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Panzenhagen AC, Petry FDS, Alves-Teixeira A, Santos L, Carazza-Kessler FG, Gelain DP, Moreira JCF. Biomarkers of methylmercury neurotoxicity and neurodevelopmental features: A systematic review. Food Chem Toxicol 2024; 191:114851. [PMID: 38986832 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2024.114851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
The issue of MeHg contamination is a significant concern due to its detrimental impact on the environment. This study aimed to thoroughly investigate the effects of MeHg on neurodevelopmental biomarkers, as there is a lack of systematic reviews in this area. We conducted a comprehensive search of three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) and found 522 records, which were then meticulously reviewed by two independent reviewers. A total of 66 studies were included, with biomarkers related to oxidative stress, neurotransmission, inflammation, epigenetics, and apoptosis being the most prominent. The results of both in vitro and in vivo models indicate that antioxidant enzymes and other oxidative stress-related markers are indeed, altered following MeHg exposure. Moreover, MeHg exposure causes significant disruptions to neurotransmitter levels, activities of neurotransmitter synthesis enzymes, receptor densities, and proteins involved in synaptic function. Proinflammatory biomarkers are consistently overexpressed in both MeHg-treated cells and the brains of exposed rats. Furthermore, studies on DNA methylation and biomarker activity suggest that MeHg exposure may lead to neurotoxicity and neurodevelopmental issues via perturbations to epigenetic markers and the apoptosis pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alana Castro Panzenhagen
- Centro de Estudos Em Estresse Oxidativo, Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
| | - Fernanda Dos Santos Petry
- Centro de Estudos Em Estresse Oxidativo, Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Alexsander Alves-Teixeira
- Centro de Estudos Em Estresse Oxidativo, Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Lucas Santos
- Centro de Estudos Em Estresse Oxidativo, Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Flávio Gabriel Carazza-Kessler
- Centro de Estudos Em Estresse Oxidativo, Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Daniel Pens Gelain
- Centro de Estudos Em Estresse Oxidativo, Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - José Cláudio Fonseca Moreira
- Centro de Estudos Em Estresse Oxidativo, Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Rodrigues KE, de Oliveira FR, Barbosa BRC, Paraense RSO, Bannwart CM, Pinheiro BG, Botelho ADS, Muto NA, do Amarante CB, Hamoy M, Macchi BDM, Maia CDSF, do Prado AF, do Nascimento JLM. Aqueous Coriandrum sativum L. extract promotes neuroprotection against motor changes and oxidative damage in rat progeny after maternal exposure to methylmercury. Food Chem Toxicol 2019; 133:110755. [PMID: 31408720 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2019.110755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 08/03/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effects of Coriandrum sativum aqueous extract (CSAE) on the rat progeny of mothers exposed to methylmercury (MeHg). The presence of bioactive compounds and CSAE's antioxidant capacity been evaluated, and the offspring were assessed for their total mercury levels, motor behavioral parameters and oxidative stress in the cerebellum. The analysis of the bioactive compounds revealed significant amounts of polyphenols, flavonoids, and anthocyanins, as well as a variety of minerals. A DPPH test showed the CSAE had important antioxidant activity. The MeHg + CSAE group performed significantly better spontaneous locomotor activity, palmar grip strength, balance, and motor coordination in behavioral tests compared the MeHg group, as well as in the parameters of oxidative stress, with similar results to those of the control group. The MeHg + CSAE group also had significantly reduced mercury levels in comparison to the MeHg group. Based on the behavioral tests, which detected large locomotor, balance, and coordination improvements, as well as a reduction in oxidative stress, we conclude that CSAE had positive functional results in the offspring of rats exposed to MeHg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keuri Eleutério Rodrigues
- Neuroscience and Cellular Biology Post Graduation Program, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Para, Belem, PA, Brazil; Molecular and Cellular Neurochemistry Laboratory, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Para, Belem, PA, Brazil
| | - Fábio Rodrigues de Oliveira
- Neuroscience and Cellular Biology Post Graduation Program, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Para, Belem, PA, Brazil; Bromatology and Quality Control Laboratory, Health and Biological Sciences Department, Federal University of Amapa (UNIFAP), Macapa, Ap, Brazil
| | - Benilson Ramos Cassunde Barbosa
- Molecular and Cellular Neurochemistry Laboratory, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Para, Belem, PA, Brazil
| | - Ricardo S Oliveira Paraense
- Molecular and Cellular Neurochemistry Laboratory, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Para, Belem, PA, Brazil
| | - Cahy Manoel Bannwart
- Molecular and Cellular Neurochemistry Laboratory, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Para, Belem, PA, Brazil
| | - Bruno Gonçalves Pinheiro
- Behavioral and Inflammatory Pharmacology Laboratory, Health Sciences Institute, Pharmacy College, Federal University of Para, Belem, PA, Brazil
| | | | - Nilton Akio Muto
- Amazonian Bioactive Compounds Valorization Center, Federal University of Para, Belem, PA, Brazil
| | | | - Moises Hamoy
- Natural Products' Toxicology and Pharmacology Laboratory, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Para, Belem, PA, Brazil
| | - Barbarella de Matos Macchi
- Molecular and Cellular Neurochemistry Laboratory, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Para, Belem, PA, Brazil
| | - Cristiane do Socorro Ferraz Maia
- Behavioral and Inflammatory Pharmacology Laboratory, Health Sciences Institute, Pharmacy College, Federal University of Para, Belem, PA, Brazil
| | - Alejandro Ferraz do Prado
- Structural Biology Laboratory, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Para, Belem, PA, Brazil
| | - José Luiz Martins do Nascimento
- Neuroscience and Cellular Biology Post Graduation Program, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Para, Belem, PA, Brazil; Molecular and Cellular Neurochemistry Laboratory, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Para, Belem, PA, Brazil; National Institute of Science and Technology in Neuroimmunomodulation (INCT-NIM), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Pharmaceutical Sciences Post Graduation Program, Health and Biological Sciences Department, Federal University of Amapa (UNIFAP), Macapa, Ap, Brazil.
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Edoff K, Raciti M, Moors M, Sundström E, Ceccatelli S. Gestational Age and Sex Influence the Susceptibility of Human Neural Progenitor Cells to Low Levels of MeHg. Neurotox Res 2017; 32:683-693. [PMID: 28756503 PMCID: PMC5602033 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-017-9786-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2016] [Revised: 07/09/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The developing nervous system is highly susceptible to methylmercury (MeHg), a widespread environmental neurotoxic contaminant. A wide range of morphological and functional outcomes have been described; however, there are still open questions regarding the mechanisms behind the developmental neurotoxic effects induced by low-level exposure. In the present study, we have examined the effects of nanomolar concentrations of MeHg on primary fetal human progenitor cells (hNPCs) with special focus on the role played by developmental stage and sex on the neurotoxic outcome. We found that neurospheres derived from earlier gestational time points exhibit higher susceptibility to MeHg, as they undergo apoptosis at a much lower dose (25 nM) as compared to neurospheres established from older fetuses (100 nM). At subapoptotic concentrations (10 nM), MeHg inhibited neuronal differentiation and maturation of hNPCs, as shown by a reduced number of Tuj1-positive cells and a visible reduction in neurite extension and cell migration, associated with a misregulation of Notch1 and BDNF signaling pathways. Interestingly, cells derived from male fetuses showed more severe alterations of neuronal morphology as compared to cells from females, indicating that the MeHg-induced impairment of neurite extension and cell migration is sex-dependent. Accordingly, the expression of the CDKL5 gene, a major factor regulating neurite outgrowth, was significantly more downregulated in male-derived cells. Altogether, gestational age and sex appear to be critical factors influencing in vitro hNPC sensitivity to low levels of MeHg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Edoff
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Retzius väg 8, SE-171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marilena Raciti
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Retzius väg 8, SE-171 77, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Michaela Moors
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Retzius väg 8, SE-171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Erik Sundström
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences, and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Geriatrik-lab plan 5, SE-141 52, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Sandra Ceccatelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Retzius väg 8, SE-171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
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Rand MD, Dao JC, Clason TA. Methylmercury disruption of embryonic neural development in Drosophila. Neurotoxicology 2009; 30:794-802. [PMID: 19409416 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2009.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2008] [Revised: 04/21/2009] [Accepted: 04/21/2009] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a potent environmental neurotoxin that preferentially targets the developing embryonic nervous system. While a number of cytotoxic mechanisms of MeHg have been characterized in differentiated cells its mode of action in the developing nervous system in vivo is less clear. Studies in primate and rodent models demonstrate aberrant cell migration and disorganized patterning of cortical layers in the brain following MeHg exposure. However, defining the molecular and cellular pathways targeted by MeHg will require more genetically accessible animal models. In this study, we instigate a method of in vitro MeHg exposure using Drosophila embryos. We demonstrate dose-dependent inhibition of embryonic development with MeHg revealed by a failure of embryos to hatch to the larval stage. In addition, we document definitive phenotypes in neural development showing abnormalities in neuronal and glial cell patterning consistent with disrupted migration. We observe pronounced defects in neurite outgrowth in both central and peripheral neurons. Ectopic expression of the Nrf2 transcription factor in embryos, a core factor in the antioxidant response element (ARE) pathway, enhances embryonic development and hatching in the presence of MeHg, illustrating the power of this model for investigation of candidate MeHg tolerance genes. Our data establish a utility for the Drosophila embryo model as a platform for elucidating MeHg sensitive pathways in neural development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Rand
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, College of Medicine, University of Vermont, United States.
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Rand MD, Bland CE, Bond J. Methylmercury activates enhancer-of-split and bearded complex genes independent of the notch receptor. Toxicol Sci 2008; 104:163-76. [PMID: 18367466 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfn060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a persistent environmental toxin that has targeted effects on fetal neural development. Although a number of cytotoxic mechanisms of MeHg have been characterized in cultured cells, its mode of action in the developing nervous system in vivo is less clear. Studies of MeHg-affected rodent and human brains show disrupted cortical and cerebellar architecture suggestive of mechanisms that augment cell signaling pathways potentially affecting cell migration and proliferation. We previously identified the Notch receptor pathway, a highly conserved signaling mechanism fundamental for neural development, as a target for MeHg-induced signaling in Drosophila neural cell lines. Here we have expanded our use of the Drosophila model to resolve a broader spectrum of transcriptional changes resulting from MeHg exposure in vivo and in vitro. Several Notch target genes within the Enhancer-of-split (E(spl)C) and Bearded (BrdC) complexes are upregulated with MeHg exposure in the embryo and in cultured neural cells. However, the profile of MeHg-induced E(spl)C and BrdC gene expression differs significantly from that seen with activation of the Notch receptor. Targeted knockdown of Notch and of the downstream coactivator Suppressor of Hairless (Su(H)), shows no effect on MeHg-induced transcription, indicating a novel Notch-independent mechanism of action for MeHg. MeHg transcriptional activation is partially mimicked by iodoacetamide but not by N-ethylmaleimide, two thiol-specific electrophiles, revealing a degree of specificity of cellular thiol targets in MeHg-induced transcriptional events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Rand
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA.
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Johansson C, Castoldi AF, Onishchenko N, Manzo L, Vahter M, Ceccatelli S. Neurobehavioural and molecular changes induced by methylmercury exposure during development. Neurotox Res 2007; 11:241-60. [PMID: 17449462 DOI: 10.1007/bf03033570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
There is an increasing body of evidence on the possible environmental influence on neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. Both experimental and epidemiological studies have demonstrated the distinctive susceptibility of the developing brain to environmental factors such as lead, mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls at levels of exposure that have no detectable effects in adults. Methylmercury (MeHg) has long been known to affect neurodevelopment in both humans and experimental animals. Neurobehavioural effects reported include altered motoric function and memory and learning disabilities. In addition, there is evidence from recent experimental neurodevelopmental studies that MeHg can induce depression-like behaviour. Several mechanisms have been suggested from in vivo- and in vitro-studies, such as effects on neurotransmitter systems, induction of oxidative stress and disruption of microtubules and intracellular calcium homeostasis. Recent in vitro data show that very low levels of MeHg can inhibit neuronal differentiation of neural stem cells. This review summarises what is currently known about the neurodevelopmental effects of MeHg and consider the strength of different experimental approaches to study the effects of environmentally relevant exposure in vivo and in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Johansson
- Division of Toxicology and Neurotoxicology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Tamm C, Duckworth J, Hermanson O, Ceccatelli S. High susceptibility of neural stem cells to methylmercury toxicity: effects on cell survival and neuronal differentiation. J Neurochem 2006; 97:69-78. [PMID: 16524380 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2006.03718.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Neural stem cells (NSCs) play an essential role in both the developing embryonic nervous system through to adulthood where the capacity for self-renewal may be important for normal function of the CNS, such as in learning, memory and response to injury. There has been much excitement about the possibility of transplantation of NSCs to replace damaged or lost neurones, or by recruitment of endogenous precursors. However, before the full potential of NSCs can be realized, it is essential to understand the physiological pathways that control their proliferation and differentiation, as well as the influence of extrinsic factors on these processes. In the present study we used the NSC line C17.2 and primary embryonic cortical NSCs (cNSCs) to investigate the effects of the environmental contaminant methylmercury (MeHg) on survival and differentiation of NSCs. The results show that NSCs, in particular cNSCs, are highly sensitive to MeHg. MeHg induced apoptosis in both models via Bax activation, cytochrome c translocation, and caspase and calpain activation. Remarkably, exposure to MeHg at concentrations comparable to the current developmental exposure (via cord blood) of the general population in many countries inhibited spontaneous neuronal differentiation of NSCs. Our studies also identified the intracellular pathway leading to MeHg-induced apoptosis, and indicate that NSCs are more sensitive than differentiated neurones or glia to MeHg-induced cytotoxicity. The observed effects of MeHg on NSC differentiation offer new perspectives for evaluating the biological significance of MeHg exposure at low levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoffer Tamm
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Division of Toxicology and Neurotoxicology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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