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Kim SY, Kim M, Lim YK, Baek SH, Kim JY, An KG, Hong S. First investigation of the temporal distribution of neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and the candidate causative microalgae along the South Sea Coast of Korea. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 478:135486. [PMID: 39151364 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
The neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA), produced by cyanobacteria and diatoms, has been implicated as an environmental risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases. This study first investigated the occurrence and monthly distributions of BMAA and its isomers, 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB) and N-2-aminoethylglycine (AEG), in phytoplankton and mussels from 11 sites along the South Sea Coast of Korea throughout 2021. These toxins were quantified using LC-MS/MS, revealing elevated BMAA concentrations from late autumn to spring, with phase lags observed between phytoplankton and mussels. The highest concentration of BMAA in phytoplankton was detected in November (mean: 1490 ng g-1 dry weight (dw)), while in mussels, it peaked in December (mean: 1240 ng g-1 dw). DAB was detected in phytoplankton but was absent in mussels, indicating limited bioaccumulation potential. In February, the peak mean DAB concentration in phytoplankton was 89 ng g-1 dw. AEG was not detected in any samples. Chlorophyll-a concentrations consistently showed an inverse correlation with BMAA concentrations in mussels throughout the year. Through correlation analysis, four diatom genera, Bacillaria, Hemiaulus, Odontella, and Pleurosigma, were identified as potential causative microalgae of BMAA. This study offers insights into identifying the causative microalgae for BMAA and informs future regulatory efforts regarding unmanaged biotoxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sea-Yong Kim
- Department of Marine Environmental Sciences & Institute of Marine Environmental Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Mungi Kim
- Department of Earth, Environmental & Space Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Kyun Lim
- Ecological Risk Research Department, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje 53201, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Ho Baek
- Ecological Risk Research Department, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje 53201, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Yoon Kim
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang-Guk An
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Seongjin Hong
- Department of Marine Environmental Sciences & Institute of Marine Environmental Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea; Department of Earth, Environmental & Space Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea.
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2
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Xiao Y, Hu L, Duan J, Che H, Wang W, Yuan Y, Xu J, Chen D, Zhao S. Polystyrene microplastics enhance microcystin-LR-induced cardiovascular toxicity and oxidative stress in zebrafish embryos. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 352:124022. [PMID: 38679130 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
The health risks associated with combined exposure to microplastics (MPs) and cyanobacteria toxins have gained increasing attention due to the large-scale prevalence of cyanobacterial blooms and accumulation of MPs in aquatic environments. Therefore, we explored the cardiovascular toxic effects of microcystin-LR (MC-LR, 1, 10, 100 μg/L) in the presence of 5 μm polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs, 100 μg/L) and 80 nm polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs, 100 μg/L) in zebrafish models. Embryos were exposed to certain PS-MPs and PS-NPs conditions in water between 3 h post-fertilization (hpf) and 168 hpf. Compared to MC-LR alone, a significant decrease in heart rate was observed as well as notable pericardial edema in the MC-LR + PS-MPs/NPs groups. At the same time, sinus venosus and bulbus arteriosus (SV-BA) distances were significantly increased. Furthermore, the addition of PS-MPs/NPs caused thrombosis in the caudal vein and more severe vascular damage in zebrafish larvae compared to MC-LR alone. Our findings revealed that combined exposure to PS-NPs and MC-LR could significantly decreased the expression of genes associated with cardiovascular development (myh6, nkx2.5, tnnt2a, and vegfaa), ATPase (atp1a3b, atp1b2b, atp2a1l, atp2b1a, and atp2b4), and the calcium channel (cacna1ab and ryr2a) compared to exposure to MC-LR alone. In addition, co-exposure with PS-MPs/NPs exacerbated the MC-LR-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, as well as the ROS-stimulated apoptosis and heightened inflammation. We also discovered that astaxanthin (ASTA) treatment partially attenuated these cardiovascular toxic effects. Our findings confirm that exposure to MC-LR and PS-MPs/NPs affects cardiovascular development through calcium signaling interference and ROS-induced cardiovascular cell apoptosis. This study highlights the potential environmental risks of the co-existence of MC-LR and PS-MPs/NPs for fetal health, particularly cardiovascular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchun Xiao
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Liwen Hu
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Jiayao Duan
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Huimin Che
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Wenxin Wang
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Yuan Yuan
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Jiayi Xu
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Daojun Chen
- School of Medical Technology, Anhui Medical College, Hefei, 230601, China
| | - Sujuan Zhao
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.
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3
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Drobac Backović D, Tokodi N. Cyanotoxins in food: Exposure assessment and health impact. Food Res Int 2024; 184:114271. [PMID: 38609248 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.114271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
The intricate nature of cyanotoxin exposure through food reveals a complex web of risks and uncertainties in our dietary choices. With the aim of starting to unravel this intricate nexus, a comprehensive review of 111 papers from the past two decades investigating cyanotoxin contamination in food was undertaken. It revealed a widespread occurrence of cyanotoxins in diverse food sources across 31 countries. Notably, 68% of the studies reported microcystin concentrations exceeding established Tolerable Daily Intake levels. Cyanotoxins were detected in muscles of many fish species, and while herbivorous fish exhibited the highest recorded concentration, omnivorous species displayed a higher propensity for cyanotoxin accumulation, exemplified by Oreochromis niloticus. Beyond fish, crustaceans and bivalves emerged as potent cyanotoxin accumulators. Gaps persist regarding contamination of terrestrial and exotic animals and their products, necessitating further exploration. Plant contamination under natural conditions remains underreported, yet evidence underscores irrigation-driven cyanotoxin accumulation, particularly affecting leafy vegetables. Finally, cyanobacterial-based food supplements often harbored cyanotoxins (57 % of samples were positive) warranting heightened scrutiny, especially for Aphanizomenon flos-aquae-based products. Uncertainties surround precise concentrations due to methodological variations (chemical and biochemical) and extraction limitations, along with the enigmatic fate of toxins during storage, processing, and digestion. Nonetheless, potential health consequences of cyanotoxin exposure via contaminated food include gastrointestinal and neurological disorders, organ damage (e.g. liver, kidneys, muscles), and even elevated cancer risks. While microcystins received significant attention, knowledge gaps persist regarding other cyanotoxins' accumulation, exposure, and effects, as well as combined exposure via multiple pathways. Intriguing and complex, cyanotoxin exposure through food beckons further research for our safer and healthier diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damjana Drobac Backović
- University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Sciences, Department of Biology and Ecology, Trg Dositeja Obradovića 3, Novi Sad 21000, Serbia
| | - Nada Tokodi
- University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Sciences, Department of Biology and Ecology, Trg Dositeja Obradovića 3, Novi Sad 21000, Serbia; Jagiellonian University, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Laboratory of Metabolomics, Gronostajowa 7, Krakow 30387, Poland.
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4
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Li M, Qiu J, Yan G, Zheng X, Li A. How does the neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine exist in biological matrices and cause toxicity? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 922:171255. [PMID: 38417517 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
The neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) has been deemed as a risk factor for some neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/parkinsonism dementia complex (ALS/PDC). This possible link has been proved in some primate models and cell cultures with the appearance that BMAA exposure can cause excitotoxicity, formation of protein aggregates, and/or oxidative stress. The neurotoxin BMAA extensively exists in the environment and can be transferred through the food web to human beings. In this review, the occurrence, toxicological mechanisms, and characteristics of BMAA were comprehensively summarized, and proteins and peptides were speculated as its possible binding substances in biological matrices. It is difficult to compare the published data from previous studies due to the inconsistent analytical methods and components of BMAA. The binding characteristics of BMAA should be focused on to improve our understanding of its health risk to human health in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Jiangbing Qiu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Guowang Yan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Xianyao Zheng
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Aifeng Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China.
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Garamszegi SP, Brzostowicki DJ, Coyne TM, Vontell RT, Davis DA. TDP-43 and Alzheimer's Disease Pathology in the Brain of a Harbor Porpoise Exposed to the Cyanobacterial Toxin BMAA. Toxins (Basel) 2024; 16:42. [PMID: 38251257 PMCID: PMC10821503 DOI: 10.3390/toxins16010042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Cetaceans are well-regarded as sentinels for toxin exposure. Emerging studies suggest that cetaceans can also develop neuropathological changes associated with neurodegenerative disease. The occurrence of neuropathology makes cetaceans an ideal species for examining the impact of marine toxins on the brain across the lifespan. Here, we describe TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) proteinopathy and Alzheimer's disease (AD) neuropathological changes in a beached harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) that was exposed to a toxin produced by cyanobacteria called β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA). We found pathogenic TDP-43 cytoplasmic inclusions in neurons throughout the cerebral cortex, midbrain and brainstem. P62/sequestosome-1, responsible for the autophagy of misfolded proteins, was observed in the amygdala, hippocampus and frontal cortex. Genes implicated in AD and TDP-43 neuropathology such as APP and TARDBP were expressed in the brain. AD neuropathological changes such as amyloid-β plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, granulovacuolar degeneration and Hirano bodies were present in the hippocampus. These findings further support the development of progressive neurodegenerative disease in cetaceans and a potential causative link to cyanobacterial toxins. Climate change, nutrient pollution and industrial waste are increasing the frequency of harmful cyanobacterial blooms. Cyanotoxins like BMAA that are associated with neurodegenerative disease pose an increasing public health risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna P. Garamszegi
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Daniel J. Brzostowicki
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Thomas M. Coyne
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Regina T. Vontell
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - David A. Davis
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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Vasta R, Callegaro S, Sgambetterra S, Cabras S, Di Pede F, De Mattei F, Matteoni E, Grassano M, Bombaci A, De Marco G, Fuda G, Marchese G, Palumbo F, Canosa A, Mazzini L, De Marchi F, Moglia C, Manera U, Chiò A, Calvo A. Presymptomatic geographical distribution of ALS patients suggests the involvement of environmental factors in the disease pathogenesis. J Neurol 2023; 270:5475-5482. [PMID: 37491680 PMCID: PMC10576667 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-11888-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given that the pathogenetic process of ALS begins many years prior to its clinical onset, examining patients' residential histories may offer insights on the disease risk factors. Here, we analyzed the spatial distribution of a large ALS cohort in the 50 years preceding the disease onset. METHODS Data from the PARALS register were used. A spatial cluster analysis was performed at the time of disease onset and at 1-year intervals up to 50 years prior to that. RESULTS A total of 1124 patients were included. The analysis revealed a higher-incidence cluster in a large area (435,000 inhabitants) west of Turin. From 9 to 2 years before their onset, 105 cases were expected and 150 were observed, resulting in a relative risk of 1.49 (P = 0.04). We also found a surprising high number of patients pairs (51) and trios (3) who lived in the same dwelling while not being related. Noticeably, these occurrences were not observed in large dwellings as we would have expected. The probability of this occurring in smaller buildings only by chance was very low (P = 0.01 and P = 0.04 for pairs and trios, respectively). CONCLUSIONS We identified a higher-incidence ALS cluster in the years preceding the disease onset. The cluster area being densely populated, many exposures could have contributed to the high incidence ALS cluster, while we could not find a shared exposure among the dwellings where multiple patients had lived. However, these findings support that exogenous factors are likely involved in the ALS pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosario Vasta
- ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy.
| | - S Callegaro
- ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - S Sgambetterra
- Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - S Cabras
- ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
- International School of Advanced Studies, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - F Di Pede
- ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - F De Mattei
- ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - E Matteoni
- ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - M Grassano
- ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - A Bombaci
- ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, UCL, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - G De Marco
- ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - G Fuda
- ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - G Marchese
- ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - F Palumbo
- ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - A Canosa
- ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
- Neurology 1, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
- Institute of Cognitive Science and Technologies, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - L Mazzini
- ALS Center, Department of Neurology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Maggiore della Carità, and University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - F De Marchi
- ALS Center, Department of Neurology, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Maggiore della Carità, and University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - C Moglia
- ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
- Neurology 1, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - U Manera
- ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
- Neurology 1, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - A Chiò
- ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
- Neurology 1, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
- Institute of Cognitive Science and Technologies, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - A Calvo
- ALS Center, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini", University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
- Neurology 1, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
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Barney RE, Huang G, Gallagher TL, Tischbein M, DeWitt J, Martindale R, LaRochelle EMP, Tsongalis GJ, Stommel EW. Validation of a Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) Assay to Detect Cyanobacterial 16S rDNA in Human Lung Tissue. TOXICS 2023; 11:531. [PMID: 37368631 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11060531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Cyanobacteria produce a variety of secondary metabolites, including toxins that may contribute to the development of disease. Previous work was able to detect the presence of a cyanobacterial marker in human nasal and broncoalveolar lavage samples; however, it was not able to determine the quantification of the marker. To further research the relationship between cyanobacteria and human health, we validated a droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) assay to simultaneously detect the cyanobacterial 16S marker and a human housekeeping gene in human lung tissue samples. The ability to detect cyanobacteria in human samples will allow further research into the role cyanobacteria plays in human health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael E Barney
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pathology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Guohong Huang
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pathology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Torrey L Gallagher
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pathology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Maeve Tischbein
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Neurology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - John DeWitt
- Department of Pathology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA
| | - Rachel Martindale
- Department of Pathology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA
| | - Ethan M P LaRochelle
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pathology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Gregory J Tsongalis
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pathology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Elijah W Stommel
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Neurology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
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Zhang Y, Whalen JK, Cai C, Shan K, Zhou H. Harmful cyanobacteria-diatom/dinoflagellate blooms and their cyanotoxins in freshwaters: A nonnegligible chronic health and ecological hazard. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 233:119807. [PMID: 36871382 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.119807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Human and ecological health depends on the vitality of freshwater systems, but these are increasingly threatened by cyanotoxins released from harmful algal blooms (HABs). Periodic cyanotoxin production, although undesirable, may be tolerable when there is enough time for cyanotoxins to degrade and dissipate in the environment, but the year-round presence of these toxins will be a chronic health for humans and ecosystems. The purpose of this critical review is to document the seasonal shifts of algal species and their ecophysiological acclimatation to dynamic environmental conditions. We discuss how these conditions will create successive occurrences of algal blooms and the release of cyanotoxins into freshwater. We first review the most common cyanotoxins, and evaluate the multiple ecological roles and physiological functions of these toxins for algae. Then, the annual recurring patterns HABs are considered in the context of global change, which demonstrates the capacity for algal blooms to shift from seasonal to year-round growth regimes that are driven by abiotic and biotic factors, leading to chronic loading of freshwaters with cyanotoxins. At last, we illustrate the impacts of HABs on the environment by compiling four health issues and four ecology issues emanating from their presence in the that covers atmosphere, aquatic ecosystems and terrestrial ecosystems. Our study highlights the annual patterns of algal blooms, and proposes that a "perfect storm" of events is lurking that will cause the 'seasonal toxicity' to become a full-blown, 'chronic toxicity' in the context of the deterioration of HABs, highlighting a non-negligible chronic health and ecological hazard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Zhang
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Department of Natural Resource Science, McGill University, Macdonald Campus, 21,111 Lakeshore Road, Ste-Anne-de Bellevue, QC H9×3V9, Canada; Key Laboratory of Investigation and Monitoring, Protection and Utilization for Cultivated Land Resources, Ministry of Natural Resources, China.
| | - Joann K Whalen
- Department of Natural Resource Science, McGill University, Macdonald Campus, 21,111 Lakeshore Road, Ste-Anne-de Bellevue, QC H9×3V9, Canada
| | - Chen Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Kun Shan
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Big Data and Intelligent Computing, Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China, CAS Key Lab on Reservoir Environment, Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing 400714, China
| | - Hongxu Zhou
- Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, United States
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9
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Stipa G, Ancidoni A, Vanacore N, Bellomo G. Raw Water and ALS: A Unifying Hypothesis for the Environmental Agents Involved in ALS. Ann Neurosci 2023; 30:124-132. [PMID: 37706096 PMCID: PMC10496797 DOI: 10.1177/09727531221120358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Different studies identified the presence of several altered genes in familial and sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) forms. The experimental data, together with the epidemiological data, would seem to suggest the existence of molecular mechanisms (e.g., axonal transport) related to these genes, together with a susceptibility of the same genes to certain environmental factors that would therefore suggest an impact of the environment on the etiopathogenesis of ALS. In our review, we considered the most relevant environmental clusters around the world, collecting different hypotheses and underlining common environmental factors among the different clusters. Moreover, further epidemiological data identified a higher risk of ALS in professional athletes and, in particular, in soccer and football players. Despite this increased risk of ALS highlighted by the epidemiological evidence in aforementioned sports, the mechanisms remain unclear. At last, the use of raw water has been associated with ALS risk. The aim of the present review is to characterize a possible relationship between these clusters, to be explored in the context of the interaction between genetic and environmental factors on the etiopathogenesis of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Stipa
- Clinical Neurophysiology Division, Neuroscience Department, S. Maria University Hospital, Terni, Italy
| | - Antonio Ancidoni
- National Center for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, National Institute of Health (ISS), Roma, Italy
| | - Nicola Vanacore
- National Center for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, National Institute of Health (ISS), Roma, Italy
| | - Guido Bellomo
- National Center for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, National Institute of Health (ISS), Roma, Italy
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10
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Nugumanova G, Ponomarev ED, Askarova S, Fasler-Kan E, Barteneva NS. Freshwater Cyanobacterial Toxins, Cyanopeptides and Neurodegenerative Diseases. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:toxins15030233. [PMID: 36977124 PMCID: PMC10057253 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15030233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyanobacteria produce a wide range of structurally diverse cyanotoxins and bioactive cyanopeptides in freshwater, marine, and terrestrial ecosystems. The health significance of these metabolites, which include genotoxic- and neurotoxic agents, is confirmed by continued associations between the occurrence of animal and human acute toxic events and, in the long term, by associations between cyanobacteria and neurodegenerative diseases. Major mechanisms related to the neurotoxicity of cyanobacteria compounds include (1) blocking of key proteins and channels; (2) inhibition of essential enzymes in mammalian cells such as protein phosphatases and phosphoprotein phosphatases as well as new molecular targets such as toll-like receptors 4 and 8. One of the widely discussed implicated mechanisms includes a misincorporation of cyanobacterial non-proteogenic amino acids. Recent research provides evidence that non-proteinogenic amino acid BMAA produced by cyanobacteria have multiple effects on translation process and bypasses the proof-reading ability of the aminoacyl-tRNA-synthetase. Aberrant proteins generated by non-canonical translation may be a factor in neuronal death and neurodegeneration. We hypothesize that the production of cyanopeptides and non-canonical amino acids is a more general mechanism, leading to mistranslation, affecting protein homeostasis, and targeting mitochondria in eukaryotic cells. It can be evolutionarily ancient and initially developed to control phytoplankton communities during algal blooms. Outcompeting gut symbiotic microorganisms may lead to dysbiosis, increased gut permeability, a shift in blood-brain-barrier functionality, and eventually, mitochondrial dysfunction in high-energy demanding neurons. A better understanding of the interaction between cyanopeptides metabolism and the nervous system will be crucial to target or to prevent neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galina Nugumanova
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Eugene D Ponomarev
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Sholpan Askarova
- Center for Life Sciences, National Laboratory Astana, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Elizaveta Fasler-Kan
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital, Inselspital Bern, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Natasha S Barteneva
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
- The Environment & Resource Efficiency Cluster (EREC), Nazarbayev University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
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11
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Garamszegi SP, Banack SA, Duque LL, Metcalf JS, Stommel EW, Cox PA, Davis DA. Detection of β-N-methylamino-l-alanine in postmortem olfactory bulbs of Alzheimer's disease patients using UHPLC-MS/MS: An autopsy case-series study. Toxicol Rep 2023; 10:87-96. [PMID: 36691605 PMCID: PMC9860447 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2023.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Cyanobacterial blooms produce toxins that may become aerosolized, increasing health risks through inhalation exposures. Health related effects on the lower respiratory tract caused by these toxins are becoming better understood. However, nasal exposures to cyanotoxins remain understudied, especially for those with neurotoxic potential. Here, we present a case series study evaluating exposure to β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA), a cyanobacterial toxin linked to neurodegenerative disease, in postmortem olfactory tissues of individuals with varying stages of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Methods Olfactory bulb (Ob) tissues were collected during autopsies performed between 2014 and 2017 from six South Florida brain donors (ages 47-78) with residences less than 140 m from a freshwater body. A triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method validated according to peer AOAC International guidelines was used to detect BMAA and two BMAA isomers: 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (2,4-DAB) and N-(2-aminoethyl)glycine (AEG). Quantitative PCR was performed on the contralateral Ob to evaluate the relative expression of genes related to proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6 & IL-18), apoptotic pathways (CASP1 & BCL2), and mitochondrial stress (IRF1 & PINK1). Immunohistochemistry was also performed on the adjacent olfactory tract (Ot) to evaluate co-occurring neuropathology with BMAA tissue concentration. Results BMAA was detected in the Ob of all cases at a median concentration of 30.4 ng/g (Range <LLOQ - 488.4 ng/g). Structural isomers were also detected with median concentrations of 28.8 ng/g (AEG) and 103.6 ng/g (2,4-DAB). In addition, we found that cases with BMAA tissue concentrations above the <LLOQ also displayed increased expression of IL-6 (3.3-fold), CASP1 (1.7-fold), and IRF1 (1.6-fold). Reactive microglial, astrogliosis, myelinopathy, and neuronopathy of axonal processes in the Ot were also observed in cases with higher BMAA tissue concentrations. Conclusion Our study demonstrates that the cyanobacterial toxin BMAA can be detected in the olfactory pathway, a window to the brain, and its presence may increase the occurrence of proinflammatory cytokines, reactive glia, and toxicity to axonal processes. Further studies will be needed to evaluate BMAA's toxicity via this route of exposure and factors that increase susceptibility.
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Key Words
- 2,4-DAB, 2,4-diaminobutyric acid
- AD, Alzheimer's disease
- AEG, N-(2-aminoethyl)glycine
- ALS/PDC, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/ parkinsonism dementia complex
- BMAA, β-N-methylamino-l-alanine
- CBs, Cyanobacterial blooms
- Cyanobacteria
- Cyanotoxin
- IL-6
- Inflammation
- OD, Olfactory dysfunction
- Ob, Olfactory bulb
- Olfactory dysfunction
- Ot, Olfactory tract
- UHPLC-MS/MS, Ultra-performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna P. Garamszegi
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Sandra Anne Banack
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY 83001, USA
| | - Linda L. Duque
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - James S. Metcalf
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY 83001, USA
| | - Elijah W. Stommel
- Department of Neurology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center Department of Neurology, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Paul Alan Cox
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY 83001, USA
| | - David A. Davis
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Corresponding author.
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12
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Saucier D, Registe PPW, Bélanger M, O'Connell C. Urbanization, air pollution, and water pollution: Identification of potential environmental risk factors associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis using systematic reviews. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1108383. [PMID: 36970522 PMCID: PMC10030603 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1108383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Despite decades of research, causes of ALS remain unclear. To evaluate recent hypotheses of plausible environmental factors, the aim of this study was to synthesize and appraise literature on the potential associations between the surrounding environment, including urbanization, air pollution and water pollution, and ALS. Methods We conducted a series (n = 3) of systematic reviews in PubMed and Scopus to identify epidemiological studies assessing relationships between urbanization, air pollution and water pollution with the development of ALS. Results The combined search strategy led to the inclusion of 44 articles pertaining to at least one exposure of interest. Of the 25 included urbanization studies, four of nine studies on living in rural areas and three of seven studies on living in more highly urbanized/dense areas found positive associations to ALS. There were also three of five studies for exposure to electromagnetic fields and/or proximity to powerlines that found positive associations to ALS. Three case-control studies for each of diesel exhaust and nitrogen dioxide found positive associations with the development of ALS, with the latter showing a dose-response in one study. Three studies for each of high selenium content in drinking water and proximity to lakes prone to cyanobacterial blooms also found positive associations to ALS. Conclusion Whereas markers of air and water pollution appear as potential risk factors for ALS, results are mixed for the role of urbanization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Saucier
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
- Center de formation médicale du Nouveau-Brunswick, Moncton, NB, Canada
- *Correspondence: Daniel Saucier
| | - Pierre Philippe Wilson Registe
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
- Center de formation médicale du Nouveau-Brunswick, Moncton, NB, Canada
| | - Mathieu Bélanger
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
- Center de formation médicale du Nouveau-Brunswick, Moncton, NB, Canada
| | - Colleen O'Connell
- Stan Cassidy Center for Rehabilitation, Fredericton, NB, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick, Saint John, NB, Canada
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13
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Lopicic S, Svirčev Z, Palanački Malešević T, Kopitović A, Ivanovska A, Meriluoto J. Environmental Neurotoxin β- N-Methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) as a Widely Occurring Putative Pathogenic Factor in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Microorganisms 2022; 10:2418. [PMID: 36557671 PMCID: PMC9781992 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10122418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present review we have discussed the occurrence of β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and its natural isomers, and the organisms and sample types in which the toxin(s) have been detected. Further, the review discusses general pathogenic mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases, and how modes of action of BMAA fit in those mechanisms. The biogeography of BMAA occurrence presented here contributes to the planning of epidemiological research based on the geographical distribution of BMAA and human exposure. Analysis of BMAA mechanisms in relation to pathogenic processes of neurodegeneration is used to critically assess the potential significance of the amino acid as well as to identify gaps in our understanding. Taken together, these two approaches provide the basis for the discussion on the potential role of BMAA as a secondary factor in neurodegenerative diseases, the rationale for further research and possible directions the research can take, which are outlined in the conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srdjan Lopicic
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića Starijeg 8, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Zorica Svirčev
- Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Trg Dositeja Obradovića 2, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Biochemistry, Åbo Akademi University, Tykistökatu 6A, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Tamara Palanački Malešević
- Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Trg Dositeja Obradovića 2, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Aleksandar Kopitović
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Hajduk Veljkova 3, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Aleksandra Ivanovska
- Innovation Center of the Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade, Karnegijeva 4, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jussi Meriluoto
- Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Trg Dositeja Obradovića 2, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Biochemistry, Åbo Akademi University, Tykistökatu 6A, 20520 Turku, Finland
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Cabrita A, Medeiros AM, Pereira T, Rodrigues AS, Kranendonk M, Mendes CS. Motor dysfunction in Drosophila melanogaster as a biomarker for developmental neurotoxicity. iScience 2022; 25:104541. [PMID: 35769875 PMCID: PMC9234254 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Adequate alternatives to conventional animal testing are needed to study developmental neurotoxicity (DNT). Here, we used kinematic analysis to assess DNT of known (toluene (TOL) and chlorpyrifos (CPS)) and putative (β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA)) neurotoxic compounds. Drosophila melanogaster was exposed to these compounds during development and evaluated for survival and adult kinematic parameters using the FlyWalker system, a kinematics evaluation method. At concentrations that do not induce general toxicity, the solvent DMSO had a significant effect on kinematic parameters. Moreover, while TOL did not significantly induce lethality or kinematic dysfunction, CPS not only induced developmental lethality but also significantly impaired coordination in comparison to DMSO. Interestingly, BMAA, which was not lethal during development, induced motor decay in young adult animals, phenotypically resembling aged flies, an effect later attenuated upon aging. Furthermore, BMAA induced abnormal development of leg motor neuron projections. Our results suggest that our kinematic approach can assess potential DNT of chemical compounds. Alternatives to mammalian testing are needed to detect developmental neurotoxicity The pesticide chlorpyrifos causes partial lethality and motor dysfunction Non-lethal levels of BMAA induce motor dysfunction in a dose-dependent manner Kinematic profiling of adult Drosophila can identify developmental neurotoxicity
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cabrita
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Alexandra M. Medeiros
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Telmo Pereira
- NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - António Sebastião Rodrigues
- ToxOmics, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Michel Kranendonk
- ToxOmics, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Corresponding author
| | - César S. Mendes
- iNOVA4Health, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Corresponding author
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Perceived Intensification in Harmful Algal Blooms Is a Wave of Cumulative Threat to the Aquatic Ecosystems. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11060852. [PMID: 35741373 PMCID: PMC9220063 DOI: 10.3390/biology11060852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are a serious threat to aquatic environments. The intensive expansion of HABs across the world is a warning signal of environmental deterioration. Global climatic change enforced variations in environmental factors causing stressed environments in aquatic ecosystems that favor the occurrence, distribution, and persistence of HABs. Perceived intensification in HABs increases toxin production, affecting the ecological quality as well as serious consequences on organisms including humans. This review outlines the causes and impacts of harmful algal blooms, including algal toxicity, grazing defense, management, control measures, emerging technologies, and their limitations for controlling HABs in aquatic ecosystems. Abstract Aquatic pollution is considered a major threat to sustainable development across the world, and deterioration of aquatic ecosystems is caused usually by harmful algal blooms (HABs). In recent times, HABs have gained attention from scientists to better understand these phenomena given that these blooms are increasing in intensity and distribution with considerable impacts on aquatic ecosystems. Many exogenous factors such as variations in climatic patterns, eutrophication, wind blowing, dust storms, and upwelling of water currents form these blooms. Globally, the HAB formation is increasing the toxicity in the natural water sources, ultimately leading the deleterious and hazardous effects on the aquatic fauna and flora. This review summarizes the types of HABs with their potential effects, toxicity, grazing defense, human health impacts, management, and control of these harmful entities. This review offers a systematic approach towards the understanding of HABs, eliciting to rethink the increasing threat caused by HABs in aquatic ecosystems across the world. Therefore, to mitigate this increasing threat to aquatic environments, advanced scientific research in ecology and environmental sciences should be prioritized.
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Courtier A, Potheret D, Giannoni P. Environmental bacteria as triggers to brain disease: Possible mechanisms of toxicity and associated human risk. Life Sci 2022; 304:120689. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Zakharova MN, Bakulin IS, Abramova AA. Toxic Damage to Motor Neurons. NEUROCHEM J+ 2021. [DOI: 10.1134/s1819712421040164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstract—Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a multifactor disease in the development of which both genetic and environmental factors play a role. Specifically, the effects of organic and inorganic toxic substances can result in an increased risk of ALS development and the acceleration of disease progression. It was described that some toxins can induce potentially curable ALS-like syndromes. In this case, the specific treatment for the prevention of the effects of the toxic factor may result in positive clinical dynamics. In this article, we review the main types of toxins that can damage motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord leading to the development of the clinical manifestation of ALS, briefly present historical data on studies on the role of toxic substances, and describe the main mechanisms of the pathogenesis of motor neuron disease associated with their action.
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Longinetti E, Pupillo E, Belometti C, Bianchi E, Poloni M, Fang F, Beghi E. Geographical clusters of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and the Bradford Hill criteria. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2021; 23:329-343. [PMID: 34565247 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2021.1980891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
With the aim of shedding further light on the role of environmental factors in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) etiology, we hereby conducted a historical narrative review to critically appraise the published reports on ALS geographical clusters using the modern interpretation of the Bradford Hill criteria for causation. Our research hypothesis was that the more criteria were met, the greater was the evidence supporting a causal association. We found that cluster studies that met the greatest number of Bradford's Hill criteria regarded the non-protein amino acid β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (L-BMAA) and exposure to metals and minerals, but the evidence for causation was at best moderate and was poor for other environmental factors. This defective picture might be attributed not only to the methodological approach adopted by published studies, but also to the inherent difficulties in the application of Bradford Hill criteria, due to the complexity of the disease phenotype and the underlying pathogenic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Longinetti
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elisabetta Pupillo
- Department of Neuroscience, Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milan, Italy, and
| | - Chiara Belometti
- Department of Neuroscience, Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milan, Italy, and
| | - Elisa Bianchi
- Department of Neuroscience, Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milan, Italy, and
| | - Marco Poloni
- Department of Neuroscience, Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milan, Italy, and
| | - Fang Fang
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ettore Beghi
- Department of Neuroscience, Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Milan, Italy, and
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Cyanotoxins and the Nervous System. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13090660. [PMID: 34564664 PMCID: PMC8472772 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13090660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyanobacteria are capable of producing a wide range of bioactive compounds with many considered to be toxins. Although there are a number of toxicological outcomes with respect to cyanobacterial exposure, this review aims to examine those which affect the central nervous system (CNS) or have neurotoxicological properties. Such exposures can be acute or chronic, and we detail issues concerning CNS entry, detection and remediation. Exposure can occur through a variety of media but, increasingly, exposure through air via inhalation may have greater significance and requires further investigation. Even though cyanobacterial toxins have traditionally been classified based on their primary mode of toxicity, increasing evidence suggests that some also possess neurotoxic properties and include known cyanotoxins and unknown compounds. Furthermore, chronic long-term exposure to these compounds is increasingly being identified as adversely affecting human health.
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20
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Heil CA, Muni-Morgan AL. Florida’s Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) Problem: Escalating Risks to Human, Environmental and Economic Health With Climate Change. Front Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.646080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) pose unique risks to the citizens, stakeholders, visitors, environment and economy of the state of Florida. Florida has been historically subjected to reoccurring blooms of the toxic marine dinoflagellate Karenia brevis (C. C. Davis) G. Hansen & Moestrup since at least first contact with explorers in the 1500’s. However, ongoing immigration of more than 100,000 people year–1 into the state, elevated population densities in coastal areas with attendant rapid, often unregulated development, coastal eutrophication, and climate change impacts (e.g., increasing hurricane severity, increases in water temperature, ocean acidification and sea level rise) has likely increased the occurrence of other HABs, both freshwater and marine, within the state as well as the number of people impacted by these blooms. Currently, over 75 freshwater, estuarine, coastal and marine HAB species are routinely monitored by state agencies. While only blooms of K. brevis, the dinoflagellate Pyrodinium bahamense (Böhm) Steidinger, Tester, and Taylor and the diatom Pseudo-nitzschia spp. have resulted in closure of commercial shellfish beds, other HAB species, including freshwater and marine cyanobacteria, pose either imminent or unknown risks to human, environmental and economic health. HAB related human health risks can be classified into those related to consumption of contaminated shellfish and finfish, consumption of or contact with bloom or toxin contaminated water or exposure to aerosolized HAB toxins. While acute human illnesses resulting from consumption of brevetoxin-, saxitoxin-, and domoic acid-contaminated commercial shellfish have been minimized by effective monitoring and regulation, illnesses due to unregulated toxin exposures, e.g., ciguatoxins and cyanotoxins, are not well documented or understood. Aerosolized HAB toxins potentially impact the largest number of people within Florida. While short-term (days to weeks) impacts of aerosolized brevetoxin exposure are well documented (e.g., decreased respiratory function for at-risk subgroups such as asthmatics), little is known of longer term (>1 month) impacts of exposure or the risks posed by aerosolized cyanotoxin [e.g., microcystin, β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA)] exposure. Environmental risks of K. brevis blooms are the best studied of Florida HABs and include acute exposure impacts such as significant dies-offs of fish, marine mammals, seabirds and turtles, as well as negative impacts on larval and juvenile stages of many biota. When K. brevis blooms are present, brevetoxins can be found throughout the water column and are widespread in both pelagic and benthic biota. The presence of brevetoxins in living tissue of both fish and marine mammals suggests that food web transfer of these toxins is occurring, resulting in toxin transport beyond the spatial and temporal range of the bloom such that impacts of these toxins may occur in areas not regularly subjected to blooms. Climate change impacts, including temperature effects on cell metabolism, shifting ocean circulation patterns and changes in HAB species range and bloom duration, may exacerbate these dynamics. Secondary HAB related environmental impacts are also possible due to hypoxia and anoxia resulting from elevated bloom biomass and/or the decomposition of HAB related mortalities. Economic risks related to HABs in Florida are diverse and impact multiple stakeholder groups. Direct costs related to human health impacts (e.g., increased hospital visits) as well as recreational and commercial fisheries can be significant, especially with wide-spread sustained HABs. Recreational and tourism-based industries which sustain a significant portion of Florida’s economy are especially vulnerable to both direct (e.g., declines in coastal hotel occupancy rates and restaurant and recreational users) and indirect (e.g., negative publicity impacts, associated job losses) impacts from HABs. While risks related to K. brevis blooms are established, Florida also remains susceptible to future HABs due to large scale freshwater management practices, degrading water quality, potential transport of HABs between freshwater and marine systems and the state’s vulnerability to climate change impacts.
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Trout‐Haney JV, Cottingham KL. Microcystins in planktonic and benthic food web components from Greenlandic lakes. Ecosphere 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.3539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica V. Trout‐Haney
- Graduate Program in Ecology, Evolution, Environment and Society Life Sciences Center Dartmouth College 78 College Street Hanover New Hampshire03755USA
- Department of Biological Sciences Life Sciences Center Dartmouth College 78 College Street Hanover New Hampshire03755USA
| | - Kathryn L. Cottingham
- Graduate Program in Ecology, Evolution, Environment and Society Life Sciences Center Dartmouth College 78 College Street Hanover New Hampshire03755USA
- Department of Biological Sciences Life Sciences Center Dartmouth College 78 College Street Hanover New Hampshire03755USA
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Wang C, Yan C, Qiu J, Liu C, Yan Y, Ji Y, Wang G, Chen H, Li Y, Li A. Food web biomagnification of the neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine in a diatom-dominated marine ecosystem in China. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 404:124217. [PMID: 33129020 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.124217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) reported in some cyanobacteria and eukaryote microalgae is a cause of concern due to its potential risk of human neurodegenerative diseases. Here, BMAA distribution in phytoplankton, zooplankton, and other marine organisms was investigated in Jiaozhou Bay, China, a diatom-dominated marine ecosystem, during four seasons in 2019. Results showed that BMAA was biomagnified in the food web from phytoplankton to higher trophic levels. Trophic magnification factors (TMFs) for zooplankton, bivalve mollusks, carnivorous crustaceans and carnivorous gastropod mollusks were ca. 4.58, 30.1, 42.5, and 74.4, respectively. Putative identification of β-amino-N-methylalanine (BAMA), an isomer of BMAA, was frequently detected in phytoplankton samples. A total of 56 diatom strains of the genera Pseudo-nitzschia, Thalassiosira, Chaetoceros, Planktoniella, and Minidiscus isolated from the Chinese coast were cultured in the laboratory, among which 21 strains contained BMAA mainly in precipitated bound form at toxin concentrations ranging from 0.11 to 3.95 µg/g dry weight. Only 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB) but not BMAA or BAMA was detected in seven species of bacteria isolated from the gut of gastropod Neverita didyma, suggesting that this benthic vector of BMAA may have accumulated this compound via trophic transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Chen Yan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Jiangbing Qiu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Chao Liu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Yeju Yan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Ying Ji
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Guixiang Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Hongju Chen
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China
| | - Yang Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Healthy and Safe Aquaculture, College of Life Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631, China
| | - Aifeng Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ocean University of China, Ministry of Education, Qingdao 266100, China.
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23
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Ra D, Sa B, Sl B, Js M, Sj M, DA D, Ew S, O K, Eb B, Ad C, Vx T, Gg G, Pa C, Dc M, Wg B. Is Exposure to BMAA a Risk Factor for Neurodegenerative Diseases? A Response to a Critical Review of the BMAA Hypothesis. Neurotox Res 2021; 39:81-106. [PMID: 33547590 PMCID: PMC7904546 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-020-00302-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In a literature survey, Chernoff et al. (2017) dismissed the hypothesis that chronic exposure to β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) may be a risk factor for progressive neurodegenerative disease. They question the growing scientific literature that suggests the following: (1) BMAA exposure causes ALS/PDC among the indigenous Chamorro people of Guam; (2) Guamanian ALS/PDC shares clinical and neuropathological features with Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and ALS; (3) one possible mechanism for protein misfolds is misincorporation of BMAA into proteins as a substitute for L-serine; and (4) chronic exposure to BMAA through diet or environmental exposures to cyanobacterial blooms can cause neurodegenerative disease. We here identify multiple errors in their critique including the following: (1) their review selectively cites the published literature; (2) the authors reported favorably on HILIC methods of BMAA detection while the literature shows significant matrix effects and peak coelution in HILIC that may prevent detection and quantification of BMAA in cyanobacteria; (3) the authors build alternative arguments to the BMAA hypothesis, rather than explain the published literature which, to date, has been unable to refute the BMAA hypothesis; and (4) the authors erroneously attribute methods to incorrect studies, indicative of a failure to carefully consider all relevant publications. The lack of attention to BMAA research begins with the review's title which incorrectly refers to BMAA as a "non-essential" amino acid. Research regarding chronic exposure to BMAA as a cause of human neurodegenerative diseases is emerging and requires additional resources, validation, and research. Here, we propose strategies for improvement in the execution and reporting of analytical methods and the need for additional and well-executed inter-lab comparisons for BMAA quantitation. We emphasize the need for optimization and validation of analytical methods to ensure that they are fit-for-purpose. Although there remain gaps in the literature, an increasingly large body of data from multiple independent labs using orthogonal methods provides increasing evidence that chronic exposure to BMAA may be a risk factor for neurological illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dunlop Ra
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY, USA.
| | - Banack Sa
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY, USA
| | - Bishop Sl
- Lewis Research Group, Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Metcalf Js
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY, USA
| | - Murch Sj
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Davis DA
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Stommel Ew
- Department of Neurology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Karlsson O
- Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Brittebo Eb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Tan Vx
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie University, Ryde, Australia
| | - Guillemin Gg
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Macquarie University, Ryde, Australia
| | - Cox Pa
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Jackson, WY, USA
| | - Mash Dc
- Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Bradley Wg
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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24
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Martin RM, Bereman MS, Marsden KC. BMAA and MCLR Interact to Modulate Behavior and Exacerbate Molecular Changes Related to Neurodegeneration in Larval Zebrafish. Toxicol Sci 2021; 179:251-261. [PMID: 33295630 PMCID: PMC8502428 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfaa178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to toxins produced by cyanobacteria (ie, cyanotoxins) is an emerging health concern due to their increasing prevalence and previous associations with neurodegenerative diseases including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the neurotoxic effects of a mixture of two co-occurring cyanotoxins, β-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) and microcystin leucine and arginine (MCLR), using the larval zebrafish model. We combined high-throughput behavior-based toxicity assays with discovery proteomic techniques to identify behavioral and molecular changes following 6 days of exposure. Although neither toxin caused mortality, morphological defects, nor altered general locomotor behavior in zebrafish larvae, both toxins increased acoustic startle sensitivity in a dose-dependent manner by at least 40% (p < .0001). Furthermore, startle sensitivity was enhanced by an additional 40% in larvae exposed to the BMAA/MCLR mixture relative to those exposed to the individual toxins. Supporting these behavioral results, our proteomic analysis revealed a 4-fold increase in the number of differentially expressed proteins in the mixture-exposed group. Additionally, prediction analysis reveals activation and/or inhibition of 8 enriched canonical pathways (enrichment p-value < .01; z-score≥|2|), including ILK, Rho Family GTPase, RhoGDI, and calcium signaling pathways, which have been implicated in neurodegeneration. We also found that expression of TDP-43, of which cytoplasmic aggregates are a hallmark of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis pathology, was significantly upregulated by 5.7-fold following BMAA/MCLR mixture exposure. Together, our results emphasize the importance of including mixtures of cyanotoxins when investigating the link between environmental cyanotoxins and neurodegeneration as we reveal that BMAA and MCLR interact in vivo to enhance neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubia M Martin
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, USA
| | - Michael S Bereman
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, USA
| | - Kurt C Marsden
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, USA
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25
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Plaas HE, Paerl HW. Toxic Cyanobacteria: A Growing Threat to Water and Air Quality. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:44-64. [PMID: 33334098 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c06653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The global expansion of harmful cyanobacterial blooms (CyanoHABs) poses an increasing threat to public health. CyanoHABs are characterized by the production of toxic metabolites known as cyanotoxins. Human exposure to cyanotoxins is challenging to forecast, and perhaps the least understood exposure route is via inhalation. While the aerosolization of toxins from marine harmful algal blooms (HABs) has been well documented, the aerosolization of cyanotoxins in freshwater systems remains understudied. In recent years, spray aerosol (SA) produced in the airshed of the Laurentian Great Lakes (United States and Canada) has been characterized, suggesting that freshwater systems may impact atmospheric aerosol loading more than previously understood. Therefore, further investigation regarding the impact of CyanoHABs on human respiratory health is warranted. This review examines current research on the incorporation of cyanobacterial cells and cyanotoxins into SA of aquatic ecosystems which experience HABs. We present an overview of cyanotoxin fate in the environment, biological incorporation into SA, existing data on cyanotoxins in SA, relevant collection methods, and adverse health outcomes associated with cyanotoxin inhalation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haley E Plaas
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Institute of Marine Sciences, Morehead City, NC 28557, United States
| | - Hans W Paerl
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Institute of Marine Sciences, Morehead City, NC 28557, United States
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26
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Pierozan P, Cattani D, Karlsson O. Hippocampal neural stem cells are more susceptible to the neurotoxin BMAA than primary neurons: effects on apoptosis, cellular differentiation, neurite outgrowth, and DNA methylation. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:910. [PMID: 33099583 PMCID: PMC7585576 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-03093-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Developmental exposure to the environmental neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA), a proposed risk factor for neurodegenerative disease, can induce long-term cognitive impairments and neurodegeneration in rats. While rodent studies have demonstrated a low transfer of BMAA to the adult brain, this toxin is capable to cross the placental barrier and accumulate in the fetal brain. Here, we investigated the differential susceptibility of primary neuronal cells and neural stem cells from fetal rat hippocampus to BMAA toxicity. Exposure to 250 µM BMAA induced cell death in neural stem cells through caspase-independent apoptosis, while the proliferation of primary neurons was reduced only at 3 mM BMAA. At the lowest concentrations tested (50 and 100 µM), BMAA disrupted neural stem cell differentiation and impaired neurite development in neural stem cell-derived neurons (e.g., reduced neurite length, the number of processes and branches per cell). BMAA induced no alterations of the neurite outgrowth in primary neurons. This demonstrates that neural stem cells are more susceptible to BMAA exposure than primary neurons. Importantly, the changes induced by BMAA in neural stem cells were mitotically inherited to daughter cells. The persistent nature of the BMAA-induced effects may be related to epigenetic alterations that interfere with the neural stem cell programming, as BMAA exposure reduced the global DNA methylation in the cells. These findings provide mechanistic understanding of how early-life exposure to BMAA may lead to adverse long-term consequences, and potentially predispose for neurodevelopmental disorders or neurodegenerative disease later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Pierozan
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, 114 18, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Daiane Cattani
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, 114 18, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Oskar Karlsson
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, 114 18, Stockholm, Sweden.
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27
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Western Pacific ALS-PDC: Evidence implicating cycad genotoxins. J Neurol Sci 2020; 419:117185. [PMID: 33190068 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2020.117185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Parkinsonism-Dementia Complex (ALS-PDC) is a disappearing neurodegenerative disorder of apparent environmental origin formerly hyperendemic among Chamorros of Guam-USA, Japanese residents of the Kii Peninsula, Honshu Island, Japan and Auyu-Jakai linguistic groups of Papua-Indonesia on the island of New Guinea. The most plausible etiology is exposure to genotoxins in seed of neurotoxic cycad plants formerly used for food and/or medicine. Primary suspicion falls on methylazoxymethanol (MAM), the aglycone of cycasin and on the non-protein amino acid β-N-methylamino-L-alanine, both of which are metabolized to formaldehyde. Human and animal studies suggest: (a) exposures occurred early in life and sometimes during late fetal brain development, (b) clinical expression of neurodegenerative disease appeared years or decades later, and (c) pathological changes in various tissues indicate the disease was not confined to the CNS. Experimental evidence points to toxic molecular mechanisms involving DNA damage, epigenetic changes, transcriptional mutagenesis, neuronal cell-cycle reactivation and perturbation of the ubiquitin-proteasome system that led to polyproteinopathy and culminated in neuronal degeneration. Lessons learned from research on ALS-PDC include: (a) familial disease may reflect common toxic exposures across generations, (b) primary disease prevention follows cessation of exposure to culpable environmental triggers; and (c) disease latency provides a prolonged period during which to intervene therapeutically. Exposure to genotoxic chemicals ("slow toxins") in the early stages of life should be considered in the search for the etiology of ALS-PDC-related neurodegenerative disorders, including sporadic forms of ALS, progressive supranuclear palsy and Alzheimer's disease.
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Fiore M, Parisio R, Filippini T, Mantione V, Platania A, Odone A, Signorelli C, Pietrini V, Mandrioli J, Teggi S, Costanzini S, Antonio C, Zuccarello P, Oliveri Conti G, Nicoletti A, Zappia M, Vinceti M, Ferrante M. Living near waterbodies as a proxy of cyanobacteria exposure and risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a population based case-control study. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 186:109530. [PMID: 32335431 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiological studies highlighted the possibility that exposure to cyanotoxins leads to the development of the neurodegenerative disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). METHODS We devised a population-based case-control study in two Italian populations. We used residential proximity of the residence to water bodies as a measure of possible exposure to cyanotoxins. RESULTS Based on 703 newly-diagnosed ALS cases and 2737 controls, we calculated an ALS odds ratio (OR) of 1.41 (95% CI: 0.72-2.74) for current residence in the vicinity of water bodies, and a slightly lower estimate for historical residence (OR: 1.31; 95% CI: 0.57-2.99). Subjects <65 years and people living in the Northern Italy province of Modena had higher ORs, especially when historical residence was considered. CONCLUSIONS Overall, despite some risk of bias due to exposure misclassification and unmeasured confounding, our results appear to support the hypothesis that cyanotoxin exposure may increase ALS risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Fiore
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123; Environmental and Food Hygiene Laboratory (LIAA). Department "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123.
| | - Roberto Parisio
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123
| | - Tommaso Filippini
- CREAGEN - Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Valerio Mantione
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123
| | - Armando Platania
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123
| | - Anna Odone
- Department of Biomedical, Biotechnological, and Translational Sciences, University of Parma, 14 Via Gramsci, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Carlo Signorelli
- Department of Biomedical, Biotechnological, and Translational Sciences, University of Parma, 14 Via Gramsci, 43126, Parma, Italy; School of Medicine, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, 58 Via Olgettina Milano, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Vladimiro Pietrini
- Department of Neuroscience, Neurology Unit, University of Parma, 14 Via Gramsci, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Jessica Mandrioli
- Department of Neuroscience, S. Agostino-Estense Hospital, and University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 1355 Via Pietro Giardini, 41126, Modena, Italy
| | - Sergio Teggi
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 10 Via Vivarelli, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Sofia Costanzini
- Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari", University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 10 Via Vivarelli, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Cristaldi Antonio
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123; Environmental and Food Hygiene Laboratory (LIAA). Department "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123
| | - Pietro Zuccarello
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123; Environmental and Food Hygiene Laboratory (LIAA). Department "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123
| | - Gea Oliveri Conti
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123; Environmental and Food Hygiene Laboratory (LIAA). Department "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123.
| | - Alessandra Nicoletti
- Section of Neurosciences, Department "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Mario Zappia
- Section of Neurosciences, Department "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Vinceti
- CREAGEN - Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Margherita Ferrante
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123; Environmental and Food Hygiene Laboratory (LIAA). Department "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Via Santa Sofia, 87, 95123
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Chatziefthimiou AD, Banack SA, Cox PA. Biocrust-Produced Cyanotoxins Are Found Vertically in the Desert Soil Profile. Neurotox Res 2020; 39:42-48. [PMID: 32557323 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-020-00224-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The fate and persistence of the neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and its isomers N-(2aminoethyl)glycine (AEG) and 2,4-diaminobuytric acid (DAB) in soil profiles is poorly understood. In desert environments, these cyanotoxins are commonly found in both terrestrial and adjacent marine ecosystems; they accumulate in biocrusts and groundwater catchments, and have been previously shown to persist in soil as deep as 25 cm. To determine the depth that BMAA and its isomers can be found, samples were incrementally collected every 5 cm from bedrock to surface in triplicate soil cores in a biocrust field in the terrestrial desert of Qatar. Biocrust surface samples were also collected from each core priorly. Toxins were extracted from soil sub-samples, derivatized, and analyzed with UPLC-MS/MS. All toxins were detected in all soil cores at all depths. AEG and DAB were within a quantifiable concentration threshold; however, the low concentration of BMAA was considered below the threshold for quantification. This may have environmental health implications if these toxins are able to infiltrate and contaminate the bedrock aquifer, as well as the sand and gravel aquifers. Human and animal health may also be impacted through exposure to contaminated groundwater wells or through inhalation of aerosolized particles of soil, resuspended during construction or recreational activities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sandra Anne Banack
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Box 3464, Jackson, WY, 83001, USA.
| | - Paul Alan Cox
- Brain Chemistry Labs, Institute for Ethnomedicine, Box 3464, Jackson, WY, 83001, USA
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30
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The cyanobacterial neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) targets the olfactory bulb region. Arch Toxicol 2020; 94:2799-2808. [PMID: 32435914 PMCID: PMC7395073 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-020-02775-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Olfactory dysfunction is implicated in neurodegenerative disorders and typically manifests years before other symptoms. The cyanobacterial neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) is suggested as a risk factor for neurodegenerative disease. Detection of BMAA in air filters has increased the concern that aerosolization may lead to human BMAA exposure through the air. The aim of this study was to determine if BMAA targets the olfactory system. Autoradiographic imaging showed a distinct localization of radioactivity in the right olfactory mucosa and bulb following a unilateral intranasal instillation of 3H-BMAA (0.018 µg) in mice, demonstrating a direct transfer of BMAA via the olfactory pathways to the brain circumventing the blood–brain barrier, which was confirmed by liquid scintillation. Treatment of mouse primary olfactory bulb cells with 100 µM BMAA for 24 h caused a disruption of the neurite network, formation of dendritic varicosities and reduced cell viability. The NMDA receptor antagonist MK-801 and the metabotropic glutamate receptor antagonist MCPG protected against the BMAA-induced alterations, demonstrating the importance of glutamatergic mechanisms. The ionotropic non-NMDA receptor antagonist CNQX prevented the BMAA-induced decrease of cell viability in mixed cultures containing both neuronal and glial cells, but not in cultures with neurons only, suggesting a role of neuron–glial interactions and glial AMPA receptors in the BMAA-induced toxicity. The results show that the olfactory region may be a target for BMAA following inhalation exposure. Further studies on the relations between environmental olfactory toxicants and neurodegenerative disorders are warranted.
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31
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Transfer of the Neurotoxin β- N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) in the Agro-Aqua Cycle. Mar Drugs 2020; 18:md18050244. [PMID: 32384637 PMCID: PMC7281744 DOI: 10.3390/md18050244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurotoxic non-protein amino acid β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) is connected to the development of neurodegenerative diseases. BMAA has been shown to accumulate in aquatic ecosystems, and filter-feeding molluscs seem particularly susceptible to BMAA accumulation. The blue mussels farmed along the Swedish coastline in the Baltic Sea are, due to their small size, exclusively used to produce feed for chicken and fish in the agro-aqua cycle. We have investigated the possible biotransfer of BMAA from mussels, via mussel-based feed, into chickens. Chickens were divided into two groups, the control and the treatment. BMAA was extracted from the muscle, liver, brain, and eye tissues in both chicken groups; a UPLC-MS/MS method was subsequently used to quantify BMAA. The results indicate detectable concentrations of BMAA in both chicken groups. However, the BMAA concentration in chicken was 5.65 times higher in the treatment group than the control group, with the highest concentration found in muscle tissue extracted from the treatment group chickens. These data suggest that there is a BMAA transfer route within the agro-aqua cycle, so further investigation is recommended before using mussel-based feed in the chicken industry.
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32
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Yan B, Liu Z, Huang R, Xu Y, Liu D, Wang W, Zhao Z, Cui F, Shi W. Impact factors on the production of β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) by cyanobacteria. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 243:125355. [PMID: 31759214 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.125355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Cyanobacteria produce a series of secondary metabolites, one of which is beta-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA). BMAA is considered to be the cause of human neurodegeneration. Compared with other cyanotoxins, the role of BMAA in cyanobacteria remains unclear. To investigate this question, six strains of cyanobacteria were cultured and tested in this experiment with an optimized and validated BMAA determination method. The results show that four strains can produce BMAA. The effects of nutrient levels on the production of BMAA by Anabaena sp. FACHB-418 were studied by changing the initial concentrations of nitrate (NaNO3) and phosphate (K2HPO4) in mediums. Bound BMAA was detected in all samples and the concentrations were within 50-100 ng/g. Free BMAA was presence when the concentration of nitrogen was lower than 1.7 mg/L (121.43 μM). Free BMAA was released from the dead and ruptured cells during the cell decline period, so dissolved BMAA cannot be detectable in the adaptation and logarithmic periods, but could be abundant in the decline periods. Statistical analyses show that free BMAA concentrations were negatively correlated with nitrogen strongly (p = 2.334 × 10-10 and r = -0.842), but positively correlated with phosphorus weakly (p = 0.016 and r = 0.405). Moreover, the results of culture experiments indicated that exogenous BMAA could inhibit the growth of cyanobacteria that cannot produce BMAA, and the effect was enhanced as the concentration of exogenous BMAA increased. This phenomenon implies that the production of BMAA may be the stress response by some cyanobacteria to low nitrogen conditions to kill other cyanobacteria, i.e., their competitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boyin Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, PR China
| | - Zhiquan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, PR China; Institute of Environmental Research at Greater Bay, Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China.
| | - Rui Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, PR China
| | - Yongpeng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, PR China
| | - Dongmei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, PR China
| | - Wei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, PR China
| | - Zhiwei Zhao
- School of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, PR China
| | - Fuyi Cui
- School of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, PR China
| | - Wenxin Shi
- School of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, PR China.
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Spasic S, Stanojevic M, Nesovic Ostojic J, Kovacevic S, Todorovic J, Dincic M, Nedeljkov V, Prostran M, Lopicic S. Two distinct electrophysiological mechanisms underlie extensive depolarization elicited by 2,4 diaminobutyric acid in leech Retzius neurons. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2020; 220:105398. [PMID: 31891816 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2019.105398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies suggest that 2,4-DABA, a neurotoxic excitatory amino acid present in virtually all environments, but predominantly in aquatic ecosystems may be a risk factor for development of neurodegenerative diseases in animals and humans. Despite its neurotoxicity and potential environmental importance, mechanisms underlying the excitatory and putative excitotoxic action of 2,4-DABA in neurons are still unexplored. We previously reported on extensive two-stage membrane depolarization and functional disturbances in leech Retzius neurons induced by 2,4-DABA. Current study presents the first detailed look into the electrophysiological processes leading to this depolarization. Intracellular recordings were performed on Retzius neurons of the leech Haemopis sanguisuga using glass microelectrodes and input membrane resistance (IMR) was measured by injecting hyperpolarizing current pulses through these electrodes. Results show that the excitatory effect 2,4-DABA elicits on neurons' membrane potential is dependent on sodium ions. Depolarizing effect of 5·10-3 mol/L 2,4-DABA in sodium-free solution was significantly diminished by 91% reducing it to 3.26 ± 0.62 mV and its two-stage nature was abrogated. In addition to being sodium-dependent, the depolarization of membrane potential induced by this amino acid is coupled with an increase of membrane permeability, as 2,4-DABA decreases IMR by 8.27 ± 1.47 MΩ (67.60%). Since present results highlight the role of sodium ions, we investigated the role of two putative sodium-dependent mechanisms in 2,4-DABA-induced excitatory effect - activation of ionotropic glutamate receptors and the electrogenic transporter for neutral amino acids. Excitatory effect of 5·10-3 mol/L 2,4-DABA was partially blocked by 10-5 mol/L 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione (CNQX) a non-NMDA receptor antagonist as the first stage of membrane depolarization was significantly reduced by 2.59 ± 0.98 mV (40%), whilst second stage remained unaltered. Moreover, involvement of the sodium-dependent transport system for neutral amino acids was investigated by equimolar co-application of 5·10-3 mol/L 2,4-DABA and L-alanine, a competitive inhibitor of this transporter. Although L-alanine exhibited no effect on the first stage of membrane depolarization elicited by 2,4-DABA, it substantially reduced the second stage (the overall membrane depolarization) from 39.63 ± 2.22 mV to 16.28 ± 2.58 mV, by 58.92%. We therefore propose that the electrophysiological effect of 2,4-DABA on Retzius neurons is mediated by two distinct mechanisms, i.e. by activation of ionotropic glutamate receptor that initiates the first stage of membrane depolarization followed by the stimulation of an electrogenic sodium-dependent neutral amino acid transporter, leading to additional influx of positive charge into the cell and the second stage of depolarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetolik Spasic
- Institute for Pathological Physiology "Ljubodrag Buba Mihailovic", Faculty of Medicine University of Belgrade, Dr Subotica 1/II, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Marija Stanojevic
- Institute for Pathological Physiology "Ljubodrag Buba Mihailovic", Faculty of Medicine University of Belgrade, Dr Subotica 1/II, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jelena Nesovic Ostojic
- Institute for Pathological Physiology "Ljubodrag Buba Mihailovic", Faculty of Medicine University of Belgrade, Dr Subotica 1/II, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Sanjin Kovacevic
- Institute for Pathological Physiology "Ljubodrag Buba Mihailovic", Faculty of Medicine University of Belgrade, Dr Subotica 1/II, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jasna Todorovic
- Institute for Pathological Physiology "Ljubodrag Buba Mihailovic", Faculty of Medicine University of Belgrade, Dr Subotica 1/II, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marko Dincic
- Institute for Pathological Physiology "Ljubodrag Buba Mihailovic", Faculty of Medicine University of Belgrade, Dr Subotica 1/II, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Vladimir Nedeljkov
- Institute for Pathological Physiology "Ljubodrag Buba Mihailovic", Faculty of Medicine University of Belgrade, Dr Subotica 1/II, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milica Prostran
- Institute for Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine University of Belgrade, Dr Subotica 1/III, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Srdjan Lopicic
- Institute for Pathological Physiology "Ljubodrag Buba Mihailovic", Faculty of Medicine University of Belgrade, Dr Subotica 1/II, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
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Yan B, Liu Z, Liu Y, Huang R, Xu Y, Liu D, Cui F, Shi W. Effects and mechanism on the removal of neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) by chlorination. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 703:135513. [PMID: 31761374 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
β-N-Methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA), a new cyanobacterial toxin, is found in different aquatic ecosystems worldwide and is to threaten the human nervous system. Therefore, it is important for water plants to develop feasible methods to counter the effects of BMAA. In this study, the removal of BMAA by chlorine, as well as its intermediate products, at different pH values and the mechanism of pH on the removal BMAA were investigated. The results showed that the chlorination of BMAA is in accordance with the second-order kinetics model. The reaction rate of chlorinated BMAA increased with the increase in the concentration of chlorine. The pH of the solution significantly affected the reaction rate. The apparent kinetic constant (kapp) decreased from 6.00 × 103 M-1·min-1 to 35.5 M-1·min-1 when the pH increased from 4.5 to 9 in the chlorine concentration of 32.23 μM. It is probable that the species distribution and proportion of BMAA and chlorine at different pH values were the main causes of this phenomenon. Additionally, the chlorination reaction consisted of four elementary reactions and hydrogen ions were beneficial to the reaction. The temperature also affected the reaction rate and the activation energy of the reaction was 16.6 ± 1.99 kJ·M-1. A variety of degradation products were detected and the path of degradation was speculated. Chlorination, dechlorination, and decarboxylation were the main processes of oxidative degradation. Furthermore, the composition of the degradation products was the same at different pH values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boyin Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Zhiquan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China; Institute of Environmental Research at Greater Bay, Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
| | - Ying Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Rui Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Yongpeng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Dongmei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Fuyi Cui
- School of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China
| | - Wenxin Shi
- School of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, PR China.
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Bishop SL, Murch SJ. A systematic review of analytical methods for the detection and quantification of β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA). Analyst 2019; 145:13-28. [PMID: 31742261 DOI: 10.1039/c9an01252d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are influenced by environmental factors such as exposure to toxins including the cyanotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) that can bioaccumulate in common food sources such as fish, mussels and crabs. Accurate and precise analytical methods are needed to detect and quantify BMAA to minimize human health risks. The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the methods used for BMAA analysis from 2003 to 2019 and to evaluate the reported performance characteristics for each method to determine the consensus data for each analytical approach and different sample matrices. Detailed searches of the database Web of Science™ (WoS) were performed between August 21st, 2018 and April 5th, 2019. Eligible studies included analytical methods for the detection and quantification of BMAA in cyanobacteria and bioaccumulated BMAA in higher trophic levels, in phytoplankton and zooplankton and in human tissues and fluids. This systematic review has limitations in that only the English language literature is included and it did not include standard operating protocols nor any method validation data that have not been made public. We identified 148 eligible studies, of which a positive result for BMAA in one or more samples analyzed was reported in 84% (125 out of 148) of total studies, 57% of HILIC studies, 92% of RPLC studies and 71% of other studies. The largest discrepancy between different methods arose from the analysis of cyanobacteria samples, where BMAA was detected in 95% of RPLC studies but only in 25% of HILIC studies. Without sufficient published validation of each method's performance characteristics, it is difficult to establish each method as fit for purpose for each sample matrix. The importance of establishing methods as appropriate for their intended use is evidenced by the inconsistent reporting of BMAA across environmental samples, despite its prevalence in diverse ecosystems and food webs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Bishop
- Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, British Columbia, CanadaV1V 1V7.
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Spencer P, Lagrange E, Camu W. ALS and environment: Clues from spatial clustering? Rev Neurol (Paris) 2019; 175:652-663. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2019.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Production of β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and Its Isomers by Freshwater Diatoms. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11090512. [PMID: 31480725 PMCID: PMC6784237 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11090512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) is a non-protein amino acid that has been implicated as a risk factor for motor neurone disease (MND). BMAA is produced by a wide range of cyanobacteria globally and by a small number of marine diatoms. BMAA is commonly found with two of its constitutional isomers: 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (2,4-DAB), and N-(2-aminoethyl)glycine (AEG). The isomer 2,4-DAB, like BMAA, has neurotoxic properties. While many studies have shown BMAA production by cyanobacteria, few studies have looked at other algal groups. Several studies have shown BMAA production by marine diatoms; however, there are no studies examining freshwater diatoms. This study aimed to determine if some freshwater diatoms produced BMAA, and which diatom taxa are capable of BMAA, 2,4-DAB and AEG production. Five axenic diatom cultures were established from river and lake sites across eastern Australia. Cultures were harvested during the stationary growth phase and intracellular amino acids were extracted. Using liquid chromatography triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), diatom extracts were analysed for the presence of both free and protein-associated BMAA, 2,4-DAB and AEG. Of the five diatom cultures analysed, four were found to have detectable BMAA and AEG, while 2,4-DAB was found in all cultures. These results show that BMAA production by diatoms is not confined to marine genera and that the prevalence of these non-protein amino acids in Australian freshwater environments cannot be solely attributed to cyanobacteria.
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Violi JP, Mitrovic SM, Colville A, Main BJ, Rodgers KJ. Prevalence of β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and its isomers in freshwater cyanobacteria isolated from eastern Australia. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2019; 172:72-81. [PMID: 30682636 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2019.01.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Environmental exposure to the amino acid β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) was linked to the high incidence of neurodegenerative disease first reported on the island of Guam in the 1940s and has more recently been implicated in an increased incidence of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in parts of the USA. BMAA has been shown to be produced by a range of cyanobacteria and some marine diatoms and dinoflagellates in different parts of the world. BMAA is commonly found with two of its constitutional isomers: 2,4- diaminobutyric acid (2,4-DAB) and N-(2-aminoethyl) glycine (AEG). These isomers are thought to be co-produced by the same organisms that produce BMAA and MS/MS analysis following LC separation can add an additional level of specificity over LC-FL. Although the presence of BMAA and 2,4-DAB in surface scum samples from several sites in Australia has been reported, which Australian cyanobacterial species are capable of BMAA, 2,4-DAB and AEG production remains unknown. The aims of the present studies were to identify some of the cyanobacterial genera or species that can produce BMAA, 2,4-DAB and AEG in freshwater cyanobacteria blooms in eastern Australia. Eleven freshwater sites were sampled and from these, 19 single-species cyanobacterial cultures were established. Amino acids were extracted from cyanobacterial cultures and analysed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. BMAA was detected in 17 of the 19 isolates, 2,4-DAB was detected in all isolates, and AEG was detected in 18 of the 19 isolates, showing the prevalence of these amino acids in Australian freshwater cyanobacteria. Concentrations of all three isomers in Australian cyanobacteria were generally higher than the concentrations reported elsewhere. This study confirmed the presence of BMAA and its isomers in cyanobacteria isolated from eastern Australian freshwater systems, and determined which Australian cyanobacterial genera or species were capable of producing them when cultured under laboratory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake P Violi
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Simon M Mitrovic
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Anne Colville
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Brendan J Main
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Kenneth J Rodgers
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia.
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Manolidi K, Triantis TM, Kaloudis T, Hiskia A. Neurotoxin BMAA and its isomeric amino acids in cyanobacteria and cyanobacteria-based food supplements. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2019; 365:346-365. [PMID: 30448548 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2018.10.084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Revised: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 10/27/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Cyanobacteria are photosynthetic microorganisms distributed globally in aquatic and terrestrial environments. They are also industrially cultivated to be used as dietary supplements, as they have a high nutritional value; however, they are also known to produce a wide range of toxic secondary metabolites, called cyanotoxins. BMAA (β-methylamino-l-alanine) and its most common structural isomers, DAB (2,4-diaminobutyric acid) and AEG (N-2-aminoethylglycine) produced by cyanobacteria, are non-proteinogenic amino acids that have been associated with neurodegenerative diseases. A possible route of exposure to those amino acids is through consumption of food supplements based on cyanobacteria. The review critically discusses existing reports regarding the occurrence of BMAA, DAB and AEG in cyanobacteria and cyanobacteria-based food supplements. It is shown that inconsistencies in reported results could be attributed to performance of different methods of extraction and analysis applied and in ambiguities regarding determination of soluble and bound fractions of the compounds. The critical aspect of this review aims to grow awareness of human intake of neurotoxic amino acids, while results presented in literature concerning dietary supplements aim to promote further research, quality control as well as development of guidelines for cyanotoxins in food products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Korina Manolidi
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, National Center for Scientific Research "DEMOKRITOS", Patriarchou Grigoriou E' & Neapoleos 27, 15341, Athens, Greece; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Faculty of Chemistry, 15784, Panepistimiopolis, Athens, Greece.
| | - Theodoros M Triantis
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, National Center for Scientific Research "DEMOKRITOS", Patriarchou Grigoriou E' & Neapoleos 27, 15341, Athens, Greece.
| | - Triantafyllos Kaloudis
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, National Center for Scientific Research "DEMOKRITOS", Patriarchou Grigoriou E' & Neapoleos 27, 15341, Athens, Greece; Water Quality Control Department, Athens Water Supply and Sewerage Company - EYDAP SA, Athens, Greece.
| | - Anastasia Hiskia
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, National Center for Scientific Research "DEMOKRITOS", Patriarchou Grigoriou E' & Neapoleos 27, 15341, Athens, Greece.
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Gerić M, Gajski G, Domijan AM, Garaj-Vrhovac V, Filipič M, Žegura B. Genotoxic effects of neurotoxin ß-N-methylamino-l-alanine in human peripheral blood cells. CHEMOSPHERE 2019; 214:623-632. [PMID: 30290362 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.09.155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The non-proteinogenic amino acid ß-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) is associated with the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/parkinsonism-dementia complex (ALS-PDC) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. BMAA is known to induce neurotoxic effects leading to neurodegeneration via multiple mechanisms including misfolded protein accumulation, glutamate induced excitotoxicity, calcium dyshomeostasis, endoplasmic reticulum stress and oxidative stress. In the present study, for the first time, genotoxic activity of BMAA (2.5, 5, 10 and 20 μg/mL) was studied in human peripheral blood cells (HPBCs) using the comet and cytokinesis-block micronucleus cytome assays. In addition, the influence of BMAA on the oxidative stress was assessed. At non-cytotoxic concentrations BMAA did not induce formation of DNA strand breaks in HPBCs after 4 and 24 h exposure; however, it significantly increased the number of micronuclei after 24 and 48 h at 20 μg/mL and nucleoplasmic bridges after 48 h at 20 μg/mL. The frequency of nuclear buds was slightly though non-significantly increased after 48 h. Altogether, this indicates that in HPBCs BMAA is clastogenic and induces complex genomic alterations including structural chromosomal rearrangements and gene amplification. No influence on oxidative stress markers was noticed. These findings provide new evidence that environmental neurotoxin BMAA, in addition to targeting common pathways involved in neurodegeneration, can also induce genomic instability in non-target HPBCs suggesting that it might be involved in cancer development. Therefore, these data are important in advancing our current knowledge and opening new questions in the understanding of the mechanisms of BMAA toxicity, particularly in the context of genotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marko Gerić
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Goran Gajski
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Ana-Marija Domijan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Vera Garaj-Vrhovac
- Mutagenesis Unit, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Metka Filipič
- Department for Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, National Institute of Biology, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Bojana Žegura
- Department for Genetic Toxicology and Cancer Biology, National Institute of Biology, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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41
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β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) suppresses cell cycle progression of non-neuronal cells. Sci Rep 2018; 8:17995. [PMID: 30573743 PMCID: PMC6301973 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-36418-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA), a natural non-proteinaceous amino acid, is a neurotoxin produced by a wide range of cyanobacteria living in various environments. BMAA is a candidate environmental risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Parkinson-dementia complex. Although BMAA is known to exhibit weak neuronal excitotoxicity via glutamate receptors, the underlying mechanism of toxicity has yet to be fully elucidated. To examine the glutamate receptor-independent toxicity of BMAA, we investigated the effects of BMAA in non-neuronal cell lines. BMAA potently suppressed the cell cycle progression of NIH3T3 cells at the G1/S checkpoint without inducing plasma membrane damage, apoptosis, or overproduction of reactive oxygen species, which were previously reported for neurons and neuroblastoma cells treated with BMAA. We found no evidence that activation of glutamate receptors was involved in the suppression of the G1/S transition by BMAA. Our results indicate that BMAA affects cellular functions, such as the division of non-neuronal cells, through glutamate receptor-independent mechanisms.
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Facciponte DN, Bough MW, Seidler D, Carroll JL, Ashare A, Andrew AS, Tsongalis GJ, Vaickus LJ, Henegan PL, Butt TH, Stommel EW. Identifying aerosolized cyanobacteria in the human respiratory tract: A proposed mechanism for cyanotoxin-associated diseases. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 645:1003-1013. [PMID: 30248825 PMCID: PMC6159226 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.07.226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Cyanobacteria produce harmful toxins that have been associated with several acute conditions and chronic human diseases, like gastroenteritis, non-alcoholic liver disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Aerosol from waterbodies appears to be a likely mechanism for exposure. We conducted a study of human biospecimens focused on the cyanobacterial aerosilization process by evaluating the extent to which cyanobacteria can invade the human respiratory tract. Our study suggests that humans routinely inhale aerosolized cyanobacteria, which can be harbored in the nostrils and the lungs. Using PCR, cyanobacteria were found at high frequencies in the upper respiratory tract (92.20%) and central airway (79.31%) of our study subjects. Nasal swabs were not predictive of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) when detecting inhaled cyanobacteria. Interestingly, we found no evidence that time of year was a significant factor for cyanobacteria positivity (BAL cytology p = 1.0 and PCR p = 1.0); (nasal swab cytology p = 0.051 and PCR p = 0.65). Additionally, we found that proximity to a waterbody was not a significant factor for cyanobacteria positivity in BAL and nasal swabs collected during cyanobacteria bloom season [May-October] (p = 0.46 and p = 0.38). These data suggest that cyanobacteria exposure may be a prevalent and chronic phenomenon not necessarily restricted to waterbodies alone. Sources of indoor exposure warrant future investigation. Given the widespread prevalence of cyanobacterial exposure in the airway, investigation of the aerosol spread of cyanotoxins, more specifically, is warranted. Our findings are consistent with the hypothesis that aerosol is a significant route for cyanobacteria exposure, and thus a likely route of transmission for cyanotoxin-associated human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic N Facciponte
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Neurology, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
| | - Matthew W Bough
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Neurology, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Darius Seidler
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Rope Ferry Rd., Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - James L Carroll
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Rope Ferry Rd., Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Alix Ashare
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Rope Ferry Rd., Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Angeline S Andrew
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Neurology, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Rope Ferry Rd., Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Gregory J Tsongalis
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Rope Ferry Rd., Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Louis J Vaickus
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Rope Ferry Rd., Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Patricia L Henegan
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Neurology, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Tanya H Butt
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Neurology, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Elijah W Stommel
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Neurology, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, One Rope Ferry Rd., Hanover, NH 03755, USA.
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Reid AJ, Carlson AK, Creed IF, Eliason EJ, Gell PA, Johnson PTJ, Kidd KA, MacCormack TJ, Olden JD, Ormerod SJ, Smol JP, Taylor WW, Tockner K, Vermaire JC, Dudgeon D, Cooke SJ. Emerging threats and persistent conservation challenges for freshwater biodiversity. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2018; 94:849-873. [PMID: 30467930 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 746] [Impact Index Per Article: 124.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Revised: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In the 12 years since Dudgeon et al. (2006) reviewed major pressures on freshwater ecosystems, the biodiversity crisis in the world's lakes, reservoirs, rivers, streams and wetlands has deepened. While lakes, reservoirs and rivers cover only 2.3% of the Earth's surface, these ecosystems host at least 9.5% of the Earth's described animal species. Furthermore, using the World Wide Fund for Nature's Living Planet Index, freshwater population declines (83% between 1970 and 2014) continue to outpace contemporaneous declines in marine or terrestrial systems. The Anthropocene has brought multiple new and varied threats that disproportionately impact freshwater systems. We document 12 emerging threats to freshwater biodiversity that are either entirely new since 2006 or have since intensified: (i) changing climates; (ii) e-commerce and invasions; (iii) infectious diseases; (iv) harmful algal blooms; (v) expanding hydropower; (vi) emerging contaminants; (vii) engineered nanomaterials; (viii) microplastic pollution; (ix) light and noise; (x) freshwater salinisation; (xi) declining calcium; and (xii) cumulative stressors. Effects are evidenced for amphibians, fishes, invertebrates, microbes, plants, turtles and waterbirds, with potential for ecosystem-level changes through bottom-up and top-down processes. In our highly uncertain future, the net effects of these threats raise serious concerns for freshwater ecosystems. However, we also highlight opportunities for conservation gains as a result of novel management tools (e.g. environmental flows, environmental DNA) and specific conservation-oriented actions (e.g. dam removal, habitat protection policies, managed relocation of species) that have been met with varying levels of success. Moving forward, we advocate hybrid approaches that manage fresh waters as crucial ecosystems for human life support as well as essential hotspots of biodiversity and ecological function. Efforts to reverse global trends in freshwater degradation now depend on bridging an immense gap between the aspirations of conservation biologists and the accelerating rate of species endangerment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea J Reid
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Andrew K Carlson
- Center for Systems Integration and Sustainability, Department of Fisheries and Wildlife and Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, and Behavior, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, U.S.A
| | - Irena F Creed
- School of Environment and Sustainability, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, S7N 5C8, Canada
| | - Erika J Eliason
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93117, U.S.A
| | - Peter A Gell
- School of Life and Health Sciences, University Drive, Federation University Australia, Mount Helen, 3350, Australia
| | - Pieter T J Johnson
- Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, U.S.A
| | - Karen A Kidd
- Department of Biology and School of Geography and Earth Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Tyson J MacCormack
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mount Allison University, Sackville, E4L 1G8, Canada
| | - Julian D Olden
- School of Aquatic and Fishery Science, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-5020, U.S.A
| | - Steve J Ormerod
- Water Research Institute & School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, U.K
| | - John P Smol
- Paleoecological Environmental Assessment and Research Lab (PEARL), Department of Biology, Queen's University, Kingston, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - William W Taylor
- Center for Systems Integration and Sustainability, Department of Fisheries and Wildlife and Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, and Behavior, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, U.S.A
| | - Klement Tockner
- Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB), Berlin, 12587, Germany
| | - Jesse C Vermaire
- Institute of Environmental Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - David Dudgeon
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Steven J Cooke
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, K1S 5B6, Canada.,Institute of Environmental Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, K1S 5B6, Canada
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Ubiquity of the neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine and its isomers confirmed by two different mass spectrometric methods in diverse marine mollusks. Toxicon 2018; 151:129-136. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Revised: 05/24/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Pierce ES. How did Lou Gehrig get Lou Gehrig's disease? Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis in manure, soil, dirt, dust and grass and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (motor neurone disease) clusters in football, rugby and soccer players. Med Hypotheses 2018; 119:1-5. [PMID: 30122477 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2018.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
There are several suspected infectious causes of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or motor neurone disease including HIV-1 and species of Brucella, Cyanobacteria and Schistosoma. The increased rates and clusters of ALS in amateur and professional outdoor sports players including rugby, football and soccer players suggest a microorganism present in the grass, dirt and dust they play on and in may be a causative factor. The probable zoonosis Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) is heavily excreted in an infected domestic ruminant's feces or manure and is extensively distributed throughout the soil in countries where MAP infection of domestic livestock is longstanding. Like other zoonotic pathogens, MAP can be transmitted to humans by inhalation of aerosolized pathogen-contaminated soil, by direct contact of pathogen-contaminated grass, dirt and dust with mucus membranes lining the nose or mouth or through abrasions and cuts in the skin. Outdoor sports players may develop ALS after multiple oral, nasal or subcutaneous doses of MAP present in the dirt, dust and grass of their playing fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen S Pierce
- 13212 East Blossey Avenue, Spokane Valley, Washington 99216-2807, USA.
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46
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Spasic S, Stanojevic M, Nesovic Ostojic J, Kovacevic S, Prostran M, Lopicic S. Extensive depolarization and lack of recovery of leech Retzius neurons caused by 2,4 diaminobutyric acid. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2018; 199:269-275. [PMID: 29679946 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2018.03.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Revised: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 03/30/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
In this paper we present, for the first time, a detailed account of electrophysiological effects of 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (2,4-DABA). 2,4-DABA is a neurotoxic non-protein amino acid produced by Cyanobacteria with a possible link to neurodegenerative disorders in animals and humans. Intracellular recordings were performed on Retzius nerve cells of the leech Haemopis sanguisuga using glass microelectrodes filled with 3 mol/L KCl. Our results show that 2,4-DABA is an excitatory amino acid, causing membrane depolarization in a concentration-dependent manner. The most prominent depolarizations of 39.63±2.22 mV and 47.05±4.33 mV, induced by 5×10-3 and 10-2 mol/L 2,4-DABA respectively, are several times larger than maximal depolarizations induced by either Glutamate, Aspartate, β-N-methylamino-alanine (BMAA) or β-N-oxalylamino-alanine (BOAA) on our model. These 2,4-DABA induced depolarizations evolve through two distinct stages, which is a novel phenomenon in electrical cell activity upon application of an excitatory amino acid, at least on our model. Involvement of two separate mechanisms, suggested by the two stage phenomenon, is discussed in the paper. We also provide evidence that 2,4-DABA induces irreversible functional disturbances in neurons in a concentration-dependent manner, since only half of the cells recovered normal electrical activity after application of 5×10-3 mol/L 2,4-DABA, and none recovered after application of 10-2 mol/L 2,4-DABA. Effects of both L-2,4-DABA and DL-2,4-DABA were tested and are not significantly different.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Spasic
- Institute for Pathological Physiology "Ljubodrag Buba Mihailovic", Medical Faculty University of Belgrade, Dr Subotica 1/II, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - M Stanojevic
- Institute for Pathological Physiology "Ljubodrag Buba Mihailovic", Medical Faculty University of Belgrade, Dr Subotica 1/II, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - J Nesovic Ostojic
- Institute for Pathological Physiology "Ljubodrag Buba Mihailovic", Medical Faculty University of Belgrade, Dr Subotica 1/II, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - S Kovacevic
- Institute for Pathological Physiology "Ljubodrag Buba Mihailovic", Medical Faculty University of Belgrade, Dr Subotica 1/II, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - M Prostran
- Institute for Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty University of Belgrade, Dr Subotica 1/III, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - S Lopicic
- Institute for Pathological Physiology "Ljubodrag Buba Mihailovic", Medical Faculty University of Belgrade, Dr Subotica 1/II, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia.
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Main BJ, Bowling LC, Padula MP, Bishop DP, Mitrovic SM, Guillemin GJ, Rodgers KJ. Detection of the suspected neurotoxin β-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) in cyanobacterial blooms from multiple water bodies in Eastern Australia. HARMFUL ALGAE 2018; 74:10-18. [PMID: 29724339 DOI: 10.1016/j.hal.2018.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Revised: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The emerging toxin β-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) has been linked to the development of a number of neurodegenerative diseases in humans including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. BMAA has been found to be produced by a range of cyanobacteria, diatoms, and dinoflagellates worldwide, and is present in freshwater, saltwater, and terrestrial ecosystems. Surface scum samples were collected from waterways in rural and urban New South Wales, Australia and algal species identified. Reverse phase liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was used to analyse sixteen cyanobacterial scum for the presence of BMAA as well as its toxic structural isomer 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (2,4-DAB). BMAA was detected in ten of the samples analysed, and 2,4-DAB in all sixteen. The presence of these toxins in water used for agriculture raises concerns for public health and food security in Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan J Main
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Lee C Bowling
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia; DPI Water, NSW Department of Primary Industries, Menangle, NSW, 2568, Australia
| | - Matthew P Padula
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - David P Bishop
- Elemental Bio-imaging Facility, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Simon M Mitrovic
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Gilles J Guillemin
- MND Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Kenneth J Rodgers
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia.
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48
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Occurrence of β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) and Isomers in Aquatic Environments and Aquatic Food Sources for Humans. Toxins (Basel) 2018; 10:toxins10020083. [PMID: 29443939 PMCID: PMC5848184 DOI: 10.3390/toxins10020083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Revised: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA), a non-protein amino acid produced by terrestrial and aquatic cyanobacteria and by micro-algae, has been suggested to play a role as an environmental factor in the neurodegenerative disease Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis-Parkinsonism-Dementia complex (ALS-PDC). The ubiquitous presence of BMAA in aquatic environments and organisms along the food chain potentially makes it public health concerns. However, the BMAA-associated human health risk remains difficult to rigorously assess due to analytical challenges associated with the detection and quantification of BMAA and its natural isomers, 2,4-diamino butyric acid (DAB), β-amino-N-methyl-alanine (BAMA) and N-(2-aminoethyl) glycine (AEG). This systematic review, reporting the current knowledge on the presence of BMAA and isomers in aquatic environments and human food sources, was based on a selection and a score numbering of the scientific literature according to various qualitative and quantitative criteria concerning the chemical analytical methods used. Results from the best-graded studies show that marine bivalves are to date the matrix containing the higher amount of BMAA, far more than most fish muscles, but with an exception for shark cartilage. This review discusses the available data in terms of their use for human health risk assessment and identifies knowledge gaps requiring further investigations.
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Andersson M, Karlsson O, Brandt I. The environmental neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (l-BMAA) is deposited into birds' eggs. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2018; 147:720-724. [PMID: 28942274 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2017.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The neurotoxic amino acid β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) has been implicated in the etiology of neurodegenerative disorders. BMAA is also a known developmental neurotoxin and research indicates that the sources of human and wildlife exposure may be more diverse than previously anticipated. The aim of the present study was therefore to examine whether BMAA can be transferred into birds' eggs. Egg laying quail were dosed with 14C-labeled BMAA. The distribution of radioactivity in the birds and their laid eggs was then examined at different time points by autoradiography and phosphoimaging analysis. To evaluate the metabolic stability of the BMAA molecule, the distribution of 14C-methyl- and 14C-carboxyl-labeled BMAA were compared. The results revealed a pronounced incorporation of radioactivity in the eggs, predominantly in the yolk but also in the albumen. Imaging analysis showed that the concentrations of radioactivity in the liver decreased about seven times between the 24h and the 72h time points, while the concentrations in egg yolk remained largely unchanged. At 72h the egg yolk contained about five times the concentration of radioactivity in the liver. Both BMAA preparations gave rise to similar distribution pattern in the bird tissues and in the eggs, indicating metabolic stability of the labeled groups. The demonstrated deposition into eggs warrants studies of BMAAs effects on bird development. Moreover, birds' eggs may be a source of human BMAA exposure, provided that the laying birds are exposed to BMAA via their diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Andersson
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, SE-752 36 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Oskar Karlsson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, SE-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Center for Molecular Medicine, SE-17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ingvar Brandt
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, Uppsala University, SE-752 36 Uppsala, Sweden.
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50
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Downing S, Scott LL, Zguna N, Downing TG. Human Scalp Hair as an Indicator of Exposure to the Environmental Toxin β-N-Methylamino-l-alanine. Toxins (Basel) 2017; 10:E14. [PMID: 29280954 PMCID: PMC5793101 DOI: 10.3390/toxins10010014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Revised: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dietary or aerosol exposure to the environmental neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) is a putative risk factor for the development of sporadic neurodegenerative disease. There are many potential sources of BMAA in the environment, but BMAA presence and quantities are highly variable. It has been suggested that BMAA in human hair may serve as an indicator of exposure. We sought to evaluate the use of the BMAA content of human scalp hair as an indicator of exposure, as well as the correlation between specific lifestyle or dietary habits, reported as hypothesised exposure risk factors, and BMAA in hair. Scalp hair samples and questionnaires were collected from participants in a small residential village surrounding a freshwater impoundment renowned for toxic cyanobacterial blooms. Data suggested a positive correlation between hair BMAA content and consumption of shellfish, and possibly pork. No statistically significant correlations were observed between hair BMAA content and residential proximity to the water or any other variable. Hair BMAA content was highly variable, and in terms of exposure, probably reflects primarily dietary exposure. However, the BMAA content of human hair may be affected to a great extent by several other factors, and as such, should be used with caution when evaluating human BMAA exposure, or correlating exposure to neurodegenerative disease incidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simoné Downing
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Nelson Mandela University, P.O. Box 77 000, Port Elizabeth 6031, South Africa.
| | - Laura Louise Scott
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Nelson Mandela University, P.O. Box 77 000, Port Elizabeth 6031, South Africa.
| | - Nadezda Zguna
- Unit for Analytical Chemistry, Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry, Stockholm University, SE 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Timothy Grant Downing
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Nelson Mandela University, P.O. Box 77 000, Port Elizabeth 6031, South Africa.
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