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Schrenk D, Bignami M, Bodin L, Chipman JK, del Mazo J, Grasl‐Kraupp B, Hogstrand C, Hoogenboom L(R, Leblanc J, Nebbia CS, Ntzani E, Petersen A, Sand S, Schwerdtle T, Vleminckx C, Wallace H, Falandysz J, Hart A, Rose M, Anastassiadou M, Eskes C, Gergelova P, Innocenti M, Rovesti E, Whitty B, Nielsen E. Risks for animal and human health related to the presence of polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) in feed and food. EFSA J 2024; 22:e8640. [PMID: 38476320 PMCID: PMC10928787 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2024.8640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
EFSA was asked for a scientific opinion on the risks for animal and human health related to the presence of polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) in feed and food. The assessment focused on hexaCNs due to very limited data on other PCN congeners. For hexaCNs in feed, 217 analytical results were used to estimate dietary exposures for food-producing and non-food-producing animals; however, a risk characterisation could not be performed because none of the toxicological studies allowed identification of reference points. The oral repeated dose toxicity studies performed in rats with a hexaCN mixture containing all 10 hexaCNs indicated that the critical target was the haematological system. A BMDL20 of 0.05 mg/kg body weight (bw) per day was identified for a considerable decrease in the platelet count. For hexaCNs in food, 2317 analytical results were used to estimate dietary exposures across dietary surveys and age groups. The highest exposure ranged from 0.91 to 29.8 pg/kg bw per day in general population and from 220 to 559 pg/kg bw per day for breast-fed infants with the highest consumption of breast milk. Applying a margin of exposure (MOE) approach, the estimated MOEs for the high dietary exposures ranged from 1,700,000 to 55,000,000 for the general population and from 90,000 to 230,000 for breast-fed infants with the highest consumption of breast milk. These MOEs are far above the minimum MOE of 2000 that does not raise a health concern. Taking account of the uncertainties affecting the assessment, the Panel concluded with at least 99% certainty that dietary exposure to hexaCNs does not raise a health concern for any of the population groups considered. Due to major limitations in the available data, no assessment was possible for genotoxic effects or for health risks of PCNs other than hexaCNs.
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Contini T, Béranger R, Multigner L, Klánová J, Price EJ, David A. A Critical Review on the Opportunity to Use Placenta and Innovative Biomonitoring Methods to Characterize the Prenatal Chemical Exposome. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:15301-15313. [PMID: 37796725 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c04845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Adverse effects associated with chemical exposures during pregnancy include several developmental and reproductive disorders. However, considering the tens of thousands of chemicals present on the market, the effects of chemical mixtures on the developing fetus is still likely underestimated. In this critical review, we discuss the potential to apply innovative biomonitoring methods using high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) on placenta to improve the monitoring of chemical exposure during pregnancy. The physiology of the placenta and its relevance as a matrix for monitoring chemical exposures and their effects on fetal health is first outlined. We then identify several key parameters that require further investigations before placenta can be used for large-scale monitoring in a robust manner. Most critical is the need for standardization of placental sampling. Placenta is a highly heterogeneous organ, and knowledge of the intraplacenta variability of chemical composition is required to ensure unbiased and robust interindividual comparisons. Other important variables include the time of collection, the sex of the fetus, and mode of delivery. Finally, we discuss the first applications of HRMS methods on the placenta to decipher the chemical exposome and describe how the use of placenta can complement biofluids collected on the mother or the fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Contini
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Rémi Béranger
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Luc Multigner
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Jana Klánová
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Elliott J Price
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Arthur David
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
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Reardon AJF, Hajihosseini M, Dinu I, Field CJ, Kinniburgh DW, MacDonald AM, Dewey D, England-Mason G, Martin JW. Maternal co-exposure to mercury and perfluoroalkyl acid isomers and their associations with child neurodevelopment in a Canadian birth cohort. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 178:108087. [PMID: 37454627 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.108087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) within the broader class of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are present in human serum as isomer mixtures, but epidemiological studies have yet to address isomer-specific associations with child development and behavior. OBJECTIVES To examine associations between prenatal exposure to 25 PFAAs, including perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) isomers, and child neurodevelopment among 490 mother-child pairs in a prospective Canadian birth cohort, the Alberta Pregnancy Outcomes and Nutrition (APrON) study. To consider the influence of a classic neurotoxicant, total mercury (THg), based on its likelihood of co-exposure with PFAAs from common dietary sources. METHODS Maternal blood samples were collected in the second trimester and child neurodevelopment was assessed at 2 years of age using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, 3rd Edition (Bayley-III). Linear or curvilinear multiple regression models were used to examine associations between exposures and neurodevelopment outcomes. RESULTS Select PFAAs were associated with lower Cognitive composite scores, including perfluoroheptanoate (PFHpA) (β = -0.88, 95% confidence interval (CI): -1.7, -0.06) and perfluorododecanoate (PFDoA) (β = -2.0, 95% CI: -3.9, -0.01). Non-linear relationships revealed associations of total PFOS (β = -4.4, 95% CI: -8.3, -0.43), and linear-PFOS (β = -4.0, 95% CI: -7.5, -0.57) and 1m-PFOS (β = -1.8, 95% CI: -3.3, -0.24) isomers with lower Language composite scores. Although there was no effect modification, including THg interaction terms in PFAA models revealed negative associations between perfluorononanoate (PFNA) and Motor (β = -3.3, 95% CI: -6.2, -0.33) and Social-Emotional (β = -3.0, 95% CI: -5.6, -0.40) composite scores. DISCUSSION These findings reinforce previous reports of adverse effects of maternal PFAA exposure during pregnancy on child neurodevelopment. The unique hazards posed from isomers of PFOS justify isomer-specific analysis in future studies. To control for possible confounding, mercury co-exposure may be considered in studies of PFAAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony J F Reardon
- Division of Analytical and Environmental Toxicology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Irina Dinu
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Catherine J Field
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - David W Kinniburgh
- Alberta Centre for Toxicology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Amy M MacDonald
- Alberta Centre for Toxicology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Deborah Dewey
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Owerko Centre at the Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Community Health Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gillian England-Mason
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Owerko Centre at the Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jonathan W Martin
- Division of Analytical and Environmental Toxicology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Environmental Sciences, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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Cunha YGDO, do Amaral GCB, Felix AA, Blumberg B, Amato AA. Early-life exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals and autistic traits in childhood and adolescence: a systematic review of epidemiological studies. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1184546. [PMID: 37361542 PMCID: PMC10289191 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1184546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Aims Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) during critical neurodevelopmental windows has been associated with the risk of autistic traits. This systematic review of epidemiological studies examined the association between maternal exposure to EDCs during pregnancy and the risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the offspring. Methods We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar from inception to November 17, 2022, for studies investigating the association between prenatal exposure to EDCs and outcomes related to ASD. Two independent reviewers screened studies for eligibility, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023389386). Results We included 27 observational studies assessing prenatal exposure to phthalates (8 studies), polychlorinated biphenyls (8 studies), organophosphate pesticides (8 studies), phenols (7 studies), perfluoroalkyl substances (6 studies), organochlorine pesticides (5 studies), brominated flame retardants (3 studies), dioxins (1 study), and parabens (1 study). The number of examined children ranged from 77 to 1,556, the age at the assessment of autistic traits ranged from 3 to 14 years, and most studies assessed autistic traits using the Social Responsiveness Scale. All but one study was considered to have a low risk of bias. Overall, there was no association between maternal exposure to specific ECDs during pregnancy and the occurrence of autistic traits in offspring. Conclusions Findings from the epidemiological studies evaluated here do not support an association between prenatal exposure to ECDs and the likelihood of autistic traits in later in life. These findings should not be interpreted as definitive evidence of the absence of neurodevelopment effects of EDCs affecting ASD risk, given the limitations of current studies such as representative exposure assessment, small sample sizes, inadequacy to assess sexually dimorphic effects, or the effects of EDC mixtures. Future studies should carefully address these limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alana Almeida Felix
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Bruce Blumberg
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Angelica Amorim Amato
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
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Dietrich AM, Yao W, Gohlke JM, Gallagher DL. Environmental risks from consumer products: Acceptable drinking water quality can produce unacceptable indoor air quality with ultrasonic humidifier use. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 856:158787. [PMID: 36116655 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The commonly used consumer product of an ultrasonic humidifier (e.g., cool mist humidifier) emits fine particles containing metals from tap water used to fill the humidifier. The objectives are: 1) predict emitted indoor air inhalable metal concentrations produced by an ultrasonic humidifier filled with tap-water containing As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Mn, and Pb in 33 m3 or 72 m3 rooms with varying air exchange rates; 2) calculate daily ingestion and 8-h inhalation average daily dose (ADD) and hazard quotient (HQ) for adults and children (aged 0.25-6 yr); and 3) quantify deposition in respiratory tract via multi-path particle dosimetry (MPPD) model. Mass concentrations of indoor air metals increase proportionally with aqueous metal concentrations in fill water, and are inversely related to ventilation. Inhalation-ADDs are 2 magnitudes lower than ingestion-ADDs, using identical water quality for ingestion and fill-water. However, in the 33 m3, low 0.2/h ventilated room, inhalation-HQs are >1 for children and adults, except for Pb. HQ inhalation risks exceed ingestion risks at drinking water regulated levels for As, Cd, Cr, and Mn. MPPD shows greater dose deposits in lungs of children than adults, and 3 times greater deposited doses in a 33 m3 vs 72 m3 room. Rethinking health effects of drinking water and consumer products to broaden consideration of multiple exposure routes is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea M Dietrich
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
| | - Wenchuo Yao
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Julia M Gohlke
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Daniel L Gallagher
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
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Wei Y, Chen T, Qiu Z, Liu H, Xia Y, Wang Z, Zou R, Liu C. Enhanced lead and copper removal in wastewater by adsorption onto magnesium oxide homogeneously embedded hierarchical porous biochar. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2022; 365:128146. [PMID: 36261111 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2022.128146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Removing non-biodegradable Pb2+ and Cu2+ is the top priority in wastewater purification, while adsorption is a green technology to remove them. Herein, MgO-embedded granular hierarchical porous biochar (HP-MgO@BC) was fabricated by pyrolysis of porous Mg-infused chitosan beads. MgO nanoparticles were homogeneously embedded throughout the hierarchical porous biochar matrix in a high-density and accessible manner, thus providing a large number of easily accessible adsorption sites. Pb2+ and Cu2+ sorption capacities on HP-MgO@BC are 1044.8 and 811.2 mg/g at pH 5, respectively. It could effectively remove Pb2+ and Cu2+ across a broad pH range of 2-7, and show excellent adsorption efficiency in the presence of interfering cations. It also possessed excellent reusability. In the fixed-bed operation, 7880 BV (78.80 L) and 1610 BV (16.10 L) of synthetic Pb2+ and Cu2+ wastewater could be purified by HP-MgO@BC packed column, respectively. The adsorption mechanism involves mineral precipitation, ion exchange, and surface coordination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanfeng Wei
- Ministry of Forestry Bioethanol Research Center, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, PR China
| | - Tao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Zhiyuan Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Huiling Liu
- School of Science, Hunan University of Technology and Business, Changsha 410205, PR China
| | - Yufen Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Zhimin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Ruiying Zou
- Ministry of Forestry Bioethanol Research Center, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha 410004, PR China
| | - Chengbin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China.
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Fernandes AR, Kilanowicz A, Stragierowicz J, Klimczak M, Falandysz J. The toxicological profile of polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 837:155764. [PMID: 35545163 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The legacy of polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) manufactured during the last century continues to persist in the environment, food and humans. Metrological advances have improved characterisation of these occurrences, enabling studies on the effects of exposure to focus on congener groups and individual PCNs. Liver and adipose tissue show the highest retention but significant levels of PCNs are also retained by the brain and nervous system. Molecular configuration appears to influence tissue disposition as well as retention, favouring the higher chlorinated (≥ four chlorines) PCNs while most lower chlorinated molecules readily undergo hydroxylation and excretion through the renal system. Exposure to PCNs reportedly provokes a wide spectrum of adverse effects that range from hepatotoxicity, neurotoxicity and immune response suppression along with endocrine disruption leading to reproductive disorders and embryotoxicity. A number of PCNs, particularly hexachloronaphthalene congeners, elicit AhR mediated responses that are similar to, and occur within similar potency ranges as most dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and some chlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and furans (PCDD/Fs), suggesting a relationship based on molecular size and configuration between these contaminants. Most toxicological responses generally appear to be associated with higher chlorinated PCNs. The most profound effects such as serious and sometimes fatal liver disease, chloracne, and wasting syndrome resulted either from earlier episodes of occupational exposure in humans or from acute experimental dosing of animals at levels that reflected these exposures. However, since the restriction of manufacture and controls on inadvertent production (during combustion processes), the principal route of human and animal exposure is likely to be dietary intake. Therefore, further investigations should include the effects of chronic lower level intake of higher chlorinated PCN congeners that persist in the human diet and subsequently in human and animal tissues. PCNs in the diet should be evaluated cumulatively with other similarly occurring dioxin-like contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alwyn R Fernandes
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK.
| | - Anna Kilanowicz
- Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Lodz, Muszyńskiego 1, 90-15 Łódź, Poland
| | - Joanna Stragierowicz
- Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Lodz, Muszyńskiego 1, 90-15 Łódź, Poland
| | - Michał Klimczak
- Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Lodz, Muszyńskiego 1, 90-15 Łódź, Poland
| | - Jerzy Falandysz
- Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Lodz, Muszyńskiego 1, 90-15 Łódź, Poland
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Qasim GH, Fareed H, Lee M, Lee W, Han S. Aqueous monomethylmercury degradation using nanoscale zero-valent iron through oxidative demethylation and reductive isolation. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 435:128990. [PMID: 35523091 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This paper proposes a Fenton-like reaction activated by nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) for aqueous monomethylmercury (MMHg) decomposition. Reacting 10 μg L-1 MMHg with 280 mg L-1 nZVI removed 70% of the aqueous MMHg within 1 min, and its main product was aqueous Hg(II). Within 1 - 5 min, the aqueous Hg(II) decreased while the aqueous, solid, and gas-phase Hg(0) increased with 92% MMHg removal. Then, a secondary Hg(II) reduction to solid Hg(0) was prevalent within 30 - 60 min, with 98% MMHg removal. Diverse-shaped magnetite crystals were observed on the surface of nZVI in 2 h, suggesting that Fe(II) oxidation on magnetite can be a source of electrons for secondary Hg(II) reduction. When FeCl2 and H2O2 were added to the MMHg solution without nZVI, 99% of the MMHg changed to Hg(II) within 1 min. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by the Fenton-like reaction accounted for the rapid demethylation but not for the further reduction of Hg(II) to Hg(0). The results suggest a three-step pathway of MMHg decomposition by nZVI: (1) rapid MMHg demethylation by ROS; (2) rapid Hg(II) reduction by Fe(0); and (3) slow Hg(II) reduction by magnetite on the nZVI surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghulam Hussain Qasim
- School of Earth Sciences and Environmental Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), 123 Cheomdan-gwagiro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea; Research Center for Innovative Energy and Carbon Optimized Synthesis for Chemicals (Inn-ECOSysChem), Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), 123 Cheomdan-gwagiro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Hasan Fareed
- School of Earth Sciences and Environmental Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), 123 Cheomdan-gwagiro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea; Research Center for Innovative Energy and Carbon Optimized Synthesis for Chemicals (Inn-ECOSysChem), Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), 123 Cheomdan-gwagiro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Mijin Lee
- School of Earth Sciences and Environmental Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), 123 Cheomdan-gwagiro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea; Research Center for Innovative Energy and Carbon Optimized Synthesis for Chemicals (Inn-ECOSysChem), Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), 123 Cheomdan-gwagiro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Woojin Lee
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National Laboratory Astana, Nazarbayev University, 53 Kabanbay Batyr Ave., Nur-Sultan 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Seunghee Han
- School of Earth Sciences and Environmental Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), 123 Cheomdan-gwagiro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea; Research Center for Innovative Energy and Carbon Optimized Synthesis for Chemicals (Inn-ECOSysChem), Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), 123 Cheomdan-gwagiro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea.
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Analytical strategies to profile the internal chemical exposome and the metabolome of human placenta. Anal Chim Acta 2022; 1219:339983. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2022.339983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Cadmium and Cadmium/BDE (47 or 209) Exposure Affect Mitochondrial Function, DNA Damage/Repair Mechanisms and Barrier Integrity in Airway Epithelial Cells. ATMOSPHERE 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos13020201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Heavy metals and Brominated diphenyl ether flame-retardants (BDEs) often coexist in the environment and are capable of inducing injury, cytotoxicity or genotoxicity in human epithelial cells of the lung. We studied the effects of single Cadmium chloride (CdCl2) or CdCl2/BDE (47 or 209) mixtures in airway epithelial cells, using A549 cell line cultured at submerged conditions and air–liquid interface (ALI) (an in vitro model described as physiologically relevant in vivo-like). We evaluated cell viability, oxidative stress, apoptosis, DNA damage/repair (Comet assay, γH2AX phosphorylation ser139), mitochondrial redox balance (NOX-4, Nrf2 and TFAM) and cell barrier integrity (TEER, ZO-1, Claudin-1, E-cadherin-1) in A549 cells exposed to CdCl2 (1 nM to 10 µM), or to CdCl2 (100 nM)/BDEs (47 or 209) (100 nM). CdCl2 (10 μM) reduced cell viability and increased apoptosis. CdCl2 (100 nM) significantly affected DNA-damage/repair (Olive Tail length production), γH2AX phosphorylation and oxidative stress (ROS/JC-1 production) in submerged cell cultures. CdCl2 (100 nM) decreased viability, TEER, ZO-1, Claudin-1 and E-cadherin-1 mRNA expression, and Nrf2 and TFAM while increased NOX-4, in ALI culture of cells. In both cell culture approaches, the cells stimulated with Cadmium/BDEs mixtures did not show a significant increase in the effects observed in the cells treated with CdCl2 alone. CdCl2 inhalation might exert cytotoxicity and genotoxicity, playing a pivotal role in the uncontrolled oxidative stress, damaging DNA and gene expression in airway epithelial cells. No additional or synergistic adverse effects of CdCl2/BDEs mixture were observed in comparison to CdCl2 alone in lung epithelium.
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Chen J, Kikuchi T, Takagi K, Kiyota H, Adachi K, Mitsuhashi T, Fujita M. Structure Analysis of Polyhalogenated Persistent Organic Pollutants by the Crystalline Sponge Method. CHEM LETT 2022. [DOI: 10.1246/cl.210613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jiazhuo Chen
- Department of Applied Chemistry, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Takashi Kikuchi
- Rigaku Corporation, 3-9-12 Matsubara-cho, Akishima, Tokyo 196-8666, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Takagi
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemistry, Tokyo University of Agriculture, 1-1-1 Sakuragaoka, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8502, Japan
- Organochemicals Division, National Institute for Agro-Environmental Sciences, 3-1-3 Kannondai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8604, Japan
| | - Hiromasa Kiyota
- Graduate School of Environmental & Life Science, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
| | - Kiyohiro Adachi
- Division of Advanced Molecular Science, Institute for Molecular Science, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, 5-1 Higashiyama, Myodaiji, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8787, Japan
| | - Takaaki Mitsuhashi
- Division of Advanced Molecular Science, Institute for Molecular Science, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, 5-1 Higashiyama, Myodaiji, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8787, Japan
| | - Makoto Fujita
- Department of Applied Chemistry, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
- Division of Advanced Molecular Science, Institute for Molecular Science, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, 5-1 Higashiyama, Myodaiji, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8787, Japan
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Marinello WP, Patisaul HB. Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and placental function: Impact on fetal brain development. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2021; 92:347-400. [PMID: 34452690 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2021.04.003] [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] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
Pregnancy is a critical time of vulnerability for the development of the fetal brain. Exposure to environmental pollutants at any point in pregnancy can negatively impact many aspects of fetal development, especially the organization and differentiation of the brain. The placenta performs a variety of functions that can help protect the fetus and sustain brain development. However, disruption of any of these functions can have negative impacts on both the pregnancy outcome and fetal neurodevelopment. This review presents current understanding of how environmental exposures, specifically to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), interfere with placental function and, in turn, neurodevelopment. Some of the key differences in placental development between animal models are presented, as well as how placental functions such as serving as a xenobiotic barrier and exchange organ, immune interface, regulator of growth and fetal oxygenation, and a neuroendocrine organ, could be vulnerable to environmental exposure. This review illustrates the importance of the placenta as a modulator of fetal brain development and suggests critical unexplored areas and possible vulnerabilities to environmental exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- William P Marinello
- Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Heather B Patisaul
- Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States.
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Wang X, Chen P, Zhao L, Zhu L, Wu F. Transplacental Behaviors of Organophosphate Tri- and Diesters Based on Paired Human Maternal and Cord Whole Blood: Efficiencies and Impact Factors. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:3091-3100. [PMID: 33397100 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c06095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Organophosphate tri- and diesters (tri-OPEs and di-OPEs) were quantified in 63 paired maternal and cord whole blood samples collected in Hubei, China, in which tri-o-cresyl phosphate (ToCP) was predominant. The transplacental transfer efficiencies (expressed as cord blood to maternal blood (C:M) concentration ratios) of aryl-tri-OPEs, such as ToCP (1.61) and triphenyl phosphate (TPHP) (1.06), were higher than those of alkyl-tri-OPEs (0.66-0.76). For the target tri-OPEs and some traditional organic compounds, the C:M ratios first increased with log Kow in the range of 1.63-5.23 and then decreased, showing a parabolic relationship. However, ToCP, with a log Kow of 6.34, deviated from this relationship and displayed the highest C:M ratio (1.61). Molecular docking indicated a very strong binding affinity between ToCP and transthyretin, suggesting that ToCP might be actively transported by transthyretin in the placenta. The di-OPE levels in the blood samples were significantly lower than the corresponding tri-OPE levels, and those in the cord blood were influenced not only by their transplacental behaviors but also by their low excretion rates and the metabolic characteristics of their parent compounds in the fetus. This study provides useful information for accurately assessing the health risks posed by tri-OPEs to pregnant women and fetuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, P. R. China
| | - Pengyu Chen
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, P.R. China
| | - Lixia Zhao
- Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Tianjin 300191, P. R. China
| | - Lingyan Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, P.R. China
| | - Fengchang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, P. R. China
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Mok S, Jeong Y, Park M, Kim S, Lee I, Park J, Kim S, Choi K, Moon HB. Exposure to phthalates and bisphenol analogues among childbearing-aged women in Korea: Influencing factors and potential health risks. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 264:128425. [PMID: 33010629 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), widely applied in industrial and consumer products, can affect hormones associated with the human reproductive system. Because the incidence of reproductive diseases is increasing, a comprehensive exposure assessment of phthalates and bisphenol analogues (BPs) is required for childbearing-aged women. Phthalate metabolites and BPs were measured in urine samples collected from 509 childbearing-aged women (20-48 years) in Korea to investigate their current exposure status, profiles, influencing factors, and potential health risks. DEHP metabolites and BPA were the dominant compounds found, indicating that they are highly consumed in daily life. Bisphenol S (BPS), as an alternative to BPA, was detected in most urine samples. Total concentrations of phthalate metabolites and BPs ranged from 3.42 to 3570 (GM: 45.6) ng/mL and from <LOQ to 80.3 (0.91) ng/mL, respectively, which were within the ranges observed in women in previous studies. Exposure to diethyl phthalate (DEP) was significantly associated with the use of cosmetics and personal care products such as perfume, body lotion, and sunscreen. Higher ratios of urinary BPS/BPA were observed in younger and more highly educated women and in women living in urbanized regions than others. This result suggests that a shift in consumption from BPA to BPS was preferentially occurring in urbanized regions. The assessment of the cumulative risk posed by phthalates and BPs showed that they pose only a small health risk to Korean women. This study provides baseline data on exposure levels, profiles, and influencing factors for phthalates and BPs in childbearing-aged women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sori Mok
- Department of Marine Science and Convergence Engineering, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Yunsun Jeong
- Department of Marine Science and Convergence Engineering, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Minkyu Park
- Department of Marine Science and Convergence Engineering, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunmi Kim
- Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea; Chemical Safety Research Center, Chemical Platform Technology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Inae Lee
- Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongim Park
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Soonchunhyang University, Asan, 31538, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungkyoon Kim
- Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyungho Choi
- Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo-Bang Moon
- Department of Marine Science and Convergence Engineering, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, Republic of Korea.
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Stragierowicz J, Stypuła-Trębas S, Radko L, Posyniak A, Nasiadek M, Klimczak M, Kilanowicz A. An assessment of the estrogenic and androgenic properties of tetra- and hexachloronaphthalene by YES/YAS in vitro assays. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 263:128006. [PMID: 33297039 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Many persistent organic pollutants (POPs) exhibit endocrine disrupting activity but studies on some POPs, e.g., polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs), are very scarce. The present study investigates the (anti)estrogenic and (anti)androgenic activities of 1,2,3,5,6,7-hexachloronaphthalane (PCN67) and 1,3,5,8-tetrachloronaphthalene (PCN43) using the yeast estrogen and androgen reporter bioassays. Among the tested substances, antiestrogenic response was only shown by PCN67. The strongest inhibition of estrogenic activity (up to 17.4%) was observed in the low concentration ranges (5 pM - 0.5 nM) in the presence of 1.5 nM 17β-estradiol. Both tested compounds showed partial estrogenic activity with a hormetic-type response. However, both studied chemicals showed strong antiandrogenic effects: their potency in the presence of 100 nM 17β-testosterone for PCN43 (IC50 = 2.59 μM) and PCN67 (IC50 = 3.14 μM) was approximately twice that of the reference antiandrogen flutamide (IC50 = 6.14 μM). It cannot be excluded that exposure to PCNs, together with other endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), may contribute to the deregulation of sex steroid hormone signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Stragierowicz
- Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Lodz, Muszynskiego 1, 90-151, Lodz, Poland
| | - Sylwia Stypuła-Trębas
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantow 57, 24-100, Pulawy, Poland
| | - Lidia Radko
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantow 57, 24-100, Pulawy, Poland
| | - Andrzej Posyniak
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantow 57, 24-100, Pulawy, Poland
| | - Marzenna Nasiadek
- Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Lodz, Muszynskiego 1, 90-151, Lodz, Poland
| | - Michał Klimczak
- Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Lodz, Muszynskiego 1, 90-151, Lodz, Poland
| | - Anna Kilanowicz
- Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Lodz, Muszynskiego 1, 90-151, Lodz, Poland.
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Kim JT, Oh D, Choi SD, Chang YS. Factors associated with partitioning behavior of persistent organic pollutants in a feto-maternal system: A multiple linear regression approach. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 263:128247. [PMID: 33297194 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) has been a matter of particular concern because such exposure can severely affect the health of the fetus. The mechanistic understanding of the partitioning behavior of POPs in the feto-maternal system and the associated factors, however, have rarely been studied. Here, we employed a new approach based on multiple linear regression (MLR) analysis to predict the feto-maternal ratio (FM-ratio) of POPs and to assess the factors associated with feto-maternal partitioning behavior. Two preliminary exploratory MLR models were built using physiological conditions of the participants, and molecular descriptors were calculated with a computational model. The FM-ratio was calculated from the concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and furans (PCDD/Fs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in 20 pairs of maternal and cord blood. The models showed that the lipids and cholesterols in the maternal and cord blood and the placenta significantly influence the partitioning of POPs. The body mass index (BMI) change during pregnancy was also related to the FM-ratio. The physicochemical properties associated with lipophilicity and molecular size were also related to the FM-ratio. Even though the results should be interpreted with caution, the preliminary MLR models illustrate that feto-maternal partitioning is governed by transplacental transporting mechanisms, toxicokinetics, and the molecular physicochemical properties of POPs. Overall, the new approach used in this study can improve our understanding of the partitioning behavior in the feto-maternal system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Tae Kim
- Division of Environmental Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), San 31, Hyoja-dong, Nam-gu, Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea; Analysis and Assessment Center, Research Institute of Industrial Science and Technology (RIST), San 32, Hyoja-dong, Nam-gu, Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea.
| | - Dasom Oh
- Division of Environmental Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), San 31, Hyoja-dong, Nam-gu, Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Deuk Choi
- School of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), 50, UNIST-gil, Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon-Seok Chang
- Division of Environmental Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), San 31, Hyoja-dong, Nam-gu, Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea.
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Zhang X, Cheng X, Lei B, Zhang G, Bi Y, Yu Y. A review of the transplacental transfer of persistent halogenated organic pollutants: Transfer characteristics, influential factors, and mechanisms. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 146:106224. [PMID: 33137703 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.106224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Persistent halogenated organic pollutants (HOPs) are a class of toxic chemicals, which may have adverse effects on fetuses via transplacental transfer from their mothers. Here, we review reported internal exposure levels of various HOPs (organochlorinated pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, short- and medium-chain chlorinated paraffins, and per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances) in placenta, and both maternal and umbilical cord sera. We also present analyses of the transplacental transfer and placental distribution characteristics of each class of compounds, and discuss effects of several factors on the transfer and accumulation efficiencies of HOPs, as well as the main mechanisms of HOPs' transfer across the placental barrier. Reported compound-specific transplacental transfer efficiencies and distribution efficiencies, expressed as umbilical cord:maternal serum and placental:maternal serum concentration ratios (RCM and RPM, respectively), are summarized. Average published RCM values of the HOPs range from 0.24 to 3.08 (lipid-adjusted) and from 0.04 to 3.1 (based on wet weights), and are highest for perfluoroalkylcarboxylates (PFCAs) and tetrabromobisphenol A. Average published RPM values range from 0.14 to 1.02 (lipid-adjusted) and from 0.30 to 1.4 (based on wet weights). The broad RCM and RPM ranges may reflect effects of various factors, inter alia physicochemical properties of HOPs, metabolic capacities of mothers and fetuses, placental maturity, and differential expression of influx/efflux transporters in the placenta. Generally, HOPs' RCM values decline linearly with molecular size, and are curvilinearly related to solubility. Plasma protein binding affinity and the difference between maternal and fetal metabolic capacities may also affect some HOPs' transfer efficiencies. HOPs' molecular size may be influential. Transplacental transport of HOPs likely occurs mostly through passive diffusion, although influx/efflux transporters expressed on maternal and/or fetal sides of the placenta may also facilitate or hinder their transport. Overall, the review highlights clear gaps in our understanding of mechanisms involved in HOPs' transplacental transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolan Zhang
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, PR China
| | - Xiaomeng Cheng
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, PR China
| | - Bingli Lei
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, PR China; Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Catalysis and Health Risk Control, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Catalysis and Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Institute of Environmental Health and Pollution Control, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Guoxia Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China
| | - Yuhao Bi
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, PR China
| | - Yingxin Yu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Catalysis and Health Risk Control, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Catalysis and Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Institute of Environmental Health and Pollution Control, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, PR China.
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Varshavsky JR, Sen S, Robinson JF, Smith SC, Frankenfield J, Wang Y, Yeh G, Park JS, Fisher SJ, Woodruff TJ. Racial/ethnic and geographic differences in polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) levels across maternal, placental, and fetal tissues during mid-gestation. Sci Rep 2020; 10:12247. [PMID: 32699379 PMCID: PMC7376153 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-69067-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Prenatal polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) exposures are a public health concern due to their persistence and potential for reproductive and developmental harm. However, we have little information about the extent of fetal exposures during critical developmental periods and the variation in exposures for groups that may be more highly exposed, such as communities of color and lower socioeconomic status (SES). To characterize maternal-fetal PBDE exposures among potentially vulnerable groups, PBDE levels were examined in the largest sample of matched maternal serum, placenta, and fetal liver tissues during mid-gestation among a geographically, racially/ethnically, and socially diverse population of pregnant women from Northern California and the Central Valley (n = 180; 2014-16). Maternal-fetal PBDE levels were compared to population characteristics using censored Kendall's tau correlation and linear regression. PBDEs were commonly detected in all biomatrices. Before lipid adjustment, wet-weight levels of all four PBDE congeners were highest in the fetal liver (p < 0.001), whereas median PBDE levels were significantly higher in maternal serum than in the fetal liver or placenta after lipid-adjustment (p < 0.001). We also found evidence of racial/ethnic disparities in PBDE exposures (Non-Hispanic Black > Latina/Hispanic > Non-Hispanic White > Asian/Pacific Islander/Other; p < 0.01), with higher levels of BDE-100 and BDE-153 among non-Hispanic Black women compared to the referent group (Latina/Hispanic women). In addition, participants living in Fresno/South Central Valley had 34% (95% CI: - 2.4 to 84%, p = 0.07) higher wet-weight levels of BDE-47 than residents living in the San Francisco Bay Area. PBDEs are widely detected and differentially distributed in maternal-fetal compartments. Non-Hispanic Black pregnant women and women from Southern Central Valley geographical populations may be more highly exposed to PBDEs. Further research is needed to identify sources that may be contributing to differential exposures and associated health risks among these vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia R Varshavsky
- Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, Mailstop 0132, 550 16th Street, 7th Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Saunak Sen
- Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 66 North Pauline St, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA
| | - Joshua F Robinson
- Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, Mailstop 0132, 550 16th Street, 7th Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
- Center for Reproductive Sciences and Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Sabrina Crispo Smith
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Toxic Substances Control, California Environmental Protection Agency, 700 Heinz Ave # 200, Berkeley, CA, 94710, USA
| | - Julie Frankenfield
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Toxic Substances Control, California Environmental Protection Agency, 700 Heinz Ave # 200, Berkeley, CA, 94710, USA
| | - Yunzhu Wang
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Toxic Substances Control, California Environmental Protection Agency, 700 Heinz Ave # 200, Berkeley, CA, 94710, USA
| | - Greg Yeh
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Toxic Substances Control, California Environmental Protection Agency, 700 Heinz Ave # 200, Berkeley, CA, 94710, USA
| | - June-Soo Park
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Toxic Substances Control, California Environmental Protection Agency, 700 Heinz Ave # 200, Berkeley, CA, 94710, USA
| | - Susan J Fisher
- Center for Reproductive Sciences and Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Tracey J Woodruff
- Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, Mailstop 0132, 550 16th Street, 7th Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
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Hexachloronaphthalene Induces Mitochondrial-Dependent Neurotoxicity via a Mechanism of Enhanced Production of Reactive Oxygen Species. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2020; 2020:2479234. [PMID: 32685088 PMCID: PMC7335409 DOI: 10.1155/2020/2479234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Hexachloronaphthalene (PCN67) is one of the most toxic among polychlorinated naphthalenes. Despite the known high bioaccumulation and persistence of PCN67 in the environment, it is still unclear to what extent exposure to these substances may interfere with normal neuronal physiology and lead to neurotoxicity. Therefore, the primary goal of this study was to assess the effect of PCN67 in neuronal in vitro models. Neuronal death was assessed upon PCN67 treatment using differentiated PC12 cells and primary hippocampal neurons. At 72 h postexposure, cell viability assays showed an IC50 value of 0.35 μg/ml and dose-dependent damage of neurites and concomitant downregulation of neurofilaments L and M. Moreover, we found that younger primary neurons (DIV4) were much more sensitive to PCN67 toxicity than mature cultures (DIV14). Our comprehensive analysis indicated that the application of PCN67 at the IC50 concentration caused necrosis, which was reflected by an increase in LDH release, HMGB1 protein export to the cytosol, nuclear swelling, and loss of homeostatic control of energy balance. The blockage of mitochondrial calcium uniporter partially rescued the cell viability, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), and the overproduction of reactive oxygen species, suggesting that the underlying mechanism of neurotoxicity involved mitochondrial calcium accumulation. Increased lipid peroxidation as a consequence of oxidative stress was additionally seen for 0.1 μg/ml of PCN67, while this concentration did not affect ΔΨm and plasma membrane permeability. Our results show for the first time that neuronal mitochondria act as a target for PCN67 and indicate that exposure to this drug may result in neuron loss via mitochondrial-dependent mechanisms.
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Matovu H, Ssebugere P, Sillanpää M. Prenatal exposure levels of polybrominated diphenyl ethers in mother-infant pairs and their transplacental transfer characteristics in Uganda (East Africa). ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 258:113723. [PMID: 31869703 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.113723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are ubiquitous environmental pollutants with adverse effects on the foetus and infants. This study aimed at assessing in utero exposure levels and transplacental transfer (TPT) characteristics of BDE congeners in primiparous mothers from Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. Paired human samples (30 placenta and 30 cord blood samples) were collected between April and June 2018; and analysed for a suite of 24 tri-to deca-BDE congeners. Extraction was carried out using liquid-liquid extraction and sonication for cord blood and placenta samples, respectively. Clean-up was done on a solid phase (SPE) column and analysis was performed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Total (∑) PBDEs were 0.25-30.9 ng/g lipid weight (lw) (median; 7.11 ng/g lw) in placental tissues and 1.65-34.5 ng/g lw (median; 11.9 ng/g lw) in cord blood serum, with a mean difference of 1.26 ng/g lw between the compartments. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference between the levels of PBDEs in cord blood and placenta samples (Wilcoxon signed rank test, p = 0.665), possibly because foetus and neonates have poorly developed systems to metabolise the pollutants from the mothers. BDE-209 was the dominant congener in both matrices (contributed 40.5% and 51.2% to ∑PBDEs in placenta and cord blood, respectively), suggesting recent and on-going maternal exposure to deca-BDE formulation. Non-significant associations were observed between ∑PBDEs in maternal placenta and maternal age, household income, pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI), and beef/fish consumption. This suggested on-going exposure to PBDEs through multiple sources such as dust from indoor/outdoor environments and, ingestion of other foods. Based on absolute concentrations, the extent of transplacental transport was greater for higher congeners (BDE-209, -206 and -207) than for lower ones (such as BDE-47), suggesting alternative TPT mechanisms besides passive diffusion. More studies with bigger sample sizes are required to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Matovu
- Department of Chemistry, Gulu University, P. O. Box 166, Gulu, Uganda; Department of Chemistry, Makerere University, P. O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda; Department of Green Chemistry, Lappeenranta University of Technology, Sammonkatu 12, 50190, Mikkeli, Finland
| | - Patrick Ssebugere
- Department of Chemistry, Makerere University, P. O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Mika Sillanpää
- Department of Green Chemistry, Lappeenranta University of Technology, Sammonkatu 12, 50190, Mikkeli, Finland
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21
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Wang L, Zheng M, Zhang S, Zhao C, Kang W, Wang K. Roles of mtDNA damage and disordered Ca 2+ homeostasis in the joint toxicities of cadmium and BDE209. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2019; 186:109767. [PMID: 31610358 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2019.109767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2019] [Revised: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium, a typical heavy metal, causes serious toxicities on many organs and tissues. As the last partially controlled class of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), BDE209 can also induce various health issues. Although apoptosis mediated by mitochondria has been known to be a key player in inducing toxicities by cadmium, the detailed mechanisms are incompletely understood. Moreover, co-existence of cadmium and PBDEs has been found in various environment context and human body. However, studies on the joint toxicity of cadmium and PBDEs are still limited with largely unknown mechanisms. In the present study, we investigated the adverse effects and mechanisms of single or combined treatment of CdCl2 and BDE209 on hepatocytes. We observed that apoptosis were significantly induced by CdCl2, and the combined treatment of CdCl2 and BDE209 greatly promoted the progression of apoptosis. BDE209 induced mild apoptosis. Mitochondria was the pivot of several mechanisms to induce apoptosis, including ROS production, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), mtDNA damage and disordered calcium (Ca2+) homeostasis. However, we found that mtDNA damage and disordered Ca2+ homeostasis were the main mechanisms for CdCl2-induced apoptosis while ROS production played important roles in BDE209-induced apoptosis. Less mtDNA damage occurred in BDE209-treated cells. In the cells with combined treatment, CdCl2 and BDE209 exhibited a complementary pattern for the underlying mechanisms of apoptosis, leading to the joint toxicities, in which CdCl2 showed more contributions. In a conclusion, our results demonstrated that combined exposure to cadmium and BDE209 causes joint adverse effects on hepatocytes through diverse mechanisms as mediated by mitochondria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixin Wang
- Shijiazhuang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shijiazhuang, 050011, China; School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China; College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Pollution Prevention Biotechnology Laboratory of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, 050018, China
| | - Miaomiao Zheng
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Pollution Prevention Biotechnology Laboratory of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, 050018, China
| | - Shuping Zhang
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Chuan Zhao
- Shijiazhuang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shijiazhuang, 050011, China
| | - Weijun Kang
- School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Ke Wang
- Shijiazhuang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shijiazhuang, 050011, China.
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22
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Ruis MT, Rock KD, Hall SM, Horman B, Patisaul HB, Stapleton HM. PBDEs Concentrate in the Fetal Portion of the Placenta: Implications for Thyroid Hormone Dysregulation. Endocrinology 2019; 160:2748-2758. [PMID: 31555822 PMCID: PMC6821203 DOI: 10.1210/en.2019-00463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
During pregnancy, the supply of thyroid hormone (TH) to the fetus is critically important for fetal growth, neural development, metabolism, and maintenance of pregnancy. Additionally, in cases where maternal and placental TH regulation is significantly altered, there is an increased risk of several adverse pregnancy outcomes. It is unclear what may be disrupting placental TH regulation; however, studies suggest that environmental contaminants, such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), could be playing a role. In this study, Wistar rats were gestationally exposed to a mixture of PBDEs for 10 days. THs and PBDEs were quantified in paired maternal serum, dissected placenta, and fetuses, and mRNA expression of transporters in the placenta was assessed. Significantly higher concentrations of PBDEs were observed in the fetal portion of the placenta compared with the maternal side, suggesting that PBDEs are actively transported across the interface. PBDEs were also quantified in 10 recently collected human maternal and fetal placental tissues; trends paralleled observations in the rat model. We also observed an effect of PBDEs on T3 levels in dam serum, as well as suggestive changes in the T3 levels of the placenta and fetus that varied by fetal sex. mRNA expression in the placenta also significantly varied by fetal sex and dose. These observations suggest the placenta is a significant modifier of fetal exposures, and that PBDEs are impacting TH regulation in a sex-specific manner during this critical window of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew T Ruis
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Kylie D Rock
- Department of Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Samantha M Hall
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Brian Horman
- Department of Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Heather B Patisaul
- Department of Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Heather M Stapleton
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
- Children’s Health Discovery Initiative, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
- Correspondence: Heather M. Stapleton, PhD, 9 Circuit Drive, Box 90328, Durham, North Carolina 27708. E-mail:
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23
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Yin S, Zhang J, Guo F, Zhao L, Poma G, Covaci A, Liu W. Transplacental transfer of organochlorine pesticides: Concentration ratio and chiral properties. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2019; 130:104939. [PMID: 31252166 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2019.104939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/16/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Currently, there is limited information about the mechanism of the human transplacental transfer for organochlorine pesticides (OCPs). This study aimed to evaluate the transplacental transfer of OCPs to better understand the influencing factors of exposure and transplacental efficiency. The study involved quantitative determination of OCPs and the enantiomer fraction (EF) of chiral OCPs in pregnant women from Wuhan, China. The results indicate that the exposure levels of OCPs varied in the order: maternal serum > cord serum > placenta. Chiral contaminants, such as α-HCH, o,p'-DDD and o,p'-DDT, were non-racemic in the three biological matrices, wherein EFα-HCH < 0.5, EFo,p'-DDD < 0.5, EFo,p'-DDT > 0.5. For HCHs, the concentration ratio between cord serum and maternal serum (Rcm) <1, while for DDXs, the Rcm ≈ 1, indicating that the transport efficiency of different pollutants is related to the physicochemical properties. These results showed that placenta seems to be a more efficient barrier for β-HCH than for p,p'-DDE. The concentration ratios across placenta significantly lower than 1 and the enantiomeric selective transfer imply that some OCPs may have more complicated maternal-fetus transfer mechanisms, involving both simple diffusion and active transport. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the transfer of OCPs and their enantiomer fractions across placenta. These findings could expand the database of chemical exposure in biological matrices and improve the understanding of the mechanisms of transplacental transfer of OCPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Yin
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecosystem Health, Institution of Environmental Health, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jianyun Zhang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecosystem Health, Institution of Environmental Health, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Fangjie Guo
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecosystem Health, Institution of Environmental Health, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lu Zhao
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecosystem Health, Institution of Environmental Health, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Giulia Poma
- Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Adrian Covaci
- Toxicological Centre, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium.
| | - Weiping Liu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecosystem Health, Institution of Environmental Health, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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24
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Kilanowicz A, Sitarek K, Stragierowicz J, Klimczak M, Bruchajzer E. Prenatal toxicity and maternal-fetal distribution of 1,3,5,8-tetrachloronaphthalene (1,3,5,8-TeCN) in Wistar rats. CHEMOSPHERE 2019; 226:75-84. [PMID: 30921639 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.03.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Revised: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
1,3,5,8-tetrachloronaphthalene (1,3,5,8-TeCN) is a Persistent Organic Pollutant (POP) that belongs to the group of polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs). The aim of the study was to investigate the maternal-fetal distribution and prenatal toxicity of 1,3,5,8-TeCN after its administration to pregnant Wistar rats during organogenesis. Radiolabeled 1,3,5,8-tetrachloronaphthalene-[ring-U-3H] was given by gavage at a dose of 0.3 mg per dam to evaluate its tissue distribution, and that of unlabeled 1,3,5,8-TeCN, at daily doses of 0.3, 1.0 or 3.0 mg kg b.w.-1 to assess prenatal toxicity. After a single administration of 1,3,5,8-TeCN, the highest concentration was detected in maternal adipose tissue. The concentration in the brain, uterus, kidneys, adrenals, ovaries, lungs and liver established in dams were two to nine times higher than in the maternal blood. 1,3,5,8-TeCN penetrated the blood-brain-barrier and the placenta. The results obtained from developmental toxicity indicate that 1,3,5,8-TeCN did not cause maternal toxicity and was not embryotoxic or teratogenic. However, fetotoxic effects were observed after non-toxic doses for dams (1.0 and 3.0 mg∙b.w.-1·day-1). 1,3,5,8-TeCN did not induce congenital skeletal defects but increased the number of fetuses with sternum ossification delay. After a dose of 3.0 mg kg b.w.-1·day-1, significantly more fetuses were found with enlargement of the renal pelvis: unilateral in female offspring and bilateral in male offspring. At the doses used, 1,3,5,8-TeCN, unlike hexachloronaphthalene, was not a CYP1A1 inducer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kilanowicz
- Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Lodz, Muszynskiego 1, 90-151 Lodz, Poland.
| | - Krystyna Sitarek
- Department of Toxicology and Carcinogenesis, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Sw. Teresy od Dzieciatka Jezus 8, 91-348 Lodz, Poland.
| | - Joanna Stragierowicz
- Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Lodz, Muszynskiego 1, 90-151 Lodz, Poland.
| | - Michał Klimczak
- Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Lodz, Muszynskiego 1, 90-151 Lodz, Poland.
| | - Elżbieta Bruchajzer
- Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Lodz, Muszynskiego 1, 90-151 Lodz, Poland.
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25
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Stragierowicz J, Bruchajzer E, Daragó A, Nasiadek M, Kilanowicz A. Hexachloronaphthalene (HxCN) as a potential endocrine disruptor in female rats. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 243:1026-1035. [PMID: 30253293 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.09.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2018] [Revised: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Hexachloronaphthalene (HxCN) is one of the most toxic and most bioaccumulative congeners of polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) known to be present in animal and human adipose tissue. Unfortunately, little data is available regarding the negative effect of PCNs on endocrine function. The aim of the study was to investigate the direct influence of subacute (two and four-week) and subchronic (13-week) daily oral exposure of female rats to 30, 100 and 300 μg kg b.w.-1 HxCN on ovarian, thyroid function and neurotransmitters level. The levels of selected sex hormones (progesterone: P and estradiol: E2) in the serum and uterus, regularity of estrous cycle, levels of thyroid hormones (fT3 and fT4), TSH, γ-aminobutyric acid and glutamate levels in selected brain areas and the activity of CYP1A1 and CYP2B in the liver were examined. Estrogenic action (elevated E2 concentration in the uterus and serum) was observed only after subacute exposure, and antiestrogenic activity (decreased E2 level and uterus weight) after 13 weeks administration of 300 μg kg b.w.-1 day-1. Subchronic administration of HxCN significantly lengthens the estrous cycle, by up to almost 50%, and increases the number of irregular cycles. In addition, increased TSH and decreased fT4 serum levels were observed after all doses and durations of exposure to HxCN. Only subacute exposure led to a significant decrease in the level of examined neurotransmitters in all analyzed structures. Additionally, exposure to low doses of HxCN appears to lead to strong induction of CYP1A1 in a liver. It can be hypothesized that HxCN produces effects which are very similar to those caused by 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) and dioxin-like compounds (DLCs), particularly concerning endocrine and estrous cyclicity disorders. Therefore, HxCN exposure may exert unexpected effects on female fecundity among the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Stragierowicz
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University, Muszynskiego 1, 90-151, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Elżbieta Bruchajzer
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University, Muszynskiego 1, 90-151, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Adam Daragó
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University, Muszynskiego 1, 90-151, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Marzenna Nasiadek
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University, Muszynskiego 1, 90-151, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Anna Kilanowicz
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University, Muszynskiego 1, 90-151, Lodz, Poland.
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26
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Loreto-Gómez C, Farías P, Moreno-Macías H, Guzmán C, Riojas-Rodríguez H. Prenatal exposure to persistent organic compounds and their association with anogenital distance in infants. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 37:732-740. [PMID: 30539738 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Revised: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What is the association between prenatal exposure to persistent organic pollutants, separately and combined, and anogenital distance (in-utero endocrine disruption marker). DESIGN A cohort study conducted in Sonora, Mexico. Blood concentrations of polychlorobiphenyls (PCB) 28, 74, 118, 138/158, 153, 170, 180 and the isomers of dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and its metabolites were determined in women in the third trimester of pregnancy; three variants of anogenital distance were measured on five occasions during the first year of life of their infants: 82 girls (402 observations) and 74 boys (356 observations). RESULTS Boys had negative and significant associations between anogenital distance/height and the concentrations of PCB 28 (beta = - 0.005;P = 0.006), PCB 74 (beta = - 0.003;P = 0.013), and PCB 170 (beta = - 0.005;P = 0.001) when analysed individually. Negative and significant associations were also found using statistical models applied to mixtures of compounds. The latter associations were sometimes larger in magnitude and significance, suggesting a possible potentiation of the compounds. No associations were observed between anogenital distance and DDT in either sex or with PCB in girls. CONCLUSIONS The decreased anogenital distance associated with prenatal exposure to the persistent organic pollutants, observed consistently in different analyses, suggests an under-masculinizing effect of these environmental pollutants in boys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Loreto-Gómez
- Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Unidad Azcapotzalco.Av. San Pablo Xalpa 180, Colonia Reynosa Tamaulipas, Azcapotzalco, 02200, México; Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública.Av. Universidad 655, Colonia Santa María, Ahuacatitlán, 62100, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Paulina Farías
- Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública.Av. Universidad 655, Colonia Santa María, Ahuacatitlán, 62100, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México.
| | - Hortensia Moreno-Macías
- Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Unidad Iztapalapa, San Rafael Atlixco 186, Colonia Vicentina, Iztapalapa 09340, México
| | - Carolina Guzmán
- Unidad de Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, UNAM-Hospital General de México, Dr. Balmis 148, Colonia Doctores, Cuauhtémoc 06726, México
| | - Horacio Riojas-Rodríguez
- Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública.Av. Universidad 655, Colonia Santa María, Ahuacatitlán, 62100, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
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27
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Jeong Y, Lee S, Kim S, Park J, Kim HJ, Choi G, Choi S, Kim S, Kim SY, Kim S, Choi K, Moon HB. Placental transfer of persistent organic pollutants and feasibility using the placenta as a non-invasive biomonitoring matrix. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 612:1498-1505. [PMID: 28910963 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.07.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2017] [Revised: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/07/2017] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The placenta is a crucial organ for the supply of oxygen and nutritional elements from mother to fetus. Several studies have reported evidence of the placental transfer of persistent organic pollutants (POPs). Despite the importance of prenatal exposure to POPs, the transport process of POPs via the human placenta is not well understood. To investigate the transport processes of these contaminants and to assess the feasibility of the placenta as a non-invasive biological matrix, we measured 19 polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), 18 organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), and 24 polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in placenta tissues. The total concentrations of PCBs, OCPs, and PBDEs in placental tissues ranged from 0.36 to 75.2 (median: 5.85) ng/g lipid wt, 1.37 to 250 (63.5) ng/g lipid wt, and 1.21 to 427 (11.7) ng/g lipid wt, respectively. The BDE 209 concentrations were higher than those reported in previous studies presumably because of the high consumption of deca-BDE technical mixtures in Korea. The concentrations of all of the POPs in placental tissues correlated significantly with each other, but BDE 209 concentration did not correlate with that of any other contaminants possibly because of different exposure sources and kinetics. Maternal age, body mass index, and parity were contributors to the accumulation of several POPs in the placenta. Partitioning ratios between maternal blood-placenta-cord blood showed that lower molecular-weight and hydrophobic POPs were preferentially transported from maternal blood to the placenta and that higher molecular-weight and hydrophobic contaminants tended to remain in placental tissues. Regression analysis showed significant relationships between the POP concentrations in multiple biological matrices such as maternal blood, placenta, cord blood, and meconium. These relationships suggest that the placenta can be used as a non-invasive matrix for biomonitoring prenatal exposure to several POPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunsun Jeong
- Department of Marine Science and Convergence Engineering, Hanyang University, Ansan 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunggyu Lee
- Department of Marine Science and Convergence Engineering, Hanyang University, Ansan 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunmi Kim
- School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongim Park
- College of Natural Sciences, Soonchunhyang University, Asan 31538, Republic of Korea
| | - Hai-Joong Kim
- College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyuyeon Choi
- College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Seoul 31538, Republic of Korea
| | - Sooran Choi
- College of Medicine, Inha University, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungjoo Kim
- College of Medicine, Hallym University, Seoul 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Young Kim
- College of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungkyoon Kim
- School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyungho Choi
- School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo-Bang Moon
- Department of Marine Science and Convergence Engineering, Hanyang University, Ansan 15588, Republic of Korea.
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28
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Wang L, Zheng M, Gao Y, Cui J. In vitro study on the joint hepatoxicity upon combined exposure of cadmium and BDE-209. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2018; 57:62-69. [PMID: 29216509 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2017.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Revised: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Joint toxicity is an important issue during the risk assessment of environmental pollutants. Contamination of heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) under the environmental and biological settings poses substantial health risk to humans. Although previous studies demonstrated the co-occurrence of cadmium and decabrominated diphenyl ether (BDE-209) in environmental mediums, food chains and even human body, their potentially joint toxicities remain elusive thus far. Our investigation here with respect to the hepatotoxicity in vitro clearly demonstrated that combined exposure of cadmium and BDE-209 aggravated the injuries in hepatocytes, which was evidenced by the additive effects on the induction of remarkable morphological alternations, LDH release, cell apoptosis and necrosis, impairment of mitochondrial activity and transmembrane potential. Enhanced ROS production was one of the mechanisms for cell apoptosis and death upon joint treatment. Additionally, more cadmium-treated cells underwent apoptosis than BDE-209-treated cells while more ROS was generated with BDE-209 treatment, indicating that other mechanisms might be involved in cadmium-induced apoptosis. Our results would be helpful for evaluating the joint-hepatotoxicity upon combined exposure of cadmium and BDE-209 as well as investigating the underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixin Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhuang 050018, China.
| | - Miaomiao Zheng
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhuang 050018, China
| | - Yu Gao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhuang 050018, China; Xiqing District Environmental Protection Monitoring Station, Tianjin 300380, China
| | - Jiansheng Cui
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhuang 050018, China.
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29
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Fang H, Guo Y, Wu T, Liu Y. Biomimetic synthesis of urchin-like CuO/ZnO nanocomposites with excellent photocatalytic activity. NEW J CHEM 2018. [DOI: 10.1039/c8nj02052c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Highly photocatalytic urchin-like CuO/ZnO nanocomposites were synthesized using glutamine as a growth regulator by a hydrothermal process with subsequent calcination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Fang
- College of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Biosensing and Molecular Recognition (Tianjin), and Key Laboratory of Advanced Energy Materials Chemistry (Ministry of Education)
- Nankai University
- Tianjin 300071
- China
| | - Yanxia Guo
- College of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Biosensing and Molecular Recognition (Tianjin), and Key Laboratory of Advanced Energy Materials Chemistry (Ministry of Education)
- Nankai University
- Tianjin 300071
- China
| | - Tong Wu
- College of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Biosensing and Molecular Recognition (Tianjin), and Key Laboratory of Advanced Energy Materials Chemistry (Ministry of Education)
- Nankai University
- Tianjin 300071
- China
| | - Yuping Liu
- College of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Biosensing and Molecular Recognition (Tianjin), and Key Laboratory of Advanced Energy Materials Chemistry (Ministry of Education)
- Nankai University
- Tianjin 300071
- China
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30
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Ling LL, Liu WJ, Zhang S, Jiang H. Magnesium Oxide Embedded Nitrogen Self-Doped Biochar Composites: Fast and High-Efficiency Adsorption of Heavy Metals in an Aqueous Solution. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:10081-10089. [PMID: 28753301 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b02382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) pollution in natural water bodies is an environmental concern due to toxic effects on aquatic ecosystems and human health, while adsorption is an effective approach to remove Pb from the water. Surface interactions between adsorbents and adsorbates play a dominant role in the adsorption process, and properly engineering a material's surface property is critical to the improvement of adsorption performance. In this study, the magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles stabilized on the N-doped biochar (MgO@N-biochar) were synthesized by one-pot fast pyrolysis of an MgCl2-loaded N-enriched hydrophyte biomass as a way to increase the exchangeable ions and N-containing functional groups and facilitate the adsorption of Pb2+. The as-synthesized MgO@N-biochar has a high performance with Pb in an aqueous solution with a large adsorption capacity (893 mg/g), a very short equilibrium time (<10 min), and a large throughput (∼4450 BV). Results show that this excellent adsorption performance can be maintained with various environmentally relevant interferences including pH, natural organic matter, and other metal ions, suggesting that the material may be suitable for the treatment of wastewater, natural bodies of water, and even drinking water. In addition, MgO@N-biochar quickly and efficiently removed Cd2+ and tetracycline. Multiple characterizations and comparative tests have been performed to demonstrate the surface adsorption and ion exchange contributed to partial Pb adsorption, and it can be inferred from these results that the high performance of MgO@N-biochar is mainly due to the surface coordination of Pb2+ and C═O or O═C-O, pyridinic, pyridonic, and pyrrolic N. This work suggests that engineering surface functional groups of biochar may be crucial for the development of high performance heavy metal adsorbents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Li Ling
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China , Hefei 230026, China
| | - Wu-Jun Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China , Hefei 230026, China
| | - Shun Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China , Hefei 230026, China
| | - Hong Jiang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Department of Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China , Hefei 230026, China
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31
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Fernández-Cruz T, Martínez-Carballo E, Simal-Gándara J. Perspective on pre- and post-natal agro-food exposure to persistent organic pollutants and their effects on quality of life. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2017; 100:79-101. [PMID: 28089279 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2017.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2016] [Revised: 12/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/02/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adipose tissue constitutes a continual source of internal exposure to organic pollutants (OPs). When fats mobilize during pregnancy and breastfeeding, OPs could affect foetal and neonatal development, respectively. SCOPE AND APPROACH The main aim of this review is to deal with pre- and post-natal external exposure to organic pollutants and their effects on health, proposing prevention measures to reduce their risk. The goal is the development of a biomonitoring framework program to estimate their impact on human health, and prevent exposure by recommending some changes in personal lifestyle habits. KEY FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS It has been shown that new studies should be developed taking into account their cumulative effect and the factors affecting their body burden. In conclusion, several programs should continuously be developed by different health agencies to have a better understanding of the effect of these substances and to develop a unified public policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Fernández-Cruz
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical and Food Chemistry, Food Science and Technology Faculty, University of Vigo - Ourense Campus, E-32004 Ourense, Spain.
| | - Elena Martínez-Carballo
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical and Food Chemistry, Food Science and Technology Faculty, University of Vigo - Ourense Campus, E-32004 Ourense, Spain.
| | - Jesús Simal-Gándara
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical and Food Chemistry, Food Science and Technology Faculty, University of Vigo - Ourense Campus, E-32004 Ourense, Spain.
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32
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Zheng MY, Li XH, Zhang Y, Yang YL, Wang WY, Tian Y. Partitioning of polybrominated biphenyl ethers from mother to fetus and potential health-related implications. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 170:207-215. [PMID: 28006755 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.11.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2016] [Revised: 11/23/2016] [Accepted: 11/27/2016] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Presently, knowledge on the partitioning of polybrominated biphenyl ethers (PBDEs) from mother to fetus and the relationship between PBDE exposure and the levels of thyroid hormones (THs) needs to be extended further. In the present study, we investigated the concentrations of PBDEs in paired mother-fetus samples from 72 pregnant women in Wenling, China. The detection of PBDE concentration suggested that the expectant women living in Wenling for over 20 years might be highly exposed to PBDEs, which is largely ascribed to e-waste recycling activities in the local environment. The median concentration ratios between paired cord serum and maternal serum for higher-brominated BDEs were smaller than those for lower-brominated BDEs (p < 0.05). This result indicated that the placenta could hinder the transfer of PBDEs from mother to fetus, and the hindrance effect increased with higher-brominated congeners. Median ratios of paired placenta vs. maternal serum concentrations varied in a narrow range (0.15-0.25), with significantly lower value for BDE-209 than that for BDE-28 (p < 0.01). The extent of transplacental transfer was larger than that of placental retention for eight BDE congeners (p < 0.01). The concentration of BDE congeners among the paired samples could be fitted by equations, implying that their distribution could be predicted for each other (p < 0.001). There was a significant association between BDE-153 and TT4 levels in maternal serum from Wenling local residents (p < 0.05), suggesting potential implications for fetal development and their mothers' health in e-waste recycling environment. In addition, it was found that the relationship between BDEs and TH levels was likely affected by the exposure duration of the population to PBDEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Yun Zheng
- The First People's Hospital of Wenling, Taizhou, 317004, Zhejiang Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xing-Hong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center of Eco-Environment Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, 18 Shuangqing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100085, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center of Eco-Environment Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, 18 Shuangqing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100085, People's Republic of China; Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing, 100037, People's Republic of China
| | - You-Lin Yang
- The First People's Hospital of Wenling, Taizhou, 317004, Zhejiang Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-Yue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center of Eco-Environment Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, 18 Shuangqing Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100085, People's Republic of China; Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing, 100037, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Tian
- Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing, 100037, People's Republic of China
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Lee WC, Fisher M, Davis K, Arbuckle TE, Sinha SK. Identification of chemical mixtures to which Canadian pregnant women are exposed: The MIREC Study. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2017; 99:321-330. [PMID: 28040263 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2016.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Depending on the chemical and the outcome, prenatal exposures to environmental chemicals can lead to adverse effects on the pregnancy and child development, especially if exposure occurs during early gestation. Instead of focusing on prenatal exposure to individual chemicals, more studies have taken into account that humans are exposed to multiple environmental chemicals on a daily basis. The objectives of this analysis were to identify the pattern of chemical mixtures to which women are exposed and to characterize women with elevated exposures to various mixtures. Statistical techniques were applied to 28 chemicals measured simultaneously in the first trimester and socio-demographic factors of 1744 participants from the Maternal-Infant Research on Environment Chemicals (MIREC) Study. Cluster analysis was implemented to categorize participants based on their socio-demographic characteristics, while principal component analysis (PCA) was used to extract the chemicals with similar patterns and to reduce the dimension of the dataset. Next, hypothesis testing determined if the mean converted concentrations of chemical substances differed significantly among women with different socio-demographic backgrounds as well as among clusters. Cluster analysis identified six main socio-demographic clusters. Eleven components, which explained approximately 70% of the variance in the data, were retained in the PCA. Persistent organic pollutants (PCB118, PCB138, PCB153, PCB180, OXYCHLOR and TRANSNONA) and phthalates (MEOHP, MEHHP and MEHP) dominated the first and second components, respectively, and the first two components explained 25.8% of the source variation. Prenatal exposure to persistent organic pollutants (first component) were positively associated with women who have lower education or higher income, were born in Canada, have BMI ≥25, or were expecting their first child in our study population. MEOHP, MEHHP and MEHP, dominating the second component, were detected in at least 98% of 1744 participants in our cohort study; however, no particular group of pregnant women was identified to be highly exposed to phthalates. While widely recognized as important to studying potential health effects, identifying the mixture of chemicals to which various segments of the population are exposed has been problematic. We present an approach using factor analysis through principal component method and cluster analysis as an attempt to determine the pregnancy exposome. Future studies should focus on how to include these matrices in examining the health effects of prenatal exposure to chemical mixtures in pregnant women and their children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan-Chen Lee
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | - Mandy Fisher
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Karelyn Davis
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Tye E Arbuckle
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Sanjoy K Sinha
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Leonetti C, Butt CM, Hoffman K, Hammel SC, Miranda ML, Stapleton HM. Brominated flame retardants in placental tissues: associations with infant sex and thyroid hormone endpoints. Environ Health 2016; 15:113. [PMID: 27884139 PMCID: PMC5123327 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-016-0199-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 11/19/2016] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are endocrine disruptors that bioaccumulate in the placenta, but it remains unclear if they disrupt tissue thyroid hormone (TH) metabolism. Our primary goal was to investigate associations between placental BFRs, TH levels, Type 3 deiodinase (DIO3) activity and TH sulfotransferase (SULT) activities. METHODS Placenta samples collected from 95 women who delivered term (>37 weeks) infants in Durham, NC, USA (enrolled 2010-2011) were analyzed for polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), 2,4,6-tribromophenol (2,4,6-TBP), THs (T4, T3 and rT3), and DIO3 and TH SULT activities. RESULTS PBDEs and 2,4,6-TBP were detected in all placenta samples. PBDEs were higher in placental tissues from male infants compared to female infants, with 2,4,6-TBP and BDE-209 levels approximately twice as high. Among male infants, placental BDE-99 and BDE-209 were negatively associated with rT3 placental levels. For female infants, placental BDE-99 and 2,4,6-TBP were positively associated with T3 concentrations. DIO3 activity was also significantly higher in placental tissues from male infants compared to females, while 3,3'-T2 SULT activity was significantly higher in placental tissues from females compared to males. Among males, several PBDE congeners were positively correlated with T3 SULT, while BDE-99 was negatively associated with T3 SULT among females. Associations generally remained after adjustment for potential confounding by maternal age and gestational age at delivery. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest BFRs accumulate in the placenta and potentially alter TH function in a sex-specific manner, a possible mechanism to explain the sex-dependent impacts of environmental exposure on children's growth and development. More research is needed to elucidate the effects of BFRs on placenta function during pregnancy, as well as the biological consequences of exposure and thyroid disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Leonetti
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, 9 Circuit Drive, Box 90328, Durham, NC 27708 USA
| | - Craig M. Butt
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, 9 Circuit Drive, Box 90328, Durham, NC 27708 USA
| | - Kate Hoffman
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, 9 Circuit Drive, Box 90328, Durham, NC 27708 USA
| | - Stephanie C. Hammel
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, 9 Circuit Drive, Box 90328, Durham, NC 27708 USA
| | | | - Heather M. Stapleton
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, 9 Circuit Drive, Box 90328, Durham, NC 27708 USA
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Morello-Frosch R, Cushing LJ, Jesdale BM, Schwartz JM, Guo W, Guo T, Wang M, Harwani S, Petropoulou SSE, Duong W, Park JS, Petreas M, Gajek R, Alvaran J, She J, Dobraca D, Das R, Woodruff TJ. Environmental Chemicals in an Urban Population of Pregnant Women and Their Newborns from San Francisco. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2016; 50:12464-12472. [PMID: 27700069 PMCID: PMC6681912 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.6b03492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Exposures to environmental pollutants in utero may increase the risk of adverse health effects. We measured the concentrations of 59 potentially harmful chemicals in 77 maternal and 65 paired umbilical cord blood samples collected in San Francisco during 2010-2011, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), hydroxylated PBDEs (OH-PBDEs), and perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) in serum and metals in whole blood. Consistent with previous studies, we found evidence that concentrations of mercury (Hg) and lower-brominated PBDEs were often higher in umbilical cord blood or serum than in maternal samples (median cord:maternal ratio > 1), while for most PFCs and lead (Pb), concentrations in cord blood or serum were generally equal to or lower than their maternal pair (median cord:maternal ratio ≤ 1). In contrast to the conclusions of a recent review, we found evidence that several PCBs and OCPs were also often higher in cord than maternal serum (median cord:maternal ratio > 1) when concentrations are assessed on a lipid-adjusted basis. Our findings suggest that for many chemicals, fetuses may experience higher exposures than their mothers and highlight the need to characterize potential health risks and inform policies aimed at reducing sources of exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Morello-Frosch
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy and Management, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
- Corresponding authors: or , Telephone: (510) 643-6358 or 415-476-3198
| | - Lara J. Cushing
- Department of Health Education, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Bill M. Jesdale
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy and Management, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Jackie M. Schwartz
- Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Weihong Guo
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Toxic Substances Control, California Environmental Protection Agency, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Tan Guo
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Toxic Substances Control, California Environmental Protection Agency, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Miaomiao Wang
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Toxic Substances Control, California Environmental Protection Agency, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Suhash Harwani
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Toxic Substances Control, California Environmental Protection Agency, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Syrago-Styliani E. Petropoulou
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Toxic Substances Control, California Environmental Protection Agency, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Wendy Duong
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Toxic Substances Control, California Environmental Protection Agency, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - June-Soo Park
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Toxic Substances Control, California Environmental Protection Agency, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Myrto Petreas
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Toxic Substances Control, California Environmental Protection Agency, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Ryszard Gajek
- Environmental Health Laboratory, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, California, USA
| | - Josephine Alvaran
- Environmental Health Laboratory, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, California, USA
| | - Jianwen She
- Environmental Health Laboratory, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, California, USA
| | - Dina Dobraca
- Environmental Health Investigations Branch, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, California, USA
| | - Rupali Das
- Environmental Health Investigations Branch, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, California, USA
| | - Tracey J. Woodruff
- Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
- Corresponding authors: or , Telephone: (510) 643-6358 or 415-476-3198
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Calafat AM, Ye X, Valentin-Blasini L, Li Z, Mortensen ME, Wong LY. Co-exposure to non-persistent organic chemicals among American pre-school aged children: A pilot study. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2016; 220:55-63. [PMID: 27789189 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2016.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 10/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND General population human biomonitoring programs such as the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) in the United States suggest that chemical exposures are common. Exposures during childhood may affect health later in life, but biomonitoring data in NHANES among pre-school aged children are limited. METHODS A convenience group of 122 3-5year old American boys and girls were recruited in 2013 for a pilot study to assess the feasibility of collecting urine from young children and analyzing it for select chemical exposure biomarkers for future NHANES. Children were primarily Hispanic (64.8%); the remainder was divided between non-Hispanic black, and non-Hispanic white and "other." We measured 52 urinary biomarkers: 13 phthalates and one non-phthalate plasticizer, five phenols and four parabens, 10 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and 19 pesticides. For each biomarker, we calculated descriptive statistics. We also calculated the number of biomarkers detected within each child, and performed principal components analysis (PCA). RESULTS NHANES staff obtained permission to attempt collection of 60mL urine from 3 to 5year olds who participated in the 2013 NHANES health examination; 83% of children successfully provided the target volume. We detected 24 individual biomarkers of pesticides, phenols and parabens, phthalates/non-phthalate plasticizers, and PAHs in 95-100% of children. The median number of biomarkers detected was 37: nine pesticides, five phenols and parabens, 13 phthalates and non-phthalate plasticizers, and 10 PAHs. Biomarkers concentrations appear to be similar to national estimates among 6-11year old children from previous NHANES. PCA suggested high within-class correlations among biomarkers. CONCLUSIONS These young children successfully adhered to the collection protocol and produced enough urine for the quantification of environmental biomarkers currently being measured in NHANES participants 6 years of age and older. Using the same analytical methods employed for the analysis of samples collected from older NHANES participants, in this sample of pre-school aged children we detected multiple chemicals including plasticizers, combustion products, personal-care product chemicals, and pesticides. Starting with NHANES 2015-2016, the NHANES biomonitoring program will include urinary biomarkers for 3-5year old children to provide exposure data to select chemicals at the national level among this age group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia M Calafat
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Hwy, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA.
| | - Xiaoyun Ye
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Hwy, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Liza Valentin-Blasini
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Hwy, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Zheng Li
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Hwy, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Mary E Mortensen
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Hwy, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Lee-Yang Wong
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Hwy, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
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Wang A, Padula A, Sirota M, Woodruff TJ. Environmental influences on reproductive health: the importance of chemical exposures. Fertil Steril 2016; 106:905-29. [PMID: 27513554 PMCID: PMC5158104 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.07.1076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Revised: 07/12/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Chemical exposures during pregnancy can have a profound and life-long impact on human health. Because of the omnipresence of chemicals in our daily life, there is continuous contact with chemicals in food, water, air, and consumer products. Consequently, human biomonitoring studies show that pregnant women around the globe are exposed to a variety of chemicals. In this review we provide a summary of current data on maternal and fetal exposure, as well as health consequences from these exposures. We review several chemical classes, including polychlorinated biphenyls, perfluoroalkyl substances, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, phenols, phthalates, pesticides, and metals. Additionally, we discuss environmental disparities and vulnerable populations, and future research directions. We conclude by providing some recommendations for prevention of chemical exposure and its adverse reproductive health consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aolin Wang
- Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California; Institute for Computational Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Amy Padula
- Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Marina Sirota
- Institute for Computational Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Tracey J Woodruff
- Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California.
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Al-Saleh I, Elkhatib R, Al-Rouqi R, Abduljabbar M, Eltabache C, Al-Rajudi T, Nester M. Alterations in biochemical markers due to mercury (Hg) exposure and its influence on infant's neurodevelopment. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2016; 219:898-914. [PMID: 27453562 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2016.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Revised: 06/26/2016] [Accepted: 07/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the role of oxidative stress due to mercury (Hg) exposure on infant's neurodevelopmental performance. A total of 944 healthy Saudi mothers and their respective infants (aged 3-12 months) were recruited from 57 Primary Health Care Centers in Riyadh City. Total mercury (Hg) was measured in mothers and infants urine and hair samples, as well as mother's blood and breast milk. Methylmercury (MeHg) was determined in the mothers and infants' hair and mother's blood. Urinary 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), malondialdehyde (MDA), and porphyrins were used to assess oxidative stress. The infant's neurodevelopment was evaluated using Denver Developmental Screening Test II (DDST-II) and Parents' Evaluation of Developmental Status. The median total Hg levels in mother's urine, infant's urine, mother's hair, infant's hair, and mother's blood and breast milk were 0.995μg/l, 0.716μg/l, 0.118μg/g dw, 0.101μg/g dw, 0.635μg/l, and 0.884μg/l respectively. The median MeHg levels in mother's hair, infant's hair, and mother's blood were 0.132μg/g dw, 0.091μg/g dw, and 2.341μg/l respectively. A significant interrelationship between mothers and infants Hg measures in various matrices was noted. This suggests that mother's exposure to different forms of Hg (total and/or MeHg) from various sources contributed significantly to the metal body burden of their respective infants. Even though Hg exposure was low, it induced high oxidative stress in mothers and infants. The influence of multiplicative interaction terms between Hg measures and oxidative stress biomarkers was tested using multiple regression analysis. Significant interactions between the urinary Hg levels in mothers and infants and oxidative stress biomarkers (8-OHdG and MDA) were noted. The MeHg levels in mother-infant hair revealed similar interaction patterns. The p-values for both were below 0.001. These observations suggest that the exposure of our infants to Hg via mothers either during pregnancy and/or neonatal life, promoted oxidative stress that might have played a role in infant neurodevelopmental delays that we reported previously. The results confirmed that the interaction between infant's MeHg in hair and 8-OHdG and MDA levels was significantly associated with a delay in DDST-II performance (ß=-0.188, p=0.028). This finding provides an insight into the potential consequences of Hg-induced oxidative stress to infant's cognitive neurodevelopment for the first time. This observation still needs future studies to be validated. Given the low MeHg levels in our population, these findings are of particular importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iman Al-Saleh
- Environmental Health Program, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, PO Box: 3354, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Rola Elkhatib
- Environmental Health Program, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, PO Box: 3354, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reem Al-Rouqi
- Environmental Health Program, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, PO Box: 3354, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mai Abduljabbar
- Environmental Health Program, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, PO Box: 3354, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Chafica Eltabache
- Environmental Health Program, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, PO Box: 3354, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tahreer Al-Rajudi
- Environmental Health Program, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, PO Box: 3354, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Michael Nester
- Department of Neurosciences, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, PO Box: 3354, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
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Leonetti C, Butt CM, Hoffman K, Miranda ML, Stapleton HM. Concentrations of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and 2,4,6-tribromophenol in human placental tissues. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2016; 88:23-29. [PMID: 26700418 PMCID: PMC4755871 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2015.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2015] [Revised: 11/30/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Legacy environmental contaminants such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are widely detected in human tissues. However, few studies have measured PBDEs in placental tissues, and there are no reported measurements of 2,4,6-tribromophenol (2,4,6-TBP) in placental tissues. Measurements of these contaminants are important for understanding potential fetal exposures, as these compounds have been shown to alter thyroid hormone regulation in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we measured a suite of PBDEs and 2,4,6-TBP in 102 human placental tissues collected between 2010 and 2011 in Durham County, North Carolina, USA. The most abundant PBDE congener detected was BDE-47, with a mean concentration of 5.09ng/g lipid (range: 0.12-141ng/g lipid; detection frequency 91%); however, 2,4,6-TBP was ubiquitously detected and present at higher concentrations with a mean concentration of 15.4ng/g lipid (range:1.31-316ng/g lipid; detection frequency 100%). BDE-209 was also detected in more than 50% of the samples, and was significantly associated with 2,4,6-TBP in placental tissues, suggesting they may have a similar source, or that 2,4,6-TBP may be a degradation product of BDE-209. Interestingly, BDE-209 and 2,4,6-TBP were negatively associated with age (rs=-0.16; p=0.10 and rs=-0.17; p=0.08, respectively). The results of this work indicate that PBDEs and 2,4,6-TBP bioaccumulate in human placenta tissue and likely contribute to prenatal exposures to these environmental contaminants. Future studies are needed to determine if these joint exposures are associated with any adverse health measures in infants and children.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Craig M Butt
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kate Hoffman
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Marie Lynn Miranda
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Statistics, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
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Punshon T, Li Z, Marsit CJ, Jackson BP, Baker ER, Karagas MR. Placental Metal Concentrations in Relation to Maternal and Infant Toenails in a U.S. Cohort. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2016; 50:1587-94. [PMID: 26727403 PMCID: PMC4873612 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.5b05316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Metal contaminants cross the placenta, presenting a heightened risk of perturbing fetal development. Information about placental concentrations and transfer of multiple potentially toxic metals from low to moderate exposure is lacking. We measured concentrations of Cd, Pb, Hg, Mn, Se, and Zn in 750 placentas collected from women enrolled in the New Hampshire Birth Cohort Study and examined the correlation between elements, and profiles of potentially toxic metals (Cd, Pb, Hg, and Mn) stratified by nutrient concentrations (Zn and Se) using principal components analyses. We further examined the indirect effects of maternal metal concentrations on infant metal concentrations through placental metal concentrations using structural equation models. Placental metal concentrations were all correlated, particularly Zn and Mn, and Zn and Cd, and the principal component of metals differed by stratum of high versus low Zn and Se. Associations were observed between placenta and maternal toenail Se (β = 63.49; P < 0.0001) and Pb (β = 0.90; P < 0.0001) but not other metals. Structural equation models did not indicate any statistically significant indirect effects through placental metal concentrations. Placental metal concentrations may represent a distinct biomarker of metal exposure and adverse health impacts to the fetus, particularly those stemming from the placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy Punshon
- Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755
- Address correspondence and reprint requests to: Tracy Punshon, PhD, Research Assistant Professor, Department of Biology, Dartmouth College, 78 College Street, Hanover, NH 03756, Tel: (603) 646 1037, Fax: (603) 646 1347,
| | - Zhigang Li
- Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755
| | - Carmen J. Marsit
- Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755
| | | | - Emily R. Baker
- Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH, 03756
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Fromme H, Becher G, Hilger B, Völkel W. Brominated flame retardants – Exposure and risk assessment for the general population. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2016; 219:1-23. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2015.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2015] [Revised: 08/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Early-Life Toxic Insults and Onset of Sporadic Neurodegenerative Diseases-an Overview of Experimental Studies. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2015; 29:231-264. [PMID: 26695168 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2015_416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The developmental origin of health and disease hypothesis states that adverse fetal and early childhood exposures can predispose to obesity, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) in adult life. Early exposure to environmental chemicals interferes with developmental programming and induces subclinical alterations that may hesitate in pathophysiology and behavioral deficits at a later life stage. The mechanisms by which perinatal insults lead to altered programming and to disease later in life are still undefined. The long latency between exposure and onset of disease, the difficulty of reconstructing early exposures, and the wealth of factors which the individual is exposed to during the life course make extremely difficult to prove the developmental origin of NDDs in clinical and epidemiological studies. An overview of animal studies assessing the long-term effects of perinatal exposure to different chemicals (heavy metals and pesticides) supports the link between exposure and hallmarks of neurodegeneration at the adult stage. Furthermore, models of maternal immune activation show that brain inflammation in early life may enhance adult vulnerability to environmental toxins, thus supporting the multiple hit hypothesis for NDDs' etiology. The study of prospective animal cohorts may help to unraveling the complex pathophysiology of sporadic NDDs. In vivo models could be a powerful tool to clarify the mechanisms through which different kinds of insults predispose to cell loss in the adult age, to establish a cause-effect relationship between "omic" signatures and disease/dysfunction later in life, and to identify peripheral biomarkers of exposure, effects, and susceptibility, for translation to prospective epidemiological studies.
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