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Sahoo AK, Chivukula N, Ramesh K, Singha J, Marigoudar SR, Sharma KV, Samal A. An integrative data-centric approach to derivation and characterization of an adverse outcome pathway network for cadmium-induced toxicity. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 920:170968. [PMID: 38367714 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Cadmium is a prominent toxic heavy metal that contaminates both terrestrial and aquatic environments. Owing to its high biological half-life and low excretion rates, cadmium causes a variety of adverse biological outcomes. Adverse outcome pathway (AOP) networks were envisioned to systematically capture toxicological information to enable risk assessment and chemical regulation. Here, we leveraged AOP-Wiki and integrated heterogeneous data from four other exposome-relevant resources to build the first AOP network relevant for inorganic cadmium-induced toxicity. From AOP-Wiki, we filtered 309 high confidence AOPs, identified 312 key events (KEs) associated with inorganic cadmium from five exposome-relevant databases using a data-centric approach, and thereafter, curated 30 cadmium relevant AOPs (cadmium-AOPs). By constructing the undirected AOP network, we identified a large connected component of 18 cadmium-AOPs. Further, we analyzed the directed network of 59 KEs and 82 key event relationships (KERs) in the largest component using graph-theoretic approaches. Subsequently, we mined published literature using artificial intelligence-based tools to provide auxiliary evidence of cadmium association for all KEs in the largest component. Finally, we performed case studies to verify the rationality of cadmium-induced toxicity in humans and aquatic species. Overall, cadmium-AOP network constructed in this study will aid ongoing research in systems toxicology and chemical exposome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajaya Kumar Sahoo
- The Institute of Mathematical Sciences (IMSc), Chennai, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai, India
| | - Nikhil Chivukula
- The Institute of Mathematical Sciences (IMSc), Chennai, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai, India
| | | | - Jasmine Singha
- National Centre for Coastal Research, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India, Pallikaranai, Chennai, India
| | | | - Krishna Venkatarama Sharma
- National Centre for Coastal Research, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India, Pallikaranai, Chennai, India
| | - Areejit Samal
- The Institute of Mathematical Sciences (IMSc), Chennai, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai, India.
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2
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Green D, Bluhm K, Brinkmann M, Raes K, Lane T, Liber K, Janz DM, Hecker M. Cross-species apical microinjected selenomethionine toxicity in embryo-larval fishes. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169338. [PMID: 38104801 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient that becomes toxic when exposures minimally exceed those that are physiologically required. Studies on Se contaminated aquatic environments have identified that embryo-larval fishes are at particular risk of Se toxicity, primarily due to maternal Se transfer to developing eggs during oogenesis. This study emulated these exposures in embryo-larval fathead minnow (FHM), rainbow trout (RBT), white sucker (WSu), and white sturgeon (WSt) using embryonic selenomethionine (SeMet) microinjections. Adverse Se-outcomes observed across these species included spinal and edematous deformities, total individuals deformed, and reduced survival. Spinal deformity was the most sensitive sublethal endpoint and developed at the lowest concentrations in WSt (10 % effects concentration (EC10) = 12.42 μg (total) Se/g dry weight (d.w.)) followed by WSu (EC10 = 14.49 μg Se/g d.w.) and FHM (EC10 = 18.10 μg Se/g d.w.). High mortality was observed in RBT, but SeMet influences were confounded by the species' innate sensitivity to the microinjections themselves. 5 % hazardous concentrations derived across exposure type data subsets were ∼49 % higher when derived from within-species maternal transfer exclusive data as opposed to all, or within-species microinjection exclusive, data. These results support the current exclusion of SeMet microinjections during regulatory guideline derivation and their inclusion when studying mechanistic Se toxicity across phylogenetically distant fishes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek Green
- Toxicology Graduate Program, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B3, Canada; Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B3, Canada
| | - Kerstin Bluhm
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B3, Canada
| | - Markus Brinkmann
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B3, Canada; School of Environment and Sustainability, University of Saskatchewan, 117 Science Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5C8, Canada
| | - Katherine Raes
- Toxicology Graduate Program, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B3, Canada; Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B3, Canada
| | - Taylor Lane
- Toxicology Graduate Program, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B3, Canada; Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B3, Canada
| | - Karsten Liber
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B3, Canada; School of Environment and Sustainability, University of Saskatchewan, 117 Science Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5C8, Canada
| | - David M Janz
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B3, Canada; Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Markus Hecker
- Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B3, Canada; School of Environment and Sustainability, University of Saskatchewan, 117 Science Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5C8, Canada.
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Miller JT, Clark BW, Reid NM, Karchner SI, Roach JL, Hahn ME, Nacci D, Whitehead A. Independently evolved pollution resistance in four killifish populations is largely explained by few variants of large effect. Evol Appl 2024; 17:e13648. [PMID: 38293268 PMCID: PMC10824703 DOI: 10.1111/eva.13648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The genetic architecture of phenotypic traits can affect the mode and tempo of trait evolution. Human-altered environments can impose strong natural selection, where successful evolutionary adaptation requires swift and large phenotypic shifts. In these scenarios, theory predicts that adaptation is due to a few adaptive variants of large effect, but empirical studies that have revealed the genetic architecture of rapidly evolved phenotypes are rare, especially for populations inhabiting polluted environments. Fundulus killifish have repeatedly evolved adaptive resistance to extreme pollution in urban estuaries. Prior studies, including genome scans for signatures of natural selection, have revealed some of the genes and pathways important for evolved pollution resistance, and provide context for the genotype-phenotype association studies reported here. We created multiple quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping families using progenitors from four different resistant populations, and using RAD-seq genetically mapped variation in sensitivity (developmental perturbations) following embryonic exposure to a model toxicant PCB-126. We found that one to two large-effect QTL loci accounted for resistance to PCB-mediated developmental toxicity. QTLs harbored candidate genes that govern the regulation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) signaling. One QTL locus was shared across all populations and another was shared across three populations. One QTL locus showed strong signatures of recent natural selection in the corresponding wild population but another QTL locus did not. Some candidate genes for PCB resistance inferred from genome scans in wild populations were identified as QTL, but some key candidate genes were not. We conclude that rapidly evolved resistance to the developmental defects normally caused by PCB-126 is governed by few genes of large effect. However, other aspects of resistance beyond developmental phenotypes may be governed by additional loci, such that comprehensive resistance to PCB-126, and to the mixtures of chemicals that distinguish urban estuaries more broadly, may be more genetically complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey T. Miller
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Center for Population Biology, Coastal and Marine Sciences InstituteUniversity of California, DavisDavisCaliforniaUSA
- Present address:
Molecular, Cellular, and Biomedical SciencesUniversity of New HampshireDurhamNew HampshireUSA
| | - Bryan W. Clark
- Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling, Atlantic Coastal Environmental Sciences DivisionUS Environmental Protection AgencyNarragansettRhode IslandUSA
| | - Noah M. Reid
- Department of Molecular & Cell BiologyUniversity of ConnecticutStorrsConnecticutUSA
| | - Sibel I. Karchner
- Biology DepartmentWoods Hole Oceanographic InstitutionWoods HoleMassachusettsUSA
| | - Jennifer L. Roach
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Center for Population Biology, Coastal and Marine Sciences InstituteUniversity of California, DavisDavisCaliforniaUSA
| | - Mark E. Hahn
- Biology DepartmentWoods Hole Oceanographic InstitutionWoods HoleMassachusettsUSA
| | - Diane Nacci
- Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling, Atlantic Coastal Environmental Sciences DivisionUS Environmental Protection AgencyNarragansettRhode IslandUSA
| | - Andrew Whitehead
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Center for Population Biology, Coastal and Marine Sciences InstituteUniversity of California, DavisDavisCaliforniaUSA
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Bhalla D, van Noort V. Molecular Evolution of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Signaling Pathway Genes. J Mol Evol 2023; 91:628-646. [PMID: 37392220 DOI: 10.1007/s00239-023-10124-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
The Aryl hydrocarbon receptor is an ancient transcriptional factor originally discovered as a sensor of dioxin. In addition to its function as a receptor of environmental toxicants, it plays an important role in development. Although a significant amount of research has been carried out to understand the AHR signal transduction pathway and its involvement in species' susceptibility to environmental toxicants, none of them to date has comprehensively studied its evolutionary origins. Studying the evolutionary origins of molecules can inform ancestral relationships of genes. The vertebrate genome has been shaped by two rounds of whole-genome duplications (WGD) at the base of vertebrate evolution approximately 600 million years ago, followed by lineage-specific gene losses, which often complicate the assignment of orthology. It is crucial to understand the evolutionary origins of this transcription factor and its partners, to distinguish orthologs from ancient non-orthologous homologs. In this study, we have investigated the evolutionary origins of proteins involved in the AHR pathway. Our results provide evidence of gene loss and duplications, crucial for understanding the functional connectivity of humans and model species. Multiple studies have shown that 2R-ohnologs (genes and proteins that have survived from the 2R-WGD) are enriched in signaling components relevant to developmental disorders and cancer. Our findings provide a link between the AHR pathway's evolutionary trajectory and its potential mechanistic involvement in pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diksha Bhalla
- Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Vera van Noort
- Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
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5
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Shankar P, Villeneuve DL. AOP Report: Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Activation Leads to Early-Life Stage Mortality via Sox9 Repression-Induced Craniofacial and Cardiac Malformations. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2023; 42:2063-2077. [PMID: 37341548 PMCID: PMC10772968 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5699] [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: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptors (Ahrs) are evolutionarily conserved ligand-dependent transcription factors that are activated by structurally diverse endogenous compounds as well as environmental chemicals such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons. Activation of the Ahr leads to several transcriptional changes that can cause developmental toxicity resulting in mortality. Evidence was assembled and evaluated for two novel adverse outcome pathways (AOPs) which describe how Ahr activation (molecular initiating event) can lead to early-life stage mortality (adverse outcome), via either SOX9-mediated craniofacial malformations (AOP 455) or cardiovascular toxicity (AOP 456). Using a key event relationship (KER)-by-KER approach, we collected evidence using both a narrative search and a systematic review based on detailed search terms. Weight of evidence for each KER was assessed to inform overall confidence of the AOPs. The AOPs link to previous descriptions of Ahr activation and connect them to two novel key events (KEs), increase in slincR expression, a newly characterized long noncoding RNA with regulatory functions, and suppression of SOX9, a critical transcription factor implicated in chondrogenesis and cardiac development. In general, confidence levels for KERs ranged between medium and strong, with few inconsistencies, as well as several opportunities for future research identified. While the majority of KEs have only been demonstrated in zebrafish with 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin as an Ahr activator, evidence suggests that the two AOPs likely apply to most vertebrates and many Ahr-activating chemicals. Addition of the AOPs into the AOP-Wiki (https://aopwiki.org/) helps expand the growing Ahr-related AOP network to 19 individual AOPs, of which six are endorsed or in progress and the remaining 13 relatively underdeveloped. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:2063-2077. © 2023 SETAC. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prarthana Shankar
- Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, US Environmental Protection Agency, Duluth, Minnesota, USA
- University of Wisconsin Madison Sea Grant Fellow at Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, US Environmental Protection Agency, Duluth, Minnesota, USA
| | - Daniel L. Villeneuve
- Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, US Environmental Protection Agency, Duluth, Minnesota, USA
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Xie S, Yang B, Li S, Ge L, Li M, Chen Q, Qing X, Zou J. Generation and application of a novel transgenic zebrafish line Tg(GAcyp1a:eGFP/Luc) as an in vivo assay to sensitive and specific monitoring of DLCs in the environment. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 264:115471. [PMID: 37729807 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115471] [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] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
CYP1A is the most commonly used biomarker and transgenic fish which carrying a cyp1a promoter to drive a reporter gene can be used as reliable way to monitor dioxin/dioxin-like compounds (DLCs) in the environment. Here, we cloned the cyp1a promoter of Gambusia affinis and this promoter showed stronger transcriptional activity than that of zebrafish. Then, a Tg(GAcyp1a:eGFP/Luc) transgenic zebrafish line was first constructed with the G. affinis cyp1a promoter driving eGFP expression using meganuclease I-SceI mediated transgenesis technology. The Tg(GAcyp1a:eGFP/Luc) larvae at 72 h post-fertilization (hpf) were tested by exposing to TCDD for 72 h, and induced GFP was mainly expressed in the liver with low background. The Tg(GAcyp1a:eGFP/Luc) zebrafish showed high sensitivity (limit of detection of 0.322 ng/L TCDD and 0.7 TEQ-ng/L PCDD/Fs) and specificity (insensitive to responses to PAHs and PCBs). In addition, the transgenic line showed a low detection concentration of the DLCs contaminated environmental samples (as low as 1.8 TEQ-ng/L), and the eGFP fluorescence intensity and the chemical-TEQ values were closely correlated. In conclusion, a sensitively and specifically transgenic zebrafish line was established to convenient and effective to detect DLCs in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaolin Xie
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Bing Yang
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-Resources and Ecology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - Siying Li
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China
| | - Liangjun Ge
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China
| | - Min Li
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China
| | - Qingshi Chen
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China
| | - Xian Qing
- South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou 510530, China.
| | - Jixing Zou
- College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
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7
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Marszalek-Grabska M, Gawel K, Kosheva N, Kocki T, Turski WA. Developmental Exposure to Kynurenine Affects Zebrafish and Rat Behavior. Cells 2023; 12:2224. [PMID: 37759447 PMCID: PMC10526278 DOI: 10.3390/cells12182224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Proper nutrition and supplementation during pregnancy and breastfeeding are crucial for the development of offspring. Kynurenine (KYN) is the central metabolite of the kynurenine pathway and a direct precursor of other metabolites that possess immunoprotective or neuroactive properties, with the ultimate effect on fetal neurodevelopment. To date, no studies have evaluated the effects of KYN on early embryonic development. Thus, the aim of our study was to determine the effect of incubation of larvae with KYN in different developmental periods on the behavior of 5-day-old zebrafish. Additionally, the effects exerted by KYN administered on embryonic days 1-7 (ED 1-7) on the behavior of adult offspring of rats were elucidated. Our study revealed that the incubation with KYN induced changes in zebrafish behavior, especially when zebrafish embryos or larvae were incubated with KYN from 1 to 72 h post-fertilization (hpf) and from 49 to 72 hpf. KYN administered early during pregnancy induced subtle differences in the neurobehavioral development of adult offspring. Further research is required to understand the mechanism of these changes. The larval zebrafish model can be useful for studying disturbances in early brain development processes and their late behavioral consequences. The zebrafish-medium system may be applicable in monitoring drug metabolism in zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Marszalek-Grabska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University, Jaczewskiego 8b, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (K.G.); (N.K.); (T.K.); (W.A.T.)
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Rashid CS, Preston JD, Ngo Tenlep SY, Cook MK, Blalock EM, Zhou C, Swanson HI, Pearson KJ. PCB126 exposure during pregnancy alters maternal and fetal gene expression. Reprod Toxicol 2023; 119:108385. [PMID: 37080397 PMCID: PMC10358324 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are organic pollutants that can have lasting impacts on offspring health. Here, we sought to examine maternal and fetal gene expression differences of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR)-regulated genes in a mouse model of prenatal PCB126 exposure. Female mice were bred and gavaged with 1 µmole/kg bodyweight PCB126 or vehicle control on embryonic days 0 and 14, and maternal and fetal tissues were collected on embryonic day 18.5. Total RNAs were isolated, and gene expression levels were analyzed in both maternal and fetal tissues using the NanoString nCounter system. Interestingly, we found that the expression levels of cytochrome P450 (Cyp)1a1 and Cyp1b1 were significantly increased in response to PCB exposure in the tested maternal and fetal tissues. Furthermore, PCB exposure altered the expression of several other genes related to energy balance, oxidative stress, and epigenetic regulation in a manner that was less consistent across tissue types. These results indicate that maternal PCB126 exposure significantly alters gene expression in both developing fetuses and pregnant dams, and such changes vary in intensity and expressivity depending on tissue type. The altered gene expression may provide insights into pathophysiological mechanisms by which in utero PCB exposures contribute to PCB-induced postnatal metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cetewayo S Rashid
- Pharmacology & Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Joshua D Preston
- Nutrition and Health Sciences, Laney Graduate School, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Sara Y Ngo Tenlep
- Pharmacology & Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Marissa K Cook
- Pharmacology & Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Eric M Blalock
- Pharmacology & Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Changcheng Zhou
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, CA 92507, USA
| | - Hollie I Swanson
- Pharmacology & Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Kevin J Pearson
- Pharmacology & Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
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Dasgupta S, LaDu JK, Garcia GR, Li S, Tomono-Duval K, Rericha Y, Huang L, Tanguay RL. A CRISPR-Cas9 mutation in sox9b long intergenic noncoding RNA (slincR) affects zebrafish development, behavior, and regeneration. Toxicol Sci 2023; 194:153-166. [PMID: 37220911 PMCID: PMC10375313 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfad050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulators of toxicological responses to environmental chemicals is gaining prominence. Previously, our laboratory discovered an lncRNA, sox9b long intergenic noncoding RNA (slincR), that is activated by multiple ligands of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). Within this study, we designed a CRISPR-Cas9-mediated slincR zebrafish mutant line to better understand its biological function in presence or absence of a model AHR ligand, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). The slincRosu3 line contains an 18 bp insertion within the slincR sequence that changes its predicted mRNA secondary structure. Toxicological profiling showed that slincRosu3 is equally or more sensitive to TCDD for morphological and behavioral phenotypes. Embryonic mRNA-sequencing showed differential responses of 499 or 908 genes in slincRosu3 in absence or presence of TCDD Specifically, unexposed slincRosu3 embryos showed disruptions in metabolic pathways, suggesting an endogenous role for slincR. slincRosu3 embryos also had repressed mRNA levels of sox9b-a transcription factor that slincR is known to negatively regulate. Hence, we studied cartilage development and regenerative capacity-both processes partially regulated by sox9b. Cartilage development was disrupted in slincRosu3 embryos both in presence and absence of TCDD. slincRosu3 embryos also displayed a lack of regenerative capacity of amputated tail fins, accompanied by a lack of cell proliferation. In summary, using a novel slincR mutant line, we show that a mutation in slincR can have widespread impacts on gene expression and structural development endogenously and limited, but significant impacts in presence of AHR induction that further highlights its importance in the developmental process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subham Dasgupta
- Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA
| | - Jane K LaDu
- Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA
| | - Gloria R Garcia
- Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA
| | - Sizhen Li
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, College of Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Konoha Tomono-Duval
- Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA
| | - Yvonne Rericha
- Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA
| | - Liang Huang
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, College of Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Robyn L Tanguay
- Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333, USA
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10
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Wilson LB, Moran IL, Anderson KA, Tanguay RL. Advances in PAH mixture toxicology enabled by zebrafish. CURRENT OPINION IN TOXICOLOGY 2023; 34:100392. [PMID: 37377741 PMCID: PMC10292781 DOI: 10.1016/j.cotox.2023.100392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a class of organic compounds produced by a variety of petrogenic and pyrogenic sources. PAHs inherently occur in the environment in complex mixtures. The early life-stage zebrafish model is a valuable tool for high-throughput screening (HTS) for toxicity of complex chemical mixtures due to its rapid development, high fecundity, and superb sensitivity to chemical insult. Zebrafish are amenable to exposure to surrogate mixtures as well as extracts of environmental samples and effect-directed analysis. In addition to its utility to HTS, the zebrafish has proven an excellent model for assessing chemical modes of action and identifying molecular initiating and other key events in an Adverse Outcome Pathway framework. Traditional methods of assessing PAH mixture toxicity prioritize carcinogenic potential and lack consideration of non-carcinogenic modes of action, assuming a similar molecular initiating event for all PAHs. Recent work in zebrafish has made it clear that while PAHs belong to the same chemical class, their modes of action can be divergent. Future research should use zebrafish to better classify PAHs by their bioactivity and modes of action to better understand mixture hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay B. Wilson
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331
- Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333
| | - Ian L. Moran
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331
| | - Kim A. Anderson
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331
| | - Robyn L. Tanguay
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331
- Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97333
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11
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Torres-Ruiz M, de Alba González M, Morales M, Martin-Folgar R, González MC, Cañas-Portilla AI, De la Vieja A. Neurotoxicity and endocrine disruption caused by polystyrene nanoparticles in zebrafish embryo. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 874:162406. [PMID: 36841402 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NP) are present in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Humans can be exposed to them through contaminated water, food, air, or personal care products. Mechanisms of NP toxicity are largely unknown and the Zebrafish embryo poses an ideal model to investigate them due to its high homology with humans. Our objective in the present study was to combine a battery of behavioral assays with the study of endocrine related gene expression, to further explore potential NP neurotoxic effects on animal behavior. Polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNP) were used to evaluate NP toxicity. Our neurobehavioral profiles include a tail coiling assay, a light/dark activity assay, two thigmotaxis anxiety assays (auditory and visual stimuli), and a startle response - habituation assay in response to auditory stimuli. Results show PSNP accumulated in eyes, neuromasts, brain, and digestive system organs. PSNP inhibited acetylcholinesterase and altered endocrine-related gene expression profiles both in the thyroid and glucocorticoid axes. At the whole organism level, we observed altered behaviors such as increased activity and anxiety at lower doses and lethargy at a higher dose, which could be due to a variety of complex mechanisms ranging from sensory organ and central nervous system effects to others such as hormonal imbalances. In addition, we present a hypothetical adverse outcome pathway related to these effects. In conclusion, this study provides new understanding into NP toxic effects on zebrafish embryo, emphasizing a critical role of endocrine disruption in observed neurotoxic behavioral effects, and improving our understanding of their potential health risks to human populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Torres-Ruiz
- Environmental Toxicology Unit, Centro Nacional de Sanidad Ambiental (CNSA), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km. 2,2., Majadahonda, Madrid 28220, Spain.
| | - Mercedes de Alba González
- Environmental Toxicology Unit, Centro Nacional de Sanidad Ambiental (CNSA), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km. 2,2., Majadahonda, Madrid 28220, Spain
| | - Mónica Morales
- Grupo de Biología y Toxicología Ambiental, Departamento de Física Matemática y de Fluidos, Facultad de Ciencias, UNED, Urbanización Monte Rozas, Avda. Esparta s/n, Ctra. de Las Rozas al Escorial Km 5, 28232 Las Rozas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Raquel Martin-Folgar
- Grupo de Biología y Toxicología Ambiental, Departamento de Física Matemática y de Fluidos, Facultad de Ciencias, UNED, Urbanización Monte Rozas, Avda. Esparta s/n, Ctra. de Las Rozas al Escorial Km 5, 28232 Las Rozas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mª Carmen González
- Environmental Toxicology Unit, Centro Nacional de Sanidad Ambiental (CNSA), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km. 2,2., Majadahonda, Madrid 28220, Spain
| | - Ana I Cañas-Portilla
- Environmental Toxicology Unit, Centro Nacional de Sanidad Ambiental (CNSA), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km. 2,2., Majadahonda, Madrid 28220, Spain.
| | - Antonio De la Vieja
- Endocrine Tumor Unit, Unidad Funcional de Investigación en Enfermedades Crónicas (UFIEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo Km. 2,2., Majadahonda, Madrid 28220, Spain.
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12
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Miller JT, Clark BW, Reid NM, Karchner SI, Roach JL, Hahn ME, Nacci D, Whitehead A. Independently evolved pollution resistance in four killifish populations is largely explained by few variants of large effect. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.07.536079. [PMID: 37066319 PMCID: PMC10104127 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.07.536079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
The genetic architecture of phenotypic traits can affect the mode and tempo of trait evolution. Human-altered environments can impose strong natural selection, where successful evolutionary adaptation requires swift and large phenotypic shifts. In these scenarios, theory predicts the influence of few adaptive variants of large effect, but empirical studies that have revealed the genetic architecture of rapidly evolved phenotypes are rare, especially for populations inhabiting polluted environments. Fundulus killifish have repeatedly evolved adaptive resistance to extreme pollution in urban estuaries. Prior studies, including genome scans for signatures of natural selection, have revealed some of the genes and pathways important for evolved pollution resistance, and provide context for the genotype-phenotype association studies reported here. We created multiple quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping families using progenitors from four different resistant populations, and genetically mapped variation in sensitivity (developmental perturbations) following embryonic exposure to a model toxicant PCB-126. We found that a few large-effect QTL loci accounted for resistance to PCB-mediated developmental toxicity. QTLs harbored candidate genes that govern the regulation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) signaling, where some (but not all) of these QTL loci were shared across all populations, and some (but not all) of these loci showed signatures of recent natural selection in the corresponding wild population. Some strong candidate genes for PCB resistance inferred from genome scans in wild populations were identified as QTL, but some key candidate genes were not. We conclude that rapidly evolved resistance to the developmental defects normally caused by PCB-126 is governed by few genes of large effect. However, other aspects of resistance beyond developmental phenotypes may be governed by additional loci, such that comprehensive resistance to PCB-126, and to the mixtures of chemicals that distinguish urban estuaries more broadly, may be more genetically complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey T Miller
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Center for Population Biology, Coastal and Marine Sciences Institute, University of California, Davis, CA
| | - Bryan W Clark
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling, Atlantic Coastal Environmental Sciences Division, Narragansett, RI
| | - Noah M Reid
- Department of Molecular & Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT
| | - Sibel I Karchner
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA
| | - Jennifer L Roach
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Center for Population Biology, Coastal and Marine Sciences Institute, University of California, Davis, CA
| | - Mark E Hahn
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA
| | - Diane Nacci
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling, Atlantic Coastal Environmental Sciences Division, Narragansett, RI
| | - Andrew Whitehead
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Center for Population Biology, Coastal and Marine Sciences Institute, University of California, Davis, CA
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13
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Elson DJ, Kolluri SK. Tumor-Suppressive Functions of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) and AhR as a Therapeutic Target in Cancer. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12040526. [PMID: 37106727 PMCID: PMC10135996 DOI: 10.3390/biology12040526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor involved in regulating a wide range of biological responses. A diverse array of xenobiotics and endogenous small molecules bind to the receptor and drive unique phenotypic responses. Due in part to its role in mediating toxic responses to environmental pollutants, AhR activation has not been traditionally viewed as a viable therapeutic approach. Nonetheless, the expression and activation of AhR can inhibit the proliferation, migration, and survival of cancer cells, and many clinically approved drugs transcriptionally activate AhR. Identification of novel select modulators of AhR-regulated transcription that promote tumor suppression is an active area of investigation. The development of AhR-targeted anticancer agents requires a thorough understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving tumor suppression. Here, we summarized the tumor-suppressive mechanisms regulated by AhR with an emphasis on the endogenous functions of the receptor in opposing carcinogenesis. In multiple different cancer models, the deletion of AhR promotes increased tumorigenesis, but a precise understanding of the molecular cues and the genetic targets of AhR involved in this process is lacking. The intent of this review was to synthesize the evidence supporting AhR-dependent tumor suppression and distill insights for development of AhR-targeted cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J. Elson
- Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Siva K. Kolluri
- Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
- Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
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14
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Tanabe P, Schlenk D. Role of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor and Oxidative Stress in the Regioselective Toxicities of Hydroxychrysenes in Embryonic Japanese Medaka (Oryzias latipes). ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2023; 42:698-706. [PMID: 36636887 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Oxygenated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (oxy-PAHs) are environmental contaminants that can be created through oxidation of parent PAHs. Previous studies have found that 2-hydroxychrysene (2-OHCHR) caused anemia in embryonic Japanese medaka whereas 6-hydroxychrysene (6-OHCHR) did not, an example of regioselective toxicity. Anemia was prevented by cytochrome P450 (CYP) inhibition, which reduced the formation of the potential oxidatively active metabolite, 1,2-catechol, from 2-OHCHR. 2-OHCHR has also been found to be a four-fold more potent aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonist compared with 6-OHCHR. These findings led us to hypothesize that AhR activation and/or oxidative stress play an important role in 2-OHCHR toxicity. Although treatments with the AhR agonists polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)126 and 2-methoxychrysene (2-MeOCHR) did not cause significant toxicity, pretreatments with the AhR antagonist, CH-223191, reduced anemia by 97.2 ± 0.84% and mortality by 96.6 ± 0.69%. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor inhibition by the antagonist was confirmed by significant reductions (91.0 ± 9.94%) in induced ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase activity. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances concentrations were 32.9 ± 3.56% higher (p < 0.05) in 2-OHCHR treatments at 100 hours postfertilization compared with controls. Staining 2-OHCHR-treated embryos with the reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger 2',7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate revealed 32.6 ± 2.69% of 2-OHCHR-treated embryos exhibiting high concentrations of ROS in caudal tissues, which is a site for embryonic hematopoiesis in medaka. Pretreatment with antioxidants, N-acetylcysteine (NAC) or vitamin E (Vit E) significantly reduced 2-OHCHR-induced anemia (NAC: 80.7 ± 1.12% and Vit E: 99.1 ± 0.43%) and mortality (NAC: 67.1 ± 1.69% and Vit E: 98.9 ± 0.66%). These results indicate that AhR may mediate 2-OHCHR toxicity through canonical signaling by up-regulating CYP1, enhancing the formation of reactive metabolites of 2-OHCHR that generate ROS within caudal hematopoietic tissues, potentially disrupting hematopoiesis, leading to anemia and subsequent mortality. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:698-706. © 2023 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Tanabe
- Environmental Toxicology Graduate Program, University of California, Riverside, California, USA
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of California, Riverside, California, USA
| | - Daniel Schlenk
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of California, Riverside, California, USA
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15
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Bérubé R, Garnier C, Lefebvre-Raine M, Gauthier C, Bergeron N, Triffault-Bouchet G, Langlois VS, Couture P. Early developmental toxicity of Atlantic salmon exposed to conventional and unconventional oils. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 250:114487. [PMID: 36587413 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.114487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Atlantic salmon is an important species for Canadian culture and economy and its importance extends beyond Canada to Scandinavia and Western Europe. However, it is a vulnerable species facing decline due to habitat contamination and destruction. Existing and new Canadian pipeline projects pose a threat to salmonid habitat. The effects of diluted bitumen (dilbit), the main oil circulating in pipelines, are less studied than those of conventional oils, especially during the critical early embryonic developmental stage occurring in freshwater ecosystems. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the effects of water-accommodated fractions (WAF) of the Clearwater McMurray dilbit and the Lloydminster Heavy conventional oil on Atlantic salmon embryos exposed either from fertilization or from eyed stage. The dilbit contained the highest concentrations of low molecular weight (LMW) compounds (including BTEX and C6-C10), while the conventional oil contained the highest concentrations of PAHs. The Clearwater dilbit caused a higher percentage of mortality and malformations than the conventional oil at similar WAF concentrations. In addition, the embryos exposed from fertilization suffered a higher mortality rate, more developmental delays, and malformations than embryos exposed from the eyed stage, suggesting that early development is the most sensitive developmental stage to oil exposure. Gene expression and enzymatic activity of the detoxification phase I and II enzymes (CYP1A and GST) were measured. Data showed increases in both cyp1a expression and GST activity with increasing WAF concentrations, while gst expression was not affected by the exposures. Also, gene expression of proteins involved in the biotransformation of vitamin A and DNA damage repair were modified by the oil exposures. Overall, this study indicates that Atlantic salmon is mostly affected by oil exposure at the beginning of its development, during which embryos accumulate deformities that may impact their survival at later life stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxanne Bérubé
- Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Centre Eau Terre Environnement, 490 rue de la Couronne, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Camille Garnier
- Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Centre Eau Terre Environnement, 490 rue de la Couronne, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Molly Lefebvre-Raine
- Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Centre Eau Terre Environnement, 490 rue de la Couronne, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Charles Gauthier
- Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Centre Eau Terre Environnement, 490 rue de la Couronne, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Normand Bergeron
- Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Centre Eau Terre Environnement, 490 rue de la Couronne, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Gaëlle Triffault-Bouchet
- CEAEQ, Ministère de l'Environnement et de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, 2700 rue Einstein, Québec, Canada
| | - Valérie S Langlois
- Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Centre Eau Terre Environnement, 490 rue de la Couronne, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Patrice Couture
- Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), Centre Eau Terre Environnement, 490 rue de la Couronne, Québec, QC, Canada.
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16
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Development and Applications of a Zebrafish (Danio rerio) CYP1A-Targeted Monoclonal Antibody (CRC4) with Reactivity across Vertebrate Taxa: Evidence for a Conserved CYP1A Epitope. TOXICS 2022; 10:toxics10070404. [PMID: 35878309 PMCID: PMC9320060 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10070404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
CYP1A is a heme-thiolate enzyme associated with the cytochrome P4501A1 monooxygenase system and is inducible by a wide variety of xenobiotics and endogenous ligands that bind and activate the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). The AHR-CYP1A axis is important for detoxification of certain xenobiotics and for homeostatic balance of endogenous sex hormones, amine hormones, vitamins, fatty acids, and phospholipids. Herein, we generated and described applications of a zebrafish CYP1A-targeted monoclonal antibody (mAb CRC4) that fortuitously recognizes induced CYP1A across vertebrate taxa, including fish, chicken, mouse, rat, and human. We then demonstrated that mAb CRC4 targets a highly conserved epitope signature of vertebrate CYP1A. The unique complimentary determining region (CDR) sequences of heavy and light chains were determined, and these Ig sequences will allow for the expression of recombinant mAb CRC4, thus superseding the need for long-term hybridoma maintenance. This antibody works well for immunohistochemistry (IHC), as well as whole-mounted IHC in zebrafish embryos. Monoclonal antibody CRC4 may be particularly useful for studying the AHR-CYP1A axis in multiple vertebrate species and within the context of Oceans and Human Health research. By using archived samples, when possible, we actively promoted efforts to reduce, replace, and refine studies involving live animals.
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17
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Shankar P, Garcia GR, LaDu JK, Sullivan CM, Dunham CL, Goodale BC, Waters KM, Stanisheuski S, Maier CS, Thunga P, Reif DM, Tanguay RL. The Ahr2-Dependent wfikkn1 Gene Influences Zebrafish Transcriptome, Proteome, and Behavior. Toxicol Sci 2022; 187:325-344. [PMID: 35377459 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfac037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is required for vertebrate development and is also activated by exogenous chemicals, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and TCDD. AHR activation is well-understood, but roles of downstream molecular signaling events are largely unknown. From previous transcriptomics in 48-hours post fertilization (hpf) zebrafish exposed to several PAHs and TCDD, we found wfikkn1 was highly co-expressed with cyp1a (marker for AHR activation). Thus, we hypothesized wfikkn1's role in AHR signaling, and showed that wfikkn1 expression was Ahr2 (zebrafish ortholog of human AHR)-dependent in developing zebrafish exposed to TCDD. To functionally characterize wfikkn1, we made a CRISPR-Cas9 mutant line with a 16-bp deletion in wfikkn1's exon, and exposed wildtype and mutants to DMSO or TCDD. 48-hpf mRNA sequencing revealed over 700 genes that were differentially expressed (p < 0.05, log2FC > 1) between each pair of treatment combinations, suggesting an important role for wfikkn1 in altering both the 48-hpf transcriptome and TCDD-induced expression changes. Mass spectrometry-based proteomics of 48-hpf wildtype and mutants revealed 325 significant differentially expressed proteins. Functional enrichment demonstrated wfikkn1 was involved in skeletal muscle development and played a role in neurological pathways after TCDD exposure. Mutant zebrafish appeared morphologically normal but had significant behavior deficiencies at all life stages, and absence of Wfikkn1 did not significantly alter TCDD-induced behavior effects at all life stages. In conclusion, wfikkn1 did not appear to be significantly involved in TCDD's overt toxicity but is likely a necessary functional member of the AHR signaling cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prarthana Shankar
- The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA OR 97331
| | - Gloria R Garcia
- The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA OR 97331
| | - Jane K LaDu
- The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA OR 97331
| | - Christopher M Sullivan
- The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA OR 97331
| | - Cheryl L Dunham
- The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA OR 97331
| | - Britton C Goodale
- Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756 USA
| | - Katrina M Waters
- The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA OR 97331.,Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest Laboratory, 902 Battelle Boulevard, Richland, P.O. Box 999, USA WA 99352
| | | | - Claudia S Maier
- Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97330, USA
| | - Preethi Thunga
- Bioinformatics Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - David M Reif
- Bioinformatics Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Robyn L Tanguay
- The Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA OR 97331
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18
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Karim N, Lin LW, Van Eenennaam JP, Fangue NA, Schreier AD, Phillips MA, Rice RH. Epidermal cell cultures from white and green sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus and medirostris): Expression of TGM1-like transglutaminases and CYP4501A. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0265218. [PMID: 35294467 PMCID: PMC8926185 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Using a system optimized for propagating human keratinocytes, culture of skin samples from white and green sturgeons generated epithelial cells capable of making cross-linked protein envelopes. Two distinct forms of TGM1-like mRNA were molecularly cloned from the cells of white sturgeon and detected in green sturgeon cells, accounting for their cellular envelope forming ability. The protein translated from each displayed a cluster of cysteine residues resembling the membrane anchorage region expressed in epidermal cells of teleosts and tetrapods. One of the two mRNA forms (called A) was present at considerably higher levels than the other (called B) in both species. Continuous lines of white sturgeon epidermal cells were established and characterized. Size measurements indicated that a substantial fraction of the cells became enlarged, appearing similar to squames in human epidermal keratinocyte cultures. The cultures also expressed CYP1A, a cytochrome P450 enzyme inducible by activation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor 2 in fish. The cells gradually improved in growth rate over a dozen passages while retaining envelope forming ability, TGM1 expression and CYP1A inducibility. These cell lines are thus potential models for studying evolution of fish epidermis leading to terrestrial adaptation and for testing sturgeon sensitivity to environmental stresses such as pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noreen Karim
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Lo-Wei Lin
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Joel P. Van Eenennaam
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Nann A. Fangue
- Department of Wildlife, Fish and Conservation Biology, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Andrea D. Schreier
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Marjorie A. Phillips
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Robert H. Rice
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
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19
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Wang Y, Yu Z, Fan Z, Fang Y, He L, Peng M, Chen Y, Hu Z, Zhao K, Zhang H, Liu C. Cardiac developmental toxicity and transcriptome analyses of zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos exposed to Mancozeb. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2021; 226:112798. [PMID: 34592528 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2021.112798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Mancozeb (MZ), an antibacterial pesticide, has been linked to reproductive toxicity, neurotoxicity, and endocrine disruption. However, whether MZ has cardiactoxicity is unclear. In this study, the cardiotoxic effects of exposure to environment-related MZ concentrations ranging from 1.88 μM to 7.52 μM were evaluated at the larval stage of zebrafish. Transcriptome sequencing predicted the mechanism of MZ-induced cardiac developmental toxicity in zebrafish by enrichment analysis of Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO). Consistent with morphological changes, the osm, pfkfb3, foxh1, stc1, and nrarpb genes may effect normal development of zebrafish heart by activating NOTCH signaling pathways, resulting in pericardial edema, myocardial fibrosis, and congestion in the heart area. Moreover, differential gene expression analysis indicated that cyp-related genes (cyp1c2 and cyp3c3) were significantly upregulated after MZ treatment, which may be related to apoptosis of myocardial cells. These results were verified by real-time quantitative RT-qPCR and acridine orange staining. Our findings suggest that MZ-mediated cardiotoxic development of zebrafish larvae may be related to the activation of Notch and apoptosis-related signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongfeng Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China.
| | - Zhiquan Yu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China.
| | - Zunpan Fan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China.
| | - Yiwei Fang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China.
| | - Liting He
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China.
| | - Meili Peng
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China.
| | - Yuanyao Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China.
| | - Zhiyong Hu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China.
| | - Kai Zhao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China.
| | - Huiping Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China.
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei 430030, PR China.
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20
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Disner GR, Lopes-Ferreira M, Lima C. Where the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Meets the microRNAs: Literature Review of the Last 10 Years. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:725044. [PMID: 34746229 PMCID: PMC8566438 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.725044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is an environmentally responsive ligand-activated transcription factor, identified in the ‘70s for its toxic responses to halogenated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, such as dioxin. Recently, AhR has been recognized as engaged in multiple physiological processes in health and diseases, particularly in the immune system, inflammatory response, tumorigenesis, and cellular differentiation by epigenetic mechanisms involving miRNAs. However, there is still scarce information about AhR-dependent miRNA regulation and miRNA-mediated epigenetic control in pathologies and therapies. In this review, we explore the mutual regulation of AhR and miRNA over the last decade of studies since many miRNAs have dioxin response elements (DRE) in their 3’ UTR, as well as AhR might contain binding sites of miRNAs. TCDD is the most used ligand to investigate the impact of AhR activation, and the immune system is one of the most sensitive of its targets. An association between TCDD-activated AhR and epigenetic mechanisms like post-transcriptional regulation by miRNAs, DNA methylation, or histone modification has already been confirmed. Besides, several studies have shown that AhR-induced miR-212/132 cluster suppresses cancers, attenuates autoimmune diseases, and has an anti-inflammatory role in different immune responses by regulating cytokine levels and immune cells. Together the ever-expanding new AhR roles and the miRNA therapeutics are a prominent segment among biopharmaceuticals. Additionally, AhR-activated miRNAs can serve as valuable biomarkers of diseases, notably cancer progression or suppression and chemical exposure. Once AhR-dependent gene expression may hinge on the ligand, cell type, and context singularity, the reviewed outcomes might help contextualize state of the art and support new trends and emerging opportunities in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geonildo Rodrigo Disner
- Immunoregulation Unit of the Laboratory of Applied Toxinology (CeTICS/FAPESP), Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Monica Lopes-Ferreira
- Immunoregulation Unit of the Laboratory of Applied Toxinology (CeTICS/FAPESP), Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carla Lima
- Immunoregulation Unit of the Laboratory of Applied Toxinology (CeTICS/FAPESP), Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
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21
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Shankar P, McClure RS, Waters KM, Tanguay RL. Gene co-expression network analysis in zebrafish reveals chemical class specific modules. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:658. [PMID: 34517816 PMCID: PMC8438978 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-07940-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zebrafish is a popular animal model used for high-throughput screening of chemical hazards, however, investigations of transcriptomic mechanisms of toxicity are still needed. Here, our goal was to identify genes and biological pathways that Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor 2 (AHR2) Activators and flame retardant chemicals (FRCs) alter in developing zebrafish. Taking advantage of a compendium of phenotypically-anchored RNA sequencing data collected from 48-h post fertilization (hpf) zebrafish, we inferred a co-expression network that grouped genes based on their transcriptional response. RESULTS Genes responding to the FRCs and AHR2 Activators localized to distinct regions of the network, with FRCs inducing a broader response related to neurobehavior. AHR2 Activators centered in one region related to chemical stress responses. We also discovered several highly co-expressed genes in this module, including cyp1a, and we subsequently show that these genes are definitively within the AHR2 signaling pathway. Systematic removal of the two chemical types from the data, and analysis of network changes identified neurogenesis associated with FRCs, and regulation of vascular development associated with both chemical classes. We also identified highly connected genes responding specifically to each class that are potential biomarkers of exposure. CONCLUSIONS Overall, we created the first zebrafish chemical-specific gene co-expression network illuminating how chemicals alter the transcriptome relative to each other. In addition to our conclusions regarding FRCs and AHR2 Activators, our network can be leveraged by other studies investigating chemical mechanisms of toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prarthana Shankar
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, 28645 East Highway 34, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Ryan S McClure
- Biological Sciences Division, Pacific National Northwest Laboratory, 902 Battelle Boulevard, P.O. Box 999, Richland, WA, 99352, USA
| | - Katrina M Waters
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, 28645 East Highway 34, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA.,Biological Sciences Division, Pacific National Northwest Laboratory, 902 Battelle Boulevard, P.O. Box 999, Richland, WA, 99352, USA
| | - Robyn L Tanguay
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, 28645 East Highway 34, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA.
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Segner H, Bailey C, Tafalla C, Bo J. Immunotoxicity of Xenobiotics in Fish: A Role for the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR)? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179460. [PMID: 34502366 PMCID: PMC8430475 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The impact of anthropogenic contaminants on the immune system of fishes is an issue of growing concern. An important xenobiotic receptor that mediates effects of chemicals, such as halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons (HAHs) and polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), is the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). Fish toxicological research has focused on the role of this receptor in xenobiotic biotransformation as well as in causing developmental, cardiac, and reproductive toxicity. However, biomedical research has unraveled an important physiological role of the AhR in the immune system, what suggests that this receptor could be involved in immunotoxic effects of environmental contaminants. The aims of the present review are to critically discuss the available knowledge on (i) the expression and possible function of the AhR in the immune systems of teleost fishes; and (ii) the impact of AhR-activating xenobiotics on the immune systems of fish at the levels of immune gene expression, immune cell proliferation and immune cell function, immune pathology, and resistance to infectious disease. The existing information indicates that the AhR is expressed in the fish immune system, but currently, we have little understanding of its physiological role. Exposure to AhR-activating contaminants results in the modulation of numerous immune structural and functional parameters of fish. Despite the diversity of fish species studied and the experimental conditions investigated, the published findings rather uniformly point to immunosuppressive actions of xenobiotic AhR ligands in fish. These effects are often associated with increased disease susceptibility. The fact that fish populations from HAH- and PAH-contaminated environments suffer immune disturbances and elevated disease susceptibility highlights that the immunotoxic effects of AhR-activating xenobiotics bear environmental relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helmut Segner
- Centre for Fish and Wildlife Health, Department of Pathobiology and Infectious Diseases, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Jun Bo
- Laboratory of Marine Biology and Ecology, Third Institute of Oceanography, Xiamen 361005, China
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Garland MA, Reynolds K, Zhou CJ. Environmental mechanisms of orofacial clefts. Birth Defects Res 2020; 112:1660-1698. [PMID: 33125192 PMCID: PMC7902093 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Orofacial clefts (OFCs) are among the most common birth defects and impart a significant burden on afflicted individuals and their families. It is increasingly understood that many nonsyndromic OFCs are a consequence of extrinsic factors, genetic susceptibilities, and interactions of the two. Therefore, understanding the environmental mechanisms of OFCs is important in the prevention of future cases. This review examines the molecular mechanisms associated with environmental factors that either protect against or increase the risk of OFCs. We focus on essential metabolic pathways, environmental signaling mechanisms, detoxification pathways, behavioral risk factors, and biological hazards that may disrupt orofacial development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A. Garland
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine of Shriners Hospitals for Children, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817
| | - Kurt Reynolds
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine of Shriners Hospitals for Children, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817
- Biochemistry, Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (BMCDB) graduate group, University of California, Davis, CA 95616
| | - Chengji J. Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine of Shriners Hospitals for Children, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817
- Biochemistry, Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (BMCDB) graduate group, University of California, Davis, CA 95616
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