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Bello KAS, Wilke MCB, Simões RP, Landim-Vieira M, Langa P, Stefanon I, Vassallo DV, Fernandes AA. Chronic exposure to mercury increases arrhythmia and mortality post-acute myocardial infarction in rats. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1260509. [PMID: 37929206 PMCID: PMC10622797 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1260509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Mercury (Hg) is a heavy metal that causes a variety of toxic effects in eukaryotic cells. Previous studies have reported detrimental effects of mercury toxicity in the cardiovascular system. Given the importance of understanding the relationship between Hg and cardiovascular disease, we sought to investigate if the Hg could worsen the myocardial repercussions following ischemic injury. We demonstrated that once mercury toxicity is established, it can influence the outcome of myocardial infarction (MI). Methods: Male Wistar rats received intramuscular injections of either saline (NaCl 0.9%) or mercuric chloride (HgCl2, first dose of 4.6 μg/kg, and subsequent doses of 0.07 μg/kg/day) for 4 weeks. Three weeks post-exposure, we induced transmural infarction in the left ventricle free wall through coronary artery occlusion surgery. Results: ECG recordings obtained from MI groups demonstrated alterations in the rhythm of the heartbeat/heart electrical activity, as expected, including ventricular extrasystoles and ventricular tachycardia. However, the MI group exposed to Hg (MI-Hg) exhibited augmented ventricular extrasystoles and ventricular tachycardia compared to the MI group. Also, Basckó coefficient revealed that the arrhythmic events-after MI-were aggravated by Hg exposure. Discussion: Our results indicate that the significantly increased mortality in MI-Hg groups when compared to MI (21%, MI vs 32%, MI-Hg) is correlated with greater occurrence of arrhythmias. In conclusion, this study further supports the idea that exposure to mercury (Hg) should be recognized as a significant risk factor that exacerbates the impact of cardiac ischemic injury, potentially leading to an increased mortality rate among patients experiencing acute MI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keren A. S. Bello
- Department of Physiological Sciences of the Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitória, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | - Maria Clara B. Wilke
- Department of Physiological Sciences of the Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitória, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | - Rakel P. Simões
- Department of Physiological Sciences of the Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitória, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | - Maicon Landim-Vieira
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| | - Paulina Langa
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Ivanita Stefanon
- Department of Physiological Sciences of the Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitória, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | - Dalton Valentim Vassallo
- Department of Physiological Sciences of the Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitória, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | - Aurélia Araújo Fernandes
- Department of Physiological Sciences of the Federal University of Espirito Santo, Vitória, Espirito Santo, Brazil
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Prince LM, Aschner M, Bowman AB. Human-induced pluripotent stems cells as a model to dissect the selective neurotoxicity of methylmercury. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2019; 1863:129300. [PMID: 30742955 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2019.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Revised: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a potent neurotoxicant affecting both the developing and mature central nervous system (CNS) with apparent indiscriminate disruption of multiple homeostatic pathways. However, genetic and environmental modifiers contribute significant variability to neurotoxicity associated with human exposures. MeHg displays developmental stage and neural lineage selective neurotoxicity. To identify mechanistic-based neuroprotective strategies to mitigate human MeHg exposure risk, it will be critical to improve our understanding of the basis of MeHg neurotoxicity and of this selective neurotoxicity. Here, we propose that human-based pluripotent stem cell cellular approaches may enable mechanistic insight into genetic pathways that modify sensitivity of specific neural lineages to MeHg-induced neurotoxicity. Such studies are crucial for the development of novel disease modifying strategies impinging on MeHg exposure vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Prince
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2051, United States
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, United States
| | - Aaron B Bowman
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2051, United States.
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Wahlberg K, Love TM, Pineda D, Engström K, Watson GE, Thurston SW, Yeates AJ, Mulhern MS, McSorley EM, Strain JJ, Smith TH, Davidson PW, Shamlaye CF, Myers GJ, Rand MD, van Wijngaarden E, Broberg K. Maternal polymorphisms in glutathione-related genes are associated with maternal mercury concentrations and early child neurodevelopment in a population with a fish-rich diet. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2018; 115:142-149. [PMID: 29573653 PMCID: PMC5970067 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2018.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2017] [Revised: 03/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2018] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Glutathione (GSH) pathways play a key role the metabolism and elimination of the neurotoxicant methylmercury (MeHg). We hypothesized that maternal genetic variation linked to GSH pathways could influence MeHg concentrations in pregnant mothers and children and thereby also affect early life development. METHODS The GCLM (rs41303970, C/T), GCLC (rs761142, T/G) and GSTP1 (rs1695, A/G) polymorphisms were genotyped in 1449 mothers in a prospective study of the Seychellois population with a diet rich in fish. Genotypes were analyzed in association with maternal hair and blood Hg, fetal blood Hg (cord blood Hg), as well as children's mental (MDI) and motor development (PDI; MDI and PDI assessed by Bayley Scales of Infant Development at 20 months). We also examined whether genotypes modified the association between Hg exposure and developmental outcomes. RESULTS GCLC rs761142 TT homozygotes showed statistically higher mean maternal hair Hg (4.12 ppm) than G carriers (AG 3.73 and GG 3.52 ppm) (p = 0.037). For the combination of GCLC rs761142 and GCLM rs41303970, double homozygotes TT + CC showed higher hair Hg (4.40 ppm) than G + T carriers (3.44 ppm; p = 0.018). No associations were observed between GSTP1 rs1695 and maternal hair Hg or between any genotypes and maternal blood Hg or cord blood Hg. The maternal GSTP1 rs1695 rare allele (G) was associated with a lower MDI among children (β = -1.48, p = 0.048). We also observed some interactions: increasing Hg in maternal and cord blood was associated with lower PDI among GCLC rs761142 TT carriers; and increasing Hg in hair was associated with lower MDI among GSTP1 rs1695 GG carriers. CONCLUSIONS Maternal genetic variation in genes involved in GSH synthesis is statistically associated with Hg concentrations in maternal hair, but not in maternal or fetal blood. We observed interactions that suggest maternal GSH genetics may modify associations between MeHg exposure and neurodevelopmental outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Wahlberg
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, 22185 Lund, Sweden
| | - Tanzy M Love
- University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Daniela Pineda
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, 22185 Lund, Sweden
| | - Karin Engström
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, 22185 Lund, Sweden
| | - Gene E Watson
- University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Sally W Thurston
- University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Alison J Yeates
- Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), Ulster University, Cromore Road, Coleraine BT52 1SA, Co. Londonderry, UK
| | - Maria S Mulhern
- Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), Ulster University, Cromore Road, Coleraine BT52 1SA, Co. Londonderry, UK
| | - Emeir M McSorley
- Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), Ulster University, Cromore Road, Coleraine BT52 1SA, Co. Londonderry, UK
| | - J J Strain
- Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), Ulster University, Cromore Road, Coleraine BT52 1SA, Co. Londonderry, UK
| | - Tristram H Smith
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, 22185 Lund, Sweden
| | - Philip W Davidson
- University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | | | - G J Myers
- University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Matthew D Rand
- University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Edwin van Wijngaarden
- University of Rochester Medical Center, School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Karin Broberg
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, 22185 Lund, Sweden; Institute of Environmental Medicine, Metals and Health, Box 210, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
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Skvortsova L, Perfelyeva A, Khussainova E, Mansharipova A, Forman HJ, Djansugurova L. Association of GCLM -588C/T and GCLC -129T/C Promoter Polymorphisms of Genes Coding the Subunits of Glutamate Cysteine Ligase with Ischemic Heart Disease Development in Kazakhstan Population. DISEASE MARKERS 2017; 2017:4209257. [PMID: 28757675 PMCID: PMC5516751 DOI: 10.1155/2017/4209257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Revised: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glutamate cysteine ligase (GCL) is a rate-limiting enzyme in synthesis of glutathione. Evidence suggests that genetic variations in the promoter region of genes coding a catalytic subunit (GCLC -129T/C) and a modifier subunit (GCLM -588C/T) of GCL have a functional impact on their transcriptional activity and were associated with various disorders. Hence, we hypothesize whether these two polymorphic variants of GCLM and GCLC genes are associated with the risk of ischemic heart disease (IHD) development in the population of Kazakhstan. METHODS We evaluated 360 patients with IHD and 341 control subjects. Allele frequencies of studied promoters' polymorphisms were detected by PCR-RFLP analysis. Multiple logistic regression analysis was applied to assess the risk for different genotypes obtained. RESULTS The presence of -588T allele in GCLM and -129T allele in GCLC gene genotypes was associated with an increased risk of IHD (GCLM -588T: OR = 3.92, p = 0.003; GCLC -129T: OR = 3.22, p = 0.03) for general ethnically mixed group. Analysis of each ethnical groups separately showed the higher risk tendency for Kazakhs as for GCLM -588T (OR = 4.79; p = 0.03) and as for GCLC -129T (OR = 4.79, p = 0.03). For Russians, statistically differences for two polymorphisms were not observed. CONCLUSION The two promoter polymorphisms of GCLM (-588C/T) and GCLC (-128T/C) are associated with an increased risk of IHD in Kazakhstan population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliya Skvortsova
- Institute of General Genetics and Cytology, Al-Farabi St. 93, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Anastasia Perfelyeva
- Institute of General Genetics and Cytology, Al-Farabi St. 93, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Elmira Khussainova
- Institute of General Genetics and Cytology, Al-Farabi St. 93, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | | | - Henry Jay Forman
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, 3715 McClintock Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Leyla Djansugurova
- Institute of General Genetics and Cytology, Al-Farabi St. 93, Almaty, Kazakhstan
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Genetic Aspects of Susceptibility to Mercury Toxicity: An Overview. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14010093. [PMID: 28106810 PMCID: PMC5295343 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14010093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Human exposure to mercury is still a major public health concern. In this context, children have a higher susceptibility to adverse neurological mercury effects, compared to adults with similar exposures. Moreover, there exists a marked variability of personal response to detrimental mercury action, in particular among population groups with significant mercury exposure. New scientific evidence on genetic backgrounds has raised the issue of whether candidate susceptibility genes can make certain individuals more or less vulnerable to mercury toxicity. In this review, the aim is to evaluate a new genetic dimension and its involvement in mercury risk assessment, focusing on the important role played by relevant polymorphisms, located in attractive gene targets for mercury toxicity. Existing original articles on epidemiologic research which report a direct link between the genetic basis of personal vulnerability and different mercury repercussions on human health will be reviewed. Based on this evidence, a careful evaluation of the significant markers of susceptibility will be suggested, in order to obtain a powerful positive “feedback” to improve the quality of life. Large consortia of studies with clear phenotypic assessments will help clarify the “window of susceptibility” in the human health risks due to mercury exposure.
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Llop S, Ballester F, Broberg K. Effect of Gene-Mercury Interactions on Mercury Toxicokinetics and Neurotoxicity. Curr Environ Health Rep 2015; 2:179-94. [DOI: 10.1007/s40572-015-0047-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Multifactorial Origin of Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Approaches to Understanding Complex Etiologies. TOXICS 2015; 3:89-129. [PMID: 29056653 PMCID: PMC5634696 DOI: 10.3390/toxics3010089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2014] [Revised: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
A significant body of evidence supports the multifactorial etiology of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) affecting children. The present review focuses on early exposure to environmental chemicals as a risk factor for neurodevelopment, and presents the major lines of evidence derived from epidemiological studies, underlying key uncertainties and research needs in this field. We introduce the exposome concept that, encompassing the totality of human environmental exposures to multiple risk factors, aims at explaining individual vulnerability and resilience to early chemical exposure. In this framework, we synthetically review the role of variable gene backgrounds, the involvement of epigenetic mechanisms as well as the function played by potential effect modifiers such as socioeconomic status. We describe laboratory rodent studies where the neurodevelopmental effects of environmental chemicals are assessed in the presence of either a “vulnerable” gene background or adverse pregnancy conditions (i.e., maternal stress). Finally, we discuss the need for more descriptive and “lifelike” experimental models of NDDs, to identify candidate biomarkers and pinpoint susceptible groups or life stages to be translated to large prospective studies within the exposome framework.
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Prince L, Korbas M, Davidson P, Broberg K, Rand MD. Target organ specific activity of drosophila MRP (ABCC1) moderates developmental toxicity of methylmercury. Toxicol Sci 2014; 140:425-35. [PMID: 24863968 PMCID: PMC4176053 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfu095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2014] [Accepted: 05/13/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a ubiquitous and persistent neurotoxin that poses a risk to human health. Although the mechanisms of MeHg toxicity are not fully understood, factors that contribute to susceptibility are even less well known. Studies of human gene polymorphisms have identified a potential role for the multidrug resistance-like protein (MRP/ABCC) family, ATP-dependent transporters, in MeHg susceptibility. MRP transporters have been shown to be important for MeHg excretion in adult mouse models, but their role in moderating MeHg toxicity during development has not been explored. We therefore investigated effects of manipulating expression levels of MRP using a Drosophila development assay. Drosophila MRP (dMRP) is homologous to human MRP1-4 (ABCC1-4), sharing 50% identity and 67% similarity with MRP1. A greater susceptibility to MeHg is seen in dMRP mutant flies, demonstrated by reduced rates of eclosion on MeHg-containing food. Furthermore, targeted knockdown of dMRP expression using GAL4>UAS RNAi methods demonstrates a tissue-specific function for dMRP in gut, Malpighian tubules, and the nervous system in moderating developmental susceptibility to MeHg. Using X-ray synchrotron fluorescence imaging, these same tissues were also identified as the highest Hg-accumulating tissues in fly larvae. Moreover, higher levels of Hg are seen in dMRP mutant larvae compared with a control strain fed an equivalent dose of MeHg. In sum, these data demonstrate that dMRP expression, both globally and within Hg-targeted organs, has a profound effect on susceptibility to MeHg in developing flies. Our findings point to a potentially novel and specific role for dMRP in neurons in the protection against MeHg. Finally, this experimental system provides a tractable model to evaluate human polymorphic variants of MRP and other gene variants relevant to genetic studies of mercury-exposed populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Prince
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Ave, Box EHSC, Rochester, New York 14642
| | - Malgorzata Korbas
- Canadian Light Source Inc. 44 Innovation Boulevard, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2V3, Canada Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Philip Davidson
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Ave, Box EHSC, Rochester, New York 14642 Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Ave, Box EHSC, Rochester, New York 14642
| | - Karin Broberg
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Box 210, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden, 171-77
| | - Matthew Dearborn Rand
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Ave, Box EHSC, Rochester, New York 14642
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Basu N, Goodrich JM, Head J. Ecogenetics of mercury: from genetic polymorphisms and epigenetics to risk assessment and decision-making. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2014; 33:1248-58. [PMID: 24038486 DOI: 10.1002/etc.2375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2013] [Revised: 05/10/2013] [Accepted: 08/08/2013] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The risk assessment of mercury (Hg), in both humans and wildlife, is made challenging by great variability in exposure and health effects. Although disease risk arises following complex interactions between genetic ("nature") and environmental ("nurture") factors, most Hg studies thus far have focused solely on environmental factors. In recent years, ecogenetic-based studies have emerged and have started to document genetic and epigenetic factors that may indeed influence the toxicokinetics or toxicodynamics of Hg. The present study reviews these studies and discusses their utility in terms of Hg risk assessment, management, and policy and offers perspectives on fruitful areas for future research. In brief, epidemiological studies on populations exposed to inorganic Hg (e.g., dentists and miners) or methylmercury (e.g., fish consumers) are showing that polymorphisms in a number of environmentally responsive genes can explain variations in Hg biomarker values and health outcomes. Studies on mammals (wildlife, humans, rodents) are showing Hg exposures to be related to epigenetic marks such as DNA methylation. Such findings are beginning to increase understanding of the mechanisms of action of Hg, and in doing so they may help identify candidate biomarkers and pinpoint susceptible groups or life stages. Furthermore, they may help refine uncertainty factors and thus lead to more accurate risk assessments and improved decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niladri Basu
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a highly toxic, non-essential, naturally occurring metal with a variety of uses. Mercury is not required for any known biological process and its presence in the human body may be detrimental, especially to the nervous system. Both genetic and behavioral studies suggest that mercury levels, age (both of exposure and at testing), and genetic background determine disease processes and outcome. The metal receptors and genes responsible for mercury metabolism also appear to play a pivotal role in the etiology of mercury-induced pathology. This review presents information about the latest advances in mercury research, with particular focus on low-level exposures and the contribution of genetics to toxic outcome. Future studies should address the contribution of genetics and low-level mercury exposure to disease, namely gene x environment interactions, taking into consideration age of exposure as developing animals are exquisitely more sensitive to this metal. In addition to recent advances in understanding the pathology associated with mercury exposure, the review highlights transport mechanisms, cellular distribution and detoxification of mercury species in the body.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Forchheimer 209, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
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Scientific Opinion on the risk for public health related to the presence of mercury and methylmercury in food. EFSA J 2012. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2012.2985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 276] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
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Wennberg M, Strömberg U, Bergdahl IA, Jansson JH, Kauhanen J, Norberg M, Salonen JT, Skerfving S, Tuomainen TP, Vessby B, Virtanen JK. Myocardial infarction in relation to mercury and fatty acids from fish: a risk-benefit analysis based on pooled Finnish and Swedish data in men. Am J Clin Nutr 2012; 96:706-13. [PMID: 22894940 DOI: 10.3945/ajcn.111.033795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to methylmercury from fish has been associated with increased risk of myocardial infarction (MI) in some studies. At the same time, marine n-3 (omega-3) PUFAs are an inherent constituent of fish and are regarded as beneficial. To our knowledge, no risk-benefit model on the basis of data on methylmercury, PUFA, and MI risk has yet been presented. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to describe how exposure to both marine n-3 PUFAs and methylmercury relates to MI risk by using data from Finland and Sweden. DESIGN We used matched case-control sets from Sweden and Finland that were nested in population-based, prospective cohort studies. We included 361 men with MI from Sweden and 211 men with MI from Finland. MI risk was estimated in a logistic regression model with the amount of mercury in hair (hair-Hg) and concentrations of n-3 PUFAs (EPA and DHA) in serum (S-PUFA) as independent variables. RESULTS The median hair-Hg was 0.57 μg/g in Swedish and 1.32 μg/g in Finnish control subjects, whereas the percentage of S-PUFA was 4.21% and 3.83%, respectively. In combined analysis, hair-Hg was associated with higher (P = 0.005) and S-PUFA with lower (P = 0.011) MI risk. Our model indicated that even a small change in fish consumption (ie, by increasing S-PUFA by 1%) would prevent 7% of MIs, despite a small increase in mercury exposure. However, at a high hair-Hg, the modeled beneficial effect of PUFA on MI risk was counteracted by methylmercury. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to methylmercury was associated with increased risk of MI, and higher S-PUFA concentrations were associated with decreased risk of MI. Thus, MI risk may be reduced by the consumption of fish high in PUFAs and low in methylmercury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Wennberg
- Departments of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.
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Wang D, Curtis A, Papp AC, Koletar SL, Para MF. Polymorphism in glutamate cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC) is associated with sulfamethoxazole-induced hypersensitivity in HIV/AIDS patients. BMC Med Genomics 2012; 5:32. [PMID: 22824134 PMCID: PMC3418550 DOI: 10.1186/1755-8794-5-32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2012] [Accepted: 07/23/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sulfamethoxazole (SMX) is a commonly used antibiotic for prevention of infectious diseases associated with HIV/AIDS and immune-compromised states. SMX-induced hypersensitivity is an idiosyncratic cutaneous drug reaction with genetic components. Here, we tested association of candidate genes involved in SMX bioactivation and antioxidant defense with SMX-induced hypersensitivity. Results Seventy seven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 14 candidate genes were genotyped and assessed for association with SMX-induced hypersensitivity, in a cohort of 171 HIV/AIDS patients. SNP rs761142 T > G, in glutamate cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC), was significantly associated with SMX-induced hypersensitivity, with an adjusted p value of 0.045. This result was replicated in a second cohort of 249 patients (p = 0.025). In the combined cohort, heterozygous and homozygous carriers of the minor G allele were at increased risk of developing hypersensitivity (GT vs TT, odds ratio = 2.2, 95% CL 1.4-3.7, p = 0.0014; GG vs TT, odds ratio = 3.3, 95% CL 1.6 – 6.8, p = 0.0010). Each minor allele copy increased risk of developing hypersensitivity 1.9 fold (95% CL 1.4 – 2.6, p = 0.00012). Moreover, in 91 human livers and 84 B-lymphocytes samples, SNP rs761142 homozygous G allele carriers expressed significantly less GCLC mRNA than homozygous TT carriers (p < 0.05). Conclusions rs761142 in GCLC was found to be associated with reduced GCLC mRNA expression and with SMX-induced hypersensitivity in HIV/AIDS patients. Catalyzing a critical step in glutathione biosynthesis, GCLC may play a broad role in idiosyncratic drug reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danxin Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Program in Pharmacogenomics, School of Biomedical Science, College of Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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Johansson I, Nilsson LM, Stegmayr B, Boman K, Hallmans G, Winkvist A. Associations among 25-year trends in diet, cholesterol and BMI from 140,000 observations in men and women in Northern Sweden. Nutr J 2012; 11:40. [PMID: 22686621 PMCID: PMC3489616 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2891-11-40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2012] [Accepted: 05/01/2012] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the 1970s, men in northern Sweden had among the highest prevalences of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) worldwide. An intervention program combining population- and individual-oriented activities was initiated in 1985. Concurrently, collection of information on medical risk factors, lifestyle and anthropometry started. Today, these data make up one of the largest databases in the world on diet intake in a population-based sample, both in terms of sample size and follow-up period. The study examines trends in food and nutrient intake, serum cholesterol and body mass index (BMI) from 1986 to 2010 in northern Sweden. METHODS Cross-sectional information on self-reported food and nutrient intake and measured body weight, height, and serum cholesterol were compiled for over 140,000 observations. Trends and trend breaks over the 25-year period were evaluated for energy-providing nutrients, foods contributing to fat intake, serum cholesterol and BMI. RESULTS Reported intake of fat exhibited two significant trend breaks in both sexes: a decrease between 1986 and 1992 and an increase from 2002 (women) or 2004 (men). A reverse trend was noted for carbohydrates, whereas protein intake remained unchanged during the 25-year period. Significant trend breaks in intake of foods contributing to total fat intake were seen. Reported intake of wine increased sharply for both sexes (more so for women) and export beer increased for men. BMI increased continuously for both sexes, whereas serum cholesterol levels decreased during 1986 - 2004, remained unchanged until 2007 and then began to rise. The increase in serum cholesterol coincided with the increase in fat intake, especially with intake of saturated fat and fats for spreading on bread and cooking. CONCLUSIONS Men and women in northern Sweden decreased their reported fat intake in the first 7 years (1986-1992) of an intervention program. After 2004 fat intake increased sharply for both genders, which coincided with introduction of a positive media support for low carbohydrate-high-fat (LCHF) diet. The decrease and following increase in cholesterol levels occurred simultaneously with the time trends in food selection, whereas a constant increase in BMI remained unaltered. These changes in risk factors may have important effects on primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lena Maria Nilsson
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine section of nutrition, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Kurt Boman
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine section of nutrition, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Department of Medicine, Skellefteå County Hospital, Skellefteå, Sweden
| | - Göran Hallmans
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine section of nutrition, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Anna Winkvist
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden
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Fretham SJ, Caito S, Martinez-Finley EJ, Aschner M. Mechanisms and Modifiers of Methylmercury-Induced Neurotoxicity. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2012; 1:32-38. [PMID: 27795823 DOI: 10.1039/c2tx20010d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurotoxic consequences of methylmercury (MeHg) exposure have long been known, however a complete understanding of the mechanisms underlying this toxicity is elusive. Recent epidemiological and experimental studies have provided many mechanistic insights, particularly into the contribution of genetic and environmental factors that interact with MeHg to modify toxicity. This review will outline cellular processes directly and indirectly affected by MeHg, including oxidative stress, cellular signaling and gene expression, and discuss genetic, environmental and nutritional factors capable of modifying MeHg toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Jb Fretham
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Pharmacology, and the Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Samuel Caito
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Pharmacology, and the Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Ebany J Martinez-Finley
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Pharmacology, and the Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Pharmacology, and the Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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