC and LOEC, respectively), as well as the possible effects of Bti on oxidative responses, erythrocytes genotoxicity, and histology of the intestines. In the laboratory, tadpoles were exposed to nominal concentrations of 0 (control), 2.5, 5, 10, 20 and 40 mg/L of formulated Bti-AS. Glutathione S-transferase (GST) and catalase (CAT) activities, as well as formation of erythrocyte nuclear abnormalities (ENAs), and histological effect were measured in tadpoles displaying survival rates >85%. L. latrans tadpoles were sensitive to exposure to Bti-AS, reaching 100% mortality after 48 h of exposure at the highest concentration. Bti-AS induced GST and CAT enzymes and genotoxicity (erythrocyte's nuclear abnormalities), and caused intestine's histopathology. Our results demonstrate that toxicity of Bti-AS is dose-dependent for L. latrans tadpoles and that sublethal exposure alters enzymes of oxidative stress, induces genotoxicity, and causes intestine damage. Further research is needed to evaluate the ecotoxicological risk of the massive use of Bti formulations on amphibian populations that commonly used suburban wastewater or urban waterbodies to reproduce and where this biopesticide is frequently applied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael C Lajmanovich
- National Council for Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Faculty of Biochemistry and Biological Sciences (FBCB-UNL), Ciudad Universitaria Paraje el Pozo s/n, 3000 Santa Fe, Argentina.
| | - Celina M Junges
- National Council for Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Faculty of Biochemistry and Biological Sciences (FBCB-UNL), Ciudad Universitaria Paraje el Pozo s/n, 3000 Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Mariana C Cabagna-Zenklusen
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Biological Sciences (FBCB-UNL), Ciudad Universitaria Paraje el Pozo s/n, 3000 Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Andrés M Attademo
- National Council for Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Faculty of Biochemistry and Biological Sciences (FBCB-UNL), Ciudad Universitaria Paraje el Pozo s/n, 3000 Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Paola M Peltzer
- National Council for Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Faculty of Biochemistry and Biological Sciences (FBCB-UNL), Ciudad Universitaria Paraje el Pozo s/n, 3000 Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Mariana Maglianese
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Biological Sciences (FBCB-UNL), Ciudad Universitaria Paraje el Pozo s/n, 3000 Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Vanina E Márquez
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Biological Sciences (FBCB-UNL), Ciudad Universitaria Paraje el Pozo s/n, 3000 Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Alejandro J Beccaria
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Biological Sciences (FBCB-UNL), Ciudad Universitaria Paraje el Pozo s/n, 3000 Santa Fe, Argentina
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de Souza Freire I, Miranda-Vilela AL, Barbosa LCP, Martins ES, Monnerat RG, Grisolia CK. Evaluation of cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and hematotoxicity of the recombinant spore-crystal complexes Cry1Ia, Cry10Aa and Cry1Ba6 from Bacillus thuringiensis in Swiss mice. Toxins (Basel) 2014; 6:2872-85. [PMID: 25268978 PMCID: PMC4210873 DOI: 10.3390/toxins6102872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2014] [Revised: 07/29/2014] [Accepted: 08/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The insecticidal properties of Cry-endotoxins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) have long been used as spore-crystals in commercial spray formulations for insect control. Recently, some Bt-endotoxin genes have been cloned in many different plants. Toxicological evaluations of three spore-crystal endotoxins, BtCry1Ia, BtCry10Aa and BtCry1Ba6 from B. thuringiensis, were carried out on mice to understand their adverse effects on hematological systems and on genetic material. These three spore-crystals have shown toxic activity to the boll weevil, which is one of the most aggressive pests of the cotton crop. Cry1Ia, Cry10Aa and Cry1Ba6 did not increase the micronucleus frequency in the peripheral erythrocytes of mice and did not cause changes in the frequency of polychromatic erythrocytes. However, some hematologic disburbances were observed, specifically related to Cry1Ia and Cry1Ba6, respectively, for the erythroid and lymphoid lineage. Thus, although the profile of such adverse side effects can be related to their high level of exposure, which is not commonly found in the environment, results showed that these Bt spore-crystals were not harmless to mice, indicating that each spore-crystal endotoxin presents a characteristic profile of toxicity and might be investigated individually.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid de Souza Freire
- Department of Genetics and Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil.
| | - Ana Luisa Miranda-Vilela
- Department of Genetics and Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil.
| | - Lilian Carla Pereira Barbosa
- Department of Genetics and Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil.
| | - Erica Soares Martins
- Instituto Mato-Grossense do Algodão-IMAmt/Faculdades Integradas ICESP/Promove de Brasília, Brasília 78008-000, Brazil.
| | - Rose Gomes Monnerat
- Laboratory of Bacteriology, Centro Nacional de Recursos Genéticos (CENARGEN), Brasília 70770-917, Brazil.
| | - Cesar Koppe Grisolia
- Department of Genetics and Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil.
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Evaluation of cytotoxic and antimicrobial effects of two Bt Cry proteins on a GMO safety perspective. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:810490. [PMID: 25165717 PMCID: PMC4140143 DOI: 10.1155/2014/810490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Studies have contested the innocuousness of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) Cry proteins to mammalian cells as well as to mammals microbiota. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic and antimicrobial effects of two Cry proteins, Cry8Ka5 (a novel mutant protein) and Cry1Ac (a widely distributed protein in GM crops). Evaluation of cyto- and genotoxicity in human lymphocytes was performed as well as hemolytic activity coupled with cellular membrane topography analysis in mammal erythrocytes. Effects of Cry8Ka5 and Cry1Ac upon Artemia sp. nauplii and upon bacteria and yeast growth were assessed. The toxins caused no significant effects on the viability (IC50 > 1,000 µg/mL) or to the cellular DNA integrity of lymphocytes (no effects at 1,000 µg/mL). The Cry8Ka5 and Cry1Ac proteins did not cause severe damage to erythrocytes, neither with hemolysis (IC50 > 1,000 µg/mL) nor with alterations in the membrane. Likewise, the Cry8Ka5 and Cry1Ac proteins presented high LC50 (755.11 and >1,000 µg/mL, resp.) on the brine shrimp lethality assay and showed no growth inhibition of the microorganisms tested (MIC > 1,000 µg/mL). This study contributed with valuable information on the effects of Cry8Ka5 and Cry1Ac proteins on nontarget organisms, which reinforce their potential for safe biotechnological applications.
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Chakravarthy S, Sadagopan S, Nair A, Sukumaran SK. Zebrafish as anIn VivoHigh-Throughput Model for Genotoxicity. Zebrafish 2014; 11:154-66. [DOI: 10.1089/zeb.2013.0924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sathish Sadagopan
- Discovery Biology, Anthem Biosciences Private Limited, Bangalore, India
| | - Ayyappan Nair
- Discovery Biology, Anthem Biosciences Private Limited, Bangalore, India
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Freire IS, Miranda-Vilela AL, Fascineli ML, Oliveira-Filho EC, Martins ES, Monnerat RG, Grisolia CK. Genotoxic evaluation in Oreochromis niloticus (Fish: Characidae) of recombinant spore-crystal complexes Cry1Ia, Cry10Aa and Cry1Ba6 from Bacillus thuringiensis. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2014; 23:267-272. [PMID: 24374720 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-013-1170-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/18/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Bioinsecticides from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) are widely used around the world in biological control against larval stages of many insect species. Bt has been considered a biopesticide that is highly specific to different orders of insects, non-polluting and harmless to humans and other vertebrates, thus becoming a viable alternative for combating agricultural pests and insect vectors of diseases. The family of Bt δ-endotoxins are crystal-protein inclusions showing toxicity to insects' midgut, causing cell lysis leading to starvation, septicemia and death. The aim of this study is to evaluate the genotoxic potential of recombinant Bt spore-crystals expressing Cry1Ia, Cry10Aa and Cry1Ba6 on peripheral erythrocyte cells of Oreochromis niloticus, through comet assay, micronucleus (MN) test and nuclear abnormalities (NA) analysis. Fish (n = 10/group) were exposed for 96 h at 10(7) spores 30 l(-1), 10(8) spores 30 l(-1) or 10(9) spores 30 l(-1) of Bt spore-crystals. Cry1Ia showed a significant increase in comet cells at levels 1 and 2, but not at levels 3 and 4, so it was not mutagenic nor did it induce MN or NA. These three spore-crystals showed some fish toxicity at only the highest exposure level, which normally does not occur in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- I S Freire
- Department of Genetics and Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasília, DF, Brazil
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Beasley A, Graham C, Otter R, Elrod-Erickson M. A molecular method for assessing the effects of potential contaminants on the rate of zebrafish (Danio rerio) development. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2014; 33:238-242. [PMID: 24122956 DOI: 10.1002/etc.2428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2013] [Revised: 06/21/2013] [Accepted: 10/07/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Monitoring expression of the developmentally regulated genes shh, sox2, and tnnt1 by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) allows determination of the rate of embryogenesis in zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos without direct visual observation. The utility of combining this approach and morphological methods during toxicity studies was demonstrated with embryos developing at either 28.5 °C or 24.5 °C and with embryos exposed to sublethal doses of silver nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Beasley
- Department of Biology, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, Tennessee, USA
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Consistency of morphological endpoints used to assess developmental timing in zebrafish (Danio rerio) across a temperature gradient. Reprod Toxicol 2012; 34:561-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2012.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2012] [Revised: 06/16/2012] [Accepted: 07/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Mezzomo BP, Miranda-Vilela AL, de Souza Freire I, Barbosa LCP, Portilho FA, Lacava ZGM, Grisolia CK. WITHDRAWN: Effects of oral administration of Bacillus thuringiensis as spore-crystal strains Cry1Aa, Cry1Ab, Cry1Ac or Cry2Aa on hematologic and genotoxic endpoints of Swiss albino mice. Food Chem Toxicol 2012:S0278-6915(12)00777-6. [PMID: 23146696 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2012.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2012] [Revised: 08/06/2012] [Accepted: 10/26/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
This article has been withdrawn at the request of the author(s) and/or editor. The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. The full Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal can be found at http://www.elsevier.com/locate/withdrawalpolicy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bélin Poletto Mezzomo
- Departamento de Genética e Morfologia, Laboratório de Genética, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brası´lia, Brası´lia/DF, Brazil
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26
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Landrum PF, Chapman PM, Neff J, Page DS. Evaluating the aquatic toxicity of complex organic chemical mixtures: lessons learned from polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon and petroleum hydrocarbon case studies. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2012; 8:217-230. [PMID: 21913322 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2011] [Revised: 07/15/2011] [Accepted: 09/04/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Experimental designs for evaluating complex mixture toxicity in aquatic environments can be highly variable and, if not appropriate, can produce and have produced data that are difficult or impossible to interpret accurately. We build on and synthesize recent critical reviews of mixture toxicity using lessons learned from 4 case studies, ranging from binary to more complex mixtures of primarily polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and petroleum hydrocarbons, to provide guidance for evaluating the aquatic toxicity of complex mixtures of organic chemicals. Two fundamental requirements include establishing a dose-response relationship and determining the causative agent (or agents) of any observed toxicity. Meeting these 2 requirements involves ensuring appropriate exposure conditions and measurement endpoints, considering modifying factors (e.g., test conditions, test organism life stages and feeding behavior, chemical transformations, mixture dilutions, sorbing phases), and correctly interpreting dose-response relationships. Specific recommendations are provided.
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27
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Page DS, Chapman PM, Landrum PF, Neff J, Elston R. A Perspective on the Toxicity of Low Concentrations of Petroleum-Derived Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons to Early Life Stages of Herring and Salmon. HUMAN AND ECOLOGICAL RISK ASSESSMENT : HERA 2012; 18:229-260. [PMID: 22754275 PMCID: PMC3379735 DOI: 10.1080/10807039.2012.650569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
This article presents a critical review of two groups of studies that reported adverse effects to salmon and herring eggs and fry from exposure to 1 μg/L or less of aqueous total polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (TPAH), as weathered oil, and a more toxic aqueous extract of "very weathered oil." Exposure media were prepared by continuously flowing water up through vertical columns containing gravel oiled at different concentrations of Prudhoe Bay crude oil. Uncontrolled variables associated with the use of the oiled gravel columns included time- and treatment-dependent variations in the PAH concentration and composition in the exposure water, unexplored toxicity from other oil constituents/degradation products, potential toxicity from bacterial and fungal activity, oil droplets as a potential contaminant source, inherent differences between control and exposed embryo populations, and water flow rate differences. Based on a review of the evidence from published project reports, peer-reviewed publications, chemistry data in a public database, and unpublished reports and laboratory records, the reviewed studies did not establish consistent dose (concentration) response or causality and thus do not demonstrate that dissolved PAH alone from the weathered oil resulted in the claimed effects on fish embryos at low μg/L TPAH concentrations. Accordingly, these studies should not be relied on for management decision-making, when assessing the risk of very low-level PAH exposures to early life stages of fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S. Page
- Bowdoin College, Chemistry Department, Brunswick, ME, USA
- Address correspondence to David S. Page, Bowdoin College Chemistry Department, 6600 College Station, Brunswick, ME 04011-8466, USA. E-mail:
| | | | - Peter F. Landrum
- Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Department of Zoology, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | | | - Ralph Elston
- Ralph Elston, Aquatechnics Inc., Carlsborg, WA, USA
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Zhu L, Dong X, Xie H, Wang J, Wang J, Su J, Yu C. DNA damage and effects on glutathione-S-transferase activity induced by atrazine exposure in zebrafish (Danio rerio). ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2011; 26:480-488. [PMID: 20549606 DOI: 10.1002/tox.20575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2009] [Revised: 01/19/2010] [Accepted: 01/26/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
This study was undertaken to investigate the protective effect of atrazine (2-chloro-4-(ethylamino)-6-(isopropylamino)-S-triazine) on the activity of glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and DNA damage in males and females of adult zebrafish (Danio rerio). Zebrafish were exposed to control and three treatments (0.01, 0.1, and 1 mg/L) of atrazine for 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 days. The results indicated that, for males, the GST activity at lower atrazine concentrations (0.01 and 0.1 mg/L) was markedly higher than that of the controls throughout the duration of the experiment while there was a significant inhibition of the GST activity at 1 mg/L atrazine at days 5 and 20. For females, a significant increase was detected at 0.1 mg/L on the days 5 and 15 and at 0.01 mg/L on day 20. The DNA damage in zebrafish was evaluated using the comet assay; the olive tail moments obtained for hepatopancreas were enhanced after treatment with different concentrations of atrazine on days 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25. The DNA damage increased with increasing atrazine concentrations, indicating that genotoxicity of atrazine and significant differences was found compared to the controls. In conclusion, these findings provide further evidence of the effects of atrazine on aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lusheng Zhu
- College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agriculture University, Taian 271018, China.
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