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Dimitrov LV, Kaminski JW, Holbrook JR, Bitsko RH, Yeh M, Courtney JG, O'Masta B, Maher B, Cerles A, McGowan K, Rush M. A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Chemical Exposures and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2024; 25:225-248. [PMID: 38108946 PMCID: PMC11132938 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-023-01601-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to certain chemicals prenatally and in childhood can impact development and may increase risk for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Leveraging a larger set of literature searches conducted to synthesize results from longitudinal studies of potentially modifiable risk factors for childhood ADHD, we present meta-analytic results from 66 studies that examined the associations between early chemical exposures and later ADHD diagnosis or symptoms. Studies were eligible for inclusion if the chemical exposure occurred at least 6 months prior to measurement of ADHD diagnosis or symptomatology. Included papers were published between 1975 and 2019 on exposure to anesthetics (n = 5), cadmium (n = 3), hexachlorobenzene (n = 4), lead (n = 22), mercury (n = 12), organophosphates (n = 7), and polychlorinated biphenyls (n = 13). Analyses are presented for each chemical exposure by type of ADHD outcome reported (categorical vs. continuous), type of ADHD measurement (overall measures of ADHD, ADHD symptoms only, ADHD diagnosis only, inattention only, hyperactivity/impulsivity only), and timing of exposure (prenatal vs. childhood vs. cumulative), whenever at least 3 relevant effect sizes were available. Childhood lead exposure was positively associated with ADHD diagnosis and symptoms in all analyses except for the prenatal analyses (odds ratios (ORs) ranging from 1.60 to 2.62, correlation coefficients (CCs) ranging from 0.14 to 0.16). Other statistically significant associations were limited to organophosphates (CC = 0.11, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.03-0.19 for continuous measures of ADHD outcomes overall), polychlorinated biphenyls (CC = 0.08, 95% CI: 0.02-0.14 for continuous measures of inattention as the outcome), and both prenatal and childhood mercury exposure (CC = 0.02, 95% CI: 0.00-0.04 for continuous measures of ADHD outcomes overall for either exposure window). Our findings provide further support for negative impacts of prenatal and/or childhood exposure to certain chemicals and raise the possibility that primary prevention and targeted screening could prevent or mitigate ADHD symptomatology. Furthermore, these findings support the need for regular review of regulations as our scientific understanding of the risks posed by these chemicals evolves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina V Dimitrov
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center On Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Oak Ridge, TN, USA.
| | - Jennifer W Kaminski
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center On Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Joseph R Holbrook
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center On Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rebecca H Bitsko
- Division of Human Development and Disability, National Center On Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Michael Yeh
- Division of Environmental Health Science and Practice, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Joseph G Courtney
- Division of Environmental Health Science and Practice, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Brion Maher
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Sarzo B, Ballester F, Soler-Blasco R, Sunyer J, Lopez-Espinosa MJ, Ibarluzea J, Lozano M, Julvez J, Iriarte G, Subiza-Perez M, González-Safont L, Fernández-Somoano A, Vallejo-Ortega J, Guxens M, López-González UA, Riaño-Galán I, Riutort-Mayol G, Murcia M, Llop S. The impact of prenatal mercury on neurobehavioral functioning longitudinally assessed from a young age to pre-adolescence in a Spanish birth cohort. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 252:118954. [PMID: 38631469 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
The objective is to investigate the relation between cord blood mercury concentrations and child neurobehavioural functioning assessed longitudinally during childhood until pre-adolescence. METHODS The study involves mothers and their offspring engaged in the Spanish INMA birth cohort (n = 1147). Total mercury (THg) was determined in cord blood. Behavioural problems were assessed several times during childhood using the ADHD-DSM-IV at age 4, SDQ at ages 7 and 11, CPRS-R:S and the CBCL at ages 7, 9 and 11. Covariates were obtained through questionnaires during the whole period. Multivariate generalised negative binomial (MGNB) models or mixed-effects MGNB (for those tests with information at one or more time points, respectively) were used to investigate the relation between cord blood THg and the children's punctuations. Models were adjusted for prenatal fish intake. Effect modification by sex, prenatal and postnatal fish intake, prenatal fruit and vegetable intake, and maternal polychlorinated biphenyl concentrations (PCBs) was assessed by interaction terms. RESULTS The geometric mean ± standard deviation of cord blood THg was 8.22 ± 2.19 μg/L. Despite adjusting for fish consumption, our results did not show any statistically significant relationship between prenatal Hg and the children's performance on behavioural tests conducted between the ages of 4 and 11. Upon assessing the impact of various factors, we observed no statistically significant interaction. CONCLUSION Despite elevated prenatal THg exposure, no association was found with children's behavioural functioning assessed from early childhood to pre-adolescence. The nutrients in fish could offset the potential neurotoxic impact of Hg. Further birth cohort studies with longitudinal data are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanca Sarzo
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ferran Ballester
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Faculty of Nursing and Chiropody, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Raquel Soler-Blasco
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Faculty of Nursing and Chiropody, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Jordi Sunyer
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria-Jose Lopez-Espinosa
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Faculty of Nursing and Chiropody, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Jesus Ibarluzea
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Department of Clinical and Health Psychology and Research Methods, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, San Sebastian, Spain; BioGipuzkoa Health Research Institute, Environmental Epidemiology and Child Development Group, 20014, San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Manuel Lozano
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain; Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Food Sciences, Toxicology and Forensic Medicine Department, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Jordi Julvez
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain; Clinical and Epidemiological Neuroscience (Neuroèpia), Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), Reus, Spain
| | - Gorka Iriarte
- Public Health Laboratory of Euskadi (Headquarters of Araba) (LSPPV), Basque Country, Spain
| | - Mikel Subiza-Perez
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Department of Clinical and Health Psychology and Research Methods, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, San Sebastian, Spain; BioGipuzkoa Health Research Institute, Environmental Epidemiology and Child Development Group, 20014, San Sebastian, Spain; Bradford Institute for Health Research, Temple Bank House, Bradford Royal Infirmary, BD9 6RJ, Bradford, United Kingdom
| | - Llúcia González-Safont
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Fernández-Somoano
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Department of Medicine, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Asturias, Spain
| | - Jorge Vallejo-Ortega
- Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research in the Valencian Region, FISABIO-Public Health, Spain
| | - Mònica Guxens
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Isolina Riaño-Galán
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Department of Medicine, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Asturias, Spain; Servicio de Pediatría. Endocrinología pediátrica. HUCA. Oviedo. Asturias, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Oviedo, Asturias, Spain
| | - Gabriel Riutort-Mayol
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain; Department of Computer Science, Aalto University, Finland
| | - Mario Murcia
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Health Program and Policy Evaluation Service, Conselleria de Sanitat, Generalitat Valenciana, Valencia, Spain
| | - Sabrina Llop
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
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Balalian AA, Stingone JA, Kahn LG, Herbstman JB, Graeve RI, Stellman SD, Factor-Litvak P. Perinatal exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and child neurodevelopment: A comprehensive systematic review of outcomes and methodological approaches. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 252:118912. [PMID: 38615789 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), extensively used in various products, prompt ongoing concern despite reduced exposure since the 1970s. This systematic review explores prenatal PCB and hydroxylated metabolites (OH-PCBs) exposure's association with child neurodevelopment. Encompassing cognitive, motor development, behavior, attention, ADHD, and ASD risks, it also evaluates diverse methodological approaches in studies. METHODS PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, and Web of Science databases were searched through August 23, 2023, by predefined search strings. Peer-reviewed studies published in English were included. The inclusion criteria were: (i) PCBs/OH-PCBs measured directly in maternal and cord blood, placenta or breast milk collected in the perinatal period; (ii) outcomes of cognitive development, motor development, attention, behavior, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among children≤18 years old. Quality assessment followed the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's tool. RESULTS Overall, 87 studies were included in this review. We found evidence for the association between perinatal PCB exposure and adverse cognitive development and attention issues in middle childhood. There appeared to be no or negligible link between perinatal PCB exposure and early childhood motor development or the risk of ADHD/ASD. There was an indication of a sex-specific association with worse cognition and attention scores among boys. Some individual studies suggested a possible association between prenatal exposure to OH-PCBs and neurodevelopmental outcomes. There was significant heterogeneity between the studies in exposure markers, exposure assessment timing, outcome assessment, and statistical analysis. CONCLUSIONS Significant methodological, clinical and statistical heterogeneity existed in the included studies. Adverse effects on cognitive development and attention were observed in middle childhood. Little or no apparent link on both motor development and risk of ADHD/ASD was observed in early childhood. Inconclusive evidence prevailed regarding other neurodevelopmental aspects due to limited studies. Future research could further explore sex-specific associations and evaluate associations at lower exposure levels post-PCB ban in the US. It should also consider OH-PCB metabolites, co-pollutants, mixtures, and their potential interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arin A Balalian
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Question Driven Design and Analysis Group (QD-DAG), New York, NY, USA.
| | - Jeanette A Stingone
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Linda G Kahn
- Departments of Pediatrics and Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Julie B Herbstman
- Columbia Center for Children's Environmental Health, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Richard I Graeve
- Institute for Medical Sociology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle Saale, Germany
| | - Steven D Stellman
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Pam Factor-Litvak
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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Stalwick JA, Ratelle M, Gurney KEB, Drysdale M, Lazarescu C, Comte J, Laird B, Skinner K. Sources of exposure to lead in Arctic and subarctic regions: a scoping review. Int J Circumpolar Health 2023; 82:2208810. [PMID: 37196187 DOI: 10.1080/22423982.2023.2208810] [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: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding lead exposure pathways is a priority because of its ubiquitous presence in the environment as well as the potential health risks. We aimed to identify potential lead sources and pathways of lead exposure, including long-range transport, and the magnitude of exposure in Arctic and subarctic communities. A scoping review strategy and screening approach was used to search literature from January 2000 to December 2020. A total of 228 academic and grey literature references were synthesised. The majority of these studies (54%) were from Canada. Indigenous people in Arctic and subarctic communities in Canada had higher levels of lead than the rest of Canada. The majority of studies in all Arctic countries reported at least some individuals above the level of concern. Lead levels were influenced by a number of factors including using lead ammunition to harvest traditional food and living in close proximity to mines. Lead levels in water, soil, and sediment were generally low. Literature showed the possibility of long-range transport via migratory birds. Household lead sources included lead-based paint, dust, or tap water. This literature review will help to inform management strategies for communities, researchers, and governments, with the aim of decreasing lead exposure in northern regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordyn A Stalwick
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Science and Technology Branch, Prairie and Northern Wildlife Research Centre, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Mylène Ratelle
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Kirsty E B Gurney
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Science and Technology Branch, Prairie and Northern Wildlife Research Centre, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Mallory Drysdale
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Calin Lazarescu
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Jérôme Comte
- Institut National de Recherche Scientifique (INRS), Eau Terre Environnement Centre, Québec, Canada
| | - Brian Laird
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Kelly Skinner
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
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Klus JK, Thurston SW, Myers GJ, Watson GE, Rand MD, Love TM, Yeates AJ, Mulhern MS, McSorley EM, Strain JJ, Shamlaye CF, van Wijngaarden E. Postnatal methylmercury exposure and neurodevelopmental outcomes at 7 years of age in the Seychelles Child Development Study Nutrition Cohort 2. Neurotoxicology 2023; 99:115-119. [PMID: 37832849 PMCID: PMC10842381 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2023.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Consumption of fish yields many nutritional benefits, but also results in exposure to methylmercury (MeHg). The developing brain is known to be particularly susceptible to MeHg toxicity in high doses. However, the potential impact of low-level environmental exposure from fish consumption on children's neurodevelopment remains unclear. METHODS We investigated postnatal MeHg exposure at 7 years and its association with a battery of 17 neurodevelopmental outcomes in a subset of children (n = 376) from 1535 enrolled mother-child pairs in Nutrition Cohort 2 of the Seychelles Child Development Study (SCDS NC2). Each outcome was modeled in relation to postnatal MeHg exposure using linear regression, adjusting for prenatal MeHg exposure, levels of maternal polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), and several other covariates known to be associated with neurodevelopmental outcomes. RESULTS Median postnatal MeHg exposure at 7 years was 2.5 ppm, while the median prenatal MeHg exposure was 3.5 ppm. We found no statistically significant associations between postnatal MeHg exposure and any of the 17 neurodevelopmental outcomes after adjusting for prenatal MeHg exposure and other covariates. CONCLUSIONS These findings are consistent with previous cross-sectional analyses of the SCDS Main Cohort. Continued follow-up of the entire NC2 cohort at later ages with repeated exposure measures is needed to further confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan K Klus
- University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Sally W Thurston
- University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Gary J Myers
- University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Gene E Watson
- University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Matthew D Rand
- University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Tanzy M Love
- University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Alison J Yeates
- Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Maria S Mulhern
- Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Emeir M McSorley
- Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - J J Strain
- Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, UK
| | | | - Edwin van Wijngaarden
- University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA.
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Gagnon-Chauvin A, Jacobson SW, Jacobson JL, Fornasier-Bélanger M, Courtemanche Y, Ayotte P, Bélanger RE, Muckle G, Saint-Amour D. Pre- and postnatal exposure to legacy environmental contaminants and sensation seeking in Inuit adolescents from Nunavik. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002478. [PMID: 37851612 PMCID: PMC10584110 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Despite extensive evidence from cohort studies linking exposure to lead (Pb), mercury (Hg) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) to numerous cognitive outcomes in children and adolescents, very few studies addressed reward sensitivity, a key dimension of emotional regulation. The present study aimed to examine associations between pre- and postnatal exposure to these environmental neurotoxicants and sensation seeking, a behavioral feature of reward. A total of 207 Inuit adolescents (mean age = 18.5, SD = 1.2) from Nunavik, Canada, completed the Brief Sensation Seeking Scale (BSSS-4) and Sensation Seeking- 2 (SS-2), two self-report questionnaires assessing proneness to sensation seeking. Prenatal, childhood and adolescent exposure to Pb, Hg and PCBs were measured in cord blood at birth and blood samples at 11 years of age and at time of testing. Multiple linear regression models were performed, potential confounders including participants' sociodemographic characteristics and nutrient fish intake were considered. Results showed that higher child blood levels of Pb (b = -0.18, p = 0.01) and PCB-153 (b = -0.16, p = 0.06) were associated with lower BSSS-4 total scores, while cord and adolescent blood PCB-153 levels were significantly related to lower SS2 total scores (b = -0.15, p = 0.04; b = -0.24, p = 0.004). Such associations persisted after further adjustment for co-exposure to concurrent contaminants. These associations were influenced by self-report positive affect and marginally moderated by sex. Sex differences were only observed for child PCB exposure, with the association for risk-taking sensation seeking observed only in girls but not in boys. Further research is warranted to assess the extent to which reduced sensation seeking in chronically exposed individuals affects their behaviors, well-being, and emotional regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avril Gagnon-Chauvin
- Département de Psychologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal (Québec), Canada
- Centre de Recherche du CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal (Québec), Canada
| | - Sandra W. Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Joseph L. Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Mathieu Fornasier-Bélanger
- Département de Psychologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal (Québec), Canada
- Centre de Recherche du CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal (Québec), Canada
| | - Yohann Courtemanche
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec (Québec), Canada
| | - Pierre Ayotte
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec (Québec), Canada
- Département de Médecine Sociale et Préventive, Faculté de Médecine, Pavillon Ferdinand-Vandry, Université Laval, Québec (Québec), Canada
| | - Richard E. Bélanger
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec (Québec), Canada
- Département de Pédiatrie, Université Laval, Centre mère-enfant Soleil du CHU de Québec, Québec (Québec), Canada
| | - Gina Muckle
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec (Québec), Canada
- École de Psychologie, Université Laval, Québec (Québec), Canada
| | - Dave Saint-Amour
- Département de Psychologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal (Québec), Canada
- Centre de Recherche du CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal (Québec), Canada
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7
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Packull-McCormick S, Ashley-Martin J, Singh K, Fisher M, Arbuckle TE, Lanphear B, Laird BD, Muckle G, Booij L, Asztalos E, Walker M, Bouchard MF, Saint-Amour D, Boivin M, Borghese M. Prenatal and concurrent blood mercury concentrations and associations with IQ in canadian preschool children. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 233:116463. [PMID: 37343750 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116463] [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: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal and childhood mercury (Hg) exposures have been associated with negative impacts on child neurodevelopment. It is unclear if associations persist at the low Hg exposures typical in Western countries. OBJECTIVE To examine associations between prenatal/childhood blood Hg concentrations and child IQ in Canadian male and female children while considering the potential modifying role of prenatal fish consumption. METHODS We analyzed data from the Maternal-Infant Research on Environmental Chemicals study. Hg was measured in first trimester (n = 527), cord (n = 430), and child (at 3-4 years of age, n = 355) blood and examined sex-stratified associations between blood Hg and children's Full Scale IQ (FSIQ), Verbal IQ (VIQ), Performance IQ (PIQ), and General Language Composite (GLC) scores (assessed with WPPSI-III). Prenatal Hg analyses were further stratified by prenatal fish consumption (low: 0-2, moderate: 3-7, or high: ≥8 times/month). RESULTS Higher cord blood Hg concentrations were associated with lower PIQ (ß = -3.27; 95%CI: 6.44, -0.09) in male children with the lowest prenatal fish consumption. Progressively stronger positive associations were observed with PIQ in male children for moderate (ß = 1.08; 95%CI: 0.10, 2.26) and high (ß = 3.07; 95%CI: 1.95, 4.19) prenatal fish consumption. Cord blood Hg concentrations were positively associated with female children's FSIQ (ß = 1.29; 95% CI: 0.77, 1.81) and PIQ (ß = 2.01; 95% CI: 1.19, 2.83); however, when stratified only in the highest fish consumption subgroup. Among female children, higher child blood Hg concentrations were associated with an approximately 1-point increase in FSIQ, VIQ, and GLC. CONCLUSIONS Prenatal exposure to low levels of Hg was associated with lower PIQ scores in male children with low prenatal fish intake. Positive associations between cord and child blood Hg concentrations and IQ were primarily observed in female children and may be due to beneficial effects of prenatal fish intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Packull-McCormick
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada; School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Jillian Ashley-Martin
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Kavita Singh
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Mandy Fisher
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Tye E Arbuckle
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | | | - Brian D Laird
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Gina Muckle
- Université Laval, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada; Quebec CHU Research Center, QC, G1E 6W2, Canada
| | - Linda Booij
- Research Centre, Douglas Mental Health University Institute & Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada; CHU Sainte-Justine Research Rentre, QC, H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Asztalos
- Department of Newborn & Developmental Paediatrics, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, ON, M5G 1V7, Canada
| | - Mark Walker
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Maryse F Bouchard
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Montreal School of Public Health, QC, H3N 1X9, Canada
| | | | | | - Michael Borghese
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada.
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8
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Tsai TL, Hsieh CJ, Wu MT, Chen ML, Kuo PH, Wang SL. Co-exposure to toxic metals and phthalates in pregnant women and their children's mental health problems aged four years - Taiwan Maternal and Infant Cohort Study (TMICS). ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 173:107804. [PMID: 36842379 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.107804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood and adolescent mental health problems may increase the global burden of disease. Neurotoxic metals are associated with inflammation and cytotoxicity in the brain. In addition, prenatal phthalate ester (PAE) exposure is associated with cognitive function deficits. However, the effect of co-exposure to toxic metals, PAEs, and their association with child behavior is less well studied. Hence, we aimed to investigate prenatal co-exposure to the metals and PAEs and the consequent behavioral outcomes in early childhood. METHODS We followed pregnant women and their newborns from the Taiwan Maternal and Infant Cohort Study between 2015 and 2017, with a focus on women from the central, southern, and eastern areas of Taiwan. We quantified maternal urinary concentrations of metals and metabolites of PAEs as surrogates of prenatal exposure. We recorded the Child Behavior Checklist scores according to caregiver reports at 4 years of age, and identified Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5)-oriented problems. RESULTS Ultimately, 408 children were included in the statistical analysis. Maternal urinary copper levels were significantly associated with depressive problems (odds ratio [OR] = 2.13) in children. Maternal urinary concentrations of mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP) and mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP) were also significantly associated with depressive symptoms (odds ratio [OR] = 1.51 and 1.53, respectively). Further analysis considering prenatal co-exposure to metals and PAEs showed that co-exposure to these materials was significantly associated with autism spectrum problems (OR = 3.11). CONCLUSIONS We observed that prenatal single exposure or co-exposure to metals and PAEs may play a role in some DSM-5-oriented problems in children at 4 years of age. Reduction of exposure to toxic metals and PAEs in pregnancy is suggested to prevent increased mental health problems in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsung-Lin Tsai
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Jung Hsieh
- Department of Public Health, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Tsang Wu
- Research Center for Environmental Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Lien Chen
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Po-Hsiu Kuo
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Li Wang
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Life Science, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Safety, Health, and Environmental Engineering, National United University, Miaoli, Taiwan.
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Rokoff LB, Coull BA, Bosquet Enlow M, Korrick SA. Associations of Prenatal Chemical and Nonchemical Stressors with Early-Adulthood Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2023; 131:27004. [PMID: 36749608 PMCID: PMC9904409 DOI: 10.1289/ehp11171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal exposure to environmental chemicals may increase risk of childhood internalizing problems, but few studies have explored the potential for longer-term consequences of such exposures. OBJECTIVE We evaluated associations between prenatal organochlorine and metal levels and early adulthood internalizing symptoms, considering whether sociodemographic/nonchemical stressors modified these associations. METHODS Participants were 209 young adults, born (1993-1998) to mothers residing in or near New Bedford, Massachusetts. As part of the early-adult assessment, self-reported anxiety (7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale) and depressive (8-item Patient Health Questionnaire) symptoms (≥10: elevated symptoms) were ascertained. We previously analyzed levels of cord serum organochlorines [hexachlorobenzene, dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p'-DDE), polychlorinated biphenyls (ΣPCB4: sum of congeners 118, 138, 153, 180)] and whole blood lead shortly after participants' birth, and levels of cord whole blood manganese from archived samples at the time of the adolescent study visit. We used modified Poisson regression models and quantile g-computation, adjusting for sociodemographics, and explored whether biological sex, race/ethnicity (proxy for unmeasured consequences of racism), prenatal social disadvantage (assessed when participants were neonates), and quality of the home environment (assessed during adolescence) modified these associations. RESULTS Participants were (mean±standard deviation) 22.1±1.5 y old, 76% Non-Hispanic White, and 67% female. Prenatal hexachlorobenzene, p,p'-DDE, and lead exposures were moderately associated with increased risk of elevated anxiety symptoms. There were strata-specific associations for prenatal social disadvantage and quality of home environment such that adverse associations of p,p'-DDE and lead and the overall mixture with anxiety and depressive symptoms were largely only evident in those with lower nonchemical stress [e.g., risk ratio and 95% confidence interval (CI) per doubling p,p'-DDE for anxiety: 1.54 (95% CI: 1.20, 1.99) in high-quality home environments and 0.77 (95% CI: 0.51, 1.16) in low-quality home environments]. Associations between prenatal hexachlorobenzene and p,p'-DDE and anxiety symptoms were stronger for underrepresented racial/ethnic group participants vs. Non-Hispanic Whites. We found minimal evidence for sex-specific effects, and no consistent associations with manganese or ΣPCB4. DISCUSSION Prenatal organochlorine pesticides and lead exposure possibly increases risk of internalizing problems, particular anxiety symptoms, in young adults. Varying risk was observed by sociodemographic/nonchemical stressor strata, demonstrating the importance of considering interactions between chemical and other stressors. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP11171.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa B. Rokoff
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Population Health Sciences Program, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Brent A. Coull
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michelle Bosquet Enlow
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Susan A. Korrick
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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10
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Migneron-Foisy V, Muckle G, Jacobson JL, Ayotte P, Jacobson SW, Saint-Amour D. Impact of chronic exposure to legacy environmental contaminants on the corpus callosum microstructure: A diffusion MRI study of Inuit adolescents. Neurotoxicology 2022; 92:200-211. [PMID: 35995272 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2022.08.010] [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: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to environmental contaminants is an important public health concern for the Inuit population of northern Québec, who have been exposed to mercury (Hg), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and lead (Pb). During the last 25 years, the Nunavik Child Development Study (NCDS) birth cohort has reported adverse associations between these exposures and brain function outcomes. In the current study, we aimed to determine whether contaminant exposure is associated with alterations of the corpus callosum (CC), which plays an important role in various cognitive, motor and sensory function processes. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was administered to 89 NCDS participants (mean age ± SD = 18.4 ± 1.2). Diffusion-weighted imaging was assessed to characterize the microstructure of the CC white matter in 7 structurally and functionally distinct regions of interest (ROIs) using a tractography-based segmentation approach. The following metrics were computed: fiber tract density, fractional anisotropy (FA), axial diffusivity (AD) and radial diffusivity (RD). Multiple linear regression models adjusted for sex, age, current alcohol/drug use and fish nutrients (omega-3 fatty acids and selenium) were conducted to assess the association between diffusion-weighted imaging metrics and Hg, PCB 153 and Pb concentrations obtained at birth in the cord blood and postnatally (mean values from blood samples at 11 and 18 years of age). Exposures were not associated with fiber tract density. Nor were significant associations found with cord and postnatal blood Pb concentrations for FA. However, pre- and postnatal Hg and PCB concentrations were significantly associated with higher FA of several regions of the CC, namely anterior midbody, posterior midbody, isthmus, and splenium, with the most pronounced effects observed in the splenium. FA results were mainly associated with lower RD. This study shows that exposure to Hg and PCB 153 alters the posterior microstructure of the CC, providing neuroimaging evidence of how developmental exposure to environmental chemicals can impair brain function and behavior in late adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Migneron-Foisy
- Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Sainte-Justine University Hospital Research Center, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Gina Muckle
- School of Psychology, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada; Centre de Recherche du CHUQ de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Joseph L Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Pierre Ayotte
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Sandra W Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Dave Saint-Amour
- Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Sainte-Justine University Hospital Research Center, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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11
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Rokoff LB, Shoaff JR, Coull BA, Enlow MB, Bellinger DC, Korrick SA. Prenatal exposure to a mixture of organochlorines and metals and internalizing symptoms in childhood and adolescence. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 208:112701. [PMID: 35016863 PMCID: PMC8917058 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.112701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although prenatal chemical exposures influence neurobehavior, joint exposures are not well explored as risk factors for internalizing disorders through adolescence. OBJECTIVE To evaluate associations of prenatal organochlorine and metal exposures, considered individually and as a mixture, with mid-childhood and adolescent internalizing symptoms. METHODS Participants were 468 children from a prospective cohort recruited at birth (1993-1998) in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Organochlorines (hexachlorobenzene, p,p'-dichlorodiphenyl dichloroethylene, polychlorinated biphenyls) and metals (lead, manganese) were analyzed in cord blood. Internalizing symptoms (anxiety, depressive, somatic) were assessed via multiple informants on the Conners' Rating Scale (CRS) at 8-years and Behavior Assessment System for Children, Second Edition (BASC-2) at 15-years; higher T-scores indicate greater symptoms. Overall and sex-specific covariate-adjusted associations were evaluated using Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) and five-chemical linear regression models. RESULTS The cohort was socioeconomically diverse (35% household income <$20,000; 55% maternal ≤ high school education at birth). Most chemical concentrations were consistent with background levels [e.g., median (range) cord blood lead: 1.1 (0-9.4) μg/dL]. BKMR suggested linear associations and no interactions between chemicals. The overall mixture was positively associated with Conners' Parent Rating Scale (CPRS) and BASC-2 Self Report of Personality (SRP) anxiety and depressive symptoms, and negatively with somatic symptoms. Prenatal lead was positively associated with adolescent anxiety symptoms [1.56 (95% CI: 0.50, 2.61) BASC-2 SRP Anxiety score increase per doubling lead]. For CRPS and BASC-2 SRP, a doubling of cord blood manganese was positively associated with internalizing symptoms for girls [e.g., 3.26 (95% CI: 0.27, 6.25) BASC-2 SRP Depression score increase], but not boys. Organochlorine exposures were not adversely associated with internalizing symptoms. DISCUSSION Low-level prenatal lead exposure was positively associated with adolescent anxiety symptoms, and prenatal manganese exposure was positively associated with internalizing symptoms for girls from mid-childhood through adolescence. In utero neurotoxicant metal exposures may contribute to the emergence of anxiety and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa B Rokoff
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Population Health Sciences Program, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Jessica R Shoaff
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brent A Coull
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michelle Bosquet Enlow
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David C Bellinger
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Susan A Korrick
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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12
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Cardenas-Iniguez C, Burnor E, Herting MM. Neurotoxicants, the developing brain, and mental health. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY GLOBAL OPEN SCIENCE 2022; 2:223-232. [PMID: 35911498 PMCID: PMC9337627 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsgos.2022.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
While life in urban environments may confer a number of benefits, it may also result in a variety of exposures, with toxic consequences for neurodevelopment and neuropsychological health. Neurotoxicants are any of a large number of chemicals or substances that interfere with normal function and/or compromise adaptation in the central and/or peripheral nervous system. Evidence suggests that neurotoxicant effects have a greater effect when occurring in utero and during early childhood. Recent findings exploring neural-level mechanisms provide a crucial opportunity to explore the ways in which environmental conditions may get “under the skin” to impact a number of psychological behaviors and cognitive processes, ultimately allowing for greater synergy between macro- and microlevel efforts to improve mental health in the presence of neurotoxicant exposures. In this review, we provide an overview of 3 types of neurotoxicants related to the built environment and relevant to brain development during childhood and adolescence: lead exposure, outdoor particulate matter pollution, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals. We also discuss mechanisms through which these neurotoxicants affect central nervous system function, including recent evidence from neuroimaging literature. Furthermore, we discuss neurotoxicants and mental health during development in the context of social determinants and how differences in the spatial distribution of neurotoxicant exposures result in health disparities that disproportionately affect low-income and minority populations. Multifaceted approaches incorporating social systems and their effect on neurotoxicant exposures and downstream mental health will be key to reduce societal costs and improve quality of life for children, adolescents, and adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Cardenas-Iniguez
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
- Address correspondence to Carlos Cardenas-Iniguez, Ph.D.
| | - Elisabeth Burnor
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Megan M. Herting
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
- Megan M. Herting, Ph.D.
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13
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Bastien K, Muckle G, Ayotte P, Courtemanche Y, Dodge NC, Jacobson JL, Jacobson SW, Saint-Amour D. Associations between developmental exposure to environmental contaminants and spatial navigation in late adolescence. New Dir Child Adolesc Dev 2022; 2022:11-35. [PMID: 36044011 PMCID: PMC9590243 DOI: 10.1002/cad.20478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Inuit communities in Northern Quebec (Canada) are exposed to environmental contaminants, particularly to mercury, lead and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Previous studies reported adverse associations between these neurotoxicants and memory performance. Here we aimed to determine the associations of pre- and postnatal exposures to mercury, lead and PCB-153 on spatial navigation memory in 212 Inuit adolescents (mean age = 18.5 years) using a computer task which requires learning the location of a hidden platform based on allocentric spatial representation. Contaminant concentrations were measured in cord blood at birth and blood samples at 11 years of age and at time of testing. Multivariate regression models showed that adolescent mercury and prenatal PCB-153 exposures were associated with poorer spatial learning, whereas current exposure to PCB-153 was associated with altered spatial memory retrieval at the probe test trial. These findings suggest that contaminants might be linked to different aspects of spatial navigation processing at different stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Bastien
- Département de Psychologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Gina Muckle
- École de Psychologie, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Pierre Ayotte
- Département de Médecine Sociale et Préventive, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Yohann Courtemanche
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Neil C Dodge
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Joseph L Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Sandra W Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Dave Saint-Amour
- Département de Psychologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche, Centre hospitalier universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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14
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Maurice C, Dalvai M, Lambrot R, Deschênes A, Scott-Boyer MP, McGraw S, Chan D, Côté N, Ziv-Gal A, Flaws JA, Droit A, Trasler J, Kimmins S, Bailey JL. Early-Life Exposure to Environmental Contaminants Perturbs the Sperm Epigenome and Induces Negative Pregnancy Outcomes for Three Generations via the Paternal Lineage. EPIGENOMES 2021; 5:epigenomes5020010. [PMID: 34968297 PMCID: PMC8594730 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes5020010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the grasshopper effect, the Arctic food chain in Canada is contaminated with persistent organic pollutants (POPs) of industrial origin, including polychlorinated biphenyls and organochlorine pesticides. Exposure to POPs may be a contributor to the greater incidence of poor fetal growth, placental abnormalities, stillbirths, congenital defects and shortened lifespan in the Inuit population compared to non-Aboriginal Canadians. Although maternal exposure to POPs is well established to harm pregnancy outcomes, paternal transmission of the effects of POPs is a possibility that has not been well investigated. We used a rat model to test the hypothesis that exposure to POPs during gestation and suckling leads to developmental defects that are transmitted to subsequent generations via the male lineage. Indeed, developmental exposure to an environmentally relevant Arctic POPs mixture impaired sperm quality and pregnancy outcomes across two subsequent, unexposed generations and altered sperm DNA methylation, some of which are also observed for two additional generations. Genes corresponding to the altered sperm methylome correspond to health problems encountered in the Inuit population. These findings demonstrate that the paternal methylome is sensitive to the environment and that some perturbations persist for at least two subsequent generations. In conclusion, although many factors influence health, paternal exposure to contaminants plays a heretofore-underappreciated role with sperm DNA methylation contributing to the molecular underpinnings involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clotilde Maurice
- Research Centre on Reproduction and Intergenerational Health, Department of Animal Sciences, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; (C.M.); (M.D.)
| | - Mathieu Dalvai
- Research Centre on Reproduction and Intergenerational Health, Department of Animal Sciences, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; (C.M.); (M.D.)
| | - Romain Lambrot
- Department of Animal Sciences, McGill University, Ste. Anne de Bellevue, Quebec, QC H9X 3V9, Canada; (R.L.); (S.K.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Astrid Deschênes
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Research Center of CHU of Quebec City, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G, Canada; (A.D.); (M.-P.S.-B.); (A.D.)
| | - Marie-Pier Scott-Boyer
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Research Center of CHU of Quebec City, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G, Canada; (A.D.); (M.-P.S.-B.); (A.D.)
| | - Serge McGraw
- Research Center of CHU Sainte-Justine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Université de Montral, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada;
| | - Donovan Chan
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H3Z 2Z3, Canada; (D.C.); (J.T.)
- Departments of Pediatrics, Human Genetics and Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3Z 2Z3, Canada
| | - Nancy Côté
- Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G5, Canada;
| | - Ayelet Ziv-Gal
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL 61802, USA; (A.Z.-G.); (J.A.F.)
| | - Jodi A. Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL 61802, USA; (A.Z.-G.); (J.A.F.)
| | - Arnaud Droit
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Research Center of CHU of Quebec City, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 4G, Canada; (A.D.); (M.-P.S.-B.); (A.D.)
| | - Jacquetta Trasler
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H3Z 2Z3, Canada; (D.C.); (J.T.)
- Departments of Pediatrics, Human Genetics and Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3Z 2Z3, Canada
| | - Sarah Kimmins
- Department of Animal Sciences, McGill University, Ste. Anne de Bellevue, Quebec, QC H9X 3V9, Canada; (R.L.); (S.K.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Janice L. Bailey
- Research Centre on Reproduction and Intergenerational Health, Department of Animal Sciences, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; (C.M.); (M.D.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-418-643-3230
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Lamoureux-Tremblay V, Chauret M, Muckle G, Maheu F, Suffren S, Jacobson SW, Jacobson JL, Ayotte P, Lepore F, Saint-Amour D. Altered functional activations of prefrontal brain areas during emotional processing of fear in Inuit adolescents exposed to environmental contaminants. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2021; 85:106973. [PMID: 33741477 PMCID: PMC8137647 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2021.106973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to mercury, lead and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) have been associated with emotional dysregulation, but their neuronal correlates have yet to be examined. Inuit from Nunavik (Northern Quebec, Canada) face internalizing problems and are among the most exposed individuals to these environmental contaminants in the world. The aim of this study was to examine the link between pre- and postnatal exposure to these contaminants and brain fear-circuitry in Inuit adolescents. Facial expression stimuli were presented to participants (mean age = 18.3 years) in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner. Fear conditioning and extinction tasks included neutral faces as the conditioned threat and safety cues and a fearful face paired with a shrieking scream as the unconditioned stimulus. Functional MRI data were gathered at the conditioning phase (n = 71) and at the extinction phase (n = 62). Mercury, lead and PCB 153 concentrations were measured in blood samples at birth (cord blood) and at the time of the adolescent testing to estimate pre- and postnatal exposure, respectively. For each time point, exposures were categorized in tertiles (low, moderate and high exposed groups). Mixed analyses of variance were conducted for each contaminant of interest controlling for sex, age, socioeconomic status, drug/alcohol use, food insecurity and contaminant co-exposure. Results revealed greater differential activation during the conditioning phase in the right orbitofrontal cortex in participants with moderate and high concentrations of cord blood PCB 153 compared to those in the low exposure group. During the extinction phase, the high prenatal mercury exposed group showed a lower differential activation in the right and left anterior cingulate cortex compared to those in the low-exposed group; whereas there was a higher differential activation in right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in the high postnatal lead exposed group compared to the moderate- and low-exposed groups. Our study is the first to show alterations in the prefrontal brain areas in fear conditioning and extinction tasks in relation to environmental contaminant exposures. The observed brain correlates may advance our understanding of the emotional problems associated with environmental chemical toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mélissa Chauret
- Département de Psychologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Gina Muckle
- Centre de Recherche du CHUQ de Québec-Université Laval, École de Psychologie, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Françoise Maheu
- Research Centre of CHU Ste-Justine, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Sabrina Suffren
- Research Centre of CHU Ste-Justine, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Sandra W Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, United States
| | - Joseph L Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, United States
| | - Pierre Ayotte
- Département de Médecine Sociale et Préventive, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Franco Lepore
- Département de Psychologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Dave Saint-Amour
- Département de Psychologie, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Research Centre of CHU Ste-Justine, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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16
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Lukina AO, Fisher M, Khoury C, Than J, Guay M, Paradis JF, Arbuckle TE, Legrand M. Temporal variation of total mercury levels in the hair of pregnant women from the Maternal-Infant Research on Environmental Chemicals (MIREC) study. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 264:128402. [PMID: 33022505 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128402] [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: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to total mercury (T-Hg) comes from both natural and anthropogenic sources. T-Hg can cross the blood-brain and placental barriers, and may be associated with future neurological and physiological dysfunctions. Scalp hair is an optimal and non-invasive indicator of chronic T-Hg exposure. As part of the Maternal-Infant Research on Environmental Chemicals (MIREC) Study, hair samples from 350 women were collected within weeks after giving birth, to determine temporal variations in T-Hg levels from preconception to delivery, and to compare these levels to corresponding levels measured in other matrices (maternal and umbilical cord blood, and infant's meconium). A maximum of 12 one-cm hair segments were cut starting at the scalp; segments closer to the scalp reflected recent exposure (within the last month). For proper comparison, the hair segments were matched with the collection dates for other matrices. GM hair T-Hg levels greatly decreased during pregnancy, from 0.26 μg g-1 (preconception or full-length hair) to 0.18 μg g-1 (at delivery or segments closer to the scalp). A similar decreasing trend was found for T-Hg in maternal blood: 1st trimester (0.60 μg L-1) to 3rd trimester (0.47 μg L-1). The median hair-to-blood ratios of T-Hg levels varied from 364 (1st trimester), to 408 (3rd trimester), to 229 (cord blood). Very low T-Hg levels were detected in meconium. Mercury levels in blood and hair correlated with consumption of large predatory fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna O Lukina
- Environmental Health Science & Research Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | - Mandy Fisher
- Environmental Health Science & Research Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Cheryl Khoury
- Environmental Health Science & Research Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | - John Than
- Environmental Health Science & Research Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Mireille Guay
- Environmental Health Science & Research Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Jean-François Paradis
- Health Products and Food Laboratories, Regulatory Operations and Regions Branch, Health Canada, Longueuil, QC, Canada
| | - Tye E Arbuckle
- Environmental Health Science & Research Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Melissa Legrand
- Family Physician, GMF Wakefield, 777 Riverside Dr., Wakefield, QC, Canada
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17
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Lozano M, Murcia M, Soler-Blasco R, González L, Iriarte G, Rebagliato M, Lopez-Espinosa MJ, Esplugues A, Ballester F, Llop S. Exposure to mercury among 9-year-old children and neurobehavioural function. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 146:106173. [PMID: 33096466 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.106173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is an environmental neurotoxicant whose main route of exposure in humans is the consumption of seafood. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between Hg exposure at 9 years old and behaviour assessed at 9 and 11 years old. Study subjects were mother-child pairs participating in the INMA (Environment and Childhood) Project in Valencia (Spain). Total Hg (THg) was measured in hair samples from the children at 9 years old. Behaviour and emotions were assessed at 9 (n = 472) years and 11 (n = 385) years of age using the Child Behaviour Checklist test (CBCL) and the Conners Parents Rating Scale-Revised: Short Form (CPRS-R:S). Furthermore, the attention function was assessed by the Attention Network Test at 11 years old. Socio-demographic, lifestyle and dietary information was collected through questionnaires during pregnancy and childhood. Polymorphism in BDNF, APOE and GSTP1 were genotyped in cord blood DNA. Multivariable negative binomial regression models were built in order to study the association between THg concentrations and the scores obtained by the children at 9 and 11 years old. Effect modification by sex and genetic polymorphisms was assessed. The association between Hg levels and CBCL scores was positive (worse neurobehavioural development) for the CBCL internalizing and total problem scales (Incidence Rate Ratio [95% confidence interval] = 1.07 [1.01, 1.13] and 1.05 [0.99, 1.11], respectively). The association between Hg and the externalizing and total problems CBCL scales and the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) index of the CPRS-R:S was different according to sex, with boys obtaining worse scores with increasing Hg, compared to girls. Statistically significant interactions were also observed for genetic polymorphisms affecting the association between early exposure to Hg and both CBCL and CPRS-R:S scores. In conclusion, postnatal Hg exposure is associated with poorer neurobehavioural development in 9- and 11-year-old children. Sex and the presence of certain genetic polymorphisms modified this association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Lozano
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Food Sciences, Toxicology and Forensic Medicine Department, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - Mario Murcia
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Servicio de Análisis de Sistemas de Información Sanitaria, Conselleria de Sanitat, Generalitat Valenciana, Valencia, Spain
| | - Raquel Soler-Blasco
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - Llúcia González
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Gorka Iriarte
- Laboratorio de Salud Pública, Alava, Vitoria Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Marisa Rebagliato
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Department of Medicine, Universitat Jaume I, Castelló, Spain
| | - Maria-Jose Lopez-Espinosa
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Department of Nursing School, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana Esplugues
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Department of Nursing School, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Ferran Ballester
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Department of Nursing School, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - Sabrina Llop
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
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Abstract
Purpose of Review Flame retardant (FR) compounds can adversely impact neurodevelopment. This updated literature review summarizes epidemiological studies of FRs and neurotoxicity published since 2015, covering historical (polybrominated biphenyls [PBBs], polychlorinated biphenyls [PCBs]), contemporary (polybrominated diphenyl ethers [PBDEs], hexabromocyclododecane [HBCD], and tetrabromobisphenol A [TBBPA]), and current-use organophosphate FRs (OPFRs) and brominated FRs (2-ethylhexyl 2,3,4,5-tetrabromobezoate [EH-TBB] TBB), bis(2-ethylhexyl) tetrabromophthalate [BEH-TEBP]), focusing on prenatal and postnatal periods of exposure. Recent Findings Continuing studies on PCBs still reveal adverse associations on child cognition and behavior. Recent studies indicate PBDEs are neurotoxic, particularly for gestational exposures with decreased cognition and increased externalizing behaviors. Findings were suggestive for PBDEs and other behavioral domains and neuroimaging. OPFR studies provide suggestive evidence of reduced cognition and more behavioral problems. Summary Despite a lack of studies of PBBs, TBBPA, EH-TBB, and BEH-TEBP, and only two studies of HBCD, recent literature of PCBs, PBDEs, and OPFRs are suggestive of developmental neurotoxicity, calling for more studies of OPFRs.
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Goodman M, Li J, Flanders WD, Mahood D, Anthony LG, Zhang Q, LaKind JS. Epidemiology of PCBs and neurodevelopment: Systematic assessment of multiplicity and completeness of reporting. GLOBAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gloepi.2020.100040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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20
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Hernandez Scudder ME, Kunkel MN, Gore AC. Exposure to prenatal PCBs shifts the timing of neurogenesis in the hypothalamus of developing rats. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART 2020; 333:550-560. [PMID: 32798281 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The developing brain is highly sensitive to the hormonal milieu, with gonadal steroid hormones involved in neurogenesis, neural survival, and brain organization. Limited available evidence suggests that endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) may perturb these developmental processes. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that prenatal exposure to a mixture of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), Aroclor 1221, would disrupt the normal timing of neurogenesis in two hypothalamic regions: the ventromedial nucleus (VMN) and the preoptic area (POA). These regions were selected because of their important roles in the control of sociosexual behaviors that are perturbed in adulthood by prenatal EDC exposure. Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to PCBs from Embryonic Day 8 (E8) to E18, encompassing the period of neurogenesis of all hypothalamic neurons. To determine the birth dates of neurons, bromo-2-deoxy-5-uridine (BrdU) was administered to dams on E12, E14, or E16. On the day after birth, male and female pups were perfused, brains immunolabeled for BrdU, and numbers of cells counted. In the VMN, exposure to PCBs significantly advanced the timing of neurogenesis compared to vehicle-treated pups, without changing the total number of BrdU+ cells. In the POA, PCBs did not change the timing of neurogenesis nor the total number of cells born. This is the first study to show that PCBs can shift the timing of neurogenesis in the hypothalamus, specifically in the VMN but not the POA. This result has implications for functions controlled by the VMN, especially sociosexual behaviors, as well as for sexual selection more generally.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andrea C Gore
- Institute for Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas.,Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
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21
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Lamoureux-Tremblay V, Muckle G, Maheu F, Jacobson SW, Jacobson JL, Ayotte P, Bélanger RE, Saint-Amour D. Risk factors associated with developing anxiety in Inuit adolescents from Nunavik. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2020; 81:106903. [PMID: 32512128 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2020.106903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the relation between anxiety among the at-risk population of Inuit adolescents and diverse developmental risk factors including exposure to environmental chemicals, a subject of concern in Nunavik. Anxiety was assessed in 89 Inuit participants (mean age = 18.4 years; range = 16.2-21.9) with the Screen for Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders (SCARED) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Potential risk factors for anxiety were documented at birth, 11 years of age and 18 years of age, including blood levels of chemicals (mercury, lead, PCBs) and nutrients, as well as age, sex, estimated IQ, drug and alcohol use, bullying, exposure to domestic violence, food insecurity, crowding and socio-economic status. Results showed that participants scored high on both measures of anxiety, particularly the SCARED, for which the mean score was above the clinical threshold. Multiple regression results show that significant risk predictors obtained from the SCARED scores were female sex (β = 0.32), higher current blood mercury concentration (β = 0.26), food insecurity (β = 0.26) and bullying experiences in the last year (β = 0.21). The significant predictors for the STAI trait anxiety were food insecurity (β = 0.25) and lower estimated IQ (β = -0.31), whereas food insecurity (β = 0.21), lower blood levels of vitamin E (β = -0.25) and higher cord blood mercury concentrations (β = 0.25) were found for STAI situational anxiety. Further regression analyses suggested that the adolescent-related variables were the most important risk factors. Our findings show that Inuit adolescents are at risk for anxiety via multiple contributing factors, particularly current exposure to mercury, food insecurity and female sex.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gina Muckle
- École de Psychologie, Université Laval, 2325, rue des Bibliothèques, Québec, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Françoise Maheu
- Université de Montréal, 90 Avenue Vincent-D'Indy, Outremont, Montréal, Québec H2V 2S9, Canada
| | - Sandra W Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, 3901 Chrysler Drive, Detroit 48201, United States
| | - Joseph L Jacobson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, 3901 Chrysler Drive, Detroit 48201, United States
| | - Pierre Ayotte
- Département de Médecine Sociale et Préventive, Faculté de Médecine, 1050, Avenue de la Médecine, Pavillon Ferdinand-Vandry, Université Laval, Québec, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Richard E Bélanger
- Département de Pédiatrie, Université Laval, Centre mère-enfant Soleil du CHU de Québec, 2705, Boulevard Laurier, Québec, Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Dave Saint-Amour
- Université du Québec à Montréal, 320 Sainte-Catherine Est, Pavillon J.A. De Sève, Montréal, Québec H2X 1L7, Canada..
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22
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Astolfi ML, Protano C, Marconi E, Massimi L, Piamonti D, Brunori M, Vitali M, Canepari S. Biomonitoring of Mercury in Hair among a Group of Eritreans (Africa). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17061911. [PMID: 32183479 PMCID: PMC7143335 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17061911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Small-scale or artisanal mining, using gold-mercury amalgamation to extract gold from ore, is a significant source of exposure for the workers and nearby populations. Few studies on hair mercury (Hg) have been conducted in Africa despite the fact that Africa has several gold deposits. No studies have been conducted in Eritrea that is one of the emerging gold producing countries in Africa. The aim of the study was to assess the Hg concentration in hair samples (n = 120) of a population living in Asmara, capital of Eritrea, and to evaluate the influence of some factors on the Hg levels in hair. Information on age, height, weight, occupation, smoking and fish consumption of participants were collected via questionnaire. Hair Hg concentration was significantly higher among women compared to men (p < 0.001) and among women preparing spicy products in Medeber market compared to those who did other jobs (p = 0.010). These results highlight the need for routine biomonitoring surveys and for health promotion campaigns devoted to local decision makers and workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Luisa Astolfi
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy; (L.M.); (S.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0649913384
| | - Carmela Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (E.M.); (M.V.)
| | - Elisabetta Marconi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (E.M.); (M.V.)
| | - Lorenzo Massimi
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy; (L.M.); (S.C.)
| | - Daniel Piamonti
- Department of Cardiovascular, Respiratory, Nephrology, Anaesthesiology and Geriatric Science, Sapienza University, Viale del Policlinico 155, I-00161 Rome, Italy; (D.P.); (M.B.)
| | - Marco Brunori
- Department of Cardiovascular, Respiratory, Nephrology, Anaesthesiology and Geriatric Science, Sapienza University, Viale del Policlinico 155, I-00161 Rome, Italy; (D.P.); (M.B.)
| | - Matteo Vitali
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (E.M.); (M.V.)
| | - Silvia Canepari
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy; (L.M.); (S.C.)
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23
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Llop S, Murcia M, Amorós R, Julvez J, Santa-Marina L, Soler-Blasco R, Rebagliato M, Iñiguez C, Aguinagalde X, Iriarte G, Lopez-Espinosa MJ, Andiarena A, Gonzalez L, Vioque J, Sunyer J, Ballester F. Postnatal exposure to mercury and neuropsychological development among preschooler children. Eur J Epidemiol 2020; 35:259-271. [DOI: 10.1007/s10654-020-00620-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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24
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Gagnon-Chauvin A, Bastien K, Saint-Amour D. Environmental toxic agents: The impact of heavy metals and organochlorides on brain development. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2020; 173:423-442. [PMID: 32958188 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-64150-2.00030-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to environmental toxicants can have deleterious effects on the development of physical, cognitive, and mental health. Extensive laboratory and clinical studies have demonstrated how the developing brain is uniquely sensitive to toxic agents. This chapter focuses on the main neurologic impairments linked to prenatal and postnatal exposure to lead, methylmercury, and polychlorinated biphenyls, three legacy environmental contaminants whose neurotoxic effects have been extensively studied with respect to cognitive and behavioral development. The main cognitive, emotion regulation, sensory, and motor impairments in association with these contaminants are briefly reviewed, including the underlying neural mechanisms such as neuropathologic damages, brain neurotransmission, and endocrine system alterations. The use of neuroimaging as a novel tool to better understand how the brain is affected by exposure to environmental contaminants is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avril Gagnon-Chauvin
- Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; Research Centre, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Kevin Bastien
- Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; Research Centre, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Dave Saint-Amour
- Department of Psychology, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; Research Centre, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.
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25
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Turgeon O'Brien H, Gagné D, Lauzière J, Blanchet R, Vézina C, Ayotte P. Temporal trends of legacy and emerging persistent organic pollutants in inuit preschoolers from Northern Quebec (Canada). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2019; 29:643-656. [PMID: 30636437 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2018.1560396] [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: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we report the temporal trends of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in 181 preschool Inuit children from Nunavik and the influence of confounding factors on blood contaminant levels. From 2006 to 2010, no significant trends were detected in Σpolychlorinated biphenyls (ΣPCBs), Σorganochlorine pesticides (ΣOPs), Σtoxaphene, and Σper- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (ΣPFASs). On the contrary, significant downward trends ranging from 9.3% to 14.3% per year were found for polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). Breastfeeding was significantly associated with increased levels of POPs. Age was positively and significantly related to ΣPCBs, ΣOPs and Σtoxaphene. Compared with girls, boys had significantly higher concentrations of ΣPBDEs, but lower concentrations of ΣPFASs. Weight-for-height or body mass index z-scores were negatively and significantly related to ΣPCBs and ΣOPs. Passive smoking was positively and significantly associated with ΣOPs and Σtoxaphene. In conclusion, continued efforts to reduce contaminant exposure are needed to protect children's health and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huguette Turgeon O'Brien
- School of Nutrition, Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, Laval University , Québec City , QC , Canada
| | | | - Julie Lauzière
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, University of Sherbrooke , Longueuil , QC , Canada
| | - Rosanne Blanchet
- Department of Agricultural, Food & Nutritional Sciences, University of Alberta , Edmonton , Alberta , Canada
| | - Carole Vézina
- Inuulitsivik Health and Social Services Centre , Puvirnituq , QC , Canada
| | - Pierre Ayotte
- Department of social and preventive medicine, Laval University and INSPQ , Québec City , QC , Canada
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26
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Dórea JG. Environmental exposure to low-level lead (Pb) co-occurring with other neurotoxicants in early life and neurodevelopment of children. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 177:108641. [PMID: 31421445 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.108641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) is a worldwide environmental contaminant that even at low levels influences brain development and affects neurobehavior later in life; nevertheless it is only a small fraction of the neurotoxicant (NT) exposome. Exposure to environmental Pb concurrent with other NT substances is often the norm, but their joint effects are challenging to study during early life. The aim of this review is to integrate studies of Pb-containing NT mixtures during the early life and neurodevelopment outcomes of children. The Pb-containing NT mixtures that have been most studied involve other metals (Mn, Al, Hg, Cd), metalloids (As), halogen (F), and organo-halogen pollutants. Co-occurring Pb-associated exposures during pregnancy and lactation depend on the environmental sources and the metabolism and half-life of the specific NT contaminant; but offspring neurobehavioral outcomes are also influenced by social stressors. Nevertheless, Pb-associated effects from prenatal exposure portend a continued burden on measurable neurodevelopment; they thus favor increased neurological health issues, decrements in neurobehavioral tests and reductions in the quality of life. Neurobehavioral test outcomes measured in the first 1000 days showed Pb-associated negative outcomes were frequently noticed in infants (<6 months). In older (preschool and school) children studies showed more variations in NT mixtures, children's age, and sensitivity and/or specificity of neurobehavioral tests; these variations and choice of statistical model (individual NT stressor or collective effect of mixture) may explain inconsistencies. Multiple exposures to NT mixtures in children diagnosed with 'autism spectrum disorders' (ASD) and 'attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders' (ADHD), strongly suggest a Pb-associated effect. Mixture potency (number or associated NT components and respective concentrations) and time (duration and developmental stage) of exposure often showed a measurable impact on neurodevelopment; however, net effects, reversibility and/or predictability of delays are insufficiently studied and need urgent attention. Nevertheless, neurodevelopment delays can be prevented and/or attenuated if public health policies are implemented to protect the unborn and the young child.
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Affiliation(s)
- José G Dórea
- Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, 70919-970, DF, Brazil.
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27
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Pessah IN, Lein PJ, Seegal RF, Sagiv SK. Neurotoxicity of polychlorinated biphenyls and related organohalogens. Acta Neuropathol 2019; 138:363-387. [PMID: 30976975 PMCID: PMC6708608 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-019-01978-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Halogenated organic compounds are pervasive in natural and built environments. Despite restrictions on the production of many of these compounds in most parts of the world through the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), many "legacy" compounds, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), are routinely detected in human tissues where they continue to pose significant health risks to highly exposed and susceptible populations. A major concern is developmental neurotoxicity, although impacts on neurodegenerative outcomes have also been noted. Here, we review human studies of prenatal and adult exposures to PCBs and describe the state of knowledge regarding outcomes across domains related to cognition (e.g., IQ, language, memory, learning), attention, behavioral regulation and executive function, and social behavior, including traits related to attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). We also review current understanding of molecular mechanisms underpinning these associations, with a focus on dopaminergic neurotransmission, thyroid hormone disruption, calcium dyshomeostasis, and oxidative stress. Finally, we briefly consider contemporary sources of organohalogens that may pose human health risks via mechanisms of neurotoxicity common to those ascribed to PCBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac N Pessah
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, 1089 VM3B, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
| | - Pamela J Lein
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, 1089 VM3B, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Richard F Seegal
- Professor Emeritus, School of Public Health, University at Albany, Rensselaer, NY, USA
| | - Sharon K Sagiv
- Center for Environmental Research and Children's Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
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28
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Belleau P, Deschênes A, Scott-Boyer MP, Lambrot R, Dalvai M, Kimmins S, Bailey J, Droit A. Inferring and modeling inheritance of differentially methylated changes across multiple generations. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 46:e85. [PMID: 29750268 PMCID: PMC6101575 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gky362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
High-throughput methylation sequencing enables genome-wide detection of differentially methylated sites (DMS) or regions (DMR). Increasing evidence suggests that treatment-induced DMS can be transmitted across generations, but the analysis of induced methylation changes across multiple generations is complicated by the lack of sound statistical methods to evaluate significance levels. Due to software design, DMS detection was usually made on each generation separately, thus disregarding stochastic effects expected when a large number of DMS is detected in each generation. Here, we present a novel method based on Monte Carlo sampling, methylInheritance, to evaluate that the number of conserved DMS between several generations is associated to an effect inherited from a treatment and not randomness. Moreover, we developed an inheritance simulation package, methInheritSim, to demonstrate the performance of the methylInheritance method and to evaluate the power of different experimental designs. Finally, we applied methylInheritance to a DNA methylation dataset obtained from early-life persistent organic pollutants (POPs) exposed Sprague-Dawley female rats and their descendants through a paternal transmission. The results show that metylInheritance can efficiently identify treatment-induced inherited methylation changes. Specifically, we identified two intergenerationally conserved DMS at transcription start site (TSS); one of those persisted transgenerationally. Three transgenerationally conserved DMR were found at intra or integenic regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Belleau
- Département de Médecine Moléculaire - Université Laval, Faculté de médecine, Pavillon Ferdinand-Vandry, 1050 avenue de la Médecine, bureau 4633, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Astrid Deschênes
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec - Université Laval, 2705 boulevard Laurier, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Marie-Pier Scott-Boyer
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec - Université Laval, 2705 boulevard Laurier, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Romain Lambrot
- Department of Animal Sciences, McGill University, Ste. Anne de Bellevue, Quebec, H9 × 3V9 Canada and Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Mathieu Dalvai
- Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle - Université Laval, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Pavillon Paul-Comtois, 2425 rue de l'Agriculture, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Sarah Kimmins
- Department of Animal Sciences, McGill University, Ste. Anne de Bellevue, Quebec, H9 × 3V9 Canada and Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Janice Bailey
- Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle - Université Laval, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Pavillon Paul-Comtois, 2425 rue de l'Agriculture, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Arnaud Droit
- Département de Médecine Moléculaire - Université Laval, Faculté de médecine, Pavillon Ferdinand-Vandry, 1050 avenue de la Médecine, bureau 4633, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada.,Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec - Université Laval, 2705 boulevard Laurier, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada
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Perez-Fernandez C, Flores P, Sánchez-Santed F. A Systematic Review on the Influences of Neurotoxicological Xenobiotic Compounds on Inhibitory Control. Front Behav Neurosci 2019; 13:139. [PMID: 31333425 PMCID: PMC6620897 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2019.00139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Impulsive and compulsive traits represent a variety of maladaptive behaviors defined by the difficulties to stop an improper response and the control of a repeated behavioral pattern without sensitivity to changing contingencies, respectively. Otherwise, human beings are continuously exposed to plenty neurotoxicological agents which have been systematically linked to attentional, learning, and memory dysfunctions, both preclinical and clinical studies. Interestingly, the link between both impulsive and compulsive behaviors and the exposure to the most important xenobiotic compounds have been extensively developed; although the information has been rarely summarized. For this, the present systematic review schedule and analyze in depth the most important works relating different subtypes of the above-mentioned behaviors with 4 of the most important xenobiotic compounds: Lead (Pb), Methylmercury (MeHg), Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), and Organophosphates (OP) in both preclinical and clinical models. Methods: Systematic search strategy on PubMed databases was developed, and the most important information was structured both in text and in separate tables based on rigorous methodological quality assessment. Results: For Lead, Methylmercury, Polychlorinated biphenyls and organophosphates, a total of 44 (31 preclinical), 34 (21), 38 (23), and 30 (17) studies were accepted for systematic synthesis, respectively. All the compounds showed an important empirical support on their role in the modulation of impulsive and, in lesser degree, compulsive traits, stronger and more solid in animal models with inconclusive results in humans in some cases (i.e., MeHg). However, preclinical and clinical studies have systematically focused on different subtypes of the above-mentioned behaviors, as well as impulsive choice or habit conformations have been rarely studied. Discussion: The strong empirical support in preclinical studies contrasts with the lack of connection between preclinical and clinical models, as well as the different methodologies used. Further research should be focused on dissipate these differences as well as deeply study impulsive choice, decision making, risk taking, and cognitive flexibility, both in experimental animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pilar Flores
- Department of Psychology and Health Research Center, University of Almería, Almería, Spain
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Perinatal Exposure to Environmental Endocrine Disruptors in the Emergence of Neurodevelopmental Psychiatric Diseases: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16081318. [PMID: 31013727 PMCID: PMC6517937 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16081318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background: Exposure to endocrine disruptors is on the rise, with new compounds regularly incriminated. In animals and humans, this exposure during critical developmental windows has been associated with various developmental abnormalities, including the emergence of psychiatric disorders. We aimed to review the association between perinatal endocrine disruptor exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders in humans, focusing on cognitive and psychiatric disorders. Methods: We performed a systematic review with key words referring to the fields of neurodevelopment and endocrine disruptors. We reviewed 896 titles, choosing studies on the basis of titles and abstracts. We searched through the methodology sections to find perinatal exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders, following the categories indicated in the Diagnostic and Statistic Manual of Mental Disorders (5th edition). References in some studies brought us to a total of 47 studies included here. Results: Convergent studies report an association between exposure to endocrine disruptors and autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, global developmental delay, intellectual disability, communication disorders and unspecified neurodevelopmental disorders. Conclusion: Sufficient data exist to report that exposure to some endocrine disruptors is a risk factor for the emergence of neurodevelopmental disorders. Studying endocrine disruptor exposure in humans is still associated with some limits that are difficult to overcome.
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Davis AN, Carlo G, Gulseven Z, Palermo F, Lin CH, Nagel SC, Vu DC, Vo PH, Ho TL, McElroy JA. Exposure to environmental toxicants and young children's cognitive and social development. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2019; 34:35-56. [PMID: 30844763 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2018-0045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Background Understanding the role of environmental toxicant exposure on children's development is an important area of inquiry in order to better understand contextual factors that shape development and ultimately school readiness among young children. There is evidence suggesting negative links between exposure to environmental toxicants and negative physical health outcomes (i.e. asthma, allergies) in children. However, research on children's exposure to environmental toxicants and other developmental outcomes (cognitive, socioemotional) is limited. Objectives The goal of the current review was to assess the existing literature on the links between environmental toxicants (excluding heavy metals) and children's cognitive, socioemotional, and behavioral development among young children. Methods This literature review highlights research on environmental toxicants (i.e. pesticide exposure, bisphenol A, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, tobacco smoke, polychlorinated biphenyls, flame retardants, phthalates and gas pollutions) and children's development across multiple domains. Results The results highlight the potential risk of exposure to multiple environmental toxicants for young children's cognitive and socioemotional development. Discussion Discussion will focus on the role of environmental toxicants in the cognitive and socioemotional development of young children, while highlighting gaps in the existing literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra N Davis
- Individual, Family, and Community Education, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA, Phone: +816-294-6950
| | - Gustavo Carlo
- Human Development and Family Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Zehra Gulseven
- Human Development and Family Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Francisco Palermo
- Human Development and Family Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Chung-Ho Lin
- Center for Agroforestry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Susan C Nagel
- Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Danh C Vu
- Center for Agroforestry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Phuc H Vo
- Center for Agroforestry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Thi L Ho
- Cuu Long Delta Rice Research Institute, Can Tho, Vietnam
| | - Jane A McElroy
- Family and Community Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
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Dórea JG. Multiple low-level exposures: Hg interactions with co-occurring neurotoxic substances in early life. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2018; 1863:129243. [PMID: 30385391 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2018.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
All chemical forms of Hg can affect neurodevelopment; however, low levels of organic Hg (methylmercury-MeHg and ethylmercury-EtHg in Thimerosal-containing vaccines, hereafter 'TCV') exposures during early life (pregnancy and lactation) co-occur with other environmental neurotoxic substances. These neurotoxicants may act in parallel, synergistically, or antagonistically to Hg. Nevertheless, the risks of neurotoxicity associated with multiple neuro-toxicants depend on type, time, combinations of exposure, and environmental and/or genetic-associated factors. Neurological developmental disorders, delays in cognition and behavioral outcomes associated with multiple exposures (which include Hg) may show transient or lasting outcomes depending on constitutional and/or environmental factors that can interact to neutralize, aggravate or attenuate these effects; often these studies are challenging to interpret. During pregnancy and lactation, fish-MeHg exposure is frequently confounded with the opposing effects of neuroactive nutrients (in fish) that lead to positive, negative, or no effects on neurobehavioral tests. In infancy, exposures to acute binary mixtures (TCV- EtHg and Al-adjuvants in infant immunizations) are associated with increased risks of tics and other developmental disorders. Despite the certitude that promulgates single environmental neurotoxicants, empirical comparisons of combined exposures indicate that Hg-related outcome is uneven. Hg in combination with other neurotoxic mixtures may elevate risks of neurotoxicity, but these risks arise in circumstances that are not yet predictable. Therefore, to achieve the goals of the Minamata treaty and to safeguard the health of children, low levels of mercury exposure (in any chemical form) needs to be further reduced whether the source is environmental (air- and food-borne) or iatrogenic (pediatric TCVs).
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Affiliation(s)
- José G Dórea
- Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70919-970, DF, Brazil..
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Jiang CB, Hsueh YM, Kuo GL, Hsu CH, Chang JH, Chien LC. Preliminary study of urinary arsenic concentration and arsenic methylation capacity effects on neurodevelopment in very low birth weight preterm children under 24 months of corrected age. Medicine (Baltimore) 2018; 97:e12800. [PMID: 30412069 PMCID: PMC6221732 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000012800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurological prognoses of very low birth weight preterm (VLBWP) children during the first 2 years of life will influence their neurodevelopment during subsequent childhood years and adolescence. The objective of this study was to systemic investigate relationships of urinary arsenic (As) concentrations, the As methylation capability, and toenail As concentrations on cognitive, language, and motor development in VLBWP children under 24 months of corrected age.Participants (n = 60) in our study were recruited from October 2010 to April 2013. Urine and toenail samples were collected for evaluation to assess As exposure. The Bayley scales of infant development III were used to evaluate neurodevelopment at 2 years of corrected age. Concentrations of As species in urine and the As concentration in toenails were, respectively, analyzed using HPLC-HG-AAS and ICP-MS.The mean concentration of total As was 28.6 μg/g creatinine, and inorganic As was 1.01 μg/L in urine. The urine contained an average of 3% inorganic As, 2% monomethylarsonic acid, and 95% dimethylarsinic acid (DMA). The mean concentration of As in toenails was 225 ng/g. Children with a longer gestational age (≥28 weeks) and higher DMA % levels appeared to have the highest unadjusted cognitive and fine motor scores.Our study results suggest that gestational age is associated with neurodevelopment in VLBWP children. We recommend that further study simultaneously analyze multiple environmental contaminants that may have adverse effects on neurodevelopment, use biomarkers for the mother-child pair, and determine whether prenatal or postnatal As exposure has a greater influence on the neurological development of VLBWP children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuen-Bin Jiang
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, MacKay Children's Hospital
- Mackay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing and Management, Taipei
| | - Yu-Mei Hsueh
- Department of Family Medicine, Shuang Ho Hospital
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, College of Medicine
| | - Guang-Lin Kuo
- School of Public Health, College of Public Health, Taipei Medical University
| | - Chyong-Hsin Hsu
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, MacKay Children's Hospital, Taipei
| | - Jui-Hsing Chang
- Mackay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing and Management, Taipei
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, MacKay Children's Hospital, Taipei
- MacKay Medical College, New Taipei City
| | - Ling-Chu Chien
- School of Public Health, College of Public Health, Taipei Medical University
- Nutrition Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Kim S, Eom S, Kim HJ, Lee JJ, Choi G, Choi S, Kim S, Kim SY, Cho G, Kim YD, Suh E, Kim SK, Kim S, Kim GH, Moon HB, Park J, Kim S, Choi K, Eun SH. Association between maternal exposure to major phthalates, heavy metals, and persistent organic pollutants, and the neurodevelopmental performances of their children at 1 to 2years of age- CHECK cohort study. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 624:377-384. [PMID: 29258038 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.12.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2017] [Revised: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Exposure of the developing fetus and infants to toxic substances can cause serious lifelong health consequences. Several chemicals have been associated with adverse neurodevelopmental disorders in the early life stages of humans. However, most epidemiological studies have focused on a limited number of chemicals, and hence may exclude important chemicals from consideration or result in conclusions built on associations by chance. In the present study, we investigated the chemical exposure profile of the women, and associated these with the early neurodevelopmental performance of their offspring at 13-24months of age. The chemicals assessed include four phthalates, bisphenol A, three heavy metals, 19 polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), 19 organochlorine pesticides, and 19 polybrominated diphenyl ethers, which were measured from urine, whole blood, serum, and/or breastmilk of the pregnant or lactating women. For neurodevelopmental performance, the Bayley Scales of Infant Development-II (BSID-II), Social Maturity Scale (SMS), and Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) were measured from a total of 140 toddlers. Among the measured chemicals, monoethyl phthalate (MEP) in maternal urine was significantly associated with early mental, psychomotor, and social development. In addition, breast milk di-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) metabolite and blood lead concentrations were inversely associated with mental and psychomotor development indices, respectively. Maternal blood PCB153, heavy metals, and urinary MEP levels were also higher among the children with behavioral problems, as indicated by the CBCL range. Taken together, maternal exposure to several EDCs such as PCBs and DEHP was associated with adverse neurodevelopmental performances among the children aged 1-2years. Confirmation of these association in larger populations, as well as longer-term consequences of such exposure warrant further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunmi Kim
- School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Soyong Eom
- College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Seoul 26493, Republic of Korea
| | - Hai-Joong Kim
- College of Medicine, Korea University, Ansan 15355, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Jae Lee
- College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Seoul 04401, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyuyeon Choi
- College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Seoul 04401, Republic of Korea
| | - Sooran Choi
- College of Medicine, Inha University, Incheon 22332, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungjoo Kim
- College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07226, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Young Kim
- College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju 63241, Republic of Korea
| | - Geumjoon Cho
- College of Medicine, Korea University, Ansan 15355, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Don Kim
- Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Changwon 51353, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunsook Suh
- College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Seoul 04401, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Koo Kim
- College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 07226, Republic of Korea
| | - Seunghyo Kim
- College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju 63241, Republic of Korea
| | - Gun-Ha Kim
- College of Medicine, Korea University, Ansan 15355, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo-Bang Moon
- Department of Marine Sciences and Convergent Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongim Park
- College of Natural Sciences, Soonchunhyang University, Asan 31538, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungkyoon Kim
- School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyungho Choi
- School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - So-Hee Eun
- College of Medicine, Korea University, Ansan 15355, Republic of Korea.
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Plusquellec P, Denault V. The 1000 Most Cited Papers on Visible Nonverbal Behavior: A Bibliometric Analysis. JOURNAL OF NONVERBAL BEHAVIOR 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s10919-018-0280-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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Karkaba A, Soualeh N, Soulimani R, Bouayed J. Perinatal effects of exposure to PCBs on social preferences in young adult and middle-aged offspring mice. Horm Behav 2017; 96:137-146. [PMID: 28935448 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2017.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Revised: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
In social species, social interactions between conspecifics constitute a fundamental component to establish relations, provide best chances to reproduce, and even improve survival rates. In this study, a three-chambered social approach test was used to estimate the level of sociability and level of preference for social novelty in both male and female young adult (postnatal day (PND) 50) and middle-aged (PND 330) offspring mice (n=10 per group) that were perinatally exposed to a mixture of six polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), 28, 52, 101, 138, 153, and 180, at environmentally low doses (10 and 1000ng/kg b.w. for dams during gestation and lactation), a profile that closely mimics human exposure to contaminated fish. Our results showed that PCBs bidirectionally modulated social preferences in offspring mice, and the effects were sex and age dependent. However, increased levels of social interactions were rather frequently detected in both assays of the three-chambered test. Reduced social interaction was only induced in 1000ng/kg PCB-exposed middle-aged males, which exhibited similar preferences to social and non-social stimuli when compared to middle-aged controls. Furthermore, results showed that plasma levels of both corticosterone and acetylcholinesterase activity were higher in all PCB-exposed middle-aged males and females than in their control counterparts. In summary, although the effects of PCBs were only of moderate magnitude, our results suggest that a PCB mixture can act as an endocrine disruptor in offspring mice, disturbing the formation of normal social habits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaa Karkaba
- Université de Lorraine, Neurotoxicologie Alimentaire et Bioactivité, Rue du Général Delestraint, Campus Bridoux, 57070 Metz, France
| | - Nidhal Soualeh
- Université de Lorraine, Neurotoxicologie Alimentaire et Bioactivité, Rue du Général Delestraint, Campus Bridoux, 57070 Metz, France
| | - Rachid Soulimani
- Université de Lorraine, Neurotoxicologie Alimentaire et Bioactivité, Rue du Général Delestraint, Campus Bridoux, 57070 Metz, France
| | - Jaouad Bouayed
- Université de Lorraine, Neurotoxicologie Alimentaire et Bioactivité, Rue du Général Delestraint, Campus Bridoux, 57070 Metz, France.
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Ruggieri F, Majorani C, Domanico F, Alimonti A. Mercury in Children: Current State on Exposure through Human Biomonitoring Studies. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14050519. [PMID: 28498344 PMCID: PMC5451970 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14050519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Revised: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) in children has multiple exposure sources and the toxicity of Hg compounds depends on exposure routes, dose, timing of exposure, and developmental stage (be it prenatal or postnatal). Over the last decades, Hg was widely recognized as a threat to the children’s health and there have been acknowledgements at the international level of the need of a global policy intervention—like the Minamata treaty—aimed at reducing or preventing Hg exposure and protecting the child health. National human biomonitoring (HBM) data has demonstrated that low levels of exposure of Hg are still an important health concern for children, which no one country can solve alone. Although independent HBM surveys have provided the basis for the achievements of exposure mitigation in specific contexts, a new paradigm for a coordinated global monitoring of children’s exposure, aimed at a reliable decision-making tool at global level is yet a great challenge for the next future. The objective of the present review is to describe current HBM studies on Hg exposure in children, taking into account the potential pathways of Hg exposure and the actual Hg exposure levels assessed by different biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Ruggieri
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Costanza Majorani
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesco Domanico
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Alimonti
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
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Gustin K, Tofail F, Mehrin F, Levi M, Vahter M, Kippler M. Methylmercury exposure and cognitive abilities and behavior at 10years of age. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2017; 102:97-105. [PMID: 28216013 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2017.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Revised: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 02/10/2017] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methylmercury (MeHg) is a known developmental neurotoxicant present in fish, yet the impact of childhood exposure is uncertain, especially in children with poor nutrition. OBJECTIVES To evaluate associations of MeHg exposure with cognitive abilities and behavior in children from a poor rural area in Bangladesh. METHODS The MeHg exposure was assessed in 1434 ten-year-old children by measuring mercury concentrations in hair (hair-Hg), using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Cognitive abilities were assessed with the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (4th edition), and behavior by the parent-report Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. RESULTS Children's median hair-Hg was 674μg/kg (range 70-17,561μg/kg). Concentrations did not differ by distance from scalp, indicating a similar exposure over time. No multivariable-adjusted associations were observed between the children's hair-Hg and their cognitive abilities. However, children in the highest tertile of hair-Hg had a lower prevalence of hyperactivity (OR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.45-0.83) and peer relationship problems (OR: 0.58, 95% CI: 0.44-0.76), compared to children in the lowest tertile. The corresponding ORs were slightly stronger in children from families with lower socioeconomic status (OR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.34-0.90 and OR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.30-0.74) than in children from families with higher socioeconomic status (OR: 0.73, 95% CI: 0.49-1.08 and OR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.51-1.02). Similar stronger ORs were observed in underweight children. CONCLUSION MeHg exposure was not associated with cognitive function, but inversely associated with certain adverse behavior. More studies are needed concerning the risk-benefit of different fish consumption in rural Bangladesh.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klara Gustin
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Box 210, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Fahmida Tofail
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Fardina Mehrin
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Michael Levi
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Box 210, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marie Vahter
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Box 210, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Kippler
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Box 210, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
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Tatsuta N, Murata K, Iwai-Shimada M, Yaginuma-Sakurai K, Satoh H, Nakai K. Psychomotor Ability in Children Prenatally Exposed to Methylmercury: The 18-Month Follow-Up of Tohoku Study of Child Development. TOHOKU J EXP MED 2017; 242:1-8. [PMID: 28484113 DOI: 10.1620/tjem.242.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Fish contain nutrients essential to the developing fetal brain, but they are contaminated with methylmercury. The Tohoku Study of Child Development, now underway in the Sanriku coastal area of Miyagi prefecture, Japan, follows mother-child pairs to examine the risks and benefits of fish consumption during pregnancy, especially the effects of prenatal exposures to methylmercury, selenium, and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on child neurodevelopment. Children aged 18 months were administered the Bayley Scales of Infant Development second edition (BSID-II) and Kyoto Scale of Psychological Development (KSPD) in 2004-2008. Complete data of cord-blood total mercury (THg), cord-plasma selenium, maternal-plasma DHA, the above test scores, and confounders for 566 mother-child pairs were available. The median cord-blood THg level was 15.7 (range, 2.7-96.1) ng/g. Since the BSID-II and KSPD scores were significantly lower in the 285 boys than in the 281 girls, analyses were conducted separately. The Psychomotor Development Index (PDI) of BSID-II was significantly correlated with cord-blood THg only in the boys, and significance of the association remained unchanged after adjusting for possible confounders; i.e., a 10-fold increase in cord-blood THg was associated with a 8.3-point decrease in the score of the PDI. Other significant correlations of THg were not seen in the boys or girls. Selenium and DHA showed no significant correlations with the BSID-II or KSPD scores in either sex. In conclusion, intrauterine methylmercury exposure may affect psychomotor development, and boys appear to be more vulnerable to the exposure than girls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nozomi Tatsuta
- Development and Environmental Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine.,Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Katsuyuki Murata
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Miyuki Iwai-Shimada
- Centre for Health and Environmental Risk Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies
| | - Kozue Yaginuma-Sakurai
- Department of Human Health and Nutrition, Shokei Gakuin University Faculty of Comprehensive Human Science
| | - Hiroshi Satoh
- Environmental Health Sciences, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Kunihiko Nakai
- Development and Environmental Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine
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Adeyi AA, Babalola BA. Lead and Cadmium Levels in Residential Soils of Lagos and Ibadan, Nigeria. J Health Pollut 2017; 7:42-55. [PMID: 30524813 PMCID: PMC6236530 DOI: 10.5696/2156-9614-7-13.42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lead and cadmium are components of paints sold in Nigeria. These heavy metals are associated with adverse neurological, cardiovascular and other human health effects. OBJECTIVES This study assesses the levels of lead and cadmium in topsoil of residential areas in Lagos and Ibadan potentially resulting from painting of buildings. METHODS Samples were pre-treated prior to metal determination using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Metal speciation was determined using modified Tessier sequential extraction. Soil characteristics were determined by standard methods. Soil contamination was assessed using contamination factor, geo-accumulation and pollution load indices. The United States Environmental Protection Agency integrated exposure uptake biokinetic (IEUBK) model was used to estimate and predict children's blood lead levels (BLL). RESULTS Lead and cadmium concentrations in residential areas in Lagos and Ibadan ranged from 1.56-419 mg/kg and not detected-2.8 mg/kg, respectively. Metal contamination factor and pollution load index were highest at the Lagos low income settlement. Results of IEUBK modelling showed that the Lagos low income settlement had the highest probability density for children between 1-7 years of age with an estimated BLL of >10 μg/dL. This population made up less than 0.01% of those within this age range. CONCLUSIONS Lead and cadmium concentrations in soil around the residential buildings were higher than those in the control sample. Contamination factor and pollution load index showed significant contamination in average and low income settlements. These results suggested that there was accumulation of the metals in the soil, which can persist in the environment. This may pose serious health risks, especially to vulnerable groups such as children.
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Gillette R, Reilly MP, Topper VY, Thompson LM, Crews D, Gore AC. Anxiety-like behaviors in adulthood are altered in male but not female rats exposed to low dosages of polychlorinated biphenyls in utero. Horm Behav 2017; 87:8-15. [PMID: 27794483 PMCID: PMC5603326 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2016.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2016] [Revised: 10/20/2016] [Accepted: 10/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), a class of endocrine-disrupting chemicals, can result in altered reproductive behavior in adulthood, especially when exposure occurs during critical periods of brain sexual differentiation in the fetus. Whether PCBs alter other sexually dimorphic behaviors such as those involved in anxiety is poorly understood. To address this, pregnant rat dams were injected twice, on gestational days 16 and 18, with the weakly estrogenic PCB mixture Aroclor 1221 (A1221) at one of two low dosages (0.5mg/kg or 1.0mg/kg, hereafter 1.0 and 0.5), estradiol benzoate (EB; 50μg/kg) as a positive estrogenic control, or the vehicle (3% DMSO in sesame oil). We also conducted a comprehensive assessment of developmental milestones of the F1 male and female offspring. There were no effects of treatment on sex ratio at birth and age at eye opening. Puberty, assessed by vaginal opening in females and preputial separation in males, was not affected in females but was advanced in males treated with A1221 (1.0). Males and females treated with A1221 (both dosages) were heavier in early adulthood relative to controls. The earliest manifestation of this effect developed in males prior to puberty and in females slightly later, during puberty. Anxiety-like behaviors were tested using the light:dark box and elevated plus maze tests in adulthood. In females, anxiety behaviors were unaffected by treatment. Males treated with A1221 (1.0) showed reduced indices of anxiety and increased activity in the light:dark box but not the elevated plus maze. EB failed to replicate the phenotype produced by A1221 for any of the developmental and behavioral endpoints. Collectively, these results indicate that PCBs increase body weight in both sexes, but their effects on anxiety-like behaviors are specific to males. Furthermore, differences between the results of A1221 and EB suggest that the PCBs are likely acting through mechanisms distinct from their estrogenic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross Gillette
- Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States
| | - Michael P Reilly
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States
| | - Viktoria Y Topper
- Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States
| | - Lindsay M Thompson
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States
| | - David Crews
- Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States; Section of Integrative Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States
| | - Andrea C Gore
- Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States; Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States.
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Heyer DB, Meredith RM. Environmental toxicology: Sensitive periods of development and neurodevelopmental disorders. Neurotoxicology 2017; 58:23-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2016.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Revised: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Zhang J, Begum A, Brännström K, Grundström C, Iakovleva I, Olofsson A, Sauer-Eriksson AE, Andersson PL. Structure-Based Virtual Screening Protocol for in Silico Identification of Potential Thyroid Disrupting Chemicals Targeting Transthyretin. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2016; 50:11984-11993. [PMID: 27668830 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.6b02771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Thyroid disruption by xenobiotics is associated with a broad spectrum of severe adverse outcomes. One possible molecular target of thyroid hormone disrupting chemicals (THDCs) is transthyretin (TTR), a thyroid hormone transporter in vertebrates. To better understand the interactions between TTR and THDCs, we determined the crystallographic structures of human TTR in complex with perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and 2,2',4,4'-tetrahydroxybenzophenone (BP2). The molecular interactions between the ligands and TTR were further characterized using molecular dynamics simulations. A structure-based virtual screening (VS) protocol was developed with the intention of providing an efficient tool for the discovery of novel TTR-binders from the Tox21 inventory. Among the 192 predicted binders, 12 representatives were selected, and their TTR binding affinities were studied with isothermal titration calorimetry, of which seven compounds had binding affinities between 0.26 and 100 μM. To elucidate structural details in their binding to TTR, crystal structures were determined of TTR in complex with four of the identified compounds including 2,6-dinitro-p-cresol, bisphenol S, clonixin, and triclopyr. The compounds were found to bind in the TTR hormone binding sites as predicted. Our results show that the developed VS protocol is able to successfully identify potential THDCs, and we suggest that it can be used to propose THDCs for future toxicological evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Zhang
- Department of Chemistry and ‡Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Umeå University , SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Afshan Begum
- Department of Chemistry and ‡Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Umeå University , SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Kristoffer Brännström
- Department of Chemistry and ‡Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Umeå University , SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Christin Grundström
- Department of Chemistry and ‡Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Umeå University , SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Irina Iakovleva
- Department of Chemistry and ‡Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Umeå University , SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Anders Olofsson
- Department of Chemistry and ‡Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Umeå University , SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - A Elisabeth Sauer-Eriksson
- Department of Chemistry and ‡Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Umeå University , SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Patrik L Andersson
- Department of Chemistry and ‡Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Umeå University , SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden
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Taylor CM, Golding J, Emond AM. Blood mercury levels and fish consumption in pregnancy: Risks and benefits for birth outcomes in a prospective observational birth cohort. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2016; 219:513-20. [PMID: 27252152 PMCID: PMC4970655 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2016.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Revised: 05/17/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Background To avoid exposure to mercury, government advice on fish consumption during pregnancy includes information on fish species to avoid and to limit, while encouraging consumption of least two portions of fish per week. Some women may, however, chose to avoid fish completely during pregnancy despite potential benefits to the fetus. Objectives Our aims were to evaluate the effects of blood mercury levels in pregnant women on birth outcomes in the UK, and to compare outcomes in those who ate fish with those who did not. Methods Pregnant women were enrolled in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC). Whole blood samples for singleton pregnancies with a live birth were analysed for Hg by inductively coupled plasma dynamic reaction cell mass spectrometry (n = 4044). Fish intake was determined by a food frequency questionnaire during pregnancy. Data collected on the infants included anthropometric variables and gestational age at delivery. Regression models were adjusted for covariates using SPSS v23. Results There were no significant associations of maternal blood Hg level with birthweight, head circumference or crown–heel length in adjusted linear regression models. Similarly, there were no increased odds of low birthweight or preterm delivery in adjusted logistic regression models. When the models were repeated after stratification into fish-eaters and there were no associations except for a negative association with birthweight in non-fish-eaters (unstandardised B coefficient −58.4 (95% confidence interval −113.8, −3.0) g, p = 0.039). Conclusion Moderate mercury levels in pregnancy were not associated with anthropometric variables, or on the odds of low birthweight or preterm birth. Fish consumption may have a protective effect on birthweight. Consumption of fish in line with government guidelines during pregnancy should be encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M Taylor
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Health, School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | - Jean Golding
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Health, School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Alan M Emond
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Health, School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Bodeau-Livinec F, Glorennec P, Cot M, Dumas P, Durand S, Massougbodji A, Ayotte P, Le Bot B. Elevated Blood Lead Levels in Infants and Mothers in Benin and Potential Sources of Exposure. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:ijerph13030316. [PMID: 26978384 PMCID: PMC4808979 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13030316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2015] [Revised: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 02/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Lead in childhood is well known to be associated with poor neurodevelopment. As part of a study on maternal anemia and offspring neurodevelopment, we analyzed blood lead level (BLL) with no prior knowledge of lead exposure in 225 mothers and 685 offspring 1 to 2 years old from Allada, a semi-rural area in Benin, sub-Saharan Africa, between May 2011 and May 2013. Blood samples were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Environmental assessments in households and isotopic ratio measurements were performed for eight children with BLL > 100 µg/L. High lead levels (BLL > 50 µg/L) were found in 44% of mothers and 58% of children. The median BLL was 55.1 (interquartile range 39.2–85.0) and 46.6 (36.5–60.1) µg/L, respectively. Maternal BLL was associated with offspring’s consumption of piped water and animals killed by ammunition. Children’s BLL was associated with presence of paint chips in the house and consumption of animals killed by ammunition. In this population, with 98% of children still breastfed, children’s BLL was highly associated with maternal BLL on multivariate analyses. Environmental measures and isotopic ratios supported these findings. Offspring may be highly exposed to lead in utero and probably via breastfeeding in addition to lead paint exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence Bodeau-Livinec
- Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique, 35043 Rennes, France.
- Inserm UMR 1153 Obstetrical, Perinatal and Pediatric Epidemiology Research Team (Epopé), Center for Epidemiology and Statistics Sorbonne Paris Cité, DHU Risks in Pregnancy, Paris Descartes University, 75014 Paris, France.
| | - Philippe Glorennec
- Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique, 35043 Rennes, France.
- Inserm UMR 1085, Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail (IRSET), 35000 Rennes, France.
| | - Michel Cot
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), Mère et Enfant Face aux Infections Tropicales, 75006 Paris, France.
- Faculté des Sciences Pharmaceutiques et Biologiques, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Université Paris Descartes, 75006 Paris, France.
| | - Pierre Dumas
- Laboratoire de Toxicologie, Institut National de Santé Publique du Québec, Québec, QC G1V 5B3, Canada.
| | - Séverine Durand
- Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique, 35043 Rennes, France.
- Inserm UMR 1085, Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail (IRSET), 35000 Rennes, France.
| | - Achille Massougbodji
- Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique, 35043 Rennes, France.
- Faculté des Sciences de la Santé, Université d'Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Bénin.
| | - Pierre Ayotte
- Laboratoire de Toxicologie, Institut National de Santé Publique du Québec, Québec, QC G1V 5B3, Canada.
- Axe Santé des Populations et Pratiques Optimales en Santé, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Québec, QC G1V 5B3, Canada.
| | - Barbara Le Bot
- Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique, 35043 Rennes, France.
- Inserm UMR 1085, Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail (IRSET), 35000 Rennes, France.
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Bell MR, Thompson LM, Rodriguez K, Gore AC. Two-hit exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls at gestational and juvenile life stages: 1. Sexually dimorphic effects on social and anxiety-like behaviors. Horm Behav 2016; 78:168-77. [PMID: 26592453 PMCID: PMC4718783 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2015.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Revised: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are widespread environmental contaminants that affect many neuroendocrine functions. The brain is particularly vulnerable to EDCs during critical periods of gestational development when gonadal hormones exert organizational effects on sexually dimorphic behaviors later in life. Peripubertal development is also a time of continued neural sensitivity to organizing effects of hormones, yet little is known about EDC actions at these times. We sought to determine effects of prenatal or juvenile exposures to a class of EDCs, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) at human-relevant dosages on development, physiology, and social and anxiety-related behaviors later in life, and the consequences of a second juvenile "hit" following prenatal treatment. We exposed male and female Sprague-Dawley rats to PCBs (Aroclor 1221, 1mg/kg/day, ip injection) and/or vehicle during prenatal development (embryonic days 16, 18, 20), juvenile development (postnatal days 24, 26, 28), or both. These exposures had differential effects on behaviors in sex and age-dependent ways; while prenatal exposure had more effects than juvenile, juvenile exposure often modified or unmasked the effects of the first hit. Additionally, females exhibited altered social and anxiety behavior in adolescence, while males displayed small but significant changes in sociosexual preferences in adulthood. Thus, the brain continues to be sensitive to organizing effects of EDCs through juvenile development. As humans are exposed to EDCs throughout multiple periods in their life, these findings have implications for our understanding of EDC effects on physiology and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret R Bell
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Lindsay M Thompson
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Karla Rodriguez
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA; Franklin College, Franklin, IN 46131, USA
| | - Andrea C Gore
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA; Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA; Institute for Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
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Lovato AK, Creton R, Colwill RM. Effects of embryonic exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) on larval zebrafish behavior. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2015; 53:1-10. [PMID: 26561944 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2015.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2015] [Revised: 11/08/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Developmental disorders such as anxiety, autism, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders have been linked to exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), a ubiquitous anthropogenic pollutant. The zebrafish is widely recognized as an excellent model system for assessing the effects of toxicant exposure on behavior and neurodevelopment. In the present study, we examined the effect of sub-chronic embryonic exposure to the PCB mixture, Aroclor (A) 1254 on anxiety-related behaviors in zebrafish larvae at 7 days post-fertilization (dpf). We found that exposure to low concentrations of A1254, from 2 to 26 h post-fertilization (hpf) induced specific behavioral defects in two assays. In one assay with intermittent presentations of a moving visual stimulus, 5 ppm and 10 ppm PCB-exposed larvae displayed decreased avoidance behavior but no significant differences in thigmotaxis or freezing relative to controls. In the other assay with intermittent presentations of a moving visual stimulus and a stationary visual stimulus, 5 ppm and 10 ppm PCB-exposed larvae had elevated baseline levels of thigmotaxis but no significant differences in avoidance behavior relative to controls. The 5 ppm larvae also displayed higher terminal levels of freezing relative to controls. Collectively, our results show that exposure to ecologically valid PCB concentrations during embryonic development can induce functional deficits and alter behavioral responses to a visual threat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ava K Lovato
- Department of Cognitive, Linguistic & Psychological Sciences, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States
| | - Robbert Creton
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States
| | - Ruth M Colwill
- Department of Cognitive, Linguistic & Psychological Sciences, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States.
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Lombardo JP, Berger DF, Hunt A, Carpenter DO. Inhalation of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB) Produces Hyperactivity in Rats. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2015; 78:1142-1153. [PMID: 26398098 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2015.1060913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a serious behavioral syndrome seen in children, and more common in males than females. There is increasing evidence that prenatal and/or early life exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POP) such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) is associated with increased risk of ADHD occurrence. While PCB exposure is usually attributed to ingestion of contaminated food, recent reports of elevated PCB concentrations in indoor air, especially in schools, raised concern regarding inhalation as an important route of exposure to PCB with consequent effects on neurobehavior. The effects of exposure to air contaminated with Aroclor 1248 or contaminated sediment (SED) from the St. Lawrence River were examined on operant behavior of male and female Sprague-Dawley rats. Data showed that relative to controls, vapor-phase inhalation of PCB, whether from blowing air over Aroclor 1248 or from blowing air over sediment contaminated with PCB, resulted in hyperactivity and impatience in rats, more pronounced in males than females. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that inhalation of PCB may contribute to behavioral abnormalities in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- John P Lombardo
- a Department of Psychology , SUNY College at Cortland , Cortland , New York , USA
| | - David F Berger
- a Department of Psychology , SUNY College at Cortland , Cortland , New York , USA
| | | | - David O Carpenter
- c Institute for Health and the Environment, University at Albany , Rensselaer , New York , USA
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Assessing new dimensions of attentional functions in children prenatally exposed to environmental contaminants using an adapted Posner paradigm. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2015; 51:27-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2015.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2014] [Revised: 07/18/2015] [Accepted: 07/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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50
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Verner MA, Hart JE, Sagiv SK, Bellinger DC, Altshul LM, Korrick SA. Measured Prenatal and Estimated Postnatal Levels of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) and ADHD-Related Behaviors in 8-Year-Old Children. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2015; 123:888-94. [PMID: 25769180 PMCID: PMC4559949 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1408084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2014] [Accepted: 03/11/2015] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiologic studies of postnatal PCB exposure and behavior have not reported consistent evidence of adverse associations, possibly because of challenges in exposure estimation. We previously developed a pharmacokinetic model to improve estimation of children's PCB exposure. OBJECTIVES We aimed to assess whether estimated serum PCB levels in infancy are associated with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)-related behaviors at 8 years of age among children whose cord serum PCB levels were previously shown to be associated with ADHD-related behaviors. METHODS We used a pharmacokinetic model to estimate monthly serum polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)-153 levels in 441 infants (ages 1-12 months) based on parameters such as breastfeeding and cord serum PCB-153 levels. Behavior was evaluated at age 8 using the Conners' Rating Scale for Teachers (CRS-T). Associations between PCB-153 levels and ADHD-related CRS-T indices were assessed using multivariable quantile regression at the 50th and 75th percentiles of CRS-T scores, where higher percentiles reflect more adverse behaviors. RESULTS Cord serum PCB-153 levels (median, 38 ng/g lipids) were associated with ADHD-related behaviors, although statistical significance was observed with quantile regression models only at the 75th percentile. Associations with postnatal exposure estimates were attenuated. For example, hyperactive-impulsive behavior scores at age 8 years were 0.9 points (95% CI: 0.2, 2.5), 0.5 points (95% CI: 0.3, 2.3), and 0.3 points (95% CI: -0.2, 1.5) higher in association with interquartile range increases in serum PCB-153 at birth, 2 months, and 12 months of age, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Associations between estimated postnatal PCB-153 exposures and ADHD-related behaviors at 8 years of age were weaker than associations with PCB-153 concentrations measured in cord serum at birth. CITATION Verner MA, Hart JE, Sagiv SK, Bellinger DC, Altshul LM, Korrick SA. 2015. Measured prenatal and estimated postnatal levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and ADHD-related behaviors in 8-year-old children. Environ Health Perspect 123:888-894; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1408084.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc-André Verner
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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