1
|
Canzian J, Borba JV, Resmim CM, Mohammed KA, Pretzel CW, Adedara IA, Rosemberg DB. The dopamine transporter inhibition using GBR 12909 as a novel pharmacological tool to assess bipolar disorder-like neurobehavioral phenotypes in zebrafish. Behav Brain Res 2025; 477:115302. [PMID: 39442564 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2024.115302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2024] [Revised: 10/11/2024] [Accepted: 10/19/2024] [Indexed: 10/25/2024]
Abstract
Dopamine (DA) is a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in brain physiology. Changes in DA-mediated signaling have been implicated with the pathophysiology of various neuropsychiatric conditions. Bipolar disorder (BD) is a mental disorder, characterized by alterning between manic/hypomanic and depressive mood. In experimental research, the pharmacological inhibition of DA reuptake using GBR 12909 serves as a tool to elicit BD-like phenotypes. Alternative model organisms, such as the zebrafish (Danio rerio), have been considered important systems for investigating the neurobehavioral changes involved in different neuropsychiatric conditions, including BD. Here, we discuss the use of GBR 12909 as a novel pharmacological strategy to mimic BD-like phenotypes in zebrafish models. We also emphasize the well-conserved DA-mediated signaling in zebrafish and the early expression of dopaminergic biomarkers in the brain, especially focusing on dopamine transporter (DAT), the main target of GBR 12909. Finally, we discuss potential advantages and limitations in the field, the perspectives of using GBR 12909 in BD research, and how distinct validation criteria (i.e., face, predictive, and construct validity) can be assessed in translational approaches using zebrafish-based models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Canzian
- Laboratory of Experimental Neuropsychobiology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Natural and Exact Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Maria, 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil; Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Toxicological Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Maria, 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil.
| | - João V Borba
- Laboratory of Experimental Neuropsychobiology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Natural and Exact Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Maria, 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil; Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Toxicological Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Maria, 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Cássio M Resmim
- Laboratory of Experimental Neuropsychobiology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Natural and Exact Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Maria, 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil; Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Toxicological Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Maria, 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Khadija A Mohammed
- Laboratory of Experimental Neuropsychobiology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Natural and Exact Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Maria, 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil; Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Toxicological Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Maria, 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Camilla W Pretzel
- Laboratory of Experimental Neuropsychobiology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Natural and Exact Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Maria, 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Isaac A Adedara
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Center of Rural Sciences, Federal University of Santa Maria, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Denis B Rosemberg
- Laboratory of Experimental Neuropsychobiology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Natural and Exact Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Maria, 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil; Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Toxicological Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Maria, 1000 Roraima Avenue, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil; The International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), 309 Palmer Court, Slidell, LA 70458, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Nishimura Y. [Assessment of developmental neurotoxicity of pharmaceuticals using zebrafish behavior]. Nihon Yakurigaku Zasshi 2025; 160:115-119. [PMID: 40024697 DOI: 10.1254/fpj.24085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/04/2025]
Abstract
Pharmaceuticals used for pregnant women must be safe for the babies while therapeutic to the mothers. To ensure the safety of drugs, developmental neurotoxicity should be evaluated although it is currently not a mandatory requirement in the US and Europe at the regulatory level. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has constituted the test guideline (TG426) to assess developmental neurotoxicity. TG426 requires various assessments using animals (assuming rats), including the brain weight, neuropathology, locomotion, sensorimotor function, and learning ability of dams from the mother treated with the chemical during pregnancy. Due to the huge burden of the cost, time, and labor, the number of chemicals evaluated for developmental neurotoxicity by TG426 remains around 200. To boost the pace of the assessment, OCED has constituted a novel guideline (No. 377) adopting in vitro test batteries. OCED has also evaluated the utility of the neurobehavior of zebrafish larvae in the assessment of developmental neurotoxicity. In this review, I focus on valproic acid, a therapeutic drug to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder and a well-known developmental neurotoxicant, and summarize the studies using zebrafish neurobehavior to assess the developmental neurotoxicity of valproic acid. The utility and validity of zebrafish neurobehavior for developmental neurotoxicity testing are discussed by comparing the findings from rodents and humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuhei Nishimura
- Department of Integrative Pharmacology, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Camussi D, Naef V, Brogi L, Della Vecchia S, Marchese M, Nicoletti F, Santorelli FM, Licitra R. Delving into the Complexity of Valproate-Induced Autism Spectrum Disorder: The Use of Zebrafish Models. Cells 2024; 13:1349. [PMID: 39195239 PMCID: PMC11487397 DOI: 10.3390/cells13161349] [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: 07/13/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a multifactorial neurodevelopmental condition with several identified risk factors, both genetic and non-genetic. Among these, prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA) has been extensively associated with the development of the disorder. The zebrafish, a cost- and time-effective model, is useful for studying ASD features. Using validated VPA-induced ASD zebrafish models, we aimed to provide new insights into VPA exposure effects during embryonic development and to identify new potential biomarkers associated with ASD-like features. Dose-response analyses were performed in vivo to study larval phenotypes and mechanisms underlying neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, microglial cell status, and motor behaviour. Wild-type and transgenic Tg(mpeg1:EGFP) zebrafish were water-exposed to VPA doses (5 to 500 µM) from 6 to 120 h post-fertilisation (hpf). Embryos and larvae were monitored daily to assess survival and hatching rates, and numerous analyses and tests were conducted from 24 to 120 hpf. VPA doses higher than 50 µM worsened survival and hatching rates, while doses of 25 µM or more altered morphology, microglial status, and larval behaviours. VPA 50 µM also affected mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines and neurogenesis-related genes, mitochondrial respiration, and reactive oxygen species accumulation. The study confirmed that VPA alters brain homeostasis, synaptic interconnections, and neurogenesis-related signalling pathways, contributing to ASD aetiopathogenesis. Further studies are essential to identify novel ASD biomarkers for developing new drug targets and tailored therapeutic interventions for ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diletta Camussi
- Department of Neurobiology and Molecular Medicine, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, 56128 Pisa, Italy; (D.C.); (V.N.); (S.D.V.); (M.M.)
| | - Valentina Naef
- Department of Neurobiology and Molecular Medicine, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, 56128 Pisa, Italy; (D.C.); (V.N.); (S.D.V.); (M.M.)
| | - Letizia Brogi
- Bio@SNS, Department of Neurosciences, Scuola Normale Superiore, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Stefania Della Vecchia
- Department of Neurobiology and Molecular Medicine, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, 56128 Pisa, Italy; (D.C.); (V.N.); (S.D.V.); (M.M.)
| | - Maria Marchese
- Department of Neurobiology and Molecular Medicine, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, 56128 Pisa, Italy; (D.C.); (V.N.); (S.D.V.); (M.M.)
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology Vittorio Erspamer, “La Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
- IRCSS Neuromed, “La Sapienza” University of Rome, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Filippo M. Santorelli
- Department of Neurobiology and Molecular Medicine, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, 56128 Pisa, Italy; (D.C.); (V.N.); (S.D.V.); (M.M.)
| | - Rosario Licitra
- Department of Neurobiology and Molecular Medicine, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, 56128 Pisa, Italy; (D.C.); (V.N.); (S.D.V.); (M.M.)
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hedge JM, Hunter DL, Sanders E, Jarema KA, Olin JK, Britton KN, Lowery M, Knapp BR, Padilla S, Hill BN. Influence of Methylene Blue or Dimethyl Sulfoxide on Larval Zebrafish Development and Behavior. Zebrafish 2023; 20:132-145. [PMID: 37406269 PMCID: PMC10627343 DOI: 10.1089/zeb.2023.0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of larval zebrafish developmental testing and assessment, specifically larval zebrafish locomotor activity, has been recognized as a higher throughput testing strategy to identify developmentally toxic and neurotoxic chemicals. There are, however, no standardized protocols for this type of assay, which could result in confounding variables being overlooked. Two chemicals commonly employed during early-life stage zebrafish assays, methylene blue (antifungal agent) and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO, a commonly used vehicle) have been reported to affect the morphology and behavior of freshwater fish. In this study, we conducted developmental toxicity (morphology) and neurotoxicity (behavior) assessments of commonly employed concentrations for both chemicals (0.6-10.0 μM methylene blue; 0.3%-1.0% v/v DMSO). A light-dark transition behavioral testing paradigm was applied to morphologically normal, 6 days postfertilization (dpf) zebrafish larvae kept at 26°C. Additionally, an acute DMSO challenge was administered based on early-life stage zebrafish assays typically used in this research area. Results from developmental toxicity screens were similar between both chemicals with no morphological abnormalities detected at any of the concentrations tested. However, neurodevelopmental results were mixed between the two chemicals of interest. Methylene blue resulted in no behavioral changes up to the highest concentration tested, 10.0 μM. By contrast, DMSO altered larval behavior following developmental exposure at concentrations as low as 0.5% (v/v) and exhibited differential concentration-response patterns in the light and dark photoperiods. These results indicate that developmental DMSO exposure can affect larval zebrafish locomotor activity at routinely used concentrations in developmental neurotoxicity assessments, whereas methylene blue does not appear to be developmentally or neurodevelopmentally toxic to larval zebrafish at routinely used concentrations. These results also highlight the importance of understanding the influence of experimental conditions on larval zebrafish locomotor activity that may ultimately confound the interpretation of results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joan M. Hedge
- Office of Research and Development, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Advanced Experimental Toxicology Models Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - Deborah L. Hunter
- Office of Research and Development, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Rapid Assay Development Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - Erik Sanders
- Aquatics Lab Services LLC 1112 Nashville Street St. Peters, MO 63376, USA
| | - Kimberly A. Jarema
- Office of Research and Development, Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, Immediate Office, Program Operations Staff, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - Jeanene K. Olin
- Office of Research and Development, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Rapid Assay Development Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - Katy N. Britton
- ORAU Research Participation Program hosted by EPA, Office of Research and Development, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Rapid Assay Development Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - Morgan Lowery
- Office of Research and Development, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Rapid Assay Development Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - Bridget R. Knapp
- ORISE Research Participation Program hosted by EPA, Office of Research and Development, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Rapid Assay Development Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - Stephanie Padilla
- Office of Research and Development, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Rapid Assay Development Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - Bridgett N. Hill
- ORISE Research Participation Program hosted by EPA, Office of Research and Development, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Rapid Assay Development Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Huang W, Wu T, Wu R, Peng J, Zhang Q, Shi X, Wu K. Fish to learn: insights into the effects of environmental chemicals on eye development and visual function in zebrafish. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023:10.1007/s11356-023-27629-3. [PMID: 37195602 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-27629-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Vision is the most essential sense system for the human being. Congenital visual impairment affects millions of people globally. It is increasingly realized that visual system development is an impressionable target of environmental chemicals. However, due to inaccessibility and ethical issues, the use of humans and other placental mammals is constrained, which limits our better understanding of environmental factors on ocular development and visual function in the embryonic stage. Therefore, as complementing laboratory rodents, zebrafish has been the most frequently employed to understand the effects of environmental chemicals on eye development and visual function. One of the major reasons for the increasing use of zebrafish is their polychromatic vision. Zebrafish retinas are morphologically and functionally analogous to those of mammalian, as well as evolutionary conservation among vertebrate eye. This review provides an update on harmful effects from exposure to environmental chemicals, involving metallic elements (ions), metal-derived nanoparticles, microplastics, nanoplastics, persistent organic pollutants, pesticides, and pharmaceutical pollutants on the eye development and visual function in zebrafish embryos. The collected data provide a comprehensive understanding of environmental factors on ocular development and visual function. This report highlights that zebrafish is promising as a model to identify hazardous toxicants toward eye development and is hopeful for developing preventative or postnatal therapies for human congenital visual impairment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenlong Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Xinling Rd., No. 22, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Tianjie Wu
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Shantou Central Hospital, Affiliated Shantou Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Ruotong Wu
- School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, China
| | - Jiajun Peng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Xinling Rd., No. 22, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Qiong Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Xinling Rd., No. 22, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoling Shi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Xinling Rd., No. 22, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Kusheng Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Xinling Rd., No. 22, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Naija A, Yalcin HC. Evaluation of cadmium and mercury on cardiovascular and neurological systems: Effects on humans and fish. Toxicol Rep 2023; 10:498-508. [PMID: 37396852 PMCID: PMC10313869 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2023.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemicals are at the top of public health concerns and metals have received much attention in terms of toxicological studies. Cadmium (Cd) and mercury (Hg) are among the most toxic heavy metals and are widely distributed in the environment. They are considered important factors involved in several organ disturbances. Heart and brain tissues are not among the first exposure sites to Cd and Hg but they are directly affected and may manifest intoxication reactions leading to death. Many cases of human intoxication with Cd and Hg showed that these metals have potential cardiotoxic and neurotoxic effects. Human exposure to heavy metals is through fish consumption which is considered as an excellent source of human nutrients. In the current review, we will summarize the most known cases of human intoxication with Cd and Hg, highlight their toxic effects on fish, and investigate the common signal pathways of both Cd and Hg to affect heart and brain tissues. Also, we will present the most common biomarkers used in the assessment of cardiotoxicity and neurotoxicity using Zebrafish model.
Collapse
|
7
|
Dixon SC, Calder BJ, Lilya SM, Davies BM, Martin A, Peterson M, Hansen JM, Suli A. Valproic acid affects neurogenesis during early optic tectum development in zebrafish. Biol Open 2023; 12:286129. [PMID: 36537579 PMCID: PMC9916031 DOI: 10.1242/bio.059567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The mammalian superior colliculus and its non-mammalian homolog, the optic tectum (OT), are midbrain structures that integrate multimodal sensory inputs and guide non-voluntary movements in response to prevalent stimuli. Recent studies have implicated this structure as a possible site affected in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Interestingly, fetal exposure to valproic acid (VPA) has also been associated with an increased risk of ASD in humans and animal models. Therefore, we took the approach of determining the effects of VPA treatment on zebrafish OT development as a first step in identifying the mechanisms that allow its formation. We describe normal OT development during the first 5 days of development and show that in VPA-treated embryos, neuronal specification and neuropil formation was delayed. VPA treatment was most detrimental during the first 3 days of development and did not appear to be linked to oxidative stress. In conclusion, our work provides a foundation for research into mechanisms driving OT development, as well as the relationship between the OT, VPA, and ASD. This article has an associated First Person interview with one of the co-first authors of the paper.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sierra C. Dixon
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Bailey J. Calder
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Shane M. Lilya
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Brandon M. Davies
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Annalie Martin
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Maggie Peterson
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Jason M. Hansen
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Arminda Suli
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA,Author for correspondence ()
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Jarema KA, Hunter DL, Hill BN, Olin JK, Britton KN, Waalkes MR, Padilla S. Developmental Neurotoxicity and Behavioral Screening in Larval Zebrafish with a Comparison to Other Published Results. TOXICS 2022; 10:256. [PMID: 35622669 PMCID: PMC9145655 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10050256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
With the abundance of chemicals in the environment that could potentially cause neurodevelopmental deficits, there is a need for rapid testing and chemical screening assays. This study evaluated the developmental toxicity and behavioral effects of 61 chemicals in zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae using a behavioral Light/Dark assay. Larvae (n = 16-24 per concentration) were exposed to each chemical (0.0001-120 μM) during development and locomotor activity was assessed. Approximately half of the chemicals (n = 30) did not show any gross developmental toxicity (i.e., mortality, dysmorphology or non-hatching) at the highest concentration tested. Twelve of the 31 chemicals that did elicit developmental toxicity were toxic at the highest concentration only, and thirteen chemicals were developmentally toxic at concentrations of 10 µM or lower. Eleven chemicals caused behavioral effects; four chemicals (6-aminonicotinamide, cyclophosphamide, paraquat, phenobarbital) altered behavior in the absence of developmental toxicity. In addition to screening a library of chemicals for developmental neurotoxicity, we also compared our findings with previously published results for those chemicals. Our comparison revealed a general lack of standardized reporting of experimental details, and it also helped identify some chemicals that appear to be consistent positives and negatives across multiple laboratories.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly A. Jarema
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, Immediate Office, Program Operations Staff, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA
| | - Deborah L. Hunter
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Rapid Assay Development Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA; (D.L.H.); (J.K.O.)
| | - Bridgett N. Hill
- ORISE Research Participation Program Hosted by EPA, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Rapid Assay Development Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA;
| | - Jeanene K. Olin
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Rapid Assay Development Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA; (D.L.H.); (J.K.O.)
| | - Katy N. Britton
- ORAU Research Participation Program Hosted by EPA, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Rapid Assay Development Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA;
| | - Matthew R. Waalkes
- ORISE Research Participation Program Hosted by EPA, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Integrated Systems Toxicology Division, Genetic and Cellular Toxicology Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA;
| | - Stephanie Padilla
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Rapid Assay Development Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA; (D.L.H.); (J.K.O.)
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zhang XZ, Huo HQ, Zhu YQ, Feng HY, Jiao J, Tan JX, Wang Y, Hu P, Xu ZF. Folic Acid Rescues Valproic Acid-Induced Morphogenesis Inhibition in Neural Rosettes Derived From Human Pluripotent Stem Cells. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:888152. [PMID: 35651759 PMCID: PMC9148965 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.888152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) to specialize in neuroepithelial tissue makes them ideal candidates for use in the disease models of neural tube defects. In this study, we cultured hPSCs in suspension with modified neural induction method, and immunostaining was applied to detect important markers associated with cell fate and morphogenesis to verify the establishment of the neural tube model in vitro. We carried out the drug experiments to further investigate the toxicity of valproic acid (VPA) exposure and the potential protective effect of folic acid (FA). The results demonstrated that neural rosette undergoes cell fate speciation and lumen formation accompanied by a spatiotemporal shift in the expression patterns of cadherin, indicating the model was successfully established. The results showed that VPA caused morphogenesis inhibition of lumen formation by altering cytoskeletal function and cell polarization, which could be rescued by FA supplement.
Collapse
|
10
|
Muhsen M, Youngs J, Riu A, Gustafsson JÅ, Kondamadugu VS, Garyfalidis E, Bondesson M. Folic acid supplementation rescues valproic acid-induced developmental neurotoxicity and behavioral alterations in zebrafish embryos. Epilepsia 2021; 62:1689-1700. [PMID: 33997963 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fetal exposure to the anticonvulsant drug valproic acid (VPA), used to treat certain types of epilepsy, increases the risk for birth defects, including neural tube defects, as well as learning difficulties and behavioral problems. Here, we investigated neurotoxic effects of VPA exposure using zebrafish as a model organism. The capacity of folic acid (FA) supplementation to rescue the VPA-induced neuronal and behavioral perturbations was also examined. METHODS Zebrafish embryos of different transgenic lines with neuronal green fluorescent protein expression were exposed to increasing concentrations of VPA with or without FA supplementation. Fluorescence microscopy was used to visualize alterations in brain structures and neural progenitor cells, as well as motor neurons and neurite sprouting. A twitching behavioral assay was used to examine the functional consequences of VPA and FA treatment. RESULTS In zebrafish embryos, VPA exposure caused a decrease in the midbrain size, an increase in the midline gap of the hindbrain, and perturbed neurite sprouting of secondary motor neurons, in a concentration-dependent manner. VPA exposure also decreased the fluorescence intensity of neuronal progenitor cells in early developmental stages, indicating fewer cells. Furthermore, VPA exposure significantly altered embryonic twitching activity, causing hyperactivity in dark and hypoactivity in light. Supplementation of FA rescued the VPA-induced smaller midbrain size and hindbrain midline gap defects. FA treatment also increased the number of neuronal progenitor cells in VPA-treated embryos and salvaged neurite sprouting of the secondary motor neurons. FA rescued the VPA-induced alterations in twitching activity in light but not in dark. SIGNIFICANCE We conclude that VPA exposure induces specific neurotoxic perturbations in developing zebrafish embryos, and that FA reversed most of the identified defects. The results demonstrate that zebrafish is a promising model to study VPA-induced teratogenesis and to screen for countermeasures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maram Muhsen
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Jaclyn Youngs
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Anne Riu
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, Center for Nuclear Receptors and Cell Signaling, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jan-Åke Gustafsson
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, Center for Nuclear Receptors and Cell Signaling, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institute, Solna, Sweden
| | - Vijay Sai Kondamadugu
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Elefterios Garyfalidis
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Maria Bondesson
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Fitzgerald JA, Könemann S, Krümpelmann L, Županič A, Vom Berg C. Approaches to Test the Neurotoxicity of Environmental Contaminants in the Zebrafish Model: From Behavior to Molecular Mechanisms. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2021; 40:989-1006. [PMID: 33270929 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of neuroactive chemicals in the aquatic environment is on the rise and poses a potential threat to aquatic biota of currently unpredictable outcome. In particular, subtle changes caused by these chemicals to an organism's sensation or behavior are difficult to tackle with current test systems that focus on rodents or with in vitro test systems that omit whole-animal responses. In recent years, the zebrafish (Danio rerio) has become a popular model organism for toxicological studies and testing strategies, such as the standardized use of zebrafish early life stages in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development's guideline 236. In terms of neurotoxicity, the zebrafish provides a powerful model to investigate changes to the nervous system from several different angles, offering the ability to tackle the mechanisms of action of chemicals in detail. The mechanistic understanding gained through the analysis of this model species provides a good basic knowledge of how neuroactive chemicals might interact with a teleost nervous system. Such information can help infer potential effects occurring to other species exposed to neuroactive chemicals in their aquatic environment and predicting potential risks of a chemical for the aquatic ecosystem. In the present article, we highlight approaches ranging from behavioral to structural, functional, and molecular analysis of the larval zebrafish nervous system, providing a holistic view of potential neurotoxic outcomes. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:989-1006. © 2020 SETAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Fitzgerald
- Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Könemann
- Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Dübendorf, Switzerland
- EPF Lausanne, School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Laura Krümpelmann
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Anže Županič
- Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Dübendorf, Switzerland
- National Institute of Biology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Colette Vom Berg
- Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Oliveira AC, Fascineli ML, Andrade TS, Sousa-Moura D, Domingues I, Camargo NS, Oliveira R, Grisolia CK, Villacis RAR. Exposure to tricyclic antidepressant nortriptyline affects early-life stages of zebrafish (Danio rerio). ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2021; 210:111868. [PMID: 33421720 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2020.111868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Psychiatric drugs are among the leading medications prescribed for humans, with their presence in aquatic environments raising concerns relating to potentially harmful effects on non-target organisms. Nortriptyline (NTP) is a selective serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor antidepressant, widely used in clinics and found in environmental water matrices. In this study, we evaluated the toxic effects of NTP on zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos and early larval stages. Developmental and mortality analyses were performed on zebrafish exposed to NTP for 168 h at concentrations ranging from 500 to 46,900 µg/L. Locomotor behaviour and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity were evaluated by exposing embryos/larvae to lower NTP concentrations (0.006-500 µg/L). The median lethal NTP concentration after 168 h exposure was 2190 µg/L. Although we did not identify significant developmental changes in the treated groups, lack of equilibrium was already visible in surviving larvae exposed to ≥ 500 µg/L NTP. The behavioural analyses showed that NTP was capable of modifying zebrafish larvae swimming behaviour, even at extremely low (0.006 and 0.088 µg/L) environmentally relevant concentrations. We consistently observed a significant reduction in AChE activity in the animals exposed to 500 µg/L NTP. Our results highlight acute toxic effects of NTP on the early-life stages of zebrafish. Most importantly, exposure to environmentally relevant NTP concentrations may affect zebrafish larvae locomotor behaviour, which in turn could reduce the fitness of the species. More studies involving chronic exposure and sensitive endpoints are warranted to better understand the effect of NTP in a more realistic exposure scenario.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana C Oliveira
- Laboratório de Genética Toxicológica, Departamento de Genética e Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, UnB, 70910-900 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Maria L Fascineli
- Laboratório de Genética Toxicológica, Departamento de Genética e Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, UnB, 70910-900 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Thayres S Andrade
- Universidade Federal do Ceará, UFC, Campus de Crateús, 63700-000 Crateús, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Diego Sousa-Moura
- Laboratório de Genética Toxicológica, Departamento de Genética e Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, UnB, 70910-900 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Inês Domingues
- Departamento de Biologia & CESAM, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Níchollas S Camargo
- Faculdade da Ceilândia, Universidade de Brasília, 72220-90 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Rhaul Oliveira
- Laboratório de Genética Toxicológica, Departamento de Genética e Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, UnB, 70910-900 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil; Faculdade de Tecnologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, UNICAMP, 13484-332 Limeira, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cesar K Grisolia
- Laboratório de Genética Toxicológica, Departamento de Genética e Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, UnB, 70910-900 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Rolando A R Villacis
- Laboratório de Genética Toxicológica, Departamento de Genética e Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, UnB, 70910-900 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Cassar S, Dunn C, Ramos MF. Zebrafish as an Animal Model for Ocular Toxicity Testing: A Review of Ocular Anatomy and Functional Assays. Toxicol Pathol 2020; 49:438-454. [PMID: 33063651 DOI: 10.1177/0192623320964748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Xenobiotics make their way into organisms from diverse sources including diet, medication, and pollution. Our understanding of ocular toxicities from xenobiotics in humans, livestock, and wildlife is growing thanks to laboratory animal models. Anatomy and physiology are conserved among vertebrate eyes, and studies with common mammalian preclinical species (rodent, dog) can predict human ocular toxicity. However, since the eye is susceptible to toxicities that may not involve a histological correlate, and these species rely heavily on smell and hearing to navigate their world, discovering visual deficits can be challenging with traditional animal models. Alternative models capable of identifying functional impacts on vision and requiring minimal amounts of chemical are valuable assets to toxicology. Human and zebrafish eyes are anatomically and functionally similar, and it has been reported that several common human ocular toxicants cause comparable toxicity in zebrafish. Vision develops rapidly in zebrafish; the tiny larvae rely on visual cues as early as 4 days, and behavioral responses to those cues can be monitored in high-throughput fashion. This article describes the comparative anatomy of the zebrafish eye, the notable differences from the mammalian eye, and presents practical applications of this underutilized model for assessment of ocular toxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven Cassar
- Preclinical Safety, 419726AbbVie, Inc, North Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Christina Dunn
- Preclinical Safety, 419726AbbVie, Inc, North Chicago, IL, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Dach K, Yaghoobi B, Schmuck MR, Carty DR, Morales KM, Lein PJ. Teratological and Behavioral Screening of the National Toxicology Program 91-Compound Library in Zebrafish (Danio rerio). Toxicol Sci 2019; 167:77-91. [PMID: 30364989 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfy266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
To screen the tens of thousands of chemicals for which no toxicity data currently exists, it is necessary to move from in vivo rodent models to alternative models, such as zebrafish. Here, we used dechorionated Tropical 5D wild-type zebrafish embryos to screen a 91-compound library provided by the National Toxicology Program (NTP) for developmental toxicity. This library contained 86 unique chemicals that included negative controls, flame retardants, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), drugs, industrial chemicals, and pesticides. Fish were exposed to 5 concentrations of each chemical or an equal amount of vehicle (0.5% DMSO) in embryo medium from 6 h post-fertilization (hpf) to 5 days post-fertilization (dpf). Fish were examined daily for mortality and teratogenic effects and photomotor behavior was assessed at 4 and 5 dpf. Of the 5 negative control compounds in the library, none caused mortality/teratogenesis, but two altered behavior. Chemicals provided in duplicate produced similar outcomes. Overall, 13 compounds caused mortality/teratology but not behavioral abnormalities, 24 only affected behavior, and 18 altered both endpoints, with behavior affected at concentrations that did not cause mortality/teratology (55/86 hits). Of the compounds that affected behavior, 52% caused behavioral abnormalities at either 4 or 5 dpf. Compounds within the same functional group caused different behavioral abnormalities, while similar behavioral patterns were caused by compounds from different groups. Our data suggest that behavior is a sensitive endpoint for developmental toxicity screening that integrates multiple modes of toxic action and is influenced by the age of the larval fish at the time of testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Dach
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA California 95616
| | - Bianca Yaghoobi
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA California 95616
| | - Martin R Schmuck
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA California 95616
| | - Dennis R Carty
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA California 95616
| | - Kelly M Morales
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA California 95616
| | - Pamela J Lein
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA California 95616
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ki S, Kwon SH, Eum J, Raslan AA, Kim KN, Hwang BJ, Kee Y. 3D light-sheet assay assessing novel valproate-associated cardiotoxicity and folic acid relief in zebrafish embryogenesis. CHEMOSPHERE 2019; 227:551-560. [PMID: 31004822 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.04.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2019] [Revised: 04/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Precise in vivo toxicological assays to determine the cardiotoxicity of pharmaceuticals and their waste products are essential in order to evaluate their risks to humans and the environment following industrial release. In the present study, we aimed to develop the sensitive imaging-based cardiotoxicity assay and combined 3D light-sheet microscopy with a zebrafish model to identify hidden cardiovascular anomalies induced by valproic acid (VPA) exposure. The zebrafish model is advantageous for this assessment because its embryos remain transparent. The 3D spatial localization of fluorescence-labeled cardiac cells in and around the heart using light-sheet technology revealed dislocalization of the heart from the outflow tract in two-day-old zebrafish embryos treated with 50 μM and 100 μM VPA (P < 0.01) and those embryos exposed to 20 μM VPA presented hypoplastic distal ventricles (P < 0.01). These two observed phenotypes are second heart field-derived cardiac defects. Quantitative analysis of the light-sheet imaging demonstrated that folic acid (FA) supplementation significantly increased the numbers of endocardial and myocardial cells (P < 0.05) and the accretion of second heart field-derived cardiomyocytes to the arterial pole of the outflow tract. The heart rate increased in response to the cellular changes occurring in embryonic heart development (P < 0.05). The present study disclosed the cellular mechanism underlying the role of FA in spontaneous cellular changes in cardiogenesis and in VPA-associated cardiotoxicity. The 3D light-sheet assay may be the next-generation test to evaluate the risks of previously undetected pharmaceutical and environmental cardiotoxicities in both humans and animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seoyoung Ki
- Division of Biomedical Convergence, College of Biomedical Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Seung-Hae Kwon
- Korea Basic Science Institute Chuncheon Center, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Juneyong Eum
- Division of Biomedical Convergence, College of Biomedical Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Ahmed A Raslan
- Division of Biomedical Convergence, College of Biomedical Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Kil-Nam Kim
- Korea Basic Science Institute Chuncheon Center, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Byung Joon Hwang
- Department of Molecular Bioscience, College of Biomedical Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, South Korea.
| | - Yun Kee
- Division of Biomedical Convergence, College of Biomedical Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
de Farias NO, Oliveira R, Sousa-Moura D, de Oliveira RCS, Rodrigues MAC, Andrade TS, Domingues I, Camargo NS, Muehlmann LA, Grisolia CK. Exposure to low concentration of fluoxetine affects development, behaviour and acetylcholinesterase activity of zebrafish embryos. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2019; 215:1-8. [PMID: 30195060 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2018.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Fluoxetine (FLX) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant widely used in clinics and very often found in environmental samples of urban aquatic ecosystems in concentrations ranging from ng/L to μg/L. Fish populations might be especially susceptible to FLX due to the presence of conserved cellular receptors of serotonin. Neurotoxic effects on fish biota of polluted water bodies may be expected, but there are no sufficient studies in the current literature to elucidate this hypothesis. Batteries of embryo larval assays with zebrafish were performed to evaluate the potential effects of FLX exposure, including environmentally relevant concentrations. Evaluated parameters included survival, development, behaviour and neuronal biochemical markers. Regarding acute toxicity, a 168 h-LC50 value of 1.18 mg/L was obtained. Moreover, hatching delay and loss of equilibrium were observed, but at a concentration level much higher than FLX measured environmental concentrations (>100 μg/L). On the other hand, effects on locomotor and acetylcholinesterase activity (≥0.88 and 6 μg/L, respectively) were found at levels close to the maximum reported FLX concentration in surface waters. Altogether, these results suggest that FLX is neurotoxic to early life stages of zebrafish, in a short period of time causing changes in important ecological attributes which can probably be linked from molecular to population level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natália Oliveira de Farias
- Laboratório de Genética Toxicológica, Departamento de Genética e Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Asa Norte, 70910-900 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Rhaul Oliveira
- Laboratório de Genética Toxicológica, Departamento de Genética e Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Asa Norte, 70910-900 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil; Faculdade de Tecnologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, UNICAMP, 13484-332 Limeira, São Paulo, Brazil; Programa de Pós-graduação em Toxicologia e Análises Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade de São Paulo, FCF - USP, 05508-000 Butantã, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Diego Sousa-Moura
- Laboratório de Genética Toxicológica, Departamento de Genética e Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Asa Norte, 70910-900 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Reginaldo Carlyle Silva de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Genética Toxicológica, Departamento de Genética e Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Asa Norte, 70910-900 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Maria Augusta Carvalho Rodrigues
- Laboratório de Genética Toxicológica, Departamento de Genética e Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Asa Norte, 70910-900 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Thayres Sousa Andrade
- Laboratório de Genética Toxicológica, Departamento de Genética e Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Asa Norte, 70910-900 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Inês Domingues
- Departamento de Biologia e CESAM, Universidade de Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Níchollas Serafim Camargo
- Laboratório de Nanobiotecnologia, Departamento de Genética e Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Asa Norte, 70910-900 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil; Faculdade da Ceilândia, Universidade de Brasília, 72220-90 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Luís Alexandre Muehlmann
- Laboratório de Nanobiotecnologia, Departamento de Genética e Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Asa Norte, 70910-900 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil; Faculdade da Ceilândia, Universidade de Brasília, 72220-90 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Cesar Koppe Grisolia
- Laboratório de Genética Toxicológica, Departamento de Genética e Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Asa Norte, 70910-900 Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
d'Amora M, Giordani S. The Utility of Zebrafish as a Model for Screening Developmental Neurotoxicity. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:976. [PMID: 30618594 PMCID: PMC6305331 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The developing central nervous system and the blood brain barrier are especially vulnerable and sensitive to different chemicals, including environmental contaminants and drugs. Developmental exposure to these compounds has been involved in several neurological disorders, such as autism spectrum disorders as well as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Zebrafish (Danio Rerio) have emerged as powerful toxicological model systems that can speed up chemical hazard assessment and can be used to extrapolate neurotoxic effects that chemicals have on humans. Zebrafish embryos and larvae are convenient for high-throughput screening of chemicals, due to their small size, low-cost, easy husbandry, and transparency. Additionally, zebrafish are homologous to other higher order vertebrates in terms of molecular signaling processes, genetic compositions, and tissue/organ structures as well as neurodevelopment. This mini review underlines the potential of the zebrafish as complementary models for developmental neurotoxicity screening of chemicals and describes the different endpoints utilized for such screening with some studies illustrating their use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta d'Amora
- Nano Carbon Materials, Center for Sustainable Future Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Turin, Italy
| | - Silvia Giordani
- Nano Carbon Materials, Center for Sustainable Future Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Turin, Italy.,School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Fernandes Y, Buckley DM, Eberhart JK. Diving into the world of alcohol teratogenesis: a review of zebrafish models of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Biochem Cell Biol 2018; 96:88-97. [PMID: 28817785 PMCID: PMC7413215 DOI: 10.1139/bcb-2017-0122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The term fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) refers to the entire suite of deleterious outcomes resulting from embryonic exposure to alcohol. Along with other reviews in this special issue, we provide insight into how animal models, specifically the zebrafish, have informed our understanding of FASD. We first provide a brief introduction to FASD. We discuss the zebrafish as a model organism and its strengths for alcohol research. We detail how zebrafish has been used to model some of the major defects present in FASD. These include behavioral defects, such as social behavior as well as learning and memory, and structural defects, disrupting organs such as the brain, sensory organs, heart, and craniofacial skeleton. We provide insights into how zebrafish research has aided in our understanding of the mechanisms of ethanol teratogenesis. We end by providing some relatively recent advances that zebrafish has provided in characterizing gene-ethanol interactions that may underlie FASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yohaan Fernandes
- Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78713, USA
- Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78713, USA
| | - Desire M Buckley
- Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78713, USA
- Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78713, USA
| | - Johann K Eberhart
- Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78713, USA
- Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78713, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Bal-Price A, Hogberg HT, Crofton KM, Daneshian M, FitzGerald RE, Fritsche E, Heinonen T, Hougaard Bennekou S, Klima S, Piersma AH, Sachana M, Shafer TJ, Terron A, Monnet-Tschudi F, Viviani B, Waldmann T, Westerink RHS, Wilks MF, Witters H, Zurich MG, Leist M. Recommendation on test readiness criteria for new approach methods in toxicology: Exemplified for developmental neurotoxicity. ALTEX-ALTERNATIVES TO ANIMAL EXPERIMENTATION 2018; 35:306-352. [PMID: 29485663 DOI: 10.14573/altex.1712081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Multiple non-animal-based test methods have never been formally validated. In order to use such new approach methods (NAMs) in a regulatory context, criteria to define their readiness are necessary. The field of developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) testing is used to exemplify the application of readiness criteria. The costs and number of untested chemicals are overwhelming for in vivo DNT testing. Thus, there is a need for inexpensive, high-throughput NAMs, to obtain initial information on potential hazards, and to allow prioritization for further testing. A background on the regulatory and scientific status of DNT testing is provided showing different types of test readiness levels, depending on the intended use of data from NAMs. Readiness criteria, compiled during a stakeholder workshop, uniting scientists from academia, industry and regulatory authorities are presented. An important step beyond the listing of criteria, was the suggestion for a preliminary scoring scheme. On this basis a (semi)-quantitative analysis process was assembled on test readiness of 17 NAMs with respect to various uses (e.g. prioritization/screening, risk assessment). The scoring results suggest that several assays are currently at high readiness levels. Therefore, suggestions are made on how DNT NAMs may be assembled into an integrated approach to testing and assessment (IATA). In parallel, the testing state in these assays was compiled for more than 1000 compounds. Finally, a vision is presented on how further NAM development may be guided by knowledge of signaling pathways necessary for brain development, DNT pathophysiology, and relevant adverse outcome pathways (AOP).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bal-Price
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (EC JRC), Ispra (VA), Italy
| | - Helena T Hogberg
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing (CAAT), Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kevin M Crofton
- National Centre for Computational Toxicology, US EPA, RTP, Washington, NC, USA
| | - Mardas Daneshian
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing, CAAT-Europe, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Rex E FitzGerald
- Swiss Centre for Human Applied Toxicology, SCAHT, University of Basle, Switzerland
| | - Ellen Fritsche
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine & Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Tuula Heinonen
- Finnish Centre for Alternative Methods (FICAM), University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
| | | | - Stefanie Klima
- In vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Aldert H Piersma
- RIVM, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, and Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Magdalini Sachana
- Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Paris, France
| | - Timothy J Shafer
- National Centre for Computational Toxicology, US EPA, RTP, Washington, NC, USA
| | | | - Florianne Monnet-Tschudi
- Swiss Centre for Human Applied Toxicology, SCAHT, University of Basle, Switzerland.,Department of Physiology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Viviani
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Italy
| | - Tanja Waldmann
- In vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Remco H S Westerink
- Neurotoxicology Research Group, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Martin F Wilks
- Swiss Centre for Human Applied Toxicology, SCAHT, University of Basle, Switzerland
| | - Hilda Witters
- VITO, Flemish Institute for Technological Research, Unit Environmental Risk and Health, Mol, Belgium
| | - Marie-Gabrielle Zurich
- Swiss Centre for Human Applied Toxicology, SCAHT, University of Basle, Switzerland.,Department of Physiology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Marcel Leist
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing, CAAT-Europe, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,In vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Stengel D, Wahby S, Braunbeck T. In search of a comprehensible set of endpoints for the routine monitoring of neurotoxicity in vertebrates: sensory perception and nerve transmission in zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:4066-4084. [PMID: 29022183 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-0399-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
In order to develop a test battery based on a variety of neurological systems in fish, three sensory systems (vision, olfaction, and lateral line) as well as nerve transmission (acetylcholine esterase) were analyzed in zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos with respect to their suitability as a model for the screening of neurotoxic trace substances in aquatic ecosystems. As a selection of known or putative neurotoxic compounds, amidotrizoic acid, caffeine, cypermethrin, dichlorvos, 2,4-dinitrotoluene, 2,4-dichlorophenol, 4-nonylphenol, perfluorooctanoic acid, and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid were tested in the fish embryo test (OECD test guideline 236) to determine EC10 values, which were then used as maximum test concentration in subsequent neurotoxicity tests. Whereas inhibition of acetylcholinesterase was investigated biochemically both in vivo and in vitro (ex vivo), the sensory organs were studied in vivo by means of fluorescence microscopy and histopathology in 72- or 96-h-old zebrafish embryos, which are not regarded as protected developmental stages in Europe and thus - at least de jure - represent alternative test methods. Various steps of optimization allowed this neurotoxicity battery to identify neurotoxic potentials for five out of the nine compounds: Cypermethrin and dichlorvos could be shown to specifically modulate acetylcholinesterase activity; dichlorvos, 2,4-dichlorophenol, 4-nonylphenol, and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid led to a degeneration of neuromasts, whereas both vision and olfaction proved quite resistant to concentrations ≤ EC10 of all of the model neurotoxicants tested. Comparison of neurotoxic effects on acetylcholinesterase activity following in vivo and in vitro (ex vivo) exposure to cypermethrin provided hints to a specific enzyme-modulating activity of pyrethroid compounds. Enhancement of the neuromast assay by applying a simultaneous double-staining procedure and implementing a 4-scale scoring system (Stengel et al. 2017) led to reduced variability of results and better statistical resolution and allowed to differentiate location-dependent effects in single neuromasts. Since acetylcholinesterase inhibition and neuromast degeneration can be analyzed in 72- and 96-h-old zebrafish embryos exposed to neurotoxicants according to the standard protocol of the fish embryo toxicity test (OECD TG 236), the fish embryo toxicity test can be enhanced to serve as a sensitive neurotoxicity screening test in non-protected stages of vertebrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Stengel
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Group, Center for Organismal Studies (COS), University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 120, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sarah Wahby
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Group, Center for Organismal Studies (COS), University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 120, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Braunbeck
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Group, Center for Organismal Studies (COS), University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 120, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Shams S, Rihel J, Ortiz JG, Gerlai R. The zebrafish as a promising tool for modeling human brain disorders: A review based upon an IBNS Symposium. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 85:176-190. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2017.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Revised: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
22
|
Liu CX, Peng XL, Hu CC, Li CY, Li Q, Xu X. Developmental profiling of ASD-related shank3 transcripts and their differential regulation by valproic acid in zebrafish. Dev Genes Evol 2016; 226:389-400. [PMID: 27562614 PMCID: PMC5099374 DOI: 10.1007/s00427-016-0561-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 08/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
SHANK3 is a scaffolding protein that binds to various synaptic proteins at the postsynaptic density (PSD) of excitatory glutamatergic synapses. SHANK3 is not only strongly implicated in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) but also plays a critical role in human Phelan-McDermid syndrome (22q13.3 deletion syndrome). Accumulated experimental evidence demonstrates that the zebrafish model system is useful for studying the functions of ASD-related gene during early development. However, many basic features of shank3 transcript expression in zebrafish remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated temporal, spatial, and isoform-specific expression patterns of shank3 during zebrafish development on the basis of previous researches and the differential effects of each shank3 transcript expression after exposure to valproic acid (VPA), an ASD-associated drug. At first, we observed that both shank3a and shank3b were barely expressed at very early ages (before 24 h post-fertilization (hpf)), whereas their expression levels were increased and mainly enriched in the nervous system after 24 hpf. Secondly, all of the six shank3 transcripts gradually increased during the first 7 hpf and then decreased. Subsequently, they exhibited a second increasing peak between 1 month post-fertilization (mpf) and adulthood. Thirdly, VPA treatment affected the isoform-specific expression of zebrafish shank3. In particular, the mRNA expression levels of those isoforms that contain a SAM domain were significantly increased, whereas the mRNA expression level of those which contained an ANK domain but without a SAM domain was decreased. To conclude, our findings support the molecular diversity of shank3 in zebrafish and provide a molecular framework to understand the isoform-specific function of shank3 in zebrafish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Xue Liu
- Division of Child Health Care, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wanyuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Xiao-Lan Peng
- Center for Translational Medicine, Institute of Pediatrics, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defect, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wanyuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Chun-Chun Hu
- Division of Child Health Care, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wanyuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Chun-Yang Li
- Division of Child Health Care, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wanyuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Qiang Li
- Center for Translational Medicine, Institute of Pediatrics, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defect, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wanyuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, China.
| | - Xiu Xu
- Division of Child Health Care, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wanyuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, China.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Chiffre A, Clérandeau C, Dwoinikoff C, Le Bihanic F, Budzinski H, Geret F, Cachot J. Psychotropic drugs in mixture alter swimming behaviour of Japanese medaka (Oryzias latipes) larvae above environmental concentrations. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:4964-77. [PMID: 25175354 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-014-3477-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2014] [Accepted: 08/18/2014] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Psychiatric pharmaceuticals, such as anxiolytics, sedatives, hypnotics and antidepressors, are among the most prescribed active substances in the world. The occurrence of these compounds in the environment, as well as the adverse effects they can have on non-target organisms, justifies the growing concern about these emerging environmental pollutants. This study aims to analyse the effects of six psychotropic drugs, valproate, cyamemazine, citalopram, sertraline, fluoxetine and oxazepam, on the survival and locomotion of Japanese medaka Oryzias latipes larvae. Newly hatched Japanese medaka were exposed to individual compounds for 72 h, at concentrations ranging from 10 μg L(-1) to 10 mg L(-1). Lethal concentrations 50 % (LC50) were estimated at 840, 841 and 9,136 μg L(-1) for fluoxetine, sertraline and citalopram, respectively, while other compounds did not induce any significant increase in mortality. Analysis of the swimming behaviour of larvae, including total distance moved, mobility and location, provided an estimated lowest observed effect concentration (LOEC) of 10 μg L(-1) for citalopram and oxazepam, 12.2 μg L(-1) for cyamemazine, 100 μg L(-1) for fluoxetine, 1,000 μg L(-1) for sertraline and >10,000 μg L(-1) for valproate. Realistic environmental mixture of the six psychotropic compounds induced disruption of larval locomotor behaviour at concentrations about 10- to 100-fold greater than environmental concentrations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Axelle Chiffre
- Laboratoire EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, Université de Bordeaux, Avenue des Facultés, 33405, Talence Cedex, France
- Chrono-Environment Department, UMR 6249 UFC/CNRS usc INRA, University of Franche Comté, Route de Gray, 25000, Besançon, France
| | - Christelle Clérandeau
- Laboratoire EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, Université de Bordeaux, Avenue des Facultés, 33405, Talence Cedex, France
| | - Charline Dwoinikoff
- Laboratoire EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, Université de Bordeaux, Avenue des Facultés, 33405, Talence Cedex, France
| | - Florane Le Bihanic
- Laboratoire EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, Université de Bordeaux, Avenue des Facultés, 33405, Talence Cedex, France
| | - Hélène Budzinski
- Laboratoire EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, Université de Bordeaux, Avenue des Facultés, 33405, Talence Cedex, France
| | - Florence Geret
- Laboratoire GEODE, UMR CNRS 5602, Centre Universitaire Champollion, Place de Verdun, 81012, Albi Cedex 9, France
| | - Jérôme Cachot
- Laboratoire EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, Université de Bordeaux, Avenue des Facultés, 33405, Talence Cedex, France.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Deal S, Wambaugh J, Judson R, Mosher S, Radio N, Houck K, Padilla S. Development of a quantitative morphological assessment of toxicant-treated zebrafish larvae using brightfield imaging and high-content analysis. J Appl Toxicol 2016; 36:1214-22. [PMID: 26924781 DOI: 10.1002/jat.3290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Revised: 11/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
One of the rate-limiting procedures in a developmental zebrafish screen is the morphological assessment of each larva. Most researchers opt for a time-consuming, structured visual assessment by trained human observer(s). The present studies were designed to develop a more objective, accurate and rapid method for screening zebrafish for dysmorphology. Instead of the very detailed human assessment, we have developed the computational malformation index, which combines the use of high-content imaging with a very brief human visual assessment. Each larva was quickly assessed by a human observer (basic visual assessment), killed, fixed and assessed for dysmorphology with the Zebratox V4 BioApplication using the Cellomics® ArrayScan® V(TI) high-content image analysis platform. The basic visual assessment adds in-life parameters, and the high-content analysis assesses each individual larva for various features (total area, width, spine length, head-tail length, length-width ratio, perimeter-area ratio). In developing the computational malformation index, a training set of hundreds of embryos treated with hundreds of chemicals were visually assessed using the basic or detailed method. In the second phase, we assessed both the stability of these high-content measurements and its performance using a test set of zebrafish treated with a dose range of two reference chemicals (trans-retinoic acid or cadmium). We found the measures were stable for at least 1 week and comparison of these automated measures to detailed visual inspection of the larvae showed excellent congruence. Our computational malformation index provides an objective manner for rapid phenotypic brightfield assessment of individual larva in a developmental zebrafish assay. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Deal
- National Center for Computational Toxicology, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.,Division of Pediatrics Neurology and Developmental Neuroscience, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, 6701, Fannin St., Houston, TX, USA
| | - John Wambaugh
- National Center for Computational Toxicology, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Richard Judson
- National Center for Computational Toxicology, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Shad Mosher
- ORISE Fellow, National Center for Computational Toxicology, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Nick Radio
- Thermo Fisher Scientific, Cellular Imaging and Analysis, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Keith Houck
- National Center for Computational Toxicology, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Stephanie Padilla
- National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
García-Cambero JP, García-Cortés H, Valcárcel Y, Catalá M. Environmental concentrations of the cocaine metabolite benzoylecgonine induced sublethal toxicity in the development of plants but not in a zebrafish embryo-larval model. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2015; 300:866-872. [PMID: 26340554 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2015.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2015] [Revised: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 08/12/2015] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Several studies have found cocaine and its main active metabolite benzoylecgonine (BE) in the aquatic environment and drinking water, derived from its consumption by humans as well as the inability of water treatment processes to eliminate it. A few studies have already investigated the ecotoxicology of BE to aquatic invertebrates, but none has still addressed the effects of BE on aquatic vertebrates or vascular plants. The goal of this publication is to provide information on the toxicity of environmental concentrations of BE during animal and vascular plant development, in order to contribute to a better understanding of the potential risk of this substance for the environment. BE induced alterations in mitochondrial activity and DNA levels of fern spores at environmental concentrations (1 ng L(-1)), which could disrupt gametophyte germination. However, BE at concentrations ranging from 1 ng L(-1) to 1 mg L(-1) did not disturb morphogenesis, hatching, heartbeat rate or larval motility in a zebrafish embryo-larval model. Adverse effects on ferns agree with the allelophathic role described for alkaloids and their unspecific interference with plant germination. Therefore, the anthropogenic dispersion of alkaloid allelochemicals may pose a risk for biodiversity and irrigated food production that should be further investigated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J P García-Cambero
- National Centre for Environmental Health, Institute of Health Carlos III, Ctra Majadahonda-Pozuelo km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.
| | - H García-Cortés
- Department of Biology and Geology, Physics and Inorganic Chemistry, Higher School of Science and Technology, Rey Juan Carlos University, ESCET - Campus de Móstoles, C/Tulipán s/n, E-28933 Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
| | - Y Valcárcel
- Department of Preventive Medicine & Surgery, Psychology, Public Health, Inmunology and Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Health Science, Rey Juan Carlos University, Avda Atenas S/N, E-28922 Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - M Catalá
- Department of Biology and Geology, Physics and Inorganic Chemistry, Higher School of Science and Technology, Rey Juan Carlos University, ESCET - Campus de Móstoles, C/Tulipán s/n, E-28933 Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Glazer L, Hahn ME, Aluru N. Delayed effects of developmental exposure to low levels of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist 3,3',4,4',5-pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB126) on adult zebrafish behavior. Neurotoxicology 2015; 52:134-43. [PMID: 26616910 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2015.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2015] [Revised: 11/18/2015] [Accepted: 11/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are ubiquitous environmental contaminants. The most toxic PCBs are the non-ortho-substituted ("dioxin-like") congeners that act through the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) pathway. In humans, perinatal exposure to dioxin-like PCBs is associated with neurodevelopmental toxicity in children. Yet, the full potential for later-life neurobehavioral effects that result from early-life low level exposure to dioxin-like PCBs is not well understood. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of developmental exposure to low levels of dioxin-like PCBs on early- and later-life behavioral phenotypes using zebrafish as a model system. We exposed zebrafish embryos to either vehicle (DMSO) or low concentrations of PCB126 (0.3, 0.6, 1.2nM) for 20h (4-24h post fertilization), and then reared them to adulthood in clean water. Locomotor activity was tested at two larval stages (7 and 14 days post fertilization). Adult fish were tested for anxiety-related behavior using the novel tank and shoaling assays. Adult behavioral assays were repeated several times on the same group of fish and effects on intra- and inter-trial habituation were determined. While there was no effect of PCB126 on larval locomotor activity in response to changes in light conditions, developmental exposure to PCB126 resulted in impaired short- and long-term habituation to a novel environment in adult zebrafish. Cyp1a induction was measured as an indicator for AHR activation. Despite high induction at early stages, cyp1a expression was not induced in the brains of developmentally exposed adult fish that showed altered behavior, suggesting that AHR was not activated at this stage. Our results demonstrate the effectiveness of the zebrafish model in detecting subtle and delayed behavioral effects resulting from developmental exposure to an environmental contaminant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lilah Glazer
- Biology Department and Woods Hole Center for Oceans and Human Health, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA.
| | - Mark E Hahn
- Biology Department and Woods Hole Center for Oceans and Human Health, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA
| | - Neelakanteswar Aluru
- Biology Department and Woods Hole Center for Oceans and Human Health, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Use of alternative assays to identify and prioritize organophosphorus flame retardants for potential developmental and neurotoxicity. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2015; 52:181-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2015.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Revised: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
|
28
|
Legradi J, el Abdellaoui N, van Pomeren M, Legler J. Comparability of behavioural assays using zebrafish larvae to assess neurotoxicity. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:16277-89. [PMID: 25399529 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-014-3805-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2014] [Accepted: 11/02/2014] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Testing of compounds for neurotoxicity has become increasingly important in recent years. It has been shown that neurological disorders like autism may be related to chemical exposures, which may play a crucial role in the progression of these diseases. Special attention has been be given to the substances causing developmental neurotoxicity as the developing nervous system is more vulnerable to impacts by chemicals than the adult nervous system. The zebrafish (Danio rerio) is a well-established model species in developmental biology and an emerging model in behavioural and neurological studies. Zebrafish larvae display numerous behavioural patterns highly similar to rodents and humans. Their physical characteristics make them well suited for automated high-throughput screening. In the last years, the number of behavioural studies conducted with zebrafish larvae has increased notably. The goal of this review is to provide an overview of behavioural assays commonly used to test substances for developmental neurotoxicity. Literature from 1995 to 2014 was reviewed and focussed on assays performed with zebrafish larvae younger than 7 days post fertilization (dpf). The behavioural tests were scrutinized, and parameters describing the different experimental setups were defined. In the next step, we investigated if differences in the experimental parameters alter the outcome of the test. In order to test the comparability of behavioural assays, we analysed several studies using ethanol, valproate and pentylenetetrazole as model substances. Based on our findings, we provide recommendations which could help improve future behavioural studies performed with zebrafish larvae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Legradi
- Institute for Environmental Studies, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - N el Abdellaoui
- Institute for Environmental Studies, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M van Pomeren
- Institute for Environmental Studies, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J Legler
- Institute for Environmental Studies, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Nishimura Y, Murakami S, Ashikawa Y, Sasagawa S, Umemoto N, Shimada Y, Tanaka T. Zebrafish as a systems toxicology model for developmental neurotoxicity testing. Congenit Anom (Kyoto) 2015; 55:1-16. [PMID: 25109898 DOI: 10.1111/cga.12079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 07/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The developing brain is extremely sensitive to many chemicals. Exposure to neurotoxicants during development has been implicated in various neuropsychiatric and neurological disorders, including autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactive disorder, schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's disease. Although rodents have been widely used for developmental neurotoxicity testing, experiments using large numbers of rodents are time-consuming, expensive, and raise ethical concerns. Using alternative non-mammalian animal models may relieve some of these pressures by allowing testing of large numbers of subjects while reducing expenses and minimizing the use of mammalian subjects. In this review, we discuss some of the advantages of using zebrafish in developmental neurotoxicity testing, focusing on central nervous system development, neurobehavior, toxicokinetics, and toxicodynamics in this species. We also describe some important examples of developmental neurotoxicity testing using zebrafish combined with gene expression profiling, neuroimaging, or neurobehavioral assessment. Zebrafish may be a systems toxicology model that has the potential to reveal the pathways of developmental neurotoxicity and to provide a sound basis for human risk assessments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuhei Nishimura
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics and Pharmacoinformatics, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, Tsu, Japan; Mie University Medical Zebrafish Research Center, Tsu, Japan; Depertment of Systems Pharmacology, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, Tsu, Japan; Department of Omics Medicine, Mie University Industrial Technology Innovation Institute, Tsu, Japan; Department of Bioinformatics, Mie University Life Science Research Center, Tsu, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Bal-Price A, Crofton KM, Leist M, Allen S, Arand M, Buetler T, Delrue N, FitzGerald RE, Hartung T, Heinonen T, Hogberg H, Bennekou SH, Lichtensteiger W, Oggier D, Paparella M, Axelstad M, Piersma A, Rached E, Schilter B, Schmuck G, Stoppini L, Tongiorgi E, Tiramani M, Monnet-Tschudi F, Wilks MF, Ylikomi T, Fritsche E. International STakeholder NETwork (ISTNET): creating a developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) testing road map for regulatory purposes. Arch Toxicol 2015; 89:269-87. [PMID: 25618548 PMCID: PMC4309915 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-015-1464-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2014] [Accepted: 12/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
A major problem in developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) risk assessment is the lack of toxicological hazard information for most compounds. Therefore, new approaches are being considered to provide adequate experimental data that allow regulatory decisions. This process requires a matching of regulatory needs on the one hand and the opportunities provided by new test systems and methods on the other hand. Alignment of academically and industrially driven assay development with regulatory needs in the field of DNT is a core mission of the International STakeholder NETwork (ISTNET) in DNT testing. The first meeting of ISTNET was held in Zurich on 23-24 January 2014 in order to explore the concept of adverse outcome pathway (AOP) to practical DNT testing. AOPs were considered promising tools to promote test systems development according to regulatory needs. Moreover, the AOP concept was identified as an important guiding principle to assemble predictive integrated testing strategies (ITSs) for DNT. The recommendations on a road map towards AOP-based DNT testing is considered a stepwise approach, operating initially with incomplete AOPs for compound grouping, and focussing on key events of neurodevelopment. Next steps to be considered in follow-up activities are the use of case studies to further apply the AOP concept in regulatory DNT testing, making use of AOP intersections (common key events) for economic development of screening assays, and addressing the transition from qualitative descriptions to quantitative network modelling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bal-Price
- Systems Toxicology Unit, EURL-ECVAM, Institute for Health and Consumer Protection, European Commission, Joint Research Centre, TP 580, Via Fermi 1, 21026, Ispra, VA, Italy,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Ellis LD, Soo EC, Achenbach JC, Morash MG, Soanes KH. Use of the zebrafish larvae as a model to study cigarette smoke condensate toxicity. PLoS One 2014; 9:e115305. [PMID: 25526262 PMCID: PMC4272283 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0115305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2014] [Accepted: 11/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The smoking of tobacco continues to be the leading cause of premature death worldwide and is linked to the development of a number of serious illnesses including heart disease, respiratory diseases, stroke and cancer. Currently, cell line based toxicity assays are typically used to gain information on the general toxicity of cigarettes and other tobacco products. However, they provide little information regarding the complex disease-related changes that have been linked to smoking. The ethical concerns and high cost associated with mammalian studies have limited their widespread use for in vivo toxicological studies of tobacco. The zebrafish has emerged as a low-cost, high-throughput, in vivo model in the study of toxicology. In this study, smoke condensates from 2 reference cigarettes and 6 Canadian brands of cigarettes with different design features were assessed for acute, developmental, cardiac, and behavioural toxicity (neurotoxicity) in zebrafish larvae. By making use of this multifaceted approach we have developed an in vivo model with which to compare the toxicity profiles of smoke condensates from cigarettes with different design features. This model system may provide insights into the development of smoking related disease and could provide a cost-effective, high-throughput platform for the future evaluation of tobacco products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lee D. Ellis
- National Research Council of Canada, Aquatic and Crop Resource Development, 1411 Oxford Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 3Z1, Canada
| | - Evelyn C. Soo
- Science Division, Office of Research and Surveillance, Controlled Substances and Tobacco Directorate, Health Canada, 150 Tunney's Pasture Driveway, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0K9, Canada, Locator: A.L. 0301A
- * E-mail:
| | - John C. Achenbach
- National Research Council of Canada, Aquatic and Crop Resource Development, 1411 Oxford Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 3Z1, Canada
| | - Michael G. Morash
- National Research Council of Canada, Aquatic and Crop Resource Development, 1411 Oxford Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 3Z1, Canada
| | - Kelly H. Soanes
- National Research Council of Canada, Aquatic and Crop Resource Development, 1411 Oxford Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 3Z1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Nguyen M, Stewart AM, Kalueff AV. Aquatic blues: modeling depression and antidepressant action in zebrafish. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2014; 55:26-39. [PMID: 24657522 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2014.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2014] [Revised: 03/03/2014] [Accepted: 03/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Depression is a serious psychiatric condition affecting millions of patients worldwide. Unipolar depression is characterized by low mood, anhedonia, social withdrawal and other severely debilitating psychiatric symptoms. Bipolar disorder manifests in alternating depressed mood and 'hyperactive' manic/hypomanic states. Animal experimental models are an invaluable tool for research into the pathogenesis of bipolar/unipolar depression, and for the development of potential treatments. Due to their high throughput value, genetic tractability, low cost and quick reproductive cycle, zebrafish (Danio rerio) have emerged as a promising new model species for studying brain disorders. Here, we discuss the developing utility of zebrafish for studying depression disorders, and outline future areas of research in this field. We argue that zebrafish represent a useful model organism for studying depression and its behavioral, genetic and physiological mechanisms, as well as for anti-depressant drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Nguyen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, 415 Lane Road, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA; ZENEREI Institute, 309 Palmer Court, Slidell, LA 70458, USA
| | - Adam Michael Stewart
- ZENEREI Institute, 309 Palmer Court, Slidell, LA 70458, USA; International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), 309 Palmer Court, Slidell, LA 70458, USA; Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, A210 Langley Hall, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA.
| | - Allan V Kalueff
- ZENEREI Institute, 309 Palmer Court, Slidell, LA 70458, USA; International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), 309 Palmer Court, Slidell, LA 70458, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Perrichon P, Le Bihanic F, Bustamante P, Le Menach K, Budzinski H, Cachot J, Cousin X. Influence of sediment composition on PAH toxicity using zebrafish (Danio rerio) and Japanese medaka (Oryzias latipes) embryo-larval assays. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 21:13703-19. [PMID: 25175355 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-014-3502-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Accepted: 08/21/2014] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Due to hydrophobic and persistent properties, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have a high capacity to accumulate in sediment. Sediment quality criteria, for the assessment of habitat quality and risk for aquatic life, include understanding the fate and effects of PAHs. In the context of European regulation (REACH and Water Framework Directive), the first objective was to assess the influence of sediment composition on the toxicity of two model PAHs, benzo[a]pyrene and fluoranthene using 10-day zebrafish embryo-larval assay. This procedure was undertaken with an artificial sediment in order to limit natural sediment variability. A suitable sediment composition might be then validated for zebrafish and proposed in a new OECD guideline for chemicals testing. Second, a comparative study of toxicity responses from this exposure protocol was then performed using another OECD species, the Japanese medaka. The potential toxicity of both PAHs was assessed through lethal (e.g., survival, hatching success) and sublethal endpoints (e.g., abnormalities, PMR, and EROD) measured at different developmental stages, adapted to the embryonic development time of both species. Regarding effects observed for both species, a suitable artificial sediment composition for PAH toxicity testing was set at 92.5 % dry weight (dw) silica of 0.2-0.5-mm grain size, 5 % dw kaolin clay without organic matter for zebrafish, and 2.5 % dw blond peat in more only for Japanese medaka. PAH bioavailability and toxicity were highly dependent on the fraction of organic matter in sediment and of the K ow coefficients of the tested compounds. The biological responses observed were also dependent of the species under consideration. Japanese medaka embryos appeared more robust than zebrafish embryos for understanding the toxicity of PAHs following a sediment contact test, due to the longer exposure duration and lower sensitivity of sediment physical properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prescilla Perrichon
- Ifremer, Laboratoire d'Ecotoxicologie, Place Gaby Coll, BP7, 17137, L'Houmeau, France,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Zebrafish as a Model for Developmental Neurotoxicity Assessment: The Application of the Zebrafish in Defining the Effects of Arsenic, Methylmercury, or Lead on Early Neurodevelopment. TOXICS 2014. [DOI: 10.3390/toxics2030464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
|
35
|
Sugahara Y, Kawaguchi M, Itoyama T, Kurokawa D, Tosa Y, Kitamura SI, Handoh IC, Nakayama K, Murakami Y. Pyrene induces a reduction in midbrain size and abnormal swimming behavior in early-hatched pufferfish larvae. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2014; 85:479-486. [PMID: 24793779 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2014.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2013] [Revised: 04/01/2014] [Accepted: 04/08/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Spills of heavy oil (HO) have an adverse effect on marine life. We have demonstrated previously that exposure to HO by fertilized eggs of the pufferfish (Takifugu rubripes) induces neural disruption and behavioral abnormality in early-hatched larvae. Here, two kinds of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, pyrene and phenanthrene, were selected to examine their toxic effects on larval behavior of another pufferfish species (T. niphobles). Larvae exposed to pyrene or phenanthrene exhibited no abnormalities in morphology. However, those exposed to pyrene but not phenanthrene swam in an uncoordinated manner, although their swimming distance and speed were normal. The optic tectum, a part of the midbrain, of pyrene-exposed larvae did not grow to full size. Thus, these findings are indicated that pyrene might be a contributor to the behavioral and neuro-developmental toxicity, although there is no indication that it is the only compound participating in the toxicity of the heavy oil mixture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Sugahara
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Ehime University, 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Masahumi Kawaguchi
- Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Itoyama
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Ehime University, 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Daisuke Kurokawa
- Misaki Marine Biological Station, The University of Tokyo, 1024 Koajiro, Misaki, Miura, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Tosa
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Ehime University, 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Shin-Ichi Kitamura
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Itsuki C Handoh
- The Futurability Initiatives, Research Institute for Humanity and Nature, 457-4 Motoyama, Kamigamo, Kita-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kei Nakayama
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama, Japan.
| | - Yasunori Murakami
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Ehime University, 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Verrotti A, Scaparrotta A, Cofini M, Chiarelli F, Tiboni GM. Developmental neurotoxicity and anticonvulsant drugs: a possible link. Reprod Toxicol 2014; 48:72-80. [PMID: 24803404 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2014.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2014] [Revised: 04/05/2014] [Accepted: 04/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
In utero exposure to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) may affect neurodevelopment causing postnatal cognitive and behavioral alterations. Phenytoin and phenobarbital may lead to motor and learning dysfunctions in the pre-exposed children. These disorders may reflect the interference of these AEDs with the development of hippocampal and cerebellar neurons, as suggested by animal studies. Exposure to valproic acid may result in inhibition of neural stem cell proliferation and/or immature neuron migration in the cerebral cortex with consequent increased risk of neurodevelopmental impairment, such as autistic spectrum disorders. A central issue in the prevention of AED-mediated developmental effects is the identification of drugs that should be avoided in women of child-bearing potential and during pregnancy. The aim of this review is to explore the possible link between AEDs and neurodevelopmental dysfunctions both in human and in animal studies. The possible mechanisms underlying this association are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Verrotti
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Perugia, Italy
| | - A Scaparrotta
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - M Cofini
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Perugia, Italy
| | - F Chiarelli
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - G M Tiboni
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Judson R, Houck K, Martin M, Knudsen T, Thomas RS, Sipes N, Shah I, Wambaugh J, Crofton K. In vitro and modelling approaches to risk assessment from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ToxCast programme. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2014; 115:69-76. [PMID: 24684691 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.12239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2014] [Accepted: 03/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
A significant challenge in toxicology is the 'too many chemicals' problem. Human beings and environmental species are exposed to tens of thousands of chemicals, only a small percentage of which have been tested thoroughly using standard in vivo test methods. This study reviews several approaches that are being developed to deal with this problem by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, under the umbrella of the ToxCast programme (http://epa.gov/ncct/toxcast/). The overall approach is broken into seven tasks: (i) identifying biological pathways that, when perturbed, can lead to toxicity; (ii) developing high-throughput in vitro assays to test chemical perturbations of these pathways; (iii) identifying the universe of chemicals with likely human or ecological exposure; (iv) testing as many of these chemicals as possible in the relevant in vitro assays; (v) developing hazard models that take the results of these tests and identify chemicals as being potential toxicants; (vi) generating toxicokinetics data on these chemicals to predict the doses at which these hazard pathways would be activated; and (vii) developing exposure models to identify chemicals for which these hazardous dose levels could be achieved. This overall strategy is described and briefly illustrated with recent examples from the ToxCast programme.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Judson
- U.S. EPA, National Center for Computational Toxicology, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Bailey J, Oliveri A, Levin ED. Zebrafish model systems for developmental neurobehavioral toxicology. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 99:14-23. [PMID: 23723169 DOI: 10.1002/bdrc.21027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2013] [Accepted: 03/06/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Zebrafish offer many advantages that complement classic mammalian models for the study of normal development as well as for the teratogenic effects of exposure to hazardous compounds. The clear chorion and embryo of the zebrafish allow for continuous visualization of the anatomical changes associated with development, which, along with short maturation times and the capability of complex behavior, makes this model particularly useful for measuring changes to the developing nervous system. Moreover, the rich array of developmental, behavioral, and molecular benefits offered by the zebrafish have contributed to an increasing demand for the use of zebrafish in behavioral teratology. Essential for this endeavor has been the development of a battery of tests to evaluate a spectrum of behavior in zebrafish. Measures of sensorimotor plasticity, emotional function, cognition and social interaction have been used to characterize the persisting adverse effects of developmental exposure to a variety of chemicals including therapeutic drugs, drugs of abuse and environmental toxicants. In this review, we present and discuss such tests and data from a range of developmental neurobehavioral toxicology studies using zebrafish as a model. Zebrafish provide a key intermediate model between high throughput in vitro screens and the classic mammalian models as they have the accessibility of in vitro models and the complex functional capabilities of mammalian models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Bailey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Kalueff AV, Stewart AM, Gerlai R. Zebrafish as an emerging model for studying complex brain disorders. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2014; 35:63-75. [PMID: 24412421 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2013.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 788] [Impact Index Per Article: 71.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2013] [Revised: 12/06/2013] [Accepted: 12/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The zebrafish (Danio rerio) is rapidly becoming a popular model organism in pharmacogenetics and neuropharmacology. Both larval and adult zebrafish are currently used to increase our understanding of brain function, dysfunction, and their genetic and pharmacological modulation. Here we review the developing utility of zebrafish in the analysis of complex brain disorders (including, e.g., depression, autism, psychoses, drug abuse, and cognitive deficits), also covering zebrafish applications towards the goal of modeling major human neuropsychiatric and drug-induced syndromes. We argue that zebrafish models of complex brain disorders and drug-induced conditions are a rapidly emerging critical field in translational neuroscience and pharmacology research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Allan V Kalueff
- ZENEREI Institute and the International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), 309 Palmer Court, Slidell, LA 70458, USA.
| | - Adam Michael Stewart
- ZENEREI Institute and the International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), 309 Palmer Court, Slidell, LA 70458, USA; Department of Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, A210 Langley Hall, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Robert Gerlai
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto at Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road North, Mississauga, Ontario L5L 1C6, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Cole GJ, Zhang C, Ojiaku P, Bell V, Devkota S, Mukhopadhyay S. Effects of ethanol exposure on nervous system development in zebrafish. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2013; 299:255-315. [PMID: 22959306 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-394310-1.00007-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol (ethanol) is a teratogen that adversely affects nervous system development in a wide range of animal species. In humans numerous congenital abnormalities arise as a result of fetal alcohol exposure, leading to a spectrum of disorders referred to as fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). These abnormalities include craniofacial defects as well as neurological defects that affect a variety of behaviors. These human FASD phenotypes are reproduced in the rodent central nervous system (CNS) following prenatal ethanol exposure. While the study of ethanol effects on zebrafish development has been more limited, several studies have shown that different strains of zebrafish exhibit differential susceptibility to ethanol-induced cyclopia, as well as behavioral deficits. Molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of ethanol on CNS development also appear to be shared between rodent and zebrafish. Thus, zebrafish appear to recapitulate the observed effects of ethanol on human and mouse CNS development, indicating that zebrafish can serve as a complimentary developmental model system to study the molecular basis of FASD. Recent studies examining the effect of ethanol exposure on zebrafish nervous system development are reviewed, with an emphasis on attempts to elucidate possible molecular pathways that may be impacted by developmental ethanol exposure. Recent work from our laboratories supports a role for perturbed extracellular matrix function in the pathology of ethanol exposure during zebrafish CNS development. The use of the zebrafish model to assess the effects of ethanol exposure on adult nervous system function as manifested by changes in zebrafish behavior is also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gregory J Cole
- Julius L. Chambers Biomedical/Biotechnology Research Institute, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Truong L, Reif DM, St Mary L, Geier MC, Truong HD, Tanguay RL. Multidimensional in vivo hazard assessment using zebrafish. Toxicol Sci 2013; 137:212-33. [PMID: 24136191 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kft235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 247] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
There are tens of thousands of man-made chemicals in the environment; the inherent safety of most of these chemicals is not known. Relevant biological platforms and new computational tools are needed to prioritize testing of chemicals with limited human health hazard information. We describe an experimental design for high-throughput characterization of multidimensional in vivo effects with the power to evaluate trends relating to commonly cited chemical predictors. We evaluated all 1060 unique U.S. EPA ToxCast phase 1 and 2 compounds using the embryonic zebrafish and found that 487 induced significant adverse biological responses. The utilization of 18 simultaneously measured endpoints means that the entire system serves as a robust biological sensor for chemical hazard. The experimental design enabled us to describe global patterns of variation across tested compounds, evaluate the concordance of the available in vitro and in vivo phase 1 data with this study, highlight specific mechanisms/value-added/novel biology related to notochord development, and demonstrate that the developmental zebrafish detects adverse responses that would be missed by less comprehensive testing strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Truong
- * Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, the Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory and the Environmental Health Sciences Center at Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97333
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Developmental exposure to valproic acid alters the expression of microRNAs involved in neurodevelopment in zebrafish. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2013; 40:46-58. [PMID: 24126255 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2013.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2013] [Revised: 09/19/2013] [Accepted: 10/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Congenital malformations are a prevalent cause of infant mortality in the United States and their induction has been linked to a variety of factors, including exposure to teratogens. However, the molecular mechanisms of teratogenicity are not fully understood. MicroRNAs are an important group of small, non-coding RNAs that regulate mRNA expression. MicroRNA roles in early embryonic development are well established, and their disruption during development can cause abnormalities. We hypothesized that developmental exposure to teratogens such as valproic acid alters microRNA expression profiles in developing embryos. Valproic acid is an anticonvulsant and mood-stabilizing drug used to treat epilepsy, bipolar disorder and migraines. To examine the effects of valproic acid on microRNA expression during development, we used zebrafish embryos as a model vertebrate developmental system. Zebrafish embryos were continuously exposed to valproic acid (1mM) or vehicle control (ethanol) starting from 4h post-fertilization (hpf) and sampled at 48 and 96hpf to determine the miRNA expression profiles prior to and after the onset of developmental defects. At 96hpf, 95% of the larvae showed skeletal deformities, abnormal swimming behavior, and pericardial effusion. Microarray expression profiling was done using Agilent zebrafish miRNA microarrays. Microarray results revealed changes in miRNA expression at both time points. Thirteen miRNAs were differentially expressed at 48hpf and 22 miRNAs were altered at 96hpf. Among them, six miRNAs (miR-16a, 18c, 122, 132, 457b, and 724) were common to both time points. Bioinformatic target prediction and examination of published literature revealed that these miRNAs target several genes involved in the normal functioning of the central nervous system. These results suggest that the teratogenic effects of valproic acid could involve altered miRNA expression.
Collapse
|
43
|
Ingebretson JJ, Masino MA. Quantification of locomotor activity in larval zebrafish: considerations for the design of high-throughput behavioral studies. Front Neural Circuits 2013; 7:109. [PMID: 23772207 PMCID: PMC3677137 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2013.00109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2013] [Accepted: 05/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
High-throughput behavioral studies using larval zebrafish often assess locomotor activity to determine the effects of experimental perturbations. However, the results reported by different groups are difficult to compare because there is not a standardized experimental paradigm or measure of locomotor activity. To address this, we investigated the effects that several factors, including the stage of larval development and the physical dimensions (depth and diameter) of the behavioral arena, have on the locomotor activity produced by larval zebrafish. We provide evidence for differences in locomotor activity between larvae at different stages and when recorded in wells of different depths, but not in wells of different diameters. We also show that the variability for most properties of locomotor activity is less for older than younger larvae, which is consistent with previous reports. Finally, we show that conflicting interpretations of activity level can occur when activity is assessed with a single measure of locomotor activity. Thus, we conclude that although a combination of factors should be considered when designing behavioral experiments, the use of older larvae in deep wells will reduce the variability of locomotor activity, and that multiple properties of locomotor activity should be measured to determine activity level.
Collapse
|
44
|
García-Cambero JP, Catalá M, Valcárcel Y. River waters induced neurotoxicity in an embryo-larval zebrafish model. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2012; 84:84-91. [PMID: 22906717 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2012.06.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2012] [Revised: 06/05/2012] [Accepted: 06/25/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Some investigations have revealed an increased release of psychoactive drugs into the aquatic environments near big cities. However, despite the alert generated by the presence of such neurotoxic compounds, there is a lack of studies evaluating the impact on living organisms. One solution consists in the development of bioassays able to address specific risks, such as neurotoxicity, but on the other hand suitable to assess complex matrices like river samples. The objective of this work was to assess surface water toxicity by means of a zebrafish embryo-larval combined toxicity assay, which is based on a variety of toxicological endpoints, especially those related to neurodevelopment. For such a purpose, we selected the Tagus River in which a previous monitoring study revealed the presence of psychoactive drugs. Results showed that most of the toxicological endpoints evaluated remained unaltered in the exposed embryos, except for the tail length that was larger in the exposed larvae, and the locomotor activity in the 6-day larvae, which was decreased in four groups of exposure (n=5 sampling points). In the absence of systemic toxicity, changes in larval locomotion are indicative of neurotoxicity. This result suggests that the Tagus River can convey neurotoxic compounds at levels that may represent an early and specific threat over the aquatic species of vertebrates, what can have dramatic consequences under the ecological point of view.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Pablo García-Cambero
- Toxicology Area, National Centre for Environmental Health, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Ctra Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km 2, 28220 Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Zimmer B, Lee G, Balmer NV, Meganathan K, Sachinidis A, Studer L, Leist M. Evaluation of developmental toxicants and signaling pathways in a functional test based on the migration of human neural crest cells. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2012; 120:1116-1122. [PMID: 22571897 PMCID: PMC3440079 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1104489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2011] [Accepted: 05/09/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Information on the potential developmental toxicity (DT) of the majority of chemicals is scarce, and test capacities for further animal-based testing are limited. Therefore, new approaches with higher throughput are required. A screening strategy based on the use of relevant human cell types has been proposed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and others. Because impaired neural crest (NC) function is one of the known causes for teratologic effects, testing of toxicant effects on NC cells is desirable for a DT test battery. OBJECTIVE We developed a robust and widely applicable human-relevant NC function assay that would allow for sensitive screening of environmental toxicants and defining toxicity pathways. METHODS We generated NC cells from human embryonic stem cells, and after establishing a migration assay of NC cells (MINC assay), we tested environmental toxicants as well as inhibitors of physiological signal transduction pathways. RESULTS Methylmercury (50 nM), valproic acid (> 10 µM), and lead-acetate [Pb(CH3CO2)4] (1 µM) affected the migration of NC cells more potently than migration of other cell types. The MINC assay correctly identified the NC toxicants triadimefon and triadimenol. Additionally, it showed different sensitivities to various organic and inorganic mercury compounds. Using the MINC assay and applying classic pharmacologic inhibitors and large-scale microarray gene expression profiling, we found several signaling pathways that are relevant for the migration of NC cells. CONCLUSIONS The MINC assay faithfully models human NC cell migration, and it reveals impairment of this function by developmental toxicants with good sensitivity and specificity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bastian Zimmer
- Doerenkamp-Zbinden Chair of In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
de Soysa TY, Ulrich A, Friedrich T, Pite D, Compton SL, Ok D, Bernardos RL, Downes GB, Hsieh S, Stein R, Lagdameo MC, Halvorsen K, Kesich LR, Barresi MJF. Macondo crude oil from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill disrupts specific developmental processes during zebrafish embryogenesis. BMC Biol 2012; 10:40. [PMID: 22559716 PMCID: PMC3364156 DOI: 10.1186/1741-7007-10-40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2012] [Accepted: 05/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Deepwater Horizon disaster was the largest marine oil spill in history, and total vertical exposure of oil to the water column suggests it could impact an enormous diversity of ecosystems. The most vulnerable organisms are those encountering these pollutants during their early life stages. Water-soluble components of crude oil and specific polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons have been shown to cause defects in cardiovascular and craniofacial development in a variety of teleost species, but the developmental origins of these defects have yet to be determined. We have adopted zebrafish, Danio rerio, as a model to test whether water accumulated fractions (WAF) of the Deepwater Horizon oil could impact specific embryonic developmental processes. While not a native species to the Gulf waters, the developmental biology of zebrafish has been well characterized and makes it a powerful model system to reveal the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind Macondo crude toxicity. Results WAF of Macondo crude oil sampled during the oil spill was used to treat zebrafish throughout embryonic and larval development. Our results indicate that the Macondo crude oil causes a variety of significant defects in zebrafish embryogenesis, but these defects have specific developmental origins. WAF treatments caused defects in craniofacial development and circulatory function similar to previous reports, but we extend these results to show they are likely derived from an earlier defect in neural crest cell development. Moreover, we demonstrate that exposure to WAFs causes a variety of novel deformations in specific developmental processes, including programmed cell death, locomotor behavior, sensory and motor axon pathfinding, somitogenesis and muscle patterning. Interestingly, the severity of cell death and muscle phenotypes decreased over several months of repeated analysis, which was correlated with a rapid drop-off in the aromatic and alkane hydrocarbon components of the oil. Conclusions Whether these teratogenic effects are unique to the oil from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill or generalizable for most crude oil types remains to be determined. This work establishes a model for further investigation into the molecular mechanisms behind crude oil mediated deformations. In addition, due to the high conservation of genetic and cellular processes between zebrafish and other vertebrates, our work also provides a platform for more focused assessment of the impact that the Deepwater Horizon oil spill has had on the early life stages of native fish species in the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.
Collapse
|