1
|
Abderrezak K, Chakib F, Iyad F, Kahina A, Lyece Y, Mohamed M, Mohamed C, Youcef T, Lounas B, Amel DD, Fadila M, Mohamed A. Phthalate exposure profiles during baby delivery and their association with reproductive hormone changes and newborn outcomes. CHEMOSPHERE 2025; 374:144208. [PMID: 39970759 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2025.144208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2024] [Revised: 12/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2025] [Indexed: 02/21/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phthalates are organic compounds and emerging pollutants of health concern. Exposure to phthalates may have an impact on hormone physiology, especially during pregnancy, as it represents a period of heightened vulnerability to disruptions for the newborn. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to identify perinatal exposure profiles to phthalates in pregnant women living in Algiers and to explore associations between umbilical cord blood levels of phthalates and reproductive hormone concentrations. The aim also extends to explore the link that could exist between potential sources and the exposure profiles to phthalates. METHODS This descriptive study was carried out on 154 couples of women-newborns. After gathering necessary information, umbilical cord blood samples were collected. Reproductive hormones were measured by electrochemiluminescence, while phthalate metabolites were detected using LC-MS/MS. RESULTS The results showed that MEHP, MEP, and MnBP were detected in 97.4%, 74.7%, and 53.9% of samples. Mean concentrations were 18.680, 11.805, and 7.151 ng/mL for MEHP, MEP, and MnBP, respectively. High concentrations of MEP and MEHP were associated with low umbilical cord levels of testosterone, progesterone, and estradiol. A positive and meaningful association between MnBP and LH levels was found as well. The results indicated that MEHP was associated with changes in the anogenital distance (AGD) in both male and female newborns, as positive significant correlation has been found between MEHP levels and female AGD as well as an inverse correlation between the same metabolite and male AGD. The evaluation of exposure sources revealed a significant association between the consumption of bottled water and levels of MnBP. CONCLUSIONS In this study, phthalates were associated with altered levels of reproductive hormones in umbilical cord plasma. These changes may have adverse effects on children development. Results also suggest that the consumption of bottled water may impact the newborns' endocrine integrity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khelfi Abderrezak
- University of Algiers, 1, 2 Didouche Mourad Street, Algiers, 16000, Algeria; National Center of Toxicology, Petit Staouali Street, Delly Brahim, Algiers, 16062, Algeria.
| | - Fesraoui Chakib
- University of Algiers, 1, 2 Didouche Mourad Street, Algiers, 16000, Algeria
| | - Fara Iyad
- University of Algiers, 1, 2 Didouche Mourad Street, Algiers, 16000, Algeria
| | - Aksas Kahina
- University of Algiers, 1, 2 Didouche Mourad Street, Algiers, 16000, Algeria; Central Laboratory, Bab-El-Oued University Hospital, Mohamed Lamine Debaghine Street, Algiers, 16009, Algeria
| | - Yargui Lyece
- University of Algiers, 1, 2 Didouche Mourad Street, Algiers, 16000, Algeria; Biochemistry Laboratory, Mustapha Bacha University Hospital, 1945 Pl. of May 1st, Sidi M'Hamed Street, Algiers, 16000, Algeria
| | - Makrelouf Mohamed
- University of Algiers, 1, 2 Didouche Mourad Street, Algiers, 16000, Algeria; Central Laboratory, Bab-El-Oued University Hospital, Mohamed Lamine Debaghine Street, Algiers, 16009, Algeria
| | - Cherifi Mohamed
- University of Algiers, 1, 2 Didouche Mourad Street, Algiers, 16000, Algeria; Central Laboratory, Ibn Ziri Hospital, Bainem, Algiers, 16000, Algeria
| | - Tayebi Youcef
- University of Blida, BP 270, Blida, 09000, Algeria; Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Douera University Hospital, Halim Brothers Street, Douera, Algiers, 16000, Algeria
| | - Benghanem Lounas
- University of Algiers, 1, 2 Didouche Mourad Street, Algiers, 16000, Algeria; Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Mustapha Bacha University Hospital, 1945 Pl. of May 1st, Sidi M'Hamed Street, Algiers, 16000, Algeria
| | - Dammene-Debbih Amel
- University of Algiers, 1, 2 Didouche Mourad Street, Algiers, 16000, Algeria; Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Ibn Ziri Hospital, Bainem, 16000, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Madaci Fadila
- University of Algiers, 1, 2 Didouche Mourad Street, Algiers, 16000, Algeria; Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Bab-El-Oued University Hospital, Mohamed Lamine Debaghine Street, Algiers, 16009, Algeria
| | - Azzouz Mohamed
- University of Algiers, 1, 2 Didouche Mourad Street, Algiers, 16000, Algeria
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Perez PA, Silva TY, Toledo J, Gomá L, De Paul AL, Quintar AA, Gutiérrez S. Exposure to environmentally relevant levels of DEHP during development modifies the distribution and expression patterns of androgen receptors in the anterior pituitary in a sex-specific manner. CHEMOSPHERE 2025; 372:144145. [PMID: 39862653 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2025.144145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2024] [Revised: 12/27/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2025] [Indexed: 01/27/2025]
Abstract
DEHP is a prevalent phthalate with wide industrial applications and well-documented endocrine-disrupting effects, including the potential disruption of AR signaling in different tissues. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of gestational and lactational exposure to environmentally relevant DEHP concentrations on AR expression and subcellular localization in the pituitary gland, the master endocrine organ, with a focus on gonadotroph cells by in vivo and in vitro approaches. After DEHP exposure during gestation and lactation, a sex-specific modulation was detected in AR-positive pituitary cells and AR protein expression as assessed through flow cytometry and western blot. In male rats, DEHP increased AR-positive cells at postnatal day (PND) 21, with this effect persisting at PND75. In females, DEHP elevated AR-expressing cells at PND21, but this increase was followed by a reduction in adulthood. Furthermore, DEHP altered AR subcellular localization by reducing nuclear AR expression and increasing its cytoplasmic expression in gonadotrophs, and modified LH content in secretory granules, indicating enhanced secretory activity. In primary pituitary cell cultures DEHP exposure regulated AR subcellular localization by decreasing nuclear AR levels, and disrupting the testosterone effect on AR cytoplasmic-nuclear shuttling in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, our study shows alteration of pituitary AR expression and subcellular localization following gestational and lactational DEHP exposure in a sex specific manner, and indicates that DEHP retains AR in the cytoplasm, interfering with testosterone activity in pituitary cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pablo A Perez
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de La Salud (INICSA), Córdoba, Argentina; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Centro de Microscopía Electrónica. Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Tamara Y Silva
- Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Centro de Microscopía Electrónica. Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Jonathan Toledo
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de La Salud (INICSA), Córdoba, Argentina; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Centro de Microscopía Electrónica. Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Lourdes Gomá
- Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Centro de Microscopía Electrónica. Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Ana L De Paul
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de La Salud (INICSA), Córdoba, Argentina; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Centro de Microscopía Electrónica. Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Amado A Quintar
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de La Salud (INICSA), Córdoba, Argentina; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Centro de Microscopía Electrónica. Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Silvina Gutiérrez
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de La Salud (INICSA), Córdoba, Argentina; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Centro de Microscopía Electrónica. Córdoba, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lea I, Feifarek D, Mihalchik A, Heintz M, Haws L, Nyambego H, Goyak K, Palermo C, Borghoff S. Evaluation of the endocrine disrupting potential of Di-isodecyl phthalate. Curr Res Toxicol 2025; 8:100221. [PMID: 40041033 PMCID: PMC11879679 DOI: 10.1016/j.crtox.2025.100221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2024] [Revised: 01/14/2025] [Accepted: 01/23/2025] [Indexed: 03/06/2025] Open
Abstract
Low molecular weight ortho-phthalates have been implicated in perturbing androgen pathways when administered during the masculinization programming window. Di-isodecyl phthalate (DIDP) is a high molecular weight phthalate and as a high production volume chemical, its ability to disrupt endocrine pathways is important to understand its potential hazard. Both DIDP (and its metabolites) were evaluated to determine the potential to perturb endocrine pathways through a weight of evidence (WoE) assessment in accordance with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)/European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) Endocrine Disruptor Guidance (2018). A literature review was performed of toxicological data for DIDP related to estrogen, androgen, thyroid, or steroidogenesis pathways. Literature searches returned 41 relevant articles from which data were extracted and assessed in conjunction with data from 105 high-throughput assays. Because some of the in vitro assays lack metabolic capabilities, an in silico assessment of estrogen (E), androgen (A), thyroid (T) or steroidogenesis (S) activity was conducted. Based on the available evidence for the T pathway, DIDP did not elicit adverse thyroid outcomes in vivo. When considering the T mechanistic data, there was evidence that DIDP induced the liver pregnane X receptor (PXR) and some indication that DIDP increased iodide uptake in the thyroid. As there were no studies evaluating thyroid hormone levels in vivo, a data gap was identified because per the ECHA/EFSA guidance, the lack of this information prevents drawing a conclusion on the T pathway. However, the E, A and S pathways were sufficiently assessed to conclude a limited or lack of E, A or S related apical outcomes in in vivo studies; there was also a lack of endocrine activity in in vitro or in vivo mechanistic studies. These results suggest that DIDP does not meet the ECHA/EFSA criteria for an endocrine disruptor, therefore DIDP is unlikely to disrupt the androgen pathway during development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I.A. Lea
- ToxStrategies LLC, 31 College Place Suite B118, Asheville, NC 28801, USA
| | - D. Feifarek
- ToxStrategies LLC, 31 College Place Suite B118, Asheville, NC 28801, USA
| | - A. Mihalchik
- ToxStrategies LLC, 31 College Place Suite B118, Asheville, NC 28801, USA
| | - M. Heintz
- ToxStrategies LLC, 31 College Place Suite B118, Asheville, NC 28801, USA
| | - L. Haws
- ToxStrategies LLC, 31 College Place Suite B118, Asheville, NC 28801, USA
| | - H. Nyambego
- ExxonMobil Biomedical Sciences, Inc., Health and Environmental Sciences Division, Annandale, NJ, USA
| | - K. Goyak
- ExxonMobil Biomedical Sciences, Inc., Health and Environmental Sciences Division, Annandale, NJ, USA
| | - C. Palermo
- ExxonMobil Biomedical Sciences, Inc., Health and Environmental Sciences Division, Annandale, NJ, USA
| | - S.J. Borghoff
- ToxStrategies LLC, 31 College Place Suite B118, Asheville, NC 28801, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Rogers J, Buerger A, Heintz M, Palermo C, Haws L, Lea I. Evaluation of a hypothesized Sertoli cell-based adverse outcome pathway for effects of diisononyl phthalate on the developing testis. Curr Res Toxicol 2025; 8:100219. [PMID: 40123861 PMCID: PMC11930220 DOI: 10.1016/j.crtox.2025.100219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2024] [Revised: 01/21/2025] [Accepted: 01/23/2025] [Indexed: 03/25/2025] Open
Abstract
Exposure of pregnant rats to some phthalates during the masculinization programming window (MPW) can lower fetal testis testosterone production and adversely affect development of the fetal male reproductive tract. Some of the effects in rats are androgen-dependent, while others also occur in mice without lower testosterone production. An adverse outcome pathway (AOP) network has been proposed for these developmental effects that includes both androgen-dependent and androgen-independent pathways, the latter of which includes a short list of putative molecular initiating events (MIEs) including peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR) activation, and effects on Sertoli cells in the developing testes as early key events (KEs) (PMID 34314370). Data from peer-reviewed literature, publicly cited toxicology reports, and EPA's Toxicity Forecaster (ToxCast) were evaluated in the context of this hypothesized Sertoli cell-based AOP and exposure to diisononyl phthalate (DINP). Each of the fifteen identified studies underwent a risk of bias (RoB) assessment, which revealed a high risk of bias for all but one study endpoint. In vitro evidence in kidney, liver, and fibroblast-like cell lines indicates that the DINP metabolites mono-isononyl phthalate (MINP) and mono-hydroxyisononyl phthalate (MHINP) activate PPARα/γ and that mouse PPARα/γ are more sensitive than human PPARα/γ. However, DINP did not activate PPARα-related genes in rat fetal testes at high maternal dosages (PMID 22112501), and it remains unknown whether PPARs are expressed in fetal Sertoli cells. Overall, there is insufficient evidence to evaluate whether PPAR activation in the developing male reproductive tract is causally linked to the KEs in the hypothesized AOP. Regarding the KEs, no in vivo studies were identified that examined the effects of DINP on Sertoli cell proliferation or cytoskeleton; a single in vitro study found no effect of DINP on Sertoli cell proliferation. There was limited and conflicting evidence for the effects of DINP on tubulogenesis, but strong in vivo evidence for increased multinucleated germ (MNG) cells. No evidence was found concerning germ cell apoptosis. For the adverse outcomes (AOs), there was limited in vivo evidence for testicular dysgenesis following altered tubulogenesis, and impaired spermatogenesis following increased MNGs. There was strong evidence against reduced fertility, but this is not a sensitive endpoint in rats given their robust sperm production and excess capacity. In conclusion, following in utero DINP exposure, while PPAR activation (MIE) is plausible, linkage to effects on Sertoli cells and downstream AOPs is lacking. The sparse evidence currently available is insufficient to support the applicability of the hypothesized Sertoli cell-based AOP to DINP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J.M. Rogers
- ToxStrategies LLC, 31 College Place Suite B118, Asheville, NC 28801, United States
| | - A.N. Buerger
- ToxStrategies LLC, 31 College Place Suite B118, Asheville, NC 28801, United States
| | - M.M. Heintz
- ToxStrategies LLC, 31 College Place Suite B118, Asheville, NC 28801, United States
| | - C.M. Palermo
- ExxonMobil Biomedical Sciences, Inc., Health and Environmental Sciences Division, Annandale, NJ, United States
| | - L.C. Haws
- ToxStrategies LLC, 31 College Place Suite B118, Asheville, NC 28801, United States
| | - I.A. Lea
- ToxStrategies LLC, 31 College Place Suite B118, Asheville, NC 28801, United States
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Gan H, Lu M, Tong J, Li H, Zhou Q, Han F, Wang X, Yan S, Huang K, Wang Q, Wu X, Zhu B, Gao H, Tao F. Sex- and trimester-specific impact of gestational co-exposure to organophosphate esters and phthalates on insulin action among preschoolers: Findings from the Ma'anshan birth cohort. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2025; 196:109287. [PMID: 39848094 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2025.109287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2024] [Revised: 01/07/2025] [Accepted: 01/15/2025] [Indexed: 01/25/2025]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Prenatal exposure to organophosphate esters (OPEs) and phthalic acid esters (PAEs) is ubiquitous among pregnant individuals. However, research exploring the relationship between prenatal co-exposure to OPEs and PAEs and childhood insulin function remains limited. METHODS In this study, utilizing data from 2,246 maternal-fetal dyads in the Ma'anshan Birth Cohort, associations between co-exposure to OPEs and PAEs and insulin action were analyzed. Repeated measures of tris (2-chloroethyl) phosphate, six OPE metabolites, and seven PAE metabolites were collected from maternal urine. Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and the insulin action index (IAI) served as outcome measures. After adjusting for potential confounders, the effects of repeated exposure on insulin action were evaluated using generalized estimating equations, while mixture effects were assessed through BayesianKernel Machine Regression and Quantile-Based G-Computation. RESULTS The average age of the children at the time of the study was 5.33 years. Repeated measures analysis revealed that prenatal exposure to MEP was positively associated with increased HOMA-IR (β, 0.027; 95 % CI: 0.002, 0.053), while IAI was inversely correlated with rising MEP levels (β, 0.025; 95 % CI: -0.046, -0.004) and MEHHP exposure (β, -0.128; 95 % CI: -0.218, -0.037). Mixed exposure modeling further indicated that co-exposure to OPEs and PAEs was positively linked to HOMA-IR (β, 0.058; 95 % CI: 0.001, 0.114) and negatively correlated with IAI (β, -0.054; 95 % CI: -0.097, -0.010), with stronger effects observed during the second trimester. Notably, the association was more pronounced in female children compared to males. CONCLUSIONS This study provides the first epidemiological evidence highlighting the pregnancy- and sex-specific links between prenatal co-exposure to OPEs and PAEs and childhood insulin action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong Gan
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032,Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Environment and Population Health across the Life Course, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China
| | - Mengjuan Lu
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032,Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Environment and Population Health across the Life Course, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China
| | - Juan Tong
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032,Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Environment and Population Health across the Life Course, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China
| | - Huijuan Li
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032,Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Environment and Population Health across the Life Course, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China
| | - Qiong Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032,Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Environment and Population Health across the Life Course, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China
| | - Feifei Han
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032,Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Environment and Population Health across the Life Course, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China
| | - Xiaorui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032,Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Environment and Population Health across the Life Course, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China
| | - Shuangqin Yan
- Ma'anshan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Ma'anshan 243011, Anhui, China
| | - Kun Huang
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032,Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Environment and Population Health across the Life Course, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China
| | - Qunan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032,Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Environment and Population Health across the Life Course, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China
| | - Xiaoyan Wu
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032,Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Environment and Population Health across the Life Course, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China
| | - Beibei Zhu
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032,Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Environment and Population Health across the Life Course, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China.
| | - Hui Gao
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022 Anhui, China.
| | - Fangbiao Tao
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032,Anhui, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Environment and Population Health across the Life Course, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032 Anhui, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Celik MN, Yesildemir O. Endocrine Disruptors in Child Obesity and Related Disorders: Early Critical Windows of Exposure. Curr Nutr Rep 2025; 14:14. [PMID: 39775248 PMCID: PMC11706864 DOI: 10.1007/s13668-024-00604-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/11/2025]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Endocrine disruptors (EDs) can mimic or interfere with hormones in the body, leading to non-communicable diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Susceptibility to EDs increases during prenatal and postnatal life, a critical time window. This review aims to summarize the latest evidence on the relation of early life exposure to some EDs with obesity and the other metabolic disorders. RECENT FINDINGS: There is increasing evidence that early life exposure to EDs may impair adipogenesis by increasing the number and size of adipocytes, thereby increasing susceptibility to obesity in childhood. It is stated that exposure to EDs during the prenatal and postnatal period may raise the risk of type 2 diabetes in adulthood by disrupting glucose, lipid, and insulin homeostasis in the offspring. They can also accelerate the development of type 1 diabetes through various mechanisms, like immunomodulation, gut microbiota, and vitamin D pathways. There is a growing understanding that ED exposure during critical stages of life could play an important role in the development of obesity and metabolic disorders. We suggest setting national goals, global standards, and policies to reduce environmental exposure to pregnant and lactating women, and babies, considered sensitive populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mensure Nur Celik
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey.
| | - Ozge Yesildemir
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Holmer ML, Zilliacus J, Draskau MK, Hlisníková H, Beronius A, Svingen T. Methodology for developing data-rich Key Event Relationships for Adverse Outcome Pathways exemplified by linking decreased androgen receptor activity with decreased anogenital distance. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 128:108662. [PMID: 38986849 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2024.108662] [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: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
The Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) framework has gained widespread acceptance in toxicological disciplines as a tool for aiding chemical hazard assessment. Despite increased activity in AOP development, progress towards a high volume of fully endorsed AOPs has been slow, partly due to the challenging task of constructing complete AOPs according to the AOP Developer's Handbook. To facilitate greater uptake of new knowledge units onto the open-source AOP-wiki platform, a pragmatic approach was recently proposed. This approach involves considering Key Event Relationships (KERs) for individual development through systematic approaches, as they represent essential units of knowledge from which causality can be inferred; from low complexity test data to adverse outcomes in intact organisms. However, more broadly adopted harmonized methodologies for KER development would be desirable. Using the AOP Developer's Handbook as a guide, a KER linking 'decreased androgen receptor (AR) activity' with 'reduced anogenital distance (AGD)' was developed to demonstrate a methodology applicable for future developments of KERs requiring systematic literature retrieval approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie L Holmer
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby DK-2800, Denmark.
| | - Johanna Zilliacus
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm SE-171 77, Sweden
| | - Monica K Draskau
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Henrieta Hlisníková
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm SE-171 77, Sweden
| | - Anna Beronius
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm SE-171 77, Sweden
| | - Terje Svingen
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby DK-2800, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Almamoun R, Pierozan P, Karlsson O. Mechanistic screening of reproductive toxicity in a novel 3D testicular co-culture model shows significant impairments following exposure to low-dibutyl phthalate concentrations. Arch Toxicol 2024; 98:2695-2709. [PMID: 38769170 PMCID: PMC11272729 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03767-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
To improve the mechanistic screening of reproductive toxicants in chemical-risk assessment and drug development, we have developed a three-dimensional (3D) heterogenous testicular co-culture model from neonatal mice. Di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP), an environmental contaminant that can affect reproductive health negatively, was used as a model compound to illustrate the utility of the in vitro model. The cells were treated with DBP (1 nM to 100 µM) for 7 days. Automated high-content imaging confirmed the presence of cell-specific markers of Leydig cells (CYP11A1 +), Sertoli cells (SOX9 +), and germ cells (DAZL +). Steroidogenic activity of Leydig cells was demonstrated by analyzing testosterone levels in the culture medium. DBP induced a concentration-dependent reduction in testosterone levels and decreased the number of Leydig cells compared to vehicle control. The levels of steroidogenic regulator StAR and the steroidogenic enzyme CYP11A1 were decreased already at the lowest DBP concentration (1 nM), demonstrating upstream effects in the testosterone biosynthesis pathway. Furthermore, exposure to 10 nM DBP decreased the levels of the germ cell-specific RNA binding protein DAZL, central for the spermatogenesis. The 3D model also captured the development of the Sertoli cell junction proteins, N-cadherin and Zonula occludens protein 1 (ZO-1), critical for the blood-testis barrier. However, DBP exposure did not significantly alter the cadherin and ZO-1 levels. Altogether, this 3D in vitro system models testicular cellular signaling and function, making it a powerful tool for mechanistic screening of developmental testicular toxicity. This can open a new avenue for high throughput screening of chemically-induced reproductive toxicity during sensitive developmental phases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Radwa Almamoun
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, 11418, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Paula Pierozan
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, 11418, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Oskar Karlsson
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, 11418, Stockholm, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Liu Z, Zhang Y, Jia X, Hoskins TD, Lu L, Han Y, Zhang X, Lin H, Shen L, Feng Y, Zheng Y, Hu C, Zhang H. Microcystin-LR Induces Estrogenic Effects at Environmentally Relevant Concentration in Black-Spotted Pond Frogs ( Pelophylax nigromaculatus): In Situ, In Vivo, In Vitro, and In Silico Investigations. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:9559-9569. [PMID: 38710655 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c01322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Harmful cyanobacterial blooms are frequent and intense worldwide, creating hazards for aquatic biodiversity. The potential estrogen-like effect of Microcystin-LR (MC-LR) is a growing concern. In this study, we assessed the estrogenic potency of MC-LR in black-spotted frogs through combined field and laboratory approaches. In 13 bloom areas of Zhejiang province, China, the MC-LR concentrations in water ranged from 0.87 to 8.77 μg/L and were correlated with sex hormone profiles in frogs, suggesting possible estrogenic activity of MC-LR. Tadpoles exposed to 1 μg/L, an environmentally relevant concentration, displayed a female-biased sex ratio relative to controls. Transcriptomic results revealed that MC-LR induces numerous and complex effects on gene expression across multiple endocrine axes. In addition, exposure of male adults significantly increased the estradiol (E2)/testosterone (T) ratio by 3.5-fold relative to controls. Downregulation of genes related to male reproductive endocrine function was also identified. We also showed how MC-LR enhances the expression of specific estrogen receptor (ER) proteins, which induce estrogenic effects by activating the ER pathway and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. In aggregate, our results reveal multiple lines of evidence demonstrating that, for amphibians, MC-LR is an estrogenic endocrine disruptor at environmentally relevant concentrations. The data presented here support the need for a shift in the MC-LR risk assessment. While hepatoxicity has historically been the focus of MC-LR risk assessments, our data clearly demonstrate that estrogenicity is a major mode of toxicity at environmental levels and that estrogenic effects should be considered for risk assessments on MC-LR going forward.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiquan Liu
- School of Engineering, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Yinan Zhang
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Xiuying Jia
- Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310015, China
| | - Tyler D Hoskins
- Department of Forestry & Natural Resources, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| | - Liping Lu
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Yu Han
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Xiaofang Zhang
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Huikang Lin
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Lilai Shen
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Yixuan Feng
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Yueyue Zheng
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Chao Hu
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| | - Hangjun Zhang
- School of Engineering, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
- Hangzhou International Urbanology Research Center, Hangzhou 311121, China
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311121, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Traore K, Zirkin B. Use of in vitro methodology to investigate phthalate effects on the differentiation of seminiferous tubule-associated stem cells to form Leydig cells and on the Leydig cells derived from the stem cells. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2024; 6:1352294. [PMID: 38362108 PMCID: PMC10867263 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2024.1352294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Leydig cells isolated from the testis are able to sustain high levels of testosterone production in vitro, but only for up to 3 days. Such cells are valuable for addressing the acute effects of chemicals on steroidogenic function, but not for repeated or chronic effects. Methodology is now available by which adult Leydig cells can be derived in vitro from seminiferous tubule-associated stem cells. In contrast to isolated Leydig cells, the Leydig cells derived in this way can synthesize and secrete high levels of testosterone for months. Herein, we asked whether this system might be used to address the effect of mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) exposure on the formation of Leydig cells from tubule-associated stem cells, and on the Leydig cells after their formation. Methods: Adult Brown Norway rats received an intraperitoneal injection of ethane dimethanesulfonate (EDS) to eliminate the existing Leydig cells. Seminiferous tubules then were isolated and cultured in medium containing Insulin-Transferrin- Selenium (ITS), Smoothened Agonist (SAG), and luteinizing hormone (LH). Results: Culture of the tubules for 8 weeks resulted in the formation of cells on the surfaces of the tubules that stained for CYP11A1 and STAR and produced high levels of testosterone. When the tubules were cultured in medium containing increasing concentrations of MEHP, concentration-dependent effects on Leydig cell formation occurred. To determine the effect of MEHP on newly produced Leydig cells, tubules were cultured for 8 weeks in the absence of MEHP, resulting in the formation of adult Leydig cells, and then in medium containing increasing concentrations of MEHP. Concentration-dependent decreases in testosterone production by the adult Leydig cells were seen, and these decreases proved to be reversible. Discussion: The use of this new system should make it possible to determine the mechanisms by which acute, repeated, or chronic exposures to increasing concentrations of MEHP and/or exposure to other chemicals affect the formation of Leydig cells from stem cells, as well as the steroidogenic function of adult Leydig cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kassim Traore
- Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine, Campbell University, Lillington, NC, United States
- Duquesne University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Barry Zirkin
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Merrill SM, Letourneau N, Giesbrecht GF, Edwards K, MacIsaac JL, Martin JW, MacDonald AM, Kinniburgh DW, Kobor MS, Dewey D, England-Mason G, The APrON Study Team. Sex-Specific Associations between Prenatal Exposure to Di(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate, Epigenetic Age Acceleration, and Susceptibility to Early Childhood Upper Respiratory Infections. EPIGENOMES 2024; 8:3. [PMID: 38390895 PMCID: PMC10885049 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes8010003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a common plasticizer that can affect immune system development and susceptibility to infection. Aging processes (measured as epigenetic age acceleration (EAA)) may mediate the immune-related effects of prenatal exposure to DEHP. This study's objective was to examine associations between prenatal DEHP exposure, EAA at three months of age, and the number of upper respiratory infections (URIs) from 12 to 18 months of age using a sample of 69 maternal-child pairs from a Canadian pregnancy cohort. Blood DNA methylation data were generated using the Infinium HumanMethylation450 BeadChip; EAA was estimated using Horvath's pan-tissue clock. Robust regressions examined overall and sex-specific associations. Higher prenatal DEHP exposure (B = 6.52, 95% CI = 1.22, 11.81) and increased EAA (B = 2.98, 95% CI = 1.64, 4.32) independently predicted more URIs. In sex-specific analyses, some similar effects were noted for boys, and EAA mediated the association between prenatal DEHP exposure and URIs. In girls, higher prenatal DEHP exposure was associated with decreased EAA, and no mediation was noted. Higher prenatal DEHP exposure may be associated with increased susceptibility to early childhood URIs, particularly in boys, and aging biomarkers such as EAA may be a biological mechanism. Larger cohort studies examining the potential developmental immunotoxicity of phthalates are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M Merrill
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, The Warren Alpert Medical School at Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Department of Medical Genetics, British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Vancouver, BC V6H 0B3, Canada
| | - Nicole Letourneau
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
- Owerko Centre, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Gerald F Giesbrecht
- Department of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
- Owerko Centre, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Karlie Edwards
- Department of Medical Genetics, British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Vancouver, BC V6H 0B3, Canada
| | - Julia L MacIsaac
- Department of Medical Genetics, British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Vancouver, BC V6H 0B3, Canada
| | - Jonathan W Martin
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Amy M MacDonald
- Alberta Centre for Toxicology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - David W Kinniburgh
- Alberta Centre for Toxicology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Michael S Kobor
- Department of Medical Genetics, British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Vancouver, BC V6H 0B3, Canada
- Program in Child and Brain Development, Canadian Institute for Advanced Research, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada
| | - Deborah Dewey
- Department of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
- Owerko Centre, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Gillian England-Mason
- Department of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
- Owerko Centre, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - The APrON Study Team
- University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
- University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Robles-Matos N, Radaelli E, Simmons RA, Bartolomei MS. Preconception and developmental DEHP exposure alter liver metabolism in a sex-dependent manner in adult mouse offspring. Toxicology 2023; 499:153640. [PMID: 37806616 PMCID: PMC10842112 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2023.153640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Environmental exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) during critical periods of development is associated with an increased risk of metabolic diseases, including hepatic steatosis and obesity. Di-2-ethylhexyl-phthalate (DEHP) is an EDC strongly associated with these metabolic abnormalities. DEHP developmental windows of susceptibility are unknown yet have important public health implications. The purpose of this study was to identify these windows of susceptibility and determine whether developmental DEHP exposure alters hepatic metabolism later in life. Dams were exposed to control or feed containing human exposure relevant doses of DEHP (50 μg/kg BW/d) and high dose DEHP (10 mg/kg BW/d) from preconception until weaning or only exposed to DEHP during preconception. Post-weaning, all offspring were fed a control diet throughout adulthood. Using the Metabolon Untargeted Metabolomics platform, we identified 148 significant metabolites in female adult livers that were altered by preconception-gestation-lactation DEHP exposure. We found a significant increase in the levels of acylcarnitines, diacylglycerols, sphingolipids, glutathione, purines, and pyrimidines in DEHP-exposed female livers compared to controls. These changes in fatty acid oxidation and oxidative stress-related metabolites were correlated with hepatic changes including microvesicular steatosis, hepatocyte swelling, inflammation. In contrast to females, we observed fewer metabolic alterations in male offspring, which were uniquely found in preconception-only low dose DEHP exposure group. Although we found that preconception-gestational-lactation exposure causes the most liver pathology, we surprisingly found preconception exposure linked to an abnormal liver metabolome. We also found that two doses exhibited non-monotonic DEHP-induced changes in the liver. Collectively, these findings suggest that metabolic changes in the adult liver of offspring exposed periconceptionally to DHEP depends on the timing of exposure, dose, and sex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Robles-Matos
- Epigenetics Institute, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Enrico Radaelli
- Comparative Pathology Core, Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Rebecca A Simmons
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Marisa S Bartolomei
- Epigenetics Institute, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Center of Excellence in Environmental Toxicology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhang Y, Yang Y, Tao Y, Guo X, Cui Y, Li Z. Phthalates (PAEs) and reproductive toxicity: Hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis aspects. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 459:132182. [PMID: 37557049 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Phthalates (PAEs) are widely used for their excellent ability to improve plastic products. As an essential endocrine axis that regulates the reproductive system, whether dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis is involved in reproductive toxicity mediated by environmental endocrine disruptors PAEs has become a hot topic of widespread concern. This study systematically reviewed the adverse effects of multiple PAEs on the HPG axis in different models and objectively discussed the possible underlying mechanisms. The abnormal release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone and gonadotropin, dysfunction of sex hormone receptors and steroid hormone synthesis, and general damage, including cell proliferation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy have been confirmed to be involved in this process. Although it is widely established that PAEs induce HPG axis dysfunction, the specific mechanisms involved remain unclear. From a systematic review of relevant publications, it appears that the abnormal expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated, aryl hydrocarbon, and insulin receptors mediated by PAEs is key upstream event that induces these adverse outcomes; however, this inference needs to be further verified. Overall, this study aimed to provide reliable potential biomarkers for future environmental risk assessment and epidemiological investigation of PAEs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- School of Resources and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China.
| | - Yang Yang
- School of Resources and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Yue Tao
- School of Resources and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Xiangyong Guo
- Fuyu County Agricultural Technology Extension Center, Qiqihar 161200, PR China
| | - Yunhe Cui
- School of Resources and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Zixu Li
- School of Resources and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Munk Andreasen S, Frederiksen H, Bilenberg N, Andersson AM, Juul A, Kyhl HB, Kold Jensen T. Maternal concentrations of phthalates and Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD-) related symptoms in children aged 2 to 4 years from Odense child cohort. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 180:108244. [PMID: 37797478 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.108244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phthalates are endocrine disrupting chemicals used in everyday consumer products. Several epidemiological studies have examined the association between prenatal phthalate concentration and Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in offspring, but the findings have been inconclusive. OBJECTIVES To investigate the association between maternal urinary concentrations of phthalate metabolites during pregnancy and ADHD related symptoms in children at 2 to 4 years in a large prospective cohort. METHODS In the Odense Child Cohort from Denmark were women recruited in early pregnancy from 2010 to 2012. Phthalate concentrations were measured in urine samples collected in 3rd trimester and separated into low and high weight phthalates. Parents filled in the Child Behavior Checklist for ages 1.5 to 5 years (CBCL/1½-5), including a 6-item ADHD symptom scale at children aged 2 to 4 years. Data were analysed by use of adjusted negative binomial regression. RESULTS A total of 658 mother-child pairs were included. Urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations were generally low compared to previous cohorts. A doubling in maternal concentration of the low-weighted phthalate metabolite MCPP was significantly associated with lower ADHD symptoms score in children (IRR: 0.95 (95 % CI 0.91-0.98)), strongest in girls (IRR: 0.92 (0.87-0.98)). Sex differences were observed. High maternal phthalate metabolite concentrations were associated with lower ADHD symptom score in girls, significant trends across tertile of MCPP and MnBP (p = 0.018, p = 0.038, respectively). In boys, maternal concentrations of high-molecular-weight phthalates (MBzP, ∑DiNP and ∑DEHP) were associated with an almost significantly higher ADHD symptom score (IRR for a doubling in concentration: 1.04 (95 % CI: 0.99-1.10), IRR: 1.05 (95 % CI: 0.97-1.13), IRR: 1.04 (95 % CI: 0.99-1.10), respectively). CONCLUSION Maternal concentration of the low-weighted phthalate metabolite MCPP was significantly associated with a lower ADHD symptom score in children, strongest in girls. Maternal concentrations of high-molecular-weight phthalates were associated with non-significant increase in ADHD symptom score in boys.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Munk Andreasen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Environmental Medicine, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Hanne Frederiksen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Niels Bilenberg
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Odense, Mental Health Services in Region of Southern Denmark, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Anna-Maria Andersson
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henriette Boye Kyhl
- Hans Christian Andersen Children's Hospital, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; OPEN Patient data Explorative Network, Odense, Denmark
| | - Tina Kold Jensen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Environmental Medicine, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Hans Christian Andersen Children's Hospital, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; OPEN Patient data Explorative Network, Odense, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Lærkeholm Müller M, Busch AS, Ljubicic ML, Upners EN, Fischer MB, Hagen CP, Albrethsen J, Frederiksen H, Juul A, Andersson AM. Urinary concentration of phthalates and bisphenol A during minipuberty is associated with reproductive hormone concentrations in infant boys. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2023; 250:114166. [PMID: 37058994 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2023.114166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The transient postnatal activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal hormone axis is termed minipuberty and considered an important developmental period, which is highly sensitive to endocrine disruption. Here, we explore exposure-outcome associations during minipuberty between concentrations of potentially endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in urine of infant boys and their serum reproductive hormone concentrations. METHODS In total, 36 boys participating in the COPENHAGEN Minipuberty Study had data available for both urine biomarkers of target endocrine disrupting chemicals and reproductive hormones in serum from samples collected on the same day. Serum concentrations of reproductive hormones were measured by immunoassays or by LC-MS/MS. Urinary concentrations of metabolites of 39 non-persisting chemicals, including phthalates and phenolic compounds, were measured by LC-MS/MS. Nineteen chemicals had concentrations above the limit of detection in ≥50% of children and were included in data analysis. Associations of urinary phthalate metabolite and phenol concentrations (in tertiles) with hormone outcomes (age- and sex-specific SD-scores) were analysed by linear regression. Primarily, we focused on the EU regulated phthalates; butylbenzyl phthalate (BBzP), di-iso-butyl phthalate (DiBP), di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP), and di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) as well as bisphenol A (BPA). Urinary metabolites of DiBP, DnBP and DEHP were summed and expressed as ∑DiBPm, ∑DnBPm and ∑DEHPm. RESULTS Compared to boys in the lowest ∑DnBPm tertile, urinary concentration of ∑DnBPm was associated with concurrent higher luteinizing hormone (LH) and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) SD-scores as well as lower testosterone/LH ratio in boys in the middle ∑DnBPm tertile (estimates (CI 95%) 0.79 (0.04; 1.54), 0.91 (0.13; 1.68), and -0.88 (-1.58;-0.19), respectively). Further, higher insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) SD-scores and lower DHEAS SD-score in boys in the highest ∑DnBPm tertile (0.91 (0.12; 1.70) and -0.85 (-1.51;-0.18), respectively) were observed. In addition, boys in the middle and highest ∑DEHPm tertile had higher LH (1.07 (0.35; 1.79) and 0.71 (-0.01; 1.43), respectively) and in the highest ∑DEHPm tertile also higher AMH (0.85 (0.10; 1.61)) concentration SD-scores, respectively. Boys in the highest BPA tertile had significantly higher AMH and lower DHEAS concentration compared to boys in the lowest BPA tertile (1.28 (0.54; 2.02) and -0.73 (-1.45; -0.01)), respectively. DISCUSSION Our findings indicate that exposure to chemicals with known or suspected endocrine disrupting potential, especially the EU-regulated DnBP, DEHP and BPA, may modify male reproductive hormone concentrations in infant boys suggesting that minipuberty is a critical window sensitive to endocrine disruption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matilde Lærkeholm Müller
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; International Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Alexander Siegfried Busch
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; International Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; University of Münster, Department of General Pediatrics, Münster, Germany
| | - Marie Lindhardt Ljubicic
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; International Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Emmie N Upners
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; International Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Margit B Fischer
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; International Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Casper P Hagen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; International Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jakob Albrethsen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; International Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hanne Frederiksen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; International Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; International Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna-Maria Andersson
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; International Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Etzel TM, Kuiper JR, Wang X, Mueller NT, Calafat AM, Cecil KM, Chen A, Lanphear BP, Yolton K, Kalkwarf HJ, Braun JM, Buckley JP. Associations of early life phthalate exposures with adolescent lipid levels and insulin resistance: The HOME Study. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2023; 248:114102. [PMID: 36527833 PMCID: PMC9898157 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2022.114102] [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: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early-life phthalate exposures may disrupt metabolic processes; however few prospective studies have assessed whether these associations extend to cardiometabolic outcomes during adolescence. METHODS Among 183 mother-adolescent pairs in a prospective cohort study that enrolled pregnant women in Cincinnati, OH (2003-2006), we quantified nine phthalate metabolites in spot urine samples collected twice from mothers during pregnancy and up to seven times from children. At age 12 years, we assessed triglycerides, high-density (HDL) and low-density (LDL) lipoprotein cholesterol, insulin, and glucose from fasting serum samples and calculated homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Using multiple informant models, we estimated covariate-adjusted associations between urinary phthalate concentrations at each time period and cardiometabolic biomarkers at age 12 years, including modification by child sex. RESULTS Although most associations were weak or null, monoethyl phthalate (MEP), mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP), mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP), and monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP) concentrations were generally associated with lower LDL at age 12 years. A 10-fold increase in 4- and 12-year MEP was associated with -15.3 mg/dL (95% CI: 27.5, -3.13 mg/dL) and -11.8 mg/dL (-22.0, -1.51 mg/dL) lower LDL, respectively. Discrepant associations were observed in females versus males: a 10-fold increase in 3-year MEP concentrations was associated with 12.0 mg/dL (95% CI: 7.11, 31.1 mg/dL) higher LDL levels in males and -30.4 mg/dL (95% CI: 50.9, -9.8 mg/dL) lower LDL levels in females. Some urinary phthalate concentrations were cross-sectionally associated with HOMA-IR. CONCLUSIONS Early-life phthalate biomarker concentrations may be inversely associated with LDL during early adolescence in an exposure-period and sex-dependent manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taylor M Etzel
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Jordan R Kuiper
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Xiaobin Wang
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Noel T Mueller
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Antonia M Calafat
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Kim M Cecil
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | - Aimin Chen
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | | | - Kimberly Yolton
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | - Heidi J Kalkwarf
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | | | - Jessie P Buckley
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Chen HK, Wang SL, Chang YH, Sun CW, Wu MT, Chen ML, Lin YJ, Hsieh CJ. Associations between maternal phthalate exposure and neonatal neurobehaviors: The Taiwan maternal and infant cohort study (TMICS). ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 319:120956. [PMID: 36581241 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown associations between prenatal phthalate exposure and neurobehavioral changes in children. However, few studies have focused on neonatal neurobehavioral development. This study aimed to examine the associations between prenatal phthalate exposure and neonatal neurobehavioral development in the early days of life after birth. This cohort study included 283 mother-infant pairs who participated in the Taiwan Mother Infant Cohort Study during 2012-2015. Each mother was interviewed, and urine samples were collected during the third trimester of pregnancy (weeks 29-40). Eleven common phthalate metabolites in maternal urine were analyzed. The Chinese version of the Neonatal Neurobehavioral Examination was used to evaluate early infant neurobehavioral development within five days of birth. We performed multiple linear regressions to explore the associations between phthalate exposure and neonatal neurobehavioral development. Sex differences in the association between phthalate metabolites and neonatal neurobehaviors were noted. Among girls, tertiles of phthalate metabolite concentrations were associated with worse behavioral responses and tone and motor patterns in the high-molecular-weight phthalate (HMW) and low-molecular-weight phthalate (LMW) groups. Girls in the highest tertile of di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP) had a negative association with tone and motor patterns. Girls in the highest tertile of mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP) and MiBP showed a negative association with behavioral responses. In contrast, tertiles of phthalate metabolite exposure were associated with improved neurobehaviors in mono-methyl phthalate (MMP) among boys. The highest tertile of MMP was positively associated with behavioral responses, primitive reflexes, and tone and motor patterns. Our findings suggest that maternal phthalate exposure affects neonatal neurobehavioral development in a sex-specific manner. Despite the relatively small sample size, our findings add to the existing research linking maternal phthalate exposure to neonatal neurobehavioral development. Additional research is needed to determine the potential long-term effects of prenatal phthalate exposure on children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hsing-Kang Chen
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan; Department of Psychiatry, Yuli Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Li Wang
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan; Department of Public Health, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Safety, Health, and Environmental Engineering, National United University, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hsun Chang
- Department of Pediatrics, Hualien Tzu Chi General Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan; School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan; Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Wen Sun
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Tsang Wu
- Research Center for Environmental Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Family Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Lien Chen
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Jie Lin
- Department of Public Health, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Jung Hsieh
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan; Department of Public Health, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Begum TF, Carpenter D. Health effects associated with phthalate activity on nuclear receptors. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2022; 37:567-583. [PMID: 34592072 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2020-0162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Phthalates are endocrine disruptors, widely used as plasticizers to impart flexibility in plastics, and as solvents in personal care products. Due to their nearly ubiquitous use in consumer products, most humans are exposed to phthalates daily. There has been extensive research on the reproductive health effects associated with phthalate exposure, but less attention has been paid to other actions. This review aims to summarize the known action of phthalates on different nuclear receptors. Some phthalates bind to and activate the estrogen receptor, making them weakly estrogenic. However, other phthalates antagonize androgen receptors. Some high molecular weight phthalates antagonize thyroid receptors, affecting metabolism. Several phthalates activate and interfere with the normal function of different peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), receptors that have critical roles in lipid metabolism and energy homeostasis. Some phthalates activate the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, which is critical for xenobiotic metabolism. Although phthalates have a short half-life in vivo, because people are continuously exposed, studies should examine the health effects of phthalates associated with long-term exposure. There is limited research on the effects of phthalates on health outcomes aside from reproductive function, particularly concerning are childhood adiposity, behavior, and learning. There is also limited information on actions of phthalates not mediated via nuclear receptors. Humans are exposed to multiple chemicals simultaneously, and how chemical mixtures act on nuclear receptor activity needs study. Although we know a great deal about phthalates, there is still much that remains uncertain. Future studies need to further examine their other potential health effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thoin Farzana Begum
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University at Albany, Rensselaer, NY, USA
| | - David Carpenter
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University at Albany, Rensselaer, NY, USA
- Institute for Health and the Environment, University at Albany, Rensselaer, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Tang X, Li D, Zhao T, Zhu S, Gao X, Zhou R, Deng F, Fu W, Jia W, Liu G. The inhibition of CFTR in the descended testis of SD rats with unilateral cryptorchidism induced by di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:77047-77056. [PMID: 35676569 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-21134-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a kind of environmental endocrine disruptors (EEDs), which has been confirmed to cause serious consequences, such as cryptorchidism. Patients with unilateral cryptorchidism still had oligospermia or infertility even if they received orchidopexy before puberty. Testicular dysgenesis syndrome (TDS) attributes this kind of problems to the abnormal testicular development during the embryonic period, and considers that the environmental exposure factors during pregnancy play a major role. Therefore, for unilateral cryptorchidism, even if one testicle has dropped to scrotum, it may be exposed to these substances and cause damage. Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conduction regulator (CFTR) is very important for the maturation of male reproductive system. Previously, cryptorchidism was thought to cause abnormal expression of heat sensitive protein CFTR in testis, but the expression of CFTR in healthy side (descended side) testis was not clear. In this study, we established SD rats with unilateral cryptorchidism by exposure to DEHP (500 mg/kg/day) during pregnancy, and detected the expression of CFTR and downstream signal NF-κB/COX-2/PGE2 in bilateral testis. Finally, we found that the expression of CFTR and downstream signal NF-κB/COX-2/PGE2 in the undescended testis was significantly abnormal, but the expression of them in the descended testis was also abnormal to some extent. Therefore, we speculate that in addition to high temperature will affect the expression of CFTR, there may be other factors that cause abnormal expression of CFTR induced by DEHP, and lead to abnormal male reproductive function eventually, but the specific mechanism needs to be further studied.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangliang Tang
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Dian Li
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Tianxin Zhao
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Shibo Zhu
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaofeng Gao
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Rui Zhou
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Fuming Deng
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Wen Fu
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Wei Jia
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Guochang Liu
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China.
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Etzel TM, Braun JM, Kuiper JR, Calafat AM, Cecil KM, Chen A, Lanphear BP, Yolton K, Kalkwarf HJ, Buckley JP. Gestational and childhood phthalate exposures and adolescent body composition: The HOME study. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 212:113320. [PMID: 35461845 PMCID: PMC9233110 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early life phthalate exposures may disrupt metabolism but results from human studies are inconsistent and few have examined body composition during adolescence. We investigated associations of gestational and childhood urinary phthalate biomarker concentrations with body composition at age 12 years. METHODS We used data from 206 mother-child pairs in a prospective pregnancy and birth cohort enrolled in Cincinnati, OH from 2003 to 2006. We measured nine phthalate metabolites in spot urine samples collected twice from mothers during pregnancy and up to seven times from children at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, and 12 years. At age 12 years, we assessed fat and lean mass of the whole body and android and gynoid subregions, and visceral fat area with dual x-ray absorptiometry, and calculated android to gynoid %fat ratio and age- and sex-standardized fat and lean mass index z-scores. Using a multiple informant model, we estimated covariate-adjusted associations between urinary phthalate biomarker concentrations at each time period and outcomes at age 12 years. We assessed effect measure modification by child sex using stratified models. RESULTS Generally, urinary mono-benzyl phthalate (MBzP) concentrations were modestly associated with lower fat and lean mass. Each 10-fold increase in urinary MBzP concentrations during gestation and at ages 5 and 8 years was associated with a -0.34 (95%CI: -0.72, 0.05), -0.44 (95% CI: -0.83, -0.05), and -0.35 (95% CI: -0.71, 0.00) z-score difference in lean body mass index, respectively. Urinary monoethyl phthalate, mono-(3-carboxypropyl) phthalate, and summed di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate metabolites were associated with greater lean mass at some exposure periods. Slightly weaker but similar patterns of association were found with other body composition measures; associations did not differ by child sex. CONCLUSION While most associations were weak, exposure to certain phthalates during gestation and childhood may be associated with adolescent body composition, particularly lean mass.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taylor M Etzel
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Joseph M Braun
- Brown University, 121 S. Main St, Providence, RI, 02903, USA.
| | - Jordan R Kuiper
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Antonia M Calafat
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Highway, NE Atlanta, GA, 30341, USA.
| | - Kim M Cecil
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA; University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3230 Eden Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA.
| | - Aimin Chen
- University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Bruce P Lanphear
- Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Dr, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada.
| | - Kimberly Yolton
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA; University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3230 Eden Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA.
| | - Heidi J Kalkwarf
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA; University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3230 Eden Ave, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA.
| | - Jessie P Buckley
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Goh CJH, Cui L, Wong JH, Lewis J, Goh M, Kong KW, Yang LK, Alfatah M, Kanagasundaram Y, Hoon S, Arumugam P. Diethyl phthalate (DEP) perturbs nitrogen metabolism in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Sci Rep 2022; 12:10237. [PMID: 35715465 PMCID: PMC9205984 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-14284-w] [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: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Phthalates are ubiquitously used as plasticizers in various consumer care products. Diethyl phthalate (DEP), one of the main phthalates, elicits developmental and reproductive toxicities but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Chemogenomic profiling of DEP in S. cerevisiae revealed that two transcription factors Stp1 and Dal81 involved in the Ssy1-Ptr5-Ssy5 (SPS) amino acid-sensing pathway provide resistance to DEP. Growth inhibition of yeast cells by DEP was stronger in poor nitrogen medium in comparison to nitrogen-rich medium. Addition of amino acids to nitrogen-poor medium suppressed DEP toxicity. Catabolism of amino acids via the Ehrlich pathway is required for suppressing DEP toxicity. Targeted metabolite analyses showed that DEP treatment alters the amino acid profile of yeast cells. We propose that DEP inhibits the growth of yeast cells by affecting nitrogen metabolism and discuss the implications of our findings on DEP-mediated toxic effects in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Liang Cui
- Antimicrobial Resistance Interdisciplinary Research Group, Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology, 1 CREATE Way, Singapore, 138602, Singapore
| | - Jin Huei Wong
- Bioinformatics Institute, 30 Biopolis Street, Singapore, 138671, Singapore
| | - Jacqueline Lewis
- Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation, 61 Biopolis Drive, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Megan Goh
- Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation, 61 Biopolis Drive, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Kiat Whye Kong
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, 61 Biopolis Drive, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Lay Kien Yang
- Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation, 61 Biopolis Drive, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Mohammad Alfatah
- Bioinformatics Institute, 30 Biopolis Street, Singapore, 138671, Singapore
| | - Yoganathan Kanagasundaram
- Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation, 61 Biopolis Drive, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Shawn Hoon
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, 61 Biopolis Drive, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Prakash Arumugam
- Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation, 61 Biopolis Drive, Singapore, 138673, Singapore. .,School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 637551, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Lee DW, Lim HM, Lee JY, Min KB, Shin CH, Lee YA, Hong YC. Prenatal exposure to phthalate and decreased body mass index of children: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2022; 12:8961. [PMID: 35624195 PMCID: PMC9142490 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13154-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Phthalates are well-known endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Many detrimental health effects of phthalates were investigated, but studies on the association of phthalates with obesity in children showed inconsistent results. Thus, this systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to clarify whether prenatal and postnatal exposures to phthalates are associated with physical growth disturbances in children. We performed the systematic review and meta-analysis following the PRISMA 2020 statement guidelines, and found 39 studies that met our inclusion criteria, including 22 longitudinal and 17 cross-sectional studies. We observed a significant negative association between the prenatal exposure to DEHP and the body mass index (BMI) z-score of the offspring (β = - 0.05; 95% CI: - 0.10, - 0.001) in the meta-analysis, while no significant association between the prenatal exposure to DEHP and the body fat percentage of the offspring was observed (β = 0.01; 95% CI: - 0.41, 0.44). In the systematic review, studies on the association between phthalates exposure in childhood and obesity were inconsistent. Prenatal exposure to phthalates was found to be associated with decreased BMI z-score in children, but not associated with body fat percentage. Our findings suggest that phthalates disturb the normal muscle growth of children, rather than induce obesity, as previous studies have hypothesized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Wook Lee
- Public Healthcare Center, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.,Department of Preventive Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Mook Lim
- COMWEL Daejeon Hospital, Korea Workers' Compensation & Welfare Service, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Joong-Yub Lee
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Bok Min
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Choong-Ho Shin
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Ah Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Chul Hong
- Department of Humans Systems Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Balcı A, Özkemahlı G, Erkekoglu P, Zeybek D, Yersal N, Kocer-Gumusel B. Effects of prenatal and lactational bisphenol a and/or di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate exposure on male reproductive system. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2022; 32:902-915. [PMID: 32787440 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2020.1805416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates are abundantly used endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of single and combined exposures to BPA and/or di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) in prenatal and lactational period on rat male reproductive system in later stages of life. Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were divided randomly to four groups (n = 3/group): Control (corn oil); DEHP (30 mg/kg/day); BPA (50 mg/kg/day); and BPA+ DEHP (30 mg/kg/day DEHP and 50 mg/kg/day BPA). Groups exposed to EDCs through 6-21 gestational days and lactation period by intragastric lavage. Male offspring (n = 6/group) from each mother were fed till adulthood and were then euthanized. Later, reproductive hormones, sperm parameters, and oxidative stress parameters were determined. In conclusion, we can suggest that prenatal and lactational exposure to BPA and DEHP may cause adverse effects in male reproductive system in later stages of life especially after combined exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aylin Balcı
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Gizem Özkemahlı
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Toxicology, Erzincan Binali Yıldırım University, Erzincan, Turkey
| | - Pınar Erkekoglu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Dilara Zeybek
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Nilgün Yersal
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Belma Kocer-Gumusel
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Lokman Hekim University, Ankara, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Dziobak MK, Wells RS, Pisarski EC, Wirth EF, Hart LB. A Correlational Analysis of Phthalate Exposure and Thyroid Hormone Levels in Common Bottlenose Dolphins ( Tursiops truncatus) from Sarasota Bay, Florida (2010-2019). Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:824. [PMID: 35405813 PMCID: PMC8996861 DOI: 10.3390/ani12070824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Phthalates are chemical esters used to enhance desirable properties of plastics, personal care, and cleaning products. Phthalates have shown ubiquitous environmental contamination due to their abundant use and propensity to leach from products to which they are added. Following exposure, phthalates are rapidly metabolized and excreted through urine. Common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) sampled from Sarasota Bay, Florida, have demonstrated prevalent di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) exposure indicated by detectable urinary mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) concentrations. Widespread exposure is concerning due to evidence of endocrine disruption from human and laboratory studies. To better understand how phthalate exposure may impact dolphin health, correlations between relevant hormone levels and detectable urinary MEHP concentrations were examined. Hormone concentrations measured via blood serum samples included triiodothyronine (T3), total thyroxine (T4), and free thyroxine (FT4). Urinary MEHP concentrations were detected in 56% of sampled individuals (n = 50; mean = 8.13 ng/mL; s.d. = 15.99 ng/mL). Adult female and male FT4 was significantly correlated with urinary MEHP concentrations (adult female Kendall's tau = 0.36, p = 0.04; adult male Kendall's tau = 0.42, p = 0.02). Evidence from this study suggests DEHP exposure may be impacting thyroid hormone homeostasis. Cumulative effects of other stressors and resultant endocrine impacts are unknown. Further research is warranted to understand potential health implications associated with this relationship.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miranda K. Dziobak
- Environmental and Sustainability Studies Graduate Program, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424, USA
- Environmental Health Sciences Graduate Program, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Randall S. Wells
- Chicago Zoological Society’s Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, c/o Mote Marine Laboratory, Sarasota, FL 34236, USA;
| | - Emily C. Pisarski
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Ocean Service, National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, Charleston, SC 29412, USA; (E.C.P.); (E.F.W.)
| | - Ed F. Wirth
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Ocean Service, National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, Charleston, SC 29412, USA; (E.C.P.); (E.F.W.)
| | - Leslie B. Hart
- Department of Health and Human Performance, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Prenatal exposure to the phthalate DEHP impacts reproduction-related gene expression in the pituitary. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 108:18-27. [PMID: 34954075 PMCID: PMC8882145 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Phthalates are chemicals used in products including plastics, personal care products, and building materials, leading to widespread contact. Previous studies on prenatal exposure to Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) in mice and humans demonstrated pubertal timing and reproductive performance could be affected in exposed offspring. However, the impacts at the pituitary, specifically regarding signaling pathways engaged and direct effects on the gonadotropins LH and FSH, are unknown. We hypothesized prenatal exposure to DEHP during a critical period of embryonic development (e15.5 to e18.5) will cause sex-specific disruptions in reproduction-related mRNA expression in offspring's pituitary due to interference with androgen and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) signaling. We found that prenatal DEHP exposure in vivo caused a significant increase in Fshb specifically in males, while the anti-androgen flutamide caused significant increases in both Lhb and Fshb in males. AhR target gene Cyp1b1 was increased in both sexes in DEHP-exposed offspring. In embryonic pituitary cultures, the DEHP metabolite MEHP increased Cyp1a1 and Cyp1b1 mRNA in both sexes and Cyp1b1 induction was reduced by co-treatment with AhR antagonist. AhR reporter assay in GHFT1 cells confirmed MEHP can activate AhR signaling. Lhb, Fshb and Gnrhr mRNA were significantly decreased in both sexes by MEHP, but co-treatment with AhR antagonist did not restore mRNA levels in pituitary culture. In summary, our data suggest phthalates can directly affect the function of the pituitary by activating AhR signaling and altering gonadotropin expression. This indicates DEHP's impacts on the pituitary could contribute to reproductive dysfunctions observed in exposed mice and humans.
Collapse
|
26
|
Günaydin N, Altin E, Ormanci N, Ertekin A. The Effect of Di (2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate on Hair Trace Mineral Levels in Rats. Biol Trace Elem Res 2022; 200:647-651. [PMID: 33683540 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-021-02663-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
We studied the effect of di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) on rat hair deposition of Iron (Fe), Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn), and Zinc (Zn). Four groups, each of eight of female Wistar rats weighing 250-300 g, were randomly distributed to (1) control (corn oil-based diet), (2) DEHP 20 (20 mg DEHP per kg body weight (bw), (3) DEHP 100 (100mg DEHP kg/bw, and (4) DEHP 500 (500 mg DEHP kg/bw). The diets were fed daily for 14 days by gastric gavage before the rats were sacrificed. Hair content of Fe, Cu, Mn, and Zn was analyzed with atomic absorption spectrophotometry. There were no significant effect of DEHP on hair Fe content. However, hair Cu, Mn, and Zn were increased after DEHP 20 exposure (p<0.001). After administering DEHP 100 and DEHP 500, both Mn and Zn were decreased (p<0.001), respectively. Hair deposition of Cu, Mn, and Zn was affected by DEHP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nurgül Günaydin
- Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health, 29 Mayis State Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Emine Altin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55200, Samsun, Turkey.
| | - Neslihan Ormanci
- Samsun Veterinary Control and Research Institute, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Ali Ertekin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55200, Samsun, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Morgan MB, Ross J, Ellwanger J, Phrommala RM, Youngblood H, Qualley D, Williams J. Sea Anemones Responding to Sex Hormones, Oxybenzone, and Benzyl Butyl Phthalate: Transcriptional Profiling and in Silico Modelling Provide Clues to Decipher Endocrine Disruption in Cnidarians. Front Genet 2022; 12:793306. [PMID: 35087572 PMCID: PMC8787064 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.793306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Endocrine disruption is suspected in cnidarians, but questions remain how occurs. Steroid sex hormones are detected in corals and sea anemones even though these animals do not have estrogen receptors and their repertoire of steroidogenic enzymes appears to be incomplete. Pathways associated with sex hormone biosynthesis and sterol signaling are an understudied area in cnidarian biology. The objective of this study was to identify a suite of genes that can be linked to exposure of endocrine disruptors. Exaiptasia diaphana were exposed to nominal 20ppb concentrations of estradiol (E2), testosterone (T), cholesterol, oxybenzone (BP-3), or benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) for 4 h. Eleven genes of interest (GOIs) were chosen from a previously generated EST library. The GOIs are 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases type 14 (17β HSD14) and type 12 (17β HSD12), Niemann-Pick C type 2 (NPC2), Equistatin (EI), Complement component C3 (C3), Cathepsin L (CTSL), Patched domain-containing protein 3 (PTCH3), Smoothened (SMO), Desert Hedgehog (DHH), Zinc finger protein GLI2 (GLI2), and Vitellogenin (VTG). These GOIs were selected because of functional associations with steroid hormone biosynthesis; cholesterol binding/transport; immunity; phagocytosis; or Hedgehog signaling. Quantitative Real-Time PCR quantified expression of GOIs. In silico modelling utilized protein structures from Protein Data Bank as well as creating protein structures with SWISS-MODEL. Results show transcription of steroidogenic enzymes, and cholesterol binding/transport proteins have similar transcription profiles for E2, T, and cholesterol treatments, but different profiles when BP-3 or BBP is present. C3 expression can differentiate between exposures to BP-3 versus BBP as well as exposure to cholesterol versus sex hormones. In silico modelling revealed all ligands (E2, T, cholesterol, BBP, and BP-3) have favorable binding affinities with 17β HSD14, 17β HSD12, NPC2, SMO, and PTCH proteins. VTG expression was down-regulated in the sterol treatments but up-regulated in BP-3 and BBP treatments. In summary, these eleven GOIs collectively generate unique transcriptional profiles capable of discriminating between the five chemical exposures used in this investigation. This suite of GOIs are candidate biomarkers for detecting transcriptional changes in steroidogenesis, gametogenesis, sterol transport, and Hedgehog signaling. Detection of disruptions in these pathways offers new insight into endocrine disruption in cnidarians.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael B Morgan
- Department of Biology, Berry College, Mount Berry, GA, United States.,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Berry College, Mount Berry, GA, United States
| | - James Ross
- Department of Biology, Berry College, Mount Berry, GA, United States.,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Berry College, Mount Berry, GA, United States.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory Vaccine Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Joseph Ellwanger
- Department of Biology, Berry College, Mount Berry, GA, United States
| | | | - Hannah Youngblood
- Department of Biology, Berry College, Mount Berry, GA, United States.,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Berry College, Mount Berry, GA, United States.,Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Dominic Qualley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Berry College, Mount Berry, GA, United States
| | - Jacob Williams
- Department of Biology, Berry College, Mount Berry, GA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Yland JJ, Zhang Y, Williams PL, Mustieles V, Vagios S, Souter I, Calafat AM, Hauser R, Messerlian C. Phthalate and DINCH urinary concentrations across pregnancy and risk of preterm birth. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 292:118476. [PMID: 34763012 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.118476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Preconception and prenatal exposure to phthalates has been associated with an increased risk of preterm birth. However, it is unclear whether there are periods of heightened susceptibility during pregnancy. This prospective cohort study included 386 women undergoing fertility treatment who gave birth to a singleton infant during 2005 through 2018. Eleven phthalate metabolites were measured in spot urine samples collected at each trimester. In approximately 50% of participants, two metabolites of 1,2-cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid diisononyl ester (DINCH), a phthalate substitute, were also measured. The molar sum of four di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate metabolites (∑DEHP) was calculated. We evaluated the associations of mean maternal biomarker concentrations with risk of preterm birth using modified log-binomial models and utilized multiple informant models to compare trimester-specific associations. We examined the relative biomarker concentration across gestation comparing women with preterm birth to women with term delivery using quadratic mixed model. The risk ratio for preterm birth associated with a one-unit increase in the natural log-transformed urinary concentrations of ∑DEHP (mean during pregnancy) was 1.21 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.84, 1.72). In multiple informant models, these associations were strongest in the third trimester (RR = 1.51; 95% CI: 1.17, 1.95). Estimated mean ∑DEHP concentrations were higher among women with preterm than term delivery, especially late in gestation. Associations with preterm birth were also observed for each of the four individual DEHP metabolites. Detection of cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylic acid monocarboxyisooctyl ester (MCOCH), a metabolite of DINCH, appeared to be positively related to preterm birth. In this prospective cohort of subfertile couples, maternal ∑DEHP metabolite concentrations during pregnancy were associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, particularly during late gestation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer J Yland
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Paige L Williams
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Vicente Mustieles
- University of Granada, Center for Biomedical Research (CIBM), Spain. Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria Ibs GRANADA, Spain; Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), 18100, Spain
| | - Stylianos Vagios
- Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Irene Souter
- Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Antonia M Calafat
- National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Russ Hauser
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Carmen Messerlian
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Ma YB, Manzoor R, Jia PP, Bian WP, Hamid N, Xie ZY, Pei DS. Transcriptome and in silico approaches provide new insights into the mechanism of male reproductive toxicity induced by chronic exposure to DEHP. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 289:117944. [PMID: 34391046 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.117944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) can affect the male reproductive system in vertebrates, but the underlying molecular mechanism is still elusive. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to dig the in-depth mechanism of DEHP-induced reproductive toxicity on male zebrafish via testicular transcriptome using embryo exposed at the environmentally relevant concentration (ERC) of 100 μg/L for 111 days. Moreover, our results were further confirmed via in silico technique and bioassay experimental in vitro (cell lines) and in vivo (zebrafish). The results showed DEHP exposure could affect male spermatogenesis, altered gonad histology, and reduced egg fertilization rate. Transcriptome analysis identified 1879 significant differentially expressed genes enriched in the exposure group. Twenty-seven genes related to three pathways of reproduction behavior were further validated by qPCR. In silico molecular docking revealed that DEHP and its metabolism bind to the zebrafish progesterone receptor (Pgr), suggesting the potential disruption of DEHP to the normal Pgr signaling. To further validate it, a wild-type Pgr plasmid and its mutants on specific binding sites were constructed. The transfection and microinjection experiment demonstrated that these binding sites mutations of Pgr affected the expression levels of male reproductive toxicity. Taken together, our study provided new insight into the molecular mechanisms of male reproductive toxicity induced by DEHP, and Pgr may serve as an important target binding by DEHP pollution, which needs further study in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Bo Ma
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing, 400714, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Rakia Manzoor
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; State Key Laboratory of Molecular Development Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Pan-Pan Jia
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing, 400714, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Wan-Ping Bian
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing, 400714, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Naima Hamid
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing, 400714, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zhuo-Yuan Xie
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing, 400714, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - De-Sheng Pei
- School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Schwartz CL, Christiansen S, Hass U, Ramhøj L, Axelstad M, Löbl NM, Svingen T. On the Use and Interpretation of Areola/Nipple Retention as a Biomarker for Anti-androgenic Effects in Rat Toxicity Studies. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2021; 3:730752. [PMID: 35295101 PMCID: PMC8915873 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2021.730752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Areola/nipple retention (NR) is an established biomarker for an anti-androgenic mode of action in rat toxicity studies. It is a mandatory measurement under several OECD test guidelines and is typically assessed in combination with anogenital distance (AGD). Both NR and AGD are considered retrospective biomarkers of insufficient androgen signaling during the masculinization programming window in male fetuses. However, there are still aspects concerning NR as a biomarker for endocrine disruption that remains to be clarified. For instance, can NR be regarded a permanent adverse effect? Is it a redundant measurement if AGD is assessed in the same study? Is NR equally sensitive and specific to anti-androgenic chemical substances as a shortening of male AGD? In this review we discuss these and other aspects concerning the use of NR as a biomarker in toxicity studies. We have collected available literature from rat toxicity studies that have reported on NR and synthesized the data in order to draw a clearer picture about the sensitivity and specificity of NR as an effect biomarker for an anti-androgenic mode of action, including comparisons to AGD measurements. We carefully conclude that NR and AGD in rats for the most part display similar sensitivity and specificity, but that there are clear exceptions which support the continued assessment of both endpoints in relevant reproductive toxicity studies. Available literature also support the view that NR in infant male rats signifies a high risk for permanent nipples in adulthood. Finally, the literature suggests that the mechanisms of action leading from a chemical stressor event to either NR or short AGD in male offspring are overlapping with respect to canonical androgen signaling, yet differ with respect to other mechanisms of action.
Collapse
|
31
|
Khezri MR, Ghasemnejad-Berenji M, Mahboubi N. The probable mechanism of reduced androgen level in COVID-19 patients. Horm Mol Biol Clin Investig 2021; 43:hmbci-2021-0052. [PMID: 34674407 DOI: 10.1515/hmbci-2021-0052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2, has challenged the health care systems of the world. Although the pulmonary complications of the infection have received extensive attention, addressing the other complications (e.g., changes in androgen levels) could further provide a more efficient understanding of the disease, which might aid in combating it. Since the association between androgens and the expression and activity of SARS-CoV-2 receptors has been proven and anti-androgen-based therapies have been considered in this regard, addressing various aspects of androgen level changes can be constructive. The present paper examines the possible mechanisms of changes in androgen levels by the virus. It seems that the infection of the gonads by the SARS-CoV-2 could reduce the androgen levels by affecting different cellular pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Rafi Khezri
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Morteza Ghasemnejad-Berenji
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- Research Center for Experimental and Applied Pharmaceutical Sciences, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Negin Mahboubi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Gray LE, Lambright CS, Conley JM, Evans N, Furr JR, Hannas BR, Wilson VS, Sampson H, Foster PMD. Genomic and Hormonal Biomarkers of Phthalate-Induced Male Rat Reproductive Developmental Toxicity Part II: A Targeted RT-qPCR Array Approach That Defines a Unique Adverse Outcome Pathway. Toxicol Sci 2021; 182:195-214. [PMID: 33983380 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfab053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Previously, we demonstrated that exposure to some diortho-phthalate esters during sexual differentiation disrupts male reproductive development by reducing fetal rat testis testosterone production (T Prod) and gene expression in a dose-related manner. The objectives of the current project were to expand the number of test compounds that might reduce fetal T Prod, including phthalates, phthalate alternatives, pesticides, and drugs, and to compare reductions in T Prod with altered testis mRNA expression. We found that PEs that disrupt T Prod also reduced expression of a unique "cluster" of mRNAs for about 35 genes related to sterol transport, testosterone and insulin-like hormone 3 hormone syntheses, and lipoprotein signaling and cholesterol synthesis. However, phthalates had little or no effect on mRNA expression of genes in peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) pathways in the fetal liver, whereas the 3 PPAR agonists induced the expression of mRNA for multiple fetal liver PPAR pathway genes without reducing testis T Prod. In summary, phthalates that disrupt T Prod act via a novel adverse outcome pathway including down regulation of mRNA for genes involved in fetal endocrine function and cholesterol synthesis and metabolism. This profile was not displayed by PEs that did not reduce T Prod, PPAR agonists or the other chemicals. Reductions in fetal testis gene expression and T Prod in utero can be used to establish relative potency factors that can be used quantitatively to predict the doses of individual PEs and mixtures of phthalates that produce adverse reproductive tract effects in male offspring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leon Earl Gray
- Reproductive and Developmental Toxicology Branch, PHITD, CPHEA, ORD, US Environmental Protection Agency, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - Christy S Lambright
- Reproductive and Developmental Toxicology Branch, PHITD, CPHEA, ORD, US Environmental Protection Agency, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - Justin M Conley
- Reproductive and Developmental Toxicology Branch, PHITD, CPHEA, ORD, US Environmental Protection Agency, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - Nicola Evans
- Reproductive and Developmental Toxicology Branch, PHITD, CPHEA, ORD, US Environmental Protection Agency, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | | | - Bethany R Hannas
- Corteva, Agriscience, Haskell R&D Center, Newark, Delaware 19711, USA
| | - Vickie S Wilson
- Reproductive and Developmental Toxicology Branch, PHITD, CPHEA, ORD, US Environmental Protection Agency, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - Hunter Sampson
- Reproductive and Developmental Toxicology Branch, PHITD, CPHEA, ORD, US Environmental Protection Agency, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Yahyavy S, Valizadeh A, Saki G, Khorsandi L. Taurine ameliorates cytotoxic effects of Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate on Leydig cells. Andrologia 2021; 53:e14146. [PMID: 34165216 DOI: 10.1111/and.14146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been revealed that di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) has toxic impacts on the male reproductive system. Taurine (TAU) is an amino acid with antioxidant property and beneficial impacts on the male reproductive system. In this study, protective impacts of Taurine (TAU) on DEHP-induced Leydig TM3 cell toxicity were investigated. The cells exposed to DEHP (0.8 µmol) or TAU (100 mg/ml) for 24 hr. Cell viability (MTT assay), apoptosis, oxidative stress and testosterone level were examined. DEHP could significantly decrease the cell viability percentage, reduce testosterone level, increase apoptosis, elevate Bax/ Bcl-2 ratio and enhance caspase-3 and -9 activity in the TM3 cells. Additionally, DEHP significantly elevated malondialdehyde contents and reactive oxygen species levels. It also augmented superoxide dismutase and catalase activity in the Leydig cells. Co-treatment of DEHP with TAU increased viability and testosterone level, while oxidative stress and apoptosis significantly reduced. TAU could decrease Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and caspase-3 and -9 activity in the DEHP-intoxicated cells. Our results have clearly shown that TAU protects TM3 cells against oxidative stress and apoptosis induced by DEHP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shokoufeh Yahyavy
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Armita Valizadeh
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Ghasem Saki
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Layasadat Khorsandi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Watkins DJ, Meeker JD, Tamayo-Ortiz M, Sánchez BN, Schnaas L, Peterson KE, Téllez-Rojo MM. Gestational and peripubertal phthalate exposure in relation to attention performance in childhood and adolescence. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 196:110911. [PMID: 33640497 PMCID: PMC8119354 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.110911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has been increasing. Research suggests that exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals such as phthalates may play a role, but studies of in utero phthalate exposure and ADHD-related symptoms beyond early childhood are limited. We investigated associations between measures of in utero phthalate exposure and ADHD symptoms, such as inattention and impulsivity, in childhood (age 6-11 years, n = 221) and in adolescence (age 9-18 years, n = 200), as well as cross-sectional relationships between phthalate exposure and ADHD symptoms in adolescence (n = 491) among participants in the Early Life Exposure in Mexico to Environmental Toxicants (ELEMENT) cohort. Women provided urine samples up to three times during pregnancy and adolescents provided a urine sample at 9-18 years of age for phthalate metabolite measurement. We administered the Conners' Continuous Performance Test (CPT) when children were age 6-11 years and again at 9-18 years of age. We used multivariable linear regression to examine associations between the geometric mean of phthalate metabolite levels across pregnancy and CPT scores in childhood or adolescence separately, adjusting for age, years schooling (at 9-18 only), maternal education, and specific gravity. Although average in utero phthalate concentrations were not associated with CPT scores in childhood, interquartile range (IQR) increases of in utero MBzP, MCPP, and MBP were associated with 4.2%, 4.7%, and 4.5% (p < 0.05) higher Omissions scores in adolescence, respectively, indicating higher inattention. In utero MiBP levels were also associated with higher Inter-Stimulus Interval (ISI) and Variability scores (5.4% and 5.5% per IQR, p < 0.05) in adolescence. In addition, urinary DEHP metabolite levels during adolescence were cross-sectionally associated with poorer scores on several CPT indices indicating greater inattention. These findings suggest that in utero phthalate exposure may have adverse effects on attention, but these effects may not appear until adolescence, a period of extensive neurodevelopment. Future research investigating the long-term effects of in utero phthalate exposure on attention and ADHD in adolescence, as well as identification of potential mechanisms involved, is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deborah J Watkins
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - John D Meeker
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Marcela Tamayo-Ortiz
- National Council of Science and Technology, National Institute of Public Health, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Brisa N Sánchez
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Drexel Dornsife School of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lourdes Schnaas
- National Institute of Perinatology, ABC Hospital, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Karen E Peterson
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Nutritional Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Martha María Téllez-Rojo
- Center for Nutrition and Health Research, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Dose-related morphological changes in the epididymal region of sexually active adult male Japanese quail treated with di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) commencing during the pre-pubertal stage. Anim Reprod Sci 2021; 227:106733. [PMID: 33713912 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2021.106733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) is widely used as a plasticizer in personal care and medical products and is known to induce toxicity in the male reproductive organs in both mammals and birds. In this study, there was investigation of the effects of DBP on the epithelium of the rete testis, proximal, and distal efferent ductules and epididymal duct of adult Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) following treatment with varying doses during the pre-pubertal and peri-pubertal periods. Pre-pubertal quail (n = 25) 4 weeks post-hatching were dosed orally with 10, 50, 200 and 400 mg DBP/kg/d, for 30 days and control birds were administered corn-oil only (n = 5 per group). Histo-metrically, there was lesser (P < 0.001) epithelial heights of the rete testis and efferent ductules in all quail DBP-treated groups, but not in the epididymal duct epithelium. There were no morphological change effects as a result of DBP treatments in the rete testis epithelium, while there were epithelial cytoplasmic vacuoles detected in the distal efferent ductule and epididymal duct of birds treated with 50, 200 and 400 mg DPB/kg/d. There were several lesions, including degenerative changes, cytoplasmic vacuoles, apoptosis and autophagy in the epithelium of the proximal efferent ductule in quail treated with 200 and 400 mg DBP/kg/d. Overall, the results indicate that treatment with DBP during the pre-pubertal period induced dose-dependent histometric and morphological changes in the epithelium of the epididymal region. It is concluded that the proximal efferent ductule was a highly sensitive component of the epididymal tissues of Japanese quail following treatment with DBP during the pre-pubertal period.
Collapse
|
36
|
Lombó M, Herráez P. The effects of endocrine disruptors on the male germline: an intergenerational health risk. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2021; 96:1243-1262. [PMID: 33660399 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Environmental pollution is becoming one of the major concerns of society. Among the emerging contaminants, endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), a large group of toxicants, have been the subject of many scientific studies. Besides the capacity of these compounds to interfere with the endocrine system, they have also been reported to exert both genotoxic and epigenotoxic effects. Given that spermatogenesis is a coordinated process that requires the involvement of several steroid hormones and that entails deep changes in the chromatin, such as DNA compaction and epigenetic remodelling, it could be affected by male exposure to EDCs. A great deal of evidence highlights that these compounds have detrimental effects on male reproductive health, including alterations to sperm motility, sexual function, and gonad development. This review focuses on the consequences of paternal exposure to such chemicals for future generations, which still remain poorly known. Historically, spermatozoa have long been considered as mere vectors delivering the paternal haploid genome to the oocyte. Only recently have they been understood to harbour genetic and epigenetic information that plays a remarkable role during offspring early development and long-term health. This review examines the different modes of action by which the spermatozoa represent a key target for EDCs, and analyses the consequences of environmentally induced changes in sperm genetic and epigenetic information for subsequent generations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Lombó
- Department of Animal Reproduction, INIA, Puerta de Hierro 18, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Paz Herráez
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, León, 24071, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Sun L, Fan J, Song G, Cai S, Fan C, Zhong Y, Li Y. Exposure to phthalates is associated with grip strength in US adults. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2021; 209:111787. [PMID: 33333342 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2020.111787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The potential association of exposure to phthalates with muscle strength was reported in previous animal experiments. However, their association was rarely directly investigated in general populations. Thus, we aimed to ascertain the association of exposure to phthalates with grip strength using cross-sectional analysis which included 2436 individuals aged ≥ 20 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) during 2011-2014. The multivariable linear regression models were performed with the adjustment of related covariates. The results suggested that a one-unit increase in log-transformed phthalate metabolites (μg/g creatinine) was inversely associated with grip strength, including Mono-(2-ethyl)-hexyl phthalate (β: -2.727 kg, 95% CI: -3.452, -2.002), Mono-(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (β: -3.721 kg, 95% CI: -4.836, -2.607), Mono-(2-ethyl-5-oxohexl) phthalate (β: -4.669 kg, 95% CI: -5.761, -3.577), Mono-2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl phthalate (β: -4.756 kg, 95% CI: -5.957, -3.554), Mono-carboxyoctyl phthalate (β: -1.324 kg, 95% CI: -2.412, -0.235), Mono-carboxynonyl phthalate (β: -2.036 kg, 95% CI: -3.185, -0.886), Mono-benzyl phthalate (β: -2.940 kg, 95% CI: -3.853, -2.026), Mono-n-butyl phthalate (β: -2.100 kg, 95% CI: -3.474, -0.726), Mono-isobutyl phthalate (β: -2.982 kg, 95% CI: -4.331, -1.633), and Mono-ethyl phthalate (β: -1.709 kg, 95% CI: -2.368, -1.050). In subgroup analyses, the associations remained largely unchanged when the samples were stratified by gender and age; However they became ambiguous among underweight subjects when the samples were stratified by BMI status. Overall, exposure to phthalates was inversely associated with grip strength among US adults, regardless of their genders and ages. The suggestive potential BMI status-specific effects of phthalates on grip strength were observed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Sun
- Department of Orthopaedics, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiayao Fan
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guangzhong Song
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shaofang Cai
- Department of Science and Education, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, China
| | - Chunhong Fan
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yaohong Zhong
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yingjun Li
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Patti MA, Newschaffer C, Eliot M, Hamra GB, Chen A, Croen LA, Fallin MD, Hertz-Picciotto I, Kalloo G, Khoury JC, Lanphear BP, Lyall K, Yolton K, Braun JM. Gestational Exposure to Phthalates and Social Responsiveness Scores in Children Using Quantile Regression: The EARLI and HOME Studies. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:1254. [PMID: 33573264 PMCID: PMC7908417 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18031254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Linear regression is often used to estimate associations between chemical exposures and neurodevelopment at the mean of the outcome. However, the potential effect of chemicals may be greater among individuals at the 'tails' of outcome distributions. Here, we investigated distributional effects on the associations between gestational phthalate exposure and child Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)-related behaviors using quantile regression. We harmonized data from the Early Autism Risk Longitudinal Investigation (EARLI) (n = 140) Study, an enriched-risk cohort of mothers who had a child with ASD, and the Health Outcomes and Measures of the Environment (HOME) Study (n = 276), a general population cohort. We measured concentrations of 9 phthalate metabolites in urine samples collected twice during pregnancy. Caregivers reported children's ASD-related behaviors using the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) at age 3-8 years; higher scores indicate more ASD-related behaviors. In EARLI, associations between phthalate concentrations and SRS scores were predominately inverse or null across SRS score quantiles. In HOME, positive associations of mono-n-butyl phthalate, monobenzyl phthalate, mono-isobutyl phthalate, and di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate concentrations with SRS scores increased in strength from the median to 95th percentile of SRS scores. These results suggest associations between phthalate concentrations and SRS scores may be stronger in individuals with higher SRS scores.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marisa A. Patti
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (M.E.); (J.M.B.)
| | - Craig Newschaffer
- A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (C.N.); (K.L.)
- College of Health & Human Development, Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA 16801, USA
| | - Melissa Eliot
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (M.E.); (J.M.B.)
| | - Ghassan B. Hamra
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
| | - Aimin Chen
- Department of Biostatistics Epidemiology and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
| | - Lisa A. Croen
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA 94612, USA;
| | - M. Daniele Fallin
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
| | - Irva Hertz-Picciotto
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
| | | | - Jane C. Khoury
- Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA;
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA;
| | - Bruce P. Lanphear
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada;
| | - Kristen Lyall
- A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (C.N.); (K.L.)
| | - Kimberly Yolton
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA;
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Joseph M. Braun
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (M.E.); (J.M.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Lucaccioni L, Trevisani V, Boncompagni A, Marrozzini L, Berardi A, Iughetti L. Minipuberty: Looking Back to Understand Moving Forward. Front Pediatr 2021; 8:612235. [PMID: 33537266 PMCID: PMC7848193 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2020.612235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis activation occurs three times in life: the first is during fetal life, and has a crucial role in sex determination, the second time is during the first postnatal months of life, and the third is with the onset of puberty. These windows of activation recall the three windows of the "Developmental Origin of Health and Disease" (DOHaD) paradigm and may play a substantial role in several aspects of human development, such as growth, behavior, and neurodevelopment. From the second trimester of pregnancy there is a peak in gonadotropin levels, followed by a decrease toward term and complete suppression at birth. This is due to the negative feedback of placental estrogens. Studies have shown that in this prenatal HPG axis activation, gonadotropin levels display a sex-related pattern which plays a crucial role in sex differentiation of internal and external genitalia. Soon after birth, there is a new increase in LH, FSH, and sex hormone concentrations, both in males and females, due to HPG re-activation. This postnatal activation is known as "minipuberty." The HPG axis activity in infancy demonstrates a pulsatile pattern with hormone levels similar to those of true puberty. We review the studies on the changes of these hormones in infancy and their influence on several aspects of future development, from linear growth to fertility and neurobehavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Lucaccioni
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of the Mothers, Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Viola Trevisani
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of the Mothers, Children and Adults, Post Graduate School of Pediatrics, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandra Boncompagni
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of the Mothers, Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Lucia Marrozzini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of the Mothers, Children and Adults, Post Graduate School of Pediatrics, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alberto Berardi
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of the Mothers, Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Iughetti
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of the Mothers, Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of the Mothers, Children and Adults, Post Graduate School of Pediatrics, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
The dynamic assessment of toxicity and pathological process of DEHP in germ cells of male Sprague Dawley rats. Reprod Biol 2020; 20:465-473. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2020.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
|
41
|
Torres-Olascoaga LA, Watkins D, Schnaas L, Meeker JD, Solano-Gonzalez M, Osorio-Valencia E, Peterson KE, Tellez-Rojo MM, Tamayo-Ortiz M. Early Gestational Exposure to High-Molecular-Weight Phthalates and Its Association with 48-Month-Old Children's Motor and Cognitive Scores. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17218150. [PMID: 33158190 PMCID: PMC7662459 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17218150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
In utero phthalate exposure has been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, nevertheless, trimester-specific susceptibility remains understudied. Our aim was to identify susceptible windows to the effects of gestational High-Molecular-Weight Phthalates (HMWP) exposure on 48 months’ neurodevelopment. We measured six HMWP metabolites (MEHP, MEHHP, MEOHP, MECPP, MBzP and MCPP) in urine samples collected during each trimester from women in the Early Life Exposure in Mexico to Environmental Toxicants (ELEMENT) cohort (n = 218). We assessed children’s motor (MS), cognitive (GCI) and memory (MeS) abilities using McCarthy Scales of Children’s Abilities (MSCA). We used linear regression models to examine associations between trimester-specific phthalate metabolites and MSCA scores, adjusted for sex, gestational age, breastfeeding, and maternal IQ. Although phthalate concentrations were similar across trimesters, first and second trimester phthalates were inversely associated with MS and GCI, with first trimester associations with MS being the strongest and statistically significant. Stronger associations were seen with MS and GCI among boys compared to girls, however interaction terms were not statistically significant. Our results suggest that early gestation is a sensitive window of exposure to HMWP for neurodevelopment, particularly in boys. Regulations on phthalate content in food as well as pregnancy consumption guidelines are necessary to protect future generations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Libni A. Torres-Olascoaga
- Center for Research on Nutrition and Health, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca 62000, Mexico; (L.A.T.-O.); (M.S.-G.); (M.M.T.-R.)
| | - Deborah Watkins
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (D.W.); (K.E.P.)
| | - Lourdes Schnaas
- National Institute of Perinatology, Mexico City 11000, Mexico; (L.S.); (E.O.-V.)
| | - John D. Meeker
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA;
| | - Maritsa Solano-Gonzalez
- Center for Research on Nutrition and Health, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca 62000, Mexico; (L.A.T.-O.); (M.S.-G.); (M.M.T.-R.)
| | | | - Karen E. Peterson
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (D.W.); (K.E.P.)
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA;
| | - Martha María Tellez-Rojo
- Center for Research on Nutrition and Health, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca 62000, Mexico; (L.A.T.-O.); (M.S.-G.); (M.M.T.-R.)
| | - Marcela Tamayo-Ortiz
- Research Unit in Occupational Health, Mexican Social Security Institute, Mexico City 06720, Mexico
- Correspondence: or
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Chen H, Chen K, Qiu X, Xu H, Mao G, Zhao T, Feng W, Okeke ES, Wu X, Yang L. The reproductive toxicity and potential mechanisms of combined exposure to dibutyl phthalate and diisobutyl phthalate in male zebrafish (Danio rerio). CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 258:127238. [PMID: 32563064 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.127238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and diisobutyl phthalate (DiBP) are phthalate compounds frequently detected in the environment. Despite increasing awareness of their toxicity in human and animals, the male reproductive toxicity of their combined exposure remains elusive. The purposes of this study were to investigate whether combined exposure to DBP and DiBP could induce male reproductive toxicity, and to explore the potential toxicological mechanisms. Adult male zebrafish were exposed to DBP (11, 113 and 1133 μg L-1), DiBP (10, 103 and 1038 μg L-1) and their mixtures (Mix) (11 + 10, 113 + 103, 1133 + 1038 μg L-1) for 30 days, and their effects on plasma hormone secretion, testis histology and transcriptomics were examined. Highest concentrations of Mix exposure caused greater imbalance ratio of T/E2 and more severe structural damage to testis than single exposure. These effects were consistent with the testis transcriptome analysis for which 4570 genes were differentially expressed in Mix exposure, while 2795 and 1613 genes were differentially expressed in DBP and DiBP, respectively. KEGG pathway analysis showed that both single and combined exposure of DBP and DiBP could affect cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction. The difference was that combined exposure could also affect steroid hormone synthesis, extracellular matrix receptor interaction, retinol metabolism, and PPAR signaling pathways. These results demonstrated that combined exposure to DBP and DiBP could disrupt spermatogenesis and elicit male reproductive toxicity in zebrafish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Chen
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Kun Chen
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuchun Qiu
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Hai Xu
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Guanghua Mao
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Zhao
- School of the Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiwei Feng
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Emmanuel Sunday Okeke
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangyang Wu
- School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China.
| | - Liuqing Yang
- School of the Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Collet B, van Vugt-Lussenburg BMA, Swart K, Helmus R, Naderman M, de Rijke E, Eggesbø M, Brouwer A, van der Burg B. Antagonistic activity towards the androgen receptor independent from natural sex hormones in human milk samples from the Norwegian HUMIS cohort. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 143:105948. [PMID: 32679394 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, we investigated the possible presence of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) based on measuring the total estrogenic and androgenic activity in human milk samples. We used specific bioassays for analysis of the endocrine activity of estrogens and estrogen-like EDCs and androgens and androgen-like EDCs and developed a separation method to evaluate the contribution from natural hormones in comparison to that of EDCs to total endocrine activities. We extracted ten random samples originating from the Norwegian HUMIS biobank of human milk and analyzed their agonistic or antagonistic activity using the ERα- and AR CALUX® bioassays. The study showed antagonistic activity towards the androgen receptor in 8 out of 10 of the assessed human milk samples, while 2 out of 10 samples showed agonistic activity for the ERα. Further investigations demonstrated anti-androgenic activity in the polar fraction of 9 out of 10 samples while no apolar extracts scored positive. The culprit chemicals causing the measured antagonistic activity in AR CALUX was investigated through liquid chromatography fractionation coupled to bioanalysis and non-target screening involving UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS, using a pooled polar extract. The analysis revealed that the measured anti-androgenic biological activity could not be explained by the presence of endogenous hormones nor their metabolites. We have demonstrated that human milk of Norwegian mothers contained anti-androgenic activity which is most likely associated with the presence of anthropogenic polar EDCs without direct interferences from natural sex hormones. These findings warrant a larger scale investigation into endocrine biological activity in human milk, as well as exploring the chemical sources of the activity and their potential effects on health of the developing infant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bérénice Collet
- VU University, Department of Animal Ecology, 1081HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; BioDetection Systems bv, Science Park 406, 1098XH Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | | | - Kees Swart
- BioDetection Systems bv, Science Park 406, 1098XH Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rick Helmus
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam, 1098XH Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Matthijs Naderman
- BioDetection Systems bv, Science Park 406, 1098XH Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eva de Rijke
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam, 1098XH Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Merete Eggesbø
- Department of Environmental Exposure and Epidemiology, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, P.O. Box 4404, N-0403 Oslo, Norway
| | - Abraham Brouwer
- VU University, Department of Animal Ecology, 1081HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; BioDetection Systems bv, Science Park 406, 1098XH Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Bart van der Burg
- BioDetection Systems bv, Science Park 406, 1098XH Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Tu W, Li W, Zhu X, Xu L. Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) induces apoptosis of mouse HT22 hippocampal neuronal cells via oxidative stress. Toxicol Ind Health 2020; 36:844-851. [PMID: 32909914 DOI: 10.1177/0748233720947205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) has been widely used as a plasticizer in industry and can affect memory; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In the present study, mouse HT22 cells, an immortalized hippocampal neuronal cell line, was utilized as an in vitro model. We showed that DEHP dramatically inhibited cell viability and increased lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release from the cells in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting that DEHP could cause cytotoxicity of mouse HT22 cells. The protein levels of cleaved Caspase-8, cleaved Caspase-3, and Bax markedly increased in the DEHP-treated cells, whereas there was a significant decrease in the Bcl-2 protein level, implying that DEHP could induce apoptosis of mouse HT22 cells. DEHP exposure significantly increased the content of malondialdehyde, whereas it markedly decreased the level of glutathione and the activities of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase, suggesting that DEHP induced oxidative stress of the cells. Compared with the DEHP-treated group, the inhibition of cell viability and the release of LDH were rescued in the N-acetyl-l-cysteine plus DEHP group. Furthermore, inhibition of oxidative stress could rescue the induction of apoptosis by DEHP. Collectively, our results indicated that DEHP could induce apoptosis of mouse HT22 cells via oxidative stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Tu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Weifeng Li
- Department of Oncology, Feng Cheng People’s Hospital, Fengcheng, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xingen Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Linlin Xu
- Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Avilès A, Cordeiro A, Maria A, Bozzolan F, Boulogne I, Dacher M, Goutte A, Alliot F, Maibeche M, Massot M, Siaussat D. Effects of DEHP on the ecdysteroid pathway, sexual behavior and offspring of the moth Spodoptera littoralis. Horm Behav 2020; 125:104808. [PMID: 32628962 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2020.104808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a widely produced plasticizer that is considered to act as an endocrine-disrupting chemical in vertebrates and invertebrates. Indeed, many studies have shown that DEHP alters hormonal levels, reproduction and behavior in vertebrates. Few studies have focused on the effects of DEHP on insects, although DEHP is found almost everywhere in their natural habitats, particularly in soils and plants. Here, we investigated the effects of DEHP on the sexual behavior and physiology of a pest insect, the noctuid moth Spodoptera littoralis. In this nocturnal species, olfaction is crucial for sexual behavior, and ecdysteroids at the antennal level have been shown to modulate sex pheromone detection by males. In the present study, larvae were fed food containing different DEHP concentrations, and DEHP concentrations were then measured in the adults (males and females). Hemolymphatic ecdysteroid concentrations, the antennal expression of genes involved in the ecdysteroid pathway (nuclear receptors EcR, USP, E75, and E78 and calmodulin) and sexual behavior were then investigated in adult males. The success and latency of mating as well as the hatching success were also studied in pairs consisting of one DEHP male and one uncontaminated female or one DEHP female and one uncontaminated male. We also studied the offspring produced from pairs involving contaminated females to test the transgenerational effect of DEHP. Our results showed the general downregulation of nuclear receptors and calmodulin gene expression associated with the higher concentrations of DEHP, suggesting peripheral olfactory disruption. We found some effects on male behavior but without an alteration of the mating rate. Effects on offspring mortality and developmental rates in the N + 1 generation were also found at the higher doses of DEHP. Taken together, the results of the study show for the first time that larval exposure to DEHP can induce delayed endocrine-disruptive effects in the adults of a terrestrial insect as well as effects on the next generation. To date, our study is also the first description of an impact of endocrine disrupter on olfaction in insects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amandine Avilès
- Sorbonne Université - Institut d'Écologie et des Sciences de l'Environnement de Paris (iEES Paris) - Département d'Écologie Sensorielle, Campus Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC), 75252 Paris Cedex 05, France
| | - Alexandra Cordeiro
- Sorbonne Université - Institut d'Écologie et des Sciences de l'Environnement de Paris (iEES Paris) - Département d'Écologie Sensorielle, Campus Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC), 75252 Paris Cedex 05, France
| | - Annick Maria
- Sorbonne Université - Institut d'Écologie et des Sciences de l'Environnement de Paris (iEES Paris) - Département d'Écologie Sensorielle, Campus Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC), 75252 Paris Cedex 05, France
| | - Françoise Bozzolan
- Sorbonne Université - Institut d'Écologie et des Sciences de l'Environnement de Paris (iEES Paris) - Département d'Écologie Sensorielle, Campus Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC), 75252 Paris Cedex 05, France
| | - Isabelle Boulogne
- Sorbonne Université - Institut d'Écologie et des Sciences de l'Environnement de Paris (iEES Paris) - Département d'Écologie Sensorielle, Campus Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC), 75252 Paris Cedex 05, France; UPRES-EA 4358 GlycoMev, Université de Rouen, Rouen, France
| | - Matthieu Dacher
- Sorbonne Université - Institut d'Écologie et des Sciences de l'Environnement de Paris (iEES Paris) - Département d'Écologie Sensorielle, Campus Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC), 75252 Paris Cedex 05, France; Sorbonne Université - Institut d'Écologie et des Sciences de l'Environnement de Paris (iEES Paris) - Département d'Écologie Sensorielle, Centre INRA, Bâtiment 1, Route de Saint Cyr, 78026 Versailles cedex, Versailles, France
| | - Aurélie Goutte
- École Pratique des Hautes Études (EPHE), PSL. UMR 7619 METIS, Université Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC) - Sorbonne Universités, Paris, France
| | - Fabrice Alliot
- École Pratique des Hautes Études (EPHE), PSL. UMR 7619 METIS, Université Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC) - Sorbonne Universités, Paris, France
| | - Martine Maibeche
- Sorbonne Université - Institut d'Écologie et des Sciences de l'Environnement de Paris (iEES Paris) - Département d'Écologie Sensorielle, Campus Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC), 75252 Paris Cedex 05, France
| | - Manuel Massot
- Sorbonne Université - Institut d'Écologie et des Sciences de l'Environnement de Paris (iEES Paris) - Département d'Écologie Sensorielle, Campus Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC), 75252 Paris Cedex 05, France
| | - David Siaussat
- Sorbonne Université - Institut d'Écologie et des Sciences de l'Environnement de Paris (iEES Paris) - Département d'Écologie Sensorielle, Campus Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC), 75252 Paris Cedex 05, France.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Ramadan M, Cooper B, Posnack NG. Bisphenols and phthalates: Plastic chemical exposures can contribute to adverse cardiovascular health outcomes. Birth Defects Res 2020; 112:1362-1385. [PMID: 32691967 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Phthalates and bisphenols are high production volume chemicals that are used in the manufacturing of consumer and medical products. Given the ubiquity of bisphenol and phthalate chemicals in the environment, biomonitoring studies routinely detect these chemicals in 75-90% of the general population. Accumulating evidence suggests that such chemical exposures may influence human health outcomes, including cardiovascular health. These associations are particularly worrisome for sensitive populations, including fetal, infant and pediatric groups-with underdeveloped metabolic capabilities and developing organ systems. In the presented article, we aimed to review the literature on environmental and clinical exposures to bisphenols and phthalates, highlight experimental work that suggests that these chemicals may exert a negative influence on cardiovascular health, and emphasize areas of concern that relate to vulnerable pediatric groups. Gaps in our current knowledge are also discussed, so that future endeavors may resolve the relationship between chemical exposures and the impact on pediatric cardiovascular physiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manelle Ramadan
- Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation, Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,Children's National Heart Institute, Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Blake Cooper
- Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation, Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Nikki Gillum Posnack
- Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation, Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,Children's National Heart Institute, Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, George Washington University, School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.,Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, George Washington University, School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
van den Dries MA, Guxens M, Spaan S, Ferguson KK, Philips E, Santos S, Jaddoe VW, Ghassabian A, Trasande L, Tiemeier H, Pronk A. Phthalate and Bisphenol Exposure during Pregnancy and Offspring Nonverbal IQ. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2020; 128:77009. [PMID: 32716663 PMCID: PMC7384796 DOI: 10.1289/ehp6047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal exposures to phthalates and bisphenols are associated with impaired brain development in animals. However, epidemiological studies investigating the association between prenatal phthalate or bisphenol exposure and cognition have produced mixed findings and mostly had modest sample sizes and measured the exposure during the third trimester. OBJECTIVE We examined the association between pregnancy maternal urinary biomarkers of phthalate or bisphenol exposure and nonverbal intelligence quotient (IQ) in children 6 years of age. METHOD The study sample consisted of 1,282 mother-child pairs participating in the Generation R Study, a population-based birth cohort in Rotterdam, Netherlands (enrollment 2002-2006). We measured maternal urinary concentrations of 18 phthalate metabolites and 8 bisphenols at < 18 , 18-25, and > 25 wks of gestation. Child nonverbal IQ was measured at 6 years of age using the Snijders-Oomen Nonverbal Intelligence Test-Revised. Linear regression models were fit for each of the three collection phases separately, the three collection phases jointly, and for the averaged prenatal exposure across pregnancy. RESULTS Higher urinary concentrations of phthalate metabolites during early pregnancy were associated with lower child nonverbal IQ score [e.g., B per 10-fold increase in summed low-molecular weight phthalates = - 1.7 (95% CI: - 3.1 , - 0.3 )]. This association remained unchanged when adjusted for mid and late pregnancy exposures. We also observed an inverse association between late pregnancy di-n-octyl phthalate (DNOP) exposure and nonverbal IQ. Maternal urinary concentrations of bisphenols were not associated with child nonverbal IQ. There was no effect estimate modification by sex. CONCLUSIONS We did not observe that maternal biomarkers of bisphenol exposure are associated with nonverbal IQ. We found that phthalate exposure in early pregnancy and DNOP exposure in late pregnancy are associated with lower nonverbal IQ scores in children. Our results might suggest that particularly early pregnancy is a sensitive window of phthalate exposure, but future studies are needed to replicate our findings. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP6047.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michiel A. van den Dries
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Generation R Study Group, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Mònica Guxens
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health, Barcelona, Spain
- Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain
| | - Suzanne Spaan
- Department of Risk Analysis for Products in Development, TNO, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Kelly K. Ferguson
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Elise Philips
- Generation R Study Group, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Susana Santos
- Generation R Study Group, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Vincent W.V. Jaddoe
- Generation R Study Group, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Akhgar Ghassabian
- Department of Pediatrics, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Leonardo Trasande
- Department of Pediatrics, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- New York University Wagner School of Public Service, New York, New York, USA
- New York University College of Global Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Henning Tiemeier
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, USA
| | - Anjoeka Pronk
- Department of Risk Analysis for Products in Development, TNO, Utrecht, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Balci A, Ozkemahli G, Erkekoglu P, Zeybek ND, Yersal N, Kocer-Gumusel B. Histopathologic, apoptotic and autophagic, effects of prenatal bisphenol A and/or di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate exposure on prepubertal rat testis. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:20104-20116. [PMID: 32239407 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-08274-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) and di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) are endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) used in a wide variety of industrial products as plasticizers. Exposure to EDCs, particularly in mixtures, in prenatal and early postnatal periods may lead to unwanted effects and can cause both developmental and reproductive problems. In this study, we aimed to determine the individual and combined effects of prenatal and lactational exposure to BPA and/or DEHP on testicular histology, apoptosis, and autophagic proteins. Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 3) were divided into four groups (control, BPA (50 mg/kg/day), DEHP (30 mg/kg/day), and BPA (50 mg/kg/day) + DEHP (30 mg/kg/day)) and dosed by oral gavage during pregnancy and lactation. The male offspring (n = 6) from each group were chosen randomly, and their testicular examinations were performed on the twelfth week. The results showed that fetal and neonatal exposure to BPA and DEHP could lead to significant testicular histopathological alterations and cause increases in apoptosis markers (as evidenced by increases in caspase 3 and caspase 8 levels; increased TUNEL-positive spermatogonia and TUNEL-positive testicular apoptotic cells) and autophagic proteins (as evidenced by increased LC3 and Beclin levels and decreased p62 levels) in testicular tissue. We can suggest that EDCs cause more dramatic changes in both testicular structure and cell death when there is combined exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aylin Balci
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Gizem Ozkemahli
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Toxicology, Erzincan Binali Yıldırım University, Erzincan, Turkey
| | - Pinar Erkekoglu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Naciye Dilara Zeybek
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Nilgun Yersal
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Belma Kocer-Gumusel
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Lokman Hekim University, Ankara, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Barakat R, Lin PC, Park CJ, Zeineldin M, Zhou S, Rattan S, Brehm E, Flaws JA, Ko CJ. Germline-dependent transmission of male reproductive traits induced by an endocrine disruptor, di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate, in future generations. Sci Rep 2020; 10:5705. [PMID: 32235866 PMCID: PMC7109079 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-62584-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In males, defective reproductive traits induced by an exposure to an endocrine disruptor are transmitted to future generations via epigenetic modification of the germ cells. Interestingly, the impacted future generations display a wide range of heterogeneity in their reproductive traits. In this study, the role that the Y chromosome plays in creating such heterogeneity is explored by testing the hypothesis that the Y chromosome serves as a carrier of the exposure impact to future generations. This hypothesis implies that a male who has a Y chromosome that is from a male that was exposed to an endocrine disruptor will display a more severe reproductive phenotype than a male whose Y chromosome is from an unexposed male. To test this hypothesis, we used a mouse model in which F1 generation animals were exposed prenatally to an endocrine disruptor, di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), and the severity of impacted reproductive traits was compared between the F3 generation males that were descendants of F1 males (paternal lineage) and those from F1 females (maternal lineage). Pregnant dams (F0 generation) were exposed to the vehicle or 20 or 200 μg/kg/day of DEHP from gestation day 11 until birth. Paternal lineage F3 DEHP males exhibited decreased fertility, testicular steroidogenic capacity, and spermatogenesis that were more severely impaired than those of maternal lineage males. Indeed, testicular transcriptome analysis found that a number of Y chromosomal genes had altered expression patterns in the paternal lineage males. This transgenerational difference in the DEHP impact can be attributed specifically to the Y chromosome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Radwa Barakat
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61802, USA
- Department of Toxicology and Forensic Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Qalyubia, Benha, 13518, Egypt
| | - Po-Ching Lin
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61802, USA
| | - Chan Jin Park
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61802, USA
| | - Mohamed Zeineldin
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Sherry Zhou
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61802, USA
| | - Saniya Rattan
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61802, USA
| | - Emily Brehm
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61802, USA
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61802, USA
| | - CheMyong J Ko
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61802, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Di Lorenzo M, Winge SB, Svingen T, De Falco M, Boberg J. Intrauterine exposure to diethylhexyl phthalate disrupts gap junctions in the fetal rat testis. Curr Res Toxicol 2020; 1:5-11. [PMID: 34345832 PMCID: PMC8320622 DOI: 10.1016/j.crtox.2020.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Fetal exposure to certain phthalate esters can disrupt testis development in rodents and lead to male reproductive disorders, but with a causal link less certain in humans. Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is one of the most common phthalates found in the environment and in rodents it is known to induce serious testis toxicity, as well as male reproductive disorders including cryptorchidism, hypospadias, impaired spermatogenesis and reduced fertility. In this study, we show that perinatal DEHP exposure disrupts gap junction localization in fetal and postnatal rat testis and correlate these findings to morphological changes. The protein Connexin 43 (CX43), normally expressed strongly in testicular gap junctions, was markedly downregulated in Leydig cells of DEHP-exposed fetal testes. In the postnatal testes, CX43 expression was recovered in the DEHP-exposed animals, even though Leydig cell clusters and malformed cords with intratubular Leydig cells were still present. DEHP disrupts gap junction localization in fetal and postnatal rat testis. DEHP exposure reduces Cx43-positive gap junctions in Leydig cell clusters in fetal rat testis. Leydig cell gap junctions recover in postnatal testis after early life DEHP exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sofia Boeg Winge
- Division of Diet, Disease Prevention and Toxicology, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Terje Svingen
- Division of Diet, Disease Prevention and Toxicology, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Maria De Falco
- Department of Biology, University Federico II of Naples, Naples, Italy.,National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems (INBB), Rome, Italy
| | - Julie Boberg
- Division of Diet, Disease Prevention and Toxicology, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby DK-2800, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|