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Vielee ST, Wise JP. Among Gerontogens, Heavy Metals Are a Class of Their Own: A Review of the Evidence for Cellular Senescence. Brain Sci 2023; 13:500. [PMID: 36979310 PMCID: PMC10046019 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13030500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Advancements in modern medicine have improved the quality of life across the globe and increased the average lifespan of our population by multiple decades. Current estimates predict by 2030, 12% of the global population will reach a geriatric age and live another 3-4 decades. This swelling geriatric population will place critical stress on healthcare infrastructures due to accompanying increases in age-related diseases and comorbidities. While much research focused on long-lived individuals seeks to answer questions regarding how to age healthier, there is a deficit in research investigating what aspects of our lives accelerate or exacerbate aging. In particular, heavy metals are recognized as a significant threat to human health with links to a plethora of age-related diseases, and have widespread human exposures from occupational, medical, or environmental settings. We believe heavy metals ought to be classified as a class of gerontogens (i.e., chemicals that accelerate biological aging in cells and tissues). Gerontogens may be best studied through their effects on the "Hallmarks of Aging", nine physiological hallmarks demonstrated to occur in aged cells, tissues, and bodies. Evidence suggests that cellular senescence-a permanent growth arrest in cells-is one of the most pertinent hallmarks of aging and is a useful indicator of aging in tissues. Here, we discuss the roles of heavy metals in brain aging. We briefly discuss brain aging in general, then expand upon observations for heavy metals contributing to age-related neurodegenerative disorders. We particularly emphasize the roles and observations of cellular senescence in neurodegenerative diseases. Finally, we discuss the observations for heavy metals inducing cellular senescence. The glaring lack of knowledge about gerontogens and gerontogenic mechanisms necessitates greater research in the field, especially in the context of the global aging crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel T. Vielee
- Pediatrics Research Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - John P. Wise
- Pediatrics Research Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
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Zhang L, Chu J, Xia B, Xiong Z, Zhang S, Tang W. Health Effects of Particulate Uranium Exposure. TOXICS 2022; 10:575. [PMID: 36287855 PMCID: PMC9610560 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10100575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Uranium contamination has become a nonnegligible global health problem. Inhalation of particulate uranium is one of the predominant routes of occupational and environmental exposure. Uranium particle is a complex two-phase flow of matter that is both particulate and flowable. This particular physicochemical property may alter its biological activity. Epidemiological studies from occupationally exposed populations in the uranium industry have concluded that there is a possible association between lung cancer risk and uranium exposure, while the evidence for the risk of other tumors is not sufficient. The toxicological effects of particulate uranium exposure to animals have been shown in laboratory tests to focus on respiratory and central nervous system damage. Fibrosis and tumors can occur in the lung tissue of the respiratory tract. Uranium particles can also induce a concentration-dependent increase in cytotoxicity, targeting mitochondria. The understanding of the health risks and potential toxicological mechanisms of particulate uranium contamination is still at a preliminary stage. The diversity of particle parameters has limited the in-depth exploration. This review summarizes the current evidence on the toxicology of particulate uranium and highlights the knowledge gaps and research prospects.
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3
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Banerjee S, Kundu A, Dhak P. Bioremediation of uranium from waste effluents using novel biosorbents: a review. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10967-022-08304-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Guéguen Y, Frerejacques M. Review of Knowledge of Uranium-Induced Kidney Toxicity for the Development of an Adverse Outcome Pathway to Renal Impairment. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084397. [PMID: 35457214 PMCID: PMC9030063 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
An adverse outcome pathway (AOP) is a conceptual construct of causally and sequentially linked events, which occur during exposure to stressors, with an adverse outcome relevant to risk assessment. The development of an AOP is a means of identifying knowledge gaps in order to prioritize research assessing the health risks associated with exposure to physical or chemical stressors. In this paper, a review of knowledge was proposed, examining experimental and epidemiological data, in order to identify relevant key events and potential key event relationships in an AOP for renal impairment, relevant to stressors such as uranium (U). Other stressors may promote similar pathways, and this review is a necessary step to compare and combine knowledge reported for nephrotoxicants. U metal ions are filtered through the glomerular membrane of the kidneys, then concentrate in the cortical and juxtaglomerular areas, and bind to the brush border membrane of the proximal convoluted tubules. U uptake by epithelial cells occurs through endocytosis and the sodium-dependent phosphate co-transporter (NaPi-IIa). The identified key events start with the inhibition of the mitochondria electron transfer chain and the collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential, due to cytochrome b5/cytochrome c disruption. In the nucleus, U directly interacts with negatively charged DNA phosphate, thereby inducing an adduct formation, and possibly DNA strand breaks or cross-links. U also compromises DNA repair by inhibiting zing finger proteins. Thereafter, U triggers the Nrf2, NF-κB, or endoplasmic reticulum stress pathways. The resulting cellular key events include oxidative stress, DNA strand breaks and chromosomal aberrations, apoptosis, and pro-inflammatory effects. Finally, the main adverse outcome is tubular damage of the S2 and S3 segments of the kidneys, leading to tubular cell death, and then kidney failure. The attribution of renal carcinogenesis due to U is controversial, and specific experimental or epidemiological studies must be conducted. A tentative construction of an AOP for uranium-induced kidney toxicity and failure was proposed.
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Ma M, Wang R, Xu L, Xu M, Liu S. Emerging health risks and underlying toxicological mechanisms of uranium contamination: Lessons from the past two decades. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 145:106107. [PMID: 32932066 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.106107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Uranium contamination is a global health concern. Regarding natural or anthropogenic uranium contamination, the major sources of concern are groundwater, mining, phosphate fertilizers, nuclear facilities, and military activities. Many epidemiological and laboratory studies have demonstrated that environmental and occupational uranium exposure can induce multifarious health problems. Uranium exposure may cause health risks because of its chemotoxicity and radiotoxicity in natural or anthropogenic scenarios: the former is generally thought to play a more significant role with regard to the natural uranium exposure, and the latter is more relevant to enriched uranium exposure. The understanding of the health risks and underlying toxicological mechanisms of uranium remains at a preliminary stage, and many controversial findings require further research. In order to present state-of-the-art status in this field, this review will primarily focus on the chemotoxicity of uranium, rather than its radiotoxicity, as well as the involved toxicological mechanisms. First, the natural or anthropogenic uranium contamination scenarios will be briefly summarized. Second, the health risks upon natural uranium exposure, for example, nephrotoxicity, bone toxicity, reproductive toxicity, hepatotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and pulmonary toxicity, will be discussed based on the reported epidemiological cases and laboratory studies. Third, the recent advances regarding the toxicological mechanisms of uranium-induced chemotoxicity will be highlighted, including oxidative stress, genetic damage, protein impairment, inflammation, and metabolic disorder. Finally, the gaps and challenges in the knowledge of uranium-induced chemotoxicity and underlying mechanisms will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minghao Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ruixia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Lining Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ming Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Sijin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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Ran Y, Wang S, Zhao Y, Li J, Ran X, Hao Y. A review of biological effects and treatments of inhaled depleted uranium aerosol. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2020; 222:106357. [PMID: 32755761 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2020.106357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Depleted uranium (DU) is primarily used for DU bombs and DU tanks in the military. Aerosol inhalation is considered the primary route of DU exposure. Although laboratory tests have confirmed that inhalation of DU aerosol can cause lung, kidney, and other organ damage, epidemiological studies have found no conclusive evidence that persons in areas with prolonged exposure to DU-containing bombs are affected. After the body inhaled DU aerosols, we first clear the insoluble DU through whole-lung lavage (WLL). Then we eliminate the soluble uranium by the chelating agent. Besides, reducing DU damage to tissues and cells through drugs is also an important treatment method. In future research, emphasis should be placed on the damage mechanism of DU aerosol, the laboratory and clinical research of DU chelating agents, the research on the combination of DU chelating agent and WLL, and the research and development of new drugs to prevent DU damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonghong Ran
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, No.30 Gaotanyan Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Shuang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, No.30 Gaotanyan Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yazhen Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, No.30 Gaotanyan Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Juan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, No.30 Gaotanyan Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Xinze Ran
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, No.30 Gaotanyan Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yuhui Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Institute of Combined Injury, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, No.30 Gaotanyan Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400038, China.
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7
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Lind OC, Tschiersch J, Salbu B. Nanometer-micrometer sized depleted uranium (DU) particles in the environment. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2020; 211:106077. [PMID: 31677431 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2019.106077] [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: 06/07/2019] [Revised: 10/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/13/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Depleted uranium (DU) is a waste product from uranium enrichment that has several civilian and military applications. Significant amounts of DU in the form of particles or as fragments have been released into the environment as a consequence of military use of DU munitions, of industrial releases and of aircraft accidents. Thus, the present paper summarizes present knowledge on nanometer-micrometer sized depleted uranium (DU) particles collected in areas contaminated with such particles. Analysis of DU particles released to the environment has shown that uranium can be present in different crystalline structures and in different oxidation states. The weathering rates of DU particles and the subsequent remobilization of uranium species are also strongly connected to the oxidation state and crystalline phases of uranium, influencing the mobility and potential ecosystem transfer. Therefore, as has been observed for radioactive particles released from most nuclear events, the characteristics of DU particles can be linked to the source term and the release scenario as well as to environmental transformation processes. Although the radiation dose and radiotoxicity of DU is less than from natural occurring uranium, the mobility of U from oxidized DU and the associated chemical toxicity could be significantly higher than from natural UO2. The present paper summarizes present knowledge on depleted uranium particles identified in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ole Christian Lind
- CERAD CoE Environmental Radioactivity, Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), 1433, Aas, Norway.
| | - Jochen Tschiersch
- Helmholtz Zentrum München GmbH, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Institute of Radiation Medicine, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Brit Salbu
- CERAD CoE Environmental Radioactivity, Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), 1433, Aas, Norway
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Rossberg A, Abe T, Okuwaki K, Barkleit A, Fukuzawa K, Nakano T, Mochizuki Y, Tsushima S. Destabilization of DNA through interstrand crosslinking by UO 22. Chem Commun (Camb) 2019; 55:2015-2018. [PMID: 30643910 DOI: 10.1039/c8cc09329f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
UO22+ was shown to form an interstrand crosslink between two different strands of a single DNA molecule. This crosslink hardly affected the hydrogen bonds between nucleobase pairs but destabilized the π-π stacking between the two nucleobases in the vicinity of UO22+-bound phosphate. Thereby, the fragility of the DNA backbone increased upon UO22+ binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Rossberg
- Institute of Resource Ecology, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, 01328, Germany.
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Asic A, Kurtovic-Kozaric A, Besic L, Mehinovic L, Hasic A, Kozaric M, Hukic M, Marjanovic D. Chemical toxicity and radioactivity of depleted uranium: The evidence from in vivo and in vitro studies. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2017; 156:665-673. [PMID: 28472753 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2017.04.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Revised: 04/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/22/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The main aim of this review is to summarize and discuss the current state of knowledge on chemical toxicity and radioactivity of depleted uranium (DU) and their effect on living systems and cell lines. This was done by presenting a summary of previous investigations conducted on different mammalian body systems and cell cultures in terms of potential changes caused by either chemical toxicity or radioactivity of DU. In addition, the authors aimed to point out the limitations of those studies and possible future directions. The majority of both in vitro and in vivo studies performed using animal models regarding possible effects caused by acute or chronic DU exposure has been reviewed. Furthermore, exposure time and dose, DU particle solubility, and uranium isotopes as factors affecting the extent of DU effects have been discussed. Special attention has been dedicated to chromosomal aberrations, DNA damage and DNA breaks, as well as micronuclei formation and epigenetic changes, as DU has recently been considered a possible causative factor of all these processes. Therefore, this approach might represent a novel area of study of DU-related irradiation effects on health. Since different studies offer contradictory results, the main aim of this review is to summarize and briefly discuss previously obtained results in order to identify the current opinion on DU toxicity and radioactivity effects in relation to exposure type and duration, as well as DU properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adna Asic
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, International Burch University, Francuske revolucije bb, Ilidza, 71210 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Amina Kurtovic-Kozaric
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, International Burch University, Francuske revolucije bb, Ilidza, 71210 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; Department of Pathology, Cytology and Human Genetics, Clinical Center of the University of Sarajevo, Bolnicka 25, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; Department of Biology, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 33-35, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
| | - Larisa Besic
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, International Burch University, Francuske revolucije bb, Ilidza, 71210 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Lejla Mehinovic
- Department of Biology, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 33-35, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Azra Hasic
- Department of Biology, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 33-35, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Mirza Kozaric
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, International Burch University, Francuske revolucije bb, Ilidza, 71210 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; Department of Pathology, Cytology and Human Genetics, Clinical Center of the University of Sarajevo, Bolnicka 25, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Mirsada Hukic
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, International Burch University, Francuske revolucije bb, Ilidza, 71210 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; Academy of Sciences and Art of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bistrik 7, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; Institute for Biomedical Diagnostics Nalaz, Hasana Brkica 2, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Damir Marjanovic
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, International Burch University, Francuske revolucije bb, Ilidza, 71210 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; Institute for Anthropologic Research, Ljudevita Gaja 32, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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10
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Wang M, Ding W, Wang D. Binding mechanism of uranyl to transferrin implicated by density functional theory study. RSC Adv 2017. [DOI: 10.1039/c6ra26109d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The binding of uranyl to serum transferrin follows a Tyr* → Tyr* → Asp* stepwise mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry
- Ministry of Education
- College of Chemistry
- Beijing Normal University
- Beijing 100875
| | - Wanjian Ding
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry
- Ministry of Education
- College of Chemistry
- Beijing Normal University
- Beijing 100875
| | - Dongqi Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nuclear Radiation and Nuclear Energy Techniques
- Institute of High Energy Physics
- Chinese Academy of Sciences
- Beijing 100049
- China
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11
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Rashidi Nassab H, Bakhshi M, Amini MK. Adsorptive Cathodic Stripping Voltammetric Determination of Uranium(VI) in Presence ofN-Phenylanthranilic Acid. ELECTROANAL 2014. [DOI: 10.1002/elan.201400107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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12
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Holmes AL, Joyce K, Xie H, Falank C, Hinz JM, Wise JP. The impact of homologous recombination repair deficiency on depleted uranium clastogenicity in Chinese hamster ovary cells: XRCC3 protects cells from chromosome aberrations, but increases chromosome fragmentation. Mutat Res 2014; 762:1-9. [PMID: 24561002 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrfmmm.2014.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2013] [Revised: 12/23/2013] [Accepted: 02/11/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Depleted uranium (DU) is extensively used in both industry and military applications. The potential for civilian and military personnel exposure to DU is rising, but there are limited data on the potential health hazards of DU exposure. Previous laboratory research indicates DU is a potential carcinogen, but epidemiological studies remain inconclusive. DU is genotoxic, inducing DNA double strand breaks, chromosome damage and mutations, but the mechanisms of genotoxicity or repair pathways involved in protecting cells against DU-induced damage remain unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of homologous recombination repair deficiency on DU-induced genotoxicity using RAD51D and XRCC3-deficient Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell lines. Cells deficient in XRCC3 (irs1SF) exhibited similar cytotoxicity after DU exposure compared to wild-type (AA8) and XRCC3-complemented (1SFwt8) cells, but DU induced more break-type and fusion-type lesions in XRCC3-deficient cells compared to wild-type and XRCC3-complemented cells. Surprisingly, loss of RAD51D did not affect DU-induced cytotoxicity or genotoxicity. DU induced selective X-chromosome fragmentation irrespective of RAD51D status, but loss of XRCC3 nearly eliminated fragmentation observed after DU exposure in wild-type and XRCC3-complemented cells. Thus, XRCC3, but not RAD51D, protects cells from DU-induced breaks and fusions and also plays a role in DU-induced chromosome fragmentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amie L Holmes
- Wise Laboratory of Environmental and Genetic Toxicology, University of Southern Maine, 96 Falmouth St., P.O. Box 9300, Portland, ME 04104-9300, United States of America; Maine Center for Toxicology and Environmental Health, University of Southern Maine, 96 Falmouth St., P.O. Box 9300, Portland, ME 04104-9300, United States of America; Department of Applied Medical Science, University of Southern Maine, 96 Falmouth Street, P.O. Box 9300, Portland, ME 04104-9300, United States of America
| | - Kellie Joyce
- Wise Laboratory of Environmental and Genetic Toxicology, University of Southern Maine, 96 Falmouth St., P.O. Box 9300, Portland, ME 04104-9300, United States of America; Maine Center for Toxicology and Environmental Health, University of Southern Maine, 96 Falmouth St., P.O. Box 9300, Portland, ME 04104-9300, United States of America
| | - Hong Xie
- Wise Laboratory of Environmental and Genetic Toxicology, University of Southern Maine, 96 Falmouth St., P.O. Box 9300, Portland, ME 04104-9300, United States of America; Maine Center for Toxicology and Environmental Health, University of Southern Maine, 96 Falmouth St., P.O. Box 9300, Portland, ME 04104-9300, United States of America; Department of Applied Medical Science, University of Southern Maine, 96 Falmouth Street, P.O. Box 9300, Portland, ME 04104-9300, United States of America
| | - Carolyne Falank
- Wise Laboratory of Environmental and Genetic Toxicology, University of Southern Maine, 96 Falmouth St., P.O. Box 9300, Portland, ME 04104-9300, United States of America; Maine Center for Toxicology and Environmental Health, University of Southern Maine, 96 Falmouth St., P.O. Box 9300, Portland, ME 04104-9300, United States of America
| | - John M Hinz
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Biotechnology and Life Sciences Building, Pullman, WA 99164-7520, United States of America
| | - John Pierce Wise
- Wise Laboratory of Environmental and Genetic Toxicology, University of Southern Maine, 96 Falmouth St., P.O. Box 9300, Portland, ME 04104-9300, United States of America; Maine Center for Toxicology and Environmental Health, University of Southern Maine, 96 Falmouth St., P.O. Box 9300, Portland, ME 04104-9300, United States of America; Department of Applied Medical Science, University of Southern Maine, 96 Falmouth Street, P.O. Box 9300, Portland, ME 04104-9300, United States of America.
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13
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Robertson A, Allen J, Laney R, Curnow A. The cellular and molecular carcinogenic effects of radon exposure: a review. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:14024-63. [PMID: 23880854 PMCID: PMC3742230 DOI: 10.3390/ijms140714024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2013] [Revised: 06/14/2013] [Accepted: 06/17/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Radon-222 is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is responsible for approximately half of the human annual background radiation exposure globally. Chronic exposure to radon and its decay products is estimated to be the second leading cause of lung cancer behind smoking, and links to other forms of neoplasms have been postulated. Ionizing radiation emitted during the radioactive decay of radon and its progeny can induce a variety of cytogenetic effects that can be biologically damaging and result in an increased risk of carcinogenesis. Suggested effects produced as a result of alpha particle exposure from radon include mutations, chromosome aberrations, generation of reactive oxygen species, modification of the cell cycle, up or down regulation of cytokines and the increased production of proteins associated with cell-cycle regulation and carcinogenesis. A number of potential biomarkers of exposure, including translocations at codon 249 of TP53 in addition to HPRT mutations, have been suggested although, in conclusion, the evidence for such hotspots is insufficient. There is also substantial evidence of bystander effects, which may provide complications when calculating risk estimates as a result of exposure, particularly at low doses where cellular responses often appear to deviate from the linear, no-threshold hypothesis. At low doses, effects may also be dependent on cellular conditions as opposed to dose. The cellular and molecular carcinogenic effects of radon exposure have been observed to be both numerous and complex and the elevated chronic exposure of man may therefore pose a significant public health risk that may extend beyond the association with lung carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Robertson
- Clinical Photobiology, European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3HD, UK; E-Mails: (J.A.); (A.C.)
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +44-1872-256-432; Fax: +44-1872-256-497
| | - James Allen
- Clinical Photobiology, European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3HD, UK; E-Mails: (J.A.); (A.C.)
| | - Robin Laney
- Clinical Oncology, Sunrise Centre, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3LJ, UK; E-Mail:
| | - Alison Curnow
- Clinical Photobiology, European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3HD, UK; E-Mails: (J.A.); (A.C.)
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Belosludtsev KN, Garmash SA, Belosludtseva NV, Belova SP, Berezhnov AV, Gudkov SV. Study of the mechanisms of cytotoxic effect of uranyl nitrate. Biophysics (Nagoya-shi) 2012; 57:607-612. [DOI: 10.1134/s000635091205003x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
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15
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McDiarmid MA, Albertini RJ, Tucker JD, Vacek PM, Carter EW, Bakhmutsky MV, Oliver MS, Engelhardt SM, Squibb KS. Measures of genotoxicity in Gulf war I veterans exposed to depleted uranium. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2011; 52:569-581. [PMID: 21728185 DOI: 10.1002/em.20658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2011] [Revised: 04/12/2011] [Accepted: 04/13/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to depleted uranium (DU), an alpha-emitting heavy metal, has prompted the inclusion of markers of genotoxicity in the long-term medical surveillance of a cohort of DU-exposed Gulf War veterans followed since 1994. Using urine U (uU) concentration as the measure of U body burden, the cohort has been stratified into low-u (<0.10 μg U/g creatinine) and high-u groups (≥ 0.10 μg U/g creatinine). Surveillance outcomes for this cohort have historically included markers of mutagenicity and clastogenicity, with past results showing generally nonsignificant differences between low- vs. high-U groups. However, mean hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyl transferase (HPRT) mutant frequencies (MFs) have been almost 50% higher in the high-U group. We report here results of a more comprehensive protocol performed in a 2009 evaluation of a subgroup (N = 35) of this cohort. Four biomarkers of genotoxicity [micronuclei (MN), chromosome aberrations, and MFs of HPRT and PIGA] were examined. There were no statistically significant differences in any outcome measure when results were compared between the low- vs. high-U groups. However, modeling of the HPRT MF results suggests a possible threshold effect for MFs occurring in the highest U exposed cohort members. Mutational spectral analysis of HPRT mutations is underway to clarify a potential clonal vs. a threshold uU effect to explain this observation. This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of a human population chronically exposed to DU and demonstrates a relatively weak genotoxic effect of the DU exposure. These results may explain the lack of clear epidemiologic evidence for U carcinogenicity in humans. Environ. Mol. Mutagen., 2011. © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa A McDiarmid
- Occupational Health Program, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
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16
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Hémadi M, Ha-Duong NT, El Hage Chahine JM. Can Uranium Be Transported by the Iron-Acquisition Pathway? Ur Uptake by Transferrin. J Phys Chem B 2011; 115:4206-15. [DOI: 10.1021/jp111950c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Miryana Hémadi
- ITODYS, Interactions, Traitements et Organisation et Dynamique des Systèmes, Université Paris-Diderot, CNRS UMR 7086, 15 rue Jean-Antoine de Baïf, 75205 Paris Cedex 13, France
| | - Nguyêt-Thanh Ha-Duong
- ITODYS, Interactions, Traitements et Organisation et Dynamique des Systèmes, Université Paris-Diderot, CNRS UMR 7086, 15 rue Jean-Antoine de Baïf, 75205 Paris Cedex 13, France
| | - Jean-Michel El Hage Chahine
- ITODYS, Interactions, Traitements et Organisation et Dynamique des Systèmes, Université Paris-Diderot, CNRS UMR 7086, 15 rue Jean-Antoine de Baïf, 75205 Paris Cedex 13, France
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17
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Heintze E, Aguilera C, Davis M, Fricker A, Li Q, Martinez J, Gage MJ. Toxicity of depleted uranium complexes is independent of p53 activity. J Inorg Biochem 2011; 105:142-8. [PMID: 21194611 PMCID: PMC3018829 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2010.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2010] [Revised: 10/19/2010] [Accepted: 10/20/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The p53 tumor suppressor protein is one of the key checkpoints in cellular response to a variety of stress mechanisms, including exposure to various toxic metal complexes. Previous studies have demonstrated that arsenic and chromium complexes are able to activate p53, but there is a dearth of data investigating whether uranium complexes exhibit similar effects. The use of depleted uranium (DU) has increased in recent years, raising concern about DU's potential carcinogenic effects. Previous studies have shown that uranyl acetate and uranyl nitrate are capable of inducing DNA strand breaks and potentially of inducing oxidative stress through free radical generation, two potential mechanisms for activation of p53. Based on these studies, we hypothesized that either uranyl acetate or uranyl nitrate could act as an activator of p53. We tested this hypothesis using a combination of cytotoxicity assays, p53 activity assays, western blotting and flow cytometry. All of our results demonstrate that there is not a p53-mediated response to either uranyl acetate or uranyl nitrate, demonstrating that any cellular response to uranium exposure likely occurs in a p53-independent fashion under the conditions studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellie Heintze
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011
| | - Camille Aguilera
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011
| | - Malia Davis
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011
| | - Avery Fricker
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011
| | - Qiang Li
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, AZ, 85724
| | - Jesse Martinez
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, AZ, 85724
| | - Matthew J. Gage
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011
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18
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Brugge D, Buchner V. Health effects of uranium: new research findings. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2011; 26:231-49. [PMID: 22435323 DOI: 10.1515/reveh.2011.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Recent plans for a nuclear renaissance in both established and emerging economies have prompted increased interest in uranium mining. With the potential for more uranium mining worldwide and a growth in the literature on the toxicology and epidemiology of uranium and uranium mining, we found it timely to review the current state of knowledge. Here, we present a review of the health effects of uranium mining, with an emphasis on newer findings (2005-2011). Uranium mining can contaminate air, water, and soil. The chemical toxicity of the metal constitutes the primary environmental health hazard, with the radioactivity of uranium a secondary concern. The update of the toxicologic evidence on uranium adds to the established findings regarding nephrotoxicity, genotoxicity, and developmental defects. Additional novel toxicologic findings, including some at the molecular level, are now emerging that raise the biological plausibility of adverse effects on the brain, on reproduction, including estrogenic effects, on gene expression, and on uranium metabolism. Historically, most epidemiology on uranium mining has focused on mine workers and radon exposure. Although that situation is still overwhelmingly true, a smaller emerging literature has begun to form around environmental exposure in residential areas near uranium mining and processing facilities. We present and critique such studies. Clearly, more epidemiologic research is needed to contribute to causal inference. As much damage is irreversible, and possibly cumulative, present efforts must be vigorous to limit environmental uranium contamination and exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doug Brugge
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA.
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19
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Pourahmad J, Shaki F, Tanbakosazan F, Ghalandari R, Ettehadi HA, Dahaghin E. Protective effects of fungal β-(1→3)-D-glucan against oxidative stress cytotoxicity induced by depleted uranium in isolated rat hepatocytes. Hum Exp Toxicol 2010; 30:173-81. [PMID: 20522489 DOI: 10.1177/0960327110372643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Previous reports suggested that certain carbohydrate polymers, such as β-(1→3)-D-glucan, may possess free radical scavenging activity. The present study examined the free radical scavenging activity of a carbohydrate polymer, β-(1→3)-D-glucan against oxidative stress induced by depleted uranium in isolated rat hepatocytes. Addition of U (VI) (uranyl acetate) to isolated rat hepatocytes results in reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, rapid glutathione depletion, mitochondrial membrane potential collapse and lysosomal membrane rupture before hepatocyte lysis occurred. Our results showed that quite similar to silymarin, which is a known antioxidant and radical scavenger, tiny concentration of β-glucan (138 nM) very successfully protected the hepatocytes against cell lysis and all oxidative stress cytotoxicity endpoints caused by depleted uranium including ROS formation, glutathione depletion, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, lysosomal membrane rupture and caspase 3 activity increase. In conclusion, our results confirmed the antioxidant and radical scavenging activity of β-(1→3)-D-glucan and suggested this compound and silymarin as possible drug candidates for prophylaxis and treatment against depleted uranium toxic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jalal Pourahmad
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Shaheed Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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20
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Xie H, LaCerte C, Thompson WD, Wise JP. Depleted uranium induces neoplastic transformation in human lung epithelial cells. Chem Res Toxicol 2010; 23:373-8. [PMID: 20000475 DOI: 10.1021/tx9003598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Depleted uranium (DU) is commonly used in military armor and munitions, and thus, exposure of soldiers and noncombatants is frequent and widespread. Previous studies have shown that DU has both chemical and radiological toxicity and that the primary route of exposure of DU to humans is through inhalation and ingestion. However, there is limited research information on the potential carcinogenicity of DU in human bronchial cells. Accordingly, we determined the neoplastic transforming ability of particulate DU to human bronchial epithelial cells (BEP2D). We observed the loss of contact inhibition and anchorage independent growth in cells exposed to DU after 24 h. We also characterized these DU-induced transformed cell lines and found that 40% of the cell lines exhibit alterations in plating efficiency and no significant changes in the cytotoxic response to DU. Cytogenetic analyses showed that 53% of the DU-transformed cell lines possess a hypodiploid phenotype. These data indicate that human bronchial cells are transformed by DU and exhibit significant chromosome instability consistent with a neoplastic phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Xie
- Wise Laboratory of Environmental and Genetic Toxicology, Maine Center for Toxicology and Environmental Health, Department of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Southern Maine, 96 Falmouth Street, P.O. Box 9300, Portland, Maine 04104-9300, USA
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21
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LaCerte C, Xie H, Aboueissa AM, Wise JP. Particulate depleted uranium is cytotoxic and clastogenic to human lung epithelial cells. Mutat Res 2010; 697:33-7. [PMID: 20172046 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2010.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2009] [Revised: 01/21/2010] [Accepted: 01/30/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Depleted uranium (DU) is commonly used in military applications and consequently exposure to soldiers and non-combatants is potentially frequent and widespread. DU is suspected to be a carcinogen, potentially affecting the bronchial cells of the lung. Few studies have considered DU in human bronchial cells. Accordingly, we determined the cytotoxicity and clastogenicity of particulate DU in human bronchial epithelial cells (BEP2D cells). DU-induced concentration-dependent cytotoxicity in human bronchial epithelial cells, and was not clastogenic after 24h but induced chromosomal aberrations after 48h. These data indicate that if DU is a human bronchial carcinogen, it is likely acting through a mechanism that involves DNA breaks after longer exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyne LaCerte
- Wise Laboratory of Environmental and Genetic Toxicology, University of Southern Maine, 96 Falmouth St., PO Box 9300, Portland
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22
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Hémadi M, Ha-Duong NT, Plantevin S, Vidaud C, El Hage Chahine JM. Can uranium follow the iron-acquisition pathway? Interaction of uranyl-loaded transferrin with receptor 1. J Biol Inorg Chem 2009; 15:497-504. [DOI: 10.1007/s00775-009-0618-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2009] [Accepted: 12/17/2009] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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23
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Li WB, Gerstmann UC, Höllriegl V, Szymczak W, Roth P, Hoeschen C, Oeh U. Radiation dose assessment of exposure to depleted uranium. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2009; 19:502-514. [PMID: 18596688 DOI: 10.1038/jes.2008.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2008] [Accepted: 05/24/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Depleted uranium (DU) is claimed to contribute to human health problems, known as the Gulf War Syndrome and the Balkan Syndrome. Quantitative radiation dose is required to estimate the health risk of DU materials. The influences of the solubility parameters in the human alimentary tract and the respiratory tract systems and the aerosol particles size on the radiation dose of DU materials were evaluated. The dose conversion factor of daily urinary excretion of DU is provided. The retention and excretion of DU in the human body after a contamination at a wound site were predicted. Dose coefficients of DU after ingestion and inhalation were calculated using the solubility parameters of the DU corrosion products in simulated gastric and simulated lung fluid, which were determined in the Helmholtz Zentrum München. (238)U is the main radiation dose contributor per 1 Bq of DU materials. The dose coefficients of DU materials were estimated to be 3.5 x 10(-8) and 2.1 x 10(-6) Sv Bq(-1) after ingestion and inhalation for members of the public. The ingestion dose coefficient of DU materials is about 75% of the natural uranium value. The inhalation dose coefficient of DU material is in between those for Type M and Type S according to the category for inhaled materials defined by the International Commission on Radiological Protection. Radiation dose possibly received from DU materials can directly be estimated by using the dose conversion factor provided in this study, if daily urinary excretion of DU is measured.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Bo Li
- Institute of Radiation Protection, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health (GmbH), Neuherberg, Germany.
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24
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Abstract
This article describes uranium and depleted uranium (DU), their similar isotopic compositions, how DU arises, its use in munitions and armour-proofing, and its pathways for human exposures. Particular attention is paid to the evidence of DU's health effects from cell and animal experiments and from epidemiology studies. It is concluded that a precautionary approach should be adopted to DU and that there should be a moratorium on its use by military forces. International efforts to this end are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Fairlie
- Independent Consultant on Radioactivity in the Environment, London, UK.
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25
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Zhu G, Tan M, Li Y, Xiang X, Hu H, Zhao S. Accumulation and distribution of uranium in rats after implantation with depleted uranium fragments. JOURNAL OF RADIATION RESEARCH 2009; 50:183-192. [PMID: 19531921 DOI: 10.1269/jrr.08104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of our study was to clarify the accumulation and distribution of uranium in depleted uranium (DU) implanted rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley rats were surgically implanted in gastrocnemius muscle with DU fragments at 3 dose levels (low, medium and high), and biologically inert tantalum (Ta) fragments were used as controls. At 1 day and 7, 30, 90, 180 and 360 days after implantation, the rats were euthanized and tissue samples including serum and urine were collected to analyze the uranium levels by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). RESULTS At all time points, uranium levels in all the DU implanted groups were higher than that in Ta control group, and uranium concentrations in kidney and bone were significantly greater than that in other tissues. Otherwise, uranium concentrations increased with a close correlation to the implanted DU doses and duration of exposure, with a peak at 90 days post-implantation, after which followed by a decreasing period, but still maintained at a relatively high level even at 360 days post- implantation. The uranium concentrations in bone were 6.92 +/- 0.97 microg U/g, 16.35 +/- 1.67 microg U/g and 21.64 +/- 3.68 microg U/g in the low-, medium- and high-dose group animals, while values in kidney tissues were 10.66 +/- 1.10 microg U/g, 14.06 +/- 1.28 microg U/g and 17.79 +/- 2.87 microg U/g, respectively, at 360 days post-implantation. CONCLUSION It was concluded that kidney and bone are the primary reservoirs for uranium redistributed from intramuscularly embedded fragments, and the accumulations in kidney, bone and many other tissues suggest the potential for unanticipated physiological consequences of chronic exposure to DU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoying Zhu
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Fudan University.
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26
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Periyakaruppan A, Sarkar S, Ravichandran P, Sadanandan B, Sharma CS, Ramesh V, Hall JC, Thomas R, Wilson BL, Ramesh GT. Uranium induces apoptosis in lung epithelial cells. Arch Toxicol 2008; 83:595-600. [PMID: 19096828 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-008-0396-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2008] [Accepted: 11/25/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Uranium is a naturally occurring radioactive material present everywhere in the environment. It is toxic because of its chemical or radioactive properties. Uranium enters environment mainly from mines and industry and cause threat to human health by accumulating in lungs as a result of inhalation. In our previous study, we have shown the effectiveness of antioxidant system response to the oxidative stress induced by uranyl acetate (UA) in rat lung epithelial (LE) cells. As part of our continuing studies; here, we investigated the mechanism underlying when LE cells are exposed to different concentration of UA. Oxidative stress may lead to apoptotic signaling pathways. LE cells treated with 0.25, 0.5 and 1 mM of UA results in dose and time-dependent increase in activity of both caspases-3 and -8. Increase in the concentration of cytochrome-c oxidase in cytosol was seen in LE cells treated with 1 mM UA as a result of mitochondria membrane permeability. The cytochrome-c leakage may trigger the apoptotic pathway. TUNEL assay performed in LE cells treated with 1 mM of UA showed significant incorporation of dNTPs in the nucleus after 24 h. In the presence of the caspase inhibitors, we observed the significant decrease in the activity of caspases-8 and -3 in 0.5 and 1 mM UA-treated LE cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adaikkappan Periyakaruppan
- Environmental Toxicology Program, Department of Chemistry, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX 77004, USA
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27
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Zhu G, Xiang X, Chen X, Wang L, Hu H, Weng S. Renal dysfunction induced by long-term exposure to depleted uranium in rats. Arch Toxicol 2008; 83:37-46. [DOI: 10.1007/s00204-008-0326-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2007] [Accepted: 05/27/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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28
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Parrish RR, Horstwood M, Arnason JG, Chenery S, Brewer T, Lloyd NS, Carpenter DO. Depleted uranium contamination by inhalation exposure and its detection after approximately 20 years: implications for human health assessment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2008; 390:58-68. [PMID: 17976690 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2007.09.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2007] [Revised: 09/20/2007] [Accepted: 09/21/2007] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Inhaled depleted uranium (DU) aerosols are recognised as a distinct human health hazard and DU has been suggested to be responsible in part for illness in both military and civilian populations that may have been exposed. This study aimed to develop and use a testing procedure capable of detecting an individual's historic milligram-quantity aerosol exposure to DU up to 20 years after the event. This method was applied to individuals associated with or living proximal to a DU munitions plant in Colonie New York that were likely to have had a significant DU aerosol inhalation exposure, in order to improve DU-exposure screening reliability and gain insight into the residence time of DU in humans. We show using sensitive mass spectrometric techniques that when exposure to aerosol has been unambiguous and in sufficient quantity, urinary excretion of DU can be detected more than 20 years after primary DU inhalation contamination ceased, even when DU constitutes only approximately 1% of the total excreted uranium. It seems reasonable to conclude that a chronically DU-exposed population exists within the contamination 'footprint' of the munitions plant in Colonie, New York. The method allows even a modest DU exposure to be identified where other less sensitive methods would have failed entirely. This should allow better assessment of historical exposure incidence than currently exists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randall R Parrish
- Department of Geology, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK.
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