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Li X, Kong L, Pan J, Liu H, Wang C, Xu S, Liu W, Sun J. N-acetylcysteine protects against neurodevelopmental injuries induced by methylmercury exposure during pregnancy and lactation. Brain Res 2024; 1827:148761. [PMID: 38211826 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2024.148761] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
As an extremely dangerous environmental contaminant, methylmercury (MeHg) results in detrimental health effects in human brain nervous system, one of its main targets. However, as a developmental toxicant, the brain of offspring is vulnerable to MeHg during pregnancy and lactation exposure. Unfortunately, mechanisms of neurodevelopmental injuries induced by MeHg have not been fully elucidated. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has been used for several decades as an antioxidant to antagonize oxidative stress. However, the molecular mechanisms of NAC alleviating MeHg-induced neurodevelopmental toxicity are not clear. Here, for evaluation of the dose-dependent effects of MeHg exposure on neurodevelopmental injuries of offspring, and the possible protective effects of NAC, the pregnant female mice were exposed to MeHg (4, 8, 12 mg/L, respectively) and NAC (50, 100, 150 mg/kg, respectively) from gestational day 1 (GD1) to postnatal day 21 (PND21). Our results indicated that administering MeHg caused behavioral impairment and neuronal injuries in the cerebral cortex of newborn mice. MeHg dose-dependently caused reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction and oxidative stress aggravation, together with expression of Nrf2, HO-1, Notch1, and p21 up-regulation, and CDK2 inhibition. NAC treatment dose-dependently antagonized MeHg-induced oxidative stress that may contribute to alleviating neurobehavioral and neurodevelopmental impairments. These results give insight into that NAC can protect against MeHg-induced neurodevelopmental toxicity by its antioxidation capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyang Li
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Lingxu Kong
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Jingjing Pan
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Haihui Liu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Si Xu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Jingyi Sun
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, PR China.
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Granitzer S, Widhalm R, Atteneder S, Fernandez MF, Mustieles V, Zeisler H, Hengstschläger M, Gundacker C. BDNF and KISS-1 Levels in Maternal Serum, Umbilical Cord, and Placenta: The Potential Role of Maternal Levels as Effect Biomarker. EXPOSURE AND HEALTH 2023:1-17. [PMID: 37360514 PMCID: PMC10225291 DOI: 10.1007/s12403-023-00565-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and kisspeptin-1 (KISS-1) regulate placental development and fetal growth. The predictive value of maternal serum BDNF and KISS-1 concentrations for placental and umbilical cord levels has not yet been explored. The influence of prenatal lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) exposure and maternal iron status on BDNF and KISS-1 levels is also unclarified and of concern. In a pilot cross-sectional study with 65 mother-newborn pairs, we analyzed maternal and cord serum levels of pro-BDNF, mature BDNF, and KISS-1, BDNF, and KISS-1 gene expression in placenta, Pb and Cd in maternal and umbilical cord blood (erythrocytes), and placenta. We conducted a series of in vitro experiments using human primary trophoblast cells (hTCs) and BeWo cells to verify main findings of the epidemiological analysis. Strong and consistent correlations were observed between maternal serum levels of pro-BDNF, mature BDNF, and KISS-1 and corresponding levels in umbilical serum and placental tissue. Maternal red blood cell Pb levels were inversely correlated with serum and placental KISS-1 levels. Lower expression and release of KISS-1 was also observed in Pb-exposed BeWo cells. In vitro Pb exposure also reduced cellular BDNF levels. Cd-treated BeWo cells showed increased pro-BDNF levels. Low maternal iron status was positively associated with low BDNF levels. Iron-deficient hTCs and BeWo cells showed a consistent decrease in the release of mature BDNF. The correlations between maternal BDNF and KISS-1 levels, placental gene expression, and umbilical cord serum levels, respectively, indicate the strong potential of maternal serum as predictive matrix for BDNF and KISS-1 levels in placentas and fetal sera. Pb exposure and iron status modulate BDNF and KISS-1 levels, but a clear direction of modulations was not evident. The associations need to be confirmed in a larger sample and validated in terms of placental and neurodevelopmental function. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12403-023-00565-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Granitzer
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Strasse 10, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Exposome Austria, Research Infrastructure and National EIRENE Hub, Vienna, Austria
| | - Raimund Widhalm
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Strasse 10, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Exposome Austria, Research Infrastructure and National EIRENE Hub, Vienna, Austria
| | - Simon Atteneder
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Strasse 10, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Mariana F. Fernandez
- Center for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (Ibs.GRANADA), Granada, Spain
- Consortium for Research and Public Health (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Vicente Mustieles
- Center for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (Ibs.GRANADA), Granada, Spain
- Consortium for Research and Public Health (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Harald Zeisler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Markus Hengstschläger
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Strasse 10, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Claudia Gundacker
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Strasse 10, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Exposome Austria, Research Infrastructure and National EIRENE Hub, Vienna, Austria
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Azevedo LF, Karpova N, Rocha BA, Barbosa Junior F, Gobe GC, Hornos Carneiro MF. Evidence on Neurotoxicity after Intrauterine and Childhood Exposure to Organomercurials. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1070. [PMID: 36673825 PMCID: PMC9858833 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Although the molecular mechanisms underlying methylmercury toxicity are not entirely understood, the observed neurotoxicity in early-life is attributed to the covalent binding of methylmercury to sulfhydryl (thiol) groups of proteins and other molecules being able to affect protein post-translational modifications from numerous molecular pathways, such as glutamate signaling, heat-shock chaperones and the antioxidant glutaredoxin/glutathione system. However, for other organomercurials such as ethylmercury or thimerosal, there is not much information available. Therefore, this review critically discusses current knowledge about organomercurials neurotoxicity-both methylmercury and ethylmercury-following intrauterine and childhood exposure, as well as the prospects and future needs for research in this area. Contrasting with the amount of epidemiological evidence available for methylmercury, there are only a few in vivo studies reporting neurotoxic outcomes and mechanisms of toxicity for ethylmercury or thimerosal. There is also a lack of studies on mechanistic approaches to better investigate the pathways involved in the potential neurotoxicity caused by both organomercurials. More impactful follow-up studies, especially following intrauterine and childhood exposure to ethylmercury, are necessary. Childhood vaccination is critically important for controlling infectious diseases; however, the safety of mercury-containing thimerosal and, notably, its effectiveness as preservative in vaccines are still under debate regarding its potential dose-response effects to the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Ferreira Azevedo
- Department of Clinical Analyses, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Nina Karpova
- Department of Clinical Analyses, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Bruno Alves Rocha
- Department of Clinical Analyses, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernando Barbosa Junior
- Department of Clinical Analyses, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Glenda Carolyn Gobe
- Kidney Disease Research Group, School of Medicine, Translational Research Institute, University of Queensland, 37 Kent Street, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Maria Fernanda Hornos Carneiro
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 7820436, Chile
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Cho CH, Park SI, Huang TY, Lee Y, Ciniglia C, Yadavalli HC, Yang SW, Bhattacharya D, Yoon HS. Genome-wide signatures of adaptation to extreme environments in red algae. Nat Commun 2023; 14:10. [PMID: 36599855 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35566-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The high temperature, acidity, and heavy metal-rich environments associated with hot springs have a major impact on biological processes in resident cells. One group of photosynthetic eukaryotes, the Cyanidiophyceae (Rhodophyta), has successfully thrived in hot springs and associated sites worldwide for more than 1 billion years. Here, we analyze chromosome-level assemblies from three representative Cyanidiophyceae species to study environmental adaptation at the genomic level. We find that subtelomeric gene duplication of functional genes and loss of canonical eukaryotic traits played a major role in environmental adaptation, in addition to horizontal gene transfer events. Shared responses to environmental stress exist in Cyanidiales and Galdieriales, however, most of the adaptive genes (e.g., for arsenic detoxification) evolved independently in these lineages. Our results underline the power of local selection to shape eukaryotic genomes that may face vastly different stresses in adjacent, extreme microhabitats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chung Hyun Cho
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Seung In Park
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Tzu-Yen Huang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Yongsung Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Claudia Ciniglia
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Hari Chandana Yadavalli
- Department of Systems Biology, Institute of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seong Wook Yang
- Department of Systems Biology, Institute of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
| | | | - Hwan Su Yoon
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea.
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Kozlosky D, Barrett E, Aleksunes LM. Regulation of Placental Efflux Transporters during Pregnancy Complications. Drug Metab Dispos 2022; 50:1364-1375. [PMID: 34992073 PMCID: PMC9513846 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.121.000449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta is essential for regulating the exchange of solutes between the maternal and fetal circulations. As a result, the placenta offers support and protection to the developing fetus by delivering crucial nutrients and removing waste and xenobiotics. ATP-binding cassette transporters, including multidrug resistance protein 1, multidrug resistance-associated proteins, and breast cancer resistance protein, remove chemicals through active efflux and are considered the primary transporters within the placental barrier. Altered transporter expression at the barrier could result in fetal exposure to chemicals and/or accumulation of xenobiotics within trophoblasts. Emerging data demonstrate that expression of these transporters is changed in women with pregnancy complications, suggesting potentially compromised integrity of placental barrier function. The purpose of this review is to summarize the regulation of placental efflux transporters during medical complications of pregnancy, including 1) placental inflammation/infection and chorioamnionitis, 2) hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, 3) metabolic disorders including gestational diabetes and obesity, and 4) fetal growth restriction/altered fetal size for gestational age. For each disorder, we review the basic pathophysiology and consider impacts on the expression and function of placental efflux transporters. Mechanisms of transporter dysregulation and implications for fetal drug and toxicant exposure are discussed. Understanding how transporters are up- or downregulated during pathology is important in assessing possible exposures of the fetus to potentially harmful chemicals in the environment as well as the disposition of novel therapeutics intended to treat placental and fetal diseases. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Diseases of pregnancy are associated with reduced expression of placental barrier transporters that may impact fetal pharmacotherapy and exposure to dietary and environmental toxicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Kozlosky
- Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology (D.K.) and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy (D.K., L.M.A.), Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Piscataway, New Jersey (E.B., L.M.A.); Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey (E.B.); and Center for Lipid Research, New Jersey Institute for Food, Nutrition, and Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey (L.M.A.)
| | - Emily Barrett
- Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology (D.K.) and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy (D.K., L.M.A.), Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Piscataway, New Jersey (E.B., L.M.A.); Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey (E.B.); and Center for Lipid Research, New Jersey Institute for Food, Nutrition, and Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey (L.M.A.)
| | - Lauren M Aleksunes
- Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology (D.K.) and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy (D.K., L.M.A.), Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Piscataway, New Jersey (E.B., L.M.A.); Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey (E.B.); and Center for Lipid Research, New Jersey Institute for Food, Nutrition, and Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey (L.M.A.)
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6
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Khavinson V, Linkova N, Kozhevnikova E, Dyatlova A, Petukhov M. Transport of Biologically Active Ultrashort Peptides Using POT and LAT Carriers. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147733. [PMID: 35887081 PMCID: PMC9323678 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Ultrashort peptides (USPs), consisting of 2–7 amino-acid residues, are a group of signaling molecules that regulate gene expression and protein synthesis under normal conditions in various diseases and ageing. USPs serve as a basis for the development of drugs with a targeted mechanism of action. The purpose of this review is to systematize the available data on USP transport involving POT and LAT transporters in various organs and tissues under normal, pathological and ageing conditions. The carriers of the POT family (PEPT1, PEPT2, PHT1, PHT2) transport predominantly di- and tripeptides into the cell. Methods of molecular modeling and physicochemistry have demonstrated the ability of LAT1 to transfer not only amino acids but also some di- and tripeptides into the cell and out of it. LAT1 and 2 are involved in the regulation of the antioxidant, endocrine, immune and nervous systems’ functions. Analysis of the above data allows us to conclude that, depending on their structure, di- and tripeptides can be transported into the cells of various tissues by POT and LAT transporters. This mechanism is likely to underlie the tissue specificity of peptides, their geroprotective action and effectiveness in the case of neuroimmunoendocrine system disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Khavinson
- Department of Biogerontology, Saint Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology, 197110 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (N.L.); (E.K.); (A.D.)
- Group of Peptide Regulation of Aging, Pavlov Institute of Physiology of Russian Academy of Sciences, 199034 Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +7-(921)-9110800
| | - Natalia Linkova
- Department of Biogerontology, Saint Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology, 197110 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (N.L.); (E.K.); (A.D.)
- The Laboratory “Problems of Aging”, Belgorod National Research University, 308015 Belgorod, Russia
| | - Ekaterina Kozhevnikova
- Department of Biogerontology, Saint Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology, 197110 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (N.L.); (E.K.); (A.D.)
| | - Anastasiia Dyatlova
- Department of Biogerontology, Saint Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology, 197110 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (N.L.); (E.K.); (A.D.)
| | - Mikhael Petukhov
- Petersburg Nuclear Physics Institute Named after B.P. Konstantinov, NRC “Kurchatov Institute”, 188300 Gatchina, Russia;
- Peter the Great St. Petersburg Group of Biophysics, Higher Engineering and Technical School, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, 195251 Saint Petersburg, Russia
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Zhang L, Wang B, Shen H, Zhang H, Liu X, Zhong L, Liu D, Jiang D, Zhu Y, Zhu B, Han L. Factors Influencing Trace Element Levels in the Blood of Tin Smelting Workers. J Occup Environ Med 2022; 64:e403-e408. [PMID: 35673257 PMCID: PMC9301975 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study is to assess the correlation between blood concentration ranges of eight elements of tin smelting workers from Guangxi Liuzhou and their job type, working years, age, and sex. METHODS We collected blood samples of 218 tin smelting workers from a Chinese tin smelting factory and determined the levels of elements by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. RESULTS Within the blood concentrations of eight metal elements of the objects, the blood concentration of copper and zinc is affected by the job type of comprehensive work; that of arsenic and mercury is affected by refining; and that of chromium, cadmium, and lead is affected by primary smelting. CONCLUSIONS We present the remarkable influence of four job types on the blood concentration of seven trace elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludi Zhang
- From the Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, H. Zhang, X. Liu, Zhong, D. Liu, Jiang, Y. Zhu, B. Zhu, and Han); and Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, and B. Zhu), Nanjing; Kunshan Municipal Center for Disease Prevention and Control (Dr Shen); Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University (Dr B. Zhu); and Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Public Health Emergency (Dr B. Zhu), China
| | - Boshen Wang
- From the Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, H. Zhang, X. Liu, Zhong, D. Liu, Jiang, Y. Zhu, B. Zhu, and Han); and Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, and B. Zhu), Nanjing; Kunshan Municipal Center for Disease Prevention and Control (Dr Shen); Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University (Dr B. Zhu); and Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Public Health Emergency (Dr B. Zhu), China
| | - Huanxi Shen
- From the Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, H. Zhang, X. Liu, Zhong, D. Liu, Jiang, Y. Zhu, B. Zhu, and Han); and Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, and B. Zhu), Nanjing; Kunshan Municipal Center for Disease Prevention and Control (Dr Shen); Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University (Dr B. Zhu); and Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Public Health Emergency (Dr B. Zhu), China
| | - Hengdong Zhang
- From the Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, H. Zhang, X. Liu, Zhong, D. Liu, Jiang, Y. Zhu, B. Zhu, and Han); and Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, and B. Zhu), Nanjing; Kunshan Municipal Center for Disease Prevention and Control (Dr Shen); Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University (Dr B. Zhu); and Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Public Health Emergency (Dr B. Zhu), China
| | - Xin Liu
- From the Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, H. Zhang, X. Liu, Zhong, D. Liu, Jiang, Y. Zhu, B. Zhu, and Han); and Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, and B. Zhu), Nanjing; Kunshan Municipal Center for Disease Prevention and Control (Dr Shen); Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University (Dr B. Zhu); and Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Public Health Emergency (Dr B. Zhu), China
| | - Lixin Zhong
- From the Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, H. Zhang, X. Liu, Zhong, D. Liu, Jiang, Y. Zhu, B. Zhu, and Han); and Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, and B. Zhu), Nanjing; Kunshan Municipal Center for Disease Prevention and Control (Dr Shen); Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University (Dr B. Zhu); and Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Public Health Emergency (Dr B. Zhu), China
| | - Deye Liu
- From the Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, H. Zhang, X. Liu, Zhong, D. Liu, Jiang, Y. Zhu, B. Zhu, and Han); and Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, and B. Zhu), Nanjing; Kunshan Municipal Center for Disease Prevention and Control (Dr Shen); Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University (Dr B. Zhu); and Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Public Health Emergency (Dr B. Zhu), China
| | - Dong Jiang
- From the Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, H. Zhang, X. Liu, Zhong, D. Liu, Jiang, Y. Zhu, B. Zhu, and Han); and Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, and B. Zhu), Nanjing; Kunshan Municipal Center for Disease Prevention and Control (Dr Shen); Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University (Dr B. Zhu); and Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Public Health Emergency (Dr B. Zhu), China
| | - Yong Zhu
- From the Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, H. Zhang, X. Liu, Zhong, D. Liu, Jiang, Y. Zhu, B. Zhu, and Han); and Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, and B. Zhu), Nanjing; Kunshan Municipal Center for Disease Prevention and Control (Dr Shen); Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University (Dr B. Zhu); and Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Public Health Emergency (Dr B. Zhu), China
| | - Baoli Zhu
- From the Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, H. Zhang, X. Liu, Zhong, D. Liu, Jiang, Y. Zhu, B. Zhu, and Han); and Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, and B. Zhu), Nanjing; Kunshan Municipal Center for Disease Prevention and Control (Dr Shen); Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University (Dr B. Zhu); and Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Public Health Emergency (Dr B. Zhu), China
| | - Lei Han
- From the Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, H. Zhang, X. Liu, Zhong, D. Liu, Jiang, Y. Zhu, B. Zhu, and Han); and Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University (Drs L. Zhang, Wang, and B. Zhu), Nanjing; Kunshan Municipal Center for Disease Prevention and Control (Dr Shen); Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University (Dr B. Zhu); and Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Public Health Emergency (Dr B. Zhu), China
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8
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Akiyama M, Shinkai Y, Yamakawa H, Kim YG, Kumagai Y. Potentiation of methylmercury toxicity by combined metal exposure: In vitro and in vivo models of a restricted metal exposome. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 299:134374. [PMID: 35318019 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.134374] [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: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a prevalent toxic metal that readily modifies protein thiols. Reactive persulfides that play a role in redox homeostasis are able to inactivate this metal through sulfur adduct formation. Although humans are exposed to other metals that could consume reactive persulfides on a daily basis, the health effects of combined exposure to MeHg and other metals remain unexplored. This study aimed to examine potential MeHg toxicity during exposure to MeHg with other metals capable of consuming reactive persulfides. We designed a simple system to assess the risk of combined exposure to metals based on reactivity to reactive persulfides and mercury accumulation. Among the metals examined in a cell-free system, copper, cadmium, nickel, and MeHg consumed Na2S2, used as a model of reactive persulfides, whereas zinc, iron, lithium, strontium, tin, and aluminum did not. In HepG2 cells, binary exposure to MeHg and copper, but not aluminum, increased the consumption of extracellular reactive persulfides. Binary exposure exacerbated MeHg-induced cytotoxicity by promoting the modification of intracellular proteins by MeHg. In a mouse model, binary exposure to MeHg and copper resulted in elevated mercury accumulation in the fetuses and placenta of pregnant mice, as well as the brain and liver of non-pregnant mice. Our study suggests that MeHg sensitivity can be increased by combined exposure with other electrophilic metals. In particular, binary exposure to MeHg and copper during pregnancy exacerbated mercury accumulation in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Akiyama
- Environmental Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan; Research Center for Drug Discovery, Faculty of Pharmacy and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Keio University, Tokyo, 105-8512, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Shinkai
- Environmental Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan; Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Hiroto Yamakawa
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Yun-Gi Kim
- Research Center for Drug Discovery, Faculty of Pharmacy and Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Keio University, Tokyo, 105-8512, Japan
| | - Yoshito Kumagai
- Environmental Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan; Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan.
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9
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The Impact of Oxidative Stress of Environmental Origin on the Onset of Placental Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11010106. [PMID: 35052610 PMCID: PMC8773163 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11010106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS) plays a pivotal role in placental development; however, abnormal loads in oxidative stress molecules may overwhelm the placental defense mechanisms and cause pathological situations. The environment in which the mother evolves triggers an exposure of the placental tissue to chemical, physical, and biological agents of OS, with potential pathological consequences. Here we shortly review the physiological and developmental functions of OS in the placenta, and present a series of environmental pollutants inducing placental oxidative stress, for which some insights regarding the underlying mechanisms have been proposed, leading to a recapitulation of the noxious effects of OS of environmental origin upon the human placenta.
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10
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Transport and Toxicity of Methylmercury-Cysteine in Cultured BeWo Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010394. [PMID: 35008820 PMCID: PMC8745507 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mercury is a heavy metal toxicant that is prevalent throughout the environment. Organic forms of mercury, such as methylmercury (MeHg), can cross the placenta and can lead to lasting detrimental effects in the fetus. The toxicological effects of MeHg on the placenta itself have not been clearly defined. Therefore, the purpose of the current study was to assess the transport of MeHg into placental syncytiotrophoblasts and to characterize the mechanisms by which MeHg exerts its toxic effects. Cultured placental syncytiotrophoblasts (BeWo) were used for these studies. The transport of radioactive MeHg was measured to identify potential mechanisms involved in the uptake of this compound. The toxicological effects of MeHg on BeWo cells were determined by assessing visible pathological change, autophagy, mitochondrial viability, and oxidative stress. The findings of this study suggest that MeHg compounds are transported into BeWo cells primarily by sodium-independent amino acid carriers and organic anion transporters. The MeHg altered mitochondrial function and viability, decreased mitophagy and autophagy, and increased oxidative stress. Exposure to higher concentrations of MeHg inhibited the ability of cells to protect against MeHg-induced injury. The findings show that MeHg is directly toxic to syncytiotrophoblasts and may lead to disruptions in the fetal/maternal transfer of nutrients and wastes.
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11
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Movassagh H, Halchenko Y, Sampath V, Nygaard UC, Jackson B, Robbins D, Li Z, Nadeau KC, Karagas MR. Maternal gestational mercury exposure in relation to cord blood T cell alterations and placental gene expression signatures. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 201:111385. [PMID: 34129869 PMCID: PMC8478717 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.111385] [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: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The immunotoxic impacts of mercury during early life is poorly understood. We investigated the associations between gestational mercury exposure and frequency of cord blood T cells as well as placental gene expression. Frequency of natural Treg cells was positively associated with prenatal and postpartum mercury toenail concentrations. Frequency of NKT and activated naïve Th cells was positively associated with prenatal toenail mercury concentrations and number of maternal silver-mercury dental amalgams, respectively. Placental gene expression analyses revealed distinct gene signatures associated with mercury exposure. Decreased placental expression of a histone demethylase, KDM4DL, was associated with both higher prenatal and postpartum maternal toenail mercury levels among male infants and remained statistically significant after adjustment for fish and seafood consumption. The results suggest that gestational exposure to mercury concentrations contribute to alterations in both T cells and gene expression in placenta at birth. These alterations may inform mechanisms of mercury immunotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesam Movassagh
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Yuliya Halchenko
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine and the Children's Environmental Health and Disease Prevention Research Center at Dartmouth; Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Vanitha Sampath
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Unni C Nygaard
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA; Department of Environmental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health; Oslo, Norway
| | - Brian Jackson
- Department of Earth Sciences, Dartmouth College; Hanover, NH, USA
| | - David Robbins
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine; Miami, FL, USA
| | - Zhigang Li
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine and the Children's Environmental Health and Disease Prevention Research Center at Dartmouth; Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Kari C Nadeau
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
| | - Margaret R Karagas
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine and the Children's Environmental Health and Disease Prevention Research Center at Dartmouth; Hanover, NH, USA
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12
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Gundacker C, Graf-Rohrmeister K, Gencik M, Hengstschläger M, Holoman K, Rosa P, Kroismayr R, Offenthaler I, Plichta V, Reischer T, Teufl I, Raffesberg W, Scharf S, Köhler-Vallant B, Delissen Z, Weiß S, Uhl M. Gene Variants Determine Placental Transfer of Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), Mercury (Hg) and Lead (Pb), and Birth Outcome: Findings From the UmMuKi Bratislava-Vienna Study. Front Genet 2021; 12:664946. [PMID: 34220941 PMCID: PMC8242356 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.664946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), bisphenol A (BPA), lead (Pb), total mercury (THg), and methylmercury (MeHg) can affect fetal development. Factors influencing placental transfer rate of these toxins are poorly investigated. Whether prenatal exposure to pollutants has an effect on birth weight is incompletely understood. We therefore aimed (1) to determine placental transfer rates of PFAS, BPA, Pb, THg, and MeHg, (2) to analyze relationships between fetal exposure and birth outcome and (3) to analyze gene variants as mediators of placental transfer rates and birth outcome. Two hundred healthy pregnant women and their newborns participated in the study. BPA, 16 PFAS, THg, MeHg, and Pb were determined using HPLCMS/MS (BPA, PFAS), HPLC-CV-ICPMS (MeHg), CV-AFS (THg), and GF-AAS (Pb). Questionnaires and medical records were used to survey exposure sources and birth outcome. 20 single nucleotide polymorphisms and two deletion polymorphisms were determined by real-time PCR from both maternal and newborn blood. Genotype-phenotype associations were analyzed by categorical regression and logistic regression analysis. Specific gene variants were associated with altered placental transfer of PFAS (ALAD Lys59Asn, ABCG2 Gln141Lys), THg (UGT Tyr85Asp, GSTT1del, ABCC1 rs246221) and Pb (GSTP1 Ala114Val). A certain combination of three gene polymorphisms (ABCC1 rs246221, GCLM rs41303970, HFE His63Asp) was over-represented in newborns small for gestational age. 36% of Austrian and 75% of Slovakian mothers had levels exceeding the HBM guidance value I (2 μg/L) of the German HBM Commission for PFOA. 13% of newborns and 39% of women had Ery-Pb levels above 24 μg/kg, an approximation for the BMDL01 of 12 μg/L set by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Our findings point to the need to minimize perinatal exposures to protect fetal health, especially those genetically predisposed to increased transplacental exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Gundacker
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | | | - Karol Holoman
- University Hospital Bratislava-Ružinov, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Petra Rosa
- University Hospital Bratislava-Ružinov, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Renate Kroismayr
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien, Vienna, Austria.,Environment Agency Austria, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Veronika Plichta
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Austrian Agency for Food and Health Safety, Vienna, Austria
| | - Theresa Reischer
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Isabella Teufl
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | | | - Zoja Delissen
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Medgene, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | | | - Maria Uhl
- Environment Agency Austria, Vienna, Austria
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13
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Mechanisms of oxidative stress in methylmercury-induced neurodevelopmental toxicity. Neurotoxicology 2021; 85:33-46. [PMID: 33964343 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2021.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a long-lasting organic environmental pollutant that poses a great threat to human health. Ingestion of seafood containing MeHg is the most important way by which it comes into contact with human body, where the central nervous system (CNS) is the primary target of MeHg toxicity. During periods of pre-plus postnatal, in particular, the brain of offspring is vulnerable to specific developmental insults that result in abnormal neurobehavioral development, even without symptoms in mothers. While many studies on neurotoxic effects of MeHg on the developing brain have been conducted, the mechanisms of oxidative stress in MeHg-induced neurodevelopmental toxicity is less clear. Hitherto, no single process can explain the many effects observed in MeHg-induced neurodevelopmental toxicity. This review summarizes the possible mechanisms of oxidative stress in MeHg-induced neurodevelopmental toxicity, highlighting modulation of Nrf2/Keap1/Notch1, PI3K/AKT, and PKC/MAPK molecular pathways as well as some preventive drugs, and thus contributes to the discovery of endogenous and exogenous molecules that can counteract MeHg-induced neurodevelopmental toxicity.
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14
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Michelsen-Correa S, Martin CF, Kirk AB. Evaluation of Fetal Exposures to Metals and Metalloids through Meconium Analyses: A Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18041975. [PMID: 33670707 PMCID: PMC7922990 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18041975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
This paper surveys the existing scientific literature on metals concentrations in meconium. We examine some 32 papers that analyzed meconium for aluminum, arsenic, barium, calcium, chromium, copper, iron, lithium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, lead, mercury, manganese, molybdenum, nickel, phosphorus, lead, antimony, selenium, tin, vanadium, and zinc. Because of the lack of detail in the statistics it is not possible to do a rigorous meta-analysis. What stands out is that almost every study had subjects with seemingly large amounts of at least one of the metals. The significance of metals in meconium is not clear beyond an indication of exposure although some studies have correlated metals in meconium to a number of adverse outcomes. A number of outstanding questions have been identified that, if resolved, would greatly increase the utility of meconium analysis for assessment of long-term gestational metals exposures. Among these are questions of the developmental and long-term significance of metals detected in meconium, the kinetics and interactions among metals in maternal and fetal compartments and questions on best methods for meconium analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephani Michelsen-Correa
- AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellow Hosted by EPA Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention, Biopesticides and Pollution Prevention Division, Washington, DC 20004, USA;
| | - Clyde F. Martin
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Andrea B. Kirk
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA;
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15
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Granitzer S, Widhalm R, Forsthuber M, Ellinger I, Desoye G, Hengstschläger M, Zeisler H, Salzer H, Gundacker C. Amino Acid Transporter LAT1 (SLC7A5) Mediates MeHg-Induced Oxidative Stress Defense in the Human Placental Cell Line HTR-8/SVneo. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041707. [PMID: 33567754 PMCID: PMC7915079 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The placental barrier can protect the fetus from contact with harmful substances. The potent neurotoxin methylmercury (MeHg), however, is very efficiently transported across the placenta. Our previous data suggested that L-type amino acid transporter (LAT)1 is involved in placental MeHg uptake, accepting MeHg-L-cysteine conjugates as substrate due to structural similarity to methionine. The aim of the present study was to investigate the antioxidant defense of placental cells to MeHg exposure and the role of LAT1 in this response. When trophoblast-derived HTR-8/SVneo cells were LAT1 depleted by siRNA-mediated knockdown, they accumulated less MeHg. However, they were more susceptible to MeHg-induced toxicity. This was evidenced in decreased cell viability at a usually noncytotoxic concentration of 0.03 µM MeHg (~6 µg/L). Treatment with ≥0.3 µM MeHg increased cytotoxicity, apoptosis rate, and oxidative stress of HTR-8/SVneo cells. These effects were enhanced under LAT1 knockdown. Reduced cell number was seen when MeHg-exposed cells were cultured in medium low in cysteine, a constituent of the tripeptide glutathione (GSH). Because LAT1-deficient HTR-8/SVneo cells have lower GSH levels than control cells (independent of MeHg treatment), we conclude that LAT1 is essential for de novo synthesis of GSH, required to counteract oxidative stress. Genetic predisposition to decreased LAT1 function combined with MeHg exposure could increase the risk of placental damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Granitzer
- Karl-Landsteiner Private University for Health Sciences, A-3500 Krems, Austria; (S.G.); (R.W.)
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria; (M.F.); (M.H.)
| | - Raimund Widhalm
- Karl-Landsteiner Private University for Health Sciences, A-3500 Krems, Austria; (S.G.); (R.W.)
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria; (M.F.); (M.H.)
| | - Martin Forsthuber
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria; (M.F.); (M.H.)
| | - Isabella Ellinger
- Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Gernot Desoye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, A-8036 Graz, Austria;
| | - Markus Hengstschläger
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria; (M.F.); (M.H.)
| | - Harald Zeisler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Hans Salzer
- Clinical Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Tulln, A-3430 Tulln, Austria;
| | - Claudia Gundacker
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria; (M.F.); (M.H.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +43-1-40160-56503
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16
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Li M, Yang T, Gao L, Xu H. An inadvertent issue of human retina exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals: A safety assessment. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 264:128484. [PMID: 33022499 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are a group of chemical compounds that present a considerable public health problem due to their pervasiveness and associations with chronic diseases. EDCs can interrupt the endocrine system and interfere with hormone homeostasis, leading to abnormalities in human physiology. Much attention has been focused on the adverse effects EDCs have on the reproductive system, neurogenesis, neuroendocrine system, and thyroid dysfunction. The eye is usually directly exposed to the surrounding environment; however, the influences of EDCs on the eye have received comparatively little attention. Ocular diseases, such as ocular surface diseases and retinal diseases, have been implicated in hormone deficiency or excess. Epidemiologic studies have shown that EDC exposure not only causes ocular surface disorders, such as dry eye, but also associates with visual deficits and retinopathy. EDCs can pass through the human blood-retinal barrier and enter the neural retina, and can then accumulate in the retina. The retina is an embryologic extension of the central nervous system, and is extremely sensitive and vulnerable to EDCs that could be passed across the placenta during critical periods of retinal development. Subtle alterations in the retinal development process usually result in profound immediate, long-term, and delayed effects late in life. This review, based on extensive literature survey, briefly summarizes the current knowledge about the impact of representative manufactured EDCs on retinal toxicity, including retinal structure alterations and dysfunction. We also highlight the potential mechanism of action of EDCs on the retina, and the predictive retinal models of EDC exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minghui Li
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China; Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, China
| | - Tian Yang
- Department of Cold Environmental Medicine, College of High Altitude Military Medicine, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Lixiong Gao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Third Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Haiwei Xu
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China; Key Lab of Visual Damage and Regeneration & Restoration of Chongqing, Chongqing, China.
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17
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Granitzer S, Ellinger I, Khan R, Gelles K, Widhalm R, Hengstschläger M, Zeisler H, Desoye G, Tupova L, Ceckova M, Salzer H, Gundacker C. In vitro function and in situ localization of Multidrug Resistance-associated Protein (MRP)1 (ABCC1) suggest a protective role against methyl mercury-induced oxidative stress in the human placenta. Arch Toxicol 2020; 94:3799-3817. [PMID: 32915249 PMCID: PMC7603445 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-020-02900-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Methyl mercury (MeHg) is an organic highly toxic compound that is transported efficiently via the human placenta. Our previous data suggest that MeHg is taken up into placental cells by amino acid transporters while mercury export from placental cells mainly involves ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporters. We hypothesized that the ABC transporter multidrug resistance-associated protein (MRP)1 (ABCC1) plays an essential role in mercury export from the human placenta. Transwell transport studies with MRP1-overexpressing Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK)II cells confirmed the function of MRP1 in polarized mercury efflux. Consistent with this, siRNA-mediated MRP1 gene knockdown in the human placental cell line HTR-8/SVneo resulted in intracellular mercury accumulation, which was associated with reduced cell viability, accompanied by increased cytotoxicity, apoptosis, and oxidative stress as determined via the glutathione (GSH) status. In addition, the many sources claiming different localization of MRP1 in the placenta required a re-evaluation of its localization in placental tissue sections by immunofluorescence microscopy using an MRP1-specific antibody that was validated in-house. Taken together, our results show that (1) MRP1 preferentially mediates apical-to-basolateral mercury transport in epithelial cells, (2) MRP1 regulates the GSH status of placental cells, (3) MRP1 function has a decisive influence on the viability of placental cells exposed to low MeHg concentrations, and (4) the in situ localization of MRP1 corresponds to mercury transport from maternal circulation to the placenta and fetus. We conclude that MRP1 protects placental cells from MeHg-induced oxidative stress by exporting the toxic metal and by maintaining the placental cells' GSH status in equilibrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Granitzer
- Karl-Landsteiner Private University for Health Sciences, Krems, Austria
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Isabella Ellinger
- Institute of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Rumsha Khan
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Institute of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katharina Gelles
- Institute of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Raimund Widhalm
- Karl-Landsteiner Private University for Health Sciences, Krems, Austria
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Harald Zeisler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gernot Desoye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Lenka Tupova
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Charles University, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Ceckova
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Charles University, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Hans Salzer
- Clinic for Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Tulln, Tulln, Austria
| | - Claudia Gundacker
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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18
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Gundacker C, Ellinger I. The unique applicability of the human placenta to the Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) concept: the placenta provides fundamental insights into human organ functions at multiple levels of biological organization. Reprod Toxicol 2020; 96:273-281. [PMID: 32768559 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2020.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Despite the short lifespan of the human placenta, the proper formation and function of the organ is of crucial importance for fetal development. Placental dysfunction increases the risk of complications for mother and child during pregnancy and childbirth and beyond as it predisposes to fetal programming. The placenta is an upstream organ of the fetus. It performs the functions of fetal lungs, liver, intestines, kidneys and glands as long as these organs are not fully functional. Furthermore, it is the only human organ that is non-invasively available either after elective abortion or after birth. This is a crucial point given that the conceptual framework of Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) requires data on organ function. In vitro and ex vivo placental studies, combined with epidemiological and clinical data on pregnant women, newborns, and infants can uniquely cover all levels of information needed to develop new AOPs and complement existing AOPs related to reproductive toxicity and beyond. To stimulate further research in this area and to support researchers in future studies dealing with the development of AOPs related to the placenta, this review first gives a brief description of placental structure, placental development and relevant pregnancy diseases. The state of knowledge about the available placental models, their particularities and limitations are briefly discussed. Finally, the use of placental research for the development of AOPs is presented with an illustrative example.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Gundacker
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Isabella Ellinger
- Institute for Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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19
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Tupova L, Hirschmugl B, Sucha S, Pilarova V, Székely V, Bakos É, Novakova L, Özvegy-Laczka C, Wadsack C, Ceckova M. Interplay of drug transporters P-glycoprotein (MDR1), MRP1, OATP1A2 and OATP1B3 in passage of maraviroc across human placenta. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 129:110506. [PMID: 32768979 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Special attention is required when pharmacological treatment is indicated for a pregnant woman. P-glycoprotein (MDR1) is a well-known transporter localized in the maternal blood-facing apical membrane of placental syncytiotrophoblast and is considered to play an important role in protecting the developing fetus. Maraviroc, a MDR1 substrate that is registered for treatment of HIV infection, shows a low toxicity profile, suggesting favorable tolerability also if administered to pregnant women. Nevertheless, there is only poor understanding to date regarding the extent to which it permeates across the placental barrier and what are the transport mechanisms involved. Endeavoring to clarify the passage of maraviroc across placenta, we used in this study the method of closed-circuit perfusion of maraviroc across human placental cotyledon. The data obtained confirmed slight involvement of MDR1, but they also suggest possible interaction with other transport system(s) working in the opposite direction from that of MDR1. Complementary in vitro studies, including cellular experiments on choriocarcinoma BeWo cells as well as transporter-overexpressing MDCKII and A431 cell lines and accumulation in placental fresh villous fragments, revealed maraviroc transport by MRP1, OATP1A2, and OATP1B3 transporters. Based on mRNA expression data in the placental tissue, isolated trophoblasts, and fetal endothelial cells, especially MRP1 and OATP1A2 seem to play a crucial role in cooperatively driving maraviroc into placental tissue. By the example of maraviroc, we show here the important interplay of transporters in placental drug handling and its possibility to overcome the MDR1-mediated efflux.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenka Tupova
- Charles University, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Kralove, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Akademika Heyrovskeho 1203, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Birgit Hirschmugl
- Medical University of Graz, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Simona Sucha
- Charles University, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Kralove, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Akademika Heyrovskeho 1203, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Veronika Pilarova
- Charles University, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Kralove, Department of Analytical Chemistry, Akademika Heyrovskeho 1203, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Virág Székely
- Membrane Protein Research Group, Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Magyar tudósok krt. 2., H-1117, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Éva Bakos
- Membrane Protein Research Group, Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Magyar tudósok krt. 2., H-1117, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Lucie Novakova
- Charles University, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Kralove, Department of Analytical Chemistry, Akademika Heyrovskeho 1203, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Csilla Özvegy-Laczka
- Membrane Protein Research Group, Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Magyar tudósok krt. 2., H-1117, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Christian Wadsack
- Medical University of Graz, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Martina Ceckova
- Charles University, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Kralove, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Akademika Heyrovskeho 1203, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.
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Maniero MÁ, Wuilloud RG, Callegari EA, Smichowski PN, Fanelli MA. Metalloproteomics analysis in human mammary cell lines treated with inorganic mercury. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2020; 58:126441. [PMID: 31812871 PMCID: PMC8061084 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2019.126441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The interest in inorganic Hg toxicity and carcinogenicity has been pointed to target organs such as kidney, brain or placenta, but only a few studies have focused on the mammary gland. In this work, analytical combination techniques (SDS-PAGE followed by CV-AFS, and nanoUPLC-ESI-MS/MS) were used to determine proteins that could bind Hg in three human mammary cell lines. Two of them were tumorigenic (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) and the other one was the non-tumorigenic cell line (MCF-10A). There are no studies that provide this kind of information in breast cell lines with IHg treatment. Previously, we described the viability, uptake and the subcellular distribution of Hg in human breast cells and analysis of RNA-seq about the genes that encode proteins which are related to cytotoxicity of Hg. This work provides important protein candidates for further studies of Hg toxicity in the mammary gland, thus expanding our understanding of how environmental contaminants might affect tumor progression and contribute with future therapeutic methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariángeles Ávila Maniero
- Laboratorio de Química Analítica para Investigación y Desarrollo (QUIANID), Instituto Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Padre J. Contreras 1300, 5500, Mendoza, Argentina; Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad Juan Agustín Maza, Lateral Sur del Acceso Este 2245, M5519, Guaymallén, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Rodolfo G Wuilloud
- Laboratorio de Química Analítica para Investigación y Desarrollo (QUIANID), Instituto Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Padre J. Contreras 1300, 5500, Mendoza, Argentina.
| | - Eduardo A Callegari
- BRIN-USDS SOM Proteomics Facility, University of South Dakota, 414 E Clark St, Vermillion, SD, 57069, USA
| | - Patricia N Smichowski
- Comisión Nacional de Energía Atómica, Gerencia Química, CONICET, Av. Gral. Paz 1499, B1650 Villa Maipú, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mariel A Fanelli
- Laboratorio de Oncología, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU-CONICET), Av. Dr. Adrian Ruiz Leal, Mendoza, Argentina
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21
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Chronic kidney disease in pregnant mothers affects maternal and fetal disposition of mercury. Reprod Toxicol 2020; 93:137-145. [PMID: 32084500 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2020.02.005] [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: 08/29/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects over 15 % of the adults in the United States. Pregnant women with CKD present an additional challenge in that they are at increased risk for adverse events such as preterm birth. Exposure to environmental toxicants, such as methylmercury, may exacerbate maternal disease and increase the risk of adverse fetal outcomes. We hypothesized that fetuses of mothers with CKD are more susceptible to accumulation of methylmercury than fetuses of healthy mothers. The current data show that when mothers are in a state of renal insufficiency, uptake of mercury in fetal kidneys is enhanced significantly. Accumulation of Hg in fetal kidneys may be related to the flow of amniotic fluid, maternal handling of Hg, and/or underdeveloped mechanisms for cellular export and urinary excretion. The results of this study indicate that renal insufficiency in mothers leads to significant alterations in the way toxicants such as mercury are handled by maternal and fetal organs.
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Liu L, Liu X. Contributions of Drug Transporters to Blood-Placental Barrier. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1141:505-548. [PMID: 31571173 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-7647-4_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The placenta is the only organ linking two different individuals, mother and fetus, termed as blood-placental barrier. The functions of the blood-placental barrier are to regulate material transfer between the maternal and fetal circulation. The main functional units are the chorionic villi within which fetal blood is separated by only three or four cell layers (placental membrane) from maternal blood in the surrounding intervillous space. A series of drug transporters such as P-glycoprotein (P-GP), breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), multidrug resistance-associated proteins (MRP1, MRP2, MRP3, MRP4, and MRP5), organic anion-transporting polypeptides (OATP4A1, OATP1A2, OATP1B3, and OATP3A1), organic anion transporter 4 (OAT4), organic cation transporter 3 (OCT3), organic cation/carnitine transporters (OCTN1 and OCTN2), multidrug and toxin extrusion 1 (MATE1), and equilibrative nucleoside transporters (ENT1 and ENT2) have been demonstrated on the apical membrane of syncytiotrophoblast, some of which also expressed on the basolateral membrane of syncytiotrophoblast or fetal capillary endothelium. These transporters are involved in transport of most drugs in the placenta, in turn, affecting drug distribution in fetus. Moreover, expressions of these transporters in the placenta often vary along with the gestational ages and are also affected by pathophysiological factor. This chapter will mainly illustrate function and expression of these transporters in placentas, their contribution to drug distribution in fetus, and their clinical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Liu
- China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaodong Liu
- China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.
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Falck AJ, Sundararajan S, Al-Mudares F, Contag SA, Bearer CF. Fetal exposure to mercury and lead from intrauterine blood transfusions. Pediatr Res 2019; 86:510-514. [PMID: 31216568 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-019-0463-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb) exposure during childhood is associated with irreversible neurodevelopmental effects. Fetal exposure to Hg and Pb from intrauterine blood transfusion (IUBT) has not been reported. METHODS Fetal exposure was estimated based on transfusion volume and metal concentration in donor packed red blood cell (PRBCs). As biomarkers to quantify prenatal exposure are unknown, Hg and Pb in donor PRBCs were compared to estimated intravenous (IV) RfDs based on gastrointestinal absorption. RESULTS Three pregnant women received 8 single-donor IUBTs with volumes ranging from 19 to 120 mL/kg. Hg and Pb were present in all donor PRBC units. In all, 1/8 IUBT resulted in Hg dose five times higher than the estimated IV RfD. Median Pb dose in one fetus who received 5 single-donor IUBTs between 20-32 weeks gestation was 3.4 μg/kg (range 0.5-7.9 μg/kg). One donor unit contained 12.9 μg/dL of Pb, resulting in a fetal dose of 7.9 μg/kg, 40 times higher than the estimated IV RfD at 20 weeks gestation. CONCLUSION This is the first study documenting inadvertent exposure to Hg and Pb from IUBT and quantifying the magnitude of exposure. Screening of donor blood is warranted to prevent toxic effects from Hg and Pb to the developing fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison J Falck
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Sripriya Sundararajan
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Stephen A Contag
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Cynthia F Bearer
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Dallmann A, Liu XI, Burckart GJ, van den Anker J. Drug Transporters Expressed in the Human Placenta and Models for Studying Maternal-Fetal Drug Transfer. J Clin Pharmacol 2019; 59 Suppl 1:S70-S81. [PMID: 31502693 PMCID: PMC7304533 DOI: 10.1002/jcph.1491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Tremendous efforts have been directed to investigate the ontogeny of drug transporters in fetuses, neonates, infants, and children based on their importance for understanding drug pharmacokinetics. During development (ie, in the fetus and newborn infant), there is special interest in transporters expressed in the placenta that modulate placental drug transfer. Many of these transporters can decrease or increase drug concentrations in the fetus and at birth, stressing the relevance of elucidating expression in the placenta and potential gestational age-dependent changes therein. Hence, the main objective of this review was to summarize the current knowledge about expression and ontogeny of transporters in the human placenta in healthy pregnant women. In addition, various in vitro, ex vivo, and in silico models that can be used to investigate placental drug transfer, namely, placental cancer cell lines, ex vivo cotyledon perfusion experiments, and physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models, are discussed together with their advantages and shortcomings. A particular focus was placed on PBPK models because these models can integrate different types of information, such as expression data, ontogeny information, and observations obtained from the ex vivo cotyledon perfusion experiment. Such a mechanistic modeling framework may leverage the available information and ultimately help to improve knowledge about the adequacy and safety of pharmacotherapy in pregnant women and their fetuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Dallmann
- Pediatric Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics Research Center, University Children’s Hospital Basel (UKBB), Switzerland
| | - Xiaomei I. Liu
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Gilbert J. Burckart
- US Food and Drug Administration, Office of Clinical Pharmacology, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - John van den Anker
- Pediatric Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics Research Center, University Children’s Hospital Basel (UKBB), Switzerland
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
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Nakamura R, Shirahata T, Konishi N, Takanezawa Y, Sone Y, Uraguchi S, Kobayashi Y, Kiyono M. Oleanolic acid 3-glucoside, a synthetic oleanane-type saponin, alleviates methylmercury toxicity in vitro and in vivo. Toxicology 2019; 417:15-22. [PMID: 30776458 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2019.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 01/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is one of the most toxic environmental pollutants, presenting a serious health hazard worldwide. In this study, we examined the potential of derivatives of oleanolic acid (OA), such as OA 3-glucoside, OA 28-glucoside, and OA 3,28-diglucoside, to mitigate MeHg toxicity in vitro and in vivo. We found that OA 3-glucoside suppressed the cellular MeHg uptake by 63.4% compared with that of the control and improved the cell viability from 75.4% to 107.9% upon exposure to cytotoxic MeHg in Caco-2 cells. To verify the anti-MeHg activity of OA 3-glucoside, mice were orally administered MeHg (0, 1.0, or 5.0 mg kg-1·d-1), with or without OA 3-glucoside, and then mercury accumulation was measured in various organs of the mice. The mice co-treated with MeHg and OA 3-glucoside showed significantly lower mercury content in organs such as the cerebrum, cerebellum, liver, kidney, and spleen, with 83.1%, 68.7%, 71.7%, 82.1%, and 18.2% of those in the OA 3-glucoside-untreated group, respectively. This suggested OA 3-glucoside had the potential as an anti-MeHg compound, owing to its ability to suppress the distribution of MeHg into organs. Supporting this hypothesis, the mice treated with MeHg and OA 3-glucoside showed a tendency to survive one day longer than the control mice. Our findings suggest OA 3-glucoside administration alleviates the toxicity of MeHg by suppressing MeHg accumulation in organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryosuke Nakamura
- School of Pharmacy, Kitasato University, 5-9-1, Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Shirahata
- School of Pharmacy, Kitasato University, 5-9-1, Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan
| | - Naruki Konishi
- School of Pharmacy, Kitasato University, 5-9-1, Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan
| | - Yasukazu Takanezawa
- School of Pharmacy, Kitasato University, 5-9-1, Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan
| | - Yuka Sone
- School of Pharmacy, Kitasato University, 5-9-1, Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan
| | - Shimpei Uraguchi
- School of Pharmacy, Kitasato University, 5-9-1, Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Kobayashi
- School of Pharmacy, Kitasato University, 5-9-1, Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan
| | - Masako Kiyono
- School of Pharmacy, Kitasato University, 5-9-1, Shirokane, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8641, Japan.
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Tucker EK, Nowak RA. Methylmercury alters proliferation, migration, and antioxidant capacity in human HTR8/SV-neo trophoblast cells. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 78:60-68. [PMID: 29581082 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Revised: 03/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Methylmercury, a potent neurotoxin, is able to pass through the placenta, but its effects on the placenta itself have not been elucidated. Using an immortalized human trophoblast cell line, HTR8/SV-neo, we assessed the in vitro toxicity of methylmercury. We found that 1 μg/mL methylmercury decreased viability, proliferation, and migration; and it had effects on antioxidant genes similar to those seen in neural cells. However, methylmercury led to decreased expression of superoxide dismutase 1 and increased expression of surfactant protein D. HTR cells treated 0.01 or 0.1 μg/mL methylmercury had increased migration rates along with decreased expression of an adhesion gene, cadherin 3, suggesting that low doses of methylmercury promote migration in HTR cells. Our results indicate that trophoblast cells react differently to methylmercury relative to neural cell lines, and thus investigation of methylmercury toxicity in placental cells is needed to understand the effects of this heavy metal on the placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily K Tucker
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1207, W. Gregory Dr., Urbana, Illinois, USA.
| | - Romana A Nowak
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1207, W. Gregory Dr., Urbana, Illinois, USA
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27
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Maniero MÁ, Guerrero-Gimenez ME, Fanelli MA, Wuilloud RG. Inorganic mercury in mammary cells: viability, metal uptake but efflux? Biometals 2017; 31:69-80. [DOI: 10.1007/s10534-017-0068-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Methylmercury Uptake into BeWo Cells Depends on LAT2-4F2hc, a System L Amino Acid Transporter. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18081730. [PMID: 28786956 PMCID: PMC5578120 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18081730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Revised: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The organic mercury compound methylmercury (MeHg) is able to target the fetal brain. However, the uptake of the toxicant into placental cells is incompletely understood. MeHg strongly binds to thiol-S containing molecules such as cysteine. This MeHg-l-cysteine exhibits some structural similarity to methionine. System L plays a crucial role in placental transport of essential amino acids such as leucine and methionine and thus has been assumed to also transport MeHg-l-cysteine across the placenta. The uptake of methylmercury and tritiated leucine and methionine into the choriocarcinoma cell line BeWo was examined using transwell assay and small interfering (si)RNA mediated gene knockdown. Upon the downregulation of large neutral amino acids transporter (LAT)2 and 4F2 cell-surface antigen heavy chain (4F2hc), respectively, the levels of [3H]leucine in BeWo cells are significantly reduced compared to controls treated with non-targeting siRNA (p < 0.05). The uptake of [3H]methionine was reduced upon LAT2 down-regulation as well as methylmercury uptake after 4F2hc silencing (p < 0.05, respectively). These findings suggest an important role of system L in the placental uptake of the metal. Comparing the cellular accumulation of mercury, leucine, and methionine, it can be assumed that (1) MeHg is transported through system L amino acid transporters and (2) system L is responsible for the uptake of amino acids and MeHg primarily at the apical membrane of the trophoblast. The findings together can explain why mercury in contrast to other heavy metals such as lead or cadmium is efficiently transported to fetal blood.
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Al-Enazy S, Ali S, Albekairi N, El-Tawil M, Rytting E. Placental control of drug delivery. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2017; 116:63-72. [PMID: 27527665 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2016.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2016] [Revised: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 08/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The placenta serves as the interface between the maternal and fetal circulations and regulates the transfer of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products. When exogenous substances are present in the maternal bloodstream-whether from environmental contact, occupational exposure, medication, or drug abuse-the extent to which this exposure affects the fetus is determined by transport and biotransformation processes in the placental barrier. Advances in drug delivery strategies are expected to improve the treatment of maternal and fetal diseases encountered during pregnancy.
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30
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Kamper M, Mittermayer F, Cabuk R, Gelles K, Ellinger I, Hermann M. Estrogen-enhanced apical and basolateral secretion of apolipoprotein B-100 by polarized trophoblast-derived BeWo cells. Biochimie 2017; 138:116-123. [PMID: 28487135 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2017.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2017] [Accepted: 05/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Cholesterol is an important nutrient for fetal development and transplacental transport occurs at all stages of human pregnancy. Furthermore, cholesterol is required for membrane building as well as steroid hormone synthesis. Therefore, all placental cell types require cholesterol for proper function. In human term placenta, the syncytiotrophoblast (STB) faces the maternal circulation. Uptake of maternal-derived cholesterol at the apical membrane of the STB is well understood, but the route by which cholesterol exits at the basal side for subsequent transfer across the fetal endothelial cells (FEC) or to other placental cell types remains not well characterized. Our aim was to provide evidence for basal secretion of apolipoprotein B-100 (apoB) containing lipoproteins. Furthermore, we investigated the placental localization of apolipoprotein receptors (LRP2, LDLR and LRP1) to identify cell targets of lipoprotein particles secreted in a polarized fashion by the STB. In trophoblast-derived BeWo cells grown on permeable filter supports, we demonstrate by immunoprecipitation apical as well as basolateral apoB secretion, which was significantly upregulated by estrogen-treatment for 24 or 48 h. Furthermore, we showed by immunofluorescence microscopy apoB and microsomal triglyceride transfer protein subunits localization in the STB and placental stromal cells in situ. All investigated receptors were detected by RT-qPCR and western blot in BeWo cells, but only expression of LRP2 was estrogen-inducible. In situ, the multi-ligand receptor LRP2 was expressed exclusively in the cytotrophoblast (CTB), the STB precursor cell type. LDLR and LRP1 localized to trophoblasts as well as stromal cells in situ. In summary, basal apoB secretion by BeWo cells supports the concept of basal lipoprotein particle secretion by placental STB. These lipoprotein particles may serve as cholesterol source for STB precursor cells, the CTBs, as well as all stromal cells of the chorionic villi including FECs, which were herein demonstrated to express apoB receptors, LRP2 and LDLR, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Kamper
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Max F. Perutz Laboratories (MFPL), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Florian Mittermayer
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Max F. Perutz Laboratories (MFPL), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Rosalinda Cabuk
- Institute for Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katharina Gelles
- Institute for Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Isabella Ellinger
- Institute for Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Marcela Hermann
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Max F. Perutz Laboratories (MFPL), Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Bommarito PA, Martin E, Fry RC. Effects of prenatal exposure to endocrine disruptors and toxic metals on the fetal epigenome. Epigenomics 2017; 9:333-350. [PMID: 28234024 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2016-0112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to environmental contaminants during pregnancy has been linked to adverse outcomes at birth and later in life. The link between prenatal exposures and latent health outcomes suggests that these exposures may result in long-term epigenetic reprogramming. Toxic metals and endocrine disruptors are two major classes of contaminants that are ubiquitously present in the environment and represent threats to human health. In this review, we present evidence that prenatal exposures to these contaminants result in fetal epigenomic changes, including altered global DNA methylation, gene-specific CpG methylation and microRNA expression. Importantly, these changes may have functional cellular consequences, impacting health outcomes later in life. Therefore, these epigenetic changes represent a critical mechanism that warrants further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paige A Bommarito
- Department of Environmental Sciences & Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Elizabeth Martin
- Department of Environmental Sciences & Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Rebecca C Fry
- Department of Environmental Sciences & Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.,Curriculum in Toxicology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27516, USA
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32
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Andrade VM, Aschner M, Marreilha dos Santos AP. Neurotoxicity of Metal Mixtures. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2017; 18:227-265. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-60189-2_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Weng Z, Liu Z, Zhang S, Tao H, Ji X. Zinc protection in fetal rats for maternal mercury exposure-induced growth retardation is probably associated with S100B expression. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2016; 43:73-77. [PMID: 27928847 DOI: 10.1111/jog.13175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2016] [Accepted: 08/21/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
AIM The study was conducted to investigate the effects of maternal mercury exposure on fetal rat development and zinc protection in mercury-exposed rats. METHODS Pregnant rats were subjected to zinc sulfate pre-feeding, mercury exposure and zinc sulfate co-feeding. The control rats were administered distilled water. On day 19, the placental weight, overall weight, size and tail length of fetal rats, mercury content and S100B level in the placenta were determined using Western blot analysis. RESULTS Compared with the control, mercury exposure at 2.0 mg/kg.d significantly reduced placental weight and fetal development, resulting in reduced fetal weight, size and tail length, while zinc pre-feeding increased placental weight and other fetal developmental parameters. Compared with mercury exposure, co-feeding with zinc significantly reduced mercury-induced injury in the fetal rats. S100B and mercury content levels were significantly elevated in rats maternally exposed to methylmercury chloride, compared with the unexposed control, while co-feeding with methylmercury chloride and zinc sulfate significantly reduced S100B and mercury levels in the placenta. CONCLUSION Maternal exposure to mercury results in increased S100B in the placenta. Zinc sulfate feeding could reduce S100B and mercury levels, thereby protecting the rats from mercury damage. S100B level may be used to measure the antagonism between zinc and mercury during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhanping Weng
- Department of Obstetrics, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Zonghua Liu
- Department of Obstetrics, Qianfoshan Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shuping Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Hong Tao
- Department of Obstetrics, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Xianghong Ji
- Department of Obstetrics, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
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34
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Genetics of the human placenta: implications for toxicokinetics. Arch Toxicol 2016; 90:2563-2581. [DOI: 10.1007/s00204-016-1816-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2016] [Accepted: 08/04/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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35
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Xu SF, Wu Q, Zhang BB, Li H, Xu YS, Du YZ, Wei LX, Liu J. Comparison of mercury sulfides with mercury chloride and methylmercury on hepatic P450, phase-2 and transporter gene expression in mice. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2016; 37:37-43. [PMID: 27473830 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2016.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2016] [Revised: 05/02/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Zuotai (mainly β-HgS) and Zhusha (also called as cinnabar, mainly α-HgS) are used in traditional medicines in combination with herbs or even drugs in the treatment of various disorders, while mercury chloride (HgCl2) and methylmercury (MeHg) do not have known medical values but are highly toxic. This study aimed to compare the effects of mercury sulfides with HgCl2 and MeHg on hepatic drug processing gene expression. Mice were orally administrated with Zuotai (β-HgS, 30mg/kg), α-HgS (HgS, 30mg/kg), HgCl2 (33.6mg/kg), or MeHg (3.1mg/kg) for 7days, and the expression of genes related to phase-1 drug metabolism (P450), phase-2 conjugation, and phase-3 (transporters) genes were examined. The mercurials at the dose and duration used in the study did not have significant effects on the expression of cytochrome P450 1-4 family genes and the corresponding nuclear receptors, except for a slight increase in PPARα and Cyp4a10 by HgCl2. The expressions of UDP-glucuronosyltransferase and sulfotransferase were increased by HgCl2 and MeHg, but not by Zuotai and HgS. HgCl2 decreased the expression of organic anion transporter (Oatp1a1), but increased Oatp1a4. Both HgCl2 and MeHg increased the expression of multidrug resistance-associated protein genes (Mrp1, Mrp2, Mrp3, and Mrp4). Zuotai and HgS had little effects on these transporter genes. In conclusion, Zuotai and HgS are different from HgCl2 and MeHg in hepatic drug processing gene expression; suggesting that chemical forms of mercury not only affect their disposition and toxicity, but also affect their effects on the expression of hepatic drug processing genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- S F Xu
- Key Laboratory for Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, China
| | - Q Wu
- Key Laboratory for Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, China
| | - B B Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, China
| | - H Li
- Key Laboratory for Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, China
| | - Y S Xu
- Key Laboratory for Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, China
| | - Y Z Du
- Northwest Plateau Institute of biology of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, China
| | - L X Wei
- Northwest Plateau Institute of biology of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xining, China
| | - J Liu
- Key Laboratory for Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical College, Zunyi, China.
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