Neurobehavioral toxicity of cypermethrin in association with oxidative, inflammatory and neurotrophic changes in the hippocampus of rats

Pyrethroid pesticides can induce neurotoxicity in target and non-target organisms. We examined the effects of sub-chronic exposure to cypermethrin on anxiety-like behaviors, memory function and molecular changes in the hippocampus of rats. Twenty-four male Wistar rats (weighing 200-250 g) were randomly divided into three groups (n = 8) and received orally corn oil, cypermethrin 2 and cypermethrin 4 mg/kg/day, for 30 days. The elevated plus maze (EPM), open field maze (OFM) and novel object recognition memory (NORM) tests were conducted. At the end, brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), glycogen synthase kinase-3 β (GSK-3β), cholinesterase activity, oxidative stress markers and inflammatory mediators were evaluated in the hippocampus. The results of OFM and EPM indicated higher level of anxiety and motor activity alterations in the cypermethrin treated rats. NORM test revealed impairment of cognitive memory and decreased discrimination ratio in cypermethrin treated rats. Cypermethrin decreased BDNF and increased GSK-3β, oxidative stress and mRNA expression of IL-1β and TNF-α and NF-κB in the hippocampus. The activity of cholinesterase enzyme was not changed. Cypermethrin can impair learning and memory along with provoking oxidative stress and inflammation, and dysregulation of BDNF and GSK-3β pathway may be involved in neurocognitive and neurobehavioral disorders due to long-time exposures.

Involvement of gut microbiota in chlorpyrifos-induced subchronic toxicity in mice

Chlorpyrifos (CPF) is one of the most widely used organophosphorus pesticides all over the world. Unfortunately, long-term exposure to CPF may cause considerable toxicity to organisms. Some evidence suggests that the intestinal microbial community may be involved in regulating the toxicity of CPF. In this study, we explored if the intestinal microbial community is involved in regulating the toxicity of CPF. Adult mice were continuously exposed to CPF (4 mg/kg body weight /day) for 10 weeks with or without a 2-week pretreatment of antibiotics to change the ecological structure of intestinal microorganisms in advance. Pathological changes in the liver and kidneys were examined and the biochemical parameters in serum for liver and kidney functions were detected, and changes in the intestinal microbial community of the mice were measured. The results showed that subchronic exposure to low-dose CPF caused an ecological imbalance in the intestinal flora and caused pathological damage to the liver and kidneys. Serum biochemical indicators for liver function such as alanine aminotransferase and total bile acids contents and renal biochemical indicators such as urea nitrogen and creatinine were disrupted. Changes in intestinal microbial community structure by using antibiotics in advance can effectively alleviate the pathological and functional damage to the liver and kidneys caused by CPF exposure. Further analysis showed that intestinal microorganisms such as Saccharibacteria (TM7), Odoribacter, Enterococcus and AF12 genera may be involved in managing the toxicity of CPF. Together, our results indicated that long-term low-dose CPF exposure could induce hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity, and liver and kidney damage may be mitigated by altering the ecology of intestinal microorganisms.

A randomized, clinical trial of intravenous N-acetylcysteine as an antioxidant therapy in acute organophosphorus pesticide poisoning

The incidence of acute organophosphate (OP) poisoning has steadily increased in developing countries. Many studies showed that oxidative stress could have a significant role in its mechanism. The current study aimed to evaluate the role of N acetylcysteine (NAC) as an antioxidant in acute OP poisoned. A randomized, controlled, parallel-group trial was conducted in the period from the beginning of January 2022 to the end of June 2022. The study included 56 acute OP poisoned patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) at the Poison Control Center of Ain Shams University Hospitals within 6 h after the exposure. The patients were randomly allocated in two equal groups; group (A): received the standard treatment plus NAC in a total dose of 300 mg/kg administered intravenously (IV) while group (B) received the standard treatment. Then both groups were compared as regards clinical parameters, laboratory investigations, ECG, and outcomes. Baseline parameters were comparable between the groups. However, NAC treatment significantly elevated concentrations of both serum catalase and glutathione peroxidase levels at 24 h, it did not significantly affect the total dose of atropine required, duration of atropine and oximes treatment or need for mechanical ventilation, and length of hospital stay. Mortality was lower in the NAC group (2 out of 28) than the standard treatment-only group (5 out of 28) but the difference was not statistically significant. This trial found that NAC improved antioxidant enzyme levels including serum CAT and GPX but did not affect clinically relevant outcomes.

Chlorpyrifos induces cytotoxicity via oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in HepG2 cells

Chlorpyrifos (CPF), a widely used broad-spectrum organophosphate pesticide, has been associated with various adverse health effects in animals and humans. While its primary mechanism of action involves the irreversible inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, secondary mechanisms have also been suggested. The aim of the present study was to explore the secondary mechanisms of action involved in CPF-induced acute cytotoxicity using human hepatocarcinoma HepG2 cells. In particular, we investigated oxidative stress and mitochondrial function by assessing reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, lipid peroxidation (LPO) and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) alteration. Results showed that 24-h exposure to CPF (78.125-2500 μM) decreased cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner (IC50 = 280.87 ± 26.63 μM). Sub-toxic CPF concentrations (17.5, 35 and 70 μM) induced increases in ROS generation (by 83%), mitochondrial superoxide (by 7.1%), LPO (by 11%), and decreased ΔΨm (by 20%). CPF also upregulated Nrf2 protein expression, indicating the role of the latter in modulating the cellular response to oxidative insults. Overall, our findings suggest that CPF caused hepatotoxicity through oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Given the re-emerging use of CPF, this study emphasizes the need for comprehensive analysis to elucidate its toxicity on non-target organs and associated mechanisms.

The Effect of Trientine on AlCl3-Induced Cognitive Dysfunction and Biochemical Changes in the Hippocampus of Rats

Cognitive impairments affect millions of people worldwide with an increasing prevalence. Research on their etiology and treatment is developing, nevertheless significant gaps remain. Trientine (TETA), as a copper chelator, has been shown to have beneficial effects in different human chronic diseases such as diabetic cardiomyopathy and neuropathy. Here, we examined the impact of TETA on AlCl3-induced neurocognitive dysfunctions and molecular changes in the hippocampus of rats.Thirty-six male Wistar rats (weighing 200-250 g) were randomly divided into four groups including control, TETA (100 mg/kg/day), AlCl3 (100 mg/kg/day), and AlCl3 (100 mg/kg/day)+TETA (100 mg/kg/day), and received chemicals by gavage for 30 days. At the end of the treatment, the open field maze, elevated plus maze, novel object recognition memory test, and shuttle box test were done. Then after, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), glycogen synthase kinase-3 β (GSK-3β), acetylcholinesterase activity, oxidative stress markers, and inflammatory mediators were measured in the hippocampus.AlCl3 increased anxiety-like behaviors and impaired recognition and short-term memory. TETA was able to improve AlCl3-induced anxiety-like behaviors and short-term memory dysfunction. In the AlCl3-treated group, there was a significant increase in GSK-3β, oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory and pro-apoptotic markers, and decreased BDNF in the hippocampus. Co-administration of TETA was able to decrease lipid peroxidation, inflammation, GSK-3β, and acetylcholinesterase activity, and increase BDNF in the hippocampus compared with AlCl3-treated rats.It can be concluded that TETA was able to improve neurobehavioral and neurocognitive functions by alleviating oxidative stress, inflammation, and pro-apoptotic pathways leading to the normalization of BDNF and GSK-3β.

The susceptibility of humans to neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental toxicities caused by organophosphorus pesticides

The toxicology field is concerned with the impact of organophosphorus (OP) compounds on human health. These compounds have been linked to an increased risk of neurological disorders, including neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental diseases. This article aims to review studies on the role of OP compounds in developing these neurological disorders and explore how genetic variations can affect susceptibility to the neurotoxicity of these pesticides. Studies have shown that exposure to OP compounds can lead to the development of various neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, intellectual disability, and other developmental neurotoxicities. Apart from inhibiting the cholinesterase enzyme, OP compounds are believed to cause other pathological mechanisms at both the extracellular level (cholinergic, serotonergic, dopaminergic, glutamatergic, and GABAergic synapses) and the intracellular level (oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, autophagy, and apoptosis) that contribute to these disorders. Specific genetic polymorphisms, including PON1, ABCB1, NOS, DRD4, GST, CYP, and APOE, have increased the risk of developing OP-related neurological disorders.

Pesticides and insulin resistance-related metabolic diseases: Evidences and mechanisms

The use of pesticides in the past century has lot helped humankind in improving crops' field and general hygiene level. Nevertheless, there has been countless evidences on the toxic effects of pesticides on the living systems. The link of exposure to pesticides with different human chronic diseases in the context of carcinogenicity, neurotoxicity, developmental toxicity, etc., have been evaluated in various types of studies. There are also some evidences on the link of exposure to pesticides with higher incidence of metabolic diseases associated with insulin resistance like diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, polycystic ovary syndrome and chronic kidney diseases. Physiologically, weakening intracellular insulin signaling is considered as a compensatory mechanism for cells to cope with cellular stresses like xenobiotic effects, oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, but it can pathologically lead to a defective cycle with lowered sensitivity of the cells to insulin which happens in metabolic disorders. In this work, the data related to metabolic toxicity of pesticides categorized in the mentioned metabolic diseases with a focus on the effects of pesticides on insulin signaling pathway and the mechanisms of development of insulin resistance will be systematically reviewed and presented.

Lycopene attenuates chlorpyrifos-induced hepatotoxicity in rats via activation of Nrf2/HO-1 axis

Chlorpyrifos (CPF), is an organophosphate pesticide that is widely used for agricultural purposes. However, it has well-documented hepatotoxicity. Lycopene (LCP) is a plant-derived carotenoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The present work was designed to evaluate the potential hepatoprotective actions of LCP against CPF-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Animals were assigned into five groups namely: Group I (Control), Group II (LCP), Group III (CPF), Group IV (CPF + LCP 5 mg/kg), and Group V (CPF + LCP 10 mg/kg). LCP offered protection as evidenced by inhibiting the rise in serum activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) induced by CPF. This was confirmed histologically as LCP-treated animals showed liver tissues with less proliferation of bile ducts and periductal fibrosis. LCP significantly prevented the rise in hepatic content of malondialdehyde (MDA), depletion of reduced glutathione (GSH), and exhaustion of glutathione-s-transferase (GST) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Further, LCP significantly prevented hepatocyte death as it ameliorated the increase in Bax and the decrease in Bcl-2 expression induced by CPF in liver tissues as determined immunohistochemically. The observed protective effects of LCP were further confirmed by a significant enhancement in heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) expression. In conclusion, LCP possesses protective effects against CPF-induced hepatotoxicity. These include antioxidation and activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 axis.

The diabetogenic effects of pesticides: Evidence based on epidemiological and toxicological studies

While the use of pesticides has improved grain productivity and controlled vector-borne diseases, the widespread use of pesticides has resulted in ubiquitous environmental residues that pose health risks to humans. A number of studies have linked pesticide exposure to diabetes and glucose dyshomeostasis. This article reviews the occurrence of pesticides in the environment and human exposure, the associations between pesticide exposures and diabetes based on epidemiological investigations, as well as the diabetogenic effects of pesticides based on the data from in vivo and in vitro studies. The potential mechanisms by which pesticides disrupt glucose homeostasis include induction of lipotoxicity, oxidative stress, inflammation, acetylcholine accumulation, and gut microbiota dysbiosis. The gaps between laboratory toxicology research and epidemiological studies lead to an urgent research need on the diabetogenic effects of herbicides and current-use insecticides, low-dose pesticide exposure research, the diabetogenic effects of pesticides in children, and assessment of toxicity and risks of combined exposure to multiple pesticides with other chemicals.

Carvacrol protects against λ-Cyhalothrin-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity by modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and autophagy

λ-Cyhalothrin, a type II synthetic pyrethroid, has been widely used in households, agriculture, public health, and gardening to control insect pests. Despite its widespread usage, it is known to induce a variety of adverse effects, including hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. The goal of this study was to investigate the protective effect of carvacrol, which has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and some other properties, on λ-Cyhalothrin-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity 35 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups for this purpose: I-Control group: II-CRV group (50 mg/kg carvacrol), III-LCT group (6.23 mg/kg LCT), IV-LCT + CRV 25 group (6.23 mg/kg LCT + 25 mg/kg carvacrol), and V-LCT + CRV 50 group (6.23 mg/kg LCT + 50 mg/kg carvacrol). Using biochemical, real-time PCR, and western blotting methods, the collected tissues were analyzed. While λ-Cyhalothrin treatment increased MDA levels, which are indicated of lipid peroxidation, but reduced SOD, CAT, GPx activities, and GSH levels. After receiving carvacrol therapy, the degree of oxidative stress reduced as the values of these parameters approached those of the control group. Increased inflammation, apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and autophagy with λ-Cyhalothrin administration reduced with carvacrol co-administration, and liver and kidney tissues were protected from damage, depending on the degree of oxidative stress. After considering all of these data, it was discovered that λ-Cyhalothrin-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and autophagy in the liver and kidneys; however, carvacrol protected the tissues from damage. Our findings indicate that carvacrol may be a promising protective agent in λ-Cyhalothrin-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity.

Molecular and biochemical investigation of the protective effects of rutin against liver and kidney toxicity caused by malathion administration in a rat model

Widely used malathion (MLT) causes environmental pollution, leading to toxicity in many living things, including humans. Rutin (RUT) is a flavonoid with various biological properties. In the present study, the protective effects of rutin against liver and kidney toxicity caused by malathion were investigated. In the study, MLT (100 mg/kg) and RUT (50 or 100 mg/kg) were administered to rats alone or in combination for 28 days. Then, oxidative stress, inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS), apoptosis, and autophagy markers in liver and kidney tissues were analyzed by biochemical and molecular methods. The results showed that MLT caused oxidative stress in both tissues, while RUT showed antioxidant properties and protected these tissues from oxidative damage. Moreover, MLT upregulated the expressions of ATF-6, PERK, IRE1, GRP78, and CHOP, leading to ERS. However, RUT alleviated ER stress and suppressed these markers. The study also found that MLT increased inflammatory, apoptotic, and autophagic markers. All these factors affected liver and kidney functions and caused an increase in plasma ALT, AST, urea, and creatinine levels. On the other hand, it has been observed that RUT may protect liver and kidney tissues from the destructive effect of MLT by showing anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and anti-autophagic properties. Thus, it was determined that ALT, AST, urea, and creatinine levels decreased after RUT treatment. As a result, it was observed that MLT had a toxic effect on the liver and kidney tissues of rats, and it was determined that this toxicity could be alleviated by RUT treatment.

Preconception exposure to malathion and glucose homeostasis in rats: Effects on dams during pregnancy and post-term periods, and on their progeny

Understanding the individual and global impact of pesticides on human physiology and the different stages of life is still a challenge in environmental health. We analyzed here whether administration of the organophosphate insecticide malathion before pregnancy could affect glucose homeostasis during pregnancy and, in addition, generate possible later consequences in mothers and offspring. For this, adult Wistar rats were allocated into two groups and were treated daily (intragastric) with malathion (14 or 140 mg/kg, body mass (bm)) for 21-25 days. Corn oil was used as vehicle in the Control group. Subgroups were defined based on the absence (nulliparous) or presence (pregnant) of a copulatory plug. Pregnant rats were followed by an additional period of 2 months after the term (post-term), without continuing malathion treatment. Fetuses and adult offspring of males and females were also evaluated. We ran an additional experimental design with rats exposed to malathion before pregnancy at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg bm. Malathion exposure resulted in glucose intolerance in the mothers during pregnancy and post-term period, regardless of the exposure dose. This was accompanied by increased visceral adipose tissue mass, dyslipidemia, unchanged pancreatic β-cell mass, and varying insulin responses to glucose in vivo. The number of total newborns and birthweight was not affected by malathion exposure. Adult offspring from both sexes also became glucose-intolerant, regardless of the pesticide dose their dams were exposed to. This alteration could be associated with changes at the epigenomic level, as reduced hepatic mRNA content of DNA methylases and demethylases was found. We demonstrated that periconceptional exposure to malathion with doses aiming to mimic from work environment to indirect contamination predisposes progenitors and offspring rats to glucose intolerance. Thus, we conclude that subchronic exposure to malathion is a risk factor for gestational diabetes and prediabetes later in life.

Neurotoxicity of pesticides in the context of CNS chronic diseases

Following the introduction and application of pesticides in human life, they have always been along with health concerns both in acute poisoning and chronic toxicities. Neurotoxicity of pesticides in chronic exposures has been known as one of the most important human health problems, as most of these chemicals act through interacting with some elements of nervous system. Pesticide-induced neurotoxicity can be defined in different categories of neurological disorders including neurodegenerative (Alzheimer, Parkinson, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis), neurodevelopmental (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorders, developmental delay, and intellectual disability), neurobehavioral and neuropsychiatric (depression/suicide attempt, anxiety/insomnia, and cognitive impairment) disorders some of which are among the most debilitating human health problems. In this review, neurotoxicity of pesticides in the mentioned categories and sub-categories of neurological diseases have been systematically presented in relation to different route of exposures including general, occupational, environmental, prenatal, postnatal, and paternal.

Exposure to organophosphates in association with the development of insulin resistance: Evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies

Insulin resistance is an underlying condition prior to the development of several diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cognitive impairment, and cerebrovascular complications. Organophosphates (OPs) are one of several factors thought to induce insulin resistance. Previous studies showed that the exposure to OPs pesticides induced insulin resistance through the impairment of hepatic glucose metabolism, pancreatic damage, and disruption of insulin signaling of both adipose tissues and skeletal muscles. Several studies reported possible mechanisms associated with OPs-induced insulin resistance in different models in in vivo studies including those in adult animals, obese animals, and offspring models, as well as in clinical studies. In addition, pharmacological interventions in OPs-induced insulin resistance have been previously investigated. This review aims to summarize and discuss all the evidence concerning OPs-induced insulin resistance in different models including in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies. The interventions of OPs-induced insulin resistance are also discussed. Any contradictory findings also considered. The information from this review will provide insight for possible therapeutic approaches to OPs-induced insulin resistance in the future.

An Overview of Diabetes Mellitus in Egypt and the Significance of Integrating Preventive Cardiology in Diabetes Management

In Egypt, diabetes mellitus (DM) is a significant public health concern, and the disease is considered a modern pandemic throughout the world. The incidence of diabetes is steadily climbing, which is causing grave concern. As a result, it is essential to take into consideration the risk factors that are pervasive in Egyptian society and have led to the worsening of this problem. These risk factors include sedentary lifestyles, obesity, hepatitis C infections, pesticides, smoking, and bad cultural habits. In this review, we aim to demonstrate the possible solutions to fight diabetes mellitus and overcome its serious health and socioeconomic burdens in Egypt. A multidisciplinary, team-based approach is highly recommended in diabetes management. Primary care physicians, endocrinologists, nephrologists, and preventive cardiologists all play a crucial role in providing the highest possible level of care to diabetic patients by collaborating closely with one another. The assessment of cardiovascular risk and the prevention of life-threatening cardiovascular events, common among diabetic patients, warrant the introduction of preventive cardiology, a new and significant concept in diabetes care that demands adoption. The integration of preventive cardiology into the treatment of diabetic patients is expected to significantly cut down the morbidity and mortality rates associated with diabetes mellitus and provide them with a better quality of life.

Ginseng® Alleviates Malathion-Induced Hepatorenal Injury through Modulation of the Biochemical, Antioxidant, Anti-Apoptotic, and Anti-Inflammatory Markers in Male Rats

This study aims to see if Ginseng^® can reduce the hepatorenal damage caused by malathion. Four groups of forty male Wistar albino rats were alienated. Group 1 was a control group that got orally supplied corn oil (vehicle). Group 2 was intoxicated by malathion dissolved in corn oil orally at 135 mg/kg/day. Group 3 orally received both malathion + Panax Ginseng^® (300 mg/kg/day). Group 4 was orally given Panax Ginseng^® at a 300 mg/kg/day dose. Treatments were administered daily and continued for up to 30 consecutive days. Malathion's toxic effect on both hepatic and renal tissues was revealed by a considerable loss in body weight and biochemically by a marked increase in liver enzymes, LDH, ACP, cholesterol, and functional renal markers with a marked decrease in serum TP, albumin, and TG levels with decreased AchE and Paraoxonase activity. Additionally, malondialdehydes, nitric oxide (nitrite), 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine, and TNFα with a significant drop in the antioxidant activities were reported in the malathion group. Malathion upregulated the inflammatory cytokines and apoptotic genes, while Nrf2, Bcl2, and HO-1 were downregulated. Ginseng^® and malathion co-treatment reduced malathion's harmful effects by restoring metabolic indicators, enhancing antioxidant pursuit, lowering the inflammatory reaction, and alleviating pathological alterations. So, Ginseng^® may have protective effects against hepatic and renal malathion-induced toxicity on biochemical, antioxidant, molecular, and cell levels.

Organophosphorus Pesticides as Modulating Substances of Inflammation through the Cholinergic Pathway

Organophosphorus pesticides (OPs) are widespread insecticides used for pest control in agricultural activities and the control of the vectors of human and animal diseases. However, OPs’ neurotoxic mechanism involves cholinergic components, which, beyond being involved in the transmission of neuronal signals, also influence the activity of cytokines and other pro-inflammatory molecules; thus, acute and chronic exposure to OPs may be related to the development of chronic degenerative pathologies and other inflammatory diseases. The present article reviews and discusses the experimental evidence linking inflammatory process with OP-induced cholinergic dysregulation, emphasizing the molecular mechanisms related to the role of cytokines and cellular alterations in humans and other animal models, and possible therapeutic targets to inhibit inflammation.

Understanding the binding behavior of Malathion with calf thymus DNA by spectroscopic, cell viability and molecular dynamics simulation techniques: binary and ternary systems comparison

The interaction between calf thymus DNA (ctDNA) and Malathion in the absence and presence of Histone 1 has been enquired by the means of spectroscopic, viscometry, molecular modeling, and cell viability assay techniques. Malathion is capable of quenching the fluorescence of ct DNA in the absence and presence of H1. The binding constants of Malathion-ctDNA complex in the absence of H1 have been calculated to be 6.62 × 10⁴, 4.31 × 10⁴ and 1.93 × 10⁴ M^-1 at 298, 303, and 308 K, respectively that revealed static quenching in complex formation. The observed negative values of enthalpy and entropy changes indicate that the main binding interaction forces were van der Waals force and hydrogen bonding. The binding constant between Malathion and single-stranded ctDNA (ss ctDNA) seemed to be much weaker than that of Malathion and double-stranded ctDNA (ds ctDNA). Furthermore, Malathion can induce detectable alterations in the CD spectrum of ctDNA, along with changes in its viscosity. In the presence of H1, fluorescence quenching of ctDNA-Malathion complex displays dynamic behavior and binding constants were perceived to be 1.66 × 10⁴, 2.93 × 10⁴ and 5.77 × 10⁴ M^-1 at 298, 303, and 308 K, respectively. The different of interaction behavior between ctDNA and Malathion in the absence and presence of H1 clearly revealed H1 role in the complex formation and forces change between ctDNA and Malathion. The positive values of enthalpy and entropy changes have suggested that binding process is primarily driven by hydrophobic interactions. The tendency to interact with ss ctDNA, reduced viscosity have designated that the Malathion bound to ctDNA in the presence of H1 is groove binding. The results of molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation also confirmed potent interactions between Malathion and the macromolecules in the binary and ternary systems.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Association between Organophosphate Pesticide Exposure and Insulin Resistance in Pesticide Sprayers and Nonfarmworkers

Insulin resistance is a risk factor for various diseases. Chronic organophosphate exposure has been reported to be a cause of insulin resistance in animal models. This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the association between organophosphate exposure and insulin resistance in pesticide sprayers and nonfarmworkers. Participants aged 40-60 years, consisting of 150 pesticide sprayers and 150 nonfarmworkers, were interviewed and assessed for their homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) level. Organophosphate (OP) exposure was measured in 37 sprayers and 46 nonfarmworkers by first morning urinary dialkyl phosphate (DAP) metabolites. The DAP metabolite levels were not different in either group except for diethylthiophosphate (DETP; p = 0.03), which was higher in sprayers. No significant association was observed between DAP metabolite levels and HOMA-IR. Wearing a mask while handling pesticides was associated with lower dimethyl metabolites (95% CI = -11.10, -0.17). Work practices of reading pesticide labels (95% CI = -81.47, -14.99) and washing hands after mixing pesticide (95% CI = -39.97, -3.35) correlated with lower diethyl alkylphosphate level. Overall, we did not observe any association between OP exposure and insulin resistance in pesticide sprayers and the general population. However, personal protective equipment (PPE) utilization and work practice were associated with OP exposure level in sprayers.

Biochemical, hematological and immunological parameters and relationship with occupational exposure to pesticides and metals

This study aimed to evaluate biomarkers of exposure to cholinesterase inhibitors insecticides (AChE and BuChE activities) and metals (As, Cd, Cr, Mn, Ni, and Pb blood levels) and their associations with biochemical, hematological, and immunological parameters in farmers from Southern Brazil. One hundred and sixteen individuals were divided into two groups: 62 farmers (exposed group) and 54 subjects non-occupationally exposed (NOE) to agrochemicals. Erythrocyte (AChE) and serum (BuChE) cholinesterases activities were significantly reduced as well as blood Cd and Pb levels were increased in farmers when compared to NOE group (p < 0.05). Farmers presented increased glucose and urea levels compared to NOE group, which were inversely associated with AChE and positively correlated with Cd (p < 0.05), respectively. In addition, Cd was inversely associated with the hematological cells counts, which were significantly reduced in farmers (p < 0.05). C3 complement was higher in farmers and was positively associated with blood Pb (p < 0.05). Surface protein expression analysis revealed a downregulation of LFA-1 and ICAM-1 in farmers. Inverse associations were found between LFA-1 and blood As, Cr, and Ni levels (p < 0.05). Taken together, our results pointed to a relationship between agrochemicals and metals exposure and biochemical, hematological, and immunological disorders that can lead to several chronic conditions.

Plasma paraoxonase1 activity in rats treated with monocrotophos: a study of the effect of duration of exposure

We have earlier demonstrated the potential of monocrotophos (MCP), a highly toxic organophosphorus insecticide (OPI), to elicit insulin resistance in rats after chronic exposure. Given the understanding of role of paraoxonase1 (PON1) in OPI toxicity and diabetes pathology, this study was envisaged to understand the effect of duration of exposure to MCP on plasma PON1 activity in rats. Rats were administered MCP per os at 1/20 and 1/10^th LD₅₀ as daily doses for 180 days. Interim blood samples were collected at 15, 30, 45, 90 and 180 d for analysis of plasma parameters. Exposure to MCP for 45 resulted in persistent trend of hyperinsulinemia, while significant increase in fasting glucose levels was observed after 180 days. MCP caused suppression of plasma cholinesterase activity though the study period, albeit extent of inhibition was more severe during the early phase of the study. Exposure to MCP for 180 d resulted in hypertriglyceridemia and marginal decrease in HDL-C levels. MCP failed to modulate PON1 activity in plasma during the early phase of the study (up to 45 d). However, prolonged exposure resulted in significant increase in the plasma PON1 activity. This suggests that manifestation of insulin resistance in rats subjected to chronic exposure to MCP is associated with increase in PON1 activity. Our work provides rationale for studying whether the increase in PON1 activity observed in the present study serves to counter the deleterious effect of long term exposure to organophosphorus insecticides on metabolic homeostasis.

Antihyperlipidemic and Antioxidative Properties of Pistacia atlantica subsp. kurdica in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Mice

INTRODUCTION

Pistacia atlantica subsp. kurdica is an important food source and a well-known medicinal plant in the Zagros Mountains of Iran. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of P. atlantica extract and essential oil in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Different doses of hydroalcoholic extract and essential oil of P. atlantica subsp. kurdica (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) were given to streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice in separate groups for three weeks. At the end of treatment, blood samples were collected; then, oxidative stress markers, TNF-α, and lipid profile were determined in its serum samples.

RESULTS

Our findings showed that the administration of P. atlantica extract for three consecutive weeks significantly improved the lipid profile, oxidative stress, and inflammation process by reducing lipid peroxidation and increasing total antioxidant capacity.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that P. atlantica subsp. kurdica has antioxidant and blood lipid-lowering effects that can be used as a supplement to improve diabetes complications.

Acute effects of different doses of malathion on the rat liver

Aim of the study

Our study was designed to evaluate the acute effects of malathion on rat liver tissues.

Material and methods

The animals were divided into 4 groups of 6 animals/each. Group 1 (control group) received corn oil, while groups 2, 3, and 4 were given malathion dissolved in corn oil at a dose of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, respectively. 24 hours after malathion administration, animals were sacrificed and liver tissues were collected. The liver tissues were then analysed biochemically and histopathologically.

Results

Butyrylcholinesterase levels in groups 2, 3 and 4 were significantly lower than that of group 1. Total oxidant status and tumour necrosis factor alpha level were significantly increased in group 4 compared to group 1. Catalase activities of groups 3 and 4 were significantly higher than that of group 1. Arylesterase activity was significantly decreased in groups 3 and 4 compared to group 1. In groups 3 and 4, some vacuoles in hepatocytes were revealed and hydropic degeneration was observed in group 4.

Conclusions

Acute administrations of malathion results in hepatotoxicity in a dose-dependent manner.

The role of ghrelin and tumor necrosis factor alpha in diazinon-induced dyslipidemia: insights into energy balance regulation

The evidence shows that organophosphate compounds (OPCs), as toxic agents that stimulate the cholinergic system, can increase the incidence of metabolic disorders such as dyslipidemia. In the present study, we focused on the role of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and serum leptin and ghrelin in Diazinon (DZN)-induced dyslipidemia. The rats were randomly divided into five groups comprising eight animals, and all were treated via oral gavage for 28 consecutive days as follows: group one received only corn oil daily, while groups two through five received different doses of DZN dissolved in corn oil equal to 1/40, 1/20, 1/10 and 1/5 of the LD50 daily, respectively. The alteration of the serum lipid profile, such as triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), was confirmed the occurrence of dyslipidemia in the range of doses 1/20-1/5 LD50 of DZN. Although no changes were found in the serum leptin levels, a significant increase was observed in the size of adipocytes, as well as in the TNF-α and ghrelin serum levels, and in the accumulation of epididymal fat, especially at a dose of 1/5 LD50 of DZN. It seems that interactions among the inflammatory reaction, cholinergic pathways and ghrelin secretion may be effective causes of DZN-induced dyslipidemia.

Corticosterone and pyridostigmine/DEET exposure attenuate peripheral cytokine expression: Supporting a dominant role for neuroinflammation in a mouse model of Gulf War Illness

Gulf War Illness (GWI) is a chronic multi-symptom disorder experienced by as many as a third of the veterans of the 1991 Gulf War; the constellation of "sickness behavior" symptoms observed in ill veterans is suggestive of a neuroimmune involvement. Various chemical exposures and conditions in theater have been implicated in the etiology of the illness. Previously, we found that GW-related organophosphates (OPs), such as the sarin surrogate, DFP, and chlorpyrifos, cause neuroinflammation. The combination of these exposures with exogenous corticosterone (CORT), mimicking high physiological stress, exacerbates the observed neuroinflammation. The potential relationship between the effects of OPs and CORT on the brain versus inflammation in the periphery has not been explored. Here, using our established GWI mouse model, we investigated the effects of CORT and DFP exposure, with or without a chronic application of pyridostigmine bromide (PB) and N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET), on cytokines in the liver and serum. While CORT primed DFP-induced neuroinflammation, this effect was largely absent in the periphery. Moreover, the changes found in the peripheral tissues do not correlate with the previously reported neuroinflammation. These results not only support GWI as a neuroimmune disorder, but also highlight the separation between central and peripheral effects of these exposures.

Effect of sub-toxic exposure to Malathion on glucose uptake and insulin signaling in L6 myoblast derived myotubes

Biochemical basis of Malathion exposure-induced diabetes mellitus is not known. Hence, effects of its sub-toxic exposure on redox sensitive kinases (RSKs), insulin signaling and insulin-induced glucose uptake were assessed in rat muscle cell line. In this in vitro study, rat myoblast (L6) cells were differentiated to myotubes and were exposed to sub-toxic concentrations (10 mg/l and 20 mg/l) of Malathion for 18 hours. Total antioxidant level and insulin-stimulated glucose uptake by myotubes were assayed. Activation of JNK, NFκB, p38MAPK and insulin signaling from tyrosine phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) and serine phosphorylation of Akt were assessed in myotubes after Malathion exposure by western blot and was compared with those in controls. Paraoxonase (PON) activity was measured in cell lysate using p-nitrophenyl acetate as substrate. PON1 and PON2 expression in myotubes were assessed by PCR. The glucose uptake and total antioxidant level in L6-derived myotubes after sub-toxic exposure to Malathion were decreased in a dose-dependent manner. Phosphorylation levels of RSKs (JNK, p38MAPK and IκBα component of NFκB) were increased and that of IRS-1 and Akt on insulin stimulation was decreased following Malathion exposure as compared to those in controls. PON1 and PON2 genes were expressed in myotubes with and without Malathion exposure. Significant PON activity was present in cell lysate. We conclude that sub-toxic Malathion exposure induces oxidative stress in muscle cells activating RSKs that impairs insulin signaling and thereby insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in muscle cells. This probably explains the biochemical basis of Malathion-induced insulin resistance state and diabetes mellitus.

Effects of exposure to malathion on blood glucose concentration: a meta-analysis

Exposure to malathion (an organophosphate pesticide widely used around the world) has been associated with alterations in blood glucose concentration in animal models. However, the results are inconsistent. The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate whether malathion exposure can disturb the concentrations of blood glucose in exposed rats. We performed a literature search of online databases including PubMed, EBSCO, and Google Scholar and reviewed original articles that analyzed the relation between malathion exposure and glucose levels in animal models. The selection of articles was based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The database search identified thirty-five possible articles, but only eight fulfilled our inclusion criteria, and these studies were included in the meta-analysis. The effect of malathion on blood glucose concentration showed a non-monotonic dose-response curve. In addition, pooled analysis showed that blood glucose concentrations were 3.3-fold higher in exposed rats than in the control group (95% CI, 2-5; Z = 3.9; p < 0.0001) in a random-effect model. This result suggested that alteration of glucose homeostasis is a possible mechanism of toxicity associated with exposure to malathion.

Alteration of hepatocellular antioxidant gene expression pattern and biomarkers of oxidative damage in diazinon-induced acute toxicity in Wistar rat: A time-course mechanistic study

In the present survey, the plasma level of diazinon after acute exposure was measured by HPLC method at a time-course manner. In addition, the impact of diazinon on the expression of the key genes responsible for hepatocellular antioxidative defense, including PON1, GPx and CAT were investigated. The increase in oxidative damages in treated rats was determined by measuring LPO, protein carbonyl content and total antioxidant power in plasma. After administration of 85 mg/kg diazinon in ten groups of male Wistar rats at different time points between 0-24 hours, the activity of AChE enzyme was inhibited to about 77.94 %. Significant increases in carbonyl groups and LPO after 0.75 and 1 hours were also observed while the plasma antioxidant power was significantly decreased. Despite the dramatic reduction of GP_X and PON1 gene expression, CAT gene was significantly upregulated in mRNA level by 1.1 fold after 4 hours and 1.5-fold after 24 hours due to diazinon exposure, compared to control group. Furthermore, no significant changes in diazinon plasma levels were found after 4 hours in the treated rats. The limits of detection and quantification were 137.42 and 416.52 ng/mL, respectively. The average percentage recoveries from plasma were between 90.62 % and 95.72 %. In conclusion, acute exposure to diazinon increased oxidative stress markers in a time-dependent manner and the changes were consistent with effects on hepatic antioxidant gene expression pattern. The effect of diazinon even as a non-lethal dose was induced on the gene expression of antioxidant enzymes. The change in antioxidant defense system occurs prior to diazinon plasma peak time. These results provide biochemical and molecular evidence supporting potential acute toxicity of diazinon and is beneficial in the evaluation of acute toxicity of other organophosphorus pesticides as well.

Thymoquinone attenuates hepatotoxicity and oxidative damage caused by diazinon: an in vivo study

Thymoquinone (TQ) is the main active constituent of Nigella sativa seeds. The objective of this study was to explore the protective effects of TQ on diazinon (DZN)-induced liver toxicity in the mouse model. The animals were divided into five groups of 6 each and treated intraperitoneally. Group 1 received the vehicle, group 2 was given 16 mg/kg DZN, group 3 received 5 mg/kg TQ, and groups 4 and 5 were treated with 1.25 and 5 mg/kg of TQ as well as 16 mg/kg DZN, respectively. Finally, butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) serum activity as well as nitric oxide (NO), lipid peroxidation (LPO), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total thiol molecule (TTM), and histopathological experiments were evaluated in the liver samples. Our findings showed that DZN caused a significant increase in ALT (P < 0.01), AST (P < 0.001), ALP (P < 0.001) serum levels, LPO (P < 0.001) and NO (P < 0.001), the depletion of the TAC (P < 0.05) and TTM (P < 0.001), and structural changes in the liver tissue. Following TQ administration, a significant improvement was observed in the oxidative stress biomarkers in the liver tissue. In addition, our biochemical findings were correlated well to the histopathological examinations. In conclusion, the data from this study indicate that the administration of TQ may prevent liver damage by preventing free radical formation in animals exposed to DZN.

Molecular mechanisms of action of styrene toxicity in blood plasma and liver

Styrene is an aromatic colorless hydrocarbon available in liquid form and highly volatile. In its pure form, it gives a sweet smell. The primary source of exposure in the environment is from plastic materials, rubber industries, packaging materials, insulations, and fiber glass and carpet industry. Natural sources of styrene include: few metabolites in plants which are transferred through food chain. The current study was designed to evaluate styrene toxicity, including: superoxide dismutase (SOD) and protein carbonyl, oxidative stress, glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase), glycogen phosphorylase (GP), and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) activities, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to adenosine diphosphate (ADP) ratio, and changes in gene expressions such as glutamate dehydrogenase 1 (GLUD1), glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2), and glucokinase (GCK) in the rat liver tissue. For this purpose, styrene was dissolved in corn oil and was administered via gavage, at doses 250, 500, 1000, 1500, 2000, mg/kg/day per mL and control (corn oil) to each rat with one day off in a week, for 42 days. Plasma SOD and protein carbonyl of plasma were significantly up-regulated in 1000, 1500, and 2000 mg/kg/day styrene administrated groups (P < .001). In addition, styrene caused an increase in lipid peroxidation (LPO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the dose-dependent manners in liver tissue (P < .001). Furthermore, the ferrous reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and total thiol molecules (TTM) in styrene-treated groups were significantly decreased in liver tissue (P < .001) with increasing doses. In treated rats, styrene significantly increased G6Pase activity (P < .001) and down-regulated GP activity (P < .001) as compared to the control group. The PEPCK activity was significantly raised in a dose-dependent manner (P < .001). The ATP/ADP ratio of live cells was significantly raised by increasing the dose (P < .001). There was significantly an up-regulation of GLUD1 and GCK at 2000 mg/kg group (P < .01) and a down-regulation for GLUT2 at the same dose. While in the rest of group, GLUT2 showed up-regulation of relative fold change. By targeting genes such as GLUD1, GLUT2, and GCK, disruption of hepatic gluconeogenesis, glycogenolysis, and insulin secretory functions are obvious. The present study illustrates that induction of oxidative stress followed by changes in G6Pase, GP, and PEPCK activities and the genes responsible for glucose metabolism are the mechanisms of styrene's action in the liver.

Carnosine ameliorates liver fibrosis and hyperammonemia in cirrhotic rats

AIM

Chronic liver injury and cirrhosis leads to liver failure. Hyperammonemia is a deleterious consequence of liver failure. On the other hand, oxidative stress seems to play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis as well as in the cytotoxic mechanism of ammonia. There is no promising therapeutic agent against ammonia-induced complications. The present study was conducted to evaluate the role of carnosine (CA) administration on liver pathological changes, elevated plasma ammonia, and its consequent events in cirrhotic rats.

METHODS

Bile duct ligated (BDL) rats were used as a model of cirrhosis. CA (250, 500, and 1000mg/kg, daily, i.p) was administered for 28 consecutive days to BDL animals. At the end of treatments, markers of oxidative stress and liver fibrosis was determined in liver and serum biomarkers of liver injury and plasma ammonia was assessed. Moreover, changes in animals' locomotor activity were monitored.

RESULTS

Severe bridging fibrosis, inflammation, and necrosis in liver, along with elevated serum biomarkers of liver injury were evident in BDL animals. Furthermore, plasma ammonia was drastically elevated in cirrhotic rats and animals' locomotor activity was suppressed. It was found that CA (250, 500, and 1000mg/kg, daily, i.p) significantly alleviated liver injury and its consequent events in cirrhotic rats. The data suggested that CA is not only a useful and safe agent to preserve liver function, but also prevented hyperammonemia and brain damage as a deleterious consequence of cirrhosis and liver failure.

Permethrin alters glucose metabolism in conjunction with high fat diet by potentiating insulin resistance and decreases voluntary activities in female C57BL/6J mice

Permethrin, a type 1 pyrethroid insecticide, was previously reported to promote adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and insulin resistance in C2C12 muscle cells; however, the effects of permethrin exposure on glucose and lipid metabolisms in vivo remain unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of permethrin exposure on glucose and lipid homeostasis as well as voluntary movement in female mice in response to dietary fat. We tested three doses of permethrin (50, 500, & 5000 μg/kg body weight/day) in low fat diet-fed (4% w/w of diet) and high fat diet-fed (20% w/w of diet) female C57BL/6 J mice for twelve weeks. Our results demonstrated that permethrin treatment potentiated high fat diet-induced insulin resistance as indicated by insulin tolerance tests, glucose tolerance tests, and homeostasis model assessment - insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) without altering weight or fat mass. Permethrin treatment significantly decreased voluntary movement and elevated blood glucose and insulin levels. Western blot results further showed that permethrin impaired insulin signaling via the Akt signaling pathway in the gastrocnemius muscle. Taken together, these results suggest that oral administration of permethrin potentiated high fat diet-induced insulin resistance, possibly increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes without altering weight gain in female C57BL/6 J mice.

Potential contribution of insecticide exposure and development of obesity and type 2 diabetes

The introduction of insecticides has greatly improved agricultural productivity and human nutrition; however, the wide use of insecticides has also sparked growing concern over their health impacts. Increased rate of cancers, neurodegenerative disorders, reproductive dysfunction, birth defects, respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases and aging have been linked with insecticide exposure. Meanwhile, a growing body of evidence is suggesting that exposure to insecticides can also potentiate the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes. This review summarizes the relationship between insecticide exposure and development of obesity and type 2 diabetes using epidemiological and rodent animal studies, including potential mechanisms. The evidence as a whole suggests that exposure to insecticides is linked to increased risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Protective effects of cerium oxide and yttrium oxide nanoparticles on reduction of oxidative stress induced by sub-acute exposure to diazinon in the rat pancreas

Diazinon is a kind of organophosphorus (OP) compound that is broadly used against different species of insects and pests. Oxidative stress can occur at very early stages of diazinon exposure and the pancreas is one of the main target organs for toxicity by diazinon. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2 NPs) and yttrium oxide nanoparticles (Y2O3 NPs) against the pancreatic damage from sub-acute exposure of diazinon. Diazinon at a dose of 70mg/kg/day was given through gavage to rats once a day. Along with diazinon, trace amounts of CeO2 NPs and Y2O3 NPs (35mg/kg and 45mg/kg per day, respectively) were administered by intraperitoneal injection once a day for 2 weeks. Animals weight and blood glucose were measured during the treatment, and oxidative stress biomarkers, diabetes physiology, function and viability of cells were investigated at the end of the treatment in serum and pancreas tissues. Apoptosis of islets was examined by the flow cytometry. The high blood glucose level and significant weight loss resulting from diazinon were modified as a result of the application of the NPs. A significant recovery in oxidative stress markers, pro-insulin, insulin, C-peptide, adenosine diphosphate/adenosine triphosphate (ATP/ADP) ratio, caspase-3 and -9 activities and apoptosis-necrosis in the islets was observed. In conclusion, administration of CeO2 NPs or Y2O3 NPs only or their combination with suitable and defined dose will help to overcome the consequences from oxidant agents.

Pesticides: an update of human exposure and toxicity

Pesticides are a family of compounds which have brought many benefits to mankind in the agricultural, industrial, and health areas, but their toxicities in both humans and animals have always been a concern. Regardless of acute poisonings which are common for some classes of pesticides like organophosphoruses, the association of chronic and sub-lethal exposure to pesticides with a prevalence of some persistent diseases is going to be a phenomenon to which global attention has been attracted. In this review, incidence of various malignant, neurodegenerative, respiratory, reproductive, developmental, and metabolic diseases in relation to different routes of human exposure to pesticides such as occupational, environmental, residential, parental, maternal, and paternal has been systematically criticized in different categories of pesticide toxicities like carcinogenicity, neurotoxicity, pulmonotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, developmental toxicity, and metabolic toxicity. A huge body of evidence exists on the possible role of pesticide exposures in the elevated incidence of human diseases such as cancers, Alzheimer, Parkinson, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, asthma, bronchitis, infertility, birth defects, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism, diabetes, and obesity. Most of the disorders are induced by insecticides and herbicides most notably organophosphorus, organochlorines, phenoxyacetic acids, and triazine compounds.

Pyrethroid insecticide lambda-cyhalothrin and its metabolites induce liver injury through the activation of oxidative stress and proinflammatory gene expression in rats following acute and subchronic exposure

Lambda-cyhalothrin (LTC) [α-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl-3-(2-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoro-1-propenyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclo-propanecarboxylate] is a synthetic type II pyrethroid insecticide commonly used in residential and agricultural areas. The potential hepatotoxicity of pyrethroids remains unclear and could easily be assessed by measuring common clinical indicators of liver disease. To understand more about the potential risks for humans associated with LTC exposure, male adult rats were orally exposed to 6.2 and 31.1 mg/kg bw of LTC for 7, 30, 45, and 60 days. Histopathological changes and alterations of main parameters related to oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in the liver were evaluated. Further, lambda-cyhalothrin metabolites [3-(2-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoroprop-1-enyl)-2,2-dimethyl-cyclopropane carboxylic acid (CFMP), 4-hydroxyphenoxybenzoic acid (4-OH-3-PBA), and 3-phenoxybenzoic acid (3-PBA)] in the liver tissues were identified and quantified by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadripole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS-Q-ToF). Results revealed that LTC exposure significantly increased markers of hepatic oxidative stress in a time-dependent and dose-dependent manner, and this was associated with an accumulation of CFMP and 3-PBA in the liver tissues. In addition, the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin (IL-6 and IL-1β) gene expressions were significantly increased in the liver of exposed rats compared to controls. Correlation analyses revealed that CFMP and 3-PBA metabolite levels in the liver tissues were significantly correlated with the indexes of oxidative stress, redox status, and inflammatory markers in rats exposed to lambda-cyhalothin. Overall, this study provided novel evidence that hepatic damage is likely due to increased oxidative stress and inflammation under the condition of acute and subchronic exposure to lambda-cyhalothrin and that LTC metabolites (CFMP and 3-PBA) could be used as potential biomarker in human biomonitoring studies.

An Emerging Role of micro-RNA in the Effect of the Endocrine Disruptors

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are diverse natural and synthetic chemicals that may alter various mechanisms of the endocrine system and produce adverse developmental, reproductive, metabolic, and neurological effects in both humans and wildlife. Research on EDCs has revealed that they use a variety of both nuclear receptor-mediated and non-receptor-mediated mechanisms to modulate different components of the endocrine system. The molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of EDCs are still under investigation. Interestingly, some of the effects of EDCs have been observed to pass on to subsequent unexposed generations, which can be explained by the gametic transmission of deregulated epigenetic marks. Epigenetics is the study of heritable changes in gene expression that occur without a change in the DNA sequence. Epigenetic mechanisms, including histone modifications, DNA methylation, and specific micro-RNAs (miRNAs) expression, have been proposed to mediate transgenerational transmission and can be triggered by environmental factors. MiRNAs are short non-coding RNA molecules that post-transcriptionally repress the expression of genes by binding to 3′-untranslated regions of the target mRNAs. Given that there is mounting evidence that miRNAs are regulated by hormones, then clearly it is important to investigate the potential for environmental EDCs to deregulate miRNA expression and action.

Interrelation of Glycemic Status and Neuropsychiatric Disturbances in Farmers with Organophosphorus Pesticide Toxicity

BACKGROUND

Diverse group of agro-chemicals are indiscriminately sprayed by the farmers for pest control to enhance crop yield. About 25 million agricultural workers in the developing world suffer from at least one episode of poisoning each year, mainly by anticholinesterase- like organophosphates (OPs).

OBJECTIVE

The present study was aimed to establish the OP toxicity in 187 occupationally exposed pesticide sprayers of mango plantation in rural Malihabad, Lucknow, in terms of neuro-cognitive impairment, mental health status, clinical symptoms, diabetes, and hematological factors.

METHOD

The exposed group was compared to 187 pesticides-unexposed normal healthy persons engaged in normal usual agricultural work (age, sex and education corresponding to age group of selected subject group) from Rural Malihabad, Lucknow (India). Neuro-cognitive impairment was measured using the Subjective Neurocognition Inventory and mental health status using the General Health questionnaire-28. The subjects were also tested for biochemical and enzymatic parameters.

RESULTS

The exposed farmers showed alterations in enzymatic and clinical parameters. While the rates of anxiety / insomnia and severe depression were also significantly higher in the pesticide sprayers, disorders affecting psychomotor speed, selective attention, divided attention, verbal memory, nonverbal memory, prospective memory, spatial functioning, and initiative/energy were all lower in the sprayers. Pesticide sprayers showed a number of clinical symptoms like eczema, saliva secretion, fatigue, headache, sweating, abdominal pain, nausea, superior distal muscle weakness, inferior distal muscle weakness, hand tingling and etc. which all significantly correlated with the number of working years.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggested that farmers who work with OPs are prone to neuro-psychological disorders and diabetes.

Persistent Organic Pollutants and Concern Over the Link with Insulin Resistance Related Metabolic Diseases

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are mostly halogenated compounds tending to persist in the environment, enter into the food chain, and accumulate in fat mass of mammals due to their high lipophilicity. They include some organochlorine pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls, brominated flame retardants and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Some of these chemicals were widely used in the past so that their residues can be detected in the human body, though their usage has been banned for years. POPs have been shown to perturb the health of biological systems in different ways evidenced by carcinogenicity and disrupting effects on endocrine, immune, and reproductive systems. There are many epidemiologic and experimental studies on the association of exposure to POPs with insulin resistance and related metabolic disorders like obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Inflammation as a known mechanism accompanying insulin resistance has also been shown to arise in insulin target tissues exposed to POPs. This review addresses the breast milk concentration of POPs in different regions of the world, synthesizes the current information on the association of POPs with insulin resistance related metabolic disorders, and discusses the inflammation as an involved mechanism. Considering high prevalence of insulin resistance related metabolic diseases and their relation with POPs, much need is felt regarding international and regional programs to not only limit their production and usage but eliminate these persistent pollutants from the environment.